GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Keyboard Review: Dimensions, Build Quality, Backlighting

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard is known for its excellent build quality, which is a result of the materials used and the overall construction.

• Aluminum Frame: The keyboard features a sturdy and robust aluminum frame that provides a premium feel and added durability. This metal construction gives the GMMK 2 more rigidity and stability compared to plastic-framed keyboards.
• Double-shot PBT Keycaps: The GMMK 2 comes equipped with double-shot PBT keycaps. These keycaps are made of high-quality and durable PBT material, which is resistant to wear, shine, and fading over time. The double-shot molding process ensures that the legends on the keycaps will not wear off, as they are made from a separate layer of plastic.
• Hot-swappable Switch Sockets: The GMMK 2 features hot-swappable switch sockets, allowing users to easily replace or experiment with different mechanical switches without the need for soldering. This feature not only adds to the keyboard’s customizability but also enhances its longevity since faulty switches can be replaced with ease.
• Detachable USB-C Cable: The keyboard uses a detachable USB-C cable for connection, which reduces the risk of damaging the keyboard’s connector and makes cable management easier.
• Non-slip Rubber Feet: The GMMK 2 has rubber feet on the bottom of the keyboard to provide grip and stability during use, preventing the keyboard from sliding around on the desk.

Overall, the Glorious GMMK 2’s build quality is impressive, with a combination of premium materials, sturdy construction, and user-friendly features that cater to both casual and professional users alike.

3. Ergonomics

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard offers a variety of ergonomic features to ensure a comfortable typing experience for users. Here are some key aspects of its design that contribute to its ergonomics:

• Adjustable Feet: The GMMK 2 has adjustable feet that allow users to change the keyboard’s angle to better suit their typing preferences. These adjustments can help reduce wrist strain and promote a more comfortable typing posture.
• Keycap Profile: The GMMK 2 features a standard OEM profile for its keycaps, which is a sculpted profile that varies in height and angle across different rows. This profile is designed to provide a more natural typing experience by accommodating the different lengths of your fingers.
• Hot-swappable Switches: The ability to swap out switches easily enables users to experiment with different mechanical switches to find the most comfortable typing experience for their preferences. This customization can help reduce finger fatigue and improve overall comfort during extended typing sessions.
• Compact Size Options: The GMMK 2 is available in a compact 60% and tenkeyless (TKL) layout, which can be more ergonomic for some users. These smaller form factors allow for a reduced reach to the mouse, which can help minimize shoulder and wrist strain during extended computer use.
• Detachable USB-C Cable: The detachable cable provides flexibility in cable management, allowing users to position the keyboard in the most comfortable and ergonomic setup for their workspace.

While the GMMK 2 offers several ergonomic features, it is essential to note that it does not include some advanced ergonomic design elements, such as a split layout, tenting, or a built-in wrist rest.

However, its combination of adjustable feet, keycap profile, hot-swappable switches, and compact size options make it a comfortable and customizable keyboard for most users.

4. Backlighting

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard comes with per-key RGB backlighting, which offers users the ability to customize the appearance of their keyboard and enhance its aesthetics. Here are some features of the GMMK 2’s backlighting:

• Per-Key RGB Lighting: Each key on the GMMK 2 has its own individually controllable RGB LED, allowing users to create intricate and colorful lighting effects across the keyboard.
• Customization: The RGB lighting can be customized using the Glorious Core software, which provides users with a wide range of colors and lighting effects to choose from. These effects include static, breathing, wave, ripple, and more.
• Onboard Controls: The GMMK 2 also features onboard controls for adjusting the backlighting without the need for software. Users can cycle through different lighting effects, adjust brightness levels, and change colors using specific key combinations on the keyboard.
• Gaming Mode: Some lighting effects and profiles can be specifically tailored to enhance the gaming experience. For example, users can set up reactive lighting, where keys light up in response to being pressed, or highlight specific keys, such as WASD, for better visibility during gaming sessions.

The Glorious GMMK 2’s per-key RGB backlighting adds a visually appealing aspect to the keyboard and provides users with a high degree of customization. This feature allows users to personalize their keyboard’s appearance to match their setup, mood, or specific use cases, such as gaming or productivity.

