In the ever-evolving world of mechanical keyboards, finding the perfect balance between performance, features, and price can feel like a quest. Enter the S75 PRO Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, a compelling contender that promises a premium experience without the premium price tag. This 75% layout keyboard, often referred to by its model name, the Aula F75, packs a surprising punch with its integrated screen, versatile knob, and a foundation built for customization. If you're a gamer or a typist looking to upgrade your setup, this detailed review will walk you through everything you need to know.
First Impressions: Unboxing the Aula F75 PRO
Right out of the box, the Aula F75 PRO makes a strong statement. The keyboard feels substantial and well-built, a far cry from the hollow, plasticky feel of many budget options. The included PBT keycaps have a pleasant, textured finish that resists shine over time, and the overall aesthetic is clean and modern. The star of the show, however, is undoubtedly the 1.14-inch TFT color screen nestled above the arrow keys. Paired with a polished metal control knob, it gives the keyboard a distinct, high-tech look that sets it apart from the crowd. This initial quality check immediately aligns with the growing reputation of Aula keyboards for offering exceptional value.
Design & Build: More Than Just a Pretty Face
The 75% Layout Advantage
The 75 percent mechanical keyboard layout is a sweet spot for many users. It retains the crucial function row and arrow keys that are often sacrificed on 60% boards, while still saving significant desk space compared to a full-sized keyboard. The Aula F75 PRO executes this layout flawlessly, with well-spaced keys and a comfortable typing angle. The case has a slight heft to it, providing stability during intense gaming sessions, and the included two-stage kickstands allow for further angle adjustment.
The Screen and Knob: Functional Flair
The inclusion of a screen might seem gimmicky at first, but on the Aula F75, it's genuinely useful. It can display a variety of information: system stats like CPU and GPU usage, custom animations or GIFs, keyboard settings, and even a live preview of the current RGB lighting mode. The adjacent metal knob is multi-functional; it can control volume, scroll web pages, adjust RGB brightness, or zoom in and out—all programmable via software. This combination elevates it from a simple input device to an interactive desktop centerpiece.
Performance & Typing Experience
Pre-lubed Switches for a Creamy Sound
One of the most touted features of this keyboard is its "creamy sounding" profile. This is achieved through the use of factory pre-lubed switches. Our review unit came with linear switches that were remarkably smooth and consistent out of the box. The lubrication reduces scratchiness and pinging, resulting in a deep, thocky sound that is immensely satisfying. Whether you're typing a long document or spamming keys in a game, the acoustic experience is premium. This focus on sound quality right out of the box is a huge win for users who want a great experience without immediately diving into the world of manual switch lubing.
The Hot-Swap Revolution
Perhaps the most future-proof feature is its hot swappable keyboard design. The PCB supports 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches, meaning you can easily pull out the stock switches and replace them with any other compatible switch on the market. Want a more tactile feel? Swap in some Boba U4Ts. Prefer a lighter actuation? The world is your oyster. This feature transforms the Aula F75 from a static product into a platform for endless customization, allowing your keyboard to evolve with your preferences.
Wireless Freedom and Connectivity
As a true wireless gaming keyboard, the Aula F75 PRO offers triple-mode connectivity: a stable 2.4GHz wireless connection via the included dongle, Bluetooth 5.0 for connecting to multiple devices, and a reliable USB-C wired mode. In our testing, the 2.4GHz connection was flawless for gaming, with no perceptible latency. The battery life is impressive, lasting for days even with the RGB lighting on, making it a fantastic option for a clean, cable-free desk setup.
Software and Customization
To unlock the full potential of the keyboard with screen, you'll need to use Aula's proprietary software. The interface is relatively straightforward, allowing you to remap any key, create complex macros, and design custom lighting effects for the per-key RGB backlighting. The most fun is had with the screen customization; you can upload your own images or GIFs, adjust the information displayed, and even set different profiles for different applications. While the software isn't the most polished on the market, it is powerful and gets the job done.
Who Is the Aula F75 PRO For?
This keyboard is a fantastic choice for a few key demographics:
- Gamers on a Budget: It offers features (hot-swap, screen, wireless) typically found on keyboards twice its price.
- Custom Keyboard Beginners: The hot-swap socket and good stock experience provide a perfect, low-risk entry point into customization.
- Professionals & Typists: The excellent stock typing feel, wireless capability, and compact layout make it great for productivity.
- Anyone Who Wants a Feature-Packed Centerpiece: The screen and knob simply add a layer of interactivity and cool factor that's hard to find elsewhere.
Final Verdict
The Aula F75 PRO Wireless Mechanical Keyboard is a revelation in the budget-to-midrange segment. It doesn't just check boxes; it excels in several key areas. The typing experience is superb thanks to the pre-lubed switches and PBT keycaps, the 75% layout is practical, and the wireless performance is rock-solid. The customizable screen and knob are the cherry on top, offering both utility and personality. While the software could be more refined, it's a minor gripe in the face of such overwhelming value. If you're looking for a versatile, high-performance keyboard that punches far above its weight class, the Aula F75 deserves your serious consideration. It successfully bridges the gap between an off-the-shelf gaming peripheral and a custom keyboard hobbyist's dream, making it one of the most compelling packages available today.
