KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The keyboard market offers a wide range of options, each tailored to suit different preferences and needs. When it comes to linear switches, two noteworthy options are the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Mannan Pipefish excels in providing an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light actuation and bottom-out force make typing a comfortable and precise endeavor. This switch is perfect for casual typists who seek a strain-free and delightful keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, produced by the consistently impressive Outemu brand, boasts a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile. Gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness will find this switch to be highly favorable. While both switches fall under the linear switch category, they differ in terms of actuation force and sound profile. However, let's go beyond these generalities and delve deeper into the unique characteristics of each switch, so you can make the best decision for your personal preferences.
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
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Yellow Silver share similar housing materials, as both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic composition leads to a more clear and resonant sound output. Aesthetically, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making it particularly useful for those planning to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Mannan Pipefish or the Yellow Silver.
However, the two switches differ when it comes to their bottom housing materials. The Mannan Pipefish features a nylon bottom housing, while the Yellow Silver also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, as a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different sound experience between the bottom housings of the Mannan Pipefish and the Yellow Silver.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing materials are distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more noticeable in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. So while the Mannan Pipefish and Yellow Silver may share housing materials, the way they create sound and overall typing experience can be influenced by the specific design and composition of their top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Mannan Pipefish is the lighter of the two options. With an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, it offers a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch is slightly heavier. It has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Mannan Pipefish would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for comfortable typing for extended periods of time, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. However, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Yellow Silver switch would be a better option. With slightly higher actuation and bottom out forces, it provides a bit more resistance.
Overall, both switches offer a linear typing experience, but with slight differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the lighter to medium-light range. So, for those who prefer similar results, either switch can deliver a comparable typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the tactile experience while typing. In the case of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience as they press down on the keys, feeling a consistent distance between the top and bottom positions. Therefore, the travel distance of these two switches is identical, resulting in comparable results for users.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Yellow Silver switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound when typing. These switches are suitable for a variety of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and can be used both at home and in a professional setting. 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 being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers an easy-to-press experience. This means that it requires minimal force to activate the keys, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing. The light actuation force also helps to reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch has a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to an enhanced typing feel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
In conclusion, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Yellow Silver switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their linear action and light actuation forces. However, it's worth noting that the Mannan Pipefish switch provides additional benefits such as an easy-to-press feel and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. If you are looking for a similar typing experience to the Mannan Pipefish switch, the Yellow Silver switch may provide similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a delightful and strain-free typing experience, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, this switch provides effortless and comfortable typing. The smooth linear action and lengthened spring further enhance the precision of your keystrokes. Whether you are a casual typist or someone who spends extended periods typing, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a low-impact and responsive feel that minimizes finger fatigue. Additionally, its neutral sound profile makes it suitable for both home and work environments.
On the other hand, if speed and responsiveness are your top priorities, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be a fantastic option. With its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, this switch is favored by gamers and typists who prefer a swift and efficient typing experience. While specific details about the Yellow Silver's feel are not mentioned, its light actuation force suggests a low-resistance and effortless keystroke.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Outemu Yellow Silver will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. If you prioritize comfort, precision, and a strain-free typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed, responsiveness, and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and specific needs to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