5. Cable & Connector

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard features a detachable USB-C cable and connector, which provides flexibility and convenience for users. Here are some key aspects of the cable and connector:

• Detachable USB-C Cable: The GMMK 2 utilizes a detachable USB-C cable, allowing users to easily disconnect and reconnect the cable for transportation, cable management, or replacement. The detachable design reduces the risk of damaging the keyboard’s connector by preventing cable strain and wear.
• USB-C Connector: The USB-C connector on the GMMK 2 is a modern and widely adopted standard, ensuring compatibility with a broad range of devices. The USB-C connector is also reversible, making it easy to plug and unplug without worrying about the cable’s orientation.
• Cable Length: The cable provided with the GMMK 2 is typically around 6 feet (1.8 meters) long, offering ample length for most users to comfortably connect the keyboard to their computer or other devices.
• Braided Cable: The GMMK 2’s USB-C cable is often braided, providing increased durability and a premium feel. Braided cables are more resistant to tangling and wear compared to non-braided cables.

Overall, the Glorious GMMK 2’s detachable USB-C cable and connector design provide users with flexibility, convenience, and compatibility. This design choice enhances the keyboard’s portability and makes it easier to manage cables in various setups.

6. Wireless Versatility

As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard does not have built-in wireless capabilities. It relies on a wired USB-C connection to connect to your computer or other devices. The GMMK 2 is designed with a focus on customizability and performance, and it does not currently offer wireless versatility.

For users seeking wireless mechanical keyboards, there are other options available in the market that support Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless connections. Some popular brands offering wireless mechanical keyboards include Keychron, Logitech, and Anne Pro.

It is important to note that the wireless mechanical keyboards may have trade-offs, such as battery life management, possible input lag, or reduced customizability compared to wired keyboards like the GMMK 2. Nevertheless, they provide more flexibility in terms of cable management and can be more convenient for certain setups or users who prioritize wireless connectivity.

7. Extra Features

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard offers several extra features that enhance its usability and appeal to a wide range of users. Here are some noteworthy additional features:

• Hot-swappable Switch Sockets: The GMMK 2 allows users to easily swap out mechanical switches without soldering. This feature enables customization of the typing experience and makes it simple to replace faulty switches, prolonging the keyboard’s lifespan.
• Glorious Core Software: The Glorious Core software provides users with advanced customization options, including key remapping, macro programming, and RGB lighting control. This software allows users to fine-tune their keyboard to suit their personal preferences and specific use cases.
• N-Key Rollover (NKRO) and Anti-Ghosting: The GMMK 2 supports N-Key Rollover and Anti-Ghosting, ensuring that all key presses are accurately registered even during rapid typing or simultaneous key presses. This feature is particularly useful for gamers and fast typists.
• Multiple Layout Options: The GMMK 2 is available in various sizes, including full-size, tenkeyless (TKL), and compact (60%), catering to different space requirements and user preferences.
• Wide Switch Compatibility: The GMMK 2 is compatible with a variety of mechanical switch brands, including Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh, providing users with a wide range of options to tailor their typing experience.
• Standard Keycap Compatibility: The GMMK 2 uses a standard keycap layout, making it easy for users to find and install aftermarket keycap sets for further customization.

While the Glorious GMMK 2 does not have some features found in other keyboards, such as dedicated media keys or wireless connectivity, it offers a solid range of extra features that make it a highly customizable and versatile option for various users, including gamers, typists, and professionals.

8. In The Box

When you purchase a Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard, you can expect to find the following items included in the box:

• Glorious GMMK 2 Keyboard: The keyboard itself in the chosen size (full-size, tenkeyless, or compact) and switch configuration.
• Detachable USB-C Cable: A braided USB-C cable (usually around 6 feet / 1.8 meters long) for connecting the keyboard to your computer or other devices.
• Keycap Puller: A keycap puller tool that helps you remove keycaps safely and easily when customizing or cleaning the keyboard.
• Switch Puller: A switch puller tool designed to help you remove and replace mechanical switches on the hot-swappable keyboard.
• User Manual / Quick Start Guide: A manual or quick start guide providing setup instructions, basic information about the keyboard’s features, and instructions for using the Glorious Core software.

