The GMMK 3 promises the ultimate in keyboard customization, offering a modular design, hot-swappable switches, multiple layouts, and wireless connectivity. But does it live up to the hype, especially given its premium price tag? This in-depth review explores the GMMK 3’s strengths and weaknesses, focusing on its innovative features, typing experience, software, and wireless performance.
The GMMK 3 offers unparalleled customization, allowing users to personalize virtually every aspect of their keyboard. From keycaps and switches to case color and cable, the online configurator lets you build your dream keyboard. However, this flexibility comes at a cost, with fully loaded configurations reaching eye-watering prices.
A Hot-Swap Revolution
The GMMK 3 achieves a remarkable feat: combining hot-swappable sockets with adjustable actuation. This means you can effortlessly switch between standard MX switches and magnetic adjustable actuation switches without soldering. This unique feature caters to both gamers seeking precise control and keyboard enthusiasts who enjoy experimenting with different switch types. Imagine using hall-effect switches for WASD keys for optimal gaming performance while enjoying the tactile feedback of premium mechanical switches for the rest of the keyboard. This level of customization is a game-changer.
GMMK 3 keyboard disassembled
The GMMK 3’s ease of disassembly further enhances its moddability. Four screws and easily removable rubber feet provide quick access to the internals.
GMMK 3 keyboard hot swap
Feature-Packed Keyboard
The GMMK 3 boasts a comprehensive set of features, including:
- Hot-swappable switch sockets
- RGB lighting with side strips
- Internal padding and gasket mounting
- Rotary volume knob
- Swappable switch plates
- Doubleshot PBT keycaps
- 1,000Hz polling rate
- Mac and PC layout compatibility
- Detachable USB-C cable
- Glorious switches (various types)
The “Pro” version adds an aluminum case, wireless connectivity (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz), and a dedicated wireless switch. A “barebones” Pro version omits switches, keycaps, and wireless functionality. The “HE” versions add adjustable actuation support. These variants are available in 65%, 75%, and 100% layouts (with some exceptions for the Pro HE).
GMMK 3 keyboard badge
Glorious’s online configurator provides a seamless customization experience, allowing users to choose from a wide array of colors, keycaps, cables, and switches.
GMMK 3 keyboard side lighting
Typing and Gaming Performance
The GMMK 3 Pro HE, with its Lynx HE “silent” switches, offers a surprisingly smooth and quiet typing experience for a hall-effect keyboard. The internal foam dampening and expanded plastic housing contribute to a more refined feel and sound. Gaming performance is equally impressive, with the adjustable actuation providing a competitive edge.
GMMK 3 keyboard keycaps
Software Shortcomings
While the Glorious Core software offers basic customization options for keybindings and lighting, it lacks crucial features, especially for gamers. The absence of per-game profiles and analog movement binding is a significant drawback. Additionally, the software’s adjustable actuation implementation, while offering granular control, is cumbersome to configure. The lack of “snap tap” mode and limited lighting customization options further detract from the software experience.
core main
Wireless Woes
Despite offering wireless connectivity, the GMMK 3 Pro HE suffers from poor battery life and connectivity issues. Even with lighting disabled, the battery life barely reaches three days. Intermittent signal drops and unexpected shutdowns further mar the wireless experience.
GMMK 3 keyboard lighting
Final Verdict
The GMMK 3 excels in hardware customization, offering a unique blend of modularity and hot-swappable switches. However, its software shortcomings and underwhelming wireless performance prevent it from reaching its full potential. While the GMMK 3 might appeal to users prioritizing physical customization above all else, its high price and performance issues make it difficult to recommend for the average gamer or keyboard enthusiast.
