Who is this controller for?

Producers with limited desk space

You want to play melodies while keeping your laptop, mouse and other work essentials on the same sit-stand desk. Compare the controller’s dimensions with the free space on your desk.

Melody players who use a DAW

You want a suitable keyboard range and may want to control virtual synths directly. Check that the features work with your software and suit the way you work.

Producers with a hardware synth

You want to send notes to an external instrument. The MIDI or CV connection you need depends on your synth’s inputs.

What should you look for when choosing?

First measure the free space on your desk, then decide how many keys you need, and check that the controls and connections suit your setup.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Will the controller fit on your desk? Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact version. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm. If I want to keep my laptop and work essentials on the same desk, I prioritise the space available. Around 36% of consumers put desk space first.
How many keys do you need? Decide whether 25 keys are enough or whether you’d prefer 37. Novation lists 37 mini keys for the Launchkey Mini 37; Arturia specifies 25 slim keys for the MiniLab 3. If I want to play longer phrases without constantly changing range, the number of keys matters more. Around 29% of consumers prioritise melodic range.
Do you want to control your software synth? Check that your DAW and plug-ins support the controls you want and see which settings are required. Novation lists eight encoders and 16 pads for the Launchkey Mini 37; M-Audio describes DAW setup for the Oxygen Pro Mini. If I want to control a software synth or DAW while playing, I first check that my software works with the features. Around 21% of consumers prioritise hands-on control.
Will it connect to your hardware synth? Compare the controller’s outputs with your synth’s inputs and control options. Arturia lists a five-pin MIDI output for the MiniLab 3; Akai lists MIDI/CV/Gate/Clock for the MPK Mini Plus. If I want to control an external synth, having the right connection is key to my choice. Around 14% of consumers prioritise hardware connectivity.

Common pitfalls

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a standalone synthesiser

    A controller can send MIDI messages to software without making any sound itself. Akai explicitly describes how this works for the MPK Mini MK3.

    Check where the sound comes from and how you’ll hear it, for example through the software and audio output you’ve set up.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    The depth of the casing and the size of the keys also affect whether a controller fits on your desk and feels comfortable to play. A compact keyboard may offer a more limited playing range at any one time.

    Measure the free space and compare it with the full dimensions of the exact version. Also decide which keyboard range suits the melodies you play.

  • Assuming USB connects directly to every hardware synth

    A USB connection and a MIDI output for an external instrument are different connection options. The connection you need depends on the controller and the synth.

    Compare the outputs and control options of the exact controller model with your synth’s inputs.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 37 is designed for playing melodies in a DAW, with 37 mini keys and hands-on controls.

  • Novation says this model has eight encoders, 16 velocity-sensitive pads and integration with the DAWs listed.
  • The 37 keys take up more space than a shorter keyboard. Check that the controls work with your software.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines a keyboard with controls and a five-pin MIDI output for compatible external equipment.

  • Arturia specifies 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys, encoders and dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm.
  • Check that the keyboard range and software bundle suit the way you work, and that the casing fits on your desk.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a 37-key model with hardware connections and sequencer features. The MPK Mini IV is a separate model.

  • Akai lists MIDI/CV/Gate/Clock and an internal two-track sequencer for the MPK Mini Plus.
  • Don’t assume features of the MPK Mini Plus are also available on the MPK Mini IV; check the full model name and version.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini is a 32-mini-key option for anyone who values software control.

  • M-Audio describes DAW control and automatic mapping.
  • For the Oxygen Pro Mini, M-Audio explains that you select the DAW on the controller and choose the corresponding configuration in the software. Check the steps for your setup.

Korg

The nanoKEY Studio is an alternative with keys, pads and knobs, suited to a workspace where a flat control surface works well.

  • Korg Nederland specifies 25 keys, eight pads, eight knobs, and USB and Bluetooth Low Energy MIDI.
  • Wireless use requires two AAA batteries. Also consider whether the key layout suits the way you play.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller make synthesiser sounds by itself?

Not necessarily: some controllers send MIDI messages to software rather than making sound themselves. Akai describes this for the MPK Mini MK3. Check where the sound comes from and how you’ll hear it with the model you choose.

How do I set up control of my DAW?

Follow the instructions for the exact model. If needed, select the DAW on the controller and configure it in the DAW as well. M-Audio describes both steps for the Oxygen Pro Mini; the setup may vary by model.

Do I need batteries or other accessories?

It depends on the version and how you connect it. Korg states that the nanoKEY Studio is powered by USB when connected by cable and requires two AAA batteries for wireless use. Also check which cables and software are included with the version you choose.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

Many distance purchases come with a 14-day cooling-off period, but exceptions and the seller’s identity matter, according to the Government of the Netherlands. The Government of the Netherlands also states that there is no single fixed statutory warranty period for all products; what you can expect varies by product. These are statutory consumer rights, not an additional manufacturer’s warranty.

What should I look for when it comes to product safety and CE marking?

Business.gov.nl explains that sellers of electrical and electronic equipment must ensure their products comply with the applicable European regulations. If in doubt, ask for information about the exact model and version on offer; general information about the rules does not, by itself, confirm the documentation for a specific item.