Published by Pianistador,
last updated on 04/30/2025
8/10
2025
Best product
Award
2025 marks the release of a new version of the Keylab 88 mk3 master keyboard from Grenoble-based Arturia. The mk2, already appreciated by the majority of users, evolves with this new version, taking a new step forward with top-of-the-range design and functions.
I received the white version of this keyboard, and when I opened the box, it felt great. It really is a beautiful object, taking up the contemporary design of its predecessors. The look is certainly modern, but there’s also something vintage and elegant about it that I really like. Weighing in at around 16 kg (35 lbs), it’s reassuringly sturdy overall. This is the difference with the Essential version, made exclusively of plastic. Most of this keyboard is also solid plastic, but the base is aluminum. The sides are made of wood, with the Arturia logo engraved on them. It’s specified as wood, I’d say this is the first time I’ve had the impression that real wood imitates the look of plastic.
The control interface is the same as the other models (49 and 61 keys), apart from the transposition and octave push-buttons beneath the pitch and modulation wheels. The rendering is uncluttered, the knobs and faders elegant and well finished, with a slight doubt as to the durability of the aluminum-coated main knob to the right of the color LCD screen. There are 12 pads, one row fewer than on the Mk2. They are, however, larger and blend in well with the overall design.
Controls, pads and main features
Pads and transport
Let’s talk about the pads. The quality is there, both in terms of touch (which is very pleasant) and repetitive execution. They are larger and less numerous than on the Keylab mk2. I imagine this is perhaps due to feedback from users who found the previous pads too small. This remains, however, a versatile controller that is not dedicated solely to this use.
The overall feel really gives a high-end feel. The nine rotary encoders and faders are tactile, and the screen lights up when you touch them, really making an impact the first time. This isn’t just a gimmick, as it allows you to view settings without inadvertently changing them. Resistance is good whether for buttons, knobs or sliders.
The transport is well-designed and conveniently placed. I don’t know if a right-handed person would say the same thing, but, as a left-handed person, I like having it on left side of the unit. Above are the chord, arpeggiator, scale and hold buttons, as well as the Save, Quantize, Cancel and Redo buttons so you don’t have to return to the mouse too often.
The screen and Analog Lab
The screen is a nice upgrade compared to the Keylab mk2. It’s 3.5 inches and 480 × 320 pixels. It displays well and correctly what you’re using (name of preset and instrument used). Even when superimposing two synthesizers, both are clearly visible. As soon as you use a knob or fader, the parameters and their values are displayed. There are four buttons above and four below, with various functions depending on the menu.
The Keylab mk3 comes with an Analog Lab license, which is Arturia’s sound bank from its V Collection. The screen will allow you to browse presets in the same way as in the Analog Lab user interface, for example, by selecting your favorites or adding a second instrument as previously mentioned. Here, most objectives (editing or otherwise) will be achieved, but for full emulation, you’ll need to purchase the instrument or the V Collection. Patches can be organized into setlists via performance mode.
Arturia has a privileged relationship with DAWs like Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Ableton Live, FL Studio and Logic Pro; this makes perfect sense with Live and Bitwig, as it’s easier to adjust presets.
The new Fatar TP/110 mechanics put to the test
The KeyLab 88 mk3 features a brand-new Fatar mechanism, the TP/110. This is an improvement on the TP/100 fitted to the mk2. Arturia claims that this mechanism is even smoother than its predecessor, and frankly, for a controller keyboard, that’s a real bonus. Repetition is good, and the weight is just right, neither too heavy nor too light, allowing both expressiveness and digital speed. Key feedback is fast enough for some purely pianistic performances. Tests on different sound banks have been conclusive, and it’s a pleasure to use.
Deciding to take a hammer action for a controller won’t be sought after by everyone. However, this is a versatile keyboard that can satisfy both synth players and pianists.
Connectics and power: what the KeyLab 88 mk3 has to offer
There are no options here for modular equipment. The 88 features an auxiliary pedal input in addition to the traditional three, MIDI input/output, and a USB-C port for data and power. An optional 12V/1A socket is available for those who don’t wish to connect to a computer, but this is an option (no mains cable supplied with the unit).
FAQ
Is the KeyLab 88 mk3 compatible with all DAWs?
It offers extensive integration with Live, Bitwig, Cubase, FL Studio and Logic Pro. For other DAWs, HUI/Mackie mode ensures basic compatibility.
Can it be used without a computer?
Yes, but you’ll need an external 12V/1A power supply not supplied. The screen and functions remain usable in stand-alone mode.
What’s the difference between the Essential series and the KeyLab mk3?
The Mk3 offers better mechanics (TP/110), sturdier materials (aluminum, wood), larger pads and advanced software integration.
Is the KeyLab 88 mk3 suitable for piano playing?
Its Fatar TP/110 mechanics offer a good balance between expressiveness and responsiveness, making it relevant to pianists and producers alike.
How many sound banks are included?
Analog Lab comes with hundreds of sounds. Add Piano V, Mini V, Augmented Strings, Rev Plate-140, The Gentleman (NI), UVI Model D, etc.
Technical specifications of KeyLab 88 mk3
88 weighted keys with Fatar TP/110 mechanics, velocity-sensitive
Aftertouch (mono)
8 velocity-sensitive pads with RGB backlight
9 30-mm faders
9 tactile rotary encoders
1 notched encoder for navigation
Pitch bend and modulation wheel
3.5-inch color LCD display (480 × 320 px)
Modes: Chord Play, Scale, Arpeggiator, Hold
Transport section compatible with all major DAWs
Native integration with Analog Lab V, Ableton Live, Bitwig, Cubase, Logic Pro, FL Studio
Mackie/HUI Control compatible
USB-C port for power and data
MIDI In / Out (DIN)
4 pedal inputs (sustain, expression, and two assignable)
Input for 12 V / 1 A mains power supply (block not supplied)
The Keylab 88 is a controller that combines a well-built keyboard, a very good software package and a large number of sounds. It's easy to use, intuitive, robust and dependable. If you like Arturia's sound banks and want to upgrade from the KeyLab Essential series, this is the keyboard for you. If you don't already have a particular subscription to a specific plug-in provider, it's a viable option, though of course not the only one. However, the price is lower than that of the competition (Native or Novation), and the package comes with a generous collection: Analog Lab Pro, Piano V, Mini V, Augmented Strings, and the Rev PLATE-140 reverb. The package also includes Native's "The Gentleman" piano, Ableton Live Lite, and subscriptions to Melodics and Loopcloud. Around €1,000 ($1000) is the price to pay to get the Keylab 88, and variants are accessible, such as the 61-key model at €549 ($549) and the 49-key model at €449 ($449). Both are available in black or white, but without the heavier keyboard action.
Elegant, original design
Solid and compact
Fluid interface
Tactile buttons and faders
High-quality keyboard with well-crafted mechanics
Good integration of Analog Lab V.
undo/redo button
Customizable
Bitwig integration lacks a few minor features.
Impossible to transfer control to other devices in Bitwig/Live.
