KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both linear switches offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The Mannan Pipefish switch is renowned for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, featuring a smooth linear action with a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force that appeals particularly to casual typists seeking a delightful, strain-free experience. Its design prioritizes ease of use, making it perfect for those who value comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), as an upgraded variant of the classic Xinhai switch, offers a heavier feel with its innovative PA12 top housing, which enhances acoustic softness while the POM stem delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a more substantial feedback during their typing experience. While both switches cater to different needs—lightness and ease versus weight and acoustic quality—they each provide a unique flair to the mechanical keyboard experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) exhibit both similarities and differences that significantly influence the acoustic profiles and feel of the switches. The Mannan Pipefish features a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to polycarbonate's inherent stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity during typing. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy) utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound due to the material's softer nature, which effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. Here, we see a clear contrast between the two materials, with polycarbonate leaning towards brightness and clarity, while nylon tends toward warmth and depth.
Both the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Xinhai (Heavy) share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing component. This similarity results in a generally deeper and fuller sound profile, as both switches leverage the acoustic dampening properties of nylon, reducing higher frequencies and promoting a more pleasing bass response. This design choice enhances the typing experience by providing a consistent audio and tactile feedback when bottoming out the switches. The shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that regardless of the differences in the top housing, both switches will deliver a similar tonal foundation that fosters a satisfying keystroke sensation.
Despite the variances in the materials used for the top housing in the Mannan Pipefish and Xinhai (Heavy), the overall sound experience is shaped by the combination of both the top and bottom housings. The Mannan Pipefish's crisp sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing will interact with the robust, cushioned effect of the nylon bottom housing to create a unique blend of auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Xinhai's entirely nylon housing results in consistent sound dampening throughout the keystroke. Therefore, while the tonal qualities may differ at launch and release, the interplay between the materials reflects how one switch's sound character can lead to similar satisfying results through engineering diversity.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, a noticeable difference exists in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Mannan Pipefish features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an appealing option for users seeking a more effortless typing experience, especially during prolonged use for work or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel with each keystroke. This means that while the Mannan Pipefish is lighter and delivers a softer typing experience, the HMX Xinhai offers a firmer push, appealing to users who value a stronger tactile response. Overall, one can expect a distinctly different typing experience depending on which switch is chosen, with the Mannan Pipefish favoring comfort and extended use, while the Xinhai (Heavy) leans toward a more robust and decisive feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Mannan Pipefish boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option and catering to users who appreciate a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, appealing particularly to gamers and those who prefer quicker response times. While both switches offer functional benefits, the choice between them largely hinges on user preference; those who favor a deeper, more deliberate typing experience may gravitate towards the Mannan Pipefish, while users seeking efficiency and speed may opt for the Xinhai (Heavy). Ultimately, the contrasting travel distances reflect varied user needs in the realm of switch design.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 produces a neutral acoustic profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments, whether at home or in the office. This moderate sound level ensures that it doesn’t distract during typing sessions, appealing to both novices and experienced typists alike. In contrast, the sound characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch remain unknown, but it is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing, which suggests it could potentially offer a softer acoustic profile. Overall, the Mannan Pipefish's sound is adaptable, while the Xinhai’s sound qualities may vary based on its construction and additional factors like the choice of board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Mannan Pipefish is characterized by an effortless and easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for activation. This gentle resistance, along with its polished finish, enhances the overall typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The smooth key travel provided by the switch contributes to a refined and comfortable feel that typists are likely to enjoy. Meanwhile, the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch remains unspecified, leaving it harder to gauge how it may measure up to the polished sensation of the Mannan Pipefish. Therefore, if smoothness and low impact are what you seek, the Pipefish stands out as a clear choice.
In conclusion, when comparing the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch to the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Mannan Pipefish clearly shines in both its sound and feel, offering a neutral acoustic profile and an easy, polished typing experience. While the Xinhai (Heavy) has certain design considerations that may enhance its performance, there is limited information available about its sound and feel. As such, if you prioritize effortless typing and smooth acoustics, you are likely to find the Mannan Pipefish to be the more appealing option. However, the Xinhai's construction could provide unique results, which may resonate differently depending on the specific setup and personal preference.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you favor a light touch and a relaxed typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish is an excellent option. Its 45-gram actuation and bottom-out force make it perfect for casual typists and those who type for extended periods, as it minimizes finger fatigue with its easy-to-press and polished feel, allowing for an effortless and enjoyable experience. On the other hand, if you lean towards a heavier switch that provides more resistance while typing, the Xinhai (Heavy) is the way to go. With a robust 62.5-gram actuation and bottom-out force, it offers a more tactile experience that can enhance precision and control, making it ideal for those who prefer a firmer feedback during typing or gaming sessions. Furthermore, its unique construction promotes a crisper sound profile, which you might appreciate if you enjoy a more distinct acoustic experience. Ultimately, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize comfort and smoothness or robustness and crispness in your mechanical keyboard.