KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Sea Glass are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Mannan Pipefish switch is known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides comfort and precision for casual typists. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series by Durock stands out with its captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, these switches possess a weightlessness that defies expectations, thanks to their frictionless nature. They exude a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness while maintaining uncompromised smoothness. Typing on the Sea Glass switches also reveals a uniquely hollow sound signature. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Sea Glass switches offer unique characteristics and sound profiles. In terms of their top housings, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prioritize a distinct audio experience. Conversely, the Sea Glass features a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, resulting in a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards a brighter tone. Both materials offer the advantage of translucency, allowing for the use of RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Mannan Pipefish employs nylon, a classic switch housing material known for generating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, producing a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Sea Glass's bottom housing is a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE, which provides a unique sound profile that the manufacturer finds pleasant. While not specifically mentioned, it can be inferred that this blend offers a different auditory experience compared to the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing.
When considering the overall impact on the switch, the material used for the top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing more significantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in these switches ensures that each component contributes distinct qualities to the overall typing or gaming experience. Although the specific characteristics of the top and bottom housings differ between the Mannan Pipefish and the Sea Glass, users can expect similar results in terms of their ability to deliver unique sound profiles and contribute to an enjoyable typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are notable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the Sea Glass requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 62 grams, offering a more substantial push feel. For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Mannan Pipefish would be a suitable option, allowing for longer typing sessions and ideal for work or gaming purposes. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch offers a moderate actuation force, providing a stronger push sensation for individuals looking for a more solid typing experience. Overall, while both switches have their own unique forces, those seeking a lighter switch may prefer the Mannan Pipefish, while those desiring a heavier option would find the Sea Glass more suitable.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Glass has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Comparatively, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mannan Pipefish being slightly longer and the Sea Glass slightly shorter.
For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Sea Glass with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. The shorter distance allows for faster response times, which is particularly appealing for gamers and individuals who value quick keystrokes. On the other hand, some may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those seeking a more substantial and deeper typing feel, the Mannan Pipefish with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better option.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and specific needs. Whether opting for a shorter or longer travel distance, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer their own unique benefits and can provide satisfactory typing experiences.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 is renowned for providing an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. It features a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This combination makes it comfortable and precise for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Sea Glass linear switch series by Durock stands out with its captivating selection of five pastel colors. These switches emanate a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness due to their proprietary material blend. However, their smoothness remains uncompromised. Despite the 62g bottom-out force, they possess a weightlessness that defies expectations, showcasing their frictionless nature. Typing on Sea Glass switches also reveals a uniquely hollow sound signature.
In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as having a neutral profile. This means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound. Therefore, it is suitable for most purposes and users, regardless of their skill level or usage environment. The sound of a switch can also vary based on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Sea Glass switch is not provided. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by various factors beyond the switch itself, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It requires minimal force to activate the keys, resulting in a low-impact and effortless typing feel. This feature reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and enhances the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that ensures sleek key travel with reduced friction.
On the other hand, the Sea Glass linear switch provides a frictionless typing experience. It offers an extremely smooth and effortless feel, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Sea Glass switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to most users. It is also considered feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal exertion from the fingers. These characteristics reduce finger fatigue and make it comfortable for extended typing sessions, whether for gaming, school, or work. Furthermore, the Sea Glass switch is also categorized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish and Durock Sea Glass linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Mannan Pipefish switch is known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, with a smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and enhanced comfort. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch series presents a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, while maintaining smoothness and weightlessness. It provides a uniquely hollow sound signature and a frictionless typing experience. If you are seeking a similar typing experience to the Mannan Pipefish switch, the Sea Glass switch may offer comparable qualities such as an easy-to-press feel, reduced friction, and a comfortable typing experience. However, it is important to consider individual preferences and factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps in order to maximize overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is a great choice for you. With its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, and lengthened spring, this switch provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. It is easy to press, offers minimal resistance, and has a polished finish, ensuring a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is the way to go. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, it offers a weightless and frictionless typing feel that defies expectations. The Sea Glass switches have a hollow sound signature and are described as mild, feathery, and easy to press, making them suitable for most typists.
Ultimately, your choice between the Mannan Pipefish and the Sea Glass switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize comfort and precision, go for the Mannan Pipefish. If you crave a one-of-a-kind typing experience with a unique sound and feel, opt for the Durock Sea Glass. Both switches offer their own advantages and will enhance your overall typing experience. So, consider your typing style, preferences, and needs, and choose the switch that aligns with them.
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