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Compare Glorious Gaming 2 vs Glorious Gaming V1 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for enthusiasts and DIY builders deciding between two full-size barebone keyboards from Glorious Gaming. The GMMK 2 (Glorious Gaming 2) offers an aluminum top frame and QMK/VIA firmware support, while the original GMMK V1 uses a plastic frame and is limited to Glorious software. Both are 100% hot-swappable barebones with a wired USB-C connection and 1000 Hz polling rate, but they differ in layout standard, materials, and ecosystem. The decision hinges on whether you prefer the ISO layout and open-source customization of the newer model or the lower price and ANSI familiarity of the original.

84
GMMK 2 Full-Size Keyboard Barebone (ISO) White
66
GMMK Full-Size Keyboard Barebone (ANSI) Black

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  • Has Clicky, Linear switch options
  • Built with the ISO layout standard
  • Supports QMK firmware
  • Supports VIA configuration
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Weighs about 1390 g
  • Sized at 35 x 445 x 135 mm
  • Made with a Aluminum, Plastic case
  • Has Linear switch options
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Weighs about 1200 g
  • Sized at 36 x 440 x 137 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
Scores
  • Performance: 69.2
  • Build Quality: 81.5
  • Productivity: 75.8
  • Customizability: 89.4
  • Portability: 43.3
Scores
  • Performance: 62.6
  • Build Quality: 60.8
  • Productivity: 59.3
  • Customizability: 74.5
  • Portability: 44
Name
Glorious Gaming 2
Name
Glorious Gaming V1
Release year
2025
Release year
2025
Switch Options
Clicky, Linear
Switch Options
Linear
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
100%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ISO
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Connection
Wired, Wired only
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Polling Rate
1000 Hz
Battery capacity
-
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Mount Style
Plate Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
Aluminum, Plastic
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
-
Keycaps Material
-
Dimensions
35 x 445 x 135 mm
Dimensions
36 x 440 x 137 mm
Weight
1390g
Weight
1200g
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Pros and Trade-offs

If you want a more premium build with advanced firmware and sound dampening, the Glorious Gaming 2 (GMMK 2) is the better choice, especially if you prefer the ISO layout. If you are on a tighter budget or strongly prefer ANSI, the Glorious Gaming V1 is a functional and affordable barebone. For most builders, the GMMK 2's aluminum top frame and QMK/VIA support justify the higher cost.

Glorious Gaming 2

  • +CNC-machined aluminum top frame provides a premium feel and better structural rigidity compared to a full plastic build.
  • +QMK and VIA firmware support allows for deep customization of keymaps, macros, and lighting without proprietary software.
  • +Sound dampening features help reduce case ping and echo for a more pleasant typing sound.
  • +ISO layout with a 100% form factor is ideal for users who need dedicated arrow keys and a numpad.
  • −Heavier than the V1 at 1390g, making it less portable.
  • −ISO layout may not be preferred by users accustomed to ANSI, especially for keycap availability.
  • −The aluminum and polymer construction may come at a higher cost compared to the all-plastic V1.

Glorious Gaming V1

  • +Lighter at 1200g, making it slightly easier to move around.
  • +ANSI layout is more common and offers broader compatibility with aftermarket keycap sets.
  • +Lower price point provides an affordable entry into full-size custom mechanical keyboards.
  • +Hot-swap support on a full-size layout makes switch swapping straightforward without soldering.
  • −All-plastic frame with a metal top plate feels less premium and may produce more case noise.
  • −Lacks QMK/VIA support; customization is limited to the Glorious software.
  • −No sound dampening features out of the box, which may lead to a hollower typing sound.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The Glorious Gaming 2 (GMMK 2) is the clear winner across most use cases due to its superior build materials, sound dampening, and open-source firmware support. It excels in gaming, office work, programming, modding, and content creation where QMK/VIA compatibility and a more rigid frame matter. The original Glorious Gaming V1 ties in travel since both are heavy full-size wired boards, but it loses in every other category. The tie occurs only because neither keyboard is travel-friendly.

GamingGlorious Gaming 2
  • •Both have a 1000 Hz polling rate and wired connectivity suitable for competitive gaming.
  • •The GMMK 2's aluminum top frame provides more rigidity and stability during intense sessions.
  • •QMK/VIA support on the GMMK 2 allows for more advanced key remapping and macros without additional software overhead.
OfficeGlorious Gaming 2
  • •The GMMK 2 comes in an ISO layout which is standard in many European offices for easier typing of special characters.
  • •Its sound dampening features and aluminum construction may contribute to a quieter and more refined typing experience.
  • •QMK/VIA support enables efficient automation of repetitive office tasks.
ProgrammingGlorious Gaming 2
  • •The GMMK 2's QMK/VIA support allows programmers to create custom layers and macros for coding workflows.
  • •The ISO layout is often preferred by developers in regions that require accented characters.
  • •Hot-swap sockets make it easy to install preferred switches for a tailored typing feel.
TravelTie
  • •The GMMK V1 is lighter at 1200g compared to the GMMK 2's 1390g, making it slightly easier to transport.
  • •The full-size form factor is not ideal for travel; neither keyboard is designed for portability.
  • •Both are wired-only, so they lack the wireless flexibility that frequent travelers typically need.
ModdingGlorious Gaming 2
  • •The GMMK 2's sound dampening features provide a better starting point for acoustic modding.
  • •QMK/VIA firmware allows for deep software customization beyond what the GMMK V1 offers with its proprietary software.
  • •The aluminum top frame is more modding-friendly than plastic for those who want to paint or modify the case.
Content CreationGlorious Gaming 2
  • •QMK/VIA support on the GMMK 2 enables complex shortcuts and macros for video editing and design software.
  • •The ISO layout may be beneficial for creators who need specific regional keycaps.
  • •The aluminum construction and sound dampening could reduce case noise in recording environments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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