Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (2)
$399.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$399.00
Amazon
4.4 (71)
$399.00 New
$332.82 Used (Like New)
Reverb
$357.57 New
$350.86 Used
B&H
5.0 (1)
$399.00
Thomann
4.9 (18)
$349.00
Gear4Music
£330.50

Average Price: $385

Standard/Professional

$200

$501+

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Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII MIDI Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock your musical potential with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII MIDI Controller, a powerhouse of creative expression and intuitive design. This full-sized controller combines the natural playability of an 88-key hybrid synth-piano keybed with seamless integration for your digital audio workstation (DAW), making it an indispensable tool for both studio and stage environments.

Packed with features to inspire and streamline your workflow, the KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII boasts velocity-sensitive keys that respond with a piano-like touch, perfect for expressive performances or dynamic compositions. Its deep DAW integration means you can easily map controls to your favorite software, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and FL Studio, thanks to custom scripts that enhance your creative flow without diving through complex menus.

The intuitive interface includes a 2.5" LCD display, pitch and modulation wheels, and a full array of faders, encoders, and pads, offering real-time feedback and control over parameters. The built-in Scale, Chord, and Arpeggiator modes open up new dimensions of musical exploration, allowing you to experiment with melodies and harmonies effortlessly.

Beyond its hardware capabilities, the KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII comes bundled with Arturia's Analog Lab software, offering over 2,000 presets from the iconic V Collection, as well as premium virtual instruments like the UVI Model D and NI The Gentleman Piano. Whether you're a seasoned producer or an aspiring musician, this MIDI controller is your gateway to limitless creativity.

Key Features:

  • 88 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys with hybrid synth-piano feel
  • Seamless DAW integration with pre-mapped controls for popular software
  • Eight velocity and pressure-sensitive RGB pads
  • Nine rotary encoders and nine 30mm faders
  • Built-in Scale, Chord, and Arpeggiator modes
  • 2.5" LCD display for real-time parameter feedback
  • USB-C connectivity with MIDI output
  • Includes Arturia Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, UVI Model D, and NI The Gentleman Piano software
  • Comes with a USB-C cable and a limited 2-year manufacturer warranty

Product specs

Type Keyboard Controller
Number of Keys 88
Type of Keys Semi-weighted, Waterfall Keybed
Velocity Sensitive Yes
Pads 8 x RGB-backlit Velocity/Pressure-sensitve Pads
Other Controllers Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
Encoders/Pots 1 x Clickable Encoder, 9 x Rotary Knobs
Faders 9 x 30mm Faders
Dedicated Transport Control 6 x Transport Switches
Presets 2000 Sounds
Pedal Inputs 1 x 1/4" (sustain)
MIDI I/O Out/USB
USB 1 x USB-C
Computer Connectivity USB
Features 2.5" Twin-line LCD Screen, Multi-mode Arpeggiator, Chord/Scale Modes, Hold Function, Semitone Transpose
Software Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D
Format VST, AAX, AU, NKS
Hardware Requirements - Mac 4GB RAM, 4-core 3.4GHz or Apple Silicon CPU, OpenGL 2.0 Compatible GPU
Hardware Requirements - PC 4GB RAM, 4-core 3.4GHz CPU, OpenGL 2.0 Compatible GPU
OS Requirements - Mac MacOS 11.0 or later
OS Requirements - PC Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
Power Supply USB Powered
Height 2.48"
Width 49.59"
Depth 10.26"
Weight 18.7 lbs

FAQs

Does the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII have fully weighted keys?

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII features a semi-weighted, waterfall keybed, providing a responsive playing experience with a lighter touch compared to fully weighted keys.

What software comes bundled with the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII?

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII includes Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano Model D software, providing a comprehensive suite for music production and sound design.

How does the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII connect to a computer?

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII connects to a computer via USB-C, offering seamless integration with your digital audio workstation (DAW).

Is the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII compatible with all major DAWs?

Yes, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII is compatible with all major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio, allowing for versatile music production.

What are the main features of the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII's control interface?

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII features 8 RGB-backlit velocity/pressure-sensitive pads, 9 rotary knobs, 9 faders, pitchbend and mod wheels, and a 2.5" twin-line LCD screen for intuitive control.

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Arturia Keylab Essential 88 MK3 is a BARGAIN!

Video thumbnail for Arturia Keylab Essential 88 MK3 is a BARGAIN! by Sanjay C

Arturia Keylab Essential 88 MK3 is a BARGAIN!

Sanjay C

Sanjay C

Reviews

PROS

  • Solid build with semi-weighted keys ideal for both piano and synth play

  • Excellent DAW integration, particularly with FL Studio and Arturia software

  • Lightweight design enhances portability without compromising durability

  • Advanced control over Arturia virtual instruments like Analog Lab Pro

  • USB-C connectivity for modern setups and power

  • Includes valuable software package with Analog Lab Pro

  • Great keybed feel praised by both beginners and professional pianists

  • Affordable yet feels more expensive due to quality construction

  • Easy setup with straightforward plug-and-play functionality

  • Provides essential tools for music producers without heavy hammer action

CONS

  • Lacks semi-tone transpose feature for splits

  • Buttons do not send notes or program changes

  • Setup can be complex, particularly DAW integration

  • No aftertouch capability

  • Requires additional steps for full Analog Lab functionality integration

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII MIDI Controller.

Build quality

  • Owners report the keyboard action feels plasticky and cheap, with significant key travel and springiness potentially leading to discomfort over extended play.

    Source

User experience

  • The KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII is criticized for dropping notes during light play, even with adjusted velocity curves.

    Source
  • The KeyLab MkIII has been described as having a premium Fatar feel, particularly in the 49 and 61 key models, which contrasts with the spongier keys of the MkII.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users mention the need for the Midi Control Center App to adjust velocity curves, which is seen as inconvenient given the onboard screen.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Fatar TP/9 action is often mentioned as a superior alternative for semi-weighted keys, with some users recommending Native Instruments' S-series for better keybeds.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The controller integrates out of the box with multiple DAWs like FL Studio and Bitwig, enhancing its utility for various music production setups.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • While the faders and rotary knobs are found to be decent, the inability to adjust settings directly on the controller itself is a noted drawback.

    Source
  • The KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII is reportedly heavy, making it less convenient for frequent travel or gigging situations.

    Source
  • The KeyLab series includes drum pads, appealing to users interested in experimenting with rhythm and beat-making alongside keyboard play.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • In India, an official Arturia promotion offers the V Collection 11 Pro for free with the purchase, significantly increasing the value proposition.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Travis Dykes uses Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII MIDI Controller

Travis Dykes

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...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "I Built My DREAM Home Office & Music Studio," by Travis Dykes, the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII MIDI Controller is visibly placed on a shelf on his workdesk at the 6:50 mark.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MkIII MIDI Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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ajpianoman

ajpianoman

Gear IQ 87

ajpianoman

ajpianoman

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