Arturia MiniLab 3 review

The MiniLab 3 is a small controller that does not give up mixing controls. Arturia lists 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys, eight RGB pads that respond to velocity and pressure, eight multi-function encoders and four faders, which is more hands-on control than most 25-key models. A mini display and a clickable browser knob let you find presets in Analog Lab and your DAW, and Arturia says it comes pre-mapped for most DAWs. Hold and Chord modes and a tempo-synced arpeggiator help beginners get ideas down. The USB-C port is bus-powered and class-compliant, there is a control input for a sustain, footswitch or expression pedal, and the 5-pin MIDI port can act as out or thru. The bundle mirrors the KeyLab line, with Analog Lab sounds, a Steinway grand, a Komplete 15 Select choice, Loopcloud and Melodics. Pitch and mod use touch strips rather than wheels. We compared documented features and published prices; we did not test it.

Who it is for

Beginners who want a small controller that still has faders and a strong software bundle.

Price

$149 at Arturia when checked.

ready to get creative right out the box. 149$ Buy Now
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 10, 2026.

Key features

• 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys
• Eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB pads
• Eight multi-function encoders and four faders
• Mini display with clickable browser knob
• USB-C class-compliant, control pedal input and 5-pin MIDI out or thru

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Four faders, which the MPK Mini IV lacks
• Strength: Same Analog Lab, Steinway piano and Komplete 15 Select options as the KeyLab line
• Strength: Class-compliant, so no driver is needed
• Weakness: Pitch and mod are touch strips, not wheels
• Weakness: Only 25 keys
• Weakness: Costs $50 more than the MPK Mini IV

Key facts

• Keys: 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys
• Pads: 8, velocity and pressure
• Controls: 8 encoders, 4 faders
• Connections: USB-C, 5-pin MIDI out, control input
• Expression: Pitch bend and mod touch strips

Where it ranks

Arturia MiniLab 3 is No. 5 in our Best Midi Keyboards verdict.