For short synth melodies on a small desk, a compact keyboard is an obvious choice. If you play longer lines or parts with both hands, compare 49-key models and allow for the extra space they need. If you’re connecting an external synthesiser, the connections are crucial: check whether MIDI DIN or CV/Gate is compatible with your equipment. Arturia, Novation and Akai Professional’s specifications explain the differences between models, but they can’t tell you how a keyboard will feel to play.
You want to play in short synth lines without a large keyboard taking up space beside your computer keyboard. Focus on the key size and overall dimensions. Arturia and Akai Professional describe compact options with slim or mini keys.
You want more physical keys for longer lines or parts played with both hands, and are happy to accommodate a larger device. Novation and Arturia list models with 49 keys.
You want to control software as well as play notes, or connect an external synth. The controls and connections you need depend on your setup; Arturia, Novation and Akai Professional describe different options for each model.
Start with your playing style and the desk space you have available. Then check that the controls and connections suit your DAW and any hardware synth you use.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Playing range and key size | Compare the number and size of the keys. Arturia lists 25 slim keys for the MiniLab 3; Novation specifies 49 semi-weighted keys for the Launchkey 49 MK4. | If I play longer lines or use both hands, I want enough keys within reach and may be willing to accommodate a larger device. Around 36% of consumers put playing range first. |
| Desk space | Measure the available space and compare it with the dimensions of the exact model. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 355 mm wide and the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as 790 mm wide. | On a small desk, I want to leave room beside my computer keyboard, so width matters as well as the number of keys. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the desk space available. |
| DAW control and software | Check the controls for your DAW version and the system requirements for any included software. Novation lists 16 pads, eight encoders and nine faders for the Launchkey 49 MK4; Arturia lists scripts for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 for FL Studio, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase and Bitwig Studio, among others. | If I want to control software instruments or my DAW while making melodies, I want to know whether the features work with my software. Around 21% of consumers give the most weight to controls and software compatibility. |
| Connecting an external synth | Compare the connections and signal requirements of both devices. Arturia lists MIDI DIN, CV/Gate and USB-C for the KeyStep 37 mk2. | If you want to control an existing hardware synth, the key thing is whether the controller has the connection that instrument requires. Around 14% of consumers prioritise hardware connectivity. |
According to Akai, the MPK Mini IV differs from the MPK Mini MK3 in several ways, including its MIDI output, USB connection and physical pitch and modulation wheels. So features of one generation won’t necessarily apply to another.
Before buying, check the full model name and generation listed in the offer.
A USB connection to a computer doesn’t necessarily mean you can control an external synth through the connection it requires. For the KeyStep 37 mk2, Arturia lists MIDI DIN and CV/Gate as well as USB-C.
Compare the connections and signal requirements of the exact controller and synth.
Depending on your existing equipment, you may need additional connection accessories.
The software for the Akai MPK Mini IV has system requirements. M-Audio says that a sustain pedal for the Keystation 49 MK3 is sold separately.
Check the software requirements and exactly what’s included in the box. If you want to use a sustain pedal, check whether it’s included in the offer.
If you want to use a sustain pedal with the Keystation 49 MK3, bear in mind that this accessory is sold separately.
The MiniLab 3 is designed for compact control; the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offers 49 keys and DAW controls; the KeyStep 37 mk2 is designed for a hybrid synth setup.
The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 has a compact 37-key keyboard; the Launchkey 49 MK4 offers 49 keys and faders for DAW use.
The MPK Mini IV is a compact option for melodies and pads when you have limited workspace.
The Keystation 49 MK3 is an option if having 49 keys matters more to you than an extensive pad or fader section.
Connect the controller using the connection specified by the manufacturer for your model, select it as the MIDI input in your music software, then load a software instrument on the recording track. Refer to your controller and DAW manuals for setup instructions, and check the system requirements for any included software.
It depends on how much playing space you need and how much room you can spare. Compare the space available with the model’s dimensions: for example, Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 355 mm wide, compared with 790 mm for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3.
Check that the software you want is included with the exact version and will work on your computer. M-Audio says that a sustain pedal for the Keystation 49 MK3 is sold separately, so check what’s included in the offer if you want to use one.
For a standard online consumer purchase, you generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, subject to legal exceptions described by the ACM. If the product is faulty, the seller is responsible for providing an appropriate remedy under the statutory guarantee. According to ACM ConsuWijzer, this guarantee in the Netherlands doesn’t have a standard fixed term of two years; what you could reasonably expect from the product is also taken into account.
Not automatically: the requirement depends on the rules that apply to the specific version. According to the European Union’s Your Europe website, CE marking is only compulsory for products covered by EU rules that require it. Check the conformity information for the specific offer; the model name alone doesn’t tell you whether a particular version complies.
