Akai MPK261 vs Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3
| Akai MPK261 | Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | MPK261 comes equipped with 61 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed | 88-note velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keyboard |
| Aftertouch | yes (channel aftertouch) | — |
| Sounds / presets | — | 2000 |
| Sequencer | an arpeggiator, with adjustable resolution, range, and patterns; MPC Note Repeat | Multi-mode arpeggiator |
| Pads / faders | 16 pads; velocity- and pressure-sensitive; 4 banks; 8 faders (3 banks); 8 360-degree encoders (3 banks); 8 switches (LED-backlit, 3 banks) | 8 touch & pressure-sensitive pads; 9 x 30mm faders; 9 rotary encoders |
| Weight | 6.84 kg | 8.2 kg |
| Released | 2014 | 2024 |
| Release month | 2 | 2 |
| Status | current | current |
| Keys | 61 | 88 |
Which one should you buy?
- Choose the Akai MPK261 if lighter to carry to gigs and lessons (6.84 kg vs 8.2 kg).
Full spec sheets: Akai MPK261 · Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3. Rows with a highlighted background differ.