Last Updated on December 5, 2023
One of the most popular mechanical keyboards in the market is the Glorious GMMK. This keyboard offers hot-swappable switches, RGB lighting options, and customizable keycaps, making it a favorite among gamers, typists, and enthusiasts.
In this review, we will dive into the features and specifications, design and build quality, performance, and pros and cons of the Glorious GMMK. We will also compare it with other mechanical keyboards in the market to help you make an informed decision.
Inside The Box of Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard
| Inside The Glorious GMMK Box |
| Glorious Modular Gaming Keyboard Extra keycaps Switch puller Keycap puller (not pictured) Sticker User Manuals |
Firstly, you’ll notice the keyboard itself, which is the Glorious Modular Gaming Keyboard. This is a high-quality mechanical keyboard that is designed for gamers, but can also be used for everyday typing tasks. The keyboard is modular, which means you can easily replace the keycaps and switches to customize your typing experience.
Next, you’ll see some extra keycaps. These are included so that you can personalize the look of your keyboard. The keycaps are made of high-quality ABS plastic and are double-shot molded, which means the legends (letters and symbols) are molded into the keycap itself, ensuring they won’t fade or wear off over time.
You’ll also find a switch puller, which is used to remove the switches from the keyboard. This can be useful if you want to replace a switch or customize the feel of your keyboard. The switch puller is made of plastic and is easy to use.
Additionally, there’s a keycap puller that is not pictured. This is used to remove the keycaps from the keyboard. The keycap puller is also made of plastic and is designed to be gentle on the keycaps so they don’t get damaged when you remove them.
You’ll also find a sticker that you can use to show off your love for the Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard. This sticker is made of vinyl and is weather-resistant, so you can stick it on your laptop or water bottle without worrying about it peeling off.
Finally, there are user manuals included in the box. These manuals provide information on how to use the keyboard, customize the keycaps and switches, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. The manuals are easy to read and provide step-by-step instructions to help you get the most out of your keyboard.
Features and Specifications
| Feature | GMMK Full-Size | GMMK Tenkeyless | GMMK 60% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $79.99 | $79.99 | $79.99 |
| Brand | Glorious PC Gaming Race | Glorious PC Gaming Race | Glorious PC Gaming Race |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, PC, PlayStation, XBOX | PC, PlayStation, XBOX, Mac | PC, PlayStation, XBOX, Mac |
| Connectivity Technology | USB | USB-C | USB-C |
| Keyboard Description | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Gaming | Gaming | Gaming |
| Special Feature | Hotkeys and Media Keys | Hotkeys and Media Keys | Hotkeys and Media Keys |
| Color | Full Size | Tenkeyless | 60% |
| Operating System | Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows 10 | Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows 10 | Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows 10 |
| Number of Keys | 104 | 87 | 61 |
| Keyboard backlighting color support | RGB | RGB | RGB |
| Fully Modular Keyboard | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Preinstalled Mechanical Switches | Gateron Brown Tactile Mechanical switches | Gateron Brown Tactile Mechanical switches | Gateron Brown Tactile Mechanical switches |
| OEM Layout | Standard ANSI layout with standard-sized bottom row | Standard ANSI layout with standard-sized bottom row | Standard ANSI layout with standard-sized bottom row |
| Superior Ergonomics and Compatibility | Inbuilt stand and OEM sculpted keycaps | Inbuilt stand and OEM sculpted keycaps | Inbuilt stand and OEM sculpted keycaps |
| Warranty | Free and included 1 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty | Free and included 1 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty | Free and included 1 Year Limited Manufacturer Warranty |
The Glorious GMMK mechanical keyboard is a high-quality keyboard designed for gamers and typists. It is a modular keyboard that allows users to easily replace the switches and keycaps.
The keyboard features a compact and sturdy design with a black matte finish. It has a detachable USB Type-C cable, which makes it easy to transport and use on the go.
The GMMK is available in three different sizes: full-size, tenkeyless, and compact. The full-size version includes a number pad, while the tenkeyless and compact versions do not.
The keyboard also features RGB backlighting with 16.8 million colors and multiple lighting modes. Users can customize the backlighting through software to suit their preferences.
The GMMK uses a hot-swappable PCB, which means that users can easily remove and replace the switches without soldering. It is compatible with all MX-style mechanical switches, including Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh switches.
