Who are these controllers for?

Producer with limited desk space

Wants to record short bass, chord and drum parts while standing, without putting a large keyboard on the desk. Novation and Arturia list compact models in different sizes.

DAW-focused track builder

Wants to switch less between the controller and mouse while creating backing tracks. How well direct control works depends on the DAW, its version and the settings; Nektar and Akai describe control options for their own models.

Keyboard player or clip creator

Needs to decide whether playing longer keyboard parts or launching clips is the main task. Novation offers keyboards with different numbers of keys; Akai designed the APC Mini MK2 for clip control.

What should you look for when choosing?

Start with the task you do most often, then check that the model fits your desk and works with your DAW.

What to consider What to look for Who should consider this?
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables, and compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. If I want to use the controller alongside my other equipment, a small footprint is important. Desk space is the top priority for around 36% of consumers.
DAW control Check the official integration guide for your DAW and its version. For the APC Mini MK2 to work as intended, Akai specifies Live 11.2.7 or later. I want to control features from the controller without constantly reaching for the mouse. Direct DAW control is the main thing around 29% of consumers are looking for.
Keys and playing range Compare the number of keys with the parts you want to play. Novation lists 25 mini keys and dimensions of 339 × 177 mm for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, compared with 49 semi-weighted keys and dimensions of 730 × 264 mm for the Launchkey 49 MK4. If I want to play bass lines and chords on the keys, the range I can play at once matters. Keyboard parts are the main priority for around 21% of consumers.
Pads for beats or clips Decide whether you want velocity-sensitive pads for drum notes or a grid for launching clips. Akai states that the APC Mini MK2's pads are not velocity-sensitive; Novation specifies 16 velocity-sensitive pads on the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4. If I mainly play beats on pads or launch clips, I want the controls to suit the task. Pad control is the top priority for around 14% of consumers.

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Assuming all 25-key controllers are the same size

    Even compact models don’t all take up the same amount of space. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm; Novation gives the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 dimensions of 339 × 177 mm.

    Measure the available width and depth on your desk, and allow room for the cable routing.

  • Assuming a clip grid is the same as velocity-sensitive drum pads

    According to Akai, the APC Mini MK2's pads are not velocity-sensitive. Launching clips and playing drum notes with varying dynamics are therefore different use cases.

    Choose based on your main task: launching clips or playing drum notes with different levels of force.

  • Assuming ‘DAW integration’ means support for every version

    Manufacturer documentation sets out version requirements and settings for specific controllers. General compatibility claims don’t tell you on their own which features will work with your software.

    Check the guide for the controller, DAW and version you use.

Relevant MIDI controller brands

Novation

The Launchkey MK4 series includes compact keyboards and a larger keyboard for anyone looking for more keys or fader control.

  • Novation lists 16 pads and dimensions of 339 × 177 mm for the Mini 25 MK4. According to Novation, the 49 MK4 has nine faders and measures 730 × 264 mm.
  • The compact and larger models differ in size and controls; features of one model don’t automatically apply to the other.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with pads, sliders and controls for music software.

  • Arturia lists 25 keys, eight pads in two banks and dimensions of 355 × 220 mm.
  • DAW integration depends on the script and software version. Check the instructions for the DAW you use.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is a compact keyboard with pads; the APC Mini MK2 is designed for clip control in Ableton Live.

  • Akai lists transport controls and a MIDI output for the MPK Mini IV. The APC Mini MK2 has a grid of 64 pads.
  • According to Akai, the APC Mini MK2's pads are not velocity-sensitive. Akai specifies a Live version requirement for the controller to work as intended.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini is a compact keyboard for anyone looking for keys, pads, transport controls and a pedal input.

  • Nektar lists 25 mini keys, eight pads, seven transport buttons and a pedal input.
  • Check support for your music software before relying on specific DAW controls.

MIDI controllers at Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need software as well as the controller to hear sound?

Yes, for the Launchkey Mini setup described: Novation says the included sounds run through software on a computer, either on its own or in a DAW. For another model, check which software and registration are required.

What should I check when connecting it?

Check the USB connection and select the correct controller and ports in your DAW. Novation recommends updating the firmware the first time you connect the Launchkey Mini 25; Arturia provides separate DAW settings for the MiniLab 3.

Should I allow for extra software or a pedal?

Check which software and accessories are included with the exact model. According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has a pedal input; check the product listing to see whether a pedal is actually included.

What returns and warranty rights apply to a consumer purchase in the Netherlands?

According to the Government of the Netherlands, a 14-day cooling-off period applies to many qualifying online consumer purchases, but it doesn’t cover every distance purchase. If a product is faulty, the seller must offer a solution. The Government of the Netherlands also states that there is no fixed statutory warranty period covering all products in the Netherlands.