KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Mannan Pipefish switch is well-regarded for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. With a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch offers a comfortable and precise typing experience, making it a great choice for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey. On the other hand, the WS Red switch stands out for its bouncy and responsive typing experience, thanks to its 22mm double-stage spring. This switch also retains a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. Additionally, the WS Red switch has a heavier actuation force, which adds a touch of weight to each keystroke, delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wuque Studio WS Red switches have different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, when it comes to the sound produced when pressing down on a key, the Mannan Pipefish with its polycarbonate top housing will provide a clear and resonant sound, while the WS Red with its nylon top housing will elicit a deeper and fuller sound.
Both the Mannan Pipefish and WS Red switches have nylon bottom housings. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, regardless of the switch, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a deeper and fuller sound. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, so for both switches, the nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a deep and full sound when keys are pressed.
In summary, the KTT Mannan Pipefish and Wuque Studio WS Red switches differ in their top housings, with the Mannan Pipefish utilizing polycarbonate and the WS Red using nylon. This difference influences the sound produced when keys are pressed and released, with the Mannan Pipefish providing a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Red offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. However, both switches share a common feature in their nylon bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound when pressing down on keys, regardless of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, there are notable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, which means that it requires a gentle push to register a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the WS Red is unknown, so we cannot determine if it is lighter or heavier.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that when typing, users may experience a softer landing when fully pressing the keys. In comparison, the WS Red has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This signifies that users may feel a more substantial resistance when fully pressing the keys, providing a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Considering the weight aspect, the Mannan Pipefish is on the lighter side, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing feel. This can be advantageous for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue can be minimized. On the other hand, the WS Red, with its potentially heavier actuation force and heavier bottom out force, may appeal to individuals who enjoy a stronger push and seek a more substantial typing experience.
In conclusion, while both switches may offer different typing experiences due to variations in actuation force and bottom out force, we can assume that the WS Red provides a heavier and more tactile typing feel compared to the potentially lighter and softer typing feel of the Mannan Pipefish, based on the available information.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, often prefer shorter travel distances, making the WS Red a popular choice for them. The 3.8 mm travel distance of the WS Red provides a more responsive feel when pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and satisfying key press may opt for the Mannan Pipefish, with its slightly longer 4 mm travel distance. This longer travel distance offers a deeper sensation upon pressing the keys, which some individuals may find preferable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding key press responsiveness and depth.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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 classified as a neutral switch, which means it has a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or in the workplace. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. On the other hand, no specific information is available about the sound characteristics of the WS Red switch.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience. It requires minimal force to activate, resulting in gentle resistance during key presses. This enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, no information is provided about the feel of the WS Red switch.
In conclusion, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is known for providing an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. It features a smooth linear action, a lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This combination offers a comfortable and precise typing feel, making it suitable for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. While specific information about the WS Red switch is unavailable, it can be assumed that it offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, resulting in a satisfying and substantial feel. However, to achieve similar results for sound and feel, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a casual typist seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch is a great choice. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, you can experience effortless and enjoyable typing. The smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and comfortable feel make it perfect for those looking for a low-impact typing experience. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch might be more to your liking. With its 67g bottom out force, each keystroke delivers a satisfying and substantial typing feel. The WS Red switch also features a 22mm double-stage spring, retaining a familiar sound signature while providing a heavier touch to each key press.
In terms of sound, the Mannan Pipefish offers a neutral profile suitable for most purposes, while the WS Red's sound profile is not described.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish switch is easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Its polished finish adds to the sleek typing experience by reducing friction and offering smooth key travel. On the other hand, the feel of the WS Red switch is not described.
Ultimately, your choice between the Mannan Pipefish and WS Red linear switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience or a satisfying and substantial feel, both switches have their merits. Take into consideration the factors mentioned, and you'll be able to choose the switch that suits your needs and enhances your overall typing experience.
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