The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones keyboard that doesn't come with keycaps or switches. It's highly customizable since you can change the cable, get a different rotary knob color, and even replace the included aluminum PCB switch plate for a brass or polycarbonate one. While we got GLORIOUS Panda switches with GLORIOUS PBT keycaps, you can purchase and install any switches or keycaps that you'd like. It's a 75% compact board with spaced dedicated navigation keys, including arrow keys. It has RGB backlighting with individually-lit keys, and you can customize the lighting and set macros to any key within the Glorious Core software. Unfortunately, while it has a fairly high profile, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, so you may need to buy one separately. At the time of writing, the board can only be reserved and purchased from the GLORIOUS website.
Note: We purchased the GLORIOUS Panda switches and GLORIOUS PBT Rain Forest keycaps from the official website, but your experience will vary if you purchase and install different switches and keycaps.
Our Verdict
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is great for gaming and feels incredibly well-built, thanks to its all-aluminum chassis and base plate. It has RGB backlighting, macro-programmable keys, and a programmable rotary knob. The GLORIOUS Panda switches on the unit we bought and tested have a satisfying tactile bump, but the overall feeling is still somewhat light and responsive. But thanks to its hot-swappable PCB, you can also use switches of your choosing.
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Feels incredibly well-built.
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All keys are macro-programmable.
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Programmable rotary knob.
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Extremely customizable.
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No wrist rest or incline settings.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is good for office use. Thanks to its all-aluminum chassis and base plate, it feels incredibly well-built. It's sold barebones, so it doesn't come with switches or keycaps; however, it's hot-swappable, so you can easily put in whichever switches you prefer based on your needs. The GLORIOUS Panda switches we purchased require some force to actuate a key, but the overall feeling remains somewhat light. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a wrist rest despite its fairly high profile, and it doesn't have any incline settings.
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Feels incredibly well-built.
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All keys are macro-programmable.
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Programmable rotary knob.
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Extremely customizable.
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No wrist rest or incline settings.
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Wired-only board.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a wired keyboard that isn't meant for mobile or tablet use.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is great for programming. Its all-aluminum body feels incredibly well-built, and it also has programmable RGB backlighting, remappable and macro-programmable keys. Unfortunately, since it's a wired board, you can't connect it to more than one device at a time, but it's compatible with Windows, Linux, and macOS, although a few functions don't work on macOS. Also, despite its fairly high profile, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, and it doesn't have any incline settings.
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Feels incredibly well-built.
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All keys are macro-programmable.
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Programmable rotary knob.
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Extremely customizable.
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No wrist rest or incline settings.
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Wired-only board.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO isn't for use with a home theater PC since it's a wired keyboard. It doesn't have a trackpad, so you have to have a mouse on the side to navigate. However, it does have superb backlighting, media keys, and a programmable rotary knob.
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Feels incredibly well-built.
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Programmable rotary knob.
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No trackpad.
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Wired-only board.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO provides very good raw performance with great single-key and very good multi-key latency. It also has an effective polling rate of 1000Hz that's used effectively without being bottlenecked by other latency components.
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Feels incredibly well-built.
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Programmable rotary knob.
- Gaming
- Office
- Mobile/Tablet
- Programming
- Entertainment / HTPC
- Raw Performance
- Updated Aug 30, 2023: We've added text to this review for the new tests added in TBU 1.3.
- Updated Aug 30, 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.
- Updated Jun 12, 2023: We've added a link to the ASUS ROG Azoth in the Wireless Versatility section of this review.
- Updated May 18, 2023: We've added a link to the newly-reviewed Epomaker TH80 Pro in the Wireless Versatility section of this review.
- Updated May 12, 2023: We've added details about South-Facing LEDs in the Hardware Customization section and a link to an image in the Backlight Clarity section to show what the backlighting looks like with shine-through keycaps.
- Updated May 12, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.2. This update introduces new Backlight Features and Backlight Clarity test boxes. We've also added a new Switches test box, added additional test comparisons to our Hardware Customizability test box that we introduced with our last Test Bench. For an in-depth look at our changes, you can see our full changelog here.
- Updated Apr 26, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.1. This update adds several new tests addressing Hardware Customization, Macro Keys And Programming, and Wireless Mobile Compatibility. We've also added new objective evaluations to the Typing Noise test, and we've simplified several tests and removed several others that were no longer relevant. For an in-depth look at all our changes, you can see our full changelog here.
- Updated Jan 26, 2023: We've added mention of the Keychron S Series keyboards in the Dimensions section of this review.
