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Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller | USB, 64 RGB Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads, 4-Track Sequencer, MIDI I/O, Ableton Live Lite
Novation

Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller

Bottom line: The Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller: 64 RGB pads read both velocity and pressure for real dynamics and aftertouch; main trade-off: pads mirror session colors in Ableton; other DAWs get less visual feedback.

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By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

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Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ 64 RGB pads read both velocity and pressure for real dynamics and aftertouch
  • ✓ Deepest Ableton Live integration: clip, scene, mixer, device and transport control
  • ✓ Standalone 4-track 32-step sequencer with 8-note polyphony and pattern chaining
  • ✓ Probability and mutation reshape sequenced patterns live without stopping playback
  • ✓ MIDI In, Out and Out 2/Thru drive an all-hardware rig alongside your DAW

Cons

  • ✗ Pads mirror session colors in Ableton; other DAWs get less visual feedback
  • ✗ Sequencer is capped at four tracks and 32 steps per pattern
  • ✗ Grid-only layout: no faders, knobs or encoders for hands-on mixing
  • ✗ Bundled Ableton Live Lite is limited; a full Live license costs extra

Manufacturer description

Novation's Launchpad Pro MK3 is the grid controller built for producers who want to leave the mouse behind. Its 64 RGB pads are both velocity- and pressure-sensitive, so dynamics and aftertouch translate directly into Ableton Live or Logic Pro, and the pad colors mirror your session window back at you. The Ableton integration is Novation's deepest yet: launch clips and scenes, reach mixer, device and transport controls, and quantize, duplicate or double from the grid, with one-click Capture MIDI to rescue an idea you already played. The onboard four-track, 32-step sequencer runs standalone…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the audio & midi category. Novation's audio & midi lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for audio & midi of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Launchpad Pro MK3 work without a computer?

Yes. The onboard four-track, 32-step sequencer runs standalone, and the MIDI In, Out and Out 2/Thru ports let you drive outboard hardware without a DAW connected.

Are the pads pressure sensitive or just velocity sensitive?

Both. The 64 large RGB pads respond to velocity and to pressure, so you get aftertouch expression as well as dynamic hit response.

Does it only work with Ableton Live?

No. Ableton Live integration is the deepest, and pad colors match the Live session window, but it also reflects Logic Pro sessions and Custom Modes send MIDI to any compatible software or hardware.

What software comes in the box?

Ableton Live Lite is included. Check the current product listing for the full bundle, since Novation periodically updates the included software offers.

Key Features

  • Our Deepest Ableton Live Integration – Quickly launch clips and scenes, access mixer, device, and transport controls, and quantize, duplicate and double, all without touching your mouse. Capture MIDI makes sure you never lose an idea
  • Dynamic and Expressive Playing – Large RGB velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads give you a perfect reflection of your Ableton Live or Logic Pro session, matching colors from the session window to your Launchpad Pro
  • Powerful Four-track, 32-step Sequencer – Create tracks with Launchpad Pro's sequencer, featuring eight-note polyphony, pattern chaining and scenes to create and trigger longer sequences. Transform your patterns on the fly with probability/mutation
  • Dynamic Note & Scale Modes – Effortlessly play in-key basslines, melodies, chords and leads. Launchpad Pro even knows when you’re drumming and shows your drum rack on the grid. Easily explore, build, and play complex chords straight from the grid
  • Control MIDI-compatible Hardware, Software, Or Both – Tailor Launchpad Pro to your setup. Use Custom Modes to send MIDI commands to software/hardware simultaneously. Hook Launchpad Pro up to an all-hardware rig using MIDI In, Out and Out 2/Thru ports

Full Specifications

BrandNovation
ColorBlack
PlatformMac, Windows 10, Windows 7
InstrumentSynthesizer
Model NameLaunchpad X
Model Year2022
Unit Count1 Count
ConnectivityUSB
Control TypeGrid Controller
Model NumberAMS-LAUNCHPAD-Pro-MK3
Material TypePlastic
Noise ControlNone
Product StyleLaunchpad Pro [MK3]
Connector TypeMIDI 3.5mm, USB-C
Control MethodTouch
Instrument KeyAny
Item Type NameDJ Controller
Number of Keys64
Number of Items1
Special FeatureSequencer
Full listing titleNovation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller | USB, 64 RGB Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads, 4-Track Sequencer, MIDI I/O, Ableton Live Lite

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Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller | USB, 64 RGB Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads, 4-Track Sequencer, MIDI I/O, Ableton Live Lite is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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Novation Launchpad Pro MK3 MIDI USB Grid Controller | USB, 64 RGB Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads, 4-Track Sequencer, MIDI I/O, Ableton Live Lite
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