KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it's evident that both have their own unique selling points to offer. The Mannan Pipefish is praised for its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and extended spring, making it a comfortable and precise typing experience ideal for casual typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that provides a tactile feedback and audible click with each keypress. While the Mannan Pipefish is easy-to-press and polished, the Outemu Blue falls into a neutral category. Choosing between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switches. On the other hand, while the Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Outemu Blue also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housings, the different choices for their bottom housings highlight the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound profile of a switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. This demonstrates how a combination of housing materials can affect different aspects of a switch's sound and tactile feedback, making each switch unique in its auditory and sensory experience.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue ensures a consistent sharp, crisp sound profile, while the choice of nylon for the bottom housing results in varying degrees of depth and fullness in the sound produced. By understanding how different housing materials interact with key presses and releases, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that best suit their preferences for sound and tactile feedback, whether they prioritize clarity and resonance or a deeper, fuller sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. With an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, the Mannan Pipefish provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Outemu Blue switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams (though the bottom out force is unknown). Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Blue switch, while individuals who enjoy a lighter typing feel may opt for the Mannan Pipefish. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel distance. This can result in a consistent typing experience across both switches. Despite having the same travel distance, the tactile feedback and sound produced by the two switches are different, with the Mannan Pipefish being a linear switch and the Outemu Blue being a clicky switch. However, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of key travel, providing a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch is being used.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 offers a neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile, suitable for various users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout and keycap material used.
When it comes to the feel of typing, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for activation, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Blue switch is unknown.
Overall, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch seems to offer a comfortable and precise typing experience with its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and polished finish. While the Outemu Blue clicky switch lacks specific descriptions in terms of sound and feel, it is important to consider these subjective qualities when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that best suits your typing preferences and needs. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of typing experience if you prioritize comfort and precision in your keyboarding journey.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light actuation force, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. This switch is perfect for casual typists who want a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback of a switch, the Outemu Blue clicky switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Make sure to consider your typing habits and preferences before deciding on which switch to go for.
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