The keyboard also includes N-key rollover and anti-ghosting, which ensures that all keystrokes are registered, even during intense gaming sessions. It also includes a Windows key lock function to prevent accidental key presses.
Overall, the Glorious GMMK mechanical keyboard is a versatile and high-quality keyboard that is ideal for gamers and typists who want a customizable and durable keyboard.
Design and Build Quality
The Glorious GMMK keyboard boasts a sleek and sophisticated design that exudes a timeless elegance. It has a matte black finish with minimal branding, which gives it a sleek and uncluttered look. The keyboard also comes with a set of extra keycaps, a keycap puller, and a switch puller, making it easy to customize the keyboard to your liking.
The build quality of the Glorious GMMK is exceptional, as it is constructed with high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. The keyboard features a sturdy aluminum frame that provides excellent support and stability, and the ABS plastic keycaps are also of high quality, ensuring that they can withstand everyday wear and tear. Additionally, the keycaps are double-shot molded, which means that the legends on the keys will not fade or wear off over time.
The keyboard also features a thick braided cable that adds to its durability and longevity. This cable is strong and flexible, making it easy to maneuver and position the keyboard as needed.
The typing experience on the Glorious GMMK is excellent, as it offers a satisfying tactile bump and an audible click on the Gateron switches. This feedback provides a tactile and audible cue to the user, making typing feel more engaging and responsive. Additionally, the keyboard has a low profile that makes it comfortable to type on for extended periods without causing discomfort or fatigue.
Overall, the Glorious GMMK keyboard is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, durable, and customizable keyboard that provides a satisfying typing experience. Its minimalist design and exceptional build quality make it a top choice for gamers, programmers, and anyone who spends a lot of time typing.
Ergonomic
Ergonomics is the study of designing tools, equipment, and systems that fit the human body’s natural abilities and limitations. It focuses on making things more comfortable, efficient, and safe for people to use.
The Glorious Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is designed with ergonomics in mind. Even though it has a high profile like most straight keyboards, it is still pretty good in terms of ergonomics. One notable feature is the ability to adjust the keyboard tilt with your foot in front of the bottom for the best position. This can help reduce strain on your wrists and hands while typing.
However, if you prefer a wrist rest for added comfort, Glorious sells it separately. A wrist rest is a cushioned pad that sits in front of your keyboard and provides support for your wrists while typing. It can be helpful for reducing the risk of developing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or repetitive strain injury.
In summary, ergonomics is an essential consideration when choosing tools or equipment, especially if you use them for extended periods. The Glorious Modular Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is a good example of a product designed with ergonomics in mind, offering features like adjustable tilt and the option of a wrist rest for added comfort.
Keycaps and Switches
Let’s start with switches. Switches are the mechanical components under each keycap that register a keystroke when pressed. The Glorious GMMK comes with Gateron Brown switches, which are very similar to Cherry MX Brown switches. These switches have a tactile bump when you press the key, which can give you a satisfying feel and feedback when typing.
Now, let’s move on to keycaps. Keycaps are the plastic covers on top of the switches that you actually press when typing. The default keycaps on the GMMK are made of ABS plastic, which can feel a bit slick and thin. However, the typing experience with the default keycaps and Gateron Brown switches is still pretty good.
If you want to customize your keyboard, the GMMK has a hot-swappable feature, which means you can easily change out the switches and keycaps without having to solder anything. This makes it easy to experiment with different switches and keycaps to find the perfect combination for your typing preferences.
Overall, the Glorious GMMK mechanical keyboard is a great choice if you’re looking for a customizable keyboard with high-quality switches and the ability to easily swap out keycaps and switches.
Performance
In the context of the Glorious GMMK keyboard, performance refers to how well the keyboard operates in terms of its responsiveness and accuracy when being used for gaming and typing.
The keyboard is designed to have a fast response time and accuracy, which means that when you press a key, the corresponding action is executed quickly and accurately. This is important for gamers who need to react quickly to in-game events, as well as for typists who require a high level of precision and speed.
One of the key features that contribute to the performance of the GMMK keyboard is its hot-swappable switches. This means that you can easily change the switches on the keyboard, allowing you to experiment with different switch types to find the one that suits your needs best. This is particularly important for gamers who may have different preferences for switch types depending on the game they are playing.
