KTT Mannan Pipefish vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch and looking for the perfect fit? Look no further as we compare and contrast two popular options: the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow. The Mannan Pipefish is known for its effortless and enjoyable typing experience, featuring a smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and a light 45g actuation and bottom-out force. This makes it ideal for casual typists seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey. On the other hand, the WS Yellow offers a timeless fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, these switches provide a pleasing bounce and a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Additionally, they are crafted to be lightweight, ensuring smooth and fluid typing. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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 housing materials of the KTT Mannan Pipefish and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow differ in terms of their properties and resulting sound profiles. The Mannan Pipefish utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that allows for a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the WS Yellow features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, the choice between these materials is dependent on the desired sound characteristics.
Similarly, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both the Mannan Pipefish and the WS Yellow provide a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This similarity ensures that users can expect a satisfying typing experience with both switches, particularly if they prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Mannan Pipefish and the WS Yellow, it is important to note that each housing material brings its own qualities to the switch. When it comes to pressing down on a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key is influenced more by the top housing. Therefore, the choice of housing material for both top and bottom can directly affect the overall sound and typing experience of the switch, allowing users to tailor their preferences based on their desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Mannan Pipefish has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the WS Yellow's actuation force is unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Mannan Pipefish requires 45 grams, while the WS Yellow requires 53 grams. The Mannan Pipefish is on the lighter side in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Yellow falls into the medium-light category for bottom out force. In terms of actuation force, since the exact value for the WS Yellow is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if the actuation force of the WS Yellow is similar to that of the Mannan Pipefish, users can expect similar results in terms of the lightness of typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preference - whether one prefers a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Mannan Pipefish being slightly longer. However, it is noteworthy that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the WS Yellow would be a suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the 4.0 mm travel distance of the Mannan Pipefish more satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 Wuque Studio WS Yellow 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
The Mannan Pipefish linear switch is best known for its smooth linear action, lengthened spring, and light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience. The sound of the Mannan Pipefish is described as neutral, making it suitable for most purposes and environments. As for the feel, the Mannan Pipefish is easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue. Additionally, it is described as polished, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch from Wuque Studio features a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, providing a satisfying bounce during typing. The sound quality of the WS Yellow is not mentioned, so we can assume it falls within a neutral range similar to the Mannan Pipefish. In terms of feel, the WS Yellow is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience similar to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys. It is also considered mild, providing a gentle typing experience that would be approachable to most users. Similar to the Mannan Pipefish, the WS Yellow is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for enhanced typing.
In conclusion, both the Mannan Pipefish and the WS Yellow deliver a smooth and comfortable typing experience. While the sound quality of the WS Yellow is not specified, based on the information provided, it can be assumed that both switches will have a similar neutral sound profile. Additionally, both switches feature a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches are suitable for casual typists seeking a delightful and strain-free keyboarding experience, providing effortless keystrokes and a fluid typing feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the KTT Mannan Pipefish linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you are a casual typist seeking a strain-free keyboarding journey, the Mannan Pipefish switch would be a great choice. With its smooth linear action, light 45g actuation and bottom-out force, and lengthened spring, you can expect an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, the Mannan Pipefish switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce and a familiar sound signature, the WS Yellow switch would be more appealing. Crafted to be lightweight, these switches provide effortless and smooth keystrokes. They feature a 22mm double-stage spring at their core, offering a unique tactile sensation. Moreover, the WS Yellow switch is described as both creamy and polished, providing a silky typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference. Consider factors such as typing style, typing environment, and desired typing feel when choosing between the Mannan Pipefish and WS Yellow switches. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, enhancing your overall typing experience.
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