Pianist using software instruments
You mainly want to play piano parts using a virtual piano. The keyboard action and range will help you decide which instrument suits your playing.
Who is this choice relevant to?
Player in a shared home study
You want to listen through headphones, while also considering audible key or pedal noise and possible delays in your audio setup.
Player with limited desk space
You’re weighing the range you need against the available width, or mainly want controls for virtual instruments in your existing software setup.
What should you consider when choosing?
88-key weighted MIDI controller
A good fit if: you play piano parts across a full keyboard using software.
Keep in mind: the space it requires and the separate audio setup needed for software sound.
Shorter weighted MIDI keyboard
A good fit if: you want hammer action but have less space available.
Keep in mind: it has a smaller range than an 88-key keyboard.
Semi-weighted keyboard for software control
A good fit if: control over your DAW and virtual instruments matters more to you than hammer action.
Keep in mind: semi-weighted keys have a different action from hammer-action keys.
Digital piano with computer connectivity
A good fit if: you sometimes want to play without a computer, as well as use MIDI software.
Keep in mind: MIDI alone doesn’t determine where the virtual piano’s sound is played.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Piano feel and range | Compare the action of the exact model and decide whether the number of keys suits the parts you play. | If I mainly play piano parts, I want the touch and range to suit the way I play. Around 33% of consumers give piano feel and range top priority. |
| Private listening and responsiveness | Check where the software sound comes out and how the audio settings affect latency. | When I play with headphones, I want to hear the software sound clearly and enjoy a responsive feel under my fingers. Around 27% of consumers prioritise private listening and responsiveness. |
| Size for your home study | Measure the available width and compare the dimensions of the exact models. | If my workspace is limited, I take the available space into account without losing sight of the range I need. Around 20% of consumers give size top priority. |
| Software control and expression | Check the pedal inputs and compatibility with your software and operating system. | If I also want to control virtual instruments, I look for connections and features that work with my software. Around 20% of consumers prioritise software control and expression. |
Common pitfalls
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Assuming that 88 keys means hammer action
The number of keys and the action are separate features. According to Novation, the Launchkey 88 MK4 has semi-weighted keys; M-Audio describes the Hammer 88 as having hammer action.
Check both features for the exact model.
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Expecting every MIDI controller to have a headphone socket
A MIDI controller controls software, but doesn’t produce the sound of a virtual piano by itself. Studiologic lists an integrated audio interface and headphone socket for the SL73 MK2; this doesn’t automatically apply to other models.
Before buying, map out the connections between the keyboard, computer, piano software, audio output and headphones.
Depending on your setup, you may also need a suitable audio output, cable, software or interface.
-
Assuming quiet playing means a silent home study
Headphones are designed for private listening, but they won’t automatically block mechanical key or pedal noise. These sounds haven’t been measured on a comparable basis for the models mentioned.
Try the exact keyboard and pedal in a similarly quiet room, and assess the audio setup separately.
Brands to compare
M-Audio
M-Audio’s Hammer 88 is a piano-focused controller, while the Hammer 88 Pro adds more controls for software.
- M-Audio lists USB-MIDI and inputs for sustain, expression and soft pedals on the Hammer 88.
- According to the manufacturer, the Hammer 88 Pro also has 88 hammer-action keys. The extra controls don’t automatically make it a better choice if you only play piano.
Studiologic
According to Studiologic, the SL73 MK2 and SL88 MK2 combine hammer action with 73 and 88 keys respectively.
- Studiologic lists an integrated audio interface and headphone socket for the MK2 models.
- The SL73 MK2 has fewer keys than the SL88 MK2. Make sure you’re looking at the specifications for the MK2 version.
Arturia
The KeyLab 88 mk3 combines a weighted Fatar TP/110 keyboard with controls for DAWs and instruments.
- Arturia lists USB-C, MIDI DIN and pedal inputs.
- The description of the playing experience comes from the manufacturer. Check whether the extra controls suit your software and setup.
Native Instruments
The Kontrol S88 MK3 is an 88-key hammer-action controller designed to control compatible software instruments.
- The Native Instruments manual lists fully weighted keys and polyphonic aftertouch.
- Feature support may depend on the software you use; the specification doesn’t prove that every virtual piano will benefit from it.
Novation
The Launchkey 88 MK4 is designed for anyone looking for 88 keys and DAW controls without requiring hammer action.
- Novation lists 88 semi-weighted keys, pads, faders and encoders.
- Semi-weighted keys don’t have the same action as hammer-action keys if that touch is essential to you.
Joybuy products
These product picks focus on digital pianos and 61-key keyboards for use with computer-based piano music.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
The headphone socket provides an output for private practice; USB-MIDI is listed for connecting to music software.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, speakers and a music stand. With 61 keys, its range is smaller than that of a full 88-key keyboard.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
The product name mentions a MIDI controller function for controlling music software.
The product name also lists a recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand. With 61 keys, its range is smaller than that of a full 88-key keyboard.
Frequently asked questions
Does the sound of a virtual piano come directly from every MIDI controller?
No. A controller operates software; you also need to set up a virtual piano sound and an audio output. Studiologic lists an integrated audio interface and headphone socket for the SL73 MK2. This doesn’t mean the instrument produces piano sound by itself, without software.
What can you do if the piano sound comes after you play a note?
Check the audio settings in your software or interface. Focusrite explains that a smaller buffer reduces latency, but gives the computer less time to process audio. Try a setting that works well with your setup.
Do you need to buy a sustain pedal separately?
That depends on the exact model and package. M-Audio lists a sustain input for the Hammer 88, but that alone doesn’t tell you which pedal is included. Also check pedal compatibility and software support.
What rights do you have when buying online from a business in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch Government, distance purchases generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period. You’re also entitled to a product that meets reasonable standards; the Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period. If a product is faulty, contact the seller to resolve the issue. These rights don’t tell you whether a specific model meets your technical needs.