Which type of MIDI controller is right for you?

Chord sketcher with limited desk space

You want to enter progressions quickly without giving up too much workspace, and want to know whether smaller keys and a chord mode will feel comfortable enough.

Keyboard player who performs parts themselves

You want a suitable keyboard range and key response for the way you like to play.

Producer with an existing DAW

You want notes, transport controls and software instruments to work together in your recording workflow.

What should you look for in a MIDI controller for chord progressions?

First, decide whether you want to play chords yourself or sketch them using chord assistance. Then check how the controller works with your DAW and what sound source you’ll need to make an audible recording.

What to consider What to look for when buying Who is this important for?
Range and playing feel Compare 25 mini keys, 37 keys and 49 full-size keys. Also check whether the keys are velocity-sensitive and, if you want to use sustain, whether there’s a pedal input. Novation and M-Audio list these features for specific models. If I want to play chords with both hands, I look at the range and feel of the keys; around 36% of consumers rank playing range as their top buying priority.
Space and chord sketching Measure your desk space and check the dimensions of the exact model. Also compare how the chord mode works and whether the key size suits you; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm. On a small desk, I want to sketch progressions quickly without the keyboard taking up too much space; around 29% of consumers prioritise compact chord sketching.
Working with your DAW Check that the controller works as a MIDI input with your operating system and DAW. Also check whether the transport or plug-in controls you want are available for that combination. If I want to keep using my existing DAW, I check that its controls and MIDI input work with it; around 21% of consumers rank DAW integration as their top priority.
Sound source and what you’ll need A standard USB MIDI controller sends MIDI data and doesn’t produce sound itself; you’ll need a suitable sound source to make an audible recording. Akai Professional explains this for its MPK Mini MK3. Also check which software and accessories are included with the exact product. When I want to make an audible recording, I want to know in advance which software, sound source or accessories I’ll need; around 14% of consumers prioritise a complete setup.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming ‘MIDI’ means it has piano sounds built in

    A standard MIDI controller sends data to software rather than producing sound itself. So, to make an audible recording, you’ll also need a suitable sound source.

    Check which DAW or instrument software you already use and what’s included with the version you choose.

  • Expecting different generations to have the same features

    Akai’s comparison states that the MPK Mini IV has chord and scale modes, while the MPK Mini MK3 does not.

    Compare the full model name and generation with the features you need to enter chord progressions.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Key size, dimensions and pedal connections vary by model, and all affect whether the controller suits your desk and playing style.

    Measure the space available, consider whether mini or full-size keys suit you, and check which accessories are included.

    M-Audio states that the sustain pedal for the Keystation 49 MK3 is sold separately.

Relevant brands to consider

Novation

Novation lists chord and scale features for the Launchkey models reviewed; the range includes versions with different numbers of keys.

  • The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 has 25 mini keys; the Launchkey 37 MK4 has 37 keys and measures 557 × 251 mm, according to Novation.
  • Compare the space required and playing range for each version; features of one model don’t automatically apply to the whole range.

Arturia

According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 combines 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys with chord mode, USB-C and controls for music software.

  • Arturia also lists a MIDI output and a pedal input for the MiniLab 3.
  • Consider whether the smaller keyboard suits the way you play; the features mentioned apply to the MiniLab 3.

Akai Professional

Akai Professional lists chord and scale modes for the MPK Mini IV; according to the manufacturer, the MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys and additional connections.

  • According to Akai Professional, the MPK Mini IV offers chord and scale modes.
  • Don’t confuse the MPK Mini IV with the MPK Mini MK3: Akai Professional states that the MK3 doesn’t have chord or scale modes. The Plus’s MIDI and CV/Gate connections are mainly useful if you want to use it with external equipment.

M-Audio

According to M-Audio, the Keystation 49 MK3 is a controller with 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, USB MIDI and transport controls.

  • According to M-Audio, the model has a sustain pedal input.
  • M-Audio states that the sustain pedal is sold separately; check whether this way of playing suits your setup.

Native Instruments

Native Instruments describes the Komplete Kontrol A49 as a 49-key controller with chord features and pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.

  • The manufacturer lists features for playing chords with a single key and pre-mapped controls for the plug-ins mentioned.
  • Check that the integration works with the plug-ins and DAW you actually use.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I record audible chord progressions with just a MIDI controller?

No. A standard USB MIDI controller such as the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI data to computer software and, according to Akai Professional, doesn’t produce sound itself. You’ll also need a suitable sound source in your setup to make an audible recording.

How do I connect a MIDI controller to my DAW?

With a USB MIDI model, connect the controller according to the manufacturer’s instructions, select it as the MIDI input in your DAW and assign a software instrument. For extra buttons or transport controls, check the documentation for your model and DAW; Akai Professional recommends consulting your DAW’s documentation for this.

Do I need to buy a sustain pedal separately?

That depends on the model and what’s in the box. M-Audio lists a pedal input for the Keystation 49 MK3 and says the pedal is sold separately; check what’s included with the version you’re looking at.

What warranty applies when buying from a Dutch retailer?

According to ACM ConsuWijzer, in addition to any retailer or manufacturer’s warranty, you’re entitled to a statutory guarantee if a product used normally doesn’t meet the expectations you were entitled to have of it. In the Netherlands, there isn’t one fixed statutory guarantee period of two years for every product; the retailer is your point of contact for a solution.

Can I return a controller bought online if the keyboard doesn’t feel comfortable to play?

Online purchases often come with a statutory cooling-off period. ACM ConsuWijzer states that this generally ends 14 days after the product has been delivered, and lists some exceptions. Check whether an exception applies to your purchase, for example if separate digital products are included.