IMO the Microfreak is not too tiny. The spacing between the knobs is okay. The keyboard is quite reactive for interesting modulations and very fast.
But there is a big difference between using sliders and knobs. From my experience with different synths I would say that sliders work much better for me in a live situation. It’s one glance only and I know where I am and where to go, because sliders give me a better indication of the actual setting. Knobs are only round with a tiny tip or mark to give away their position. But this would not justify the cost of an Easel for me.
BTW … try the Arturia Easel with a midi-controller having enough faders. That could at least give a certain feeling, how it works. There are also touchplate keyboards available, resembling the Easel keyboard.