Start by deciding how you want to hear the sound: a standard USB MIDI controller sends performance data to software and doesn’t produce synth sounds itself. Then compare the number of keys within easy reach with the space on your desk, and check that your DAW and any external synth support the controls and connections you need. Headphones keep software audio away from shared speakers, but they don’t guarantee that the keys and pads themselves are quiet.
You want to play a software synth without sending sound through shared speakers. Akai Professional describes a standard MIDI controller as a device that sends MIDI messages to software, not as a standalone sound source. So check how you can listen to the audio through headphones.
You need enough keys within easy reach, but also need to fit the instrument alongside your workspace. Compare the number of keys and the dimensions of the exact model with the space available on your desk.
You want to play melodies and control software instruments using keys, pads or dials. Which extra features work depends on the software you choose and your settings, so check compatibility with your DAW.
First decide how you’ll listen to the sound, then choose how many keys you need within easy reach and measure the available space. Finally, check that the controls you want work with your DAW or external synth.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Sound for your colleagues | Check whether your computer, audio device or standalone synth has a suitable headphone output. If keeping noise to a minimum is important, assess the physical sound of the keys and pads separately. | If I use a software synth, I don’t want to play audio through shared speakers, and I want to know whether the keys themselves are audible. Around 33% of consumers say quiet playback is their top priority. |
| Melody range within easy reach | Compare 25, 32 and 37 keys, and consider whether you want to change octaves often while playing a melody. | When I play melodies, I want enough notes under my fingers without having to change octaves too often. Around 27% of consumers say having a melody range within easy reach is their top priority. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. Allow room for cables and your usual work equipment too. | If I share my workspace, the keyboard needs to fit and may need to be put away after use. Around 27% of consumers say available desk space is their top priority. |
| DAW and synth control | Check your DAW and its version, the available integration or MIDI settings, and whether you really want to use pads, chord functions or encoders. | If I also want to control software instruments from the device, the features I need must work with my software. Around 13% of consumers say direct DAW and synth control is their top priority. |
A standard controller sends MIDI messages, but it won’t produce the sound of the synth you play by itself. You’ll need a software instrument and a working audio output, unless you choose a model with its own sounds.
Before you buy, decide whether you’ll use a software synth or also want to play built-in sounds without a computer. The Akai MPK Mini IV and MPK Mini Play MK3 are different models; don’t assume that the Play MK3 features are included on the standard Mini IV.
Headphones keep the audible audio with you, but they don’t prove that the keys or pads are mechanically quiet.
Avoid using speakers in a shared workspace. If it’s a deciding factor for you, assess the physical sound of the keys and pads separately.
A USB connection to a computer doesn’t automatically mean you can connect the controller directly to every hardware synth.
Compare the controller’s output with the input and power requirements of your exact synth. According to Arturia, the Arturia MiniLab 3 also has a five-pin MIDI output.
The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Mini 37 MK4 pair compact keys with pads and DAW controls.
The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with software controls and a five-pin MIDI output.
The MPK Mini IV is a compact controller for software and hardware, while the separate MPK Mini Play MK3 has built-in sounds.
The SE25 is designed for a small, straightforward mobile MIDI keyboard setup.
The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 offers a key range between the 25- and 37-key models discussed here.
The Joybuy options below are 61-key keyboards with MIDI and built-in sounds. Both have a headphone socket, so you can listen without using the built-in speakers.
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Built-in sounds and a headphone socket give you a way to listen without using the speakers in a shared workspace.
61 keys; 300 built-in sounds and 300 rhythms; USB MIDI; headphone socket.
In the office, use the headphone socket instead of the built-in speakers.
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Built-in sounds and a headphone socket give you a way to listen without using the speakers in a shared workspace.
61 keys; 500 built-in sounds; USB MIDI; recording function; headphone socket; metronome.
In the office, use the headphone socket instead of the built-in speakers.
A standard USB MIDI controller sends MIDI messages and doesn’t produce sound itself. Akai describes this for the MPK Mini MK3. Select the MIDI input in your DAW, load a software instrument, and check the audio output and headphones.
Not necessarily. Arturia describes different MIDI and control ports for the MiniLab 3; you may need to enable the right port or set up DAW integration. Check the instructions for your exact controller and software version.
No. The Dutch government says there’s no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands. You’re entitled to a product that works as it should, and you can contact the seller if there’s a problem. Any manufacturer’s warranty is in addition to this.
According to the Dutch government, purchases made remotely from a business often come with a 14-day cooling-off period, but this doesn’t apply to every transaction. Before you buy, check who the seller is and which returns policy applies.
Electrical and electronic equipment may be subject to EU CE marking rules; which rules apply depends on the specific product. According to Your Europe, the manufacturer is responsible for compliance. A CE mark alone isn’t independent proof that an individual offer is safe or compliant, so check the product information and any safety warnings.
