Melody writer with limited desk space
If you want to play ideas on keys without setting up a full-size keyboard, compare the dimensions and key range. Novation User Guides and Arturia list the dimensions of the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and MiniLab 3.
Who are these controllers for?
Producer creating clips and beats
If you want to combine melody notes with rhythms or clip control, compare keyboards with pads against a pad grid. Novation’s documentation for Launchpad X covers a grid and Note Mode; the controls also depend on the DAW you use.
Producer working from a DAW
If you want to use knobs or sliders while composing, check which functions work with your DAW and setup. Arturia and M-Audio describe their DAW controls and the setup steps involved.
What should you look for when choosing?
Compact keyboard with pads
A good fit if: You play melodies on keys and also want to trigger drums or clips. Novation specifies 25 mini keys and 16 pads for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4.
Keep in mind: A small keyboard gives you less room to play across a wide range of notes at once; check the dimensions too.
Keyboard with hands-on parameter controls
A good fit if: You also want to adjust settings while writing. Arturia specifies 25 slim keys, eight encoders and four faders for the MiniLab 3.
Keep in mind: Its stated depth of 220 mm takes up desk space; DAW integration may require configuration.
Pad grid without piano keys
A good fit if: You’d rather control notes, drums and clips using a grid. Novation describes an 8×8 grid with a Note Mode for Launchpad X.
Keep in mind: The playing layout differs from piano keys; the documented option to switch note layouts is specific to Ableton Live.
Keyboard with 32 mini keys
A good fit if: You’d rather have more keys than the smallest possible keyboard. M-Audio specifies 32 mini keys for the Oxygen Pro Mini.
Keep in mind: Check that the dimensions and DAW setup suit your workspace and the way you work.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Desk space | Measure both the available width and depth. Novation lists 339 × 177 mm for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; Arturia lists 355 × 220 mm for the MiniLab 3. | If my controller needs to fit on a small desk alongside my computer and other equipment, I measure the available space first. Around 31% of consumers say desk space is their main purchasing concern. |
| Playing melodies | Compare mini keys with a note grid, and decide whether 25 or 32 keys suit the way you play. Novation documents a Note Mode on the Launchpad X grid. | If I mainly want to play melodies on keys, I consider the key range; a grid means playing in a different way. Around 31% of consumers say playing melodies is their top priority. |
| DAW control | Check support for your DAW and version, and whether you’ll need a script or manual MIDI mapping. Arturia describes separate setup steps for DAW integration. | If I want to control parameters from my controller while composing, I check that it works with my DAW and the functions I want. Around 23% of consumers say DAW control is their main purchasing concern. |
| Pads and rhythms | Compare what you want to control: Akai specifies eight pads for the MPK Mini MK3, Novation specifies 16 pads for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, and the Launchpad X has an 8×8 grid. | If I want to trigger beats or clips using pads, I look for a layout that suits the way I work in my DAW. Around 15% of consumers say pads and rhythms are their top priority. |
Pitfalls to avoid when buying
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Assuming a MIDI keyboard makes sound on its own
A MIDI controller sends notes to other equipment or software and doesn’t necessarily make any sound itself. Akai specifically confirms that the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to software rather than producing sound independently.
Before buying, check how you want to hear the notes and which sound software is included with the version you’ve chosen.
To hear sound from the MPK Mini MK3, you’ll need suitable sound software or another sound source. Check what’s included with the version you’re considering.
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Comparing only the controller’s width
Depth matters on a small desk too: Novation lists 177 mm for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, while Arturia lists 220 mm for the MiniLab 3.
Measure the available width and depth, allowing room for cables and your computer keyboard.
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Assuming every DAW function works straight away
DAW controls may depend on the version and configuration. The documented option to switch note layouts on the Launchpad X is specific to Ableton Live.
Check the documentation for your DAW version and find out whether you need to set up scripts or assign MIDI functions manually.
Brands worth considering
Novation
Novation offers both compact keyboards with mini keys and pads, and controllers with a pad grid.
- Novation specifies 25 mini keys, 16 pads, and chord and scale functions for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4.
- The Launchpad X has no piano keys. The Live functions described don’t necessarily apply to other DAWs.
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with hands-on controls and a MIDI output for external equipment.
- Arturia specifies 25 slim keys, eight encoders, four faders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
- Its stated depth is 220 mm. The DAW integration described has software and setup requirements.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini MK3 combines keys and pads for anyone who wants to play melody notes and beats from a single controller.
- Akai specifies eight velocity-sensitive pads.
- Akai says the MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound on its own; you’ll need connected sound software or another sound source to hear anything.
M-Audio
The Oxygen Pro Mini is an option with mini keys and controls designed for music production software.
- M-Audio specifies 32 mini keys, USB power and DAW control.
- According to M-Audio, automatic mapping may require selection and configuration in your DAW; check this for your version.
Korg
The microKEY2-25 is a compact USB keyboard for anyone who values piano keys over an integrated pad grid.
- Korg specifies 25 mini keys and dimensions of 395 × 131 × 52 mm for the microKEY-25.
- The specifications for this version don’t list any drum pads.
Joybuy products
Related products will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI controller make sound on its own?
Not necessarily. Akai specifically confirms that the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to software rather than making sound on its own. Check this for each model and make sure you have a suitable sound source.
What should I check if notes are coming through but I can’t hear anything?
Check the MIDI input, instrument track and audio output in your DAW. For the Launchpad X in Ableton Live, Novation says to enable record arm and monitoring; Arturia describes separate MIDI port settings for the MiniLab 3.
What connections and setup does the MiniLab 3 need?
Arturia describes MIDI communication with the computer over USB-C, plus a separate 5-pin MIDI output for external equipment. The manufacturer recommends connecting the computer directly via USB; if you use a hub, check the power supply and DAW settings.
What warranty and returns rights apply to an online purchase in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch Government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period; if a product is faulty, contact the seller. For online purchases from a business, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, although exceptions apply.
What should I check for EU product compliance?
The Dutch Government states that electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must carry a CE mark. Check that the version being offered meets the applicable product requirements; the product name alone doesn’t confirm this.