Who is a compact MIDI keyboard for?

Beginner sound designer

You want to adjust synthesiser settings using physical controls and hear what each change does. The number and assignability of the controls may matter more than having a full piano-style keyboard.

Producer with limited desk space

You share a small desk with a computer and want to weigh up a controller’s width and depth against the number of keys.

Software and synth hardware user

You may want to connect an external synthesiser as well as use a DAW. If so, pay attention to the difference between USB-MIDI, MIDI-DIN and CV/Gate.

What should you consider when buying?

Consideration What to look for Who should pay particular attention?
Hands-on sound control Check how many controls you can assign individually and how they work with your DAW or plug-in. If I want to learn to change software synth parameters using physical controls, I look at how many knobs there are and how they can be assigned. Around 28% of consumers prioritise hands-on sound control.
Size for your practice space Measure the available width and depth, allowing space for cables, a mouse and your computer. If I’m sharing a small desk between a controller and other equipment, it needs to fit the available space. Around 22% of consumers prioritise a suitable size.
Sound and software Check compatibility with your computer and DAW, as well as the terms for any bundled software. If I first need a working setup that I can hear, I check the sound source and listening connection before choosing extra keys. Around 22% of consumers start with sound and software.
Key range and playing feel Compare the number and type of keys with the parts you want to play; key feel is personal. If I prefer to play notes directly on the keyboard, I weigh up the range against the space the keyboard takes up. Around 17% of consumers prioritise playing range.
Connecting to synth hardware Compare your instrument’s input with the connections on the exact controller model. If I want to control an external synth I already own, the controller needs to have the connection that instrument requires. Around 11% of consumers start by considering connections to external equipment.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing a MIDI controller with a keyboard that makes its own sounds

    A standard controller doesn’t produce sound itself: it sends MIDI messages to software or other equipment. Without a suitable sound source, you won’t hear the changes you make.

    Before buying, decide which software or other device will produce the sound, and what you’ll use to listen to it.

  • Comparing only the width or number of keys

    Depth and space for cables and a mouse also determine whether a controller will fit on your desk. More keys can give you a wider playing range, but they also take up more room.

    Measure your desk and compare the dimensions of the exact version you’re considering, not those of a different keyboard variant.

  • Assuming software bundles and control assignments will work automatically

    Software may require activation, and control options differ between standard MIDI messages and dedicated DAW modes.

    Check the current software bundle, system requirements and support for your DAW and plug-in.

  • Assuming USB-MIDI connects to every synth

    The output you need depends on the MIDI or CV input of the instrument you already own.

    Compare the connections on both exact devices before choosing between a software-focused and a hybrid controller.

Relevant brands to consider

Arturia

Arturia’s MiniLab 3 combines software controls with MIDI-DIN; the KeyStep mk2 is also designed for sequencing and hybrid setups.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has 25 slim keys, eight encoders and four faders. The KeyStep mk2 has 32 keys and connections including MIDI-DIN, USB-C and CV/Gate.
  • The MiniLab 3 has fewer keys than the KeyStep mk2. The KeyStep mk2 doesn’t offer the same type of control as a controller with multiple dedicated synth encoders and faders.

Novation

According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Mini 37 MK4 combine a compact keyboard with DAW and pad controls.

  • Novation lists eight encoders and sixteen pads for the Mini models. The Mini 37 has more keys than the Mini 25.
  • The specifications for these Mini models don’t list any faders. Compare the space taken up by the version you choose with the space available on your desk.

Akai Professional

According to Akai Professional, the MPK Mini IV combines pads, pitch and modulation wheels, DAW controls and a MIDI output.

  • Akai Professional lists a MIDI output and a display as differences from the MPK Mini MK3.
  • Check the exact generation number and the current requirements for the bundled software. Performance hasn’t been independently tested here.

Native Instruments

According to Native Instruments, the Komplete Kontrol M32 is a compact controller with 32 keys and eight pre-assigned, touch-sensitive knobs.

  • Its pre-configured controls are designed for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • Don’t assume every plug-in offers the same level of direct integration; check whether your software is supported.

Devine

Bax Music’s Dutch product page describes the EZ-Creator Plus as a compact controller with 25 mini keys, pads, encoders and faders.

  • Bax Music’s product specifications list eight pads and no display.
  • The 2018 manual describes Bitwig 8-Track, but doesn’t confirm which software bundle or redemption terms apply to a current unit. Check these before buying.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard make sound without a computer?

According to Akai Professional, a standard MIDI controller such as the MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound itself; it sends MIDI messages to software. Bax Music makes the same distinction. If you want to practise without a computer, check whether another device has its own sounds and a suitable listening connection.

How do I get sound from my practice setup?

Connect the controller to your computer, select the correct MIDI input in your DAW, load a software instrument and set up the audio output. Arturia describes these steps for the MiniLab 3 with Analog Lab; menus vary between software.

What should I check if the knobs don’t change anything in my plug-in?

Check the active MIDI port, DAW integration or MIDI assignments, and software activation if needed. For the MiniLab 3, Arturia distinguishes between a standard MIDI port and a separate MCU/HUI control port, among other options; the right setting depends on your DAW.

How do I look after a MIDI controller in a small space?

Keep the device dry and follow its own manual for connecting and cleaning it. Devine’s manual specifically warns you to keep the EZ-Creator Plus away from damp, wet and rainy conditions; check the instructions for your model if you have a different one.

What are my rights if a product is faulty or I buy online in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, if a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for handling the statutory guarantee; the Netherlands doesn’t have a fixed statutory guarantee period. For a standard online purchase, ACM ConsuWijzer says you’ll usually have up to 14 days from delivery to change your mind, subject to legal exceptions.