Start by measuring the available width and depth, then decide whether you only want to play bass notes or also control synth parameters using physical knobs. A shallow controller takes up little desk space but offers less hands-on control. Models with encoders, pads or a physical MIDI output need more room, and are most useful when your software or hardware supports those features.
Do you mainly want to play bass notes without giving up too much space in front of your screen? Measure the available depth, and remember to leave room for the connection too. The dimensions come from Korg and the relevant product listings.
If you want to control synth parameters with knobs while playing, weigh the extra hands-on control against the desk space required. Also check that your DAW and plug-in support the assignments you want. Model specifications and control options are described by the manufacturers.
If you want to send a bassline to an external synth, check that the controller’s MIDI output matches your synth’s input and find out which cable or adapter you need. Output types are based on the manufacturers’ manuals.
First, measure the space your keyboard can take up. Then choose between straightforward note entry, synth parameter control and connecting to external hardware.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, including room for the connection, and compare them with the dimensions of the exact version. | If you want to play bass notes at a shallow desk, every centimetre in front of your screen can count. Around 31% of consumers give top priority to taking up as little desk space as possible. |
| Hands-on sound control | Check how many encoders, pads or sliders are included, and whether your DAW and plug-in support the parameter mapping you want. | Physical controls matter if you want to adjust parameters while playing without constantly switching to software controls. Around 25% of consumers prioritise direct control over their synth sound. |
| Connecting an external synth | Compare the controller’s output type with your synth’s MIDI input, and check which cable, adapter and power supply you need. | If you mainly want to control a hardware synth, the connection needs to work with both devices. Around 19% of consumers choose primarily based on the connection for external hardware. |
| Getting started easily | Check which software is included with the exact version, whether it works on your computer and what you need to play the sound. | If you mainly want to play basslines and avoid extra physical controls, a simple controller may be enough, as long as your sound source is set up properly. Around 25% of consumers prioritise straightforward note entry. |
25-key controllers can vary considerably in depth and hands-on control. The same number of keys doesn’t necessarily mean they take up the same amount of desk space or offer the same controls.
Measure the space available and compare the dimensions, encoders, pads and software integration required.
A USB connection and a physical MIDI output are different connections. The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 uses TRS type-A MIDI out; the MiniLab 3 and MPK Mini IV have a 5-pin MIDI output.
Before buying, compare the controller’s output with your synth’s input. Also check which cable or adapter and power supply your setup needs.
Depending on the connected equipment, you may need a suitable MIDI cable or TRS type-A adapter.
For the Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, Novation describes the Novation Play sounds as computer software. So, included sounds don’t necessarily come directly from the keyboard.
Check where the sound source runs and what you need to play the sound.
The nanoKEY2 is designed for note entry where keeping desk depth to a minimum is important.
The SE25 is designed for compact note entry and basic DAW control.
The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 combines mini keys with physical controls for a software-focused workflow.
The MPK Mini IV is worth considering if you want physical controls and a 5-pin MIDI output in one controller.
The MiniLab 3 offers extra hands-on control when that matters more than keeping desk depth to a minimum.
With a USB MIDI controller, you’ll need a connected computer running a software instrument, or suitable external MIDI hardware. Novation describes the included Novation Play sounds as software that runs on a computer; check whether each model has its own sound source.
Connect the controller, select the correct MIDI input in your DAW and load a software instrument onto a track. For the MiniLab 3, Arturia explains how to select the MIDI port; menu names and parameter mappings depend on your DAW and plug-in.
Novation recommends updating the firmware via Novation Components when you connect the device for the first time, as some features may not work otherwise. For other models, follow their own manual rather than applying this instruction.
In the Netherlands, online purchases from a business generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period; the Dutch government says the seller must inform you about this. You also have statutory rights if a product doesn’t meet the terms of the contract. Before ordering, check the terms that apply to your purchase.
According to Business.gov.nl, sellers of electrical or electronic equipment must ensure that products comply with the applicable European rules. For equipment that requires CE marking, the government portal also explains the EU Declaration of Conformity. The exact rules depend on the product; this alone says nothing about whether an individual keyboard complies.