- Updated Sep 06, 2022: Added in a comparison to the recently reviewed Keychron V1.
- Updated Sep 01, 2022: Retested the keyboard with the latest firmware version (v0045) to measure the impact on latency. There were no changes to latency results.
- Updated Nov 02, 2021: Updated the firmware to v0041 and retested the latency.
- Updated Jul 08, 2021: Measured the latency with the QMK firmware flashed onto the keyboard.
- Updated Jun 03, 2021: Review published.
- Updated May 31, 2021: Early access published.
- Updated May 26, 2021: Our testers have started testing this product.
- Updated May 25, 2021: The product has arrived in our lab, and our testers will start evaluating it soon.
- Updated May 05, 2021: We've purchased the product and are waiting for it to arrive in our lab.
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Differences Between Sizes And Variants
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is available in Black Slate and White Ice. We tested the Black Slate variant with GLORIOUS Panda mechanical switches and GPBT Rain Forest keycaps. Note that this board comes barebones, and you need to buy the switches and keycaps separately, so your results may vary since you can install any switches and keycaps you want.
Compared To Other Keyboards
Unlike most keyboards we've tested, the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones, hot-swappable board that doesn't come with switches or keycaps. It's designed for people who want to build a custom board, whether you're an enthusiast or a beginner. That said, it offers more customizations than pre-built keyboards we've tested, from the keycaps and switches to the material of the switch plate.
For other options, see our recommendations for the best keyboards, the best gaming keyboards, and the best mechanical keyboards.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones gaming keyboard that doesn't come with switches or keycaps, and the Keychron Q1 we got is a fully-assembled hot-swappable board. However, there's also a barebones variant of the Q1. While the Keychron doesn't come with a rotary knob installed on the board like the GLORIOUS does, you can get one separately and install it yourself. Both boards have RGB backlighting, but since the Gateron Phantom Brown switches on our Keychron have a brown casing, setting the backlighting to white ends up looking red. Neither board has a wrist rest or incline settings, but both could use one due to their high profiles.
The Keychron Q2 and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both wired mechanical keyboards with hot-swappable switches, meaning you can swap out the stock switches for any compatible switch type. The GMMK PRO is a 75% form factor, meaning it has a row of function keys at the top and has a programmable knob. It also has significantly better latency. On the other hand, the Q2 is more compact with 65% form factor, and the programmable knob is only on certain variants. Also, the Q2 has software fully compatible with both Windows and macOS, while the GMMK PRO's software only works on Windows.
The GLORIOUS GMMK and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both wired gaming keyboards, but the GMMK is a full-size prebuilt board, while the GMMK PRO is a 75% barebones board. The GMMK comes with Gateron Brown switches, but you can always switch them out if you want a different feel. On the other hand, the GMMK PRO doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can buy and install whichever ones you want. Also, it has a programmable rotary knob. Both are compatible with easy-to-use customization software to remap keys, set macros, and adjust the backlighting.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Keychron Q Pro Series keyboards are customizable mechanical keyboards with hot-swappable PCBs. The GLORIOUS is a wired-only model. On the other hand, the Keychron is a wireless model. The Keychron also has a gasket-mounted design, providing a softer, springier typing experience.
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 GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the ASUS ROG Azoth are mechanical gaming keyboards with hot-swappable PCBs. The GLORIOUS is a wired-only model with a better build quality. It also provides better overall customizability and is available either as a barebones kit or as a prebuilt that you can customize with a much wider variety of options at the time of purchase. On the other hand, the Azoth is a wireless model that's only available in various stock ROG NX switches. That said, it provides better overall gaming performance. It also has a programmable OLED screen and a gasket-mounted design, providing a slightly better typing experience.
The HyperX Alloy Origins and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both gaming keyboards; however, the HyperX is a full-size prebuilt board, while the GLORIOUS is a 75% compact barebones board. The GLORIOUS doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can buy and install any type you prefer. On the other hand, the HyperX is available with linear Hyper X Red, tactile HyperX Aqua, and clicky HyperX Blue switches. Also, its customization software offers cloud sync and the option to create and save more profiles.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the HyperX Alloy Origins 65 are both wired mechanical keyboards designed for gaming use, but the HyperX performs slightly better for this use as it has better latency. The HyperX also has two incline settings for better ergonomics. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is hot-swappable, meaning you can change out the stock switches for any that you prefer. It also has a programmable knob in the top right corner, which you can use for volume control or other functions.
