KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch. The Mannan Pipefish switch offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation force, and precise bottom-out force. This switch is perfect for casual typists looking for a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch provides a distinct clicky typing experience, but not much other information is available about it. These switches offer different typing experiences suited for different preferences, so it's essential to delve deeper into their details to determine which one is the best fit for your 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
2.20 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 Dustproof Blue, both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for light to shine through. Despite the similarities in the top housing material, the bottom housing differs between the two switches. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the difference in bottom housing material contributes to distinct typing experiences. The Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing results in a more robust sound when typing, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, giving off a softer and duller sound. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch impact both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a crisper, sharper sound profile or a fuller, deeper sound profile in your typing experience.
In conclusion, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Dustproof Blue share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, their distinctions lie in the bottom housing material. The Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Outemu Dustproof Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound for a softer, duller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound profiles is crucial for keyboard enthusiasts looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound and feel while typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we can see a clear difference in weight. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish for extended typing sessions, while users looking for a more robust typing experience may opt for the Dustproof Blue. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences and needs for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they both offer the same tactile experience and responsiveness due to their identical travel distances. Whether you choose the Mannan Pipefish or the Dustproof Blue, you can expect consistent key presses and a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for linear or clicky switches rather than the 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 Dustproof 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
When it comes to sound, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments without being too loud or too quiet. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to compare the two in terms of sound.
Moving on to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation, resulting in a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue over extended use. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, making it challenging to make a direct comparison.
In conclusion, while the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a comfortable and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press polished feel, the information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is limited. For a newcomer looking for a strain-free and enjoyable typing journey, the Mannan Pipefish may provide the desired qualities. Alternatively, if the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch produces similar results, it could also be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is important to think about your typing preferences and needs. If you value a light and smooth typing experience with minimal strain on your fingers, the Mannan Pipefish switch with its 45g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing feel with a clicky sound, the Dustproof Blue switch with its 65g bottom out force could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Consider trying out both switches to determine which one best fits your typing style.
Mentioned in this article
