KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are different options available to suit individual preferences. Two switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, offer distinct features for different typing experiences. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth action, lengthened spring, and light actuation and bottom-out force, it provides comfortable and precise typing, making it ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a tactile switch that offers a medium-high level of tactility. Its two-staged spring provides a satisfying feedback and deep, resonating thocks when typing. It delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound, with sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped keypresses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. Both switches benefit from these qualities, providing users with an enhanced auditory experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Mannan Pipefish features nylon, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Mannan Pipefish gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring aligns with the sharper and crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate material. It contributes to an overall clearer and more resonant sound experience.
When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's qualities will be felt, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. The materials used in the bottom housings play a significant role in shaping these characteristics. Conversely, upon releasing a key, the top housing comes into play, dictating the sound produced. Both the Mannan Pipefish and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring benefit from the unique qualities of their respective top housings, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switches.
In summary, the Mannan Pipefish and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In contrast, the Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing adds to its clear and resonant sound profile. The choice of housing materials in these switches influences the sound when pressing down and releasing keys. While they share similarities in using polycarbonate in the top housing, their contrasting bottom housings provide distinct auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be the better choice as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. This lighter weight allows for longer typing periods, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. With its medium actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a stronger push and a more satisfying typing experience.
It is important to note that while the forces of these switches differ, they both offer a tactile feel. The Mannan Pipefish provides linear feedback, whereas the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a tactile bump during actuation. So, although the actuation and bottom out forces may vary, users can expect similar results in terms of tactile feedback from both switches. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing weight and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether for home or work environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch has a clacky sound profile. When pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It also has a high-pitched sound, which provides a sharp and crisp sound experience. If you prefer a switch with a rich and bassy sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring is a great choice.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It has a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate the switch. This results in effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. It offers reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a range of tactile qualities. It has a sharp tactile bump, providing high feedback intensity. The bump can be felt distinctly with each keypress. It is also described as accented, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Shadow (Ink) switch is snappy and super responsive due to longer or dual-staged springs, making the typing experience feel more alive. It also offers a bouncy and stepped feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Mannan Pipefish provides effortless typing with its smooth linear action, light actuation force, and polished finish. It is perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a medium-high level of tactility with its sharp tactile bump and various other qualities. It provides deep, resonating thocks when typing and is suitable for those seeking a tactile typing experience. While they differ in sound and feel, both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences. The choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference and the typing experience desired.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, the choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a lighter actuation force and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the ideal choice for you. With its light 45g bottom-out force and easy-to-press feel, it offers a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey, making it perfect for casual typists who want a delightful typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the way to go. Its sharp and crisp tactile bump offers a high feedback intensity, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the longer dual-staged spring in the Shadow switch variant delivers a snappy and responsive typing experience, contributing to the switch's distinct sound profile characterized by deep, resonating thocks.
Considering sound, the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of uses and environments. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound when pressed, which can add a crisp and bright element to your typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for being easy to press, with minimal resistance and an enhanced typing feel. Its polished finish ensures smooth key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is described as sharp and accented, providing a distinct tactile feedback with each keypress. Additionally, it has a bouncy and stepped feel, giving you a lively sensation and the ability to feel both pre-travel and post-travel.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is your best bet. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with pronounced tactility and a snappy feel, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch is the ideal choice. Consider your personal preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and overall feel to make the decision that will enhance your typing journey.
Mentioned in this article
