KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options worth considering are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Windy Shadow, both linear switches. The Mannan Pipefish is praised for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, featuring a smooth linear action, light 45g actuation, and bottom-out force, making it ideal for casual typists looking for comfort and precision. On theWindy Shadow side, Aflion introduces a switch with a neutral sound profile and a distinctive windy bounce due to its extended spring. With a 55g bottom-out force, the Windy Shadow offers a comfortable enthusiasts . Both switches have unique features, making them stand out in their own right. 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
N/A
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
3.50 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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Windy Shadow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards they are used in. However, the differences emerge when looking at the bottom housing material. The Mannan Pipefish opts for a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Windy Shadow also features a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing the same qualities in its sound profile.
Despite the similarities in the polycarbonate top housing, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches showcases distinct characteristics in their sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on the switch. Conversely, the Windy Shadow's nylon bottom housing provides a similar deeper and fuller sound profile but with its own unique touch, creating a different typing experience. This difference in bottom housing material highlights how even subtle material changes can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Aflion Windy Shadow contributes to a balanced and dynamic typing experience. While the switches share similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housing, the distinct qualities of the nylon bottom housing set them apart. The use of different materials for the bottom housing allows each switch to offer a unique sound profile, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the Mannan Pipefish or the crisper and sharper sound of the Windy Shadow, both switches demonstrate how housing materials play a key role in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it is clear that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter of the two. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light in comparison. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to the variance in force required. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Mannan Pipefish for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the more substantial feel of the Windy Shadow for a stronger push while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is 4 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow. The 4 mm travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish offers a bit more depth and tactile feedback, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced keypress. On the other hand, the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Windy Shadow provides a slightly shallower feel, which could be favored by those looking for a quicker response time. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, so the choice between the two would largely depend on personal preference in terms of keypress depth and 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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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 comparing the sound of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various environments and user preferences. The Mannan Pipefish is described as having a neutral sound profile, while the Windy Shadow is noted to have a low-pitched tone, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience without being overly loud or distracting.
In terms of feel, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish is described as having a polished finish, contributing to smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch provides a mild typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel that is approachable to most users. While specific details on the feel of the Windy Shadow are limited, it can be inferred that it offers a comfortable and user-friendly typing feel.
Overall, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch offer enjoyable typing experiences with their smooth linear action and comfortable actuation forces. While the Mannan Pipefish excels in effortless typing with its easy-to-press nature and polished finish, the Windy Shadow provides a distinctive typing feel with its extended spring and medium-light actuation force. Whether you prefer a more refined typing experience or a neutral sound profile, both switches are excellent choices for casual typists seeking a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch or the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter actuation force and a smoother typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish with its 45g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for you. It provides effortless and strain-free typing, perfect for casual typists seeking comfort and precision. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a distinctive bounce, the Aflion Windy Shadow with its 55g bottom-out force might be more suitable. The Windy Shadow offers a comfortable medium-light feel with a unique sound profile. Consider your typing preferences and needs to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics to enhance your typing experience.
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