Who is this choice relevant to?

Orchestral mock-up creator

You record parts using sample libraries and want to shape dynamics and expression as you play. Spitfire Audio describes CC1 and CC11 as separate parameters; how they respond depends on your library’s own settings.

Piano-focused film composer

You often play two-handed piano themes and weigh playing range and key feel against the space an 88-key controller takes up. Native Instruments describes the S61 as having semi-weighted keys and the S88 as having hammer action.

Composer with a small desk

You want to sketch ideas alongside your computer and prefer a compact instrument, accepting a more limited playing range in return. Akai Professional specifies 37 mini keys for the MPK Mini Plus.

What should you consider when choosing?

First decide whether expressive controls, piano playing, desk space or DAW control matters most to you. The percentages indicate how consumers might divide their main buying priorities.

Consideration What to look for Who is this important for?
Orchestral expression Check whether a wheel, fader or knob can control the parameters you want in your library and DAW. Extra keys won’t replace those controls. When I record orchestral parts, I want to adjust dynamics and expression as I play. Around 33% of consumers give control over orchestral expression their top priority.
Playing range and key feel Think about whether you mainly play individual parts or full piano parts; compare the key type and measure your available space. When I often play two-handed piano parts, I want enough range and a key feel that suits my playing style. Around 27% of consumers prioritise playing range and key feel.
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, allowing for cables and room to play. Novation lists the Launchkey 61 MK4 as 895 mm wide and 264 mm deep. When my computer already takes up a lot of space, I want to know in advance how much working room a controller will leave me. Around 20% of consumers choose available desk space as their main consideration.
DAW and library control Check your DAW version, any required scripts and whether you can assign the controls to the parameters you want. When I want to control my DAW and plugins while composing, I want to know whether the features work with my software versions. Around 20% of consumers give their DAW workflow top priority.

Common buying mistakes

  • Focusing only on the number of keys

    In the orchestral libraries described by Spitfire Audio, long articulations can respond to a dynamics control rather than key velocity. A larger keyboard won’t change how they’re controlled.

    Check which MIDI messages each library needs and whether the controller has a suitable assignable wheel, fader or pedal.

  • Confusing pad aftertouch with key aftertouch

    Novation describes polyphonic aftertouch on the Launchkey MK4 pads. Native Instruments describes polyphonic aftertouch on the keys of the Kontrol S Series; these are different ways of controlling your software.

    Check where the aftertouch sensors are and whether your software responds to that signal.

  • Assuming every DAW feature works straight away

    DAW integration can depend on scripts and software versions. Arturia and Nektar specify requirements for certain DAW features and versions.

    Compare the exact controller with your DAW version and check which scripts are needed; configuration or a software update may take extra time.

  • Ordering a large keyboard without measuring your workspace

    According to Novation, the Launchkey 61 MK4 is 895 mm wide and 264 mm deep.

    Measure the available width and depth of your setup and leave room for connections and controls.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey MK4 range combines keys with controls for a supported DAW and comes in a choice of key sizes.

  • Novation lists 61 semi-weighted keys, nine faders and 16 pads for the Launchkey 61 MK4.
  • According to the specifications, polyphonic aftertouch is on the pads, not the keys. Check DAW support.

Arturia

The KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 is designed for hands-on control, with features including a mod wheel and faders.

  • Arturia specifies nine faders, a mod wheel and DAW scripts for the Essential 61 mk3.
  • Check that the scripts and software requirements suit your setup; features of the individual KeyLab mk3 range don’t automatically apply to the Essential.

Native Instruments

The Kontrol S61 and S88 are designed for buyers who want to use supported control of instruments and plugins in their workflow.

  • Native Instruments lists semi-weighted keys for the S61, hammer action for the S88 and polyphonic key aftertouch for the S Series.
  • The benefits of plugin integration depend on the software you use; also check that the instrument fits in your workspace.

M-Audio

The Hammer 88 Pro is an 88-key option for piano-focused playing, with additional DAW controls.

  • M-Audio specifies graded hammer action and DAW mapping for the Hammer 88 Pro.
  • Check separately whether the controls operate the functions you want in your orchestral library; key feel alone won’t answer that question.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option for sketching parts on a smaller keyboard.

  • Akai Professional specifies 37 mini keys, pitch and mod wheels, and eight pads.
  • The smaller keyboard offers less range at your fingertips if you play a lot of piano parts across a wide range.

Nektar

The Impact LX mk3 range offers DAW controls in a choice of key sizes.

  • Nektar lists models with 25, 49, 61 and 88 keys, as well as features including eight faders.
  • Some DAWs have specific minimum version requirements; check the version you use.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller need to make its own sounds to write film music?

No, not if you use instrument software on your computer: a MIDI controller sends notes and other control data to that software. You’ll still need the DAW and instrument software you want to use; the controller doesn’t replace them.

Why doesn’t playing harder always change the sound of long orchestral notes?

According to Spitfire Audio, long articulations in the libraries described respond to the dynamics control rather than key velocity; short articulations respond to velocity by default. Check the settings for your own patch and, if needed, assign a wheel or fader.

How do you set up faders and other MIDI controls?

Follow the connection and DAW instructions for your exact model. Arturia describes separate DAW scripts and settings for the KeyLab Essential mk3. Spitfire Audio explains how to assign a MIDI control to a plugin parameter.

How long do you have to change your mind, and what warranty rights apply when buying online in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, many online purchases from a business come with a 14-day cooling-off period, although exceptions apply and the type of seller matters. You’re also entitled to a product that is fit for purpose. The Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period; if there’s a fault, contact the seller.

Is CE marking compulsory for a MIDI controller?

It depends on the rules that apply to the specific product. According to the European Commission, CE marking is only required for products covered by EU rules that prescribe it. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) includes electrical products in its general overview, but that doesn’t mean every USB-powered controller falls under the specific low-voltage rules. Check the product information and applicable conformity information for the specific offer.