Who is this for?

Bassist playing parts in

You want to play a bassline directly on the keys. First, work out how much range you need, then consider whether extra pads or sliders would be useful.

Producer building short bass patterns

You create riffs and loops in your DAW and are comparing physical pads and transport controls with a built-in sequencer, depending on how you make patterns.

Producer with an external synthesiser

You want to control hardware as well as your DAW. Check which MIDI, Sync or CV/Gate connections your instrument needs.

Key buying considerations

First, decide whether you mainly play basslines in or programme them. Then compare DAW controls and connections with the space you have on your desk.

Consideration What to look for when buying Who is this important for?
Keyboard range Compare the number and size of the keys with the way you play. Novation lists 25 mini keys for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and 49 keys for the Launchkey 49 MK4. If I play bass parts in directly, I want enough keys to play my line in my own way. Around 40% of consumers put keyboard range first when choosing.
DAW controls Check which features and scripts are available for your DAW and version. Ableton describes both control via a supported script and custom MIDI mappings. I want to control patterns and transport from my controller without constantly reaching for the mouse. Around 30% of consumers prioritise direct DAW control.
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, including space for cables. Also check how your DAW arranges windows across your two monitors; in Ableton Live, you can use Second Window. With two screens, I want enough space left to work comfortably. Around 20% of consumers say available desk space is the deciding factor.
External hardware Compare your synthesiser’s connections with those on the controller. Arturia lists MIDI DIN, Sync and CV/Gate alongside USB-C for the KeyStep 37 mk2. If I also want to control an external synthesiser, the connections need to work with my equipment. Around 10% of consumers make external hardware their top priority.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing two monitors with two displays on the controller

    Your computer and DAW manage how windows are arranged across your screens, not the display on a MIDI controller. Ableton Live can do this using its Second Window feature.

    Set up your screens first, then choose the physical keys and controls you want to use while working.

  • Expecting a MIDI controller to produce sound on its own

    MIDI sends performance data, such as notes and velocity. According to The MIDI Association, MIDI messages describe musical actions. A connected instrument or software instrument has to turn that data into sound.

    Before buying, check which sound source and audio output you already have, and how you use them with your DAW.

    To hear your MIDI notes, you also need a sound source and an audio output.

  • Expecting features from a different generation or DAW

    Akai distinguishes between the MPK Mini IV and the MPK Mini MK3; Novation describes FLkey 2 as a controller for FL Studio. Features from a different version therefore won’t automatically work with your controller and software.

    Check the full model name, generation, DAW and software version before relying on specific controls.

Brands to compare

Novation

Worth comparing if you’re looking for a compact keyboard, a larger keyboard with DAW controls or controls designed for FL Studio.

  • Novation lists 49 keys, 16 pads, eight encoders and nine faders for the Launchkey 49 MK4.
  • The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 offers a more limited keyboard range; also check the FLkey model and whether it’s compatible with your DAW version.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3, KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 and KeyStep 37 mk2 offer different combinations of keys, DAW controls and hardware connectivity.

  • Arturia lists 49 keys and DAW scripts for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3, and a step sequencer with MIDI, Sync and CV/Gate connections for the KeyStep 37 mk2.
  • These features are specific to certain models. Check which controls and connections suit your DAW and equipment.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is worth considering if you’re comparing compact keyboards with pads and physical controls.

  • Akai lists physical pitch and modulation wheels, transport controls, USB-C and a MIDI output for the MPK Mini IV.
  • Don’t confuse the MPK Mini IV with the MPK Mini MK3, and check how it works with your DAW setup.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini is worth comparing for a compact workspace where keys, pads and transport controls matter.

  • Nektar lists 25 mini keys, eight pads, eight controls and transport buttons for this model.
  • Check which controls work directly with your software.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a MIDI controller with two displays to use two computer monitors?

No, not for the setup described in Ableton Live: Live provides Second Window to spread views across two monitors. If you use another DAW, check how it handles multiple screens.

Why can’t I hear my bassline when I connect the MIDI keyboard?

A MIDI keyboard sends performance data, not recorded bass audio. Choose a software instrument in your DAW, select the MIDI input, set up monitoring or recording, and check your audio output.

Do I need to change any settings after connecting it?

That depends on the controller and DAW. Ableton describes control via a supported control-surface script and custom MIDI mappings; check the connections and setup steps for your exact model.

What if a controller I bought online isn’t right for my setup or develops a fault?

For a standard online consumer purchase, ACM ConsuWijzer states that you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period from delivery, subject to legal exceptions. If a product breaks too soon during normal use, your statutory guarantee is separate from any manufacturer’s guarantee, and the seller must offer a solution under the applicable terms.