Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 vs Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk3
| Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 | Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | 49 & 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard with hybrid synth-piano feel | 61 semi-weighted keys; An industry-leading keybed from Fatar with polyphonic aftertouch as standard |
| Aftertouch | — | Polyphonic aftertouch as standard (type stated explicitly) |
| Sounds / presets | 2000 | — |
| Sequencer | — | Play Assist tools: arpeggiator, note repeat, scale and chord mode |
| Bluetooth | No | — |
| USB audio | No | — |
| Pads / faders | 8 touch & pressure-sensitive pads; 9 x 30mm faders | no (8 touch-sensitive control knobs, 4-directional push encoder) |
| Weight | 2.76 kg | 6 kg |
| Released | 2019 | — |
| Status | current | current |
| Keys | 61 | 61 |
| Display | 2.5" LCD | — |
Which one should you buy?
- Choose the Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 if budget is the priority — it is about $500 cheaper (approx.).
- Choose the Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 if lighter to carry to gigs and lessons (2.76 kg vs 6 kg).
Full spec sheets: Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 · Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 Mk3. Rows with a highlighted background differ.