KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream. The Mannan Pipefish is known for its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, offering an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey, this switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream provides a heftier linear typing experience, accompanied by a fairly deep sound profile. With a categorization of 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', these switches offer a unique tactile feedback. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct differences in sound profile and aesthetics. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Furthermore, its translucency makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer pleasing sound profiles, the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate housing is more focused on clarity and sharpness, while the NovelKeys Cream's POM housing provides a unique and deeper sound experience.
The bottom housing materials also contribute to the overall sound profile of these switches. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer and more sound-absorbent properties. This creates a duller and rounder sound, adding to the overall typing experience. Similarly, the NovelKeys Cream also features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to its uniquely pleasing and deeper sound profile. While both switches offer similar deep sounds, the Mannan Pipefish's nylon housing may have a slightly fuller and rounder sound compared to the Cream's POM housing.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials, it becomes clear that they play different roles in the overall typing experience. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, making it crucial for creating a satisfying tactile feedback. The qualities of the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing contribute to a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound, while the Cream's POM bottom housing offers a similar deep and muted impact. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. The sharpness and clarity of the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing enhance the sound when letting go of a key, while the Cream's POM top housing contributes to a slightly muted release sound.
In summary, the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetics. The Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while its nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing that produces a unique, slightly muted sound, complemented by its POM bottom housing. While both switches offer pleasing and deep sounds, the Mannan Pipefish focuses more on clarity and impact, while the Cream offers a more muted and distinctive experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, meaning it requires a relatively gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, providing a slightly firmer push feel. Both switches have a lighter bottom out force compared to their actuation force. The Mannan Pipefish has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This indicates that for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream is better suited for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience, with a stronger push required for each keystroke. Overall, while the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation and bottom out force, the NovelKeys Cream offers a slightly heavier and more intense typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is 4 mm, and the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is also 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a similar distance of travel from the top to the bottom.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate pitch and volume, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. This means that it produces a deeper and more immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. However, based on the provided information, the Mannan Pipefish may result in a more neutral sound while the NovelKeys Cream will produce a deeper and more resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as easy-to-press and polished. This means that it offers a smooth and effortless keystroke experience with minimal force required to activate the switch. It provides a low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The polished finish adds to the sleek and refined typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery and invigorating. This means that it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and uniform typing sensation. It offers pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing sensation. Based on the provided information, both switches offer a smooth typing experience, although the specific feel may differ slightly between the two.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience with a smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and lengthened spring. It offers a comfortable and precise typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a heftier and more invigorating typing experience. It offers a deeper sound profile and a buttery and invigorating feel, resulting in a seamless and immersive typing sensation. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can provide a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light and strain-free typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers an effortless and comfortable typing feel. The smooth linear action and lengthened spring further enhance the precision and enjoyment of your typing journey. This switch is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 70 grams, it provides a heftier typing experience. The low-pitched and resonant sound profile adds a unique auditory immersion to your typing sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing feel, go for the Mannan Pipefish switch. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the overall experience you seek when making your decision.
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