KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. HMX Poro
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Poro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Poro offer distinctive experiences tailored to different preferences. The Mannan Pipefish is celebrated for its smooth linear action, featuring a lengthened spring that provides a comfortable 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This makes it an excellent choice for casual typists seeking an effortless and enjoyable typing journey without strain. On the other hand, the HMX Poro also boasts a silky smooth keystroke, enhanced by meticulous lubrication, making each press feel seamless. Its ultra-light actuation force contributes to a delightfully poppy and clacky sound profile, ideal for those who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. While both switches are linear, catering to users who prefer a flowing typing experience, their unique characteristics may appeal to different typing styles and preferences. 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Poro demonstrate contrasting characteristics that significantly impact the sound profiles of these two switches. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to polycarbonate’s relatively rigid structure, allowing for clearer resonance. Additionally, its translucent nature enhances the aesthetic appeal, especially for setups featuring RGB lighting, as it allows light to pass through beautifully. In contrast, the Poro switch employs a nylon top housing that fosters a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound waves, negating some of the sharpness typically associated with harder plastics, leading to a duller but more rounded auditory experience.
When examining the bottom housings, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and HMX Poro utilize nylon for their respective bottom housing components. This commonality means they share similar acoustic characteristics, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile regardless of the differences present in their top housings. This aspect illustrates how the impact of bottom housing materials can play a pivotal role in defining the overall sound experience of a switch. The nylon is effective at sound absorption, which contributes to a well-rounded typing experience and a satisfying bottom-out feel upon keypress. Both switches exhibit a similar undertone due to this shared material, showcasing how sound characteristics can converge despite the differing top housings.
In summary, the juxtaposition of housing materials in the KTT Mannan Pipefish and HMX Poro switches highlights the interplay of sound design and aesthetic functionality in keyboard switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mannan Pipefish generates brightness and clarity while benefiting from RGB lighting capabilities, which stands in stark contrast to the nylon top of the Poro that emphasizes warmth and fullness. However, the use of nylon in both switches' bottom housings creates a common ground for their sound profiles, ensuring that while they may present different auditory experiences when typing, they draw from a shared characteristic that reflects the unique properties of the nylon material. This complex relationship between housing materials shapes the performance and feel of each switch, demonstrating the intricacies involved in designing premium typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, it's clear that both options have a light feel, but they exhibit differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Poro switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter typing experience, which may appeal to users who type for extended periods, as it requires less effort to register each keystroke. Conversely, the HMX Poro, with its heavier actuation force, could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer feel. Overall, while both switches are light, the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option, making it more suitable for prolonged use, while the Poro offers a little more resistance for those seeking a stronger tactile experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the HMX Poro linear switch, the Mannan Pipefish offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Poro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Mannan Pipefish provides a deeper and more traditional feel, appealing to users who favor a substantial feedback when pressing a key. In contrast, the Poro’s 3.7 mm travel distance caters to those seeking quicker response times, which can be particularly beneficial for gamers who prefer faster actuation. As shorter travel distances become more popular, the Poro may provide an edge for users prioritizing responsiveness. Ultimately, the key choice hinges on personal preference, with the Mannan Pipefish being the longer option and the Poro offering a more rapid touch.
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 HMX Poro has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Poro for $2.99.
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 sound profile of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is characterized as neutral, making it versatile for various settings, whether at home or in an office. This means it produces a moderate sound level that won’t be too distracting or bothersome, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned typists alike. On the other hand, the HMX Poro linear switch offers a notably poppy and clacky sound profile, likely adding a bit more character to your typing experience. However, it’s essential to remember that the overall sound can also be affected by factors such as the keyboard plate and keycap material, which means the true auditory experience could vary depending on the build you choose.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish provides an easy-to-press experience thanks to its light 45g actuation force and polished finish. This allows for effortless keystrokes and minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for long typing sessions. Additionally, the refined feel translates to smooth key travel due to reduced friction. In comparison, the HMX Poro linear switch is meticulously lubricated, suggesting a similarly smooth experience aimed at providing an effortless glide. However, specific descriptors for the Poro's feel are not provided, which leaves its exact typing experience somewhat open to interpretation.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and HMX Poro linear switches offer their unique advantages. The Mannan Pipefish is more neutral in sound and comfortable in feel, making it a great choice for both casual and more serious typists who prioritize a gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Poro's poppy and clacky sound adds a bit of flair, while its lubricated design promises a smooth feel as well. Overall, while the two switches cater to slightly different preferences in sound and character, both aim to enhance the typing experience with smooth action and minimal resistance, appealing to those who desire a gratifying keyboard journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Poro linear switches, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a soft and strain-free typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be an excellent choice. Its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, combined with its polished, easy-to-press feel, make it ideal for extended typing sessions, whether for casual use at home or professional tasks in an office. The neutral sound profile will also suit you if you're concerned about noise levels in shared spaces. Conversely, if you enjoy a slight tactile feedback and a more pronounced sound, the HMX Poro switches with their 50g force and meticulously lubricated design will provide you with a more engaging typing experience. Their silky smooth keystrokes and satisfying auditory feedback are perfect for those who appreciate a bit of character in their typing sound. Ultimately, your choice will boil down to how you prioritize typing comfort and sound preferences, with each switch offering unique benefits tailored to different styles.
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