GMK Keycaps tested – The infamous top sets among keycaps

1 - GMK Caps - Introduction 2 - GMK PBT MTNU Keycap Set 3 - Even more GMK sets 4 - Summary and conlusion

As we have already presented several keyboards and will continue to do so in the future, it seems only logical to take a closer look at a key accessory today: the high-quality keycap sets from GMK. And just between you and me: I live for my keyboards and for everything that can be improved, adapted or refined. What for others is simply an input device, for me is a universe of technology, sound and feel all of its own. I listen carefully to how a key strikes, feel the feedback from each individual switch and lose myself in subtleties that most people would probably not even notice. Whether I’m modifying, lubricating and filming switches, searching for the ideal keycap profile, damping cabinets or optimizing the sound, each step is a small project in itself.

For me, it’s not just about function, but about the perfect interplay of feeling, sound and aesthetics. It’s that moment when everything fits just as I imagined it that inspires me again and again. Of course, it takes time, patience and sometimes a bit of willfulness, but you don’t have any other hobbies. For me, it’s not just a pastime, but a real passion that combines technology and creativity in a special way. And where do all the parts come from? Oblotzky Industries was kind enough to provide me with three interesting GMK keycap sets for today’s presentation, which results in a win-win situation for all sides, because I can also pursue my passion here and share it with you.

GMK Keycaps – The introduction

GMK keycaps have long been considered a reference among keyboard enthusiasts and in the professional scene. They are used in almost all demanding builds and can be seen in a large number of videos, reviews and presentations by leading content creators. Their reputation is based not only on their outstanding build quality, but also on the variety of designs and the typical, clearly defined sound profile they produce when typing. The decision to take a closer look at this topic is therefore more than obvious – because anyone who takes a serious look at mechanical keyboards will inevitably come across the name GMK sooner or later. Here we see the Dualshot 2 set in the Katakana Edition:

They stand for exceptional build quality, excellent choice of materials and a design variety that is second to none. GMK keycaps are manufactured from ABS plastic using the so-called Doubleshot process. This production method ensures that the lettering not only looks razor-sharp, but also does not wear off or fade over the years. While ABS as a material is generally more susceptible to gloss formation than PBT, GMK succeeds in providing an above-average long-lasting and yet sonically pleasant typing experience thanks to particularly high manufacturing standards. This is characterized by the clear, slightly “hollow” sound, which is considered particularly pleasant among enthusiasts.

GMK’s design portfolio is also exceptionally wide-ranging. Whether classic, thematic, minimalist or boldly colored – almost every style is covered, often in collaboration with designers from the scene. Many sets appear in limited group buys, which not only gives them collector’s value, but also a certain exclusivity. The resale values of sought-after series are correspondingly high.

The only real point of criticism is often the price. GMK keycap sets are among the more expensive products on the market, not least due to the complex production process and limited availability. However, if you are prepared to invest, a GMK set is an exceptionally high-quality product that sets standards both visually and functionally – and is no longer just an accessory, but a central design element of an entire keyboard.

The packaging of the GMK keycap sets is an example of successful product design with a clear focus on sustainability and environmental awareness. Instead of elaborately coated cardboard boxes or plastic blister packs, GMK has opted for a fully recyclable packaging solution that is both functional and ecologically sound.

Let’s take a closer look at the set. As you would expect from GMK, everything is carefully and thoughtfully packaged – neatly sorted, protected and clearly arranged. As soon as you open it, you get a high-quality impression that underlines the manufacturer’s quality standards.

I particularly like the color design of this set: The buttons are based on the classic colors of the old PlayStation era – a clear nostalgic reference that has been implemented with excellent style. The combination of subtle basic tones and striking color accents looks balanced and harmonious. For lovers of retro-inspired designs, this set is a real eye-catcher.

As usual with GMK, there is a second level underneath, which houses the remaining keycaps. The well thought-out structure of the packaging continues here too: the keycaps are neatly inserted, well protected and clearly separated from each other. This not only ensures safe transportation, but also makes it easier to allocate them later when setting up the desired layout. The entire presentation has an orderly and high-quality appearance – further proof of the care with which GMK prepares its products.

In addition to the main equipment of a GMK keycap set, it is also possible to purchase so-called kits, which expand the set functionally or visually. This is also the case with the set presented here. Among other things, an Accents Kit, a Spacebar Kit, Novelty, Aesthetic or Command Kits are available, each with a specific focus. These kits are primarily used to make individual adjustments to the layout, set special color accents or support additional layout variants, such as for special keyboard sizes, Mac layouts or ortholinear arrangements. The Accents Kit, for example, provides color-contrasting modifiers, while the Novelty Kit contains symbolic or themed special keys that give the overall look a personal touch.

