KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Phoenix. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch that offers smooth and effortless typing. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, along with a lengthened spring, it provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. This makes it ideal for casual typists who are looking for a strain-free and delightful keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out due to its under-skirt click mechanism. This unique feature delivers a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile that sets it apart from other clicky switches. It is categorized as "crunchy" and "polished," adding a satisfying tactile feedback to every keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can better decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix keyboards share many similarities. Both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and enhance the visual experience.
While the top housings are the same for both keyboards, their bottom housings differ. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, while the Phoenix uses a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, similar to its top housing. This split in housing materials allows for a combination of characteristics in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish will result in a deeper and fuller sound when the key is fully pressed. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phoenix will create a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound. On the other hand, when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced. Both keyboards, with their polycarbonate top housing, will provide a sharp and distinct sound when the key is released.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Phoenix keyboards share similarities in their top housing material, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, their bottom housing materials differ, with the Mannan Pipefish featuring a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, while the Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing for a sharper and crisper sound. The combination of these housing materials results in a unique sound and feel when typing on each keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Phoenix's actuation force is unknown, while its bottom out force stands at a relatively heavier 62 grams.
For those who prefer lighter switches, the Mannan Pipefish would be a suitable choice. With its lower actuation and bottom out forces, it allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. This makes it particularly appealing for individuals using keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Phoenix clicky switch caters to typists who prefer a more substantial typing experience. With a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a stronger push feel, giving the user a tactile and satisfying feedback while typing.
Considering the weight factor, those who prefer a lighter experience will find the Mannan Pipefish more appealing, while users who seek a heavier and more robust feel will be inclined towards the Phoenix clicky switch.
It's important to note that if the actuation force of the Phoenix is the same as the Mannan Pipefish, the typing experience in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke would be similar. However, the heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix would still differentiate the two switches, offering a distinct sensation when fully pressing down a key.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. In terms of travel distance, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer distance compared to the Phoenix. The Mannan Pipefish with its 4.0mm travel distance is more aligned with the traditional distance, providing a deeper and more satisfying key press. On the other hand, the Phoenix with its 3.3mm travel distance offers a shallower press, which is preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both options have their own advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. If you favor a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix would be the way to go. However, if you prefer a deeper key press, the longer travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish would be preferable. Overall, each switch provides a distinct feel and response, giving users the flexibility to choose based on their individual needs and preferences.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
Starting with sound, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, or if you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch is described as "crunchy," which is commonly associated with clicky switches. It produces a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides an easy-to-press experience. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Overall, these switches enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Phoenix switch is also described as polished, offering the same smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish provides a neutral sound profile, easy-to-press feel, and a polished finish for a delightful and strain-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy sound profile and a polished finish for a unique and sparkling typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose either switch to achieve similar results in terms of smoothness and refinement. Happy typing!
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for an effortless and comfortable typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. Its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, combined with its smooth linear action and lengthened spring, provide a strain-free keyboarding journey. This switch is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and precise typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix is the one for you. With its under-skirt click mechanism, it offers a satisfying and crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches also have a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, your choice between the Mannan Pipefish and the Phoenix will depend on your preference for the actuation force, sound, and feel of the switch. Consider your typing style and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard, and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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