KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but unsure which one to choose? Today, we will be comparing and contrasting two popular linear switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Piano. Both switches offer unique features that make them stand out from the crowd. The Mannan Pipefish is best known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, with a smooth linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Durock Piano is praised for its proprietary material blend, resulting in a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature. While these general descriptions provide some insight, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Piano switches offer different characteristics, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Piano switch incorporates a proprietary POM blend top housing, offering a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile. While the exact details of the blend remain unknown, this material choice ensures a distinctive auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon housing, a classic choice known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Durock Piano features a proprietary POM blend bottom housing. Although specifics regarding this blend are not disclosed, it promises a satisfying and deep sound profile similar to its top housing counterpart.
When considering the overall experience of pressing a key, the differences in top and bottom housing materials become evident. The properties of the bottom housing, be it the nylon in the Mannan Pipefish or the undisclosed POM blend in the Piano, play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound produced upon releasing a key. Understanding the division of these qualities allows enthusiasts to make informed decisions based on their desired auditory experience.
In summary, the use of polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish's top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound, while the proprietary POM blend in the Piano yields a uniquely satisfying and deep auditory experience. The nylon bottom housing in the Mannan Pipefish generates a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the undisclosed POM blend in the Piano aims for the same effect. Recognizing the influence of each housing material on bottom-out and release sounds provides individuals with the ability to choose switches that align with their preferences and requirements.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, we can observe some differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the exact actuation force of the Durock Piano is unknown, but its bottom out force is 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. The Mannan Pipefish is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Durock Piano, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter and more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. It's worth noting that if both switches have the same actuation force or bottom out force, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preferences and the desired weight and typing experience one seeks in their keyboard.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the tactile experience when pressing down on a key. Comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when using either switch, users will experience the same distance traveled from top to bottom when pressing down on a key. Thus, in terms of travel distance, there are no discernible differences between the two switches.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 can be classified as a neutral switch, meaning it has a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and creamy sound signature. Its bassy nature provides a lower frequency range, giving it a rich and resonant sound during key presses. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It provides gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. This smooth and low-friction finish enhances the overall typing feel and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its frictionless typing experience. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless feel, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. This switch provides a fluid travel, allowing for seamless typing. Furthermore, the Durock Piano switch has a silky typing experience. This means that it offers exceptional smoothness, further enhancing the overall typing feel and minimizing any resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish and Durock Piano linear switches offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish has a neutral sound profile and provides an easy-to-press experience with its polished finish. On the other hand, the Durock Piano offers a bassy sound profile and a frictionless, silky typing experience. Both switches excel in providing smooth and enjoyable typing experiences, but the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch may be the preferable choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. It offers a smooth linear action and a lengthened spring, ensuring a comfortable and precise typing experience. The Mannan Pipefish switch is also described as easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, which reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, its polished finish contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a deep and rich sound profile during key presses, the Durock Piano linear switch might be the better option for you. Known for its proprietary material blend, the Piano switch offers a gliding push feel and a creamy sound signature. It is described as bassy, providing a lower frequency range reminiscent of bass tones.
In conclusion, the choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences. If you value a comfortable and precise typing experience with light actuation force and reduced friction, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the way to go. However, if a deep and rich sound profile during key presses is your priority, the Piano switch may be the better choice. Consider these factors to make an informed decision that suits your typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
