KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and Kailh Sage are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch that is best known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force provide a comfortable and precise experience, making it perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free journey. On the other hand, the Sage is a clicky switch that offers a distinct typing experience. Known for its heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness, the Sage switch provides an invigorating and crunchy feel to every keystroke. While both switches have their merits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh Sage both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material creates a similar effect for both switches, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of both switches. Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches ensures a consistent and satisfying sound experience.
While their top housings share similarities, the Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh Sage differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Sage also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar effect of a deeper and fuller sound profile. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Therefore, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with the help of their nylon bottom housing.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of these switches, the combination of top and bottom housing materials plays a crucial role. While the Mannan Pipefish and the Kailh Sage share the advantages of a polycarbonate top housing, their differing bottom housing materials create distinctive qualities. The impact of the bottom housing is felt when key presses result in a bottom-out sound and feel, influenced by the nylon material. Conversely, the top housing material, also polycarbonate for both switches, affects the sound when releasing a key. As a result, the choice of materials for each housing component gives these switches unique characteristics, providing users with a range of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, several notable differences emerge. The Mannan Pipefish boasts a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, while its bottom out force measures slightly higher at 45 grams. In contrast, the Sage's actuation force is currently unknown, therefore making it difficult to assess its lightness or heaviness in this regard. However, it is worth noting that the Sage does have a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy resistance. Taking weight into consideration, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may find the Mannan Pipefish more suitable, whether for work or gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who favor a more substantial and forceful keystroke may lean towards the Sage, with its potentially heavier actuation force and definite medium-heavy bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish has a longer travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6mm.
Traditionally, a travel distance of 4.0mm is considered standard, providing a nice balance of depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Sage's shorter travel distance of 3.6mm is more suitable for those seeking faster response times, which is particularly favored by gamers.
Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference. If you prioritize a quick and responsive feel, the Sage with its shorter travel distance would be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance would be the more suitable choice.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 per 10 switches.
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 provides a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. It is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and can be used at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy sound. This type of sound is commonly associated with clicky switches and is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. So, while the Mannan Pipefish provides a neutral sound, the Sage offers a distinctive crunchy sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. These switches have 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. Furthermore, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch provides an invigorating feel. It offers pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive sensation. The Sage switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each and every keypress. So, while the Mannan Pipefish delivers an easy-to-press and polished feel, the Sage provides an invigorating and sharp tactile experience.
Overall, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish provides a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press feel with a polished finish, resulting in a comfortable and precise typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage offers a crunchy sound and an invigorating feel with a sharp tactile bump, creating a distinct and immersive typing sensation. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these switches. If you enjoy a moderate sound and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be a great choice. If you prefer a distinctive clicky sound and a responsive, tactile typing feel, the Kailh Sage would suit your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lightweight and effortless typing experience, with smooth and low-impact key presses, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be an excellent choice. Its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, combined with its easy-to-press and polished feel, make it perfect for casual typists seeking comfort and precision.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more pronounced and invigorating typing sensation, with a sharp tactile feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force, the Kailh Sage switch would be the better option. Its weightier 70g bottom-out force, along with its sharp and invigorating feel, provide a refreshingly clicky typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a neutral sound profile and a smooth typing feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a crunchy sound and a sharp tactile feedback, the Kailh Sage switch will meet your needs.
In conclusion, carefully consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience. Whether you opt for the Mannan Pipefish or the Kailh Sage, both of these switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your keyboarding journey.
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