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AULA F75 vs GravaStar Mercury K1

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

all judged against mechanical keyboards at a similar price

The GravaStar Mercury K1 scores 6.5/10 overall, ahead of the AULA F75 at 6.3/10.

The AULA F75 leads on customisation and layout and ergonomics.

The GravaStar Mercury K1 leads on typing feel and build quality.

They score the same on connectivity and battery and software.

The biggest difference is build quality, where the GravaStar Mercury K1 scores 8/10 to the AULA F75's 5/10.

AULA F75

AULA F75

6.3/10verdict: good, not the best

The AULA F75 is a 75% wireless, hot-swap keyboard for people who want a compact board with Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and wired options. It suits buyers who will lube a stabiliser if needed and who mostly use it with the lights off. It is less suited to anyone who wants an all-metal case or has to rely on the companion software.

Typically about £59.99 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

GravaStar Mercury K1

GravaStar Mercury K1

6.5/10verdict: buy

The GravaStar Mercury K1 is for people who want a compact 75% wireless keyboard with an aluminium frame. It suits buyers who value a muted, cushioned sound and want to swap switches later. It is less suited to anyone who needs a specific regional layout or confirmed remapping tools.

Typically about £129 in the UK when we researched itCheck price at Amazon UK (opens in a new tab, affiliate link)

Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Details

Scores, criterion by criterion

CriterionWeightAULA F75GravaStar Mercury K1
Typing feel25%6/107/10
Build quality20%5/108/10
Customisation20%7/105/10
Connectivity15%7/107/10
Layout and ergonomics10%7/105/10
Battery and software10%6/106/10
Overall6.3/106.5/10

Specifications

SpecAULA F75GravaStar Mercury K1
Layout75%, 80 keys; ANSI and ISO variants offered75%, 79 keys plus rotary knob
SwitchesLEOBOG Reaper linear (default), factory lubed; other options include TTC & AULA Crescent, LEOBOG Ice Vein, LEOBOG Greywood V3 and Dream SakuraGravaStar Custom Linear, 40gf actuation, 1.5mm pre-travel, 3.5mm total travel
Hot-swappableYes; 3-pin and 5-pin socketsYes, 3-pin and 5-pin compatible
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless and wired; paired-device count conflicting (three or five)Tri-mode: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless and USB-C wired
Firmware (QMK / VIA)Manufacturer lists a firmware download and a VIA JSON file; QMK build not confirmednot listed
KeycapsCherry profile; material conflicting (double-shot PBT per one retailer, ABS per one UK review)PBT and PC
Battery4000mAh rechargeable lithium; advertised 266 hours without lights and 17.5 hours with lights8000mAh

Strengths and weaknesses

AULA F75

  • + Hot-swap sockets for 3-pin and 5-pin switches
  • + Long advertised battery life with lights off
  • + ISO variant offered alongside ANSI
  • − Stabiliser rattle reported by a meaningful minority
  • − Companion software called clunky, buggy and outdated

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who want a metal case rather than ABS plastic
  • Anyone who doesn't want to lube stabilisers if they rattle
  • People who rely on companion software for remapping and lighting
Read the full AULA F75 review ›

GravaStar Mercury K1

  • + Aluminium alloy frame praised as solid and heavy
  • + Gasket mount with foam gives muted, cushioned typing
  • + Hot-swap sockets take 3-pin and 5-pin switches
  • − Volume roller is plastic styled to look like metal
  • − Front logo placement does not blend in
  • − Backplate is plastic beneath the aluminium frame

Skip it if:

  • Buyers who need a full numpad
  • Anyone who wants a loud, sharp typing sound
  • Buyers who want metal controls throughout
Read the full GravaStar Mercury K1 review ›

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