Arturia MiniLab 37: What's New and Is It Worth It?

Arturia just stretched its most popular controller. The MiniLab 37 keeps the compact MiniLab formula but adds twelve more keys, turning a 25-note pad into a proper two-handed instrument. It lands at $199.

The MiniLab line has long been a default first controller for new producers. This release answers the one complaint people kept raising: not enough keys. For more options, see our best MIDI keyboards guide.

What's new in the MiniLab 37?

The headline change is the keybed. The MiniLab 37 ships with 37 velocity-sensitive slim keys, up from the 25 keys on the previous MiniLab. That extra range matters more than it sounds.

According to Arturia, the larger keybed enables fuller chords, wider melodies, and genuine two-handed playing while keeping a compact footprint. For anyone who has tried to play a left-hand bassline and a right-hand lead on 25 keys, this is the upgrade that counts.

The control surface is generous for the size:

• 16 RGB pads in two banks, velocity- and pressure-sensitive
• 8 rotary encoders, assignable for plugins and mixing
• 4 faders for levels, macros, or DAW control
• 2 capacitive touch strips for pitch bend and modulation
• A mini display with a clickable browser knob for preset navigation

Smart performance features carry over and stay strong. There is a built-in arpeggiator that syncs to your project tempo, a Chord mode for one-finger harmonies, a Hold function, and quick transpose.

What software comes with it?

This is where the MiniLab line traditionally over-delivers, and the 37 continues that. The bundle is built to take a beginner from unboxing to finished track.

It includes Analog Lab Intro with hundreds of synth and keyboard presets, plus Ableton Live Lite as a starter DAW. Arturia also bundles a Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select collection, a Loopcloud subscription with sample credits, and a set of tailored Melodics lessons.

If you want more sounds and loops beyond the bundle, Loopcloud and Loopmasters are easy ways to expand your library.

How does it connect?

Connectivity is broad for an entry-level board. The MiniLab 37 uses USB-C and is bus-powered and class-compliant, so it works without drivers on most systems.

It also adds a 5-pin DIN MIDI output for hardware synths and a control input for a sustain or expression pedal. Arturia lists deep integration with Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, Bitwig, Pro Tools, Studio One, Reason, and more, plus NKS compatibility for Native Instruments users.

How much does the MiniLab 37 cost?

The MiniLab 37 is priced at $199. Arturia notes it is built with at least 50% recycled plastic, ships in recyclable packaging, and carries a five-year warranty.

You can check current pricing and bundles at Plugin Boutique.

Is the MiniLab 37 worth it?

For its target buyer, yes. If you found the 25-key MiniLab cramped, the 37 fixes the single biggest limitation without inflating the size or price much. The extra keys plus 16 pads make it a stronger fit for beat-making and chord work alike.

It is less compelling if you already own a 49- or 61-key controller, or if you need full-size keys and aftertouch. Slim keys are a feature, not a flaw, but they are a personal preference.

As a first controller, or a compact second board for the desk or the road, the MiniLab 37 is an easy recommendation. Pair it with one of our best DAWs for beginners and you have a complete starting setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many keys does the MiniLab 37 have?

The MiniLab 37 has 37 velocity-sensitive slim keys, up from 25 on the previous MiniLab.

Does the MiniLab 37 have pads?

Yes. It has 16 RGB pads in two banks of eight, and they are both velocity- and pressure-sensitive.

What software is included with the MiniLab 37?

Arturia bundles Analog Lab Intro, Ableton Live Lite, a Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select collection, a Loopcloud subscription, and Melodics lessons.

How much does the MiniLab 37 cost?

The MiniLab 37 is priced at $199 and ships with a five-year warranty.