Who is a compact MIDI controller for?

Expressive lead player

Wants to control pitch bend and modulation directly during a solo, and compares touch strips, a joystick and wheels on specific models from Novation, Akai Professional and Nektar.

Player with limited desk space

Needs a keyboard that fits their practice space and weighs up 25 versus 37 keys, along with the stated dimensions. Novation and Korg publish these details for the models mentioned.

Player with a separate synth

Wants to connect the controller to existing equipment, so checks which USB, MIDI or CV/Gate connections the exact model has. Akai Professional and Arturia describe these connection options for specific models.

What should you look for when choosing one?

First decide whether you’ll use a computer, a hardware synth or built-in sounds as your sound source. Then compare the controls, playing range and connections that suit your set-up.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Expressive controls Compare the touch strips, joystick and wheels on the exact model; check that your synth receives the MIDI data being sent. If I want to control pitch bend and modulation directly during a synth solo, I need controls that suit my playing style. Around 31% of consumers prioritise expressive controls.
Playing range and space Measure the available width and depth, and take the number of keys and key size into account. In a small practice space, I want enough keys to play without the keyboard taking over my workspace. Around 25% of consumers prioritise playing range and space.
Connecting to your equipment Compare the inputs and outputs on the controller and synth or computer; also check which cable and power supply you’ll need. If I want to use my existing software or hardware synth, the connection needs to match the ports on both devices. Around 25% of consumers consider connectivity the most important factor.
Sound while practising Decide which device will produce the sound and how you’ll listen to it; check whether the model has built-in sounds. If I want to practise without a computer, I’ll need a suitable sound source and a way to listen. Around 19% of consumers prioritise having sound straight away or a complete practice set-up.

Common buying mistakes

  • Expecting every MIDI controller to make its own sound

    MIDI sends performance data; it isn’t audio. According to Akai, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 controls software to produce sound, while the MPK Mini Play MK3 is a different version with built-in sounds.

    Before buying, decide which device will produce the sound and how you want to listen to it.

  • Assuming USB will work with any hardware synth

    Connections vary from model to model. A USB port isn’t automatically the right way to connect directly to a separate synth.

    Compare the connections on both devices and check which cable and power supply your set-up needs.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    The number of keys and the overall dimensions are separate considerations: a keyboard with more keys may take up more desk space, while key size and controls also affect how it feels to play.

    Measure your playing space and assess the key size and controls against the lead phrases you want to play.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is a compact option for a USB-powered set-up; the Mini 37 has more keys.

  • According to Novation, the Mini 25 MK4 measures 339 × 177 mm and has two touch strips for pitch and modulation.
  • If you want wheels, check the controls on the exact version: touch strips are not the same as pitch and modulation wheels.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is designed for a software-focused set-up; the KeyStep 37 mk2 offers connections for a hybrid or hardware set-up.

  • Arturia lists MIDI via USB-C and a 5-pin MIDI output for the MiniLab 3; the KeyStep 37 mk2 has MIDI DIN, USB-C and CV/Gate, among other connections.
  • Check that the connections on the version you choose match those on your synth and computer.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus has 37 keys and wheels; the MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate version with built-in sounds.

  • According to Akai, the Mini Plus has MIDI/CV/Gate and separate pitch and modulation wheels. The Play MK3 has built-in sounds and a speaker.
  • Don’t confuse the MPK Mini Play MK3 with the MPK Mini MK3: according to Akai, the latter doesn’t produce sound on its own.

Korg

The microKEY2-37 is a USB-powered controller with 37 mini keys for use with a computer-based synth.

  • Korg lists pitch and modulation wheels and dimensions of 565 × 139 mm for the 37-key version.
  • The listed connections are USB Type B and an assignable switch input; don’t assume it has a MIDI DIN output.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini combines 25 mini keys with a joystick and assignable buttons.

  • Nektar describes a joystick for pitch bend and modulation, as well as an input for a footswitch.
  • Check whether you need a pedal and whether its connection is compatible; the documentation specifies an adapter for the input.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI controller produce its own synth sound?

Not necessarily: MIDI contains performance data and isn’t audio. According to Akai, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 controls software to produce sound, while the separate MPK Mini Play MK3 has built-in sounds and a speaker.

What should I check when connecting a MiniLab 3?

Follow Arturia’s set-up instructions for the specific model and check that your computer, MIDI port and DAW audio settings suit your set-up. For this model, Arturia recommends connecting it directly to the computer via USB.

Who can help if a device bought in the Netherlands doesn’t work properly?

For a consumer purchase, the Dutch government says the seller must offer a solution if the product doesn’t meet reasonable expectations. The Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period that applies to all products; a manufacturer’s warranty is in addition to your statutory rights.

What product safety rules apply to a MIDI controller in the Netherlands?

Applicable European product rules apply to electrical and electronic devices placed on the market in the Netherlands. The requirements depend in part on the device and its design; if in doubt, check the documentation for the exact model.