Best GLORIOUS Mechanical Keyboards: 6 Models Compared

Quick picks

Our 6 picks

1 Best overall

GLORIOUS GMMK PRO 75% Barebones Keyboard

Best for: Custom builders wanting a metal 75% frame

Form Factor

75%

Connectivity

USB-C

Hot-Swap Support

Yes (3 or 5-pin MX)

Backlighting

RGB

Case Material

CNC solid aluminum

Use

Gaming

View on Amazon: GLORIOUS GMMK PRO 75% Barebones Keyboard Affiliate link

The Glorious GMMK PRO is a 75% barebones mechanical keyboard with a CNC solid aluminum case. It features RGB backlighting and USB-C connectivity. The frame supports hot-swapping for 3 or 5-pin MX switches. You get a substantial build weighing 2.2 pounds. This model suits users who want a customizable typing platform with a premium metal chassis.

Pros

• CNC machined solid aluminum case
• Hot-swap support for 3 or 5-pin MX switches
• Replaceable aluminum switch plate for sound tuning
• Includes rotary knob and braided USB-C cable

Cons

• Sold as a barebones frame only
• Requires separate purchase of switches and keycaps
• Fixed USB-C wired connection

Good fit if

• You prefer a heavy, durable aluminum build
• You want to customize switch types and plate materials
• You need a compact 75% layout with a knob

Skip if

• You want a complete keyboard with switches included
• You require wireless connectivity
• You prefer a lightweight plastic construction

Verdict: Glorious GMMK PRO 75% Aluminum is a solid choice for builders who value a heavy metal chassis and full customization. It fits those ready to assemble their own switches and keycaps.

2 Also great

Glorious GMMK TKL Barebone

Best for: Modular TKL builders

Form Factor

TKL (85%)

Backlighting

16.8M RGB

Case Material

Aluminum top plate, ABS bottom

Hot-Swap Support

Hot-Swappable

Color

Black

Dimensions

14 × 5.08 × 1.42 inches

View on Amazon: Glorious GMMK TKL Barebone Affiliate link

This 85% barebone keyboard features a hot-swappable PCB and per-key RGB lighting. You can install any 3-pin mechanical switch without soldering. The aluminum top plate and ABS plastic base allow for sound tuning. It connects via USB-C wired link. The included stand offers adjustable angles. This kit suits builders who want a modular TKL layout with full customization options.

Pros

• Hot-swappable sockets for 3-pin switches
• Per-key 16.8 million RGB lighting
• Aluminum top plate and ABS bottom
• USB-C wired connectivity
• Adjustable in-built stand

Cons

• Does not support 5-pin switches
• Barebone kit requires separate switches and keycaps
• No wireless or Bluetooth option

Good fit if

• You want to customize your switch type
• You prefer a compact TKL layout
• You enjoy building your own keyboard

Skip if

• You need a prebuilt keyboard with switches included
• You require wireless connectivity
• You use 5-pin switches exclusively

Verdict: Glorious GMMK TKL Barebone is a solid modular choice for enthusiasts who want to tune their typing experience. It fits users who value a sturdy aluminum frame and flexible switch compatibility.

3 Best compact

GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Compact 65% Barebones

Best for: compact custom keyboard builders

Form Factor

65%

Connectivity

USB-C wired

Backlighting

16.8M RGB

Case Material

Aluminum top frame

Hot-Swap Support

Hot-Swappable

Color

Black

View on Amazon: GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Compact 65% Barebones Affiliate link

The Glorious GMMK 2 Compact is a 65% barebones mechanical keyboard with an aluminum top shell. It features per-key RGB backlighting and a USB-C connection. The hotswap sockets allow you to install any 5-pin switches without soldering. Pre-installed stabilizers are lubricated, and interior foam dampens case ping. This frame-only unit suits gamers who want a compact layout with dedicated arrow keys.

Pros

• Aluminum top shell for rigidity
• Hotswap sockets for 5-pin switches
• Per-key RGB backlighting
• Lubricated pre-installed stabilizers
• 65% layout keeps arrow keys

Cons

• Barebones frame requires separate switches and keycaps
• No wireless or Bluetooth connectivity
• Fixed USB-C wired connection only

Good fit if

• You want a compact 65% layout
• You prefer building your own keyboard
• You need per-key RGB lighting

Skip if

• You want a pre-built keyboard
• You need wireless connectivity
• You require a full-size numpad

Verdict: The Glorious GMMK 2 Compact 65% offers a rigid aluminum build and hotswap flexibility for custom builders. It fits users who value a compact footprint with arrow keys and do not need wireless options.

