Key takeaways
- Hot-swappable switches: Change feel in seconds without soldering.
- Hall Effect option: The GMMK 3 HE offers adjustable actuation and rapid trigger.
- Quality keycaps: Doubleshot PBT resists shine and wear.
- Multiple sizes: From compact 60/65 percent to full 96 percent layouts.
What's inside
Glorious built its reputation on enthusiast-grade gaming gear, and its keyboard lineup has become a go-to for players who want custom feel without diving into a full DIY build. From the hot-swappable GMMK 2 to the Hall Effect GMMK 3 HE with rapid trigger, the range covers everything from budget-friendly customization to competitive-grade magnetic switches. This review looks at what makes these boards worth a place on your desk.
The Glorious appeal is modularity: hot-swap sockets, doubleshot keycaps, and gasket-mounted feel across multiple sizes. We put the lineup through everyday typing and gaming to judge build quality, switch performance, and which model suits which kind of player.
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Watch: Glorious Keyboard Review: Review & Buyer’s Guide — Video Review
Design & Build
Glorious keyboards feel purpose-built for tinkerers. The GMMK 2 comes in full-size 96 percent and compact 65 percent layouts with hot-swap sockets and doubleshot keycaps, letting you change switches without soldering. The GMBK 75 percent adds IP57 water and dust resistance plus a detachable USB cable, a genuinely rugged touch. At the top, the GMMK 3 HE uses a modular gasket system with doubleshot PBT keycaps in both black and white finishes, and its Hall Effect design brings adjustable actuation to a premium chassis that feels dense and rattle-free.
Performance
The headline is the GMMK 3 HE’s Hall Effect magnetic switches with an 8K polling rate and rapid trigger, which give competitive players adjustable actuation depth and near-instant reset, a real edge in fast shooters. The hot-swappable GMMK 2 with Cherry MX-style linear switches is the more accessible pick, delivering smooth, satisfying keystrokes and easy customization. Across the range, the doubleshot keycaps resist shine and the gasket construction produces a softer, more cushioned typing feel than older Glorious boards. RGB lighting is bright and cleanly diffused.
Pros & Cons
- Hot-swappable switches: Change feel in seconds without soldering.
- Hall Effect option: The GMMK 3 HE offers adjustable actuation and rapid trigger.
- Quality keycaps: Doubleshot PBT resists shine and wear.
- Multiple sizes: From compact 60/65 percent to full 96 percent layouts.
- Premium pricing: The HE models cost more than mainstream gaming boards.
- Software learning curve: Tuning actuation takes some setup time.
Alternatives to Consider
If you want competitive magnetic switches, the GMMK 3 HE in black or white is the model to get, with rapid trigger and 8K polling for esports. Players on a tighter budget who still want customization should choose the hot-swappable GMMK 2, available in TKL and compact 65 percent. For a rugged, spill-resistant board with a detachable cable, the IP57-rated GMBK 75 percent is uniquely durable. If you want a screen-and-knob wireless alternative, the AULA S75 PRO is a value-focused option worth a look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the GMMK 3 HE special?
Its Hall Effect magnetic switches allow adjustable actuation depth and rapid trigger, plus an 8K polling rate. That combination gives competitive players faster, more customizable inputs than standard mechanical switches.
Are Glorious keyboards good for typing as well as gaming?
Yes. The gasket-mounted construction and doubleshot keycaps deliver a cushioned, satisfying typing feel, making these boards comfortable for long work sessions as well as gaming.
Can I change the switches myself?
On hot-swap models like the GMMK 2 and GMMK 3, yes. The sockets let you pull and replace switches by hand in seconds, with no soldering required.
Which size should I pick?
Choose full-size or 96 percent if you need a numpad, TKL for a balance of keys and space, or 60/65 percent for maximum desk room and mouse space in shooters.
Verdict
Glorious keyboards remain a top choice for players who value customization and feel. The GMMK 3 HE is the standout for competitive gamers wanting Hall Effect switches and rapid trigger, while the hot-swappable GMMK 2 is the smarter value pick for most. Add the rugged GMBK 75 percent if durability matters, and you have a board that grows with your preferences.
