KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Mannan Pipefish and TTC Venus stand out for their unique characteristics. The Mannan Pipefish offers effortless and enjoyable typing with its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, making it perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free experience. On the other hand, the TTC Venus boasts a delightful balance of a seamless glide and a captivating "Q-texture," providing a unique matte sensation with every press. While the Mannan Pipefish is categorized as easy-to-press and neutral, the TTC Venus is described as buttery, gummy, and frictionless, among others. Each switch has its own appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Venus, we see a clear contrast in terms of the top housing. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Venus boasts a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This variation in sound quality is directly influenced by the stiffness of the plastic used in each housing material. The polycarbonate in the Mannan Pipefish offers a clear and resonant sound, whereas the POM in the Venus provides a more subdued and unique sound experience.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing of these switches, we see a reversal in the materials used. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material. In contrast, the Venus features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer nature. This difference in bottom housing materials further contributes to the overall sound experience of each switch, influencing the tactile feedback and sound produced when pressing down on the keys.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Mannan Pipefish and the TTC Venus, it is important to note that these variations ultimately impact the overall sound profile and user experience of each switch. While the Mannan Pipefish showcases a combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials, resulting in a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, the Venus presents a unique sound profile with its POM top housing and polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether it's the sharpness of polycarbonate or the deep tones of POM, the housing materials play a crucial role in dictating the auditory feedback and tactile feel of these switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is clear that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the TTC Venus is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams. The Mannan Pipefish provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the Venus offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches are relatively light compared to other options on the market, so users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Venus at 3.8 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, the Mannan Pipefish offers a slightly deeper press than the Venus. This means that users who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Mannan Pipefish, while those looking for a quicker response time may lean towards the Venus. Ultimately, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance may cater to different preferences among 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 Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch provides a low-pitched, muted sound signature that offers a quieter typing experience. While the Mannan Pipefish is more versatile in terms of sound, the Venus switch may be preferred by those looking for a quieter option.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature with minimal resistance, making typing effortless and comfortable. It also features a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. Conversely, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a buttery and frictionless feel, providing a fluid and effortless keystroke experience. Additionally, it has a gummy sensation when bottoming out, adding a unique tactile element to typing. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Venus switch may appeal more to those looking for a smoother and more fluid feel.
Overall, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish provides a neutral sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Venus switch offers a low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, frictionless feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more versatile sound profile with the Mannan Pipefish or a quieter, smoother typing experience with the Venus switch. Ultimately, both switches deliver a comfortable and precise typing experience, ensuring an enjoyable keyboarding journey for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the typing experience you're looking for. If you prefer a light actuation force and a smooth linear action for a strain-free and precise typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique "matte" sensation with a very light actuation force, a captivating "Q-texture" feel, and a subdued sound signature, the TTC Venus switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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