Best Midi Keyboards · head-to-head
KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 vs Launchkey 49 MK4
A sourced, side-by-side spec comparison. Launchkey 49 MK4 is cheaper at $279.99. Every spec and price links to its source.
Side by side
| KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 | Launchkey 49 MK4 | |
|---|---|---|
| US price | $299 (Arturia store MSRP (US$299)) | $279.99 (Current Novation US store price (launch MSRP was $249.99)) |
| Brand | Arturia | Novation |
| Released | 2023-05 | 2024-08 |
| keys | 49 | 49 |
| key type | synth | semi_weighted |
| drum pads | 8 | 16 |
| knobs | 9 | 8 |
| faders | 9 | 9 |
| aftertouch | false | false |
| connection | usb_midi_din | usb_midi_din |
| bundled software | Analog Lab Pro, Ableton Live Lite, NI Komplete Select, UVI Model D, Loopcloud 2-month | Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, GForce Oberheim SEM, Klevgrand plugins, NI Komplete Select, Melodics |
| release | 2023 | 2024 |
Sources — KeyLab Essential 49 mk3: arturia.com (verified 2026-06-19). Launchkey 49 MK4: us.novationmusic.com (verified 2026-06-19).