KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, particularly linear options, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The Mannan Pipefish is lauded for its effortless and enjoyable typing, featuring a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring design, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This makes it an ideal choice for casual typists who seek a comfortable and strain-free keyboarding journey, allowing for long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch distinguishes itself with its all-POM construction, offering a deep "thock" sound that many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts find satisfying, coupled with a buttery-smooth keystroke. This switch appeals to users who appreciate both auditory feedback and a refined feel while typing. While both options cater to linear switch lovers, their distinct features and auditory experiences can influence your choice. 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
45g
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
3.60 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
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wique Studio WS POM+ switches employ different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances clarity and sharpness in sound production due to the material's inherent stiffness. This creates a higher-pitched, crisper sound that is particularly effective when it comes to RGB lighting integration, due to the material's translucency. In contrast, the WS POM+ uses POM (polyoxymethylene) for its top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. This pronounced difference showcases how the choice of housing material can shape the overall auditory experience when using these switches.
While the top housings of the two switch types differ, the bottom housings present a more nuanced comparison. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which is known for absorbing sound and creating a deeper, fuller audio signature. Meanwhile, the WS POM+ also features POM for its bottom housing. Due to the softer nature of nylon compared to POM, the Mannan Pipefish excels in offering a more muted and rounded sound profile, while the WS POM+ provides a unique sound that still retains some degree of depth. Therefore, despite using the same bottom material, the distinct characteristics of nylon in the Mannan Pipefish contribute to a fuller audio experience that differs from the POM option in the WS POM+.
Ultimately, the combined impact of the top and bottom housing materials leads to unique sound profiles for each switch. The Mannan Pipefish’s use of polycarbonate on top allows for a more resonant and brighter sound when releasing a key, while its nylon bottom enriches the typing sound with depth. The WS POM+, utilizing POM for both the top and bottom, results in a cohesive, deeper auditory experience that feels unique yet consistent. Thus, while the two switches employ different materials for their top housing, they can achieve similar deep and pleasing sound results with layered characteristics due to their bottom housing configurations. This interplay of materials allows users to choose between clarity and depth based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Mannan Pipefish features a light actuation force of 37 grams, culminating in a bottom out force of 45 grams. In contrast, the WS POM+ requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, with a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter switch overall, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, providing a gentler tactile experience. Conversely, the WS POM+ offers a more substantial push with its medium-light force, which may appeal to users who prefer a heftier feedback while typing. Ultimately, these differences highlight how enthusiasts might choose either switch based on their preference for lighter or heavier actuation forces in their typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Mannan Pipefish offers a more traditional and hearty depth in its actuation, which some users may find more satisfying for typing and gaming, as it provides a more substantial tactile feedback. In contrast, the WS POM+ appeals to those who prefer quicker response times, especially favored by gamers, due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, if you opt for the Mannan Pipefish, you'll experience a slightly longer keypress, which may be beneficial for those who prefer a more deliberate action, while the WS POM+ allows for quicker actuation but may feel too abrupt for users who appreciate a deeper travel. Thus, in terms of travel distance, the KTT Mannan Pipefish is the longer option at 4 mm, compared to the shorter 3.6 mm of the Wuque Studio WS POM+.
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 POM+ comes in at $3.90 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mannan Pipefish switch has a neutral profile that suits a wide range of users and environments. This means its sound level is moderate, making it versatile for both home and office settings, without being overly loud or too quiet. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch is characterized by a deep, satisfying "thock" sound signature, providing a more tactile auditory experience that some typists find particularly enjoyable. While both switches offer pleasant acoustics, the Mannan Pipefish is more well-rounded for varying contexts, whereas the WS POM+ leans toward a distinct and fulfilling auditory response, favoring a user's preference for a definitive sound.
Regarding feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch excels with its easy-to-press design and polished finish. The light actuation force of 45g results in a seamless typing experience that is gentle on the fingers, making it perfect for extended typing sessions. The polished nature of the switch also reduces friction, enhancing the overall smoothness of key travel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the WS POM+ is not provided, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. However, the experience derived from the Mannan Pipefish offers a comfortable and refined typing feel that many casual users will appreciate.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches cater to distinct preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Mannan Pipefish stands out for its neutral sound profile and smooth, easy-to-press feel, making it an ideal choice for typists seeking comfort and versatility. The WS POM+, with its rich "thock" sound signature, presents a compelling option for those who prioritize auditory feedback, although its tactile qualities remain unspecified. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, aiming to enhance your keyboard journey in their unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch really comes down to your typing preferences and style. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and a comfortable, effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is ideal for you, especially during extended typing sessions. Its smooth action, lower actuation force of 45 grams, and neutral sound profile make it a perfect match for casual typists or those who find themselves typing for hours without strain. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more substantial bottom-out experience with a deeper auditory feedback, the WS POM+ switch may be the better option. With its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams and a unique "thock" sound signature, it provides a satisfying tactile feedback that many enthusiasts enjoy. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you value lightness and ease of use or prefer a more enriching auditory and tactile experience while typing.
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