Finding a mechanical keyboard with a lot of features for under $100 isn’t easy. That’s where the AULA F99 Pro comes in. At around $80, this keyboard is packed with features usually found in pricier models. From its 96% layout that keeps things compact while still giving you most of a full keyboard, to its triple-mode connectivity, the F99 Pro seems like a serious bang for your buck.
Plus, with an 8000mAh battery, it’s ready for all-day typing and gaming without frequent recharges. And let’s not forget the rotary knob for easy volume control—no more fumbling with function keys. AULA even went the extra mile with gasket mounting and sound-dampening materials for that premium feel and quieter typing experience, which you don’t usually see in budget keyboards. In this review, we’ll dive into every detail: the design, the typing experience, the RGB lighting, and more.
Design and Build Quality
Right out of the box, the AULA F99 Pro makes a solid first impression. Despite being a budget-friendly keyboard, it doesn’t feel cheap at all. The 96% layout is one of its standout features—basically giving you almost all the keys from a full-size keyboard but in a more compact form. It saves desk space, looks clean, and still includes a numpad.
The build itself feels sturdy. The ABS plastic casing is tough enough to handle everyday use, and the keyboard has a satisfying heft to it, which is unusual in this price range. It doesn’t have that flimsy, plasticky vibe that a lot of budget keyboards do. The keyboard’s weight adds a premium feel, and it’s not going to slide around your desk while you type.
One unique addition is the rotary knob in the top corner. For a budget keyboard, having a dedicated volume knob is a nice touch, and AULA nailed it here. This knob feels smooth and has satisfying little clicks as it turns. It’s not just for volume; you can also use it to control RGB lighting, adding a bit of extra functionality without the hassle of function keys.
The F99 Pro also has gasket mounting—a rare feature in keyboards under $100. This design means that the keyboard is mounted with a bit of flexible material that absorbs vibrations, making each keystroke feel softer and more cushioned. Combined with five layers of sound-dampening material, this keyboard delivers a more muted, “thocky” typing sound that enthusiasts love. It’s a feature you usually only see on higher-end keyboards, so having it here adds a lot of value for anyone who cares about typing acoustics and comfort.
On the back, you’ve got the basics: a Type-C port for wired connection, a switch for Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless modes, and adjustable feet to raise or lower the angle. The feet are sturdy, which is great because it means the keyboard won’t wobble if you’re typing at an angle.
RGB Lighting and Customization
The AULA F99 Pro doesn’t just offer functionality—it brings a lot of style to your setup, thanks to its south-facing RGB lighting. RGB lighting is almost expected in modern keyboards, but the F99 Pro does it well, with a variety of lighting modes that can suit any mood or aesthetic.
The F99 Pro offers multiple RGB modes and effects right out of the box, including breathing, static, wave, and even reactive modes where the lights respond to your key presses. The colors are vivid, and the lighting is customizable in terms of brightness and speed, allowing you to set it to anything from a soft glow to a dynamic light show. The south-facing design also ensures that the light doesn’t glare directly in your eyes, creating a more ambient glow around the keyboard.
Paired with the side-printed PBT keycaps, the RGB lighting has a unique effect. Since the legends are printed on the sides, the light shines through the body of the keys, giving it a modern, clean look without the usual bright light on top of the keycaps.
Customization Options with AULA Driver Software
The F99 Pro comes with AULA’s Driver software, which lets you take the customization even further. While it’s not as advanced as high-end software like VIA or QMK, the AULA Driver software still offers a decent level of customization. Here’s what you can do with it:
- RGB Customization: Within the software, you can choose from a range of colors, patterns, and speeds. You can even create custom lighting profiles, which is handy if you like to switch between different setups for work and gaming.
- Macro Creation: The software also allows for basic macro programming. This is a great feature if you use certain key combinations often, for gaming shortcuts or work functions. You can program your macros to any key, making repetitive tasks much easier.
- Debounce Time Adjustment: Gamers will appreciate the ability to adjust the debounce time—a feature that can help minimize input delay for a faster response time. This customization makes the F99 Pro a strong choice for gaming, where every millisecond counts.
Key Switches and Typing Experience
Let’s talk about what it’s like to actually type on the AULA F99 Pro because, honestly, that’s where it really starts to shine. This keyboard comes with Nimbus V3 linear switches, which offer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke. For those not familiar with linear switches, don’t have the tactile bump you’d find in other switches (like brown switches). Instead, they have a soft, straight-down feel, which makes them great for fast typing and gaming. You won’t get that “clicky” sound, but you will get smooth, responsive keys that feel just right for everyday use.