The Epomaker TH80 Pro and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are mechanical keyboards with a compact (75%) form factor. The Epomaker is a wireless model with an all-plastic construction and is available in two different keycap themes and several switch options. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is a wired-only model with a more premium-feeling aluminum case construction and is available with a broader range of stock keycaps and switch types.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the NZXT Function are both wired-only, hot-swappable keyboards. You can customize both keyboards before purchase, but the GLORIOUS offers a wider selection of switch brands and types, keycaps, and customizable components. However, the GLORIOUS isn't pre-assembled, so you'll have to install the keycaps and switches yourself, while you can choose to have your configuration of the NZXT arrive fully assembled.
The SteelSeries Apex Pro and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both gaming keyboards, but the SteelSeries is a full-size and prebuilt board, while the GLORIOUS is a 75% compact barebones board. The GLORIOUS doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can install whichever ones you prefer. On the other hand, the SteelSeries comes with proprietary OmniPoint linear switches, which lets you adjust the operating force to your preference. If you plan on playing fast-paced games, the SteelSeries is a better choice since it has a lower latency.
The Obinslab Anne Pro 2 is an amazing prebuilt keyboard for gaming, whereas the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones keyboard suitable for various uses. The Obinslab is a 60% compact board with no dedicated function row or arrow keys, but you can use it wired and wirelessly. It has incredibly low latency when used wired, making it an ideal choice for gaming. It's available with a variety of Cherry MX, Gateron, and Kailh switches. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can choose whichever ones you prefer. It has a programmable rotary knob, media hotkeys, and a Windows key lock.
The Drop ALT and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both compact gaming keyboards. However, the Drop ALT is a 65% compact prebuilt board with a USB passthrough. It's available with many different switch types, and you can also buy it barebones if you prefer to add the switches and keycaps yourself. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is sold as a barebones board only. It has dedicated navigation keys as the Drop does, but the GLORIOUS also has a programmable rotary knob and a dedicated F-row.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Keychron V Series are customizable, mechanical keyboards. These are intended for a hobbyist crowd looking to fully customize their typing experience, so you can purchase each keyboard as a barebones version without keycaps and switches installed. However, you'll have to buy all components of the GLORIOUS separately and put everything together yourself, while Keychron offers pre-assembled versions that already have the switches and keycaps installed. If you're looking to game, the GLORIOUS is a better option as its latency is much lower than the Keychrons'.
The SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both mechanical keyboards, but the SteelSeries is a prebuilt gaming board, and the GLORIOUS is barebones and doesn't come with switches nor keycaps. The SteelSeries has an OLED screen and a USB passthrough, and it's available with SteelSeries Red, Brown, and Blue switches. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS can be physically customized much easier, from its switches and keycaps to its cable and PCB switch plate. It's available in two colors, Black Slate and White Ice.
The Ducky One 2 RGB TKL and the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO are both wired gaming keyboards, but the Ducky is a prebuilt TenKeyLess available with a variety of Cherry MX switches. While the Ducky has customization software, you can only change the RGB backlighting, and all macros need to be set from the board itself. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is a barebones 75% compact board, so you need to buy and install the switches and keycaps yourself. It has customization software that lets you remap keys, set macros, and adjust the backlighting.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Keychron Q7 are both compact, customizable keyboards. A major difference is their size, as the GLORIOUS is a compact (75%) keyboard, meaning it has a full function row, dedicated arrow keys, and a few buttons in the navigational cluster. On the other hand, the Q7 is a compact (70%) keyboard, so it lacks a function row but keeps more of the navigational cluster. Another major difference is that the GLORIOUS is only available barebones, so while you can configure your build on the website, you'll have to put it together upon delivery, while the Keychron has the option of a barebones or a pre-assembled unit.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Keychron Q4 are both customizable keyboards, with some differences. You can only purchase the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO as a barebones version, meaning you'll have to buy the switches and keycaps separately. With the Keychron models, you can buy a pre-assembled version with the switches and keycaps included. Also, the GMMK PRO is better suited for gamers looking for a custom build as it has better latency.
The Ducky One 2 Mini V2 is a great gaming keyboard if you want something prebuilt, while the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones keyboard for mixed usage. The Ducky is a compact 60% keyboard with no dedicated function row or arrow keys. It's available with a variety of Cherry MX, Gateron, Kailh, and TTC switches. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can choose whichever ones you like most. It comes in two colors and has a programmable rotary knob which you can also swap for a different color. The GLORIOUS also has much lower latency once you update it to the latest firmware.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Mountain Everest Max are two customizable keyboards, but they're customizable in different ways. The GLORIOUS is a 75% barebones keyboard that doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, meaning you have to buy those separately to personalize it to your liking. On the other hand, the Mountain is sold with keycaps and switches, and it's a full-size modular keyboard, so it comes with a Numpad and media dock, but you can place them how you like or remove them entirely. Also, the switches are hot-swappable, so you can put in whichever you prefer, and the Mountain is also sold in a barebones variant like the GLORIOUS.
