KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, you have two compelling options to consider. The Mannan Pipefish offers a smooth linear action, a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, and a lengthened spring for a comfortable and precise typing experience. Perfect for casual typists looking for a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches boast exceptionally bright and clacky characteristics, with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation ideal for users seeking an energetic and responsive typing experience. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Mannan Pipefish and the Jerrzi Salt Ice both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This material is especially useful for switches that will be paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material will impact the overall typing experience on each switch, with the Mannan Pipefish likely providing a more satisfying bottom-out sound and feel.
Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials highlight how material choice can affect the sound and feel of a switch. The Jerrzi Salt Ice's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing results in a sharper and more resonant sound profile overall, while the Mannan Pipefish's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a more balanced sound profile with deeper tones. This showcases how varying housing materials can impact not only the sound but also the overall typing experience on a mechanical keyboard.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in determining the final sound and typing feel of the switch. While both the Mannan Pipefish and the Jerrzi Salt Ice utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch determines the overall typing experience and can cater to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that the Mannan Pipefish is lighter in both aspects. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Salt Ice has an actuation force of 45 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Mannan Pipefish may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Salt Ice may appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with different preferences.
Travel distance
The Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Jerrzi Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance compared to the Mannan Pipefish. The Mannan Pipefish with the longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth when typing, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice with the shorter travel distance may offer a quicker response time, which can be preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels more comfortable for the individual user. Both options offer different benefits, so choosing the right one depends on what the user is looking for in terms of typing experience.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which means it offers a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch does not have a specific sound description provided, so it may offer a different auditory experience. When considering sound, it's important to remember that the overall sound of a switch is influenced by various factors, such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This feature makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch in terms of feel.
Overall, both the Mannan Pipefish and Jerrzi Salt Ice switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Mannan Pipefish excels in providing a comfortable and precise typing experience with its light actuation force and smooth linear action, the Salt Ice switch stands out for its bright and clacky characteristics, promising an energetic and responsive typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a light touch, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. Its 45g actuation force and linear action provide a comfortable and precise typing journey, perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is the ideal choice. Its energetic and responsive characteristics make it a standout option for users looking for a more dynamic typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
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