KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch, known for providing an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a comfortable and precise typing journey, making it a great choice for casual typists. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is a tactile switch that appeals to those who desire both a tactile feel and a silenced switch. It is perfect for noise-sensitive environments with its medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. While the Mannan Pipefish emphasizes an easy-to-press and neutral experience, the Silent T1 offers stepped and accented tactility. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Yes
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Consequently, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches' polycarbonate top housing.
However, the main point of divergence lies in their nylon bottom housing. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This absorption leads to a duller and rounder sound, which enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) also features a nylon bottom housing, producing a similar result in terms of sound. The use of nylon in both switches' bottom housing emphasizes a more satisfying and immersive typing experience.
It is essential to note that the split between the top and bottom housings affects the overall qualities of each switch. When pressing down on a key, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing, which contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will have more influence from the top housing. Thus, while both switches showcase similar attributes in their housing materials, the specific placement of these materials within the switch structure will impact the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. In contrast, the actuation force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) is currently unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams of force to fully press down, providing a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial and sturdy feel.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it enables them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This lighter option is ideal for those who use their keyboards for work or indulge in prolonged gaming sessions. On the contrary, there are users who appreciate a stronger actuation force to enhance the typing experience. For these users, opting for switches with heavier forces is recommended.
In terms of weight, the Mannan Pipefish can be considered lighter than the Silent T1 (Shrimp). However, it should be noted that these switches provide different tactile experiences due to their linear and tactile characteristics respectively. Therefore, while similar typing results can be achieved in terms of weight, the overall feel and feedback may differ between the two switches.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. The travel distance of 4 mm is relatively standard in mechanical keyboard switches and provides a satisfying amount of key travel for typing or gaming. Therefore, whether you choose the Mannan Pipefish or the Silent T1, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.
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 Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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. This means that it produces a moderate level of sound, making it suitable for most purposes. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced typist, or if you plan to use the keyboard at home or work, the Mannan Pipefish switch will deliver a satisfying sound experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as producing a muted sound. This means that it is softer and quieter compared to a regular switch, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience. This means that it requires minimal force to activate, offering gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force contributes to effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch provides a stepped feel. This means that it has a two-stage tactile feedback, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This gives a more mild tactile sensation compared to hypertactile switches, providing a prominent amount of tactility without overwhelming or subtlety. Similar to the Mannan Pipefish switch, the Durock Silent T1 also boasts a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a delightful and strain-free typing experience with its smooth linear action and easy-to-press feel. It provides a neutral sound profile that suits most purposes. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch offers both a tactile and silenced experience, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It delivers a stepped feel with medium bump tactility and a muted sound. Both switches provide a polished typing experience with reduced friction. Depending on your preferences and specific needs, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with these two switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist seeking a strain-free and delightful keyboarding experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is a great choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch offers easy-to-press keys that require minimal force to activate. The smooth linear action and lengthened spring provide a comfortable and precise typing experience. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or work.
On the other hand, if you desire both a tactile switch and a quieter typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the perfect choice. With a medium bump and padded bottom-out feel, this switch offers a more noticeable level of tactility without being overwhelming. It is also ideal for noise-sensitive environments, thanks to its muted sound profile. You can expect a softer and quieter typing experience with the Silent T1 switch.
In general, if you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bump and a subdued audio feedback, along with a quieter typing experience, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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