4 Best budget

Glorious GMMK PRO 75% Aluminum Barebones

Best for: custom 75% aluminum keyboard builds

Form Factor

75%

Backlighting

RGB

Case Material

CNC Aluminum

Use

Gaming

Dimensions

13.1 × 5.31 × 1.26 inches

Weight

3.3 pounds

View on Amazon: Glorious GMMK PRO 75% Aluminum Barebones Affiliate link

The GLORIOUS GMMK PRO is a barebone 75% mechanical keyboard frame built from CNC machined solid aluminum. It features hot-swap sockets supporting 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches without soldering, plus a modular rotary knob and RGB backlighting. You supply your own switches and keycaps, making it ideal if you want a heavy, modular desktop foundation tailored to your exact parts.

Pros

• CNC machined solid aluminum body weighing 3.3 pounds
• 5-pin hot-swap PCB compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin MX switches
• Integrated rotary knob and removable aluminum switch plate
• Detachable 2-meter braided USB-C cable included

Cons

• Barebone design includes no switches or keycaps
• Wired USB-C operation only with no wireless connectivity listed
• Heavy 3.3-pound weight limits portability

Good fit if

• You want a compact 75% layout with an integrated rotary knob.
• You plan to source your own switches and keycaps for a custom build.
• You prefer a rigid CNC aluminum case over lighter plastic frames.

Skip if

• You want a pre-assembled keyboard ready to type out of the box.
• You need wireless or Bluetooth connectivity.
• You require a full-size layout with an integrated number pad.

Verdict: GLORIOUS GMMK PRO 75% Barebone Keyboard suits builders wanting a heavy aluminum 75% desk setup with hot-swap flexibility. It provides the core frame, plate, and rotary dial while leaving switch and keycap selection entirely up to you.

5 Best premium

GLORIOUS GMMK 3 Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard

Best for: Full-size layouts with deep customization

Form Factor

Full-size

Hot-Swap Support

Hot-Swappable

Mounting Style

Gasket Mount

Media Controls

Volume Knob

Color

Black

Dimensions

18.2 × 6 × 1.8 inches

View on Amazon: GLORIOUS GMMK 3 Full-Size Mechanical Keyboard Affiliate link

The Glorious GMMK 3 is a full-size mechanical keyboard with a modular gasket system. It features 9 points of modularity for custom sound and feel. You get a programmable knob for media control and 5-pin hotswap support for easy switch changes. Two layers of sound-dampening foam reduce resonance. This barebones frame suits users who want a complete, customizable typing experience.

Pros

• Full-size 100% layout
• Programmable control knob
• 5-pin MX hotswap support
• Modular gasket mounting system

Cons

• No included switches or keycaps
• Barebones frame only
• Larger footprint than compact models

Good fit if

• You need a full-size keyboard with a number pad
• You want to customize switches and keycaps
• You prefer a gasket mount feel

Skip if

• You want a pre-built keyboard with switches
• You need a compact or portable design
• You prefer a traditional plate mount

Verdict: Glorious GMMK 3 Full-Size is ideal for builders who want a full-size layout with extensive customization options. It fits those who value modularity and acoustic tuning over plug-and-play convenience.

6 Best ergonomic

Glorious Stealth Wrist Rest

Best for: ergonomic mouse support during extended sessions

Use

Gaming

Design

Ergonomic

Ergonomic Features

Wrist Rest

Length

7.99 inches

Width

4.02 inches

Weight

2.24 ounces

View on Amazon: Glorious Stealth Wrist Rest Affiliate link

This is an ergonomic mouse wrist rest measuring 8 by 4 inches with a 17mm profile. It features medium-firm foam padding, a smooth cloth surface, anti-fray stitched borders, and a nonskid rubber base. If you experience wrist fatigue during long gaming sessions and need dedicated support next to your keyboard, this compact rest stabilizes your mouse hand.

