As a seasoned typist and gaming enthusiast with a discerning eye for quality, I must say that the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro has truly caught my attention. Its textured finish, double-shot PBT construction, and moderately diffused RGB lighting make it a pleasure to use on a daily basis. While I usually prefer keyboards with MT3 or Keychron derivate KSA profiles, the standard OEM profile of this keyboard is acceptable, especially considering the unique features it offers.
Known for its popularity in the DIY keyboard sector, Glorious remains a top pick among many users exploring customizable keyboards. I made the switch to the GMMK Pro about a year and a half ago after using gaming keyboards for nearly a decade, and it quickly became apparent that there was a significant difference. The gasket-mounted design offered improved feedback, while the keyboard also opened up previously unexplored avenues for customization.
In this market niche, numerous brands exist, yet Glorious continues to shine due to its customizable aesthetics and user-friendly pre-built keyboards. Now, Glorious aims to capitalize on this edge by unveiling their latest keyboard model, the GMMK 3. To put it mildly, the GMMK 3 surpasses the GMMK Pro; in reality, it’s a complete redesign from the ground up.
The GMMK 3 keyboard offers multiple sizes and incorporates both hall effect switches and standard MX-style keys, while the Pro version boasts Bluetooth, 2.4GHz connectivity, and USB-C. However, what truly sets it apart is Boardsmith, a new customization tool by Glorious. With nine areas for modification and numerous choices in each category, users can create countless unique designs – Glorious claims over one billion distinct combinations are possible.
For approximately a month, I’ve been using a customized full-size version of the GMMK 3 Pro equipped with hall effect switches, serving as my primary keyboard during this period. It didn’t take much time to comprehend that Glorious has an exceptional product on their hands, and if you’re in the market for a new keyboard, here are some reasons why the GMMK 3 Pro should be on your radar.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: Pricing and availability
As a researcher examining the Glorious GMMK 3 and GMMK 3 Pro, I find that these keyboards come in three distinct sizes: 65%, 75%, and 100%. The versatility of this keyboard is remarkable, as it allows for numerous custom configurations to suit individual preferences. Moreover, Glorious offers both pre-built standard kits and barebones sets to cater to various needs.
The standard GMMK 3 features USB-C connectivity and MX switches, priced at $119 for the 65%, $129 for the 75%, and $139 for the full-sized model. This package includes a fully assembled keyboard equipped with Glorious Fox switches and GPBT keys, providing a decent overall worth. If you’re looking for a more basic setup, opt for the black version that retails at $79 (65%), $89 (75%), or $99 (100%) without additional features.
In this new generation, Glorious is fully committed to using hall effect switches, as evidenced by the GMMK 3 HE model which comes equipped with their own hall effect switches, offering adjustable actuation points. The cost varies depending on the size of the keyboard: $179 for the 65% version, $189 for the 75%, and $199 for the full-sized 100%.
There’s also a GMMK 3 Pro, and this keyboard is more interesting as it has 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connectivity in addition to USB-C. The chassis is also made out of metal, and it’s just a better all-round keyboard. The GMMK 3 pre-built model is sold in white and black, and it starts at $239 for the 65% edition, $259 to $299 for the 75% version, and $299 for the 100% design. This includes the keyboard along with the Glorious Fox switches and GPBT keys.
The GMMK 3 Pro by Glorious is available in a hall effect version, which comes in black and silver. This model features Fox HE linear switches that can be personalized and is priced between $299 to $349 for the 65% version or $319 to $369 for the 75% variant. Unfortunately, there’s no pre-built full-size option available in this configuration at the moment.
Just like the standard model, the GMMK 3 Pro comes in a DIY kit version too, priced at $189 for the 65%, $199 for the 75%, and $239 for the full-sized model. Additionally, there’s an option for a Hall Effect variant, which is also available as a DIY kit, but only in the 75% design; its price is $259. However, if you use the configurator, you can customize it further.
It’s evidently a large number of configurations, and I haven’t even touched upon the custom designs yet. The GMMK 3 offers easy customization through Boardsmith, Glorious’s latest tool, enabling you to adjust virtually every aspect of the keyboard.
As an analyst, I opted for a personalized design featuring a full 100% layout, tactile Panda-style hall effect switches, a striking blue and white color palette with Pixel Punk keycaps, and distinctive red rotary knob and badge. Utilizing Boardsmith, I customized my GMMK 3 Pro board, totaling $567. While this is pricier compared to other options, it’s worth noting that a DIY design can be achieved at a lower cost. Interestingly enough, the GMMK 3 Pro doesn’t rank as the most expensive keyboard in my collection within the mechanical keyboard hobby.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: Design
Customizing the GMMK 3 Pro results in a unique design, as each setup varies when you opt for customization. Pre-built versions offer simple color options like white or black, but no matter which one you select, the case remains consistent.
