Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3 vs Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3
| Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3 | Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | 88-note fully-weighted Fatar TP/110 keybed with aftertouch | 88-note velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keyboard |
| Aftertouch | Yes (Fatar TP/110 hammer-action keybed with aftertouch); channel/poly type unspecified | — |
| Sounds / presets | 2000 | 2000 |
| Sequencer | No; multi-mode arpeggiator only | Multi-mode arpeggiator |
| Pads / faders | 12 touch & pressure-sensitive pads; 9 x 50mm faders; 9 360° rotary encoders; 1 clickable encoder | 8 touch & pressure-sensitive pads; 9 x 30mm faders; 9 rotary encoders |
| Weight | 15.7 kg | 8.2 kg |
| Released | 2025 | 2024 |
| Release month | 3 | 2 |
| Status | current | current |
| Keys | 88 | 88 |
Which one should you buy?
- Choose the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 if budget is the priority — it is about $850 cheaper (approx.).
- Choose the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 if lighter to carry to gigs and lessons (15.7 kg vs 8.2 kg).
Full spec sheets: Arturia KeyLab 88 mk3 · Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 mk3. Rows with a highlighted background differ.