Who is a MIDI controller suitable for?

Beginner who wants to make music quietly

Wants to enter notes in a home studio and listen to the results through headphones. It’s useful to know that MIDI input and audio output are separate functions.

Beatmaker with limited desk space

Wants to combine compact keys with pads and controls, without taking up more desk space than necessary.

Beginner learning to play chords

Wants to practise melodies and chords on keys, and work out how much keyboard space will fit on the available desk.

What should you look for when choosing one?

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Listening quietly Which software or sound source produces the sound? Where do you plug in your headphones? If I want to practise in a quiet room, I want to hear the sound through headphones. Around 28% of consumers give quiet listening top priority.
Getting started with your DAW Does the exact model support your DAW? What software is included, and how do you activate it? As a beginner, I want to enter notes and use my music production software without unnecessary installation problems. Around 22% of consumers prioritise an easy set-up with their own DAW.
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the version you’re considering. If I need to make room on my desk for a computer and learning materials too, I want to know in advance whether the controller will fit. Around 17% of consumers say available desk space is the deciding factor.
Melodies and chords Compare the number of keys and check whether they’re mini or standard-sized. If I want to practise parts directly on the keyboard, I pay attention to the number and size of the keys. Around 17% of consumers prioritise key size over pads or the smallest possible casing.
Beats with pads Does the exact version have pads? Can you use them in your software for the sounds or clips you want? If I want to enter beats using individual pads, I look for a model with controls that work with my software. Around 16% of consumers put beat-making pads first.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard that produces sound on its own

    A standard MIDI controller sends performance data; the software or another sound source produces the sound. For quiet listening, the audio output must also be able to connect to suitable headphones.

    Before buying, work out where the sound will be produced and where you’ll plug in your headphones.

  • Confusing the Launchkey Mini 37 with the Launchkey 37 MK4

    Novation lists mini keys for the Mini 37 and standard-sized keys for the Launchkey 37 MK4.

    Check the full model name and key size; the number 37 alone doesn’t make the versions the same.

  • Assuming software integration works automatically with every DAW

    Presets and integration files can vary depending on the model and the software you use.

    Check the instructions for your DAW and software version, and find out what registration and activation steps are needed. The SE25 integration described by Nektar requires registration and downloads.

Relevant brands and models

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with pads and controls for anyone who wants to control software instruments.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys, eight encoders and four faders.
  • Consider whether the limited number of keys suits what you want to play, and check the current software bundle and activation requirements.

Novation

The Launchkey range includes compact versions as well as models with more room to play and DAW controls.

  • Novation lists 37 standard-sized keys for the Launchkey 37 MK4 and 37 mini keys for the Launchkey Mini 37.
  • The stated DAW integration is a manufacturer specification; check that the features work with your software.

Akai Professional

The MPK mini mk3 is a compact option with keys and pads. The MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate model for anyone looking for built-in sounds too.

  • According to Akai, the MPK mini mk3 has eight pads.
  • The MPK mini mk3 doesn’t produce sound on its own. The MPK Mini Play MK3 is a different version, so check which features you need.

M-Audio

The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is a compact USB MIDI controller for anyone who prioritises entering notes over extensive pad controls.

  • M-Audio lists 32 velocity-sensitive mini keys and controls for functions including octave and volume.
  • Check the current licence terms for the software that the manufacturer says is included with the model.

Nektar

The SE25 is a compact keyboard controller for a cramped workspace, with DAW controls for the programmes listed by Nektar.

  • Nektar lists 25 mini keys and six control buttons.
  • To use the DAW integration described by Nektar, you’ll need to register the device and download files; check that your DAW is supported.

Joybuy product

A Joybuy pick for anyone looking for a keyboard with MIDI functionality.

Black electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI controller functionality

Electronic keyboard with 61 keys, black

An option if you’re looking for a keyboard with MIDI controller functionality and built-in speakers. If you want to practise quietly, check that the exact version has a suitable headphone socket.

The product name lists 61 keys, speakers, a recording function, a metronome and a music stand. Before buying, check that the MIDI connection and controls work with your DAW.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Can I plug my headphones straight into a standard MIDI controller to hear my DAW?

Don’t assume you can: a standard MIDI controller sends performance data and doesn’t produce DAW audio on its own. Select the appropriate audio output in your DAW and plug your headphones into a suitable output on your computer or audio interface.

What should I check if the keys respond but I can’t hear anything?

Check that MIDI input is set up, a software instrument can produce sound and the correct audio output is selected. Ableton describes MIDI ports and audio output as separate settings; menu names may differ in other DAWs.

Can I use the included music production software straight away?

That depends on the exact software bundle and its activation requirements. Akai describes a registration process for the software included with the MPK mini mk3; for your model, also check the system requirements and which software is actually included.

What rights do I have when buying online in the Netherlands?

For eligible distance purchases from a business, the Dutch government generally provides a 14-day cooling-off period, with some exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that meets the required standards. According to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period; if a product is faulty, contact the seller.