Who is this suitable for?

Creators at a shared desk

You want to make music at a workstation where space and noise levels matter to your colleagues. Measure the available space and use a suitable headphone output for the audio; physical keystrokes may still be audible.

Beat and clip creators

You mainly build backing tracks using drum patterns or existing clips. Decide whether you want to play velocity-sensitive drum pads or launch clips in your software using a grid.

Melody and chord players

You play basslines, chords and melodies yourself. Compare the keyboard range and DAW controls with the space you have available.

What should you look for?

What to consider What to look for when buying Who is this most relevant to?
Desk space and sound Measure the available width and depth; check where your DAW sends the audio. If you work at a shared desk, you’ll want a controller that fits and lets you listen to audio through headphones. Around 33% of consumers put space and consideration for colleagues first.
Beats or clips Decide whether you’ll play in your own beats or launch existing clips; check support in your DAW. If you mainly want to play in beats or launch clips, the layout of the pads or grid makes all the difference. Around 25% of consumers give beat or clip controls top priority.
DAW controls Check the mode, settings and any scripts for your model, DAW and software version. If you want to control recording, playback or other DAW functions from the controller, check what your setup actually supports. Around 25% of consumers prioritise DAW controls.
Keyboard range Compare the number and size of the keys with the parts you want to play. If you want to play melodies and chords directly on the keys, the available range matters more than clip controls. Around 17% of consumers choose mainly on the basis of keyboard range.

The dimensions listed are product specifications, not sound measurements. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm. These measurements help you plan your desk, but they don’t tell you which model has quieter keys. Arboportaal points out that disruptive noise at work can be an issue even if it doesn’t cause hearing damage.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming headphones guarantee silent use

    Headphones keep the audio playback private, but keys and pads can still make physical noise. Arboportaal notes that disruptive noise at work can be an issue even if it doesn’t cause hearing damage.

    Consider the people sharing your workspace and test how the keys feel and sound in the conditions where you plan to work.

  • Choosing a clip grid when you mainly want to play chords

    Novation describes the Launchpad Mini MK3 as a clip grid, not a traditional keyboard. So a grid won’t replace a keyboard for playing in melodies and chords.

    First decide whether you’ll mainly launch clips or play notes; then compare the layout and number of pads or keys.

  • Confusing DAW compatibility with ready-to-use controls

    The available functions and configuration can vary by controller, DAW and software version.

    Check the manual for your exact model and software version to see which functions you can use.

  • Assuming included software will be available automatically

    Akai says the software for the MPK Mini MK3 must be redeemed after registration. A manufacturer’s warranty is also separate from your right to a product that is fit for purpose.

    Check what’s included in the specific offer and keep your purchase and registration details.

Brands to compare

Novation

Offers both compact keyboards with keys and pads, and a separate grid option for launching clips.

  • Novation says the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 has 25 mini keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads and 8 knobs.
  • According to Novation, the Launchpad Mini MK3 has a 64-pad grid; a grid is not a traditional keyboard. Check the functions available for your DAW.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines keys with pads, knobs and faders.

  • Arturia specifies 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys, 8 pads with two banks, 8 knobs, 4 faders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
  • Deeper DAW integration may depend on a script and software version for certain programmes; the compact keyboard range is another factor to consider.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini MK3 combines a small keyboard with pads for playing in notes and beats.

  • Akai describes it as having 8 velocity-sensitive pads and says the controller sends MIDI data to computer software.
  • According to Akai, the device doesn’t produce sound itself; the included software must be redeemed after registration.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini is a USB-powered option with 32 mini keys and assignable controls.

  • M-Audio lists assignable controls for functions including transport and channel controls.
  • The manufacturer says you need to select the DAW on the controller and set the correct configuration in the DAW.

Korg

The nanoKEY Studio combines keys, pads and knobs with USB or Bluetooth MIDI.

  • Korg specifies 25 keys, 8 pads and 8 knobs.
  • For wireless use, Korg specifies two AAA batteries. Check whether your computer and software support Bluetooth MIDI; wireless operation doesn’t prove that the model is quieter to play.

Joybuy product selection

This selection is a digital piano with USB MIDI for anyone who wants to play parts on the keys and use the built-in sounds too.

Digital Piano MLS-931, 61 keys, black

Digital Piano MLS-931, 61 keys, black

The listed USB MIDI connection makes this model suitable for a music software workflow; the headphone socket lets you listen privately.

61 weighted keys, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, LCD, USB MIDI, speakers and headphone socket.

Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a backing track play directly from a MIDI controller?

Not with a standard controller such as the MPK Mini MK3: it sends MIDI data to software that produces the sound. Check your computer and software’s audio output, and use a suitable headphone socket when listening in a shared space. Keys and pads may still make physical noise.

Why don’t my knobs immediately control the mixer or recording function?

A MIDI connection for playing notes doesn’t guarantee that you can control all DAW functions straight away. Select the right controller mode and follow the manual for your model, DAW and software version; Arturia describes specific scripts and settings for the MiniLab 3 with certain programmes.

What should I check when setting up the controller and its included software?

Check the required connection, power supply, DAW settings and any software registration for the exact model. Akai says the software for the MPK Mini MK3 must be redeemed after registration. Refer to the model’s manual for installation and maintenance.

What are my rights when buying remotely in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch Government, when you buy remotely from a business, you’re entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period in many cases, although exceptions apply. You’re also entitled to a product that is fit for purpose, and the seller is your point of contact if something is wrong. The Dutch Government notes that the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period covering all products; a manufacturer’s warranty is separate.

When is CE marking mandatory?

According to the European Union, CE marking is mandatory only for product categories covered by applicable harmonised EU rules that require it. Check the product information for the specific model; CE marking alone tells you nothing about physical key noise or compatibility with your DAW.