The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a 25 key MIDI keyboard controller made for small desks and small budgets. It has more controls than most keyboards of its size, plus a MIDI output that lets it play hardware synths. This guide covers what it offers, what you connect and who should buy it.
Quick answer
Buy the Arturia MiniLab 3 if you make music at a desk or on the move and want keys, pads, knobs and sliders in one slim unit. If you need full size keys or more than two octaves, look at a larger keyboard instead.
Specifications
| Keys | 25 slim keys, velocity sensitive |
| Pads | 2 banks of 8 (16 in total), velocity and pressure sensitive, RGB backlit |
| Encoders | 8 rotary |
| Sliders | 4 |
| Display | Mini display with clickable browsing knob |
| MIDI output | 5 pin DIN |
| Pedal input | Sustain, expression or footswitch |
| Connection | USB-C, for computer and iPad |
| DAW control | MCU protocol transport, 1 DAW preset for major DAWs |
| Dimensions | 356 x 219 x 54 mm |
| Weight | 1 kg |
Specs are taken from the product page on this store.
What is included
- Analog Lab Intro
- Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select
- Loopcloud, 2 month subscription
- Ableton Live Lite
- Melodics trial
- MIDI Control Center
The software bundle means you can start making music without buying anything else.
What you connect
- Computer or iPad: one USB-C cable.
- Hardware synth: the 5 pin DIN MIDI output plays an external instrument with no audio interface in between.
- Pedal: sustain, expression or footswitch through the control input.
Who it suits
- Beginners who want a complete starter setup with software included.
- Producers with a small desk who still want pads, knobs and sliders.
- Anyone who wants to play a hardware synth from the same controller.
Common questions
Does it work with an iPad?
Yes. It connects over USB-C to a computer or an iPad.
Can it control my DAW?
Yes. It uses the MCU protocol for transport control and has a DAW preset for the major DAWs.
Is it genuine India stock with warranty?
Pro Audio Brands lists it with manufacturer warranty. See the product page for the current price and availability.