Who is a compact controller for?

Improviser with limited setup space

You want a playable keyboard that you can set up and put away without needing a permanent floor stand. So compare the dimensions of the whole instrument, not just the number of keys.

Player of continuous passages

You want to switch octaves less often or avoid interrupting passages while recording. Compare the range and key size with the space you actually have available.

Recorder using a pedal or extra MIDI equipment

You want to control sustain as you play or connect other MIDI equipment. Check the pedal and MIDI connections on the exact model.

What should you look for when choosing one?

First measure the space where you plan to put the instrument. Then decide how many keys you need to play at once, and finally check that the connections suit your playing and recording setup.

What to consider What to look for Who this matters to
Will the instrument fit? Measure the available space and compare the full width and depth of the exact model. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm and the Mini 37 as 478 × 177 mm. If space is limited, I want the keyboard to fit on my desk without needing a permanent floor setup. Around 36% of consumers with limited setup space say this is their main concern when buying.
Playing range Decide which parts you want to play with your left and right hands at the same time. Compare the number of keys, and check separately whether they are mini or standard-size keys. When I play a continuous phrase, I want to switch octaves less often. Around 29% of consumers say playing range is their main concern when buying.
Recording with software For the exact model, check the USB connection, compatibility with your software and any conditions attached to included software. When I want to record improvisations in my own software, I want to know what sound source and recording workflow I’ll need. Around 21% of consumers who prioritise their recording workflow say this is their main concern when buying.
Pedal and MIDI Check whether the model has a pedal input or sustain button, which pedal types it supports and whether the MIDI output is compatible with your equipment. If I want to control sustain with my foot or connect other MIDI equipment, I need connections that suit my setup. Around 14% of consumers say pedal or hardware connections are their main concern when buying.

Avoiding common buying mistakes

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Key size and the casing also affect how much space a controller takes up. The Novation Mini 37 and Launchkey 37 MK4 have different dimensions.

    Measure the available space and compare the width, depth and key size of the exact model.

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard that makes sound on its own

    A standard USB MIDI controller sends performance data to software or other equipment, but does not produce the sound you want by itself.

    Before buying, check which sound source and recording software you plan to use.

  • Confusing a sustain button with a pedal input

    The 25-key and 37-key versions of the Korg microKEY2 have different sustain controls. A sustain button also doesn’t confirm that you can connect a separate pedal.

    Check the connections on the exact model and which pedal types it supports.

Brands and models to compare

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 and Mini 37 MK4 combine compact keys with controls for music software.

  • Novation lists the Mini 25 as measuring 339 × 177 mm and the Mini 37 as 478 × 177 mm.
  • The Mini 37 has a sustain input and a TRS Type-A MIDI output.
  • The TRS Type-A output is not the same connection as a five-pin DIN port, so check what your equipment needs.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 offers a compact keyboard with controls for music software, while the MiniLab 37 is a version with more keys.

  • Arturia specifies that the MiniLab 3 has 25 slim keys, an assignable pedal input and a five-pin MIDI output.
  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 37 has 37 slim keys.
  • The features listed do not necessarily apply to both models, so check the version you’re considering.

Korg

The microKEY2 series comes in 25-key, 37-key and larger versions for those who mainly want a keyboard.

  • According to Korg, versions with 37 keys or more have an assignable input for a damper pedal.
  • The 25-key version has a sustain key instead, so check which version you’re choosing.

M-Audio

The Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is a USB MIDI controller with 32 mini keys.

  • M-Audio lists 32 velocity-sensitive mini keys and a sustain button.
  • A sustain button doesn’t mean you can connect a separate sustain pedal.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV combines a compact keyboard with pads and controls for music software.

  • Akai specifies 25 velocity-sensitive keys for the MPK Mini IV.
  • The MPK Mini IV and the older MK3 differ in features including their USB connections and controls, so compare the right generation.

Joybuy product selection

This product selection features a 61-key keyboard with MIDI and recording functions, for those who value playing range more than the most compact setup possible.

Black electronic keyboard, 61 keys

Black electronic keyboard, 61 keys

The 61-key version is a good fit if you value playing range more than having the most compact setup possible.

Features a MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Can I record my improvisation as audio using only a MIDI controller?

Not with a standard controller that has no sound generation of its own: it sends MIDI data to software or other equipment that makes the sound. Check which sound source and recording software you plan to use.

Do I always need a foot pedal for sustain?

No. According to their manufacturers, the 25-key Korg microKEY2 and the M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 have a sustain button. If you want to control sustain with your foot, check whether your chosen version has a pedal input and which pedal types it supports.

What are my rights regarding returns and guarantees in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, online purchases from a business usually come with a 14-day cooling-off period. There is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands; if a product is faulty, contact the seller.

What product rules apply to an electronic controller?

According to information from the Dutch government, electrical and electronic equipment must comply with the applicable European rules. Where required, the manufacturer must apply a CE marking and draw up an EU declaration of conformity. A CE marking is not an independent quality mark; the applicable requirements depend on the model.

Where can I take an old controller when I replace it?

The Dutch government describes a take-back scheme for old electrical appliances from private households when buying a similar appliance, including online purchases. You can also take it to a local council collection point.