KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Everglide Sakura Pink, both of which are linear switches. The Mannan Pipefish is hailed for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, thanks to its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This switch is perfect for casual typists looking for a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are renowned for their super light 35g actuation force, ideal for delicate typists. These switches offer a gliding type feel and frictionless operation, delivering a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, the Sakura Pinks also produce a cheerful sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. Each switch has its own set of characteristics, catering to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Everglide Sakura Pink both utilize polycarbonate top housings. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. Therefore, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Sakura Pink will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
Where the two switches differ is in the material of their bottom housings. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, while the Sakura Pink utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon as a housing material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Sakura Pink's bottom housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. This divergence leads to a distinction in the sound and feel when bottoming-out the keys between the two switches.
However, regardless of the bottom housing material, the impact of the top housing remains significant for both switches. Pressing down on a key will be influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing a key will be shaped by the top housing. Therefore, users can expect a difference in the typing experience depending on the switch's housing materials, but both the Mannan Pipefish and the Sakura Pink will provide satisfactory results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, which means that they require the same amount of force to fully press the keys down. However, the KTT Mannan Pipefish has a slightly higher actuation force of 37 grams, while the Everglide Sakura Pink has a slightly lower actuation force of 35 grams.
In terms of weight, both switches can be considered light. This lighter weight can be beneficial for those who prefer typing for extended periods of time, such as for work or long gaming sessions. It allows for a smoother typing experience with less fatigue. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch have similar bottom out forces. The Mannan Pipefish requires a slightly higher actuation force, while the Sakura Pink requires a slightly lower actuation force. Both switches are light in weight, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch 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 movement. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback with their identical travel distance, allowing for efficient and comfortable typing experiences. Whether you choose the KTT Mannan Pipefish or the Everglide Sakura Pink, you can expect similar results in terms of 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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 Mannan Pipefish switch is considered neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced typists in various settings such as home or work. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch is described as muted. Muted switches produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It has a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Similarly, the Sakura Pink switch provides a buttery and creamy typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, allowing for seamless and effortless typing. The switch feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the Sakura Pink switch is also described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and a light actuation force for a responsive and low-impact typing feel. It is also labeled as frictionless, ensuring an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Everglide Sakura Pink switches offer excellent subjective qualities for typing. The Mannan Pipefish switch provides a comfortable and precise typing experience with its smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and easy-to-press feel. Similarly, the Sakura Pink switch offers a delightful, poppy sound reminiscent of popping bubble wrap, while also providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with its buttery, creamy feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, allowing newcomers to find a switch that suits their needs. Whether you prefer a neutral sound and polished feel (Mannan Pipefish) or a muted sound and frictionless feel (Sakura Pink), you can expect similar results in terms of enjoying a strain-free and enjoyable typing journey.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking an effortless and enjoyable typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is an excellent choice. With a light 45g bottom out force, this switch provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. It offers a smooth, easy-to-press feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user.
On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter switch, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is a great option. With a feather-light 35g actuation force, it is perfect for delicate typists looking for a low-impact typing feel. The Sakura Pink switch offers a smooth and frictionless typing experience, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. It produces a muted sound, minimizing any noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
Ultimately, the choice between the Mannan Pipefish and Sakura Pink switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a slightly firmer typing feel and a neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish is the way to go. However, if you prefer an ultra-light and buttery typing experience with a quieter sound, the Sakura Pink switch is the better option. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will enhance your overall typing experience.
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