KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Wuque Studio WS Dash
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Dash switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Dash stand out for distinct reasons, catering to different typing preferences and styles. The Mannan Pipefish, recognized for its smooth linear action and light 45g actuation force, offers an effortless and delightful typing experience, making it an ideal choice for casual typists who prioritize comfort and ease. Its extended spring design enhances the feel of each keystroke, making it polished and strain-free. On the other hand, the WS Dash switches, based on the acclaimed Hall Effect technology, provide a unique clacky sound signature coupled with a silky smooth keystroke, delivering a refined auditory and tactile experience. This makes them particularly appealing for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback during their typing sessions. Both switches bring something special to the table: the Pipefish emphasizes effortless comfort, while the WS Dash offers a more engaging sound experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Dash, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a notable similarity in their acoustic performance. Polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is particularly advantageous for users seeking a responsive typing experience, as the material provides a clear resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of these switches when RGB lighting is involved, ensuring that the illumination shines through effectively and adds to the aesthetic value of the keyboard setup. The equal use of polycarbonate in both models guarantees that users will achieve similar sound characteristics and lighting effects.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wuque Studio WS Dash are both made from nylon, which significantly influences the overall acoustic quality when typing. Nylon is famed for its softer composition, leading to the production of deeper and fuller sound profiles that contrast sharply with the crispness of the polycarbonate top. As such, when users engage with these switches, the nylon bottom absorbs sound and creates a more rounded auditory experience. The coalescing effects of the two housing materials allow for a unique synergy between the sharper sound from the top and the fuller sound from the bottom, ultimately enriching the typing experience.
Ultimately, while the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wuque Studio WS Dash share similarities in their top housing materials, they also exhibit distinct characteristics through their nylon bottom housing. This combination produces a balanced sound profile characterized by clarity at the top and warmth at the bottom. Users can expect a typing experience that benefits from both the crispness of the polycarbonate and the depth of the nylon, ensuring that the switch encompasses a well-rounded acoustic profile. The thoughtful pairing of materials in both switches highlights the importance of the individual qualities of each housing, thus providing users with an engaging and pleasant typing experience.
Weight
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which may cater to varying typing preferences. The Mannan Pipefish features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the WS Dash has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This difference indicates that while the WS Dash may be easier to trigger, it requires more force to fully press down compared to the Mannan Pipefish. Consequently, those who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing sessions might prefer the Mannan Pipefish, while users who enjoy a more substantial feel during bottoming out could benefit from the WS Dash despite its heavier bottom out force. Thus, while the actuation forces offer some similarity, the overall weight characteristics mark a significant distinction between the two switches.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Dash features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Dash the shorter option, appealing to gamers and those who favor rapid response times due to its reduced distance. Conversely, the Mannan Pipefish, with its greater travel distance, is better suited for those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience, as the 4 mm distance provides a heartier depth that some users find more satisfying. Ultimately, if you prioritize a quick response, the WS Dash is the way to go, while the Mannan Pipefish caters to those who enjoy more tactile feedback.
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 Wuque Studio WS Dash has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Dash for $7.49.
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, meaning it strikes a balance that is suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office. This switch produces a moderate sound level during keystrokes, making it appropriate for both casual and more focused typing tasks. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Dash switch is known for its bright and clacky sound signature, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback during use. This can create an engaging typing experience, especially appealing to those who appreciate a distinctive sound when typing. However, it’s important to note that the sound produced can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the chosen keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force to actuate. This results in a comfortable and strain-free typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Pipefish switch contributes to its smooth keystroke and reduced friction during key travel. In contrast, the feel of the WS Dash switch is not specified, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. If the Dash switch provides a smooth keystroke as advertised, users can expect a similarly pleasurable typing experience, but the specific qualities of its actuation and resistance remain to be determined.
In conclusion, while both KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wuque Studio WS Dash switches offer unique qualities, they cater to different typists depending on their preferences in sound and feel. The Mannan Pipefish is ideal for those seeking a smooth, neutral sound with effortless actuation, making it a delightful choice for long typing sessions. Meanwhile, the WS Dash appeals to users who enjoy a brighter auditory experience, though its tactile feel is less defined. If you prioritize sound and responsiveness, choosing between these models will depend on your personal preference for auditory feedback and actuation characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Dash hall effect switch comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is an excellent option. With its 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it allows for smooth keystrokes and minimizes finger fatigue, making it an ideal choice for casual typists or those who spend long hours at the keyboard. The neutral sound profile further adds to its versatility, suitable for both home and work environments. On the other hand, if you're looking for a unique tactile feedback and a more pronounced auditory experience, the WS Dash offers a captivating sound signature and a medium-light feel with a 55g actuation force. Its smooth and refined keystrokes coupled with the hall effect technology provide a responsive typing experience that appeals to those who appreciate a blend of performance and auditory charm. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value a lighter, effortless typing experience or seek a more engaging and refined feedback from your switches.
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