Please note that the specific contents of the box may vary depending on the chosen configuration or any special bundles. If you purchase a “barebones” version of the GMMK 2, it will come without keycaps and switches, requiring you to provide your own.

Always verify the package contents when purchasing, especially if you are buying from a third-party seller or in a region where product offerings may differ.

9. Keystrokes

The keystroke experience on the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard is highly customizable and dependent on the mechanical switches you choose to use.

The GMMK 2 features hot-swappable switch sockets, which allow you to easily swap out mechanical switches without soldering, providing a unique typing experience tailored to your preferences.

There are several factors that affect the keystroke experience:

• Switch Type: Mechanical switches come in various types, typically categorized as linear, tactile, or clicky. Linear switches have a smooth, consistent keystroke without tactile feedback or audible clicks. Tactile switches provide a noticeable bump during the keystroke to indicate actuation, while clicky switches include both tactile feedback and an audible click sound. The choice of switch type has a significant impact on the overall typing experience.
• Actuation Force: The force required to actuate a key varies among switches. Some switches require a lighter touch, while others need more force. The actuation force can influence typing speed, accuracy, and overall comfort during extended typing sessions.
• Keycap Material and Profile: The GMMK 2 comes with double-shot PBT keycaps, which offer a high-quality feel and long-lasting durability. The keycaps have a standard OEM profile, which is sculpted to provide a more natural typing experience by accommodating the different lengths of your fingers.
• Stabilizers: The GMMK 2 uses stabilizers on larger keys (such as spacebar, enter, and shift) to ensure a smooth and consistent keystroke. The quality of the stabilizers can impact the overall typing experience, particularly in terms of key wobble and noise.

10. Typing Quality

The typing quality on the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard is generally regarded as excellent due to its customizable nature and the use of high-quality components. Here are some factors that contribute to its typing quality:

• Switch Selection: The hot-swappable switch sockets on the GMMK 2 allow you to choose and experiment with various mechanical switches to suit your typing preferences. This flexibility enables you to find the ideal combination of tactile, linear, or clicky switches to match your desired typing feel and sound.
• Keycaps: The GMMK 2 comes with double-shot PBT keycaps, which offer a durable and premium feel. PBT keycaps are resistant to shine and wear, ensuring a consistent typing experience over time. Additionally, the double-shot molding process ensures that legends won’t wear off.
• Keycap Profile: The GMMK 2 features an OEM keycap profile, which is a sculpted profile designed to accommodate the different lengths of your fingers, providing a more comfortable and natural typing experience.
• Stabilizers: The stabilizers used in the GMMK 2 help provide a consistent and smooth typing experience on larger keys like the spacebar, enter, and shift. Good quality stabilizers reduce key wobble and noise, contributing to a satisfying and accurate typing experience.
• Build Quality: The GMMK 2’s robust aluminum frame provides a stable and solid platform for typing, ensuring minimal flex and a premium feel.

While individual preferences may vary, the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard offers a high-quality typing experience due to its customizable nature, durable keycaps, comfortable keycap profile, and sturdy build.

By taking advantage of the hot-swappable switch sockets, you can tailor the typing quality to your specific preferences, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.

11. Typing Noise

The typing noise on the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard largely depends on the type of mechanical switches and stabilizers you use, as well as your typing habits. Here are some factors that can influence the typing noise:

• Switch Type: Mechanical switches come in three main categories: linear, tactile, and clicky. Linear switches tend to be the quietest, as they have a smooth keystroke without tactile feedback or audible clicks. Tactile switches have a noticeable bump during actuation but are generally quieter than clicky switches. Clicky switches produce an audible click sound and are the loudest among the three types.
• Stabilizers: The quality and lubrication of stabilizers can impact the typing noise, particularly for larger keys such as spacebar, enter, and shift. Well-lubricated and high-quality stabilizers can help minimize rattle and noise.
• Typing Technique: How hard you press the keys and your overall typing technique can also influence the typing noise. Using a lighter touch and avoiding bottoming out the keys can reduce the noise produced during typing.
• Keycap Material: The GMMK 2 comes with PBT keycaps, which can produce a slightly different sound compared to ABS keycaps. PBT keycaps are known for their textured and slightly “thockier” sound, while ABS keycaps often have a higher-pitched, more “clacky” sound.
• Surface and Environment: The surface on which the keyboard is placed and the environment around it can also affect the typing noise. A solid desk with minimal vibration and a well-dampened environment can help reduce the perceived typing noise.