The Keychron K6 is a good prebuilt keyboard for office use, while the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones keyboard suited for many uses. The Keychron is a 65% board that you can use both wired and wirelessly, and it's available with Gateron Red, Blue, or Brown switches. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS is a wired 75% board that doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can get any ones you prefer. Unlike the Keychron, the GLORIOUS comes with customization software, so you can remap the keys, set macros, and customize the RGB backlighting. Both have dedicated navigation keys and arrow keys, but the GLORIOUS has a dedicated F-row and a programmable rotary knob.
The Ducky One 2 Mini V1 is an excellent prebuilt keyboard for gaming, while the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones keyboard for mixed usage. The Ducky is much more compact and lacks the dedicated function row and arrow keys that the GLORIOUS has. The Ducky is available with a variety of switches and in different colors. On the other hand, the GLORIOUS doesn't come with any switches or keycaps, so you can choose whichever ones you want. It comes in two colors, and there's a programmable rotary knob which you can also swap for a different color. The GLORIOUS also has lower latency, as long as you have it updated to the latest firmware.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the System76 Launch are two wired-only, hot-swappable mechanical keyboards that come in a compact size. However, the GLORIOUS is for gaming use, so it has significantly better latency, the ability to program macros, and a rotary encoder knob in the top right corner. On the other hand, the System76 is better suited for productivity uses, so it has better ergonomics as it comes with one incline setting, and it has extra USB ports, meaning it can act like a USB hub. Also, you can completely reconfigure the key layout to best suit your preferences.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebones, compact 75% keyboard, while the Drop CTRL is a prebuilt, hot-swappable, TenKeyLess board. We purchased the GLORIOUS with a set of GLORIOUS Panda switches and GLORIOUS PBT keycaps, but you can separately buy and install any switches or keycaps you like. The GLORIOUS also has much lower latency and customization software, which the Drop keyboard lacks. On the other hand, the Drop we bought has Cherry MX Brown switches and PBT keycaps, but it's also hot-swappable and available in a range of other stock switches. While it doesn't have customization software, you can adjust settings with the QMK firmware tool on the Drop website.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Keychron S Series are wired mechanical keyboards with hot-swappable PCBs. The GLORIOUS is compatible with a much wider range of switch types and has lower latency, making it a better pick for gaming. On the other hand, the Keychrons have a low-profile design and feature robust software for customization. However, their hot-swappable PCBs are only compatible with Gateron Low Profile mechanical switches. It's important to note that the GLORIOUS is only available in a barebones version without pre-installed switches or keycaps, while the Keycrhon is a fully-assembled unit.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO and the Keychron Q3 are wired-only, mechanical keyboards with hot-swappable PCBs. The GLORIOUS is for gaming use, so it has better latency, a Windows key lock feature, and better RGB backlighting. On the other hand, the Keychron Q3 is for office and productivity use. Its companion software is available on macOS and Linux, so the keyboard is compatible with these systems. It's important to note that the GLORIOUS only comes in a barebones version without pre-installed switches or keycaps, while the Keychron is available fully-assembled and in a barebones variant.
Test Results
The height and weight of the GLORIOUS GMMK PRO that we measured includes the switches and keycaps that are bought separately. If you're interested in a keyboard with a similar form factor that's much lighter, check out the Keychron V Series, which includes the compact (75%) Keychron V1. Or, for slimmer, low-profile options, check out the Keychron S Series.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO feels incredibly well-built. It's made of a full aluminum chassis and base plate, both of which feel very solid and don't flex at all. There are four small circular rubber feet on the underside that provide great grip, although the heavy weight of the board might help with this. The GPBT Rain Forest keycaps we purchased for the board have dye sublimation legends that feel great and durable, but this may vary depending on the keycaps you install. While the alphanumerical keys have a slight wobble to them, it isn't very noticeable while typing. However, the Tab, Caps Lock, | \ key, and the right Shift all wobble a lot more and are noticeable when typing.
To see a detailed shot of our unit with no keycaps and with no switches, click here.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO has unremarkable ergonomics. It's a straight board with no incline settings and a fairly high profile. Unfortunately, it doesn't come with a wrist rest, but GLORIOUS does sell some.
