KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Mannan Pipefish, a linear switch, and the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch. The Mannan Pipefish is renowned for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force create a comfortable and precise journey for casual typists. On the other hand, the Taro switches provide a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute and crisp clacks. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to specific preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
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
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Jwick Taro have similar housing materials in terms of their top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Mannan Pipefish and the Taro differ in materials. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, while the Taro also utilizes nylon for its own bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Therefore, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel due to the nylon bottom housing.
Overall, the main distinction between the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Jwick Taro lies in their bottom housing materials, with the Mannan Pipefish featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Taro featuring the same. This difference in materials affects the sound profile when typing on the switches, with nylon producing a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches provide a similar experience in terms of the top housing material, which is polycarbonate. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as well as allowing for RGB lighting effects. In summary, while the bottom housings differ, the top housings provide comparable results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams, allowing for a quick keystroke activation. Its bottom out force is slightly heavier at 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro's actuation force remains unknown, making it difficult to determine the specific force required to trigger a keystroke. However, its bottom out force is relatively heavier at 67 grams, giving users a medium-heavy touch and a more pronounced typing feel. So, while the Mannan Pipefish offers a lighter typing experience overall, the Taro provides a heavier and more substantial feel. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the lighter and crisper actuation of the Mannan Pipefish or the more pronounced bottom out force of the Taro for their specific needs.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches provide a noticeable tactile feedback when pressed, but the Mannan Pipefish has a slightly longer travel distance. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, providing a satisfying amount of depth when typing. On the other hand, the Taro’s 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which can be beneficial for gamers or those seeking faster response times. Shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular in modern switches, catering to users who prioritize quick and precise inputs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference – those who enjoy a more responsive feel should opt for the Taro with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper and more pronounced keystroke may prefer the Mannan Pipefish with its longer travel distance.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound, making them suitable for most purposes and environments. However, 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 used.
When it comes to feel, the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance during key presses. This means that minimal force is required to activate the switch, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped feel. A buttery switch refers to a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The stepped feel of the Taro switch means that it has two stages of tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
In conclusion, both the Mannan Pipefish and the Taro switches provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. While the Mannan Pipefish offers an easy-to-press feel with a polished finish, the Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. Depending on your personal preferences, you can expect similar results in terms of typing experience from these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the Mannan Pipefish linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its smooth linear action, light actuation and bottom-out force, and lengthened spring, this switch provides a comfortable and precise typing experience. It is perfect for casual typists who are seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Jwick Taro switch is your go-to option. It offers a snappy and medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and can be used in various settings, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Overall, choosing between these switches depends on your preference for a lighter and smoother typing experience or a more tactile and satisfying keystroke.
Mentioned in this article
