KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch, and the TTC Silent Brown, a tactile switch. The Mannan Pipefish is known for its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience. This switch is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Silent Brown tactile switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. What sets these switches apart is their muted sound profile, making them perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
63.5g
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
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
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Silent Brown switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness and resonance of polycarbonate. Additionally, it boasts translucency, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, these two switches differ. The Mannan Pipefish adopts a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the Silent Brown opt for a nylon bottom housing as well, implying that users will also experience the same qualities in terms of sound. This means that both switches will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, albeit with slightly different characteristics due to the switch design.
When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's qualities become more noticeable. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the tactile feedback and overall typing experience. However, when releasing a key, the top housing takes the spotlight, influencing the sound produced. In this regard, despite their different internal components, both switches offer a clear distinction between pressing and releasing a key, making them suitable for users looking for distinct auditory feedback during typing.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and TTC Silent Brown switches share a similar polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, perfect for RGB lighting enthusiasts. However, they differ in their nylon bottom housing, with both resulting in a deep and full sound profile but with slight variations. Regardless, users can expect these switches to offer a clear differentiation between key press and release, ensuring an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, meaning less pressure is needed to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Brown requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that users seeking a lighter, more effortless typing experience may prefer the Mannan Pipefish, while those who prefer a slightly stronger push feel may opt for the Silent Brown.
In terms of bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is the same as its actuation force. This indicates that the switch does not require additional force after actuation to fully press the key. On the other hand, the Silent Brown has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, suggesting that users will need to exert more pressure to fully depress the keys.
Considering weight, it is worth noting that the Mannan Pipefish is lighter in terms of actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Silent Brown. This lighter weight may be preferred by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it can help reduce fatigue. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the heavier forces of the Silent Brown may be more suitable.
Overall, while the Mannan Pipefish and Silent Brown differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, they both provide options for users with different preferences. Whether one seeks a lighter or heavier key press, there are clear choices available to accommodate those needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Silent Brown's 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional standards, the Mannan Pipefish falls within the typical range of 4.0 mm, while the Silent Brown is slightly shallower at 3.8 mm. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, opting for the Silent Brown with its shorter travel distance may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a deeper and more substantial key press may lean towards the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches boils down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
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 Brown 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 Brown for $5.00.
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 is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as having a muted sound profile. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular mechanical switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Overall, the Mannan Pipefish and the Silent Brown offer different sound profiles, with the Mannan Pipefish being more neutral and the Silent Brown being more muted.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is described as easy-to-press and polished. This means that it offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force of 45g makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The mild tactile characteristics offer a gentle typing experience, and the polished finish contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with different levels of resistance and tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Mannan Pipefish is best known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, with a smooth linear action, light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, and easy-to-press and polished feel. It offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown provides a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. It has a muted sound profile that minimizes noise. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but the Mannan Pipefish focuses more on smoothness and ease of pressing, while the TTC Silent Brown emphasizes a buttery and mild tactile feel. Regardless of the choice, both switches provide a strain-free and delightful keyboarding journey.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are a casual typist seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, you can experience effortless and enjoyable typing. The Mannan Pipefish offers a comfortable and precise typing experience with its smooth linear action and lengthened spring. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish is described as having a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, providing a sleek and low-impact typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown switch would be a suitable option. The Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience and features a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Silent Brown is described as having a buttery and mild typing sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Similar to the Mannan Pipefish, the Silent Brown also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a strain-free and precise typing experience or a tactile and muted typing sensation, both switches offer their own unique advantages. Consider your typing habits and preferences to make an informed decision.
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