However, these add-ons are usually not inexpensive. The limited production quantities, the complex double-shot production process and the high design standards are also noticeably reflected in the additional kits. For many enthusiasts, however, they are an essential part of the keycap experience – both in terms of design freedom and making full use of the layout. If you want to vary or set visual accents, you will quickly appreciate the design possibilities of these kits.

I received both the Aesthetic Kit and the Accent Kit with this set – two extensions that give the layout not only functional, but above all visual depth. Here you can see very clearly how effectively such a set can be individualized through targeted additions. The Accent Kit comes with targeted color buttons that stand out visually and at the same time harmoniously match the basic tone of the set. This allows specific accents to be set – for example on important modifiers or central function keys – without the overall picture appearing overloaded.

The Aesthetic Kit, on the other hand, complements the layout with special design keys that not only continue the design theme, but also allow additional creative freedom. In combination, the two kits open up a wide range of design possibilities, allowing you to create a very personal and visually sophisticated setup. It shows once again how much GMK values modularity, design variety and attention to detail – aspects that together make up the special appeal of these high-quality keycap sets. It looks like this.

In my opinion, the overall look is extremely successful. The combination of the basic set and the matching additional kits impressively demonstrates how coherently and individually a layout can be designed. This configuration in particular creates a clear visual line that is both eye-catching and stylish.

Let’s take a look at the 2nd set. The GMK NordDe dagger set. This is available in BOW, Beige and Dagger format. Here I have the dagger version. This is an ISO-DE set.

The set convinces with a very successful color scheme, which unfolds its full effect especially on a black case. The contrasts are clear, the accents subtle but effective, a combination that is immediately visually appealing. I only made one small mistake during assembly, as I inadvertently placed the Y in the position above instead of the Z. However, this is a detail that can be easily corrected. Fortunately, the set contains both an ISO-DE-Enter key and an ANSI-Enter, so that the layout can be flexibly adapted. It is therefore also possible to use an ANSI set on a pure ISO-DE board – provided you are aware that umlauts, special characters and certain key positions will then no longer correspond to the actual key imprint. In particular, Y and Z would be swapped if no software adjustment is made.

Of course, there is no obligation to go down this route. For all those who value an exact match with the physical layout, there are – as in this case – specially compiled ISO-DE sets that are fully localized. I personally like ANSI layouts better visually, especially because of the compact and more elegant-looking Enter key. Ultimately, however, this decision is purely subjective – depending on taste, writing habits or area of application. In any case, the design freedom that GMK offers with its set variants enables a convincing implementation for both layout forms.

On the second level are the additional caps as well as caps for a numpad.

Incidentally, these sets are made of ABS, but why are they so popular? In contrast to PBT keycaps, which are more robust against gloss formation, ABS offers a particularly pleasant typing feel and a characteristically clear, resonant sound when processed correctly. Especially in combination with high-quality switches and damping keyboard housings, this results in sounds that are often deliberately sought after in the custom community. GMK succeeds in delaying the typical disadvantage of ABS, the so-called “shinying”, i.e. shining due to wear, for a long time thanks to particularly dense and evenly structured surfaces. In addition, better color designs are possible, But who exactly is GMK?

GMK – quality and precision from Germany

GMK has been a family-run company based in Germany since it was founded in 1992. All development steps and the entire production process take place on site. This not only results in particularly short distances, but also the highest level of production control. Direct communication with customers and reliable support are part of everyday practice here and not just a promise, as premium-quality service is an integral part of the company philosophy.

The outstanding quality of the products is based on the careful selection of high-quality materials, ultra-modern, automated production and over three decades of experience in plastics processing. Each individual product is the result of a combination of technical precision, meticulous implementation and attention to detail. This claim is clearly reflected in the feel and keystroke of the manufactured keycaps. Thanks to the MX cross-shaft standard used, GMK keycaps are compatible with most mechanical keyboard switches. This proven standard enables flexible use, regardless of the keyboard model, and ensures that the products can be used in a variety of systems without any problems.

GMK proves to be particularly flexible when implementing community projects, for example as part of so-called group buys. Whether alternative key labels, special layouts, unusual color concepts or special packaging solutions, the company supports individual projects with great commitment and technical expertise. Customer requests that go beyond the usual are expressly welcome here. A particularly striking feature of GMK keycaps is the color design. The colors used are intense, uniform and extremely precise. Both classic keyboard designs and experimental color schemes benefit from an exact implementation that sets standards both visually and qualitatively. The consistent production quality contributes significantly to the overall visual impression.

GMK therefore stands for the art of engineering in miniature, implemented in a product that goes far beyond its mere function. Anyone who appreciates uncompromising quality, reliable consistency and a distinctive variety of designs will find these keycaps to be a solution that combines technical precision with aesthetic appeal. So I like them 🙂