The GMMK keyboard also has a high polling rate, which refers to how often the keyboard sends data to the computer. A high polling rate means that the keyboard can detect and respond to keystrokes quickly, improving its overall responsiveness. Additionally, the keyboard features anti-ghosting technology, which ensures that all your keystrokes are registered accurately, even when multiple keys are pressed at the same time.
The RGB lighting options on the GMMK keyboard provide visual feedback for your keystrokes, making it easier to type in low light conditions. This not only improves the overall aesthetic of the keyboard but also enhances its functionality by making it easier to see the keys you are pressing.
Overall, the performance of the Glorious GMMK keyboard is optimized for gaming and typing, with features such as fast response time, accuracy, hot-swappable switches, high polling rate, anti-ghosting technology, and RGB lighting options contributing to its superior performance.
Typing Quality
When you use this keyboard, you’ll notice that typing feels really satisfying. The keycaps and switches are designed to be accurate and fast, so you won’t have to worry about any lag or delays when typing. The keycaps are also designed to be lightweight, which makes typing for long periods of time much more comfortable.
Another thing that makes typing on this keyboard feel great is the placement of the keycaps. They’re positioned perfectly, so your fingers can easily move from one key to another without any issues. The keycaps themselves are made from ABS material, which is known for being sturdy and durable. They don’t vibrate or wobble when you’re typing, which is important for accuracy.
The stabilizer on the GMMK keyboard is also really good at maintaining balance, which is important for preventing mistakes while typing. And if you’re someone who prefers a quiet typing experience, you’ll appreciate the Gateron Brown switches on this keyboard. They’re designed to be quiet and won’t disturb others around you.
Overall, the Glorious GMMK mechanical keyboard is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality typing experience. Whether you’re a professional typist or just someone who likes to type for fun, you’ll appreciate the accuracy, comfort, and durability of this keyboard.
RGB Backlighting
RGB backlighting refers to the ability of the keyboard to display different colors of light behind the keys. The term RGB stands for “red, green, blue,” which are the primary colors of light. By combining different amounts of these three colors, the keyboard can display millions of different colors.
The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboards are known for their customizable RGB backlighting. This means that you can choose the color of the backlighting, as well as the brightness level and various lighting effects. The keyboard has a software program that allows you to control these settings.
One cool feature of the GMMK’s RGB backlighting is that you can set up different lighting profiles. This means that you can have different color schemes and lighting effects for different applications or games. For example, you could have a profile with red backlighting for gaming, and a profile with blue backlighting for typing.
Overall, RGB backlighting on the Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboards is a great way to add some style and personalization to your typing experience. With the ability to choose from millions of different colors and lighting effects, you can create a keyboard that’s uniquely your own.
Glorious GMMK Keyboard Software
The GMMK software is a tool created by Glorious that can be used with all keyboard products made by GMMK. It’s a program that you can download onto your computer and use to customize your keyboard.
With the GMMK software, you can adjust the RGB backlight on your keyboard, which means you can change the colors of the keys to whatever you want. You can also program macro keys, which are keys that you can assign to do certain functions, like open a program or perform a specific action in a game.
The GMMK software also lets you create presets for your keyboard, which means you can save different color and function settings for your keyboard and switch between them easily. And if you have specific needs for your keyboard, you can create up to three different profiles that can be customized with different backlighting and macro key settings.
One thing to note is that some users have reported that the GMMK software can feel a bit slow or delayed when they use it. Glorious is aware of this issue and is working on updates to make the software more responsive.
Overall, the GMMK software is a great tool for customizing your keyboard and making it truly your own!
Compatibility
The GMMK keyboard is a great choice if you’re using a Windows computer, as it’s fully compatible with that operating system. This means that you can use all of the keyboard’s functions and features with ease, without any additional software or drivers needed.
However, if you’re using a Mac or a Linux computer, there are some shortcut function keys on the GMMK keyboard that may not work. This is because these keys are designed to work specifically with Windows operating systems, so they may not function the same way on other systems.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the GMMK software is only available for Windows operating systems. This means that if you want to customize your keyboard settings, program macros, or change the RGB lighting effects, you’ll need to do so on a Windows computer using the GMMK software.
