Who is this for?

Melody player

You want to play a lead or melody with your fingers, so key range and key size are your main considerations. Novation and Arturia specify mini keys on various models; check which version suits your playing style.

DAW producer

You write music in software and want to control clips or sound parameters while you play. Which features work depends on the controller, your DAW and its settings.

Producer with limited workspace

You share a table in your loft with a computer and other equipment. Compare the dimensions of the exact controller with the space available, and weigh them against the playing range you want.

What should you look for when choosing?

First decide whether you mainly want to play notes, control software or sequence patterns. Then check that the controller and your other equipment will fit in your workspace.

What to consider What to look for Who is this most important for?
Playing melodies Compare the number and size of the keys with the range you need while playing. Arturia specifies 25 keys for the MiniLab 3; Novation lists 37 mini keys for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4. If I mainly want to play melodies on keys, I look at range and key size; around 36% of consumers prioritise entering melodies.
DAW control Check compatibility with your DAW and version, and find out which features need to be assigned manually via MIDI. Ableton explains how to select a MIDI input for a software instrument in Live. If you want to control software features while writing, integration and settings are the main things to consider; around 29% of consumers prioritise DAW control.
Workspace Measure the available desk space and compare it with the dimensions of the exact version. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 355 × 220 × 50 mm; don’t confuse these with the dimensions of another model. If my computer and monitoring equipment are also on the same desk, I want to know how much space the complete setup will take up; workspace is the top priority for around 21% of consumers.
Rhythms and patterns Decide whether you want pads for drums or clips, or need a sequencer for patterns. Novation lists 16 pads for the Launchkey Mini 37; Arturia describes the KeyStep Pro as having four independent polyphonic sequencer tracks. If I want to enter drums or recurring patterns directly, I look for pads or sequencing that suit the way I work; around 14% of consumers start with rhythm and pattern control.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming a standard MIDI controller is a standalone keyboard

    A MIDI controller sends notes, but you’ll also need a software instrument and working audio output to hear them through a DAW. The MPK Mini MK3 is not the same version as the MPK Mini Play MK3, for which Akai describes built-in sounds.

    Before buying, decide whether you want to play through software or need sound without a computer, and check the full model name.

  • Assuming all 37-key models are the same size

    The Launchkey Mini 37 and Launchkey 37 are different versions. The stated dimensions for the Launchkey 37 do not apply to the Mini 37.

    Compare the external dimensions and key size of the exact model you’re considering with the space you have available.

  • Choosing extra pads or connections without a use for them

    A controller with sequencing and connections for external equipment is designed for a different way of working from simply playing melody notes into a DAW.

    Think about the tasks you actually want to perform, then choose between keys, pad control and external sequencing.

Brands to compare

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 combines a mini keyboard with pads and controls for music software.

  • Novation specifies 37 mini keys, 16 pads and eight encoders for this model.
  • Check that the features work with your DAW and version; don’t confuse this model with the larger Launchkey 37.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact model with 25 keys and controls; the KeyStep Pro is designed for sequencing and external instruments.

  • Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 355 × 220 × 50 mm, with eight encoders and four faders.
  • The narrower key range won’t suit every playing style. The more advanced sequencer features of the KeyStep Pro are most relevant if you use them in your workflow.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini MK3 combines keys and pads; the MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate version.

  • Akai specifies eight velocity-sensitive pads for the MPK Mini MK3.
  • Akai describes built-in sounds and a speaker for the MPK Mini Play MK3. Don’t assume the MPK Mini MK3 has these features.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini combines 25 mini keys with transport controls, pads and a footswitch connection.

  • Nektar specifies 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys and transport buttons for the Impact LX Mini.
  • Check the documentation for the exact model and your software version; information about other Impact models won’t necessarily apply to every LX Mini configuration.

Joybuy product selection

This Joybuy selection is an electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI functionality; measure how much space your setup will take up in your workspace before you buy.

Electronic keyboard with 61 keys, MIDI controller functionality and speakers

Electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI controller functionality, black

An option if you’re considering a keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI functionality; check that it will fit in your workspace before you buy.

The product name lists a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Do I need anything else to hear the melody through a MIDI controller?

With a standard keyboard controller, you need a sound source, such as a software instrument in your DAW, and working audio output. Ableton explains how to set up a software instrument on a MIDI track in Live. Akai describes built-in sounds for the separate MPK Mini Play MK3; don’t assume the MPK Mini MK3 has them too.

What should I check if my controller is connected but I can’t hear anything?

Check that your DAW is using the correct MIDI input, that the track contains a software instrument, and that monitoring and audio output are set up. Ableton gives these steps for Live; menus may differ in other DAWs.

What should I check about software when choosing a controller?

Check that the software you want to use is compatible with your computer and DAW version, and find out whether registration is needed for any bundled software. Arturia publishes specific system requirements for the MiniLab 3; check the requirements for the exact version you’re considering.

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

According to the Dutch government, online purchases generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions. ACM ConsuWijzer also explains that the seller is responsible for the statutory guarantee; the appropriate solution depends on the circumstances.