If you use a computer with a software synth as your sound source, a USB-powered controller is usually a simple way to avoid needing a separate mains adapter for the keyboard; Arturia and Novation describe models that are powered via USB. If you also want to avoid a cable to your host, look at battery-powered Bluetooth MIDI and check that your host supports it. A standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound on its own: to play without a computer or external synth, you’ll need a model with built-in sounds.
You already have a computer and software instrument, and want to play melodies without a separate mains adapter for the controller. Check how it’s powered via USB and which ports your computer has available. Arturia and Novation describe USB-powered controllers.
You want to play longer phrases with fewer octave changes and can make more room on your desk. Compare the Arturia MiniLab 3’s 25 keys with the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4’s 49 keys.
You already have a sound source outside your computer and want to play it using the controller. The type of MIDI output, your synth’s input and how each device is powered will determine how to connect them.
First, decide where the sound will come from: software, an external synth or the controller itself. Then check the power supply, connections and performance controls that suit your setup.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Power without an extra plug socket | Check whether the exact model is powered via USB and whether your computer has a suitable port. | If you don’t want a separate mains adapter for your controller, around 29% of consumers rank power as their main buying concern. |
| Key range for melodies | Compare the number of keys with your playing style and the space on your desk. Arturia lists 25 keys for the MiniLab 3; Novation lists 49 for the Launchkey 49 MK4. | If you want to play longer phrases without changing octave frequently, around 23% of consumers prioritise having a wider key range at their fingertips. |
| Connecting to a hardware synth | Compare the MIDI output with your synth’s input. The MiniLab 3 has a 5-pin MIDI output; the Launchkey Mini 37 has a 3.5 mm TRS Type-A output. | If you want to control an existing hardware synth, around 18% of consumers make a compatible connection their top priority. |
| Controlling software and your DAW | Check which controls your DAW and software version support, and how you can assign them. | If you want to control synth parameters from your music software, around 18% of consumers prioritise DAW control. |
| Wireless playing | Check for Bluetooth MIDI support on your host and remember to factor in the batteries. Korg lists two AA batteries for wireless use of the microKEY Air. | If you want to avoid a USB cable to your host, around 12% of consumers make wireless playing their top priority. |
USB can power the controller, but that doesn’t mean your computer, external synth or audio equipment won’t need its own power supply.
Before choosing, work out which devices produce sound and how each one is powered.
A MIDI controller sends performance data and usually doesn’t produce audible sound on its own. The Akai MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate model with built-in sounds.
Decide whether you want to use software sounds, an external synth or built-in sounds.
A 5-pin output and a 3.5 mm TRS Type-A output are different connections and may require different cables or an adapter.
Compare the controller’s output with your synth’s input before choosing a cable.
The MPK Mini Plus, MPK Mini Plus II and MPK Mini Play MK3 are separate models. Features such as built-in sounds and battery power aren’t automatically included with every MPK controller.
Check the full model name and the features you need for your setup.
The MiniLab 3 combines USB power with a 5-pin MIDI output, making it an option for a computer setup or a compatible external synth.
The Launchkey range includes the compact Mini 37, with a TRS Type-A MIDI output, as well as the Launchkey 49 MK4 for those looking for more keys.
The MPK Mini Plus is designed for controlling external equipment; the MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate model with built-in sounds.
The microKEY Air range offers Bluetooth MIDI for use with a compatible host.
Not necessarily for the controller itself, if it’s powered by a suitable USB host. Your computer, external synth and audio equipment may still need their own power supplies, so consider your complete setup before choosing.
MIDI sends performance data and doesn’t produce sound itself. Use a software instrument in your DAW or connect a compatible external sound source; according to Akai, the MPK Mini Play MK3 has built-in sounds.
No, the connection needs to match your synth’s input. The Arturia MiniLab 3 has a 5-pin MIDI output; the Novation Launchkey Mini 37 has a 3.5 mm TRS Type-A output. Check which cable or adapter you need and how both devices are powered.
Yes, Korg lists Bluetooth MIDI and two AA batteries for wireless use. Your host must support Bluetooth MIDI, and you’ll still need a sound source to hear the notes you play.
Check that your computer recognises the controller and that your DAW is using the correct MIDI input. Arturia describes specific port and DAW settings for the MiniLab 3; check the steps for your software version.
