Start by measuring the space on your desk, then decide whether you mainly want to play notes, make beats as well or control functions in your DAW. A compact 25-key model can handle melodies and short parts; 32 mini keys give you more range at your fingertips, while pads and controls add extra functionality within easy reach. A standard MIDI controller doesn’t make sound on its own: you’ll also need a sound source and an audio output set up.
You want to play ideas straight into your music software, but don’t have room for a full-size keyboard or floor stand. Compare the width and depth with the space you have available: Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm.
You want to enter drums or patterns as well as melodies, and are looking for keys and pads on the same device. Novation lists 16 pads on the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; Akai Professional lists 8 pads on the MPK Mini IV.
You want to reach for the mouse less often while writing. Novation has designed the FLkey Mini 25 MK2 specifically for FL Studio; check that each model’s controls work with the functions you use in your DAW.
First, measure the space available on your desk and take the connections into account. Then decide whether pads and DAW controls, or more keys for writing melodies, matter more to the way you work.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who might prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Desk space | Compare the width and depth of the exact model with the space available, and leave room for the connection. | If desk space is limited, you’ll want to know whether the unit will fit with a cable plugged in. Around 36% of consumers put desk space first. |
| Entering beats | Check the number of pads and which pad functions are available in your DAW. | If you want to enter melodies and drum patterns with one controller, pads alongside the keys are useful. Around 29% of consumers prioritise entering beats. |
| DAW control | Check whether the exact model supports the functions you use in your music software. | If you want to control functions directly from the keyboard while writing, check how it integrates with your DAW. Around 21% of consumers prioritise DAW control. |
| Playing range at your fingertips | Compare the number of keys with the melodies and chords you want to play at the same time. | If you want to play parts without constantly switching octaves, having more keys may matter more than pad controls. Around 14% of consumers prioritise playing range. |
MIDI sends control data and doesn’t contain audio. Without a connected or selected sound source, you won’t hear the notes you play through the controller.
Before buying, check what you’ll use to hear the notes and where the audio will play.
A model with fewer keys can still be too deep for your desk. For example, the listed dimensions of the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and MiniLab 3 differ in depth.
Compare the width and depth of the exact model with your available workspace, and allow room for the connection.
Akai documents differences between the MPK Mini MK3 and MPK Mini IV, including their connections and controls.
Check the full model name and generation before choosing a version.
The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 combines mini keys with pads and controls; the FLkey Mini 25 MK2 is designed for FL Studio.
The MiniLab 3 combines keys and controls with a connection for external MIDI equipment.
The MPK Mini IV combines mini keys, pads and physical wheels for entering melodies and beats.
The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is a keys-first option for those who value a wider playing range at their fingertips more than extra pad controls.
These product picks are 61-key keyboards for anyone who wants a wider playing range at their fingertips when writing melodies. They don’t have the compact mini-key layout of the MIDI controllers discussed here, so you’ll need enough space for them.
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Its 61 keys offer a wider playing range at your fingertips than a mini-key controller. Bear in mind that its larger, piano-style layout may take up more room on a small workspace.
Weighted keyboard; 300 sounds and 300 rhythms; LCD; USB-MIDI; built-in speakers and headphone socket.
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The 61 keys give you room to play a melody with a wider range at your fingertips, but this isn’t a compact mini-key layout.
USB-MIDI; recording function; speakers; metronome and music stand.
A standard MIDI controller sends control data, not audio. Select a software instrument or another sound source, then choose the audio output you want in your music software.
First, check the USB connection and whether your computer recognises the device. Arturia also recommends trying a different cable and connecting directly without a hub if you have connection problems. Then check your DAW’s MIDI settings.
ACM ConsuWijzer explains that products bought online are subject to a statutory 14-day cooling-off period, which ends 14 days after delivery. Check the applicable terms for trying out and returning products.
According to the Dutch government, if there’s a problem with a product, you should contact the seller to resolve it, not just the manufacturer. An additional manufacturer’s or seller’s guarantee does not replace your statutory rights.
No. According to the European Commission, a CE marking is the manufacturer’s declaration that the product meets the applicable EU requirements; there is no central EU body that issues a general CE certificate. You’ll need to check the product documentation to see which rules apply to a specific model and whether it meets them.
