KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie offer distinct experiences despite both being linear switches. The Mannan Pipefish is celebrated for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, featuring a light 45g actuation force and a longer spring that promise a comfortable, strain-free journey for casual typists. This switch is categorized as easy-to-press, neutral, and polished, catering to users who prioritize ease and smoothness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie provides a medium-weight feel that delivers a satisfying thocky sound profile alongside exceptional smoothness, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with their typing. While both switches prioritize smooth action, their differing characteristics cater to different typing preferences and needs. 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
48g
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
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, we see distinct characteristics in their top housings that lead to varying sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This quality enhances its resonance, making it particularly appealing for those who value clarity in their auditory experience. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie's top housing is made from POM, which lends itself to a uniquely muted and deeper sound. While both materials serve to enclose the switch's mechanics, the polycarbonate tends to favor a brighter expression, whereas POM encapsulates a more subdued tonal quality.
Looking at the bottom housings, there are similarities between the Mannan Pipefish's nylon housing and the Sea Salt Smoothie's POM housing, though each material results in different auditory experiences. The nylon employed in the Mannan Pipefish's bottom housing absorbs sound, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile, which adds warmth to the overall typing experience. Meanwhile, the POM bottom housing of the Sea Salt Smoothie similarly creates a deeper sound but emphasizes a distinctively rich and muted tone. Both materials excel in delivering a rounded feel under the fingers, but while nylon can offer a more classic switch experience, POM brings its own unique flavor to the acoustic environment.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials distinguishes the performance and feel of each switch, even within different aspects of sound and aesthetics. For users looking for a sharper and more resonant sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the KTT Mannan Pipefish shines brightly, particularly with RGB lighting. Conversely, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie would suit those who prefer a deep, muted experience overall. However, both switches have a stronger influence from their bottom housing regarding the bottom-out experience. Despite their differences, careful selection can allow users to tailor their typing experience to match personal preferences, celebrating the distinct nuances of these varied housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch to the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, providing a softer typing experience that can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Sea Salt Smoothie has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams, catering to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. While the bottom out force for the Mannan Pipefish is measured at 45 grams, offering a definitive feedback when keys are pressed all the way down, the bottom out force for the Sea Salt Smoothie remains unknown. This uncertainty makes it difficult to directly compare their bottom-out experiences. Ultimately, users seeking a lightweight option may gravitate towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those who appreciate a heavier switch may find the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, there is a notable difference in their specifications. The Mannan Pipefish features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sea Salt Smoothie has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Sea Salt Smoothie the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times due to its abbreviated distance. Conversely, the Mannan Pipefish offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press that some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference: those who enjoy a more responsive feel might lean towards the Sea Salt Smoothie, while those who appreciate a deeper key press may opt for the Mannan Pipefish.
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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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
The sound profile of the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is characterized as neutral, meaning it offers a moderate sound that fits well in various environments, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. This neutral sound allows it to blend seamlessly in a home office or at work, providing a balanced auditory experience without being overly intrusive. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie, while its sound characteristics aren't specified, is known to have a thocky sound profile, suggesting that it produces a deeper, more resonant tone when pressed. This thocky sound may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback during typing but would require proper board and keycap pairing for optimal sound.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish excels with its easy-to-press design, providing a gentle resistance that results in an effortless typing experience. Its light 45g actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it a great choice for those who spend extended periods typing. The polished nature of the switch promises smooth key travel, contributing to a refined overall experience. On the other hand, the qualities of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie regarding its feel are currently unknown. However, given Gateron's reputation for providing high-quality switches, it is likely that the Sea Salt Smoothie offers a satisfying tactile experience, potentially appealing to users looking for an enjoyable typing sensation.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and user-friendly feel, making it ideal for those prioritizing comfort during their typing sessions. The Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie boasts a distinctive thocky sound, which may cater to users wanting a more impactful auditory experience. Both switches promise smoothness, but while the Mannan Pipefish is clearly defined in its attributes, the feel of the Sea Salt Smoothie remains undetermined. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate the right choice, and trying both may lead to a satisfying keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a light touch and seamless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is your ideal match. Its easy-to-press action and smooth, polished feel make it a delightful option for casual typists, especially during long typing sessions where finger fatigue can be a concern. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that balances medium weight with a satisfying sound profile while maintaining smoothness, the Sea Salt Smoothie could be the better choice. While its exact bottom-out force is unknown, Gateron switches are renowned for their quality, and the thocky sound delivered by the Sea Salt Smoothie may enhance your typing experience, particularly in environments where auditory feedback is appreciated. In the end, consider whether you lean towards effortless typing with minimal resistance or prefer a moderately weighted switch that doesn't compromise on sound and smoothness, and you’ll make the right decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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