Pros

• 0.7-inch (17mm) medium-firm foam interior
• Dual-lock anti-fray stitched edges
• Nonskid rubber base prevents slipping
• Smooth cloth exterior

Cons

• Sized only for mouse use at 8 by 4 inches
• Provides no keyboard keys or electronic components

Good fit if

• You need 17mm of ergonomic elevation under your mouse wrist.
• You want a dedicated cloth wrist rest with a non-slip rubber grip.

Skip if

• You need a functional mechanical keyboard rather than an accessory.
• You want a full-length wrist rest designed to sit across a keyboard.

Verdict: GLORIOUS Mouse Wrist Rest (17mm) provides targeted 17mm foam elevation for players needing dedicated mouse support alongside their keyboard.

Specifications side by side

GLORIOUS Keyboards Compared

GLORIOUS focuses on barebones aluminum frames for custom builders. The GMMK PRO 75% and GMMK TKL offer sturdy chassis for enthusiasts who prefer to select their own switches and keycaps. These models provide RGB backlighting and a solid foundation for a personalized typing experience. You can choose between different sizes to fit your desk space. The GMMK 2 Compact offers a smaller 65% footprint with arrow keys. It suits users who want a tighter layout without sacrificing essential navigation keys. This option remains wired and hot-swappable for easy maintenance. The GMMK 3 Full-Size model provides a complete layout with gasket mount construction. It appeals to those who need every key and value acoustic tuning. This model also supports hot-swappable switches for future upgrades. For ergonomics, the Stealth Wrist Rest provides 17mm foam elevation for mouse support during long sessions. It complements any keyboard choice by reducing strain on your wrists.

Where Glorious Fits Your Setup

GLORIOUS targets custom builders who want aluminum frames and hot-swappable switches. The range spans from compact 65% layouts to full-size 100% models. All listed keyboards feature RGB backlighting and wired connections. You get barebones kits, meaning you supply the switches and keycaps yourself. The lineup includes a dedicated wrist rest for mouse ergonomics. None of these models offer wireless connectivity or pre-installed switches. If you need a plug-and-play device, this brand does not fit. You must be ready to assemble your own board.

How to choose the right GLORIOUS keyboard

1. Check the form factor

   Your desk space and typing habits determine the right layout. The GMMK PRO 75% offers a compact frame with arrow keys, saving desk space while retaining essential navigation. If you need a number pad, the GMMK 3 Full-Size provides a complete 100% layout. The standard TKL models remove the number pad for a balanced middle ground. Choose the size that matches your daily workflow and available surface area without cluttering your setup.

2. Verify hot-swap support

   Hot-swappable sockets allow you to change mechanical switches without soldering. This feature is present in the GMMK TKL and GMMK 3 Full-Size models. It lets you experiment with different switch types to find your preferred feel and sound. If you want to customize your typing experience later, this flexibility is essential. Models without this feature require permanent soldering for any switch changes. Check the specifications to ensure the board supports this modification for long-term versatility.

3. Evaluate mounting style

   The mounting style affects the keyboard’s typing sound and feel. The GMMK 3 Full-Size uses a gasket mount design, which isolates the plate from the case. This usually results in a softer, more flexible typing feel with reduced noise. Other models may use different mounting methods that feel stiffer. Consider your preference for a thocky, cushioned feel versus a direct, solid connection. The mounting style is a key spec for acoustic tuning enthusiasts.

4. Confirm connectivity type

   All listed GLORIOUS keyboards in this guide use wired connections. This ensures zero latency and consistent power delivery for gaming. You do not need to worry about battery life or wireless interference. The trade-off is the need for a cable management solution. Verify that your desk setup can accommodate the cable run. Wired boards also tend to be lighter than their wireless counterparts, which may affect portability.

5. Assess weight and build

   Weight contributes to stability during intense typing or gaming sessions. The GMMK PRO 75% Aluminum model weighs 3.3 pounds, providing a heavy, stable base. Lighter models like the standard GMMK TKL weigh 1.4 pounds and may slide more easily. Heavier aluminum chassis reduce movement on your desk. Check the weight specification if you want a solid, unmoving platform. This spec helps you gauge the physical presence of the keyboard on your workspace.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• best GLORIOUS hot swappable mechanical keyboards
• best GLORIOUS compact mechanical keyboards
• best mechanical gaming keyboards
• best keyboards for professionals