A good keycap set can completely change the character of a mechanical keyboard. GMK Chocolatier 2 takes that idea in a distinctly sweet direction, combining chocolate-brown tones with yellow accents in a set designed for enthusiasts who care about both appearance and build quality.
Also listed by GMK as GMK CYL Chocolatier R2, this is the return of the popular Chocolatier design after an eight-year wait. The set uses GMK's CYL profile, 1.5 mm double-shot ABS keycaps and an MX-style mounting system. For Australian keyboard enthusiasts, Keyboard Treehouse is the Australian regional vendor.
But is Chocolatier 2 the right set for your keyboard? Here's what you need to know before choosing a kit.
What Is GMK Chocolatier 2?
GMK Chocolatier 2 is a premium mechanical keyboard keycap set designed by Zambumon and manufactured in Germany by GMK electronic design GmbH.
The design brings back the original Chocolatier colourway, using its familiar chocolate-inspired palette while making a small update to the yellow accent keys: the current version uses dark-brown legends rather than the black legends used on the original run.
The set is available in two main options: a Core Kit for common keyboard layouts and an Extension Kit for more specialised configurations.
That distinction matters. Rather than buying a large collection of keys you may never use, you can choose the kit that matches your particular build.
Why Did GMK Chocolatier Return?
The original Chocolatier set has a story behind its colourway. Zambumon's design was inspired by the 2005 film adaptation of Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
The original concept included the idea of three colourways based on Wonka bar wrappers. Rather than producing all three as separate colourways, the colours became novelty keycaps. Those colours return as accent keys in Chocolatier 2 through its stretch-goal design.
After an eight-year gap, the return gives enthusiasts who missed the first release another opportunity to build around one of the more recognisable chocolate-themed GMK designs.
Who Designed GMK Chocolatier 2?
Zambumon is the designer behind GMK Chocolatier 2.
The appeal of the design is its simplicity. The brown base creates a warm, understated foundation, while the yellow accents provide enough contrast to give the keyboard some personality without making the colour scheme feel overwhelming.
For a custom keyboard, that's useful because the set can become the main visual feature without dictating the rest of your desk setup.
What Profile Does GMK Chocolatier 2 Use?
GMK Chocolatier 2 uses the Original Cherry Cylindrical profile, also referred to as GMK CYL. The row sequence is 1-1-2-3-4-4.
The different row heights and angles create a sculpted typing surface rather than a uniform keycap profile. If you're already familiar with Cherry-profile keycaps, the general shape will feel familiar.
If you're moving from another profile, however, don't assume that every keycap set will feel the same. Profile, switch type, plate, case and typing angle all contribute to the final experience.
What Are GMK Chocolatier 2 Keycaps Made From?
The keycaps are made from 1.5 mm ABS plastic using double-shot injection moulding. GMK says the set is developed and manufactured in Germany.
Double-shot construction means the legends are moulded as part of the keycap rather than simply printed on top. It's one of the characteristics that has helped make GMK sets popular among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
There is one practical consideration with ABS: frequently used keys can develop a smoother, shinier appearance over time. For many GMK owners, that is simply a natural part of using an ABS keycap set rather than a flaw that needs to be avoided.
What Is Included in the GMK Chocolatier 2 Core Kit?
The Core Kit is the starting point for most standard keyboard builds.
Keyboard Treehouse lists support for:
- 60% keyboards
- 65% keyboards
- 75% keyboards
- TKL keyboards
- 1800 layouts
- 100% full-size keyboards
It also supports standard and winkeyless variants and includes coverage for ANSI and UK ISO configurations. The listed Core Kit contains 143 keycaps, with additional blue keycaps tied to the original stretch-goal targets.
If you're building a conventional 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL or full-size keyboard, this is the kit I'd check first.
What Is Included in the GMK Chocolatier 2 Extension Kit?
The Extension Kit is designed for keyboards that need less common key sizes or additional keys.
It adds support for configurations including:
- HHKB
- Standalone numpads
- Ergonomic keyboards
- Split keyboards
- 660 layouts
- 40% keyboards
The Extension Kit contains 31 keycaps, with additional blue keys associated with the stretch-goal targets.
