Who is this choice relevant to?

Producer sharing a desk

You want to be able to put the controller away after making backing tracks. So, check the width, depth and connection type of the exact model you’re considering.

Maker of rhythmic backing tracks

You want to use pads to control drums, samples or clips as well as keys. Check that the pad functions work in your DAW in the way you want to use them.

Melody and chord player

You prefer to play parts on keys, and are weighing up a wider playing range against the extra desk space the controller will take up.

What should you consider when choosing?

First, measure the available width and depth, allowing space for the cable. Then decide whether you need pads, more keys or direct control of your music software.

Point to consider What should you check? Who is this more important to?
Space and storage Measure the available width and depth, leaving room for the cable; compare the dimensions of the exact model you’ve chosen. If I need to use the desk for other work afterwards, I want to know how much space the controller takes up. Around 36% of consumers say keeping desk space clear is their top priority.
Drums and arrangements Check the number of pads and which pad and transport controls work in your DAW. If I want to input rhythms or repeated parts, I look for physical pads that suit the way I work. Around 29% of consumers prioritise pad and rhythm controls.
Keyboard range Decide whether 25 keys will be enough; measure the available width if you’re considering a model with more keys. If I want to play in basslines, melodies or chords without changing octaves too often, playing range matters to me. Around 21% of consumers make range their main consideration.
Connection and DAW Check the connection, software licence and compatibility with your DAW and the functions you want. If I want to use the controller directly with my music software, I want to know in advance which connection and controls will work for me. Around 14% of consumers start with connectivity and DAW integration.

Dimensions and features vary by model. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 at 339 × 177 mm, while Arturia gives the MiniLab 3 dimensions of 355 × 220 mm. Korg specifies 325 × 83 × 16 mm for the nanoKEY2 and lists mini-USB, so check that the cable will work with your computer too.

For pad control, Novation lists 16 pads on the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, while Arturia lists eight on the MiniLab 3. Novation describes the FLkey 2 Mini 25 as offering dedicated FL Studio controls; if you use other software, check which functions are available.

Things to consider before buying

  • Assuming a compact controller makes sound on its own

    A USB MIDI controller can send control data to software without producing sound itself. Akai describes the MPK Mini MK3 in these terms.

    Check what software or external sound source you’ll need, and what’s included with the exact version you’re buying.

    To make and hear backing tracks, you may also need a computer with suitable software or an external sound source.

  • Measuring the width only

    Listed depth varies between models, and a connected cable also needs space on the desk.

    Measure both the available width and depth, and leave room for the connection.

  • Treating an older and a newer model generation as the same product

    Bax Music lists the Launchkey Mini MK3 as discontinued and describes the Mini 25 MK4 as a separate model. Information about the MK3 doesn’t confirm the features or availability of the MK4.

    Compare the full model name and generation before assessing specifications or an offer.

Brands to consider

Novation

Worth considering if you want compact DAW controls, or use FL Studio and want dedicated controls for it.

  • Novation says the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 has 16 pads and eight encoders. The FLkey 2 Mini 25 offers features for FL Studio.
  • The FL Studio features won’t necessarily be an advantage in another DAW. The Launchkey Mini 37 is wider than the Mini 25.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines keys, pads, encoders and sliders in one controller.

  • Arturia specifies eight pads, eight encoders, four sliders and a five-pin MIDI output.
  • The listed depth is 220 mm; Novation lists 177 mm for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4. This compares listed dimensions only, not the playing experience.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini range is worth considering if you want a compact controller with keys and pads.

  • Akai lists physical pitch and modulation wheels, pads and a MIDI output for the MPK Mini IV.
  • These are model specifications, not an independent assessment of the playing experience or confirmation that every version is available.

Korg

The nanoKEY2 is worth a look if you’re mainly after a shallow USB keyboard.

  • Korg specifies dimensions of 325 × 83 × 16 mm and 25 velocity-sensitive keys.
  • The product specifications don’t list drum pads and specify mini-USB; check which cable you’ll need.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol M32 is worth considering if you want 32 keys and controls within the Komplete ecosystem.

  • Native Instruments lists 32 synth-action keys and integration with its own instruments and software.
  • Check separately whether that ecosystem works for your DAW and existing software; the manufacturer’s description isn’t an independent compatibility test.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller make sound on its own?

Not necessarily. A MIDI controller can send messages to computer software instead of making sound itself. Akai describes the MPK Mini MK3 in these terms. For the model you choose, check what software or external sound source you’ll need.

What should I check when connecting it at a shared desk?

Check the connection type on your exact model and computer. Arturia lists USB-C for the MiniLab 3, while Korg specifies mini-USB for the nanoKEY2. Also check that your DAW recognises the MIDI device as an input and which software is included with your version.

What warranty rights do I have in the Netherlands if a key or USB port fails during normal use?

According to ACM ConsuWijzer, in addition to any manufacturer’s warranty, you have a statutory guarantee from the seller if the product doesn’t meet what you could reasonably expect. In the Netherlands, there’s no fixed statutory period of exactly two years; the circumstances and expected lifespan of the product are taken into account.

Is CE marking a quality mark for my MIDI controller?

No, CE marking isn’t a quality mark. According to Business.gov.nl and the European Commission, electrical and electronic equipment must comply with the relevant European product rules, including requirements for electromagnetic compatibility. Where the rules require CE marking, the responsible party must arrange the necessary conformity assessment and documentation. This alone doesn’t prove that a specific offer meets the requirements.