KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Akko Penguin
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Akko Penguin switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Akko Penguin offer distinct typing experiences. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, featuring smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. Ideal for casual typists looking for a strain-free journey, this switch falls under the categories of 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin is a tactile switch designed for silent operation, making it perfect for office environments. With a rounded tactile bump that provides satisfying feedback and a medium weight for balanced responsiveness, the Penguin is categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle'. While each switch has its unique qualities, deciding between the Mannan Pipefish and the Akko Penguin ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. 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
43g
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
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Akko Penguin differ in terms of their top housing material. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish is more likely to be used for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the nylon top housing of the Akko Penguin provides a classic typing experience.
In terms of their bottom housing materials, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Akko Penguin use nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This similarity in housing materials suggests that the typing experience on both switches will have a consistent feel and sound profile when it comes to bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, leading to a duller and rounder sound overall. This consistency in material for the bottom housing enhances the overall typing experience and ensures a familiar feel for users of both switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Mannan Pipefish and the Akko Penguin differ, the impact of each material on the typing experience is clear. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch determine the sound profile both when pressing down on a key and when letting go. The differences in stiffness between polycarbonate and nylon in the top housing of the Mannan Pipefish and Akko Penguin respectively result in distinct sound profiles, while the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience for the user.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In comparison, the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 43 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches cater to individuals with distinct preferences for key feel, with the Mannan Pipefish being the lighter option and the Penguin being the heavier option. These variations in force allow users to choose the switch that best aligns with their typing or gaming habits and preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Penguin has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mannan Pipefish. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker responses, while a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keystroke for some users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference between the two can impact the typing experience based on personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more substantial key press.
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 Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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 KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is neutral, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as muted, providing a softer and quieter sound to minimize noise in office environments. Depending on your choice of keyboard and keycaps, both switches can deliver a pleasant typing experience with their different sound characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for being easy-to-press and polished, offering a smooth and low-impact typing feel that enhances the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is also polished, providing a smooth key travel experience. Additionally, the Penguin switch is described as mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with their different tactile characteristics.
Overall, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mannan Pipefish switch excels in providing a comfortable and precise typing experience with its light actuation force, while the Akko Penguin switch is ideal for those looking for a quieter tactile switch option with a balanced weight for extended typing sessions. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing journey, showcasing the versatility of mechanical keyboard switches in enhancing the typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Akko Penguin tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize 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 work in an office setting where noise reduction is crucial and you prefer a medium-weight switch with a satisfying tactile feedback, the Akko Penguin switches are a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value comfort and precision or quiet operation and tactile feedback in your typing experience.
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