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Welcome back to “Reviews inside tv,” your trusted destination for in-depth and unbiased reviews of the latest tech. Today, we’re taking a look at the Glorious Custom Gaming Keyboard GMMK, a mechanical keyboard that promises to offer gamers the flexibility of a fully modular, hot-swappable design without requiring any soldering. But does it really deliver on that promise? Let’s find out.
The GMMK is a hot-swappable mechanical keyboard that allows users to easily swap out switches without the need for soldering, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts. The barebones design includes everything but the switches and keycaps, giving you full control over your setup. It features a compact TKL layout—85% of the size of a full-size keyboard—allowing for a more ergonomic typing experience while still keeping essential keys close at hand. The black metal top plate and the ABS plastic bottom give it a sturdy build that feels solid without being overly heavy.
This keyboard comes with RGB lighting on every single key, offering a stunning array of 16.8 million color options. Whether you’re into subtle lighting or something more vibrant, the customizable RGB settings are a highlight, with several pre-configured patterns accessible directly through the keyboard, no software required. If you prefer even more control, the included GMMK software lets you dive deep into the customization options.
Now, let’s talk about the most notable feature of this keyboard: the hot-swappable switches. Unlike many other mechanical keyboards, where you’d need to solder in new switches, the GMMK allows you to swap out any 3-pin mechanical switch—be it linear, tactile, or clicky—without touching a single wire. This flexibility opens up a world of possibilities for gamers who want to try out different switches, or anyone who simply wants to keep their keyboard fresh without committing to a permanent setup.
The GMMK is also designed to support RGB SMD LED-compatible switches, like Cherry, Gateron, and Kailh switches, so if you choose transparent keycaps, the RGB lighting will shine through brilliantly, creating a visually striking effect. The standard ANSI layout means it’s compatible with most third-party keycaps, so you can mix and match your design with options from brands like Keychron, Akko, and others.
When it comes to ergonomics, the keyboard doesn’t disappoint. It includes an adjustable stand that allows you to change the angle of the keyboard, which can make a big difference in terms of comfort during long gaming or typing sessions. The ergonomic design is complemented by compatibility with OEM sculpted keycaps, which support a more natural typing posture to reduce hand strain over time.
Real-world testing of this keyboard showed it performing well across a variety of tasks. From gaming to productivity, it’s versatile. The hot-swapping feature worked exactly as advertised—whether switching from linear to tactile switches for gaming or using quieter switches for work, the ease of swapping was a huge plus. During gaming sessions, the keyboard responded with satisfying key presses, and the customizable RGB lighting added to the atmosphere, especially in low-light environments. On the flip side, the lack of a full wrist rest might be a downside for those who prefer more hand support, but that’s easily remedied with aftermarket solutions.
As for the cons, there are a few areas where the GMMK could be improved. While the build quality is solid, some users might find the ABS bottom plate a bit prone to wear over time, especially when compared to higher-end models that feature full aluminum construction throughout. Also, the fact that it doesn’t support 5-pin switches out of the box may limit some users, although this can be solved with some modding by trimming the pins.
In terms of value for money, the GMMK falls in the mid-to-high price range for a mechanical keyboard. But when you factor in the versatility of hot-swappable switches, customizable RGB, and the ability to choose keycaps, it’s a solid investment for anyone who values customization. For those looking at alternatives, you might find other hot-swappable keyboards from brands like Keychron or Epomaker at similar price points, but the GMMK stands out with its premium build and RGB features. When you compare it with other mechanical keyboards in the same range, it offers good value considering its flexibility and the ability to tailor your setup.
When it comes to build quality and longevity, Glorious has a reputation for crafting durable products, and the GMMK seems to live up to that reputation. The metal top plate adds a touch of premium feel, while the ABS bottom plate isn’t as durable in the long term as some other options. However, the keyboard feels sturdy overall, and as long as it’s well taken care of, it should last a long time. While we don’t have long-term data yet, Glorious has been known for producing reliable products, and based on that track record, we can expect this keyboard to hold up well over time.
Now, let’s talk about customer support. I haven’t personally needed to contact Glorious for issues with the keyboard, but based on the feedback from users online, their customer service is known to be responsive and helpful. They also offer a one-year limited warranty with the GMMK, which gives you some peace of mind should any issues arise within that time.
This product doesn’t rely on firmware or software updates, so there’s no need to worry about updates here. It works straight out of the box, and any customization you need is handled through the GMMK software, which is also regularly updated for compatibility with new switch types and keycap sets.
So, what’s the final verdict? The Glorious GMMK Custom Gaming Keyboard is a solid choice for those who want the flexibility of hot-swappable switches and the ability to fully customize their setup with RGB lighting. It performs well in both gaming and productivity settings, with a build that feels premium enough to justify the price. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as the lack of a wrist rest and the ABS bottom plate, these are easy to overlook considering the keyboard’s versatility and the ease of customization. If you’re looking for a keyboard that allows you to experiment with different switches and design your setup the way you want, the GMMK is worth considering.
Thanks for watching, and if you’re interested in picking up the GMMK, be sure to check out the link in the comments below. If you already own this keyboard, I’d love to hear your thoughts—what’s been your experience with the GMMK? Drop a comment and let’s chat. Until next time, this is “Reviews inside tv,” signing off with a click and a keystroke!
Available to buy here:
