The GLORIOUS GMMK 2, also known as the GLORIOUS Modular Mechanical Keyboard 2, is a wired-only, mechanical keyboard available in a barebones version without switches or keycaps or a fully-assembled version with linear GLORIOUS Fox switches installed. It also comes in two different size variants, a 96% full-size and a 65% compact size. Like the other keyboards in GLORIOUS' GMMK lineup, this one is also hot-swappable, meaning you can change out the stock switches for any of your choosing without having to solder. In addition to its hot-swappable PCB, it also comes with screw-in stabilizers, so you can easily replace those.
Our Verdict
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is an impressive keyboard for gaming. It feels very well-built, and its latency is amazing, making it suitable for any genre of gaming. All its keys are macro-programmable and individually backlit with bright RGB lighting, which you can customize using the companion software. Although the pre-travel distance on the stock linear switches is a bit higher than other linear-style switches, this keyboard is hot-swappable, meaning you can change out these switches for any of your choosing. Unfortunately, its overall ergonomics are only okay as it's a high-profile board and lacks a wrist rest.
- Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement.
- Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys.
- Amazing latency.
- Wired-only.
- No wrist rest included.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is a very good office keyboard. Its typing quality is excellent. It has double-shot ABS keycaps that feel nice to type on, and the linear GLORIOUS Fox switches feel light to actuate and don't make much noise, which is great for open office environments. Although linear switches may not be the best for typing as they lack tactile feedback, this keyboard is hot-swappable, so you can change out the stock switches for any that you prefer. In addition to its excellent build quality, this keyboard is also fully compatible with Windows and mostly compatible with Linux and macOS, with the exception of a few keys. Unfortunately, it's a high-profile board, but it doesn't come with a wrist rest, which would improve the comfort overall. Also, it's wired-only, so it's not suitable for a multi-device setup.
- Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement.
- Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys.
- Doubleshot ABS keycaps feel higher quality compared to others.
- Wired-only.
- No wrist rest included.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 isn't suited for use with mobile devices as it's a wired-only keyboard.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is a great keyboard for programming. It feels very well-built and excellent to type on. The RGB backlighting shines through each key individually, so the key legends are easy to see in the dark. Each key is macro-programmable using the companion software; however, the companion software is only available on Windows. That said, it has onboard memory, so you can carry your saved settings to other operating systems like Linux and macOS, where the keyboard works as intended with the exception of a few keys. On the downside, it's a wired-only keyboard, so you can't pair it wirelessly with multiple devices. Also, it has a high profile and doesn't come with a wrist rest, which would improve the overall comfort during use.
- Hot-swappable PCB for easy switch replacement.
- Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys.
- Doubleshot ABS keycaps feel higher quality compared to others.
- Wired-only.
- No wrist rest included.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is a poor keyboard to use with a home theater setup. It isn't wireless, so you'll have to connect it directly to your HTPC, which means more cable management across the room. It also lacks a trackpad or any navigational tool, so you'll have to use a separate peripheral to navigate on-screen menus. Also, the media keys are only accessible through hotkeys rather than being dedicated, which may be annoying if you want to quickly pause or rewind content. On the upside, its RGB backlighting is bright and makes the keys easy to see in the dark.
- Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys.
- Wired-only.
- No wrist rest included.
- Full RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys.
- Wired-only.
- No wrist rest included.
Changelog
- Updated Nov 29, 2023: We've added a link to the newly-reviewed ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless in the Single Key Latency section of this review.
- Updated Nov 29, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.3.1, which adds a new estimated PCB latency test to the Single-Key Latency section and a new Analog test to the Switches section of this review. You can see the full changelog here.
- Updated Nov 21, 2023: We identified a testing issue with this keyboard wherein we didn't properly filter out the end point of our data set before calculating the averages to produce our Latency results. We've now recalculated the Single Key Latency and Multi-Key Latency scores with the endpoint properly filtered out, and both scores have lowered slightly.
- Updated Oct 27, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.3, which overhauls how key input is evaluated. We've added new tests for Single Key Latency, Multi Key Latency, Data Transmission, and Chord Split. We've also introduced a new Raw Performance usage and adjusted how the Gaming and Office usage scores are calculated. You can see the full changelog here.
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Differences Between Sizes And Variants
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 comes in a 96% full-size and a 65% compact size. It also comes in three colorways: black, white, and pink. We purchased the pre-assembled, full-size unit in black, which comes with linear GLORIOUS Fox switches. We expect the results to remain consistent across colorways and size variants, though the keystrokes and typing experience will feel different with other switches installed. You can also purchase a barebones version of the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 that doesn't include pre-installed keycaps or switches and choose from a wider selection of switch brands and types to buy separately. You can see the label of our unit here.
Popular Keyboard Comparisons
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is a wired-only, mechanical keyboard designed for gaming use. The pre-assembled version only comes with linear GLORIOUS Fox switches, which have a higher pre-travel distance than other linear-style switches, like Cherry MX Reds. However, this keyboard is fully hot-swappable and customizable from the PCB up, like other keyboards in GLORIOUS' GMMK series, so you can change out these stock switches for any you prefer. Overall, the latency on the GMMK 2 is low enough to handle fast-paced games without a delay; however, it's still a bit higher than premium pre-built options like those from Razer, Corsair, and SteelSeries.
If you're interested in other options, check out the picks for the best gaming keyboards, the best mechanical keyboards, and the best keyboards.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 3 and GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are mechanical gaming keyboards in the same lineup.
Both are designed with modularity and customizability in mind. While they're available in prebuilt configurations, you can also customize various parts and colors on GLORIOUS' website. The GMMK 3 is newer and features a new gasket mount design that provides a slightly softer typing experience. It also has somewhat better gaming performance. On the other hand, the GMMK 2 has a standard top mount design and a slightly more compact (96%) form factor.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are two similar hot-swappable keyboards, but they have a few differences. The GMMK PRO comes in a 75% form factor and has a programmable knob in the top right corner whereas the GMMK 2 comes in a 96% full-size or a 65% compact size. The GMMK 2 has slightly improved latency over the GMMK PRO.
The HyperX Alloy Origins 65 and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are mechanical gaming keyboards, but the HyperX performs better for this use. The HyperX has better latency, and a better build quality as it uses PBT keycaps rather than ABS. Also, it's stock switches have a shorter pre-travel distance than the stock switches on the GLORIOUS. That said, the GLORIOUS is hot-swappable, so you can change these switches out without needing to solder.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are both mechanical keyboards designed for gaming use. However, the SteelSeries performs better overall for this use as it has lower latency, and it has a unique feature that allows you to adjust the pre-travel distance on a per-key basis. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is hot-swappable, so you're able to swap out the stock switches for any of your choosing.
The GLORIOUS GMMK and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are very similar mechanical keyboards that are designed to be customizable. However, the GMMK 2 has some improvements over the GMMK including lower latency, a better build quality, and better RGB backlighting. Also, the full-size of the GMMK 2 is slightly smaller as it eliminates a few keys and the spaces between the Numpad, arrow keys, and alphanumeric keys.
The Drop CTRL and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are two hot-swappable, mechanical keyboards designed for different uses. The GLORIOUS is better suited for gaming and has better latency and more gaming-oriented extra features. Also, it has companion software, so you can program macros to any key and customize the RGB backlighting. On the other hand, the Drop uses PBT keycaps, which feel more premium, and it has an additional USB-C port to plug in additional devices if you need to.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 and the Keychron Q5 are two full-size (96%) customizable keyboards designed with different uses in mind. The GLORIOUS caters to a more gaming-oriented crowd and has significantly better latency, while the Keychron is better designed as a hobbyist or typist keyboard, so it has a more premium build quality and includes a small toolkit to help you customize the keyboard.
The Ducky One 3 and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are both wired-only, hot-swappable mechanical keyboards that come in a variety of sizes and colorways. You can purchase the Ducky pre-assembled in a wide range of switch brands and styles whereas the pre-assembled GLORIOUS only comes with one type of stock switch. That said, you can also purchase a barebones version of the GLORIOUS and choose from more switch options to purchase separately and install yourself. Performance-wise, the Ducky has lower latency, but the GLORIOUS comes with companion software so you can program macros and customize the RGB backlighting.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 and the Keychron Q4 are both customizable keyboards with some key differences. The GLORIOUS is designed for gaming as it has significantly better latency. However, the pre-assembled version only comes with linear switches, so if you want a different switch type, you'll have to buy a barebones version to purchase and install the switches yourself. On the other hand, the Keychron is better suited for general use or typing as it has a better build quality out of the box. Also, you can choose from more switch options when purchasing a pre-assembled version.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 and the NZXT Function are both wired-only, hot-swappable keyboards. They perform extremely similarly, but they have different purchasing options. The pre-assembled version of the GMMK 2 only comes with linear GLORIOUS Fox switches. For any other switch option, you'll have to buy a barebones version and purchase and install the switches separately. Conversely, the Function comes with a wide selection of Gateron switches pre-installed, so you don't have to purchase switches separately unless you want to.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 and the Keychron Q6 are both hot-swappable, customizable keyboards designed for different primary uses. The GLORIOUS is more gaming-focused and has significantly better latency. On the other hand, the Keychron is more oriented towards office and productivity tasks. It has a better overall build quality and includes a small toolkit to help you customize your keyboard.
The IQUNIX F97 and the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 are mechanical keyboards with Compact (96%) form factors. The IQUNIX is a wireless model that lets you connect via Bluetooth with up to three devices simultaneously or with a USB receiver. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is a wired-only model that you can purchase as a pre-built keyboard or as a barebones kit. It has better latency, making it more suitable for competitive gaming. It's also designed more with hardware customizability in mind.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 and the Keychron Q Pro Series are highly customizable mechanical keyboards. The GLORIOUS is a wired-only model with a plastic case and a Comapct (96%) layout. It has slightly better ergonomics than the Q Pro Series boards, as it has a pair of flip-out feet that provide an additional incline setting. On the other hand, the Keychron Q Pro Series keyboards are wireless and have aluminum cases. The Q Pro Series boards also have a gasket-mounted design that provides a softer, more cushioned typing experience.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 and the NuPhy Halo96 are mechanical keyboards. The GMMK 2 is a wired-only model with a 96% compact form factor. It also has lower latency, making it a better choice for competitive gaming. On the other hand, the NuPhy Halo96 is a wireless model with a 96% compact form factor but is also available in smaller-size variants. The NuPhy Halo keyboards also feature layers of sound-dampening silicone and have an RGB lighting strip around the outside edge of the keyboard.
Test Results
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 comes in a 96% full-size layout, meaning it has a row of dedicated function keys, a navigation cluster, and a Numpad, but the space between the sections of the keyboard is smaller to provide a more compact size. It's also missing a few keys from the navigation cluster normally found on a 100% keyboard. It's also available in a compact 65% form factor if you need to open up more space on your desk.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 feels very well-built. The chassis is made from premium-feeling plastic, while the top plate is made from aluminum and carries over the sides of the keyboard. All in all, it feels very solid and well-built. Inside the board, there's sound-dampening foam to help reduce higher-pitched pings and rattles from stabilizers or switches. Although the keycaps are textured ABS rather than PBT, they're doubleshot and feel much higher quality than the ABS keycaps found on the previous version of this keyboard, the GLORIOUS GMMK. Also, since the keycaps are doubleshot, you won't have to worry about the legends fading over time from finger oil. The keys themselves feel very stable; there's a bit of wobble from the larger keys, but it isn't distracting during typical use. This keyboard is also hot-swappable, so you can replace the stock switches easily without soldering. You can easily replace the screw-in stabilizers as well. If you want a full-size (96%) hot-swappable keyboard with an even better build quality, check out the Keychron Q5.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 has okay ergonomics. It's a high-profile keyboard with two incline settings that feel stable when in use. However, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, which would help improve the overall comfort for long periods. Fortunately, you can purchase a wrist rest separately from GLORIOUS.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 has outstanding RGB backlighting. Each key is individually-lit, and you can easily customize the colors and effects using the companion software.
The color mixing is improved over the previous versions of this keyboard, so the whites are very clear. The top key legends are shine-through, but the hotkey legends printed on the side of the keycaps aren't. It means you can view them clearly while seated, but the RGB backlighting won't illuminate them, making them hard to see in the dark.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 comes with a good quality, braided USB-A to USB-C cable. You can detach it, so you can replace it with another cable if you desire. Unfortunately, it does retain kinks from packaging.
This is a wired-only keyboard. If you're interested in a customizable keyboard that connects wirelessly, check out the Keychron Q Pro Series.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 has a few extra features. Most importantly, it's hot-swappable, so you can change out the stock GLORIOUS switches for any you want without having to solder. The media keys, lighting settings, and profile settings are all accessible through hotkeys, which you can find in the user manual. Using the companion software, you can also change your set polling rate to a maximum of 1000Hz and alter the input latency. In addition, this keyboard also has full N-key rollover, so you won't have to worry about missing a keypress.
- GLORIOUS GMMK 2
- USB-A to USB-C cable
- Switch puller
- Keycap puller
- Extra GLORIOUS keycap
- GLORIOUS branded sticker
- User documentation
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 provides an excellent typing experience. The doubleshot ABS keycaps have a slight texture, which feels nice to type on. Although they don't feel as premium as PBT keycaps, they still feel more high quality than most ABS keycaps on comparable boards. While the board is slightly more compact to save space, the keys have a standard layout and don't feel cramped to type on. The keys themselves feel stable; there's a bit more wobble on the larger keys, but it isn't distracting. The sound dampening foam inside the board gives the typing a satisfying sound while typing. On the downside, this keyboard has a high profile and lacks an included wrist rest, which would help to alleviate some of the wrist fatigue from straining your wrists upwards during use.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is quiet to type on with the linear GLORIOUS Fox switches installed. Since this board is hot-swappable, you can easily replace the stock switches for any switches of your liking; however, different switches make different sounds, and some, like a clicky switch, are noisier than others. If you're interested in a quieter keyboard that has layers of silicone sound-dampening material inside the case, check out the NuPhy Halo96.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 comes with linear GLORIOUS Fox switches. However, since this keyboard is hot-swappable, you can change out these stock switches for any that you want without having to solder. If you want a hot-swappable keyboard with a wider range of stock switch options, check out the IQUNIX F97 or the NZXT Function.
Although the GLORIOUS Fox switches have a fairly high pre-travel distance compared with other linear switches, they don't take much force to actuate, so they still feel responsive. They also don't have a tactile bump to overcome, so the whole keypress feels smooth.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 has impressive single-key latency. These test results were obtained using the lowest (2ms) input setting and highest polling rate (1000Hz) in the software. The latency is low enough to handle fast-paced and competitive games.
If you're interested in a similar gaming keyboard with a compact 96% layout but with better latency performance, check out the ASUS ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 uses the Glorious Core companion software, which is simple to use. Using the software, you can set macros, reassign keys, adjust the input latency and polling rate, and customize the RGB backlighting. You can save three profiles onto its onboard memory, and you can have up to three layers of programming and lighting settings per profile. The profiles are accessible through hotkeys found in the user manual.
The GLORIOUS GMMK 2 is fully compatible with Windows. Most keys work as intended on Linux and macOS, except that the Print Screen button and a few hotkeys, like the calculator button, don't work on macOS. There's no software available for Linux or macOS, but you can save your settings to the keyboard's onboard memory on a Windows system, meaning you can access them on devices that don't have the software.