Who is a compact MIDI keyboard for?

Beatmaker with limited desk space

Makes rhythms and short bass or chord parts alongside a laptop. Dimensions, pads and controls in your DAW are key considerations; Novation and Arturia publish the dimensions and pad layouts of their compact models.

Backing-track maker who records parts

Regularly records melodies and chords, weighing up a wider keyboard range against the desk space available. Novation's specifications, for example, show that the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Mini 37 MK4 differ in width.

Producer with existing software

Wants a keyboard that works with a DAW or a library of software instruments already in use. Check the controls and integration available for each model and software version; Native Instruments, for example, describes pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.

What should you look for when choosing one?

First, measure the space left beside your computer and mouse. Then compare the keyboard range you need, the rhythm controls and how well it works with your existing software.

What to consider What should you check? Who should prioritise this?
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, leaving room for your mouse and cables. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 at 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm. If I want to use the keyboard beside my computer, it needs to fit without taking over my workspace. Around 33% of consumers prioritise the space available.
Pads and hands-on controls Check how many pads there are and what they control in your DAW. Novation specifies 16 pads for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; Arturia describes the MiniLab 3 as having two banks of eight. For rhythms and clips, I want to use pads without relying entirely on my mouse. Around 27% of consumers give these rhythm controls top priority.
Keyboard range Compare the number of keys with the parts you record and the space needed. Novation lists 25 mini keys and a width of 339 mm for the Mini 25, compared with 37 mini keys and 478 mm for the Mini 37. When I play melodies and chords, I want enough keys within easy reach. Around 20% of consumers prioritise playing range over the smallest unit or extra pads.
DAW and software Check support for your DAW and software version, the controls you want, and any installation or activation steps. Integration can vary by model, software and configuration. When I already use a particular DAW and instrument library, I want to know whether the controls will work for me and avoid choosing an unnecessary software bundle. Around 20% of consumers prioritise compatibility.

Things to watch out for when buying

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    A model with more keys may take up more space beside your computer and mouse. According to Novation, the Mini 37 is 139 mm wider than the Mini 25.

    Measure the available width and depth, then decide whether the extra range is worth the space it takes up for the parts you play.

  • Assuming similar model names mean the same version

    According to Akai, the MPK Mini IV differs from the MPK Mini MK3 in areas such as connections and controls.

    Check the full model name, along with the connections and software included with the version you choose.

  • Assuming the pads and knobs control everything straight away

    Launchkey controls may depend on your version of Ableton Live and your configuration. Setting up the functions you want may take extra time.

    Look up the setup instructions for the exact model and your DAW version before assuming the controls will work straight away.

Brands and their compact models

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed for a narrow workspace; the Mini 37 MK4 offers more mini keys if you have enough width.

  • Novation specifies 16 pads on both versions. The listed widths are 339 mm for the Mini 25 and 478 mm for the Mini 37.
  • DAW control depends on the software version and configuration.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines 25 slim keys with pads, sliders and a MIDI-DIN output.

  • Arturia specifies four sliders and two banks of eight pads.
  • The listed depth is 220 mm, so measure whether the keyboard will fit in front of your computer. Also check which software and activation are included with the version on offer.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is a compact option to compare if you're looking for keys, pads and physical pitch and modulation wheels.

  • Akai lists DAW mapping and a software bundle as features of the MPK Mini IV.
  • These are manufacturer specifications, not an independent performance comparison. Don't confuse the IV with the MK3.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol M32 is designed for those who mainly play software instruments and browse NKS sounds.

  • Native Instruments lists 32 keys and eight pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • The integration described doesn't automatically apply to every plug-in or DAW.

Nektar

The Impact GX Mini offers keys and transport controls; the Impact LX Mini is worth comparing if pads are important to you.

  • Nektar lists eight control buttons and a sustain pedal input for the GX Mini. For the LX Mini, Nektar lists drum pads and a pedal input.
  • Check the exact version and its support for your DAW rather than relying on the model range alone.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard make sound by itself?

Not by itself: according to Akai, the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to software that produces the sound. Check which computer, software or external sound source you'll use with your chosen controller; the MK3's features don't automatically apply to the MPK Mini IV.

How do you connect a Launchkey Mini MK4 to Ableton Live?

Novation says it's automatically recognised in Ableton Live 11 or 12, and provides instructions for manual setup and a USB driver for Windows. According to Novation, Live 10 and earlier don't support the full integration, although generic MIDI use is possible.

Are bundled software instruments ready to use straight away?

It depends on the bundle and version. Akai describes the MPK Mini IV as coming with a software bundle that includes Ableton Live Lite 12; check which licences are included with the version on offer and whether installation or activation is required.

What warranty applies to a MIDI keyboard bought online in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, when you buy as a consumer you're entitled to a product that works as it should; there is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands. If a product is faulty, the seller must provide a solution. When you buy online from a business, you generally have 14 days to change your mind; check which terms apply to your purchase.

Can you share backing tracks featuring other people's music publicly?

Not automatically. The Dutch government says you may need permission from the creator to use copyright-protected music. A private copy for your own use can't be distributed or made public; check the rights and licences if you use existing material or publish a track.