Similar to premium mechanical keyboards, the GMMK 3 Pro boasts an all-aluminum frame, making it one of the heaviest keyboards I’ve encountered, tipping the scales at approximately 5.67lb (2.57 kg). This weight is beneficial since it keeps the keyboard firmly in place on a desk. It features eight rubber feet on its base, ensuring a secure grip, and the Glorious logo adorns the bottom plate.
The top part of this keyboard doesn’t have much branding, other than the Glorious logo next to the rotary knob on the badge. There isn’t really any way to identify it as a particular brand. I chose a full-sized design because I require a number pad, and it’s quite large; if you don’t need a separate number pad, a 75% model would be more suitable for you.
This particular keyboard has a moderate slope; it’s not as steep as the Keychron Q6 Pro I assessed earlier this year. Unfortunately, you can’t adjust the angle, and in my experience, using a wrist rest becomes essential with this keyboard – and indeed, Glorious offers one for purchase.
Among the keyboards I’ve recently tested, none exhibits a greater meticulousness in design than the Angry Miao Cyberboard, surpassing even the GMMK Pro in build quality. Notably, the rotary knob on this keyboard is securely affixed, unlike my experience with the GMMK Pro where there was some wobble.
As an analyst, I appreciate the continued emphasis on RGB lighting in Glorious keyboards, a feature that never fails to impress me. The GMMK 3 Pro, however, introduces a unique twist to this, featuring side-mounted LED lights that mirror the customizability of its RGB LED keys. What’s more, the badge now sports an RGB indicator for added flair. A minor yet noticeable improvement is the centering of the USB-C port, a decision that I find quite practical. My coiled cable, being 1.2m in length, often requires extension to reach the side-mounted ports on most keyboards. With the GMMK 3 Pro’s centered port, this issue has been effectively addressed.
Absolutely, Glorious offers their own coiled cables, which come in colors that match your keyboard for a harmonious setup. The packaging comes with sample switches, allowing you to experience the various types of switches Glorious provides. As expected, the package includes standard switch and key puller tools as well.
Glorious did all the right things with the design of the GMMK 3 Pro. The extensive customizability is a huge differentiator, and it gives the GMMK 3 Pro a unique presence in this category. The build quality is among the best of any keyboard I used, and that’s no small feat.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: Customizability
The GMMK 3 Pro emphasizes customization even more, with the Boardsmith tool enabling modifications to virtually every aspect of the keyboard. You’re not only able to pick the size, available in 65%, 75%, and 100% versions, but also choose from pre-built, barebones, or custom configurations within those sizes.
I’ll walk you through the different customization options: Once you pick a size, you can decide whether to go for wired or wireless connectivity and whether you prefer MX style switches or hall effect ones. Opting for hall effect switches offers more flexibility since you can also insert regular MX switches if needed, however, it increases the price. The standard GMMK 3 allows you to choose between LEDs facing north or south, but when you opt for the Bluetooth model, you’ll receive north-facing LEDs instead.
In my case, I opted for the bottom design and chose the Midnight Blue color, which offers nine distinctive options in that section. Similarly, the top case presents an identical set of choices. Being a fan of two-tone aesthetics, I selected the Matte White option. Following this, you’re given the chance to pick your preferred switches, and Glorious provides an impressive variety. Personally, I prefer the Panda tactile and Lynx linear keys for that satisfying clicky feel. However, you can always customize your keyboard with the configurator, even starting from scratch if you wish.
Similarly, there’s a lot of customization possibilities when it comes to the keys, as Glorious provides 22 different options. They offer a few limited-edition collections, and I chose the Pixel Punk set. There are 16 distinct color choices for the badge and rotary knob, along with 11 versions of the coiled cable.
In summary, you can choose from various materials such as brass, aluminum, FR4, and polycarbonate for your switch plate. I opted for aluminum, and I chose poron foam for the gasket mount. The GMMK Pro had good customization options, and it improved upon that with the GMMK 3 Pro, offering an impressive build experience.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: Features
The GMMK 3 Pro is packed with options. This keyboard can be connected via USB-C, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz, and it comes with a USB receiver in the box. However, one potential drawback is that there’s no designated space to keep the dongle within the keyboard itself. Given my tendency to misplace these dongles frequently, I wish Glorious had incorporated a storage compartment on the side of the GMMK 3 Pro for the receiver.
Mostly, I relied on both USB-C and Bluetooth to operate the keyboard, and I encountered no problems with connectivity while using Bluetooth. The battery life was quite good too; it lasted for a week before needing a recharge, which is more than enough for my needs. One standout feature of the GMMK 3 Pro is its 8000Hz polling rate over USB-C, a significant advantage compared to other DIY keyboards that typically offer only 1000Hz polling rates as standard.
You can change the operating mode by using a switch located to the left of the USB-C port, and there’s another switch on the opposite side that allows for toggling between Windows and macOS modes. The HE edition of the GMMK 3 Pro offers more flexibility because it supports both traditional MX-style switches and magnetic hall effect options.
