GMMK2 96% $129

The GMMK2 96% packs a full alphanumeric layout plus a numpad into a shell noticeably smaller than a traditional full-size board by tightening the spacing between clusters — the 96% format trades a small amount of ergonomic breathing room for meaningful desk-space savings versus a true 100%.

Glorious's GOAT stabilizers, factory-installed, are a genuine step up over the clip-in stabilizers most budget boards ship with — noticeably less rattle out of the box, which matters more on a 96% given the number of stabilized keys (numpad enter, plus, spacebar, both shifts).

Firmware runs through Glorious's own Core software rather than open-source QMK/VIA directly, which is a slightly different (though still capable) remapping experience than boards using stock VIA — worth knowing if you're used to the VIA interface from other boards.

The tray/gasket hybrid mount gives the GMMK2 96% a moderate amount of cushioning without the pronounced bounce of a full gasket design — a sensible middle ground for a board this large, since a 96%'s wider case is inherently less flexible than a compact 60% or 65% regardless of mount style. Per-key RGB, rather than the south-facing-only lighting found on most boards in this price range, is a genuine differentiator for buyers who want visual customization as part of the appeal.

At $129, the GMMK2 96% undercuts most other full-alphanumeric-plus-numpad options while including hotswap, QMK/VIA-compatible firmware, and factory GOAT stabilizers — features that typically require either a higher price or a DIY stabilizer swap on competing boards. The tradeoff is the Glorious Core software layer instead of native VIA, and a case that, per-key RGB aside, doesn't attempt to compete with boutique 96%+ options on machining tolerances. For buyers who specifically want a numpad and don't want to pay boutique prices for it, this remains one of the more direct routes to that layout.

Wired USB-C connectivity is standard, and while firmware runs through Glorious Core rather than open-source QMK/VIA directly, the remapping and layer-key functionality is comparable in practice. Given its price, layout, and factory stabilizers, the GMMK2 96% is best suited to buyers who specifically want a numpad without paying boutique prices for one — buyers who don't need the numpad are better served by a cheaper 65% or 75% board on this list instead.

The 5-pin hotswap PCB lets buyers change switches without soldering, which pairs naturally with the per-key RGB — testing different switch types across a 96%'s many keys is faster when nothing needs desoldering first, and the lighting makes it easy to visually confirm every position is populated correctly after a swap.

KeebTracker verifies stock status manually rather than via an automated feed — the Low Stock label reflects our most recent check, so buyers close to a purchase decision should confirm current availability directly with Glorious before assuming units are still available.