Who is this choice relevant to?

Virtual piano player

You want a full piano range, a suitable playing feel and pedal control, and have room for a larger instrument. Kawai and Studiologic describe models with 88 keys and hammer action.

Player beside a bright window

You want to use your controller and virtual piano comfortably in daylight. Arboportaal recommends positioning your line of sight parallel to the window when working at a screen.

Home studio musician

You switch between piano parts and software controls, weighing up portability, key action and assignable controls. Arturia and M-Audio describe models offering different combinations of these features.

What should you look for?

As well as key feel, consider where you’ll position the controller by the window, its controls and the connections your virtual piano needs.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Piano range and touch response Check the exact key action and adjustable touch response; compare the width and weight too. If I mainly play virtual piano parts, I want a range and touch response that suit the way I play. Around 33% of consumers give piano range and key feel their top priority.
Controls in daylight Assess the display, labels and buttons in similar lighting; check whether you can position your computer screen parallel to the window. When I play beside a bright window, I want to be able to read the displays and controls in my setup clearly. Around 27% of consumers put readability first.
Space and portability Measure the available width and depth, including space for the stand, cables and computer screen. If my workspace is tight or I want to move the controller, its physical footprint is a key consideration. Around 20% of consumers give space and portability their top priority.
Pedals and software Check the pedal inputs, included pedals, connections and compatibility with your computer and virtual piano software. If I want to use my existing pedals and software, the connections and functions need to work with them. Around 20% of consumers put a setup that works together first.

Common buying mistakes

  • Confusing ‘88 keys’ with hammer action

    A full range alone doesn’t tell you what type of key action an instrument has. Arturia specifies semi-weighted keys for the KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 and hammer action for the KeyLab 88 mk3.

    Check the full model name and the stated key action before choosing based on the number of keys.

  • Assuming an LCD is easy to read in sunlight

    A display on the controller doesn’t tell you how easy it will be to read beside your window. Arboportaal highlights window light as a factor to consider when working at a screen.

    Assess the controls in similar lighting, and plan where to position your computer screen and any blinds or other sun protection.

  • Assuming a pedal input means a pedal is included

    An input tells you what you can connect, not which accessories come in the box. Kawai lists an F-30H triple pedal unit for the VPC1.

    Check which pedals are included with each exact model and whether they work with your virtual piano software.

    Depending on the model, you may need to buy a compatible pedal separately.

Brands to compare

Kawai

Kawai has specifically positioned the VPC1 as a controller for virtual pianos.

  • Kawai lists 88 wooden keys, adjustable touch curves and an F-30H triple pedal unit.
  • The stated weight is 29.5 kg, so consider the space it will take up and how you’ll move it.

Studiologic

The SL88 mk2 and SL88 GT mk2 combine 88 keys with different types of hammer action.

  • Studiologic lists TP/110 action, a 2.8-inch LCD and a weight of 13.3 kg for the SL88 mk2. The SL88 GT mk2 has wooden TP/400 action.
  • The models also differ in weight: Studiologic lists the SL88 GT mk2 at 21 kg. Check the full model name and accessory bundle.

Arturia

The KeyLab 88 mk3 is designed for hammer action and studio control, while the KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 is a semi-weighted alternative.

  • Arturia describes the KeyLab 88 mk3 as having fully weighted hammer action. The brand lists 88 semi-weighted keys for the Essential 88 mk3.
  • According to Arturia, the Essential 88 mk3 weighs 8.2 kg and has a 2.5-inch LCD. That alone doesn’t tell you how easy it is to read in bright light by a window.

M-Audio

The Hammer 88 Pro is an 88-key controller for players looking for hammer action and software controls.

  • M-Audio specifies graded hammer action and USB power.
  • Assess the controls in your own lighting conditions; the model specifications don’t include a readability test beside a bright window.

Roland

The A-88MKII is a piano-focused controller with hammer action and pedal inputs.

  • Roland lists a sustain input and two assignable pedal inputs.
  • When connecting to a device with a Lightning connector as described by Roland, a separate power supply is needed. Check that the connection is compatible with your device.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Will a display on the controller solve the problem of a bright window?

Not necessarily. If you’re dealing with reflections, Arboportaal recommends positioning your line of sight parallel to the window and using suitable sun protection. A controller’s screen size doesn’t tell you how easy its display will be to read in your lighting conditions.

Do I need to configure my virtual piano for the controller?

Check that your computer recognises the controller as a MIDI input, then adjust the key response and pedal functions in your software. Also consider the power supply and connection: Roland states that the A-88MKII isn’t powered via the USB bus when connected using the Lightning connection described.

Does every 88-key controller come with a triple piano pedal?

No. Don’t assume it based on the number of keys or the presence of a pedal input. Kawai lists an F-30H triple pedal unit for the VPC1; check the bundle for the exact model you want to buy.

What is the cooling-off period for online purchases in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, when you buy from a business at a distance, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period. There are exceptions, and online purchases from a private seller aren’t covered by the same rules. Check the terms that apply to your purchase.

Where can I dispose of an old electric controller in the Netherlands?

For household equipment, the Dutch government describes options including a recycling centre and a take-back scheme when you buy a similar appliance. Under this scheme, the shop must take back your old, similar appliance free of charge; the government also describes a return option for online purchases.