Akai MPK249 vs Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3
| Akai MPK249 | Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | 49 semi-weighted, full-size keys with premium piano-style keybed; velocity-sensitive with aftertouch | 88-note fully-weighted Fatar TP/110 keybed with aftertouch |
| Aftertouch | yes | Yes (Fatar TP/110 hammer-action keybed with aftertouch); channel/poly type unspecified |
| Sounds / presets | 0 | 2000 |
| Sequencer | — | No; multi-mode arpeggiator only |
| Bluetooth | No | — |
| USB audio | No | — |
| Pads / faders | 16 | 12 touch & pressure-sensitive pads; 9 x 50mm faders; 9 360° rotary encoders; 1 clickable encoder |
| Weight | 5.72 kg | 15.7 kg |
| Released | 2014 | 2025 |
| Release month | 1 | 3 |
| USB to host | yes | — |
| Status | current | current |
| Keys | 49 | 88 |
| Pedals | 1/4" TRS expression pedal input, 1/4" TS sustain pedal or footswitch input | — |
Which one should you buy?
- Choose the Akai MPK249 if lighter to carry to gigs and lessons (5.72 kg vs 15.7 kg).
- Choose the Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3 if you want more variety of built-in voices (0 vs 2000).
Full spec sheets: Akai MPK249 · Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3. Rows with a highlighted background differ.