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Glorious GMMK 2 vs Keychron V1: Comparison
Glorious GMMK 2 vs Keychron V1 layout compared
They differ on switch type too, Glorious Panda or Fox Hot-Swap on the Glorious GMMK 2 versus Keychron K Pro Mechanical on the Keychron V1. There is a split on connectivity as well, Wired USB-C on the Glorious GMMK 2 versus Wired on the Keychron V1. Backlighting is not the same on both, South-Facing Per-Key RGB on the Glorious GMMK 2 versus South-facing RGB on the Keychron V1. They differ on keycap material too, Double-Shot PBT on the Glorious GMMK 2 versus Double-shot PBT, OEM profile on the Keychron V1.
Which should you buy, Glorious GMMK 2 or Keychron V1?
The Glorious GMMK 2 is the one to take for budget custom-keyboard builders and QMK/VIA users wanting factory switches, though it is not the pick for wireless-only buyers and premium aluminum-case seekers. The Keychron V1 suits first-time buyers curious about the custom keyboard hobby and anyone wanting QMK/VIA remapping without a soldering iron, though it is the wrong buy for anyone who needs wireless, the V1 is wired only and gamers who specifically want Hall Effect or optical switches. It is the wrong buy for buyers who want a metal case at this price; it's plastic. Our rating of the Glorious GMMK 2 (8/10): A well-rounded, affordable QMK/VIA custom board that improves on the original GMMK in every meaningful way. Our rating of the Keychron V1 (8/10): the best entry point into gasket-mounted custom boards for under $100, nothing else at this price feels this close to a hobbyist build.
Where the two are identical
Everything else lines up. Polling rate read the same on both, so those are not worth weighing.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- Glorious GMMK 2
- Glorious
- Keychron V1
- Keychron
Layout
- Glorious GMMK 2
- 75% (also available Full-Size / TKL / Compact)
- Keychron V1
- 75%
Model
- Glorious GMMK 2
- GMMK 2
- Keychron V1
- V1
Switch Type
- Glorious GMMK 2
- Glorious Panda (Tactile) or Fox (Linear) Hot-Swap
- Keychron V1
- Keychron K Pro Mechanical (Brown/Red/Banana)
Connectivity
- Glorious GMMK 2
- Wired USB-C (detachable)
- Keychron V1
- Wired (USB-C)
Keycap Material
- Glorious GMMK 2
- Double-Shot PBT
- Keychron V1
- Double-shot PBT, OEM profile
Backlighting
- Glorious GMMK 2
- South-Facing Per-Key RGB
- Keychron V1
- South-facing RGB
Polling Rate
- Glorious GMMK 2
- 1000 Hz
- Keychron V1
- 1000 Hz
Which one should you pick?
Choose Glorious GMMK 2 if you want the higher polling rate (1000 Hz vs 1000 Hz).
Choose Keychron V1 if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Price comparison
| Retailer | Glorious GMMK 2 | Keychron V1 |
|---|---|---|
| Glorious | View on Glorious | |
| Amazon | View on Amazon | |
| Newegg | View on Newegg |
Disclaimer: The price and specification of the given product may differ from the actual product. Please confirm on the retailer's website before buying.
Verdict
Glorious GMMK 2
8 / 10 Expert Rating
A well-rounded, affordable QMK/VIA custom board that improves on the original GMMK in every meaningful way.
Keychron V1
8 / 10 Expert Rating
The best entry point into gasket-mounted custom boards for under $100, nothing else at this price feels this close to a hobbyist build.