KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Brown 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 Outemu Brown offer different typing experiences to suit varying preferences. The Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch, is renowned for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides a comfortable and precise typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, offers a different feel with its subtle tactile feedback without the audible click. While the Mannan Pipefish is characterized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Brown has no specific categorizations. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, which cater to different typing styles and 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
53g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Brown switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, adding a visual appeal to the overall experience. Despite using the same material for the top housing, the switches may vary in terms of other components that affect sound and typing feel.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the KTT Mannan Pipefish features nylon, while the Outemu Brown also uses nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Both switches benefit from the properties of nylon in their bottom housing, impacting the overall typing experience and sound produced when pressing down on the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Outemu Brown switches differ in material, they each contribute unique characteristics to the typing experience. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, influences the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing, constructed from polycarbonate in both switches, affects the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding how these housing materials impact sound and typing feel, enthusiasts can choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Brown tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 53 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish switch would be easier to actuate with less force applied. Similarly, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams compared to the Brown's heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This suggests that the Mannan Pipefish switch would provide a softer bottoming out experience compared to the firmer bottom out of the Brown switch. In terms of weight, the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, the Outemu Brown switch offers a heavier typing experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Regardless of the weight and force differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences, and the choice between them would ultimately depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When comparing the two, it can be said that both switches provide a similar tactile experience and typing feel due to their identical travel distances. This means that whether you choose the Mannan Pipefish or the Outemu Brown, you can expect to get the same results in terms of keypress feedback and overall typing experience.
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 Brown 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 profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is unknown, but it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate, which can help reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch provides a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. As for the Outemu Brown tactile switch, the tactile feedback and actuation force are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the feel of both switches in this aspect.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mannan Pipefish linear switch provides a comfortable and precise typing experience with a light actuation force, while the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers tactile feedback that some users may prefer. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal typing style and preference for linear or tactile feedback. However, if you enjoy a smooth and effortless typing experience, you can expect similar results with either switch due to their smooth actuation and refined finish.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience with a smooth linear action, the Mannan Pipefish switch with its 45g bottom out force may be the perfect fit for you. It is ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a 65g bottom out force, the Outemu Brown switch may be more suitable for you. Overall, consider factors such as actuation force, typing feel, and sound profile to make the best decision for your typing style. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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