RGB lighting is great in its own right, and while I prefer south-facing LEDs, the GMMK 3 Pro delivers decent diffused light. The Pixel Punk keys I went with don’t have shine-through legends, so you only get diffused light, and if you want brighter RGB lighting, you can always switch out the keys.
You can customize lighting effects and change key combinations via Glorious Core, the brand’s software. While the software was nearly unusable when I tested the GMMK Pro, Glorious overhauled the feature-set, and the new 2.1 build doesn’t have many issues.
With hall effect switches on this keyboard, you gain the flexibility to modify the switch’s activation point. This adjustment can be made globally or customized for individual keys, which is particularly useful when tweaking the WASD cluster’s trigger point. You can set the activation point anywhere between 0.4mm and 4mm, providing a quicker response than standard mechanical keyboards typically offer.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: Typing experience
In the creation of the GMMK 3 Pro, Glorious has combined all lessons from the GMMK Pro and GMMK 2. This integration is noticeably apparent. The most significant alteration introduced is the gasket-mounted design; I found the rigidity of the GMMK Pro somewhat displeasing, requiring me to modify the mounts for a springier feel. Fortunately, this issue has been addressed in the GMMK 3 Pro, resulting in a keyboard that offers an agreeable bounce, enhancing typing experience overall.
Compared to the GMMK Pro, the feedback is improved, but it doesn’t quite match the quality of the Keychron Q6 Pro or the Angry Miao Cyberboard R4 that I reviewed a few months ago. Customization extends to the internal parts too, and if you prefer a keyboard with a bouncier feel, you can easily replace the silicone gasket mounts for that effect.
These Pixel Punk keys boast a durable build quality, featuring a tactile textured surface that’s comfortable to touch during regular use. With their double-shot PBT construction, longevity is assured, and they moderately scatter RGB lighting. Unfortunately, these keys stick to the standard OEM profile, which isn’t particularly noteworthy. Personally, I find the MT3 or Keychron derivative KSA profiles more suitable for daily use, but Glorious currently only provides OEM-style keys through its customizer.
As a tech enthusiast, I opted for the Glorious Panda HE switch in my latest build. While I typically favor Gateron’s linear switches, the unique feel and sound of the Panda switch drew me in, making it an exceptional choice over my standard linear preference.
The hall effect switch model offers impressive performance by itself, and the option to adjust the activation point provides a significant improvement in gaming experience. Unlike traditional switches, you don’t have to fully depress the key for it to work. Moreover, an added advantage is that you can assign multiple keystrokes to a single key at different activation points.
If you’re opting for a custom version, I would recommend selecting the basic model instead. While the distinct colors do add a noticeable touch, you can save money by not purchasing the company’s switches and keys. There are superior alternatives available.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: The competition
Among keyboards currently available, none can match the customizability level offered by the GMMK 3 Pro. However, if you’re simply in search of a pre-built 75% or 100% keyboard, Keychron models remain an excellent option. The Q1 HE is the newest model within their lineup, featuring hall effect switches, similar to those used in the GMMK 3 Pro. As of now, you can purchase the fully assembled version for $239 on Amazon.
As a bystander, I’d highly suggest the Q6 Pro if you’re in search of a full-size keyboard. This keyboard is offered in both DIY (barebones) and ready-to-use (pre-built) versions. Priced at $209, it offers an outstanding value for money.
Glorious GMMK 3 Pro: Should you buy it?
You should buy this if:
- You need a highly customizable mechanical keyboard
- You need fast switches for gaming
- You want the convenience of Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity
- You need a keyboard that’s built to last
You shouldn’t buy this if:
- You need the best value
- You want a springy gasket-mounted board
Among numerous excellent gasket-mounted keyboards on the market today, many are more affordably priced than the GMMK 3 Pro. What sets Glorious apart is superior customization options; the flexibility to mold the chassis according to your personal tastes is a significant advantage, making the GMMK 3 Pro a popular choice over its competitors.
Apart from being fantastic, the remainder of this keyboard also impresses. The hall effect keys, excellent for gaming, offer a remarkable feel. Adjustable actuation points add an extra layer of coolness. It boasts versatile connectivity, has outstanding battery life over 2.4GHz, and its construction quality is top-notch compared to other keyboards I’ve tried.
If you don’t mind spending extra to get a custom keyboard, the GMMK 3 Pro is a great choice.
Read More
- DOP PREDICTION. DOP cryptocurrency
- MDT PREDICTION. MDT cryptocurrency
- JASMY PREDICTION. JASMY cryptocurrency
- DGB PREDICTION. DGB cryptocurrency
- LDO PREDICTION. LDO cryptocurrency
- WWE’s Chase U Becomes NXT Tag Team Champions in Epic Win
- PSP PREDICTION. PSP cryptocurrency
- EUR VND PREDICTION
- EUR PKR PREDICTION
- BONE PREDICTION. BONE cryptocurrency
2024-09-10 16:10