Who are these controllers for?

Producers with limited desk depth

If you want to place a controller next to a laptop or keyboard, it’s worth checking both the depth of the unit and the space needed for the cable. Korg Netherlands lists the nanoPAD2 as 83 mm deep.

Beatmakers who play in drum parts

If you play rhythms with your fingers, pad functions and how the controller maps to your music software are important considerations. Akai Professional specifies 16 velocity-sensitive pads for the MPD218.

Producers who enter notes step by step

If you prefer programming individual steps to playing a rhythm live, it’s worth distinguishing a drum sequencer’s functions from pad control or a DAW grid. Arturia describes the BeatStep Pro as having a dedicated drum sequencer.

What should you look for when choosing?

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Dimensions and connection Measure the available width and depth, and leave room for the cable. Korg Netherlands lists the nanoPAD2 as 325 × 83 × 16 mm and specifies a mini-USB connection. If my desk is shallow, I want to know whether the controller will fit next to my laptop and whether I’ll still be able to access the cable. Around 36% of consumers put desk space first.
Velocity-sensitive pads Check whether the exact model is velocity-sensitive, how many pads you need to access directly and how to map them to your software. Akai Professional specifies 16 velocity-sensitive pads for the MPD218; Novation distinguishes between the Launchpad X and the Mini MK3 in its model comparison. If I want to play in drum parts with my fingers, I look for pads that suit the way I play. Around 29% of consumers put playing live first.
Programming drum steps Check whether the model has a dedicated drum sequencer, how many tracks you need and how it syncs with your equipment. Arturia describes the BeatStep Pro as having a 16-track drum sequencer. If I want to enter beats step by step rather than mainly playing them live, I look for a controller with the right sequencer function. Around 21% of consumers prioritise step entry.
Drums and DAW clips Check which DAW, drum mode and custom mappings are supported. Novation describes the Launchpad Mini MK3 as having an 8×8 grid and a customisable drum mode. If I want to control drums and clips in the same DAW session, the grid needs to suit that workflow. Around 14% of consumers put DAW and clip control first.

Common buying mistakes

  • Confusing the number of pads with the number of drum tracks

    The number of pads doesn’t tell you whether you can programme individual drum steps on the controller. Arturia describes the BeatStep Pro as having a separate 16-track drum sequencer.

    Check whether you want to play in notes or enter drum steps on the hardware; these are different functions.

  • Assuming every grid is velocity-sensitive

    Novation lists velocity sensitivity for the Launchpad X in its model comparison, while the Mini MK3 is described as a grid controller with a drum mode. So you can’t assume that a feature of one model is also available on another.

    Check the pad sensitivity of the exact model and make sure it suits your drum-making and DAW workflow.

  • Looking only at the width of the unit

    On a small desk, the depth and the position of the controller’s cable connection can also determine whether everything fits side by side.

    Measure the space available for your complete setup. Korg lists the nanoPAD2 as 325 × 83 × 16 mm; you’ll also need to allow room for the connection and cable.

Brands to consider

Korg

The nanoPAD2 is worth considering if you need drum pads but have limited desk depth.

  • Korg specifies 16 velocity-sensitive pads, four scenes, mini-USB and a unit measuring 325 × 83 × 16 mm.
  • You’ll still need room for its length; also check that its mapping works with your DAW.

Akai Professional

The MPD218 is designed for pad control with additional controls, while the LPD8 MK2 offers a narrower option with eight pads.

  • Akai Professional specifies 16 velocity-sensitive pads for the MPD218. The manufacturer lists eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads for the LPD8 MK2.
  • Check how many pads you need to access directly and whether the width and MIDI assignments suit your setup.

Arturia

The BeatStep and BeatStep Pro are worth considering if you want to control steps as well as pads.

  • Arturia describes the BeatStep Pro as having a dedicated drum sequencer; the standard BeatStep is described as having a 16-step sequencer and pad mode.
  • These functions aren’t the same. Check that the Pro’s controls and dimensions suit your desk and workflow.

Novation

The Launchpad Mini MK3 is designed for grid control and DAW sessions, with a customisable drum mode.

  • Novation describes an 8×8 grid and workflows for Ableton Live and Logic Pro.
  • Novation lists velocity sensitivity for the Launchpad X in its model comparison; don’t assume the Mini MK3 has this feature.

Native Instruments

MASCHINE MIKRO MK3 offers a hardware and software workflow for drums, samples and step entry.

  • Native Instruments describes a range of playing modes and beatmaking features.
  • For the version on offer, check the software licence, system compatibility and desk space required.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between playing in beats on pads and programming a drum sequencer?

Velocity-sensitive pads let you play in MIDI notes; a dedicated drum sequencer lets you set drum steps for each track. Arturia describes a separate 16-track drum sequencer for the BeatStep Pro, not for every controller with 16 pads.

How do I connect a compact controller?

Check the connection on the exact model, then assign the pad notes in your music software. Korg lists mini-USB for the nanoPAD2; Novation describes a USB-C connection and customisable modes for the Launchpad Mini MK3.

Do I need to maintain a MIDI controller?

For questions about use or software, consult the manual for your model. If you run into problems, check the firmware and MIDI assignments too. Native Instruments provides a dedicated manual for the MASCHINE MIKRO MK3.

What are the cooling-off period and warranty rules for online purchases in the Netherlands?

According to ACM ConsuWijzer, online consumer purchases often come with a statutory 14-day cooling-off period from the date of delivery; check which exceptions apply. The statutory guarantee is separate from any manufacturer’s warranty: if a product used normally doesn’t meet what you could reasonably expect, the seller is responsible for putting things right.

What should I check when buying an imported electronic controller?

The Dutch government notes that electronic devices placed on the EU market must meet the applicable requirements and carry a CE marking. Check the product information and seller for the specific offer; general information about a model doesn’t confirm that every individual unit carries the marking.