KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Cream Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Cream Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Cream Pink offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Mannan Pipefish is designed for effortless and enjoyable typing, boasting a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force that delivers a smooth, precise feel. Its lengthened spring contributes to a comfortable typing experience, making it an excellent choice for casual typists who prioritize both comfort and ease during long sessions. In contrast, while the Outemu Cream Pink lacks specific standout features in its description, it nevertheless presents a foundational linear switch option that appeals to those seeking a straightforward typing feel. Ultimately, whether you lean towards the refined design of the Mannan Pipefish or the simplicity of the Outemu Cream Pink, both switches have their merits. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your typing needs.
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
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Outemu Cream Pink switches significantly differ in their composition, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. This particular characteristic makes it especially appealing for users who appreciate clarity and brightness in their typing experience. The translucency of the polycarbonate also enhances the RGB lighting effects when utilized, making it an attractive choice for those looking to showcase their keyboard aesthetically. In contrast, the Cream Pink's nylon top housing offers a more subdued sound profile; the nylon, being a softer material, absorbs sound rather than amplifying it, resulting in a deeper, fuller tone with a rounder character.
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Outemu Cream Pink utilize nylon for their bottom housings, creating a cohesive foundation for both switches. This similarity in material results in a consistent experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, as both nylon housings contribute to a muffled and warm sound profile. The use of nylon here underscores a classic approach to switch design, showcasing its effectiveness in achieving a desirable typing experience. Although the top housings differ significantly, the shared nylon material in the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar tactile sensation when engaging the keypress, reinforcing the underlying characteristics typical of nylon-based switches.
When considering the overall performance and sound profile of each switch, the combination of different materials in the top and bottom housings makes a noticeable impact. The Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top allows for a crisper release sound when keys are lifted, while the nylon bottom dampens the impact of bottoming out. In contrast, the Cream Pink’s fully nylon construction results in a much more unified acoustic signature that maintains a consistent typing feel across both actions. Ultimately, while the switches exhibit different sound qualities due to their top housing materials, the shared nylon in the bottoms allows for comparable tactile sensations and deeper sound profiles, evidencing how the selection of housing materials can create unique yet harmonious typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Mannan Pipefish features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a softer touch that facilitates extended typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, giving it a more substantial feel that may appeal to users who enjoy a firmer key press for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, if you favor lighter switches, the Mannan Pipefish stands out, while the Cream Pink caters to those seeking a stronger push. Thus, the Pipefish is lighter, while the Cream Pink is heavier, providing distinct options based on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch share the same travel distance of 4 mm, which means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical for both switches. This similarity ensures that users will experience comparable keystrokes when using either switch, leading to similar tactile feedback and actuation characteristics. As a result, there are no distinctions to be made regarding travel distance; both switches offer the same performance in terms of how far they travel when pressed.
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 Cream Pink 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 profile, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is characterized by a neutral sound design. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement paired with a balanced acoustics, making it versatile for both beginners and experienced typists alike, whether used in home or office settings. The sound produced by the Pipefish, while not overwhelmingly loud, sits comfortably in the middle range, providing an unobtrusive auditory experience. In contrast, the sound qualities of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch remain unspecified, which leaves a gap in understanding its acoustic performance.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish excels in providing an easy-to-press experience. Its light 45g actuation force contributes to a typing experience that is both effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Furthermore, the polished nature of the switch ensures a smooth and refined key travel, enhancing the overall tactile experience. The Cream Pink switch does not come with any descriptive feedback regarding its feel, making it difficult to gauge whether it matches the effortless action and smoothness offered by the Mannan Pipefish.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is a well-rounded option characterized by its neutral sound profile and exceptional feel, making it a great choice for casual typists who value comfort and smoothness. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Pink lacks specified qualities regarding sound and feel, leaving potential users with an unknown experience. While the Mannan Pipefish provides a reliable and enjoyable typing experience, the lack of information on the Cream Pink switch means that those curious about it will need to explore further to understand what it offers.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Cream Pink linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you are someone who values a light, effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish will likely serve you well. With a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, this switch is designed for comfort, making it ideal for casual typists or those who spend long hours typing. Its smooth linear action and polished feel can significantly reduce finger fatigue, allowing for more enjoyable and strain-free sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a firmer feel and a more pronounced typing experience, the Outemu Cream Pink, with its 65-gram bottom-out force, could be more suitable for you. While it doesn't have the same level of description surrounding its characteristics, heavier switches can sometimes offer improved tactile feedback, which some typists appreciate, especially for programming or gaming. Consider your typing habits, whether comfort or feedback is your priority, and you'll be able to make an informed decision that enhances your keyboard experience.
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