Overall, if you’re a Windows user, the GMMK keyboard is an excellent choice for a customizable and high-quality mechanical keyboard. If you’re using a Mac or a Linux computer, you may experience some limitations with certain shortcut keys, but the keyboard should still function perfectly well for basic typing and gaming needs.
Glorious GMMK Keyboards Usability Test
Here are the results of our testing of GMMK in several different uses. The test data is in the table below:
| Mixed usage | The Glorious GMMK is a pretty good keyboard all around. It’s pretty versatile thanks to its hotswappable board that allows you to pull out switches and put in new ones. This makes it easier to try different types of switches and find the best ones for your needs, whether it’s for gaming or the office. Overall, the frame is very well-made and each key features RGB lighting, which is nice. |
| For Gaming | The Glorious GMMK is an excellent gaming keyboard. Our unit has Gateron Brown switches that seem to have a bit more pre-travel than other keyboards, but most people shouldn’t notice this and it’s within the manufacturer’s tolerance. Nevertheless, since this board is hotswappable, you’re able to choose your favorite gaming switches without any issues. The board is well-built and the RGB lighting is great to have. |
| For Office | The Glorious GMMK is a good office keyboard. Its full-size format gives you access to all necessary keys, including a NumPad. It offers a great overall typing quality thanks to steady keys and a very well-built frame. Thanks to its hotswappable board, you can easily put in and change the switches based on your needs. |
| For Programming | The Glorious GMMK is a very good programming keyboard. All keys can be remapped and they feel solid and steady. Typing on this board feels very nice, and you can choose your preferred switches thanks to the hotswappable board. The board is almost fully compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, although some non-alphanumerical keys don’t work on the latter two. |
The Glorious GMMK is a mechanical keyboard that is known for being versatile and high-quality. One of its standout features is its hotswappable board, which allows you to pull out switches and replace them with different ones. This makes it easy to customize the keyboard to your liking and find the best switches for your needs, whether you’re using it for gaming, programming, or office work.
In terms of gaming, the Glorious GMMK is an excellent keyboard. It is well-built and features RGB lighting, which is a nice touch. Our unit has Gateron Brown switches, which may have a bit more pre-travel than other keyboards, but this is within the manufacturer’s tolerance and most people shouldn’t notice it. The hotswappable board allows you to easily switch out the switches for your preferred gaming switches without any issues.
For office work, the Glorious GMMK is a good choice thanks to its full-size format, which includes a NumPad. The typing quality is excellent due to the steady keys and well-built frame. Plus, the hotswappable board allows you to easily customize the switches based on your needs.
If you’re a programmer, you’ll appreciate the Glorious GMMK’s ability to remap all of the keys. The keys feel solid and steady, and the typing experience is very nice. The hotswappable board also allows you to choose your preferred switches for programming.
Overall, the Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is a high-quality, versatile keyboard that is well-suited for a variety of uses. Its hotswappable board, RGB lighting, and sturdy build make it a great choice for gamers, office workers, and programmers alike.
Pros & Cons
| Keyboard Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| GMMK Full Size | Customizable with hot-swappable switches | Bulky design |
| Pre-built and DIY options available | Limited color options | |
| Easy to clean with removable keycaps | Limited dedicated media keys | |
| RGB lighting with multiple effects | No wireless connectivity | |
| Braided USB-C cable for durability | ||
| Compatible with most keycap sets | ||
| Affordable price point | ||
| GMMK Tenkeyless | Customizable with hot-swappable switches | No wireless connectivity |
| Pre-built and DIY options available | Limited color options | |
| Easy to clean with removable keycaps | Limited dedicated media keys | |
| RGB lighting with multiple effects | No numeric keypad | |
| Braided USB-C cable for durability | ||
| Compatible with most keycap sets | ||
| Space-saving design for portability | ||
| GMMK Compact 60% | Customizable with hot-swappable switches | No wireless connectivity |
| Pre-built and DIY options available | Limited color options | |
| Easy to clean with removable keycaps | No dedicated arrow keys or function row | |
| RGB lighting with multiple effects | No numeric keypad | |
| Braided USB-C cable for durability | ||
| Compatible with most keycap sets | ||
| Ultra-compact design for easy portability |
Are The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboards Good?
