KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade). The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch, known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides a comfortable and precise typing journey, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free experience. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is a tactile switch that offers a sharp tactile feel. What sets it apart is its unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, providing a rare and premium typing experience. With a strong downstroke tactile bump and an even sharper and stronger upstroke bump, these switches create a hypertactile sensation. Furthermore, the Moyu Blacks have a distinctive sound, with a satisfyingly sharp, short, snappy, and punchy sound on the downstroke. With their medium-heavy feel and an accentuated bottom-out, they offer an impactful typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best determine which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PBT
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
PBT
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) differ in several aspects. The Mannan Pipefish has a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) features a PBT top housing, offering a neutral sound profile. It is neither very crisp nor dull, providing a balanced sound experience.
Regarding the bottom housing, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) integrates a PBT bottom housing. Like its top housing, it also offers a neutral sound profile. It neither enhances crispness nor dullness, ensuring a consistent sound experience throughout typing.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on these switches, the impact and resultant sound will be influenced by the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the top housing. Thus, while the specific housing materials may differ, both switches provide a well-rounded typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch, we can see clear differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, when considering bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams, while the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has a higher bottom out force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be a suitable choice as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. This allows for extended typing periods without causing excessive fatigue. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is more suitable for individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. The heavier actuation and bottom out forces provide a satisfying tactile feedback.
It's worth noting that although the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two switches, both can still offer a comparable result. Those who prefer a lighter feel can still achieve a similar typing experience with the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) by applying a lighter touch, while those who prefer a heavier feel can adjust their typing technique on the Mannan Pipefish to achieve a similar outcome. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) 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 the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile experience, ensuring that typing or gaming with either switch will provide similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) has an MSRP of $12.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) for $7.59.
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
In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish and the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) offer contrasting experiences. The Mannan Pipefish has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) provides a resonant sound profile that is higher-pitched and sharp. This gives it a more immersive auditory experience during typing. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press experience. It has a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is described as accented, providing a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. It has a sharp and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
Considering the available information, the Mannan Pipefish is best suited for casual typists seeking a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. It offers a smooth linear action with a light actuation force, enhancing typing precision. The neutral sound profile makes it suitable for a variety of purposes. On the other hand, the Moyu Black (Dark Jade) is designed for those who prefer a sharp tactile feel. It offers a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, providing a premium typing experience. The strong downstroke and even sharper upstroke bump create a hypertactile sensation. The sound produced during typing is sharp, short, snappy, and punchy. With their medium-heavy feel and accentuated bottom-out, these switches offer a distinctive and impactful typing experience.
If you are looking for a similar experience to the Mannan Pipefish in terms of sound and feel, you can aim for a switch with a similar neutral sound profile and easy-to-press characteristics. Similarly, for a similar experience to the Moyu Black (Dark Jade), you can look for a switch that offers a sharp and crisp tactile bump, combined with a resonant sound profile. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience can also be influenced by other factors, such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a light actuation force, and a comfortable and precise feel, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches are perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and distinct tactile feel, with a medium-heavy actuation force and an impactful typing experience, the Everglide Moyu Black (Dark Jade) tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a unique blend of PBT top and bottom housing, providing a rare and premium typing experience. The Moyu Blacks feature a strong downstroke tactile bump and an even sharper upstroke bump, offering a hypertactile sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to whether you prioritize a comfortable and precise typing experience with a light actuation force (Mannan Pipefish) or a sharp and impactful typing experience with a distinct tactile feel (Moyu Black). Consider your preferences and typing style to choose the switch that suits you best.