GLORIOUS GMMK Keyboard Review

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Let’s dive into the GLORIOUS GMMK Keyboard Review, exploring the nuts and bolts of this intriguing keyboard. If you’re a keyboard enthusiast or just someone who types a lot, you’ve likely heard the buzz about the GLORIOUS Modular Mechanical Keyboard, affectionately known as the GMMK. This keyboard has a lot to offer, from its full-size format to its highly customizable features. But is it the right choice for you? Let’s find out together.

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The Full Package: What’s Inside?

First things first, let’s talk about what you get when you unbox the GMMK. The packaging is slick and professional, with the keyboard itself looking ready to conquer your desk setup. Included are the GMMK keyboard, a keycap puller, and a switch puller. The keyboard comes pre-installed with Gateron Brown switches, which strike a balance between tactile feedback and noise level—perfect for both gaming and office work.

Design and Build Quality

The GMMK boasts a robust build quality with its black metal top plate and ABS plastic bottom plate. This combination ensures durability while keeping the weight manageable. The keyboard feels solid and well-constructed, which is crucial if you’re someone who tends to get a little carried away during an intense gaming session or a late-night typing marathon.

Hot-Swappable Switches: A Game Changer

One of the standout features of the GLORIOUS GMMK is its hot-swappable switch design. This means you can change the switches without having to desolder anything—a blessing for those who love to tinker with their keyboards. Whether you prefer clicky, linear, or tactile switches, the GMMK accommodates them all. Simply use the included switch puller, pop out the existing switches, and snap in your preferred ones. It’s as easy as swapping Legos!

Gateron Brown Switches: The Middle Ground

Our review unit came with Gateron Brown switches. These switches offer a tactile bump without the loud click, making them a popular choice for both gamers and typists. They provide good feedback without being too noisy, so you can use them in an office setting without driving your coworkers up the wall.

RGB Lighting: Let There Be Light

The GMMK doesn’t just stop at functionality; it brings flair with full RGB lighting. Each key features 16.8 million colors, customizable through the GMMK software. Whether you want a subtle glow or a full-on disco party under your fingers, this keyboard delivers. You can create and save multiple lighting profiles, switching between them depending on your mood or activity.

Software Customization

The GMMK software, available only for Windows, is where the magic happens. It allows you to customize the lighting, program macros, and remap keys to your heart’s content. While the software isn’t the most intuitive out there, it gets the job done and opens up a world of possibilities for personalizing your keyboard.

Typing Experience: Comfort Meets Efficiency

Typing on the GMMK is a joy. The OEM sculpted keycaps are comfortable and reduce finger fatigue, which is great news for those long typing or gaming sessions. The keyboard’s adjustable feet allow you to set it at the perfect angle, improving ergonomics and comfort.

The Sound Factor

The GMMK provides a satisfying auditory experience without being overly loud. The Gateron Brown switches give a nice “thock” sound, which is quieter than the “click” of Blue switches but still satisfying enough to let you know you’ve hit the key. If you’re into sound tuning, the aluminum top plate allows for some fine-tuning, so you can achieve the exact sound profile you want.

Gaming Performance: A Mixed Bag

While the GLORIOUS GMMK shines in many areas, it does have one notable drawback—high latency. For most casual gamers, this won’t be an issue. However, if you’re into fast-paced, competitive gaming, the latency might be a deal-breaker. The difference is small but noticeable in high-stakes scenarios where every millisecond counts.

Macro Programmability

Every key on the GMMK is macro-programmable, which is a boon for gamers who rely on complex key combos. You can program macros to streamline your gameplay, making it easier to execute complicated maneuvers with just a single key press.

Office Use: A Solid Performer

The GMMK isn’t just for gamers; it’s also an excellent office keyboard. The full-size layout includes a NumPad, which is essential for anyone who deals with numbers regularly. The ability to swap switches means you can choose quieter switches for a more office-friendly typing experience.

Mac Compatibility

While the GMMK is primarily designed for Windows, it does offer some compatibility with macOS. However, not all keys and functions are supported, and the customization software is Windows-only. If you’re a Mac user, this might be a slight inconvenience, but the basic functionality remains intact.

Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek and Modern

Looks matter, and the GMMK doesn’t disappoint. Its sleek, minimalist design with customizable RGB lighting makes it a great addition to any desk setup. Whether you’re a fan of bright, flashy colors or a more subdued look, this keyboard can match your style.

Keycap Options

The GMMK’s standard ANSI layout means it’s compatible with a wide range of third-party keycaps. This opens up even more customization options, allowing you to truly make the keyboard your own. From vibrant color schemes to more professional looks, the possibilities are endless.

Ergonomics: Typing Made Comfortable

The built-in stand allows you to adjust the keyboard’s angle, which is essential for maintaining a comfortable typing posture. The OEM sculpted keycaps are designed to reduce strain on your fingers and hands, making long typing sessions much more bearable.

Long-Term Comfort

Over extended periods, the GMMK remains comfortable to use. The keycaps are designed to keep your fingers from becoming stiff, and the adjustable angle helps prevent wrist strain. For those who spend a lot of time at their keyboard, these ergonomic features are a significant plus.

Connectivity and Compatibility

The GMMK connects via USB, making it compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, PCs, PlayStation, and Xbox. This versatility means you can use the same keyboard across multiple platforms, which is convenient for those who switch between gaming on a console and working on a computer.

Cross-Platform Usability

While primarily designed for Windows, the GMMK’s cross-platform compatibility is a nice touch. Whether you’re typing up a report on your PC or gaming on your console, this keyboard has you covered. Just keep in mind the slight limitations when using it with macOS.

Warranty and Support

Glorious offers a one-year limited manufacturer warranty with the GMMK. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case of any defects or issues. Glorious also has a solid reputation for customer support, which is always a bonus when investing in a new piece of tech.

The Bottom Line: Is the GMMK Worth It?

After spending considerable time with the GLORIOUS GMMK, it’s clear that this keyboard offers a lot of value. Its hot-swappable switches, customizable RGB lighting, and solid build quality make it a standout choice. The high latency might be a drawback for competitive gamers, but for most users, this won’t be a deal-breaker.

Pros:

  • Hot-swappable switches: Easily customize your typing experience.
  • Full RGB lighting: Stunning and customizable.
  • Solid build quality: Durable and robust design.
  • Macro-programmable keys: Enhance productivity and gaming performance.
  • Ergonomic design: Comfortable for long-term use.

Cons:

  • High latency: Not ideal for fast-paced, competitive gaming.
  • Limited macOS support: Some functionality and software compatibility issues.

Final Recommendation

If you’re looking for a keyboard that offers a high degree of customization, solid build quality, and impressive RGB lighting, the GLORIOUS GMMK is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy tweaking their setup and want a keyboard that can grow with their changing preferences. While it may not be the best option for competitive gamers due to its high latency, it excels in almost every other area.

For gamers, typists, and office workers alike, the GMMK provides a versatile and enjoyable typing experience. Its hot-swappable design ensures that you can always have the perfect switch for your needs, making it a keyboard that can adapt to any situation. If you can overlook the latency issue, the GLORIOUS GMMK is a keyboard that truly lives up to its name.

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