KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Mannan Pipefish is praised for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, thanks to its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This switch is perfect for casual typists looking for a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a distinct typing experience with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. With a rich and satisfying typing experience, this switch is ideal for those who appreciate a thocky and bouncy feel. 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
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Sky V4, we see some similarities in the use of nylon for the bottom housing of both switches. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound overall, providing a unique typing experience for users of both switches. While the top housing of the Mannan Pipefish features polycarbonate, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Sky V4 utilizes POK material, known for its smoothness and durability. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials.
One notable difference between the two switches is the choice of top housing material. The Mannan Pipefish stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Sky V4's POK material. Polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK material offers exceptional smoothness and durability, with wear resistance surpassing materials like POM and shock resistance exceeding Nylon. These contrasting characteristics in the top housing material contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of each switch.
Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on them. While both the Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Sky V4 utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they diverge in their choice of top housing material. The Mannan Pipefish's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper sound profile, while the Sky V4's POK material offers smoothness and durability. Despite these differences, the overall goal of enhancing the typing experience is evident in both switches through the careful selection of housing materials to create unique and enjoyable typing experiences.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is lighter than the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Mannan Pipefish is better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a slightly heavier feel, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, and users can expect similar results in terms of performance, with the main difference being the slightly lighter feel of the Mannan Pipefish compared to the Sky V4.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mannan Pipefish offering a slightly deeper keypress experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Mannan Pipefish. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and how each individual user values keypress depth versus rapid responsiveness.
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 Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
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 Mannan Pipefish linear switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate and versatile auditory experience suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch presents a thocky sound, known for its deep and satisfying undertones that add a pleasing auditory dimension to typing sessions. Depending on personal preference, typists may find the neutral sound of the Mannan Pipefish more universal, while those seeking a richer sound experience may prefer the thocky sound of the Sky V4.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mannan Pipefish switch boasts an easy-to-press design, providing minimal resistance for effortless typing that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing overall comfort and responsiveness. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy feel, giving typists a spring-like feedback sensation that adds liveliness to key presses. Depending on individual typing preferences, users may gravitate towards the gentle and polished feel of the Mannan Pipefish or the energetic bounce of the Sky V4.
In conclusion, both the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish excels in providing a neutral sound profile and an easy-to-press, polished typing experience suited for casual typists seeking comfort and precision. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy key feel, appealing to those who enjoy a deeper sound and lively feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound aesthetics and typing feel, with both options offering a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a light and effortless typing experience with a comfortable actuation force, the Mannan Pipefish switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper sound profile and a unique typing feel with a medium-light actuation force, the Sky V4 switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing comfort and sound aesthetics.
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