KTT Hyacinth vs. KTT Mannan Pipefish
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Mannan Pipefish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Mannan Pipefish offer unique features and benefits for users. The Hyacinth stands out with its design choice of a 3.5mm travel distance, aimed at avoiding the common hard bottoming-out experience associated with longer-stem switches. This commitment to user comfort and balance is further emphasized by the use of a single-stage elongated spring, providing a more consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish offers an effortless and enjoyable typing experience with its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. Perfect for casual typists seeking a strain-free journey, it provides a delightful and precise typing experience. However, to make the best decision for your needs, let's dive in deeper beyond these generalities and explore the specific characteristics of each switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
56g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the KTT Mannan Pipefish, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, share similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, due to its translucency, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of both the Hyacinth and the Mannan Pipefish.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The Hyacinth features a nylon bottom housing, while the Mannan Pipefish utilizes the same type of material. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic compared to harder ones. The absorption of sound by nylon results in a duller and rounder sound, adding a distinct characteristic to the switch's overall performance.
As a result of the different materials used for the top and bottom housings, pressing down and releasing keys on both switches will trigger varying sound profiles. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, influences the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing, made of polycarbonate in both the Hyacinth and the Mannan Pipefish, plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, the use of polycarbonate and nylon in both switches ensures a durable construction and similar overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Hyacinth has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams, making it medium-light. On the other hand, the Mannan Pipefish has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, classifying it as light.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish would be the ideal choice as its actuation force and bottom out force are both lighter than that of the Hyacinth. This lighter weight allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it suitable for individuals who desire extended typing sessions or engaging gaming sessions.
However, some individuals enjoy a stronger push and a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, the Hyacinth would be a better choice as its actuation force and bottom out force are higher than that of the Mannan Pipefish. This heavier weight in the Hyacinth provides a more tactile feedback and a firmer press, giving a satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force, providing distinct typing experiences. The Hyacinth offers a medium-light weight, perfect for those seeking a stronger push, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter weight, ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The Hyacinth has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Mannan Pipefish has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Mannan Pipefish falls within the more conventional range of 4.0 mm, whereas the Hyacinth offers a slightly shallower and shorter travel distance. The choice of travel distance depends on personal preference and specific usage scenarios. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances to achieve faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and may prefer the longer travel distance offered by the Mannan Pipefish for a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether one values responsiveness or a deeper keystroke sensation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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.
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 KTT Hyacinth and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and whether you plan to use them at home or in a work setting. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Hyacinth is described as having a silky and subtle typing experience. A silky switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The subtle resistance of the Hyacinth switch provides a light typing feel, and the sound signature is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, the KTT Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press and polished typing experience. The easy-to-press attribute means that these switches require minimal force to activate, resulting in effortless and comfortable typing. The polished finish of the Mannan Pipefish switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT Hyacinth and KTT Mannan Pipefish switches have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Hyacinth provides a silky and subtle typing experience, while the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press and polished feel. However, both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, either switch can provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen to further customize the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a moderately light switch with a smooth typing experience and a comfortable actuation force, the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, it provides effortless and enjoyable typing. The Mannan Pipefish also offers a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is perfect for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding journey.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a unique design choice and a more consistent force curve, the KTT Hyacinth linear switch would be a suitable option. The Hyacinth's 56g bottom out force offers a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Mannan Pipefish. It features a 3.5mm travel distance to avoid the hard bottoming-out experience commonly found in switches with longer stems. The Hyacinth is described as having a neutral sound profile and a subtle typing feel, making it suitable for various intents and purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Hyacinth and Mannan Pipefish switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as actuation force, bottom-out force, typing feel, and sound profile to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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