KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron New North Pole V2 are two popular options to consider. The Mannan Pipefish is widely regarded for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides comfort and precision for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 from Gateron offers a crisper typing experience compared to its predecessor, as it no longer has a rubber dampener. Despite this change, it still maintains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup - a frictionless typing feel. Gateron has managed to keep the seamless glide and smoothness that users love. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced, making it ideal for those who prioritize a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing aspect to these switches. Therefore, both the Mannan Pipefish and the New North Pole V2 switches will offer similar results when it comes to sound and aesthetics in the top housing department.
However, where these two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Mannan Pipefish employs nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows for the absorption of more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing. This decision ensures a continuation of the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate. As a result, the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches will be influenced by their respective bottom housing materials.
When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be most noticeable. The Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, while the New North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing will maintain a sharper and crisper sound. Conversely, the top housing material will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users will experience slight variations in sound and feel depending on the switch they choose, with the Mannan Pipefish offering a potentially more rounded sound and the New North Pole V2 maintaining a sharper sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the New North Pole V2 requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams, making it more substantial to trigger a keystroke. The bottom out force of the New North Pole V2 is also higher at 62.5 grams, creating a firmer press when typing. This indicates that the Mannan Pipefish is lighter than the New North Pole V2 in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. If someone prefers a lighter keystroke, they would likely opt for the Mannan Pipefish, allowing for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions without excessive strain. However, if a user prefers a more robust and substantial typing experience, they may prefer the New North Pole V2 with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, these differences showcase the importance of weight considerations when selecting a keyboard switch, as lighter switches provide longer typing comfort, while heavier switches offer a more satisfying tactile feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is the same, measuring at 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent and equal distance for users to feel when pressing down on a key. Whether you choose the Mannan Pipefish or the New North Pole V2, you can expect 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 Gateron New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it suitable for various uses, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch. However, 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, both the Mannan Pipefish and the New North Pole V2 linear switches are described as having a polished finish. This means that both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience, resulting in a sleek and enjoyable feel. The smoothness and low friction of the switches' polished surfaces contribute to a reduced sense of resistance and effortless key travel. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is also described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the New North Pole V2 switch is also described as creamy and frictionless, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with effortless and fluid key presses.
In conclusion, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switches offer desirable qualities for typing enthusiasts. While the Mannan Pipefish provides a comfortable and precise typing experience with its smooth linear action and light actuation and bottom-out force, the New North Pole V2 brings a crisper typing experience without the rubber dampener, while maintaining the hallmark frictionless feel of the North Pole lineup. Although specific information regarding the sound profile of the New North Pole V2 is unknown, its polished finish suggests a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, both switches present attractive options for those seeking effortless and strain-free keyboarding journeys, and they are likely to provide similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a lighter and more effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is the ideal choice. With its light 45g actuation force and bottom-out force, you can expect a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. It offers a smooth and polished feel with reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish is a neutral switch, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced typists in any setting.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a crisper typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 is the way to go. While it no longer has a rubber dampener like its predecessor, it still maintains the hallmark feature of the North Pole lineup - a frictionless typing feel. The switch offers a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth key travel. If you prioritize a creamy and buttery typing sensation, the New North Pole V2's creamy switch variant may be the perfect fit. It provides a silky sensation and effortless keystrokes.
In conclusion, whether you choose the Mannan Pipefish or the New North Pole V2, you can expect a high-quality typing experience. Consider your desired actuation force, typing feel, and tactile preferences when making your decision. Both switches offer their own unique features, so it's a matter of personal preference. Ultimately, both switches provide a delightful and enjoyable typing experience, allowing you to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard.
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