Who is this for?

Beginner sound designer with a small desk

Wants to learn to control notes and parameters in a software synth without taking up unnecessary desk space.

Melody player who also shapes sounds

Wants to play parts and adjust settings, and is weighing up extra playing space against the width of their desk.

Software user who mainly wants to control parameters

Already enters notes another way and wants physical controls for synth or DAW functions, without an additional keyboard.

What should you look for when choosing?

Compact keyboard controller

Choose this option: if you want to play notes and control parameters at a desk with limited space. The Arturia MiniLab 3 and Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 each have 25 keys.

Bear in mind: the playing range is limited, and the software bundle and DAW integration vary by model.

More room to play

Choose this option: if melodies and chords need a wider playing range. The Novation Launchkey 37 MK4 has 37 keys, while the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys.

Bear in mind: Novation lists the Launchkey 37 as 557 mm wide, while Arturia lists the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as 790 mm wide. Measure your workspace first.

Control surface without a keyboard

Choose this option: if you already enter notes another way and mainly want physical controls for software functions. Korg describes the nanoKONTROL2 as a controller for assigning software parameters.

Bear in mind: you won’t get piano keys, and you may need to assign the controls to functions in your software.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Parameter control Check whether your software supports the MIDI assignments you want, and which controls you can configure. If I want to adjust synth parameters using physical controls while practising, direct control comes first; around 36% of consumers rank parameter control as their top priority.
Playing range Compare the number of keys and their size, and check that the keyboard suits the parts you want to play. If I want to play melodies and chords across more keys, playing range matters more than the smallest setup; around 29% of consumers give the keyboard their top priority.
Desk space Check the device’s width and depth, and leave room for your computer and other equipment. If my workspace is limited, I want to know in advance how much room the controller takes up; around 21% of consumers prioritise size over extra keys or controls.
Getting started Check whether the exact model produces sound on its own or requires software, and what computer, connection and bundle you’ll need. I want to know what equipment and software I need for a working setup before I get started; around 14% of consumers make that clarity their top priority.

Common buying pitfalls

  • Assuming a MIDI keyboard is a standalone synthesiser

    A MIDI controller can send messages to software without producing sound itself. Akai says the MPK Mini MK3 controls sound through software on a computer.

    Before buying, check the full signal chain you plan to use: the controller, a suitable sound source and any necessary software.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    A controller without keys can offer plenty of hands-on parameter control, while larger keyboard models take up more desk space.

    Decide whether playing notes or controlling parameters matters more. Then compare both the layout of the controls and the device’s dimensions.

  • Assuming software bundles and DAW integration are the same

    Arturia lists different versions of Analog Lab with the MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential 49 mk3. The level of integration can also vary by model.

    Check the bundle and supported integration for the exact model and DAW you use.

Brands to consider

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 offers compact control with keys, while the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 gives you a wider playing range and more controls.

  • Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as having 25 keys, eight encoders, four faders and Analog Lab Intro.
  • According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys and nine faders.
  • The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is listed as 790 mm wide. Check that the model and software bundle suit your setup.

Novation

Launchkey models combine keys with controls, while the Launch Control XL 3 is a control surface without a keyboard.

  • Novation lists both the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Launchkey 37 MK4 as having eight encoders and 16 pads.
  • According to Novation, the Launch Control XL 3 has 24 encoders and eight faders.
  • Choose the right key size and check that the DAW integration for your chosen model works with your software.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini MK3 is a compact keyboard controller for anyone who also wants to use pads.

  • Akai describes the MPK Mini MK3 as having eight velocity-sensitive pads.
  • According to Akai, the MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound itself: you’ll need software on a computer to make sound.

Korg

The nanoKONTROL2 is a slim control surface for anyone who already enters notes another way.

  • Korg specifies eight knobs and eight faders, and describes how to assign software synth parameters.
  • The nanoKONTROL2 has no keyboard; assign the controls to software functions where needed.

Joybuy products

The Joybuy selection below focuses on a 61-key keyboard with MIDI functionality. It’s for anyone who values playing range over a compact setup.

Black 61-key keyboard and MIDI controller

Black 61-key keyboard and MIDI controller

Suitable for anyone who wants more room to play and to use MIDI with a computer. Bear in mind the space taken up by a 61-key keyboard.

61 keys; USB-MIDI.

The product listing mentions built-in speakers, a metronome and a recording function.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller produce sound by itself?

Not always. Akai says the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to software on a computer rather than producing sound itself. Check the exact model and work out what sound source you’ll need.

How do I start assigning knobs for sound design?

First check that your software recognises the controller, then assign the parameters you want to the controls. For example, Korg explains how to assign the nanoKONTROL2’s faders and knobs to software functions. The steps may vary between programmes.

What if the controller doesn’t work properly after purchase?

If you buy as a consumer in the Netherlands, you’re entitled to a product that meets the required standards. According to the Dutch government, the seller must provide a solution if a product is faulty. There is no fixed statutory warranty period covering all products in the Netherlands.

Can I return a controller bought online?

In many cases, you have a 14-day cooling-off period for distance purchases, according to the Dutch government. Check the terms for your specific purchase. The government’s guidance says that buying online from a private seller does not count as a distance purchase.

Which product safety rules apply in the Netherlands?

Applicable EU rules may apply to electrical and electronic equipment, including rules on electromagnetic compatibility. According to the European Commission, CE marking is only mandatory when specific applicable EU rules require it. So check the exact product and the rules that apply to it.