If you work with a computer and DAW, a USB-powered MIDI controller can save you needing a separate mains adapter for the controller, provided your computer has the right USB port. Choose keys for melodies and chords, or a pad grid if you mainly want to control clips. If you also want to make audible patterns without a computer, consider a standalone groovebox such as the Novation Circuit Tracks.
You already have a computer and want to add keys, drums and controls without a separate mains adapter for your controller. Check that your computer has a suitable USB port and that your DAW works with the controls. Novation, Arturia and Akai describe USB-powered controller models.
You build backing tracks with clips and rhythms and want to control them using pads; a traditional keyboard is less important. Novation describes the Launchpad X as designed for controlling clips and scenes in Ableton Live.
You want to create and play patterns outside a DAW too. In that case, look at a standalone groovebox rather than assuming a regular MIDI controller produces sound on its own. Novation describes Circuit Tracks as a groovebox that works without a computer.
First, check how the controller is powered and which port your computer has available. Then choose controls that suit the way you build backing tracks.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Power without an extra adapter | Check how the exact model is powered, which connection and cable it needs, and whether your computer can power the controller. | If I don't want to use a separate plug socket for my controller, I'll check my computer's USB ports first. Around 36% of consumers give top priority to power without an extra adapter. |
| Controlling clips and drums | Check that the pad and clip functions work with your DAW; don't assume every application offers the same integration. | If I mainly want to launch clips and enter rhythms using pads, pad-focused controls are relevant. Around 29% of consumers prioritise clip and drum controls. |
| Keys for playing parts | Compare the number and size of the keys with your playing style and the space available on your desk. | If I prefer to play in chords and melodies, I'll look for a keyboard and check whether it fits on my desk. Around 21% of consumers give top priority to playing in parts. |
| Working without a computer | Decide whether you only want to input MIDI or also need sounds, patterns and playback on a standalone device. | If I want to create and play backing-track patterns without a computer, I'll look for a standalone groovebox rather than just a controller. Around 14% of consumers prioritise standalone playback. |
The connection and the way a device is powered are not the same thing. Akai says the MPK Mini IV can be powered via a computer's USB 3.0 port or a USB-C mains adapter. Arturia gives separate advice on using USB hubs with the MiniLab 3.
Before ordering, compare the power requirements for the exact model with your computer's ports and cables.
A regular MIDI controller operates a sound source but doesn't produce sound itself. By contrast, Novation describes Circuit Tracks as a standalone groovebox with built-in synth and drum tracks.
Decide in advance whether you want to control a DAW or create and play patterns without a computer. If it's the latter, compare grooveboxes.
The Launchpad X is designed for clips and pads, while a keyboard gives you keys for playing in melodies and chords. A larger keyboard may also take up more desk space.
First choose the task you need the device for most, then check DAW support and the space you have available.
Novation describes compact USB-powered controllers for keys, pads and clip control, as well as the standalone Circuit Tracks groovebox.
Arturia describes the MiniLab 3 as a compact, USB-powered MIDI controller with keys, pads and controls.
Akai describes the MPK Mini IV as a controller with keys, pads, transport controls and DAW mapping.
M-Audio describes the Oxygen Pro Mini as a USB-powered MIDI controller with 32 mini keys.
You won't need a separate adapter for the controller if you power a model via the USB computer connection specified by the manufacturer. Your computer and any other equipment will still need their own power, so check the connection and cable requirements for your setup.
A regular MIDI keyboard doesn't make sound itself; it controls software or a synthesiser, for example. Select a sound source in your DAW and check the MIDI input and audio output.
First, check whether you can connect the controller directly. Arturia recommends a direct connection for the MiniLab 3. If you need a hub, the brand recommends one with Power Delivery or its own power supply. A hub with its own adapter may mean you'll need another plug socket.
When you buy as a consumer in the Netherlands, you have a legal right to a product that meets reasonable expectations. If it develops a fault, you should ask the seller to put things right. The Dutch government states that the Netherlands has no fixed, general warranty period for this.
The NVWA states that electrical products covered by the relevant rules must carry the required CE marking; check this for the specific product on offer. When you buy at a distance, the seller must provide information about matters including the product and the cooling-off period. According to the Dutch government, this period is 14 days in many cases.
