KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Miaowu mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Mannan Pipefish is praised for its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, making it a comfortable and precise choice for casual typists. On the other hand, the Miaowu stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. While the Mannan Pipefish is described as 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Miaowu is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Miaowu are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. Overall, the polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a consistent sound profile that is both vibrant and aesthetically pleasing.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish and the Miaowu differs slightly. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the differences may be subtle, the bottom housing of a switch has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when keys are pressed, showcasing the importance of housing materials in overall switch performance.
Overall, while the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Miaowu may differ slightly in terms of the bottom housing, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing ensures that the unique qualities of each material can be felt and heard when using the switches. Whether it be the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing or the deeper sound profile of the nylon bottom housing, both switches offer a versatile and satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the KTT Miaowu linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. Both switches have a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly lighter force of 45 grams, while the Miaowu has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This difference in bottom out force may provide a slightly firmer typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, with the Mannan Pipefish being slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Miaowu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Miaowu's 3.5 mm. The Mannan Pipefish offers a slightly deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Miaowu provides a slightly shallower travel distance, making it a more responsive option for users seeking quick response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press 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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a more neutral tone, suitable for various typing environments without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch provides a clacky sound profile, with a sharp and crisp noise that adds a tactile element to each keystroke. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is characterized by its easy-to-press quality, requiring minimal force for activation and offering a smooth and polished typing experience. This makes it ideal for users looking for a comfortable and effortless typing session, reducing fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like feedback when typing. This can add a dynamic feel to each keystroke, providing a more lively typing experience.
Overall, if you enjoy a more neutral sound profile and prefer a smooth and polished feel with minimal resistance, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be an excellent choice for a strain-free typing experience. Conversely, if you prefer a clacky sound with a bouncy feedback for a more dynamic typing sensation, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be the better option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch to enhance their typing journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, consider the typing experience you are seeking. If you prioritize effortless and strain-free typing with a light 45g actuation force, smooth linear action, and precise keystrokes, then the Mannan Pipefish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer enhanced stem stability, smoother keystroke action, and a bouncy feel, the Miaowu switch with its POK stem might be the better option. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style.Choose wisely based on your priorities and enjoy a satisfying typing experience with your mechanical keyboard.
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