KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch, to the Outemu Cream Yellow, a tactile switch, they offer unique typing experiences for different preferences. The Mannan Pipefish is renowned for its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation force, and comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for casual typists looking for a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow provides a tactile bump for those who prefer feedback while typing. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Cream Yellow, we can see that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This choice likely results in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller and rounder sound. However, the Mannan Pipefish uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, emphasizing a consistent deep and full sound experience throughout typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency that is especially useful for RGB lighting effects, giving it an edge over the Cream Yellow in terms of customizable lighting options. However, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which may result in similar sound profiles when using the switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish's top housing leads to a more clear and resonant sound, while the softer nylon in the Cream Yellow's housing absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience.
When considering the overall impact of housing materials on typing experience, it becomes clear that the top and bottom housing materials play important roles in the sound profile of a switch. The split between the qualities brought by each housing material can be felt when pressing down on a key, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both the Mannan Pipefish and the Cream Yellow ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams to fully press down, while the Cream Yellow needs 60 grams, making the Cream Yellow the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow provides a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Cream Yellow switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mannan Pipefish switch. The Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing, while the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance may offer quicker response times, making it more ideal for gaming or those who prefer a more responsive key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Yellow 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 is considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is not available. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This feature provides a gentle resistance during key presses, resulting in a comfortable and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the switch is noted for its polished finish, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. Unfortunately, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch is not provided.
Overall, while the Mannan Pipefish linear switch excels in providing a comfortable and precise typing experience with its smooth linear action and light actuation force, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch lacks information on its specific qualities. Both switches may offer similar results depending on individual preferences and usage scenarios. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on whether the user prioritizes factors such as typing comfort, sound profile, and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you are looking for a smooth typing experience with light actuation force and minimal finger fatigue, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and tactile feedback while typing, the Cream Yellow switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize comfort and precision or tactile feedback and medium resistance in your typing experience. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your typing preferences.
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