Note that this keyboard has south-facing LEDs which aren't ideal if you're interested in using use keycaps with shine-through legends. For more information, see the Backlight Clarity test below.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO has RGB backlighting, with individually-lit keys. You can adjust the brightness levels and customize the colors and effects from the Glorious Core software.
The board is only decent at color mixing, so if you want to set your lighting to white, there are some hints of pink in some areas. The GLORIOUS GPBT keycaps we bought aren't shine-through, so it's hard to see the key legends in a dark room. If you're interested in what the backlight clarity looks like with shine--through keycaps, we've taken a photo with several shine-through keycaps to give you an idea.
Our GLORIOUS GMMK PRO unit comes with a black, USB-C to USB-A braided cable. It feels good quality, but it does kink easily. Note that if you get the White Ice variant, the cable is white.
This is a wired-only keyboard. If you're interested in a wireless alternative, check out the Epomaker TH80 Pro or the ASUS ROG Azoth.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO has many extra features, including a clickable and programmable knob which you can easily swap out for a different color. While the secondary functions aren't labeled on the GPBT keycaps we bought, there are many hotkeys to control media, lock the Windows key, and cycle through profiles and layers. You can find all of them in the online user guide. The RGB strips on both sides of the board flash when Caps Lock is on. However, if you're interested in a hot-swappable keyboard that's also completely reconfigurable, meaning you can change the layout of any of its keys, check out the System76 Launch.
This is a barebones keyboard which doesn't come with switches or keycaps. We divided our list below by what comes in the box with the board and what we purchased separately. While our photo above shows the switches and keycaps installed, you can see a photo of the board disassembled here.
Included in the box:
- Barebones GLORIOUS GMMK PRO keyboard
- Detachable cable
- Keycap puller tool
- Switch puller tool
- Braided USB-C to USB-A cable
- Stickers
- Extra gasket strips
- Advisory/Warranty card
- Pamphlet about where to find user guide online
Sold separately:
- 3 boxes of GLORIOUS Panda mechanical switches (36 switches per box)
- GPBT Rain Forest keycaps
Our GLORIOUS GMMK PRO unit with GPBT Rain Forest keycaps and GLORIOUS Panda switches provides an excellent typing experience. The switches provide nice tactile feedback, and although they require some force to actuate, the overall feeling is still somewhat light. The board has a fairly high profile, and it doesn't come with a wrist rest, so this may cause wrist strain for some people. The alphanumerical keys, Spacebar, and Enter key all wobble a small amount, but it isn't too noticeable during regular use. Unfortunately, the Tab, Caps Lock, | \ key, and right Shift key wobble noticeably while typing. Note that our results are only applicable if you get the same switches and keycaps that we did. Since you can install any switches and keycaps you want to the board, your results may vary.
Our GLORIOUS GMMK PRO unit is quiet, but this can vary depending on the switches you install.
The GLORIOUS Panda switches we purchased for our GLORIOUS GMMK PRO unit require some force to actuate and may cause fatigue for some, but the overall feeling remains somewhat light. However, since the barebones board doesn't come with switches, you can install any switch you want, so these results will vary depending on the brand and type you install.
This keyboard provides impressive single-key latency. This performance is consistent and provides a responsive-feeling experience for casual or competitive gaming.
This keyboard provides very good and reasonably consistent multi-key latency performance, making it suitable for playing games requiring inputs while multiple keys are pressed and maintained.
This keyboard offers great data transmission performance, with full n-key rollover and the ability to send multiple keys per USB report. It also has an effective rate of 1000Hz that matches its polling rate of 1000Hz.
This keyboard has decent chord split performance with fairly low 4-chord and 8-chord split delay.
The Glorious Core software is very user-friendly and easy to use. You can set macros, change the key bindings, adjust the polling rate, and customize the RGB backlighting. You can create a maximum of three profiles on the software, but you can also have up to three layers in each profile, giving a total of nine programmable layers. You can save all three profiles and their layers to the onboard memory. You can switch between the profiles by using Fn + Ctrl + Up/Down and the cycles by using Fn + Ctrl + Alt + Up/Down. The (v0041) firmware update adds an Input Latency setting in the software to lower the latency.
The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is fully compatible with Windows, but there are some keys and functions that don't work on macOS, namely the Print Screen, Calculator, Web Browser, and My Computer keys. The software isn't compatible with Linux or macOS, so you can't set macros, remap keys, or customize the backlighting, but all the keys work on Linux.