KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that provide different typing experiences are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Silent Bluish White. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch, known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and precise typing journey, making it perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. With its medium tactility, it provides a precise and comfortable typing experience. What sets it apart is its quietness, as these switches are specifically designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living spaces. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision on the switch that suits your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Silent Bluish White both feature polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a similar result in terms of sound production. The use of polycarbonate in the housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, both switches provide a visually appealing option for users who prioritize aesthetics and desire a vibrant key lighting experience.
On the other hand, the housing materials for the bottom of the switches differ. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Bluish White also utilizes nylon. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon. Nylon has the ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a more muffled and subdued sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings.
It is important to note that the different materials used for the top and bottom housings of a switch will impact the overall sound and feel differently. The bottom housing, such as the nylon bottom housing in both switches, will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed down. In contrast, the top housing, which in both switches is made of polycarbonate, will influence the sound when the key is released after being pressed. Therefore, while the two switches have similarities in terms of housing materials, the distribution of these materials will result in varying tactile and auditory experiences for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are a few notable similarities and differences. Firstly, in terms of weight, both switches offer lighter options, which may be preferable for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. However, it is important to note that the Mannan Pipefish is lighter, with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, compared to the Silent Bluish White's actuation force of 42 grams and bottom out force of 50 grams.
Both switches provide a smooth and comfortable typing experience, but the Mannan Pipefish requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White offers a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may find more substantial and satisfying. These differences in force can affect the overall typing experience and the feedback received from each switch.
In conclusion, while both switches have a similar light weight, the Mannan Pipefish is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. Therefore, those seeking a softer and more sensitive typing experience may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, whereas users who prefer a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel might find the Silent Bluish White to be a better fit.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Bluish White. The Mannan Pipefish is closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Silent Bluish White is on the shorter side at 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the switch with the longer travel distance. In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish and the Silent Bluish White offer different travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs for keyboard users.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 can be classified as a neutral switch, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It is not excessively loud and can be used in both home and work environments. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch is described as a muted switch, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. These switches are designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It has a light actuation force, requiring minimal force to activate the key, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing. This switch is designed to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Furthermore, the Mannan Pipefish switch can be considered polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke, allowing for seamless and effortless typing. These switches have a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable for most typists. Additionally, the Silent Bluish White switch can also be described as stepped, meaning it provides a tactile feedback with two stages. This gives the user a sense of pre-travel and/or post-travel during key presses. Similar to the Mannan Pipefish, the Silent Bluish White switch is also considered polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer unique qualities to enhance the typing experience. The Mannan Pipefish provides a smooth and effortless typing feel with a neutral sound profile suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a buttery and mild typing experience with reduced noise, making it ideal for office or shared living spaces. Despite their differences, both switches feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound and feel desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. It offers a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, making it perfect for casual typists who want a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a satisfying level of resistance, the TTC Silent Bluish White is the better choice. It has a medium tactile feel that provides a precise and comfortable typing experience. Additionally, it is designed to be as quiet as possible, making it ideal for office or shared living space use. Ultimately, whether you prioritize the feel or the sound of the switch, both options have their unique advantages.
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