GLORIOUS GMMK TKL Barebones Review: Hot-Swap Keyboard Kit
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The GLORIOUS GMMK TKL Barebones suits you if you want to start a custom keyboard with a tenkeyless layout and standard parts. It was $69.99 at our last check, with 3-pin hot-swap sockets, an aluminum top plate, an ABS bottom plate and per-key RGB. Its title says it comes without keycaps, so you need to add them. We have not tested this keyboard, so this review relies on its listed specs and what they mean for you.
What stands out
- Tenkeyless barebones kit
- 3-pin hot-swap sockets
- Standard ANSI bottom row
- Aluminum top plate
- Per-key 16.8 million color RGB
Who it fits
Good fit for
It fits first-time builders who want a simple layout and wide keycap choice. It also suits you if you own 3-pin switches, since you can swap them with no soldering.
Who should skip it
Skip it if you want native 5-pin support or a ready-to-use keyboard. You should also think twice if you want a gasket mount or other modern sound-tuning features, as this listing does not mention them.
Verdict: A simple way into custom keyboards with a standard layout. The 3-pin limit and extra parts are the main things to plan for.
GLORIOUS GMMK TKL Barebones key specs explained
3-pin hot-swap sockets
You can change 3-pin plate-mounted switches without soldering. Five-pin switches are not supported unless you cut off their plastic legs, which permanently changes those switches.
Barebones kit
The title says this comes without keycaps. Confirm whether switches are included, as the listing talks about compatible switches but does not list any in the box.
Standard ANSI layout
A standard bottom row helps you find compatible keycaps from many brands. That makes this kit easier to personalize.
Aluminum top and ABS bottom
The metal top plate adds stiffness, while the plastic bottom keeps the case simple. Glorious says this suits sound tuning, though the result depends on your parts.
Per-key RGB
You get 16.8 million colors with per-key control in GMMK software, and main effects can be set using keyboard hotkeys. Glorious says transparent keycap legends and backlit-compatible switches help the lighting show.
GLORIOUS GMMK TKL Barebones design and build
This black kit has a listed size of 14 by 5.08 by 1.42 inches and a weight of 1.4 pounds. The TKL layout drops the number pad, leaving more room for your mouse.
A built-in stand lets you change the typing angle. The aluminum top plate and ABS bottom plate give you a simple base, while the sound will depend heavily on your switches and keycaps.
GLORIOUS GMMK TKL Barebones setup and everyday use
You need to add keycaps and any missing switches before using it. After that, GMMK Software handles lighting, and hotkeys cover the main RGB patterns without software.
The listing names compatibility with Windows, Mac and keyboard-supported consoles such as PS4, PS5 and Xbox. Game support for keyboards can vary, so check before relying on it for console play.
What to check before you buy the GMMK TKL Barebones
Check your switches first, since this kit only natively supports 3-pin types. Also add up the cost of keycaps and any other parts you need, and confirm what comes in the box.
Glorious includes a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty. Also make sure a US ANSI layout works for you and for the keycaps you plan to use.
The product at a glance
Glorious GMMK TKL Barebone
Best for: First custom TKL builds
- 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
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The GLORIOUS GMMK TKL Barebones is a tenkeyless US ANSI keyboard kit with 3-pin hot-swap sockets, an aluminum top plate and per-key RGB. The title says it comes without keycaps, so you need to add your own parts. It has a built-in stand and a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- 3-pin hot-swap sockets
- Standard ANSI layout for keycap choice
- Per-key RGB
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- No keycaps included
- No native 5-pin support
- Needs extra parts and setup
Good fit if
- You are starting a custom build
- You own 3-pin switches
Skip if
- You want a ready-to-use keyboard
- You need native 5-pin support
Verdict: A simple starting point for a tenkeyless custom build.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Glorious GMMK TKL Barebone |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Weight | 1.4 pounds |
| Size | TKL - 85% |
| Model | GMMK-TKL-RGB |
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Frequently asked questions
Does the GMMK TKL Barebones include keycaps?
No. The title says it comes without keycaps.
Does it support 5-pin switches?
Not natively. Glorious says you would need to cut off the plastic legs to make them fit.
Is it hot-swappable?
Yes. It has hot-swap sockets for 3-pin plate-mounted switches.
Does it work with a Mac?
The listing names Windows, Mac and keyboard-supported consoles.
Does it have a warranty?
The listing includes a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.