Arturia MiniLab 3 Universal MIDI Controller
- 25 slim keys with velocity synth action
- 2 banks of 8 RGB pads, pressure sensitive
- 8 rotary encoders plus a clickable browse knob
- 2 touch strips for pitch bend and modulation
- Arpeggiator, mini display and MIDI out
- Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, UVI Model D
- 5 year limited warranty
Last refreshed Oct 2, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A compact controller with keys, pads, encoders and a display plus a software starter suite. Its slim keys suit sketching, not full piano technique.
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ASIN: B0BGMNKCNTModel: MiniLab 3Category: MIDI Controllers
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Overview
A first-time producer gets slim keys, backlit pads and a row of encoders in one USB device that doubles as a browser for the bundled instruments. The mini display and clickable knob show parameter names, and touch strips replace the usual wheels.
The software suite means a beginner has sounds ready after installing, and the display reduces trips to the screen. The keys are slim and the body is plastic, so it favors small desks over stage use.
Who it's for
Bedroom producers and students learning a DAW get a lot of controls in a laptop-sized body. Players wanting more keys, or physical pitch wheels, will want a larger model.
Pros and cons
- Pads, encoders, keys and display together
- Bundled software suite
- Backlit RGB pads
- Five year limited warranty
- Slim keys, not full size
- Touch strips instead of wheels
Performance notes
Keys and pads respond to velocity, and pads also read pressure for added expression. Encoders and a clickable knob map to plugin parameters, and the display shows what is being changed.
Where it stands among midi controllers
- #1 most-searched brand and model of the 46 midi controllers lines we track (by search demand, not sales).
From the specs of the 15 midi controllers we list; not a test result.
Specifications
| Brand | Arturia |
|---|---|
| Model | MiniLab 3 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 8.6 x 14 x 2.1 inches (D x W x H) |
| Weight | 3.1 pounds |
| Construction & materials | |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity Technology | USB, MIDI out |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 5 year limited |
| Supported Software | Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro, UVI Model D |
| Other details | |
| Number of Keys | 25 |
| Number of pads | 2 banks of 8 |
| Key type | Slim keys, synth action with velocity |
| Additional Features | Arpeggiator, mini display, clickable browsing knob |
| Number of encoders | 8 |
| Platform | Mac, Windows 10 |
| Touch strips | 2 |
Closest rivals on specs
Akai Professional MPK Mini IV 25-Key USB-C MIDI Keyboard Controller- Item Weight 3.1 vs 2.2 pounds (+41%)
Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller- Item Weight 3.1 vs 1.98 pounds (+57%)
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up the Arturia MiniLab 3 with software?
The listing names the software suite, Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Intro and UVI Model D, for Mac and Windows 10. It gives no installation steps.
Does the MiniLab 3 have pitch and mod wheels?
It has two capacitive touch sensors for pitch bend and modulation instead of wheels.
Is a USB cable listed in the included items?
The included components list only the software suite, so confirm a cable with the seller.