KTT Mallo vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the KTT Mallo and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mallo and the KTT Mannan Pipefish stand out as popular options with their own unique characteristics. The Mallo is praised for its subtle tactility and medium-light typing feel, striking a balance that appeals to a wide range of typists. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers a smooth linear action with a light 45g actuation force, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience for those who prefer effortless keystrokes. While the Mallo is more versatile in different typing environments, the Mannan Pipefish caters to casual typists seeking a strain-free typing journey. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mallo and KTT Mannan Pipefish both use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency adds a unique visual element to the top housing of these switches. However, both switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Mallo using nylon and the Mannan Pipefish also utilizing nylon.
Nylon, which is used in the bottom housing of both the KTT Mallo and KTT Mannan Pipefish, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This material choice impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in these aspects. The presence of nylon in the bottom housing reinforces the switch's sound characteristics, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both the Mallo and the Mannan Pipefish.
While both switches share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, the distribution of these materials within the switch affects the overall typing experience. The qualities of the top housing, mainly impacting the sound when releasing a key, contrast with the sound and feel influenced by the bottom housing when pressing down on the switch. Despite these differences, both the KTT Mallo and KTT Mannan Pipefish showcase the significance of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles and typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are clear differences in weight. The Mallo has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of force needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 55 grams, which is medium-light. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams, slightly heavier than the Mallo, and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is considered light. This means that the Mannan Pipefish requires a bit more force to trigger a keypress, but less force to bottom out compared to the Mallo. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch might opt for the Mallo. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance of travel from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and response. Additionally, the equal travel distance of 4 mm for both switches indicates that neither one is shorter or longer than the other, making them comparable in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Mallo has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mallo for $4.40.
The KTT Mannan Pipefish has an MSRP of $3.53 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mannan Pipefish for $3.05.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Mallo and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various settings without being too distracting. The Mallo is further noted to have a subdued sound, offering a more subtle auditory experience compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish's sound is not specifically highlighted beyond its neutral classification, but it is safe to assume that it also falls within the moderate sound profile range. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, you can expect a pleasant typing sound from either switch.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mallo is known for its feathery and subtle typing experience, offering light actuation force and gentle resistance to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Users can expect a comfortable and approachable typing feel with the Mallo. On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish provides an easy-to-press and polished typing experience due to its smooth linear action and light actuation force, enhancing typing precision and comfort. Both switches aim to provide a strain-free and enjoyable typing journey for users, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and responsiveness.
Overall, the KTT Mallo and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches offer distinct but equally favorable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mallo focuses on subtlety and finesse with its gentle tactility and medium-light typing feel, the Mannan Pipefish emphasizes effortless typing with its smooth linear action and light actuation force. Depending on your preference for tactile feedback and typing experience, both switches provide a versatile and enjoyable typing journey for newcomers and experienced typists alike. Whether you choose the Mallo for its feathery touch or the Mannan Pipefish for its polished action, you can expect a satisfying keyboarding experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mallo tactile switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, keep in mind that the Mallo offers a medium-light typing feel with subtle tactility and a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile choice for various environments. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish provides a light and precise typing experience with effortless key presses and a smooth, polished finish. If you prefer a switch with a bit more feedback and balance, opt for the Mallo. However, if you seek a switch that offers a smooth and strain-free typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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