Akai MPK261 vs Arturia KeyStep 37 mk2
| Akai MPK261 | Arturia KeyStep 37 mk2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | MPK261 comes equipped with 61 semi-weighted, full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed | 37-note Slimkey keyboard with velocity & aftertouch |
| Aftertouch | yes (channel aftertouch) | yes (channel aftertouch) |
| Sounds / presets | — | 500 |
| Sequencer | an arpeggiator, with adjustable resolution, range, and patterns; MPC Note Repeat | Polyphonic step sequencer: up to 64 steps, 8-voice polyphony; 16-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) | No pads; 4 encoders and 2 touch strips |
| Weight | 6.84 kg | 1.09 kg |
| Released | 2014 | 2026 |
| Release month | 2 | 2 |
| Status | current | current |
| Keys | 61 | 37 |
Which one should you buy?
- Choose the Arturia KeyStep 37 mk2 if lighter to carry to gigs and lessons (6.84 kg vs 1.09 kg).
Full spec sheets: Akai MPK261 · Arturia KeyStep 37 mk2. Rows with a highlighted background differ.