KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro mechanical keyboard switches, we can see that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Mannan Pipefish switch boasts a smooth linear action, light 45g actuation force, and a comfortable typing experience, making it ideal for those seeking effortless and strain-free typing. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro switch is known for its snappy sound signature and smooth actuation, providing a pleasing tactile experience with a lively, crisp quality to each keystroke. While the Mannan Pipefish switch is 'easy-to-press' and 'neutral', the V3 Piano Pro switch is described as 'bouncy', 'clacky', 'creamy', 'polished', 'resonant', and 'silky'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and the typing experience you are looking for. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, one key difference is evident in the top housing. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. In contrast, the V3 Piano Pro features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. While the Mannan Pipefish offers a more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Piano Pro provides a richer and rounder sound with its nylon top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Mannan Pipefish and the V3 Piano Pro utilize nylon for this component. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings is said to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound due to nylon's softer nature. As such, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel for both the Mannan Pipefish and the V3 Piano Pro.
In terms of overall sound experience, the choice of housing materials for a switch can significantly impact the sound profile. While the Mannan Pipefish and the V3 Piano Pro share similar qualities in their nylon bottom housing, their differences in top housing materials result in distinct sound characteristics. The Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for a switch can influence not only the sound profile but also the overall typing experience for the user.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the heavier actuation force of 45 grams for the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch. In terms of bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams, while the V3 Piano Pro needs 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better option, as it allows for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, the V3 Piano Pro provides a bit more resistance, giving a solid typing experience. Despite the differences in force requirements, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottoming out, ensuring a satisfactory typing experience for users.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Mannan Pipefish has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Piano Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Mannan Pipefish offers a more traditional and deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro provides a shallower press that appeals to gamers and those seeking faster response times. Both switches have their advantages, with the longer travel distance providing a more deliberate typing experience, while the shorter travel distance offers quicker key response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
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 V3 Piano Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Piano Pro 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
In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for most purposes with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch provides a clacky and resonant sound, characterized by sharp and snappy keystrokes with a high-pitched and immersive sound profile. The choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, with the Mannan Pipefish offering a more versatile option while the Akko V3 Piano Pro delivers a distinctive and lively auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as easy-to-press and polished, providing gentle resistance during key presses and a smooth typing experience due to refined finishes. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch is characterized as bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky, offering a spring-like feedback sensation, smooth and buttery typing experience, and reduced friction for effortless keystrokes. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through different tactile qualities, catering to users who prefer either a light and easy keypress or a more bouncy and smooth typing feel.
Overall, the Mannan Pipefish and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish provides a comfortable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Akko V3 Piano Pro delivers a lively and crisp sound signature paired with a bouncy and creamy typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, ensuring that users can find the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prefer a lighter touch and a smoother typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish with its 45g bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy and crisp sound while typing and prefer a slightly firmer feel with a 55g bottom out force, the V3 Piano Pro switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so it's essential to consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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