If you use two computer monitors, choose a controller based on your DAW and how you want to enter drum patterns: the second view comes from the software, not the controller. If you want two screens on the device itself, Maschine MK3 is designed for use with a computer, while Maschine+ is for standalone use. In either case, check the software, MIDI settings and any licence requirements.
You want to spread your DAW across two monitors and use a controller to enter drum patterns. Ableton explains how to use different views in two windows; also check which controller functions your software supports.
You want to see information on the hardware while choosing sounds and editing patterns. Native Instruments describes Maschine MK3 as having built-in screens, and Maschine+ as a standalone device; they’re designed for different ways of working.
You programme drum steps for equipment outside your computer. Arturia and Novation describe sequencer features for external equipment; check that the connections and synchronisation suit your setup.
First, decide whether you mean two computer monitors or two screens on the controller itself. That distinction determines which features you need.
Best suited to: When you want to spread your DAW views across two screens and enter patterns using a controller.
Consider: The second view is a software feature; controller operation varies by DAW and setup.
Best suited to: When you want to view sounds and pattern information on the hardware; Maschine MK3 is designed for use with a computer, while Maschine+ is for standalone use.
Consider: With Maschine+, check which licence you need for the features and updates you want to use.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| DAW control across two monitors | Check your DAW’s second-window feature, as well as its supported controller mode and MIDI settings. | If I want to spread my DAW across two monitors and control patterns from a controller, I check that both work together. Around 29% of consumers prioritise DAW control and compatibility with two computer monitors. |
| Built-in screens | Check whether the device itself has screens, whether it needs a computer and which software is required for the features you want. | If I want to view sounds and patterns on the controller, I look at its screens and whether standalone use is important. For around 29% of consumers, two built-in screens are the top priority. |
| Steps for external equipment | Compare the sequencer, MIDI connections, cables, channels and synchronisation with your equipment. | If I want to send drum steps to external equipment, I check the connections and synchronisation in advance. Around 21% of consumers prioritise sequencing external hardware. |
| Dynamics for finger drumming | Check the exact model’s velocity sensitivity and whether your software uses MIDI notes and velocity values. | If I want to play rhythms with my fingers, I want to know whether the pads and my software can capture my playing accurately. Around 14% of consumers choose mainly for finger drumming. |
| Simple USB pad control | Check the USB connection, computer compatibility and pad mapping; don’t assume it can sequence on its own. | If I mainly want to use physical pads with a computer, I may not need screens or a standalone sequencer. Around 7% of consumers give simple USB pad control top priority. |
Two computer monitors are driven by DAW software, while screens on a controller are part of the hardware. A controller that suits one meaning may not suit the other.
First decide which screens you mean, then compare the relevant software or hardware option.
The described Launchpad Pro MK3 control with Ableton Live and Akai Fire’s FL Studio-focused workflow are specific to those combinations. These features aren’t automatically available with other DAWs or controllers.
Check the exact model, your software version and the supported control mode before choosing.
MIDI mapping may take extra setup time; check what settings your setup requires.
According to Novation, the Launchpad Pro MK3 can sequence connected hardware via MIDI. Native Instruments describes Maschine+ as a standalone production device; these aren’t the same capabilities.
Check whether you only want to send MIDI patterns, or also want to create and play sounds without a computer.
External MIDI equipment may need suitable cables or other components; check the connections on your equipment.
Native Instruments names certain earlier Maschine generations for which software support has ended. The manufacturer lists MK3 and Plus as supported models; be sure to check the exact generation.
Before buying, check the software transfer process and the current compatibility of the model on offer.
Maschine MK3 is designed for computer-based production with built-in screens; Maschine+ is intended for production without a computer.
Launchpad Pro MK3 is designed for grid sequencing and controlling software such as Ableton Live, and can also control MIDI equipment.
BeatStep Pro is designed for drum sequencing and controlling external MIDI or analogue equipment.
MPD218 is designed for pad control via a computer; Fire is a grid controller for an FL Studio workflow.
No, a controller with built-in screens isn’t necessary for that. Ableton describes a second software window that can be spread across two monitors; separately, check whether the controller can operate the features you want to use in your DAW.
Connect the Launchpad Pro MK3 via USB, then set up the Control Surface and MIDI ports in Live as described by Novation for your software version. Set the synchronisation direction you want: either have Live follow the controller or the controller follow Live.
It depends on what you mean by working independently. Native Instruments describes Maschine+ as a standalone device; Novation says the Launchpad Pro MK3’s sequencer can control external hardware via MIDI without a computer, as long as the device is powered and connected correctly. That doesn’t mean both devices offer the same sound-production capabilities.
According to Native Instruments’ support information, a valid Maschine 3 licence is required for the Maschine 3 features described for Maschine+. Before relying on these features, check which licence is included with the model on offer and linked to your account.
For eligible distance purchases, the Dutch government says you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period; its guidance on distance selling includes purchases from a business. Products must also be of satisfactory quality. The Dutch government says there is no fixed statutory warranty period; if a product is faulty, the seller must offer a solution.
