Which input method is right for you?

Creating text and notation exercises

You write explanations and questions in notation software, and mainly need a computer keyboard for text and shortcuts. MuseScore Studio lists computer keyboard input as one of the available options.

Entering melodies by playing them

You regularly create musical examples and want to enter notes using piano keys, alongside typing on your computer. MuseScore Studio also supports input via a MIDI keyboard.

Working with limited desk space

You switch between writing, notation work and using the mouse at a sit-stand desk, and need to check whether your equipment fits in both desk positions.

What should you consider when choosing?

Computer keyboard

Choose this if: you mainly enter worksheet text, exercises and notation shortcuts.

Trade-off: a compact model can free up desk space, but may not have a number pad; it won’t have piano keys for MIDI input.

MIDI keyboard alongside a computer keyboard

Choose this if: you regularly want to enter notes or chords using piano keys and have room for a second device.

Trade-off: mini keys take up less space, but are smaller; extra pads and DAW controls aren’t necessarily useful for creating worksheets.

What to consider What should you look for? Who is this most relevant to?
Text and shortcuts Check the physical key layout and try out the shortcuts you use in your notation software. I mainly want to write exercises and use shortcuts in notation software. Around 33% of consumers say text and shortcuts are their main requirement.
Entering notes Compare the number and size of the piano keys, and check MIDI input in the software you use. I regularly enter melodies or chords and want to do so using piano keys. Around 25% of consumers prioritise entering notes with piano keys.
Desk space and working posture Measure the available space in both sitting and standing positions, and decide where the mouse and any second keyboard will go. I want to position my keyboard, mouse and any MIDI controller comfortably when I change the desk height. Around 25% of consumers prioritise space and working posture.
Connection and software Check the connection on the exact model, the available computer ports and the MIDI settings in your notation software. I want to know in advance whether the connection and MIDI input will work with my computer and software. Around 17% of consumers say compatibility is their main requirement.

Common buying mistakes

  • Thinking a MIDI keyboard can replace a computer keyboard

    A MIDI controller sends musical input; it won’t automatically let you enter worksheet text or use standard computer keys.

    First, work out how much of your work involves text and shortcuts. Choose MIDI input only if it also suits the way you work; you may still need a separate computer keyboard.

  • Assuming extra pads and DAW controls will speed up notation work

    The practical benefits of these controls in a specific notation app aren’t always clear.

    Check which functions your software actually uses and compare them with the controls on a simpler MIDI keyboard.

    Controls you don’t use still take up space on the device and add features you may not need for creating worksheets.

  • Checking whether your equipment fits only when standing

    Your setup should remain practical when you change the desk height. Arboportaal warns that standing still for long periods can cause health problems.

    Test where the keyboard, mouse and any MIDI keyboard will go in both desk positions, and vary your posture.

Relevant brands to consider

Logitech

Computer keyboards for text and shortcuts; the MX Keys Mini is a compact model.

  • Logitech describes the MX Keys Mini as space-saving and distinguishes it from a full-size version with an integrated number pad.
  • This is a computer keyboard, not a MIDI keyboard. Logitech’s claims about posture and typing comfort are manufacturer claims, not independent findings for this workspace.

M-Audio

The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is a compact USB MIDI option for entering notes using piano keys.

  • According to M-Audio, the model has 32 velocity-sensitive mini keys and USB MIDI.
  • The keys are small, and the device doesn’t replace a computer keyboard for worksheet text.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini MK3 combines a compact MIDI keyboard with controls designed for music production.

  • Akai describes the model as a USB MIDI controller that controls computer software.
  • According to Akai, the controller doesn’t produce sound itself. Consider whether you need the extra production features; don’t mistake it for a standalone playable keyboard.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a MIDI controller with 25 keys and controls for entering notes and operating software.

  • Arturia specifies 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys, USB-C and dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm.
  • Included music production software and extra controls don’t prove that creating worksheets will be quicker.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is a compact controller with an emphasis on DAW controls.

  • Novation specifies 25 mini keys, pads and encoders.
  • Check separately whether the controls are useful in your notation software and how functions are assigned within it.

Joybuy product selection

This selection focuses on MIDI input using piano keys. A MIDI keyboard won’t replace a computer keyboard for worksheet text and shortcuts.

Electronic keyboard piano with MIDI, 61 keys, black

Electronic keyboard piano with MIDI, 61 keys, black

Suitable if you want to enter notes using piano keys; it won’t replace a computer keyboard for worksheet text and shortcuts.

61 keys; MIDI controller; recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand, according to the product name.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Do you need a MIDI keyboard to create musical examples in MuseScore Studio?

No. MuseScore Studio supports input using a computer keyboard, mouse or MIDI keyboard, among other options. For example, you can enter notes using a pitch letter from A to G; try it to see whether this method works for your worksheets.

Will a MIDI controller work straight away as a standalone keyboard?

Not necessarily. According to Akai, the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to computer software and doesn’t produce sound itself. For other models, check separately whether they can produce sound on their own.

What should you check with a sit-stand desk?

Measure where your computer keyboard, mouse and, if needed, MIDI keyboard will go, including when you change the desk height. Vary your posture: Arboportaal warns that standing still for long periods can cause health problems. For employees who work at a computer screen for more than 2 hours a day, Arboportaal specifies workplace requirements; these aren’t general purchasing conditions for every reader.

What warranty applies when you buy as a consumer in the Netherlands?

Statutory warranty applies in addition to any manufacturer’s or seller’s warranty. If a product breaks sooner than you could reasonably expect under normal use, the seller must provide an appropriate free solution, according to ACM ConsuWijzer. The applicable period isn’t the same for every keyboard.

Can you include copyrighted music in worksheets you hand out?

Don’t assume that you can. The Dutch government states that permission is generally required to use copyright-protected music, and that a private copy for personal use must not be distributed. Conditions and arrangements may apply to use in education; check the rights for the specific material before sharing it.