GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Full Size (96%) Barebones Keyboard Frame, White, RGB

For a gaming or desk setup that needs a number pad without taking up the space of a conventional full-size keyboard, the GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Full Size (96%) Barebones offers a more compact layout. Its white aluminium top shell, RGB backlighting and hot-swap sockets make it a frame to build around rather than a ready-to-use keyboard.

It connects by USB-C and has an International/ISO layout. The main buying distinction is that this is the barebones version: you can choose compatible switches and keycaps instead of receiving a complete, assembled keyboard.

Technical details

• Name: GLORIOUS GMMK 2 Full Size (96%) Barebones
• Type: Mechanical gaming keyboard frame
• Layout: International/ISO
• Material: Aluminium top shell
• Colour: White
• Backlighting: RGB
• Connectivity: USB-C
• Compatibility: Laptop and PC
• Dimensions: 37.5L x 12.5W x 2.9H centimetres
• What’s included: Braided USB-C cable, switch puller, keycap puller and novelty ESC key

Getting the most from it

The 96% layout keeps a number pad while aiming for a footprint closer to a TKL keyboard. That makes it worth considering if you enter numbers regularly but want to reclaim some desk space compared with a standard full-size board. The listed dimensions give you a concrete reference when planning where it will sit.

The hot-swap sockets accept 5-pin mechanical switches, so you can fit compatible switches without soldering and choose a feel to suit gaming or everyday typing. The included pullers help with fitting and removing switches and keycaps. Pre-installed stabilisers are lubricated, and the case has interior foam intended to dampen sound. How much customisation do you want to take on? This frame suits someone who wants to select the parts and assemble their preferred setup, a complete keyboard is the simpler route if you want to plug in and start typing.

You’ll like it if retaining a number pad, choosing your own switches and having RGB lighting matter more than buying a finished keyboard. The product information also describes grippy rubber feet and an integrated stand, useful details for a desk-based setup.

Box contents

Alongside the barebones frame, the stated contents are a braided USB-C cable, a switch puller, a keycap puller and a novelty ESC key. The frame is described as chassis-only, so it should not be treated as a complete keyboard, plan to supply compatible switches and keycaps, apart from the included ESC key. The layout may differ from product images, so the International/ISO specification is the more useful reference when choosing it.

Before you decide

Is this ready to use straight away? No: it is a barebones frame, so switches and keycaps need to be fitted before it can serve as a complete keyboard.

Which switches can it take? The hot-swap sockets are specified for 5-pin switches, with examples including Glorious, Cherry, Kailh and Gateron switches.

Does it include a number pad? Yes. The 96% layout is described as retaining the number pad in a form factor closer to TKL than a conventional full-size keyboard.

Is it worth it?

This is best judged as a customisation base, not as a finished gaming keyboard. Its combination of a number pad, USB-C, RGB lighting and 5-pin hot-swap support is relevant if you already know which switches and keycaps you want, or want the flexibility to choose them later. You may want to skip it if you need a complete keyboard without sourcing and fitting those parts. The International/ISO layout and the supplied accessories make the intended setup clearer, but the key decision is whether you want to assemble your own board or buy one that is ready to type on.