For short music worksheets, you can start by entering notes using your computer keyboard; MuseScore Studio supports this method without a MIDI keyboard too. Choose a MIDI controller if you prefer entering notes using piano keys, or a standalone keyboard if you also want to play without a computer. Base your choice on the range of keys you need, the space available on your desk and how you want to listen to the audio. For the exact version, check that it has the required CE marking.
You create short musical examples or exercises for worksheets and want to know whether piano keys could complement your existing workflow. MuseScore Studio also supports note entry using a computer keyboard or a MIDI keyboard.
You want to enter notes using piano keys, but need to leave room for computer work and think about how you’ll listen to the audio. A controller’s dimensions can help you compare it with the space available on your desk.
You want to play examples on the instrument as well as create worksheets, without relying on a computer. Yamaha Netherlands lists 61 keys for the Yamaha PSR-E383, while Casio Netherlands says the Casio CT-S300 has built-in speakers.
Start with the biggest constraint in your working day: how you enter notes, how you listen, the space available or the range of the keyboard.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Entering notes for worksheets | Try a representative worksheet in your own notation software and see whether entering notes with a MIDI keyboard would complement your workflow. | If I mainly write short exercises, I want to know whether piano keys add anything to the way I already enter notes. Around 36% of consumers say note entry is their top priority. |
| Listening without disturbing colleagues | Decide whether you want to listen through your computer or the instrument, then check the audio output and connections you’ll need. | If I want to check my examples in the office, I want to know in advance how I can listen to playback without having to use the office speakers. For around 29% of consumers, being able to listen quietly comes first. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. | When I use worksheet materials on the desk as well as my computer, I want to leave enough clear space. Around 21% of consumers name desk space as their main consideration. |
| Key range for your examples | Compare the lowest and highest notes in your own exercises with the keyboard, and consider whether changing octaves would work for you. | If my examples need a wider range straight away, I want to be able to play the notes I need on the keyboard. Key range is the top priority for around 14% of consumers. |
A MIDI controller can send notes to computer software without producing sound itself. Akai describes the MPK Mini MK3 as a controller that sends MIDI messages to software on a computer.
Decide in advance whether you want to get the sound from your computer or play without one too. MuseScore Studio has separate settings for MIDI input and audio output.
Depending on the workflow you choose, you may also need suitable software and an appropriate audio output.
The models reviewed range from 25 slim keys to 49 full-size keys; a standalone keyboard may offer a different range. A higher key count alone doesn’t tell you whether the instrument will suit your desk or exercises.
Measure the available space and compare the range with a few of your own examples before choosing a size.
A MIDI connection for entering notes doesn’t confirm how the exact version outputs sound or whether it allows you to listen privately.
Check your computer’s audio output and, for a standalone keyboard, the connections on the exact version.
The MiniLab 3 is a compact USB-MIDI controller for note entry and software control when desk space is limited.
The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is a compact controller option for anyone looking for 37 piano-style keys.
The Keystation 49 MK3 is a USB-MIDI controller with a larger keyboard for use with a computer.
The PSR-E383 is a standalone keyboard for anyone who wants to play examples without notation software.
The CT-S300 is a standalone keyboard to compare with MIDI controllers and other instruments.
This selection features standalone 61-key keyboards for anyone who wants to play examples as well as create worksheets. For the exact version, check that it has the required CE marking and the connections you need. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority states that CE marking is compulsory for electrical products.
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A good option if you’re looking for a standalone keyboard with piano keys to play examples alongside your worksheets.
The product title lists 61 keys, USB-MIDI and a headphone socket.
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An option to consider if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard to play on independently alongside your music worksheet work.
The product title mentions a MIDI controller; check the connections and compatibility with your notation software.
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A good option if you want to play on a standalone keyboard as well as create worksheets.
The product title lists 61 keys, USB-MIDI, 300 sounds and 300 rhythms, plus a stand, stool and music rest.
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An option to consider if you want to play examples on a standalone keyboard alongside your worksheet work.
The product title lists 61 keys, 500 sounds, dual speakers, a stand and a stool.
No, you can also enter notes using your computer keyboard. MuseScore Studio supports this input method and can export a score as a PDF; try this workflow before choosing additional hardware.
It depends on the model; don’t assume that a MIDI controller makes sound on its own. For example, Akai says that the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to computer software and doesn’t produce sound itself. Check the specifications for the exact model.
Check the connection and select the intended MIDI input device in your notation software. MuseScore Studio provides separate audio and MIDI settings for this; also refer to the manufacturer’s model-specific instructions.
Check which audio outputs are supported by your computer or the exact keyboard version, and whether you can connect headphones to one of them. A USB-MIDI connection for entering notes doesn’t, by itself, confirm which listening connections are available.
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority states that CE marking is compulsory for electrical products. Check the CE marking and accompanying product information for the exact version on offer; a general rule doesn’t confirm that a specific model complies.
