Choose a keyboard with enough range and the controls you’ll actually use while composing: expressive key control, readily assignable knobs and sliders, or a more compact design. Check that it integrates with your DAW, too, and set up your workspace to reduce light falling on your computer screen. Product specifications don’t prove that a controller display is easy to read in direct sunlight.
If you play parts yourself, compare the keyboard’s range and expressive features with what your software instruments actually use. Polyphonic aftertouch on certain models is only useful if the patch and software you use respond to it.
Faders and encoders may suit a workflow where you adjust instrument or mixer parameters as you play. Check which features are supported by your DAW and software version.
Consider both your screen setup and the space available on your desk. Arboportaal recommends positioning your workstation so that your line of sight is parallel to the window.
First decide what you’ll be playing and which controls you want to use while composing. Then measure the space available and check DAW support, as well as how visible any displays will be in your lighting conditions.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard range and expression | Compare the key size and range with the parts you’ll be playing. Check that your instrument patch responds to the expressive MIDI features you want. | If I want to play parts myself, I focus on range and playing feel; around 31% of consumers prioritise playing range and expression. |
| DAW and sound control | Check support for your DAW version, any scripts you may need, and the assignment of your preferred parameters. | If you want to control software and sound parameters from the keyboard as you play, suitable assignments are particularly useful; around 25% of consumers prioritise this type of control. |
| Light and screen readability | Check for glare on your computer screen and test any important controller display in similar lighting. Arboportaal recommends positioning your line of sight parallel to the window. | If light affects my workspace, I want to be able to assess the screens from my usual seated position; around 25% of consumers prioritise practical controls for a bright workspace beside a window. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth. Novation lists dimensions of 730 × 264 mm for the Launchkey 49 MK4; Arturia lists 790 × 240 mm for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3. | If I share my desk with other equipment, a suitable layout matters more than having extra keys; around 19% of consumers prioritise keeping desk space free. |
Having a screen or display doesn’t tell you how easy it is to read in your lighting conditions. Model specifications don’t provide comparable measurements of readability in direct sunlight.
Set up your computer workstation first, then assess any essential controller display in lighting that’s similar to the conditions you compose in.
More advanced control may depend on scripts, software versions and MIDI assignments. A control won’t automatically work with the feature you want to adjust.
Check the documentation for your exact DAW and version, and decide in advance which parameters you want to assign.
Allow extra time to configure assignments and any scripts you may need.
Key size, expressive features and physical dimensions vary between models. A model with more keys won’t necessarily fit your desk or suit the parts you play.
Compare the parts you play with the keyboard’s feel, and measure the free space on your desk, including room for connections.
According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus sends MIDI messages to software and doesn’t make sound itself.
Before buying, check your complete setup: controller, computer, sound source and audio output.
If you don’t already have a suitable sound source and audio output, you may need to buy them separately.
The Launchkey 49 MK4 combines keys, pads and physical DAW controls.
The KeyLab Essential mk3 range combines keyboard controls with Analog Lab and DAW controls; the model you choose determines the range and dimensions.
The Kontrol S-Series MK3 is worth considering if your workflow uses Kontakt or Komplete Kontrol and expressive keyboard control is important to you.
The Panorama T4 and T6 are designed for anyone who wants to control plug-ins and their DAW from a keyboard.
The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option for short parts and hands-on control.
The Joybuy products below are 61-key keyboards whose product titles mention USB-MIDI or a MIDI controller function. Before buying, check that the MIDI connection and implementation work with your DAW.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a 61-key instrument with USB-MIDI; check that its MIDI functionality works with your DAW.
The product title lists 61 keys, USB-MIDI, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen and a three-level learning function. The set also includes a stand and bench.
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Consider this model if you’re looking for a keyboard with 61 weighted keys and USB-MIDI; check that the connection and DAW support suit your workflow.
The product title lists 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, speakers, a headphone socket and a music rest.
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One to look into if you’re after a keyboard listed as having a MIDI controller function; check that its MIDI functionality works with your software.
The product title lists 61 keys, a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music rest.
Not the standard USB-MIDI controller discussed here: according to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus sends MIDI messages to software rather than making sound itself. Check which computer, software instruments and audio output you already have.
Arboportaal recommends positioning your computer workstation so that your line of sight is parallel to the window. This is advice for your workspace, not proof that a controller display is easy to read in direct sunlight.
Select the correct controller and MIDI ports, and check whether a suitable script and the required software version are available for your DAW. Arturia lists support for the KeyLab Essential mk3 script in Ableton Live from version 11.3.3.
According to the Dutch Government, the seller must provide a solution if a product doesn’t meet reasonable expectations; a manufacturer’s warranty or an extended warranty is in addition to your statutory rights. So check what extra cover an extended warranty provides.
Applicable EU conformity rules and CE marking requirements may apply to electrical and electronic equipment. The European Commission explains that manufacturers must identify the applicable rules and, where CE marking is required, carry out a conformity assessment and provide an EU declaration of conformity. Check this for the exact model; CE marking doesn’t prove that a display is easy to read in sunlight.