12. Latency

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard, being a wired keyboard, generally offers low latency, making it suitable for various tasks, including gaming, typing, and other professional work. Latency refers to the delay between when you press a key and when the corresponding input is registered by the computer.

Wired keyboards typically have lower latency compared to their wireless counterparts, as they are directly connected to the computer via a USB cable. This direct connection ensures a faster and more stable data transmission, resulting in minimal input lag.

The actual latency of the GMMK 2 can be influenced by a few factors:

• Switch Type: Different mechanical switches might have slightly different actuation points and travel distances, which can influence the speed at which a keypress is registered.
• USB Polling Rate: The USB polling rate is the frequency at which the computer checks for input from the keyboard. A higher polling rate can help reduce input lag. The GMMK 2 has a polling rate of 1000Hz, which is considered fast and should provide minimal latency.
• Computer Performance: The performance of your computer can also affect input latency. A computer with a faster processor and sufficient memory can process inputs more quickly, reducing overall latency.

While it is challenging to provide exact latency numbers for the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard, its wired connection, high USB polling rate, and customizable switch options should ensure a low-latency experience for most users, making it suitable for gaming, typing, and professional work.

13. Keyboard Compatibility

The Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard is compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, thanks to its standard USB-C connection. Here are some of the primary compatibility considerations:

• Operating Systems: The GMMK 2 is compatible with most popular operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. Some features, such as key remapping, macros, and RGB lighting control, may require the use of the Glorious Core software, which is available for Windows and macOS. While the Glorious Core software does not officially support Linux, the keyboard should still work as a plug-and-play device, and third-party tools may be available for customization.
• Devices: The GMMK 2 can be connected to any device that supports USB input devices, such as desktop computers, laptops, and some gaming consoles. For devices with limited USB ports or those that require an adapter, you may need a USB-C to USB-A adapter or a USB hub to connect the keyboard.
• Mechanical Switch Compatibility: The GMMK 2’s hot-swappable switch sockets are compatible with a variety of mechanical switches, including Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh, as well as their clones. This compatibility allows users to customize their keyboard with their preferred switch type.
• Keycap Compatibility: The GMMK 2 uses a standard keycap layout, making it easy to find and install aftermarket keycap sets for further customization. Most keycap sets designed for Cherry MX-style switches should be compatible with the GMMK 2.

Overall, the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard offers broad compatibility with various devices and operating systems, making it a versatile choice for users with different needs and setups. However, verifying compatibility with your specific devices and requirements is essential before purchasing to ensure the best experience.

Conclusion

Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard is a highly customizable and versatile mechanical keyboard that appeals to a wide range of users, including gamers, typists, and professionals. With its hot-swappable switch sockets, users can easily experiment with various switch types to tailor the keyboard to their specific preferences.

The GMMK 2 also features a durable aluminum frame, double-shot PBT keycaps, and a comfortable OEM keycap profile, ensuring a high-quality typing experience.

Additional features such as N-Key Rollover, anti-ghosting, and compatibility with the Glorious Core software for advanced customization make the GMMK 2 an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized, high-performance keyboard.

Although it does not offer wireless connectivity, its wired USB-C connection ensures low latency and broad compatibility with various devices and operating systems.

Overall, the Glorious GMMK 2 keyboard offers a solid blend of performance, customizability, and build quality, making it a great option for users looking to invest in a reliable and adaptable mechanical keyboard.

Read also:

GMMK Pro vs Keychron Q1: Which Is Better? 2022