KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Cherry MX Red, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Mannan Pipefish is praised for its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation force, and comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists looking for a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the MX Red from Cherry offers a slightly heftier feel, deeper sound profile, and a more robust typing experience, blending responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what specific qualities you prioritize in a keyboard switch. 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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Red switches present some interesting differences. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials are classic switch housing choices, the polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish offers a more resonant sound, especially when RGB lighting is involved, whereas the nylon in the Cherry MX Red produces a richer and rounder sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Cherry MX Red switches utilize nylon. This commonality means that both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbing nature of nylon. The softer plastic of nylon contributes to a duller and rounder sound, which is consistent across both switches. While the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when the key is released. Overall, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile between the Mannan Pipefish and the Cherry MX Red switches.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Cherry MX Red switches differ in their top housing materials, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This results in similar sound profiles across the switches, with the key differences lying in the sharper, higher-pitched sound of the polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish versus the deeper and fuller sound of the nylon in the Cherry MX Red. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish switch requires 45 grams of force, while the Cherry MX Red's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Mannan Pipefish switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force compared to the Cherry MX Red switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be a better option, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cherry MX Red switch with its heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch are both 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Despite this similarity, the two switches may differ in other factors such as actuation force or smoothness of operation. In terms of travel distance, however, both the Mannan Pipefish and MX Red linear switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience with the same amount of travel required to register a keystroke.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for a thocky and low-pitched sound that provides a deep and satisfying auditory experience. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is designed to be easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance and light actuation for a comfortable typing experience. The switch is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined feel that enhances typing efficiency. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch is noted for its textured feel, which may vary in preference among users depending on their preference for friction during typing.
Overall, both the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mannan Pipefish provides a neutral sound and an easy-to-press, polished feel for a strain-free typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel that may cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider the typing experience you are looking for. If you prefer a light actuation force and a smooth linear action for effortless and strain-free typing, then the Mannan Pipefish switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heftier feel and a deeper, more robust sound profile, the MX Red switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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