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Compare AULA F87 Pro vs Varmilo Sakura R2 Differences Side by Side

This comparison is for buyers torn between a modern, compact workhorse and a larger, design-focused premium keyboard. The AULA F87 Pro offers a gasket-mounted, 80% layout with extensive sound dampening at a lower cost, while the Varmilo Sakura R2 is a full-size board with a unique hand-drawn Sakura theme and a heavier, more substantial build. The decision hinges on prioritizing desk space and wireless utility versus a dedicated numpad and a specific visual identity.

EPOMAKER x AULA F87 Pro
Sakura R2

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4.7 (20)
0.0 (0)
  • Released in 2023
  • Available in a 80% layout
  • Built with the ANSI layout standard
  • Has built-in sound dampening
  • Uses a Gasket Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, connectivity
  • Equipped with a 4000 mAh battery
  • Weighs about 1023 g
  • Sized at 41 x 139 x 365 mm
  • Made with a PBT, Silicone case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb RGB lighting
  • Released in 2022
  • Has Silent, Linear, Tactile switch options
  • Available in a 100% layout
  • Built with the ANSI, ANSI-RU layout standard
  • Uses a Top Mount mounting style
  • Supports Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only connectivity
  • Weighs about 2170 g
  • Sized at 37 x 139 x 455 mm
  • Made with a Plastic case
  • Offers Yes, Rgb, White RGB lighting
Scores
  • Performance: 48
  • Build Quality: 47
  • Productivity: 62.6
  • Customizability: 52.8
  • Portability: 69.5
Scores
  • Performance: 49.1
  • Build Quality: 41.8
  • Productivity: 53.3
  • Customizability: 55.8
  • Portability: 49.9
Name
AULA F87 Pro
Name
Varmilo Sakura R2
Release year
2023
Release year
2022
Switch Options
-
Switch Options
Silent, Linear, Tactile
Profile
Normal Profile
Profile
Normal Profile
Hot Swappable
 
Hot Swappable
 
Layout Size
80%
Layout Size
100%
Layout Standard
ANSI
Layout Standard
ANSI, ANSI-RU
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Layout Ergonomics
Normal
Knob Support
 
Knob Support
 
Display Support
 
Display Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Mac/Win Support
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
Multi-Media Keys
 
USB-C
 
USB-C
 
USB passthrough
 
USB passthrough
 
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless,
Connection
Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, Wired, Wireless, Wired only
Polling Rate
-
Polling Rate
-
Battery capacity
4000 mAh
Battery capacity
-
Hall Effect Support
 
Hall Effect Support
 
QMK Support
 
QMK Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIA Support
 
VIAL Support
 
VIAL Support
 
N-Key Rollover
 
N-Key Rollover
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Rapid Trigger
 
Mount Style
Gasket Mount
Mount Style
Top Mount
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Screw in Stabilizers
 
Sound Dampening
 
Sound Dampening
 
Backlight
 
Rgb
Backlight
 
Rgb, White
Case Colors
Case Colors
Case Material
PBT, Silicone
Case Material
Plastic
Keycaps Material
PBT
Keycaps Material
PBT
Dimensions
41 x 139 x 365 mm
Dimensions
37 x 139 x 455 mm
Weight
1023g
Weight
2170g
*Something incorrect or missing? Please
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Pros and Trade-offs

Your primary need dictates the choice. If you value a smaller footprint, longer wireless battery life, and a pre-dampened typing experience for a lower cost, the AULA F87 Pro is the pragmatic pick. Opt for the Varmilo Sakura R2 if you require a full-size layout, prioritize a specific aesthetic theme, and are willing to invest in a heavier, premium-built keyboard.

AULA F87 Pro

  • +Compact 80% TKL layout saves considerable desk space.
  • +Features a gasket mount design with an extended silicone pad for a softer typing feel.
  • +Includes five-layered sound-absorbing padding (IXPE, PORON Cotton) for a quieter acoustic profile.
  • +Large 4000mAh battery for extended wireless use.
  • +Comes with accessories like a switch puller and spare switches.

  • Lacks a dedicated numpad and function row, which some users require.
  • No user reviews are available for the Varmilo to compare long-term reliability.
  • The plastic plate may feel less rigid compared to other materials like aluminum.

Varmilo Sakura R2

  • +Full 100% layout includes a numpad and dedicated navigation cluster.
  • +Offers a wide selection of proprietary silent, linear, and tactile switch options.
  • +Features unique, hand-drawn V-Silk PBT keycaps with a Sakura blossom theme.
  • +South-facing RGB backlit hot-swap sockets support 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
  • +Includes a dust cover in the box for protection.

  • Very heavy (2170g) and large (455mm long), making it less portable.
  • The vendor page notes that its proprietary EC V3 switches are not hot-swappable, which limits some customization options.
  • Carries a significantly higher price point than the AULA.

Which Keyboard Is Better for Your Needs?

The AULA F87 Pro is the clear choice for gaming, travel, and modding due to its responsive specs, compact form, and pre-installed sound-dampening features. The Varmilo Sakura R2 wins for office use and content creation where a numpad, silent switches, and a strong visual theme are priorities. For programming, the choice is a tie and depends on the user's preference for desk space versus a full layout.

GamingAULA F87 Pro
  • The AULA F87 Pro's vendor page cites a 3ms response time, which is highlighted for gaming.
  • Its 80% TKL layout frees up more desk space for mouse movement.
  • It is over 1 kg lighter than the Varmilo, which may be preferable for quick repositioning.
OfficeVarmilo Sakura R2
  • The Varmilo Sakura R2's 100% layout includes a dedicated numpad, which is essential for data entry.
  • It offers silent switch options like Kailh Prestige Silent, as listed in its specifications.
  • Its heavier weight (2170g) provides more stability on a desk during long typing sessions.
ProgrammingTie
  • Both keyboards are hot-swappable, allowing customization of switch feel.
  • Both use PBT keycaps for durability against frequent use.
  • The AULA saves desk space, while the Varmilo's full layout may suit those who use a numpad for shortcuts or numbers.
TravelAULA F87 Pro
  • The AULA F87 Pro is significantly more compact (365mm long vs 455mm) and lighter (1023g vs 2170g).
  • It includes a large 4000mAh battery, which the vendor claims is 'ultra-high-capacity' for longer wireless use.
  • Its tri-mode wireless connectivity allows for cable-free use with multiple devices.
ModdingAULA F87 Pro
  • The AULA F87 Pro features a gasket mount design, which is often preferred for its typing feel.
  • It includes five-layered sound-absorbing padding with IXPE and PORON Cotton, as per the vendor description, offering a pre-modded acoustic profile.
  • It comes with a switch puller and spare switches in the box, facilitating immediate modifications.
Content CreationVarmilo Sakura R2
  • The Varmilo's full-size layout provides dedicated media and navigation keys without layers.
  • Its unique V-Silk PBT keycaps with a hand-drawn Sakura design offer a distinct visual aesthetic for streaming or video backgrounds.
  • The vendor lists a web driver for theme customization, which can be useful for creating a cohesive setup look.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


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