The Glorious GMMK mechanical keyboards appear to be good options for gamers and typists who value customization, durability, and a tactile typing experience. These keyboards offer hot-swappable switches, full RGB backlighting, and compatibility with a wide range of operating systems and third-party keycaps. They also come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 30-day return policy through Amazon. However, it’s worth noting that other factors such as personal preferences and budget may also impact one’s decision on whether or not these keyboards are good for them.
Should You Buy The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Gaming Keyboard?
It ultimately depends on your personal needs and preferences. However, based on the features and specifications provided in the table, the Glorious GMMK keyboards offer several desirable features such as hot swappable switches, customizable RGB backlighting, and compatibility with a wide range of keycaps. Additionally, the keyboards come with a 1-year limited warranty and have a good reputation among gamers and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, if you are looking for a modular and customizable mechanical gaming keyboard, the Glorious GMMK may be a great option to consider. However, it’s important to do your own research and determine if the features and specifications meet your specific needs before making a purchase.
Which Should You Choose? The Glorious GMMK Full Size, Tenkeyless, or Compact 60%?
The choice of which Glorious GMMK keyboard to choose depends on your personal preferences and needs.
If you prefer a keyboard with a number pad, then the Full Size GMMK would be the best option for you.
If you want a more compact keyboard without sacrificing too much functionality, the Tenkeyless GMMK may be a good choice.
On the other hand, if you want a keyboard with an even smaller footprint, and don’t mind sacrificing the number pad and some other keys, then the Compact 60% GMMK may be the right fit for you.
Ultimately, it comes down to your own preferences and needs in terms of keyboard size and functionality.
The Best Alternative to The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboards
The best alternative to the Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard would be the Ducky One 2 RGB TKL Mechanical Keyboard or the Keychron K6 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. Both of these keyboards offer similar features to the GMMK, including customizable RGB lighting and mechanical switches. Additionally, they have received positive reviews from users and are highly regarded within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboards are a great choice for gamers and enthusiasts who are looking for fully modular and customizable keyboards. The GMMK Full-Size, Tenkeyless, and 60% all feature hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily swap out switches without the need for soldering. Additionally, the keyboards feature per-key RGB lighting that can be fully customized using the GMMK software or directly from the keyboard.
The keyboards also come with pre-installed Gateron Brown Tactile Mechanical switches, which are not too loud and suitable for both gaming and office use. Moreover, the keyboards have an OEM layout, making them compatible with a wide range of third-party standard keycaps available in the market.
The GMMK keyboards have a full aluminum metal top plate and ABS plastic bottom plate, making them sturdy and durable. They also come with an ergonomic design and an in-built stand, allowing users to adjust the angle of the keyboard for a more comfortable typing experience.
In terms of warranty, the GMMK keyboards come with a free 1-year limited manufacturer warranty, and users can also return the keyboards within 30 days of delivery if they are not satisfied. Overall, the Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboards are a great investment for those who want a fully modular, customizable, and durable gaming keyboard.
FAQs
What is The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard?
The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is a modular mechanical keyboard designed and sold by Glorious PC Gaming Race. It allows users to easily swap out switches and keycaps to create a personalized typing experience.
What switch types are compatible with The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard?
The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is compatible with all standard MX-style mechanical switches, including Cherry, Gateron, Kailh, and more.
Does The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard come with keycaps?
Yes, The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard comes with a set of ABS keycaps, but users can easily replace them with their own keycaps if desired.
Can I customize the RGB lighting on The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard?
Yes, The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard features per-key RGB lighting that can be customized using software provided by Glorious PC Gaming Race.
Is The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard compatible with Macs?
Yes, The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is compatible with Macs, but some of the special function keys may not work without additional software.
Is The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard wireless?
No, The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is a wired keyboard and does not have wireless connectivity.
Can I use The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard for gaming?
Yes, The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is designed with gaming in mind and features a fast response time and customizable RGB lighting.
What sizes are available for The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard?
The Glorious GMMK Mechanical Keyboard is available in three sizes: full-size, tenkeyless, and compact.
Kizaru is a fan, collector, and has a huge addiction to mechanical keyboards. Kizaru has a collection of dozens of mechanical keyboards that come in different sizes and use different switches. He also frequently contributes to various forums that discuss keyboards such as Reddit and GeekHack.
