KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between different styles and characteristics that suit their typing preferences. The KTT Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless typing experience with its light 45g actuation force and smooth linear action, making it an excellent choice for casual typists who value comfort and a strain-free experience during prolonged use. Its enhanced design features a lengthened spring that contributes to a polished feel, ensuring that every keystroke feels precise and satisfying. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch presents a unique appeal with its full PA12 housing and T5 stem, delivering a subtly deep sound profile that enhances the auditory feedback of each keystroke. While both switches are linear and designed for smooth operation, the Mannan Pipefish emphasizes lightness and ease of use, appealing to those who prefer a more effortless typing feel, whereas the HMX SU caters to users who appreciate a richer acoustic 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
50g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX SU display a notable contrast in their choice of top housing materials. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is characterized by its rigidity and stiffness, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material promotes a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, enhancing the overall typing feedback, especially beneficial for users who favor a crisper sound. In contrast, the HMX SU is equipped with a nylon top housing, a classic choice that results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the Mannan Pipefish's characteristics. Thus, while both switches deliver unique auditory feedback, they appeal to different preferences based on the acoustic qualities brought by their respective top housing materials.
When examining the bottom housing of both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX SU, similarities emerge as both switches employ nylon for this component. Nylon’s inherent qualities produce a deeper and fuller sound profile in both models, as it absorbs sound and tends to mitigate any sharpness that might come from a harder material. This shared use of nylon ensures that both switches deliver a consistent experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel, regardless of the distinctions found in their top housings. Here, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the overall auditory experience while typing, showcasing the importance of housing material even when different materials are used for the top housing.
Ultimately, the contrasting top housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX SU lead to differing sound experiences, while their comparable bottom housings unify the overall auditory profiles to some extent. Users who prefer the sharper, crisper sound provided by polycarbonate will lean towards the Mannan Pipefish, whereas those who enjoy a deeper, more rounded auditory experience will find favor with the HMX SU’s nylon top. Nevertheless, both switches offer a consistent feel and sound quality due to the shared nylon bottom housing, ensuring a congruous typing experience despite the differing acoustic elements provided by the top materials. In leveraging these housing combinations, both switches cater to diverse user preferences while still maintaining certain sound signature similarities.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which directly influences their typing experience. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the HMX SU requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while both switches are considered light, the Mannan Pipefish offers an easier keystroke activation and a softer bottoming out feeling, making it more suitable for those who type for extended periods or prefer a less taxing experience. Conversely, the HMX SU, with its heavier forces, may provide a more substantial push feel, catering to users who appreciate a firmer response in their typing experience. Ultimately, those seeking lightweight switches may gravitate towards the Mannan Pipefish, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance might prefer the HMX SU.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance may significantly affect the feel and responsiveness of the switches, with the Mannan Pipefish providing a more substantial depth during key presses. This may appeal to those who prefer a more traditional and hearty typing experience. In contrast, the HMX SU, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers and others who prioritize quicker response times in their keyboard performance. Consequently, if you favor a snappier action, the HMX SU would be the better choice, whereas those who appreciate a deeper press might lean towards the Mannan Pipefish. Overall, while both switches have their unique benefits, the Mannan Pipefish is the longer option at 4 mm, and the HMX SU is the shorter one at 3.6 mm.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 sound profile of the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch is characterized as neutral, offering a moderate sound that is unobtrusive and suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. This versatility makes it a great choice for typists of all levels, as the auditory feedback it provides will not distract or annoy those around you. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is noted for its subtle, relatively deep sound, thanks to its full PA12 housing and T5 stem. While the exact nuances of the SU's sound profile are not detailed, it can be inferred that users will experience a more pronounced auditory sensation compared to the Mannan Pipefish, which enhances its distinctiveness in the linear switch category.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish excels with its easy-to-press action, requiring minimal force due to its light 45g actuation and bottom-out. This aspect promotes comfort and reduces finger fatigue, making long typing sessions more manageable. The smooth and polished nature of the switch further enhances the overall experience, resulting in a seamless key travel that typists will appreciate. Unfortunately, no specific details are provided regarding the feel of the HMX SU linear switch, leaving its tactile experience somewhat unclear. However, if it is created for similar purposes as other linear switches, users might expect a smooth typing experience, though it may not match the effortless enjoyment provided by the Pipefish.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch offers a well-rounded experience with its neutral sound and smooth, easy-to-press, polished feel, making it an excellent choice for typists seeking comfort and versatility. The HMX SU linear switch, with its distinct deep sound profile, could attract those looking for a more nuanced auditory feedback, though its tactile qualities remain unspecified. Overall, if you're seeking a balanced and strain-free typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is likely to deliver, while the HMX SU might appeal to users who value unique sound characteristics in their mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX SU linear switches ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you prioritize an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with minimal resistance, the Mannan Pipefish is the better choice for you. Its light 45g actuation force, combined with a smooth and polished feel, makes it perfect for casual typists seeking comfort and a strain-free experience, especially during long typing sessions. Additionally, its neutral sound profile allows for versatility, making it suitable for both home and work environments without drawing too much attention. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier action with a more robust feel, the HMX SU switch offers a 50g actuation force that strikes a balance between providing a satisfying tactile feedback and maintaining smooth travel. It features a unique housing and design that may appeal to those who like a deeper sound profile during their typing. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific typing style—whether you value lightness and smoothness or a bit more resistance and a distinct auditory experience.
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