Who are these controllers for?

People who share a desk

They want to play in a melody quickly, then clear the workspace. That makes the controller’s size and how easily it can be put away key considerations.

People who play melodies

They want enough keys within easy reach, so they compare a 25-key mini keyboard with a 37-key version.

People who control synths and software

They want to control software parameters or an external synthesiser while playing, so they look at the controls, DAW integration and MIDI outputs.

What should you look for when choosing?

First measure the available desk space, then decide how many keys you need within easy reach and finally check that the controls and connections suit your setup.

What to consider What should you look for? Who is this important for?
Desk space and storage Measure the available width and depth, including space for the cable. Korg lists the nanoKEY2 at 325 × 83 × 16 mm; Novation gives the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 a depth of 177 mm. If I want to clear the shared workspace quickly, a shallow design matters more than extra controls. Around 36% of consumers say desk space and storage are their main purchase concern.
Keys within easy reach Compare the number of keys and the width of the exact model. Novation lists 25 mini keys and a width of 339 mm for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, compared with 37 mini keys and 478 mm for the Mini 37 MK4. I want to play melodies across more keys without constantly switching octaves. Around 29% of consumers prioritise having more keys within easy reach.
Synth and DAW control Check which controls the model has and whether its DAW features work with your software. Arturia lists eight encoders and four faders for the MiniLab 3; Novation lists eight encoders and sixteen velocity-sensitive pads for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4. If I want to control parameters or software functions while playing, I look at the available controls and how they integrate with my DAW. Around 21% of consumers prioritise these controls.
Connection to an external synthesiser Compare the MIDI output with your synthesiser’s input and check which cable type and power supply you need. Arturia lists a five-pin DIN MIDI output for the MiniLab 3; Novation describes MIDI output for the Launchkey MK4 using USB power and a MIDI cable. I want to control my external synthesiser, so I check in advance that the two devices are compatible. Around 14% of consumers say this connection is their main purchase concern.

Common pitfalls

  • Confusing a MIDI keyboard with a synthesiser that makes its own sound

    Akai states that the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to software on a computer and does not make sound by itself.

    Before buying, decide where the synth sound will come from and how you’ll listen to it at the shared desk.

  • Looking only at the number of keys

    Controllers with the same number of keys can differ in depth and controls. For example, the Korg nanoKEY2 has a listed depth of 83 mm, while the Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 measures 177 mm deep.

    Measure the available space, including room for the cable, and compare the layout and controls of the exact models.

  • Assuming every MIDI output uses the same cable

    According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has a five-pin DIN MIDI output. Check that the connection matches the one on your external synthesiser.

    Compare the connections on both devices and check which cable type and power supply you need.

    Depending on the connections, you may need a compatible MIDI cable or adapter.

Brands to compare

Korg

The nanoKEY2 is an option if a shallow desk footprint is your priority.

  • Korg lists 25 keys and dimensions of 325 × 83 × 16 mm.
  • Controls include pitch, modulation and sustain buttons. Compare the feel of the keys and the extra controls you want with your own preferences.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini MK4 is available with 25 or 37 mini keys and offers DAW control.

  • Novation lists eight encoders and sixteen pads for the Mini 25 MK4. The Mini 37 MK4 has 37 mini keys.
  • According to the listed dimensions, the Mini 37 MK4 is wider than the Mini 25 MK4, so measure the available desk space.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines 25 mini keys with controls and a MIDI output for external equipment.

  • Arturia lists eight encoders, four faders and a five-pin MIDI output.
  • The listed depth is 220 mm. Check that it will fit on a shallow shared desk and that its software integration suits your DAW.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini MK3 is a compact USB MIDI option for anyone who wants to use pads as well as play melodies.

  • Akai lists eight pads.
  • According to Akai, the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI to software on a computer and does not make sound by itself.

Nektar

The SE25 is a compact keyboard with 25 mini keys and basic controls.

  • Nektar lists six control buttons and DAW integration.
  • For the integration mentioned, Nektar lists registration and installation files. Check which steps apply to your DAW and model.

MIDI controllers at Joybuy

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller make its own synth sound?

Not always. Akai states that the MPK Mini MK3 does not make sound by itself, but sends MIDI to software on a computer. Check for each model whether you’ll need a software synthesiser or an external sound source.

How do I connect a controller to my DAW?

Check the USB connection, then select the correct MIDI input in your DAW. For the Nektar SE25, Nektar states that specific DAW integration requires registration and downloaded integration files; this is not a general installation requirement for all controllers.

How can I be considerate of colleagues at a shared desk?

With a software setup, you can listen through your computer’s or audio interface’s audio output instead of shared speakers. The available product specifications do not provide comparable measurements of mechanical key noise, so don’t assume that any particular model is quiet.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

For a qualifying distance purchase from a business, the Dutch government generally provides a 14-day cooling-off period; an online purchase from a private seller does not fall under this description. You also have a statutory guarantee that goods must be of satisfactory quality, with no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. For your specific order, check who the seller is and what returns conditions apply.