KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue Jade offer distinct typing experiences. The Mannan Pipefish features a smooth linear action with a light 45g actuation force, making it ideal for casual typists looking for a comfortable and precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade is a clicky switch with a different tactile feedback. While the Mannan Pipefish is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', 'Polished', the Blue Jade lacks any specific categorization. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
65g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue Jade switches differ in terms of the top housing material used. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Both the Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Blue Jade switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This material brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. However, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the impact of the bottom housing on the sound and feel when typing.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While the KTT Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing creates a clearer and more resonant sound, the Outemu Blue Jade's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller tone. The nylon bottom housings in both switches help in absorbing sound, resulting in a more muffled and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, the overall typing experience is influenced by a combination of the top and bottom housing materials, with each contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The Mannan Pipefish switch provides a lighter and smoother typing experience, making it suitable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Blue Jade switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier force for their keystrokes. Both switches offer different levels of force for actuation and bottoming out, catering to individuals with varying preferences for typing feedback.
Travel distance
The Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is used. Ultimately, whether using the Mannan Pipefish or the Blue Jade, 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 Outemu Blue Jade 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
When it comes to sound, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing situations. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound characteristics are unknown. However, keep in mind that sound can also be influenced by factors like keyboard casing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, and providing a polished typing experience with smooth key travel. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is unspecified. If you enjoy a light and effortless typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, the Mannan Pipefish switch may be the preferred choice.
Overall, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a smooth and comfortable typing experience with its light actuation force and polished feel. While the sound characteristics and feel of the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch are unknown, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on your personal preferences and typing needs, you can expect a delightful typing journey with the Mannan Pipefish switch, and potentially similar results if you choose the Outemu Blue Jade switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch with its light 45g bottom out force would be a great choice. It offers gentle resistance and a polished feel, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy 65g bottom out force and are looking for a more audible typing experience, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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