Arturia’s MiniLab series has been a favourite among producers and musicians who need a portable yet versatile MIDI controller. The MiniLab 3 builds on that legacy with a refreshed design, deeper DAW integration, and a generous software bundle. With 25 velocity-sensitive keys, eight pads, rotary encoders, faders, and transport controls, it packs a surprising amount of functionality into a small, affordable package. But does it live up to its reputation as one of the best compact MIDI controllers around? Let’s find out.
25 velocity-sensitive slim keys
8 RGB performance pads
8 endless rotary encoders + 4 faders
Pitch bend and modulation touch strips
Dedicated transport controls for DAW integration
USB-C powered (plug-and-play)
MIDI out via 3.5 mm jack
Bundled software: Analog Lab Intro, Ableton Live Lite, UVI Model D, Native Instruments plug-ins
The MiniLab 3 is compact, lightweight, and designed with portability in mind. Its plastic construction keeps it affordable, but it still feels sturdy enough for studio and travel use. The addition of transport controls and faders is a welcome update over previous models, giving it more hands-on flexibility for DAW control.
The 25 slim keys are velocity-sensitive and responsive, offering a decent playing feel for a compact controller. While not a replacement for a full-size keyboard, they’re more than adequate for sketching ideas, basslines, or melodies. The 8 RGB pads are responsive and work well for finger drumming, triggering samples, or launching clips in Ableton, though their smaller size may not suit heavy pad users.
One of the MiniLab 3’s strengths is its wealth of assignable controls. With 8 endless encoders, 4 faders, and dedicated transport buttons, you can quickly map parameters to your DAW or software instruments. The pitch and mod touch strips are less tactile than traditional wheels, but they save space and work well for portable setups.
Arturia has put a big emphasis on DAW integration. The MiniLab 3 offers pre-mapped control schemes for popular DAWs like Ableton, FL Studio, Logic, and Reason, making setup easy. The included software bundle is generous: Analog Lab Intro gives you access to 500+ Arturia sounds, while Ableton Live Lite and other plug-ins make it a ready-to-go production kit.
At just under 1.5 kg, the MiniLab 3 is light and easy to carry. USB-C bus power means no external supply is needed, making it ideal for mobile producers working with laptops. The addition of a MIDI out jack also makes it useful for controlling external gear, not just software.
At around £90–£110, the MiniLab 3 offers excellent value. Few controllers in this price range pack in as many features, controls, and software extras. For beginners, it’s a fantastic entry point, and for experienced producers, it’s a handy secondary controller for travel or tight setups.
Yes, it’s affordable, easy to set up, and comes with great software to get started right away.
It needs to connect to a computer, iPad, or external MIDI gear. It doesn’t produce sound on its own.
The MPK Mini has a joystick for pitch/mod and an arpeggiator, while the MiniLab 3 has faders, transport controls, and tighter DAW integration.
If you’re looking for a compact, affordable MIDI controller that doesn’t skimp on features, the Arturia MiniLab 3 is a top choice. With plenty of hands-on controls, strong DAW integration, and a generous software bundle, it’s one of the best entry-level MIDI controllers available today.
Looking for a compact, powerful MIDI controller for your home studio or on the go?
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