Glorious GMMK Compact
$109
The Glorious GMMK Compact is a modular mechanical keyboard with a 60% layout, allowing users to easily swap out switches without soldering. It features a sleek design with customizable RGB backlighting.
Our take
Modular design for ultimate customization.
Alright, let's dive into the Glorious GMMK Compact. First off, if you're into customization, this keyboard is like a dream come true. It's got a hot-swappable feature, which means you can change out the switches without any soldering. This is a huge plus for anyone who likes to tinker with their setup or just wants to try different switch types without buying a whole new keyboard. It’s a compact 60% layout, so you save a bit of desk space too, which is always nice.
That said, the compact size isn’t for everyone. If you're used to having dedicated arrow keys or a numpad, you might find yourself missing them. Some folks get used to using the function layer for these keys, but it does take a bit of adjustment. So if you've got a workflow that relies heavily on those keys, just keep in mind there might be a learning curve.
Build quality feels solid, and the RGB lighting is a nice touch — it’s bright and customizable, which adds a bit of personality to your desk setup. However, the keycaps are just okay. They're made of ABS plastic, which isn't as durable as PBT, and they can get shiny over time. If you're picky about your keycaps, you might want to budget for an upgrade down the line.
Performance-wise, this keyboard doesn’t disappoint. It's responsive and feels great to type on. The option to swap out switches means you can tailor the feel and sound to your liking. But remember, this does push you down the rabbit hole of mechanical keyboard modding, which can get pricey fast. If you're not careful, you might end up spending more on switches and keycaps than you did on the keyboard itself.
For the price, the GMMK Compact holds its ground pretty well. It's a solid choice if you're looking to dip your toes into the world of mechanical keyboards or if you just want something you can customize. But, it's not perfect for everyone — especially if you need those extra keys or if you're on a tight budget and don't want to get caught up in buying extras. Overall, it's a pretty sweet piece of tech if you're prepared to embrace both its perks and quirks.
