KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their distinct features and qualities. The Mannan Pipefish is praised for its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a comfortable and precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, providing exceptional smoothness in operation. While the Mannan Pipefish is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Master is classified as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Master switches offer distinct characteristics that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both use different materials for their top housing, with the Mannan Pipefish featuring polycarbonate and the Master utilizing POM, they both provide unique sound profiles. Polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, ideal for clear and resonant tones, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, POM top housing of the Dareu Master produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different auditory experience for users.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the Mannan Pipefish and Dareu Master switches are both designed to influence the sound profile in a similar way. The Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder tone. Likewise, the POM bottom housing of the Dareu Master contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, enhancing the overall sound experience of the switch. Despite using different materials for their bottom housing, both switches aim to provide a distinct sound profile that complements their overall design.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note how the differences in top and bottom housing affect the sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in switches like the Mannan Pipefish and Dareu Master plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for users, offering a balance between sound profile, tactile feedback, and aesthetics.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch reveals some key differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the Master, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams of force, while this information is unavailable for the Master switch. The lighter actuation force of the Mannan Pipefish may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, while the heavier actuation force of the Master may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a stronger push sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, the Mannan Pipefish has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Master's 3.4 mm. This means that the Mannan Pipefish will require slightly more force to press down on the key due to the greater distance it needs to travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master will offer a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Master switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Mannan Pipefish. Both switches offer a good balance between traditional and shallow travel distances, catering to different preferences in key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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, the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes, while the Dareu Master provides a classic clacky sound signature that is sharp and snappy. Both switches will produce different auditory experiences, with the Mannan Pipefish being more versatile and the Master offering a more distinct and percussive sound. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mannan Pipefish is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and providing a comfortable typing experience. Additionally, it boasts a polished finish for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild typing experience that falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Like the Mannan Pipefish, the Master switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and refined key movement. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness, but the Mannan Pipefish may appeal more to those seeking a lighter touch, while the Dareu Master caters to a broader audience with its mild characteristics.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish and Dareu Master linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish excels in providing a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists looking for a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Dareu Master stands out for its clacky sound signature and mild typing feel, offering a classic and approachable option for a wide range of users. Ultimately, both switches provide smooth operation and a polished finish for an enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and comfort regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a light actuation force and a smooth linear typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better choice for effortless and strain-free typing sessions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature, the Dareu Master switch could provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and precise typing feel or a medium weight switch with a distinctive sound profile. Select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an enjoyable and customized keyboarding experience.
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