Who is a compact MIDI controller relevant for?

Producer with limited desk depth

Wants to play bass notes without giving up too much space in front of the screen, so focuses on depth and key layout. Korg lists the nanoKEY2 as measuring 325 × 83 × 16 mm.

Bassline writer who wants to play keys

Prioritises velocity-sensitive keys and the ability to change octaves over extra controls. Korg lists the nanoKEY2 as having 25 velocity-sensitive keys and octave buttons.

Producer who also wants to control their DAW

Wants to use pads, transport controls or knobs while writing, and checks which features work with their software. Novation says the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 integrates with several DAWs.

What should you look for when buying?

Slim keys, minimal desk depth

Best for: playing bass notes when limited desk depth is the main constraint.

Trade-off: there are fewer controls than on models with pads and knobs; also consider whether the slim keys suit the way you play.

Compact keyboard with software

Best for: when you want velocity-sensitive keys and included music software, but don’t need extensive pad controls.

Trade-off: Arturia lists the MicroLab mk3 as measuring 406 × 125 mm; check that the included software suits the way you work.

Keys, pads and DAW controls

Best for: when you want to use pads to enter rhythms or other notes as well as bass notes.

Trade-off: Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm; check that it integrates with your DAW.

Measure the available width and depth, including room for the connection. Then decide whether you mainly want to use keys or also need pads and hands-on DAW controls.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Will it fit on your desk? Compare the width and depth in millimetres, allowing for the connection and cable. Korg lists the nanoKEY2 as measuring 325 × 83 mm; Arturia lists the MicroLab mk3 as 406 × 125 mm, and Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as 339 × 177 mm. If I have little space in front of my screen, I want the controller to fit with the cable connected. Around 36% of consumers put desk space first when making their choice.
Playing bass notes Check the velocity sensitivity, octave buttons and key shape. Specifications describe features, not how comfortable the keys will feel to you. If I want to play basslines with my fingers, I look at the key layout and range. Around 29% of consumers prioritise playing notes on the keys.
Controlling your DAW Check compatibility with your exact DAW and version, and see which MIDI settings are needed. The FLkey Mini 25 MK2 is designed for FL Studio; Novation says the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 integrates with several DAWs. If I want to control features in my music software while writing, I check that my DAW supports the commands I need. Around 21% of consumers focus mainly on their DAW workflow.
Pads and knobs Decide whether you want to use pads for notes or rhythms and knobs to control software; then check how to assign them in your DAW. If I want to use pads to enter rhythms or other notes as well as playing keys, the extra controls are worth the space they take up. Around 14% of consumers prioritise pads and controls.

Common pitfalls with compact MIDI controllers

  • Assuming all 25-key models are equally small

    A similar number of keys doesn’t mean controllers take up the same amount of desk depth. Korg lists the nanoKEY2 as having a depth of 83 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 220 mm deep.

    Compare the dimensions of the exact model version and allow for the space needed by the connection and cable too.

  • Assuming DAW integration works the same across all models

    Novation describes specific FL Studio features for the FLkey. MIDI input and control may also require separate settings in your software.

    Check compatibility with your DAW and version, and find out which features you’ll need to set up yourself.

  • Confusing a manufacturer’s warranty with your statutory rights

    In the Netherlands, you are entitled to a product that is fit for purpose; a manufacturer’s or seller’s warranty is an additional benefit. The Dutch government says there is no fixed statutory warranty period for every product, and that you should contact the seller if there is a fault.

    Keep your proof of purchase and report any fault to the seller.

Brands to consider

Korg

The nanoKEY2 is worth considering when minimal desk depth matters more than extensive controls.

  • Korg lists this model as measuring 325 × 83 × 16 mm, with 25 velocity-sensitive keys and octave buttons.
  • The specifications don’t tell you how comfortable the slim keys will feel to an individual user.

Arturia

The MicroLab mk3 is a compact keyboard; the MiniLab 3 adds pads, encoders and a MIDI output.

  • Arturia lists the MicroLab mk3 as measuring 406 × 125 mm and the MiniLab 3 as 355 × 220 mm.
  • In this model comparison, the MiniLab 3’s extra controls come with greater depth; this doesn’t indicate how other Arturia controllers compare.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 combines keys and pads with support for several DAWs; the FLkey Mini 25 MK2 is designed for FL Studio.

  • Novation lists both versions as measuring 339 × 177 mm.
  • The FLkey’s described direct FL Studio features don’t automatically apply to other DAWs.

Akai Professional

Akai says the MPK Mini IV combines keys, MPC pads, software features and a physical MIDI output.

  • Akai lists scale and chord modes and a USB-C connection.
  • These features don’t tell you how the model feels to use or whether it will fit on every small desk; measure your available space.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need anything besides a MIDI controller to hear a bass sound?

Yes. With this USB-MIDI setup, you’ll also need a software instrument or another suitable sound source. MIDI settings send notes and control messages, among other things; check that your controller is enabled as an input in your DAW and that the instrument track is receiving signals.

How do I set up a controller if my bass track isn’t responding?

Check the USB connection, select the correct MIDI input in your DAW and make sure the instrument track is receiving signals. Ableton describes separate settings for incoming MIDI notes and control messages; for other DAWs, consult the relevant manual.

What should I do if a controller I bought online doesn’t work properly?

In the Netherlands, you are entitled to a product that is fit for purpose, and the seller must provide a solution if there is a fault. There is no fixed two-year statutory warranty period in the Netherlands for every product. For online consumer purchases, a 14-day cooling-off period also applies in many cases; statutory exceptions may apply.

Which product markings are relevant when buying in the Netherlands?

Electrical and electronic equipment must comply with the applicable European product rules, including requirements relating to CE marking and conformity; the rules that apply also depend on the features of the particular model. The European Union says that most electrical and electronic equipment sold on the EU market must also carry the crossed-out wheeled bin symbol. Dispose of the device separately at the end of its working life.