Introduction

Once a crowd favorite, the AULA F99 Mechanical Keyboard captured the hearts of many gamers and typists alike. Now, a new contender has emerged: the RK F99, bringing fresh design, versatile switch options, and improved connectivity. Taking it a step further, the RK F99 AI introduces modern conveniences like AI-powered shortcuts, making it a keyboard built for today’s fast-paced lifestyle. In this guide, we'll explore how these keyboards compare in design, typing experience, connectivity, features, and overall value, so you can decide which one fits your setup best.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• 1. Design & Build
• 2. Switches & Typing Experience
• 3. Connectivity & Battery
• 4. Features & Customization
• 5. Who Should Choose Which?
• Conclusion

1. Design & Build

When it comes to design, both keyboards sport a compact 96% layout, but there are notable differences:

Takeaway

All three keyboards feature a compact 96% layout and durable plastic construction. The RK F99 series is lightweight at 0.7 kg and uses a three-layer sound dampening system (thick bottom foam, IXPE switch pad, and latex dampener) to reduce hollow sounds. Its double-shot PBT keycaps are durable and resist shine from prolonged use. The AULA F99 has five layers for sound dampening but is heavier at 1.5 kg. Users who prefer a lighter keyboard with effective sound control and durable keycaps may find the RK F99 series suitable, while those who appreciate a slightly heavier build and extra dampening might consider the AULA F99. Discover more RK 96% layout bestsellers and customer favorites here.

2. Switches & Typing Experience

Typing comfort and responsiveness are key for any keyboard: The RK F99 offers versatile typing experiences, while AULA F99 provides a single linear option. Here's a summary of the three keyboards:

RK F99 Series Switches Comparison

The RK F99 series offers three distinct switch options—Cream, Beige, and Silent—each designed to cater to different typing preferences and usage scenarios. Below is a detailed comparison:

💡 Hear the difference: Click the videos below to listen to sound tests of all three switch types, helping you choose the one that best fits your typing and gaming needs.

Takeaway

The RK F99 series offers three distinct switch types to accommodate different typing preferences and usage scenarios. Each switch comes pre-lubed, providing a smoother keystroke and consistent feel. Users can choose smooth linear, tactile feedback, or ultra-quiet switches depending on whether their priority is gaming responsiveness, quiet office work, or general typing comfort. Fans of these switch types can also find them on the RK L series keyboards, giving you more options to suit your setup.

3. Connectivity & Battery

Connectivity and battery life can make or break your experience, especially for wireless users. Both RK F99 and AULA F99 support three connection modes—Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C—providing flexibility for desktops, laptops, or portable use. Additionally, the RK F99 series supports multi-device Bluetooth pairing, allowing seamless switching between up to three devices.

The RK F99 AI is designed to fully leverage its AI features, such as voice shortcuts and productivity tools. To ensure these features operate reliably and with minimal latency, it uses wired USB-C only, providing a stable connection without wireless interference.

Battery Specifications and Usage

RK F99: Boasting a high-capacity 5000mAh battery, this 96% keyboard offers up to 550 hours of non-stop use with RGB backlight off and 30 hours with RGB on. Users can quickly check remaining power via the FN + ENTER shortcut and fully recharge within 10 hours.

AULA F99: Equipped with an 8000mAh battery, it provides up to 400 hours with RGB off and 53 hours with RGB on, supporting long sessions without frequent charging.

Takeaway

The RK F99 series offers flexible connectivity and extended battery life, suitable for a variety of setups. Users who need wireless convenience or multi-device management will find it versatile. The RK F99 AI provides a stable wired connection to ensure its AI features function optimally. AULA F99 offers a larger battery and standard connectivity options, supporting users who prefer a traditional three-mode setup.

4. Features & Customization

All three keyboards—RK F99 series and AULA F99—offer robust RGB lighting customization and software support, giving users full control over appearance and functionality.

The RK F99 series stands out with south-facing RGB LEDs, making the backlighting brighter, more uniform, and easier to see from different angles. Users can access 16 preset lighting modes and adjust effects directly via hotkeys:

• Fn + PRTSC → Cycle through 16 preset modes
• Fn + DEL → Switch to single-color lighting
• Fn + HOME → Record custom lighting
• Fn + ↑ / ↓ → Adjust brightness
• Fn + ← / → → Adjust dynamic effect speed

The RK F99 AI takes customization further by integrating Smart AI Voice Input & Translation and One-Touch AI Shortcuts:

• Smart AI Voice Input & Translation: Real-time voice-to-text transcription supporting 60+ languages and over 300 words per minute, ideal for fast drafting, note-taking, and multilingual communication.
• One-Touch AI Shortcuts & Productivity Tools: Built on DeepSeek and Microsoft Azure models, including AI Q&A, PPT & mind map generation, image creation, writing, proofreading, translation, text extraction, meeting notes, and mind mapping, accessible via dedicated shortcuts.

Takeaway

All keyboards provide extensive RGB and software customization, enabling users to personalize lighting and macros for gaming, streaming, or productivity. The south-facing LEDs on the RK F99 series enhance visibility and brightness, making RGB effects more vivid. The RK F99 AI adds advanced AI features for voice input, translation, and productivity, bridging the gap between work and play. Whether for gaming, creative work, or office tasks, these keyboards deliver versatile customization and performance to suit different user needs.

5. Who Should Choose Which?

Choosing the right keyboard depends on usage scenario, workflow, and personal preferences. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. RK F99 Series (F99 & F99 AI)

Gamers:

• Switch variety (Linear, Tactile, Silent) for different play styles
• South-facing RGB lighting for clearer, more vibrant effects
• Customizable macros and on-board/software RGB for personalized setups
• Multi-device pairing enables seamless switching between PC, laptop, and tablet

Productivity & Creative Professionals:

• F99 AI adds AI-powered productivity tools: voice-to-text transcription, AI shortcuts, real-time translation, content generation, and mind mapping
• Ideal for fast note-taking, multilingual communication, writing, or designing
• Wired connection ensures stable performance for AI tasks

Everyday Typists & Budget-Conscious Users:

• Smooth pre-lubed switches and quiet options make typing comfortable
• Competitive pricing and frequent promotions make RK F99 a budget-friendly choice
• Full customization supports personal workflows or home/office setups

2. AULA F99

• Budget-Friendly Basic Use: Functional mechanical keyboard at a lower price
• Basic Gaming or Typing Needs: Linear switch option and standard RGB
• Long Battery Life: Supports extended use without frequent charging, suitable for home, office, or study setups

Conclusion

All three keyboards are reliable mechanical options, but the RK F99 series stands out for its versatility, feature-rich design, and budget-friendly pricing. Whether you’re gaming, coding, or working across multiple devices, it adapts to different needs while offering customizable switches, south-facing RGB, and AI productivity features (for F99 AI). Click here to learn more about the RK F99 series.

The AULA F99 remains a solid, straightforward choice with standard RGB and long battery life, ideal for users who want a basic, dependable mechanical keyboard at a lower price point.