KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Durock Medium Tactile
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Medium Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself deciding between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Medium Tactile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch, known for its smooth action and effortless typing experience. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and precise journey for casual typists. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile boasts a pronounced yet balanced tactility, perfect for those seeking a tactile feedback while typing. Additionally, it has a distinctive jelly-like sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Medium Tactile both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This choice leads to similar outcomes for both switches, as polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and eye-catching illumination. Therefore, whether it's the Mannan Pipefish or the Medium Tactile, users can expect similar results in terms of sound performance and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the polycarbonate top housing.
Regarding the bottom housings, the Mannan Pipefish and the Medium Tactile both employ nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. As the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, users will experience the qualities of nylon predominantly when pressing down on these switches. Therefore, whether it's the Mannan Pipefish or the Medium Tactile, both switches offer a similar depth and richness in sound due to the use of nylon for the bottom housing.
In summary, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Medium Tactile have slight differences in their housing materials, they ultimately offer comparable outcomes. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Additionally, the nylon bottom housings of both switches create a deeper and fuller sound, adding a sense of richness to the typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar sound performance and tactile feedback from both the Mannan Pipefish and the Medium Tactile, thanks to the careful selection of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Medium Tactile switch's actuation force is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 65 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Mannan Pipefish switch more suitable. Its lower actuation force allows for effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Medium Tactile switch offers a more substantial push feel due to its heavier bottom out force. This can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who appreciate a stronger feedback.
Although the specific actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch is not provided, it is worth noting that if it is similar or lighter than the Mannan Pipefish, users can expect comparable results in terms of actuation force. However, the heavier bottom out force of the Medium Tactile switch ensures a distinct difference in the overall typing experience compared to the Mannan Pipefish.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those desiring a more substantial and tactile feedback may find the Medium Tactile switch more appealing.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance of travel. Although their travel distances are equal, it is worth noting that the Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch, while the Medium Tactile is a tactile switch. Therefore, they may provide a different typing experience despite having the same travel distance. Both switches offer a satisfying amount of travel, ensuring a tactile feedback to typists.
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 Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound level, suitable for most purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use the keyboard at home or work. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Durock Medium Tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience. This switch requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This light actuation force also reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined keystrokes. This switch provides a sleek typing experience due to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch also has a stepped design, meaning it feels like it has two stages with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a safe middle-ground approach to sound and feel. Similar to the Mannan Pipefish switch, the Durock Medium Tactile switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a smooth, linear action with a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This provides a comfortable and precise typing experience, suitable for casual typists seeking strain-free keyboarding. The sound profile of the Mannan Pipefish switch is neutral, making it suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature. Its mild and accented feel, along with the polished finish, make it a popular choice for those who prefer tactile switches without overwhelming characteristics. While there is more specific information available about the Mannan Pipefish switch, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience in their respective ways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.
If you are a casual typist seeking a strain-free and delightful typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish switch might be the perfect choice for you. With its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation, and bottom-out force, it offers effortless and precise typing. Additionally, the lengthened spring adds to the overall comfort. The Mannan Pipefish also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile switch might be more appealing to you. This switch provides a balanced tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, making it suitable for those who enjoy a medium tactile feel. Additionally, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is also polished, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
Ultimately, you should consider factors such as preferred actuation force, typing style, and desired sound and feel when deciding between these two switches. Both the Mannan Pipefish and the Medium Tactile switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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