KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Maple Leaf
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch, and the Outemu Maple Leaf, a tactile switch. The Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This makes it perfect for casual typists looking for a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch provides a tactile feedback that some users prefer for a more responsive typing experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Maple Leaf switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and typing experience. The Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer composition. In contrast, the Maple Leaf's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic construction. While both materials are durable and commonly used in switch housings, they result in contrasting typing experiences, with polycarbonate offering a clearer sound and nylon delivering a more rounded audio quality.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Maple Leaf switches utilize nylon, which generates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Despite sharing this material, the placement of the nylon in the switches can impact the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material, even when similar, can affect different aspects of typing feedback and sound production in mechanical switches.
Overall, while the Mannan Pipefish and Outemu Maple Leaf switches may share a housing material in the case of nylon, their top housing materials differ with polycarbonate and nylon, respectively. These distinctions lead to unique sound profiles and typing experiences for each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish contributes to a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Maple Leaf delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding how these housing materials influence sound and tactile feedback can help mechanical keyboard enthusiasts choose switches that align with their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In comparison, the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. The Mannan Pipefish switch is better suited for users who enjoy typing for extended periods without fatigue, while the Maple Leaf switch is ideal for those who prefer a more tactile feedback while typing. Both switches provide different levels of resistance, so users can choose based on their personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Maple Leaf switch. The Mannan Pipefish with its 4 mm travel distance offers a bit more depth when pressed, which can be preferred by those who want a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Maple Leaf switch provides a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.3 mm, making it a good choice for those who prioritize faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Mannan Pipefish offering a longer travel distance for a more solid feel, while the Maple Leaf provides a shorter distance for quicker inputs. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and 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 Maple Leaf 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 offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch is not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to note that sound can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycap material used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force for activation, which ultimately enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and comfortable feel. Additionally, the switch's polished finish contributes to a smooth and sleek typing experience with reduced friction. In comparison, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Maple Leaf switch are not provided, making it challenging to directly contrast the two switches in terms of feel.
Overall, both the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you prefer a smooth linear action with a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with specific sound characteristics, further research or testing may be necessary to determine if the Outemu Maple Leaf switch aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, selecting the right switch is a personal decision based on individual typing preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch or the Outemu Maple Leaf tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, the Mannan Pipefish with its smooth linear action and light 45g bottom out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch that provides a bit more feedback and typing satisfaction, the Maple Leaf with its 65g bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, choose the switch that best complements your typing style and enhances your overall keyboarding experience.
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