These switches are also lightweight—with an initial actuation force of 30g and a bottom-out force of 45g—so pressing the keys takes minimal effort. This makes the F99 Pro comfortable to type on for extended periods, which is ideal for anyone who spends a lot of time typing or gaming. Plus, the linear nature of these switches is especially appealing if you’re sensitive to noise or just prefer a quieter typing experience.
The flex-cut PCB and gasket mount are one feature that adds to the typing experience. These combine to make each keystroke feel cushioned and soft, rather than the harsh “clack” you get with some budget mechanical keyboards. It’s subtle, but if you pay attention, you’ll notice a slight bounce or “give” when you type. This setup also reduces the keyboard’s vibrations and gives it a deeper, more “thocky” sound profile that fans of premium keyboards usually appreciate.
Now, let’s talk about the keycaps. The AULA F99 Pro uses double-shot PBT keycaps with side-printed legends. These keycaps are durable, resistant to wear, and have a nice texture, so they won’t get that shiny, worn-out look over time. The side-printed legends are cool; they’re bold, easy to read, and give the keyboard a unique, clean look. Plus, the keycaps are shine-through, allowing the RGB lighting to show through just enough for an added visual flair without being overpowering.
Connectivity Options
One of the standout features of the AULA F99 Pro is its triple-mode connectivity. For a keyboard in this price range, having the option to switch between Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired modes is a huge plus. The F99 Pro supports Bluetooth 5.0, which is both reliable and energy-efficient. With Bluetooth, you can connect the keyboard to various devices like laptops, tablets, and even phones. Plus, the F99 Pro lets you switch between up to three Bluetooth devices.
If you’re looking for a stable connection with minimal latency, especially for gaming, the 2.4 GHz wireless mode is the way to go. The keyboard comes with a USB dongle tucked away in a magnetic compartment on the back, which is a nice touch for storage and portability. Once plugged in, you’re connected instantly, with almost no noticeable delay—a crucial feature if you’re gaming or working on something that requires precision. But if prefer a direct connection, or when the battery is low, the USB-C wired mode is simple and effective to get fast charging and stable connectivity, for long typing or gaming sessions.
Everyday Use and Battery Life
The massive 8000mAh battery is another advantage for both gaming and productivity. This battery size means you won’t be constantly searching for a charger, even with RGB lighting enabled. For heavy use, you’re likely looking at weeks of usage before needing to recharge in Bluetooth mode, and a solid week or more in 2.4 GHz mode, even with moderate RGB brightness. This extended battery life is ideal for uninterrupted productivity and gaming sessions alike. One thing to note is that charging takes a bit longer due to the large battery size, but it’s a fair trade-off for the extended usage time. And with the USB-C port, you can easily keep the keyboard plugged in during long sessions if needed.
Final Verdict
After putting the AULA F99 Pro through its paces, it’s safe to say that this keyboard offers outstanding value for the price. Packed with features that are typically found in more expensive models, the F99 Pro goes above and beyond expectations for a budget mechanical keyboard. For around $80, you get a well-built keyboard with a 96% layout, triple-mode connectivity, an 8000mAh battery, gasket mounting, and vibrant RGB lighting.
One of the keyboard’s biggest strengths is its versatility. The triple connectivity modes—Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless, and wired USB-C—make it adaptable for both gaming and productivity. The Nimbus V3 linear switches also deliver a comfortable, smooth typing experience, with a lightweight feel that’s suitable for long hours of typing or gaming. For budget-conscious gamers or professionals who need flexibility, this is a strong option.
However, it’s not without a few compromises. The AULA Driver software allows for basic customization but lacks the depth of more advanced programs, which could limit personalization options for serious enthusiasts. Additionally, the large 8000mAh battery takes a bit longer to charge, and the rotary knob, while functional, doesn’t have the same premium feel as other components.
Ultimately, the AULA F99 Pro is ideal for anyone looking to get the most value out of a budget keyboard. If you’re upgrading from a standard membrane keyboard, this is a big step up, offering features and a typing experience that could easily fit into a higher price bracket. Don’t miss out on the F99 Pro, a $70 keyboard that offers premium features without the premium price! Grab yours now on Amazon or AliExpress or shop directly on the official site.