You don't automatically need both kits. The right choice depends on your keyboard's exact layout.
Which Keyboard Layouts Are Compatible With GMK Chocolatier 2?
The easiest way to think about compatibility is to start with your keyboard rather than the keycap set.
| Keyboard layout | Kit to check |
| 60% | Core |
| 65% | Core |
| 75% | Core |
| TKL | Core |
| 1800 | Core |
| Full-size | Core |
| HHKB | Extension |
| Numpad | Extension |
| Split | Extension |
| Ergonomic | Extension |
| 40% | Extension |
There can still be differences between keyboards within the same layout category, particularly around bottom rows, spacebars, split backspace configurations and other non-standard keys. Checking your exact layout before ordering is the safest approach.
Is GMK Chocolatier 2 Compatible With MX-Style Switches?
Yes. GMK Chocolatier 2 is designed for MX-style switches.
The key point is the switch stem: GMK specifies compatibility with the industry-standard MX cross mount, while its product information also refers to Cherry MX switches or corresponding cross mounts.
If your keyboard uses a conventional MX-compatible switch, the set should be the right type of keycap to consider. If you're using an unusual mounting system, check its specifications before purchasing.
GMK Chocolatier 2 Core Kit vs Extension Kit: Which One Do You Need?
For most standard layouts, the Core Kit should be your first choice.
The Extension Kit becomes relevant when your keyboard uses a specialised layout or requires additional keys not included in the Core Kit.
For example, Keyboard Treehouse's own keyboard compatibility examples show that some boards can use the Core Kit alone, while others require or optionally benefit from the Extension Kit depending on their configuration.
The best approach is simple: identify your keyboard layout first, then compare the required key sizes with the kit contents.
Is GMK Chocolatier 2 Worth Buying?
For someone who wants a distinctive GMK set rather than a generic replacement set, GMK Chocolatier 2 has a lot going for it.
You get a recognisable Zambumon design, the GMK CYL profile, 1.5 mm double-shot ABS construction, broad support for common layouts and an optional Extension Kit for more specialised builds.
The main things to consider are your keyboard's exact layout, whether you need the Extension Kit and whether you are happy with the characteristics of ABS keycaps.
If the chocolate-brown and yellow colourway suits your build and your keyboard is compatible, it is a particularly easy set to build a theme around.
Where to Buy GMK Chocolatier 2?
If you're looking to buy GMK Chocolatier 2, Keyboard Treehouse currently offers the Core and Extension Kits through its online store, with worldwide shipping available. The store also lists Keyboard Treehouse as one of the regional vendors for the set.
Before ordering, check your keyboard's exact layout and compare it with the included keys. Most common layouts are covered by the Core Kit, while the Extension Kit adds support for specialised configurations such as HHKB, split, ergonomic and 40% keyboards.
GMK Chocolatier 2 FAQs
What profile is GMK Chocolatier 2?
It uses GMK's CYL profile, based on the Original Cherry Cylindrical profile with a 1-1-2-3-4-4 row sequence.
Is GMK Chocolatier 2 ABS or PBT?
It is made from 1.5 mm ABS plastic with double-shot injection moulding.
Does GMK Chocolatier 2 work with MX switches?
Yes. The set uses the standard MX cross-mount design and is compatible with MX-style switches.
Do I need the Extension Kit?
Not necessarily. Standard layouts such as 60%, 65%, 75%, TKL, 1800 and full-size are covered by the Core Kit. Specialised layouts may require the Extension Kit.
Who designed GMK Chocolatier 2?
The set was designed by Zambumon.
Is GMK Chocolatier 2 suitable for a 65% keyboard?
Yes. The Core Kit is designed to support 65% layouts, although checking your keyboard's exact key configuration before ordering is still recommended.
What is the difference between GMK Chocolatier and Chocolatier 2?
Chocolatier 2 retains the original base colours while making a small change to the yellow accent keys: the legends are dark brown rather than black.