KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. KTT Purple Click
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Purple Click switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in search of the perfect mechanical keyboard switch that will provide you with an unparalleled and enjoyable typing experience? Look no further, as we present to you two exceptional options to consider - the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Purple Click switches. The Mannan Pipefish boasts a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, ensuring a comfortable and precise typing journey. This switch is ideal for casual typists who seek a delightful and strain-free keyboarding experience. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch, also known as Purple Sauce, offers a fairly high-pitched and satisfying click. It combines light keystrokes with a pronounced tactility that strikes the perfect equilibrium, without overwhelming the user. Categorized as crunchy, invigorating, resonant, and stepped, the Purple Click switch is a fantastic choice for those who crave an invigorating and responsive typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and KTT Purple Click have similar housing materials in terms of their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to be showcased effectively due to its translucency. So, if you are looking for a switch with a clear housing and plan to use RGB lighting, both the Mannan Pipefish and Purple Click would provide similar results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ in their material choice. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, while the Purple Click also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Both switches capitalize on the classic switch housing material of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches.
Due to the distinct housing materials used, the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the bottom and top of the switches. Pressing down on these switches will allow you to feel the impact and experience the sound profile influenced by the bottom housing. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the top housing material. This differentiation highlights the importance of both the top and bottom housing in creating the overall typing experience of these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Purple Click's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Mannan Pipefish is also lighter at 45 grams, while the Purple Click has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be the ideal choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are both on the lighter side. This would allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a stronger push, the Purple Click offers a medium-light actuation force and a heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity while typing.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and typing style. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Mannan Pipefish, while those seeking a more tactile and robust experience may lean towards the Purple Click. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a customized typing experience for the user.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Purple Click clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and tactile sensation when typing, allowing for a satisfying keystroke experience. Whether you choose the Mannan Pipefish or the Purple Click, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. Neither one is shorter or longer than the other, as they have identical travel distances.
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 Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 Purple Click clicky switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a clean and moderate sound. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch has a crunchy and resonant sound profile. It is associated with clicky switches and offers a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. It also has a stepped design, providing mild pre-travel and/or post-travel compared to hypertactile switches.
Considering the available information, the Mannan Pipefish switch and the Purple Click switch offer different experiences. The Mannan Pipefish switch provides an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action and light actuation force, making it perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the Purple Click switch offers a satisfying click and a tactile experience without overwhelming the user.
If you are looking for a neutral switch with a moderate sound profile and easy-to-press feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is a suitable choice. If you prefer a clicky switch with an invigorating and crunchy sound profile, along with a snappy and reactive feel, the Purple Click switch would be the ideal option. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of both switches can further be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are a casual typist seeking a delightful and strain-free typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, easy-to-press keys, and smooth linear action, you can expect an effortless and precise typing journey. This switch also offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, whether you are using it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, the KTT Purple Click clicky switch is the way to go. With its medium-light 55g bottom-out force, this switch provides a satisfying high-pitched click without being overwhelming. It offers a snappy and reactive feel, creating an immersive typing experience. The Purple Click also has a crunchy and resonant sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves, adding a touch of excitement to your typing sessions.
Ultimately, your choice between the Mannan Pipefish and Purple Click hinges on your personal preferences. If you value comfort, precision, and a neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish is the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you seek a more invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and a crunchy, resonant sound, the Purple Click is the switch for you. Consider your typing style and preferences when making your decision and enjoy the journey of finding the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
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