Glorious GMMK Pro 75% Barebone Mechanical Keyboard Review
The Glorious GMMK Pro 75% Barebone Mechanical Keyboard has been making waves in the keyboard community, and for good reason. This keyboard promises a fully customizable experience, from its hot-swappable switches to its programmable knob, all wrapped in a premium CNC machined aluminum body. But does it live up to the hype? I’ve been putting this keyboard through its paces to bring you this comprehensive review.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The GMMK Pro is aimed at enthusiasts who want to build the perfect keyboard to suit their exact needs. This barebones keyboard comes without keycaps or switches, allowing you to choose the best components for your typing style and preferences. The 75% layout is also a popular choice for those who want a compact keyboard without sacrificing essential keys.
Features & Design
The GMMK Pro is packed with features that enhance customization and functionality:
- Hot-Swappable Switches: The GMMK Pro features a 5-pin hot-swappable system, allowing you to easily change and experiment with different switch types without soldering.
- CNC Machined Aluminum Body: The keyboard boasts a robust and premium CNC machined aluminum body that provides a solid feel and durability.
- Programmable Knob: The GMMK Pro includes a programmable knob, allowing you to assign it to various functions, such as volume control, media playback, or custom macros.
- RGB Backlighting: The keyboard features full RGB backlighting with customizable lighting effects.
- Compact 75% Layout: The 75% layout retains essential keys while reducing the footprint compared to full-sized keyboards.
- Dedicated Media Keys: The keyboard includes dedicated media keys for easy volume control, track skipping, and more.
- Dual-Layer PCB: The keyboard’s dual-layer PCB provides a stable and secure connection for your switches.
Performance
In terms of performance, the GMMK Pro excels. The solid aluminum frame ensures stability and reduces flex, resulting in a crisp and consistent typing experience. The hot-swappable switches provide a wide range of customization options, allowing you to find the perfect combination of tactile feedback, actuation force, and sound.
The programmable knob is also a welcome addition, offering a convenient and customizable way to control various functions. I found myself frequently using the knob for volume control, which was incredibly handy. The RGB backlighting is also very customizable and can be configured using the Glorious CORE software.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Premium build quality with a robust aluminum frame
- Fully customizable with hot-swappable switches and a programmable knob
- Compact 75% layout saves desk space
- Excellent RGB backlighting with customization options
- Dedicated media keys for convenient control
Cons:
- The keyboard comes barebones, requiring separate purchase of keycaps and switches
- Some users might find the 75% layout to be too compact
- The cable is not detachable
Final Verdict
Overall, the Glorious GMMK Pro 75% Barebone Mechanical Keyboard is a highly recommended choice for keyboard enthusiasts who prioritize customization and build quality. Its robust frame, hot-swappable switches, and programmable knob provide a truly unique and personalized typing experience. While the barebones nature might be a downside for some, the flexibility it offers is a huge plus for those who enjoy building their own keyboards. If you’re looking for a high-quality keyboard that allows you to create the perfect setup, the GMMK Pro is definitely worth considering.
Specifications
| Layout | 75% |
| Switches | Hot-Swappable (5-Pin) |
| Keycaps | Not included |
| Cable | USB-C, Braided, Non-Detachable |
| Body | CNC Machined Aluminum |
| Backlighting | RGB |
| Programmable Knob | Yes |
| Media Keys | Yes |
| Dimensions | 350 x 135 x 40mm |
| Weight | 1.1 kg |