KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HC Studio Roselle both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Mannan Pipefish is lauded for its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation force, and comfortable typing experience, making it an excellent choice for casual typists looking for a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its remarkably smooth feel without the need for additional lubrication, accompanied by a subtle, low-pitched sound signature. While the Mannan Pipefish is characterized by being 'Easy-to-press', 'Neutral', and 'Polished', the Roselle is labeled as 'Bassy', 'Frictionless', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', and 'Neutral'. 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
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HC Studio Roselle, we find that they both offer unique sound profiles but through different materials. The Mannan Pipefish uses polycarbonate for its top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Roselle utilizes POM for its top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches aim to enhance the overall sound quality through their distinct housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Mannan Pipefish incorporates nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Roselle also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, offering a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in material, both switches prioritize sound quality by selecting housing materials that absorb and enhance sound in their own distinct ways, adding depth and richness to the typing experience.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials differ between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HC Studio Roselle, they both work towards improving the sound profile of the switches in their own unique manner. The split between the qualities of polycarbonate and POM materials in the top and bottom housing allows for a balanced sound experience when typing, combining sharpness and depth to create a harmonious sound profile. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper tones of POM, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires a lighter 45 grams compared to the Roselle's 52 grams. Both switches fall within the light to medium-light range in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better option, while the Roselle offers a bit more resistance for those who prefer a slightly heavier feel. Regardless of the specific force differences, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Mannan Pipefish offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for some users. On the other hand, the Roselle offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more popular among gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness. Both switches offer different travel distances, but they both provide quality performance in their own right.
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 HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 linear switch is considered neutral, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound signature, providing a deeper and richer typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound depth and tone, you can choose between the neutral sound of the Mannan Pipefish or the bass-heavy sound of the Roselle.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for being easy-to-press and polished, offering a gentle resistance and smooth key travel for a comfortable and refined typing experience. In comparison, the HC Studio Roselle linear switch is recognized for being frictionless and mild, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing feel that is approachable to most users. Whether you prefer a light and polished typing experience or a frictionless and mild feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Overall, while the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Roselle linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and typing feels, they both aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users. Depending on whether you prioritize sound depth or smooth key travel, you can choose between the neutral and easy-to-press qualities of the Mannan Pipefish or the bassy and frictionless characteristics of the Roselle. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and precise typing action for users to enjoy.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value effortless and light typing with a comfortable feel, the Mannan Pipefish with its 45g bottom out force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer an impossibly smooth and bassy typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Roselle switch with its 52g bottom out force would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize light and precise typing or an ultra-smooth and rich sound profile when selecting your ideal mechanical keyboard switch.
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