If you want to play and adjust sounds at the same time, choose a controller based on its keyboard range, the space available on your desk and the controls you can assign to your software. If you mainly build layers from recorded clips, a grid controller may better suit your workflow. A standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound on its own, so you’ll also need a suitable sound source and audio output.
You play chords and want to adjust several sound layers or effects as you perform. Ableton explains how parallel instrument chains in Live can receive the same input; you’ll need to assign your controller’s controls to the functions you want to use.
You’re weighing up a compact keyboard and hands-on controls against the range and playing feel of larger keys. The Arturia MiniLab 3 and Novation Launchkey 37 MK4 differ in their key layouts and dimensions, among other things.
You build a pad by triggering recorded parts or clips and want direct control from a grid. This is most relevant if your software and workflow support the clip control you need; Novation and Ableton describe using Launchpad grids to trigger clips.
Choose this if: you have limited desk space and want to adjust parameters as you play.
Bear in mind: the keyboard has a smaller range; also check that your DAW supports the assignments you need.
Choose this if: you’d rather play pad chords on keys than programme them note by note.
Bear in mind: the dimensions and key size; extra connections matter mainly if you also use external equipment.
Choose this if: you mainly build layers by triggering clips in compatible software.
Bear in mind: a grid doesn’t replace a traditional keyboard for playing chords.
| Priority | What should you look for when buying? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Adjusting sound layers | Check whether encoders or sliders can be assigned to the parameters you need, and how your DAW controls instruments. Ableton explains parallel instrument chains in Live; other DAWs may work differently. | If I want to adjust several layers while holding a chord, assignable controls are important. Around 33% of consumers prioritise sound control. |
| Desk space | Measure the space available and compare the dimensions of the exact model. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Novation lists the Launchkey 37 MK4 at 557 × 251 × 79 mm. | If my desk also needs to accommodate other equipment, I want to know what will actually fit. Around 27% of consumers prioritise desk space. |
| Playing chords | Compare the number and size of the keys with the chords you want to play. Check separately whether you can connect a pedal if you want to use one. | If I want to play pad chords directly, keyboard range and playing feel matter more than extra pads. Around 20% of consumers prioritise playing chords directly. |
| Software and clip workflow | Check the exact DAW, version and feature you want to use. Novation describes the Launchpad Mini as having 64 pads for clip control in Ableton Live and Logic Pro. | If I mainly work with clips in my existing software, I want to know whether the controller supports that workflow. Around 20% of consumers prioritise their software and clip workflow. |
A standard MIDI controller operates software or equipment; it doesn’t produce the sound of your pad by itself.
Before buying, check which computer or other sound source you’ll need and how you’ll listen to the audio.
A clip grid and a keyboard are designed for different ways of playing; a grid doesn’t replace a traditional keyboard for chords.
Choose a grid if you mainly trigger clips, and keys if you want to play pad chords.
Assignments and software features can vary by model, DAW and software version.
Check the exact model name, software version and control functions you need in the manual before buying.
The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with controls for playing and adjusting software sounds.
The Launchkey 37 MK4 offers keys for playing chords and controlling a DAW; the Launchpad Mini is a separate grid with no keyboard.
The MPK Mini IV is a portable keyboard controller; the MPK Mini Plus has a 37-mini-key layout and connections for external equipment.
According to Nektar, the Impact LX Mini combines keys, pads and controls for use with DAW software.
A standard MIDI controller operates sound software or other equipment, but doesn’t produce sound by itself. You’ll need a suitable computer or other sound source and audio output; check the features of the exact model.
If you use Ableton Live 12, you can place instruments in parallel chains in an Instrument Rack; according to Ableton, they receive the same input simultaneously. Then assign the parameters you want to control while playing to your controller’s controls. For another DAW, check its guidance on how to do this.
Check the connections and software support for the exact model. Clean the exterior according to its manual and follow the instructions for disconnecting the device.
For distance purchases, a 14-day cooling-off period applies in many cases, with some exceptions, according to the Dutch government. If a product doesn’t meet statutory requirements, the seller is your point of contact; there is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands.
The relevant European safety and EMC rules apply to electrical and electronic equipment. Where required by these rules, the manufacturer must ensure the product has CE marking and an EU declaration of conformity, as explained by Ondernemersplein, the Dutch government’s business information portal. A model’s specifications don’t prove that an individual product offered for sale meets these requirements.
