Who is this for?

Producer with a cramped desk

Wants to play melodies without a floor stand, so focuses on comparing the width and depth of compact controllers. The published dimensions of models from Korg, Novation and Arturia can help you decide.

Melody writer looking for a wider range

Wants to switch octaves less often while playing and weighs up extra keys against the desk space available. Novation and M-Audio offer models with different numbers of keys.

Beatmaker who also triggers clips

Wants to combine melodies with pads for rhythms or clips, and checks that the controls work with their music software. Novation describes the pads and encoders on its Launchkey Mini models.

What should you consider when choosing?

Start by checking the width and depth of your desk space, then compare the playing range and controls you’ll actually use when making music.

What to consider What to look for Who should pay particular attention?
Desk space Measure the width and depth. Korg lists the nanoKEY2 as measuring 325 × 83 × 16 mm; Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as 339 × 177 mm. If my desk space is limited, I want to know first whether the controller will fit. Around 36% of consumers say the space it takes up is their top priority.
Playing range Compare the number of keys with the width of the exact model: Novation lists the Mini 25 at 339 mm wide and the Mini 37 at 478 mm; M-Audio lists 32 mini keys for the Keystation Mini 32 MK3. I want to play melodies across more keys without constantly switching octaves. Playing range comes first for around 29% of consumers.
Pads and controls Check the number of pads and encoders, and whether your DAW supports the features you want. Novation lists 16 pads and eight encoders for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4. If I want to control beats or clips as well as melodies, pads and software controls matter. Around 21% of consumers choose these features as their top priority.
Connections and sound source Check the connections and software support for the exact model. Arturia lists a five-pin MIDI output for the MiniLab 3; a standard MIDI controller does not produce sound by itself. If my existing software or equipment is a deciding factor, I first check what it connects to and how I’ll hear the sound. Connections are the top priority for around 14% of consumers.

Common buying mistakes

  • Mistaking a small controller for a standalone keyboard

    A standard MIDI controller sends performance data, but does not produce the sound of your melody itself.

    Before you buy, check which sound source you’ll use and how you’ll listen to the sound.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    More keys can take up more space. Novation lists the Mini 37 as 478 mm wide, compared with 339 mm for the Mini 25.

    Measure the width and depth available, then decide whether having more notes within easy reach is worth the extra space.

  • Expecting every control to work automatically with every DAW

    Receiving MIDI notes and controlling additional software features directly are two different things. Bundled software may also require registration and installation.

    Check the manual for the exact model and the terms for any bundled software, making sure they’re compatible with your operating system and DAW.

Brands to compare

Korg

Korg describes the nanoKEY2 as a very slim, 25-key keyboard for anyone looking to save desk depth.

  • Korg lists dimensions of 325 × 83 × 16 mm and velocity-sensitive keys.
  • The listed controls include octave and sustain. Check whether each model has the pads and encoders you need.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Mini 37 combine mini keys with pads and controls for music software.

  • Novation lists 16 velocity-sensitive pads and eight encoders for both models. The Mini 37 has 37 keys.
  • The listed width of the Mini 37 is 478 mm, compared with 339 mm for the Mini 25. Also check that its software integration works with your DAW.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys with pads, faders and a five-pin MIDI output.

  • Arturia lists dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm, eight pads per bank, eight encoders and four faders.
  • Its listed depth is greater than that of the Launchkey Mini models mentioned here. Check that the MIDI output is compatible with the input on your external device.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is a compact option for combining melodies with pads, wheels and music software controls.

  • Akai lists mechanical pitch and modulation wheels and a MIDI output for this model.
  • Check the software requirements and the features you need. Manufacturer claims about playing experience or DAW integration are not independent performance tests.

M-Audio

The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is a USB MIDI keyboard with 32 mini keys for software instruments.

  • M-Audio lists velocity-sensitive keys, octave buttons and USB power.
  • Its controls are simpler than those on controllers with pads and encoders. Check that the number of controls suits the way you work.

Joybuy product selection

This Joybuy selection includes a 61-key keyboard with a MIDI controller, for anyone who wants to play more keys directly and has enough desk space. Before buying, check the dimensions and connections of the exact model.

Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller

61-key keyboard with MIDI controller, black

Worth considering if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard with a MIDI controller and have room for this model.

The product title lists 61 keys and a MIDI controller. Check the dimensions and connections before planning where to place it.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller produce sound by itself?

A standard MIDI controller does not produce the sound of a melody itself; it sends performance data to music software or a compatible external sound source, for example. Before you buy, check how you’ll play and listen to the sound.

How do I connect a compact controller for the first time?

Check the connection on the exact model and select the controller as the MIDI input in your software. If you also want to use pads or buttons, follow the model-specific DAW setup instructions and check that your software supports those features.

What warranty and cancellation rights apply to online purchases in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, consumer purchases must be of satisfactory quality; there is no fixed statutory warranty period of exactly two years. Many distance purchases come with a 14-day cancellation period, but check whether your order is covered and what exceptions apply. The cancellation period is separate from your rights if a product is faulty.