KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro are two popular options to consider. The Mannan Pipefish is a linear switch known for its smooth action, light 45g actuation force, and comfortable typing experience, making it a great choice for casual typists looking for an effortless journey. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility and light touch, providing a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the Mannan Pipefish boasts easy-to-press qualities and a polished feel, the Violet Gold Pro is described as stepped and neutral. Both switches have their unique strengths, but 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
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, both switches feature a top housing made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. As a result, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetics from both switches when it comes to the top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Mannan Pipefish utilizes nylon while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also features a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing. With nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that incorporate nylon in their construction. Therefore, both switches will offer a different typing experience based on the bottom housing material used.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials in the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing's impact will be felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Despite both switches having similar top housings made of polycarbonate, the variation in bottom housing material will provide users with a unique tactile and auditory experience when typing on each switch.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience once pressed all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Mannan Pipefish may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and desired actuation force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be beneficial for gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Mannan Pipefish offering a longer travel distance and the Violet Gold Pro providing a slightly shorter travel distance.
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 Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro 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
When it comes to sound, both the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they both provide a moderate sound level that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Additionally, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This translates to an effortless and comfortable typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is labeled as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. This provides a more distinct tactile feedback compared to the linear Mannan Pipefish switch.
In conclusion, both the Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Mannan Pipefish provides a smooth and light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a balanced tactile feedback with a similar neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and whether one prefers a linear or tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, you should take into account your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience with light actuation and bottom-out force, the Mannan Pipefish may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch and a balanced typing experience, the Violet Gold Pro could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Mentioned in this article
