KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Wine Red. Both switches offer exceptional performance and unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Mannan Pipefish switch is renowned for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it guarantees a comfortable and precise journey for casual typists looking for strain-free keyboarding. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a pillowy light type feel and a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile, perfect for those seeking a more bassy and low-pitched typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
44g
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
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the KTT Wine Red switches are quite similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is particularly advantageous when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the two switches differ. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Wine Red utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a more clear and resonant sound profile.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, the overall sound experience of both switches will be affected by the combination of materials used. While the bottom housing determines the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of the sound profile when using both the Mannan Pipefish and the Wine Red switches. Both switches aim to provide a clear and resonant sound, albeit with slight variations based on the differences in their bottom housings.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Wine Red switches feature a transparent top housing indicative of the use of polycarbonate. This adds a visually appealing element, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, it is worth noting that the Wine Red's top housing is not explicitly stated as polycarbonate in the given information, unlike the Mannan Pipefish. Nonetheless, the similarity in the description suggests that the materials used are likely to yield comparable results.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force, requiring only 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Wine Red has a slightly heavier actuation force of 44 grams. This means that those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Mannan Pipefish more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams of force to fully press down, while the Wine Red has a higher bottom out force of 55 grams. This implies that the Wine Red offers a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel.
It is important to consider the weight of the switches when making a choice. For those who value a lighter switch, the Mannan Pipefish provides a favorable option as it is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, the Wine Red offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by individuals seeking a more robust feel.
In summary, while the Mannan Pipefish and Wine Red linear switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, both switches provide viable options depending on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it moves from the top to the bottom, and in this case, both switches move a total of 4 mm. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance when using either the Mannan Pipefish or Wine Red switches.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish switch is known for having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, or if you are planning to use these switches at home or work, the Mannan Pipefish switch will provide a satisfactory sound. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile. It is characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. If you prefer a switch with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, the Wine Red switch would be the better choice.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch provides an easy-to-press typing experience. It offers gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Wine Red switch is unknown.
Taking into consideration the available information, the Mannan Pipefish switch is well-regarded for its smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and comfortable typing experience. It provides an effortless and enjoyable typing journey, perfect for casual typists. In terms of sound, it offers a neutral sound profile suitable for most purposes. Its easy-to-press feel and polished finish further enhance the typing experience. While information about the feel and sound profile of the Wine Red switch is limited, based on the general characteristics of a pillowy light type feel and a deep and rich sound profile, it can be inferred that the Wine Red switch may provide similar results in terms of feel and sound. Ultimately, the choice between the Mannan Pipefish and Wine Red switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist seeking a strain-free and delightful typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it offers effortless and comfortable typing. The smooth linear action and lengthened spring further enhance the precision and comfort of your typing. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments, whether you are using it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you appreciate a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile while typing, the Wine Red linear switch would be perfect for you. These switches offer a pillowy light type feel and produce a bassy and low-pitched sound during key presses. This adds a unique auditory experience to your typing sessions.
Considering the feel of the switches, the Mannan Pipefish offers easy-to-press keys that require minimal force to activate. This low-impact typing feel reduces finger fatigue and ensures a comfortable typing experience, especially during extended sessions. Furthermore, the Mannan Pipefish switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that results in sleek key travel and reduced friction.
In conclusion, if you prioritize a strain-free and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are fond of a rich and deep sound profile and appreciate an easy-to-press and polished switch, the Wine Red linear switch is the perfect choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard.
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