KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you are in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may want to consider the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Pine. The Mannan Pipefish switch offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This switch is perfect for casual typists who value comfort and precision. On the other hand, the Pine switch boasts a medium-heavy feel with a buttery smoothness that allows for an effortless typing experience. Its polished and factory-lubed finish reduces friction, resulting in smooth key travel. While the Mannan Pipefish switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Pine switch is described as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their unique qualities and advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Pine share several similarities. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, if you are looking for vibrant and visually appealing switches with excellent sound quality, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Pine would be suitable options.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a distinct difference between the two switches. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a classic switch experience. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, resulting in the absorption of more sound and a rounder, duller sound profile. In contrast, the Pine employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound characteristics associated with this material.
It is worth noting that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing's impact becomes more apparent when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Mannan Pipefish and the Pine offer similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housing, the use of different materials for the bottom housing results in distinct sensations during typing or gaming experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, some key differences can be observed. The Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Pine switch requires a slightly heavier touch, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter keyboard for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions, the Mannan Pipefish may be the preferred choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for a more effortless keystroke, reducing fatigue over time. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Pine switch. With its slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, the Pine switch provides users with a stronger push feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
It is worth mentioning that, although the forces of the two switches differ, one can still achieve similar results by adjusting their typing style. Users who prefer a lighter touch can adapt their typing technique to avoid bottoming out excessively on the Pine switch, creating a similar experience to the Mannan Pipefish. Likewise, those using the Mannan Pipefish can adjust their typing to add a bit more force when pressing the keys to mimic the feel of the Pine switch.
In terms of weight, both switches are not explicitly mentioned as being heavier or lighter than the other. However, the force measurements provide some insights into the relative weight of the switches. Based on the forces mentioned, the Mannan Pipefish can be considered lighter than the Pine switch, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch depends on individual preferences. Those prioritizing a lighter touch and extended typing comfort may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Pine switch's higher forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. In the case of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of key travel. Therefore, whether you opt for the Mannan Pipefish or the Pine, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance.
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 KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 switch is considered to have a neutral profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile and is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, using it at home or at work. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound. These switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This can bring a unique auditory experience to your typing.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for being easy to press. It offers 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 is polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Pine switch is described as buttery and creamy. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, as well as a silky sensation when typing. These switches provide a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing feel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Pine switches have distinct subjective qualities. The Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. It provides comfort and precision, making it suitable for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral profile. As for the feel, it is easy to press and polished, offering low-impact typing and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Pine switches are medium-heavy, buttery smooth, and built for an effortless typing experience. They have a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction and ensures smooth key travel. The sound profile of the Pine switches is characterized by bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a unique auditory experience.
Overall, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with buttery smoothness and a bassy sound profile, the Pine switch would be more suitable. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer their own unique qualities to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist seeking a strain-free and delightful typing experience, you should choose the Mannan Pipefish linear switch. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, as well as a lengthened spring and smooth linear action, this switch offers effortless and enjoyable typing. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is easy to press and features a polished finish, resulting in a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the Pine linear switch is the right choice for you. With its 58g bottom-out force and polished, factory-lubed finish, the Pine switch minimizes friction and provides a smooth key travel. This switch offers an effortless typing experience and is known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, adding a deeper and richer tone to your typing.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Whether you value a light and strain-free typing experience or a medium-heavy and buttery smooth sensation, both the Mannan Pipefish and Pine switches offer unique features to enhance your typing journey. So, consider your personal preferences and choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and needs.
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