Which keyboard is right for you?

Musicians with limited desk space

If you switch between computer work and sketching out short synth ideas at your standing desk, measure how much room you’ll really have left for the keyboard and cables.

Melody players looking for a wider range

If you want to play longer melodies or parts with both hands, compare both the number of keys and their size.

Producers with a permanent setup

If you want to use controls in your DAW or connect an external synth, check that your software supports them and that your equipment has the right physical connections.

What should you consider when choosing?

Start with the desk space available and the playing range you need, then check the controls and connections for your own setup.

What to consider What to look for when buying Who is this important for?
Space and setup Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Novation’s Launchkey 37 MK4 manual gives its dimensions as 557 × 251 mm. If I want to keep using my computer controls alongside the keyboard, a small footprint comes first. Around 36% of consumers say desk space is their top priority when choosing.
Playing range and key size Compare 25 or 37 keys, and mini or full-size keys; check the dimensions of the exact model. The number of keys alone doesn’t tell you how large they are. For longer phrases, I want more notes within easy reach, even if the keyboard takes up more space. Around 29% of consumers prioritise playing range and key size.
DAW controls Check that your DAW and its version support the controls you want, and find out what configuration is needed. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 has encoders and pads. If I want to control software functions while playing, I want to know whether the controls work with my DAW. Around 21% of consumers make DAW controls their top priority.
Connecting an external synth Compare the keyboard’s MIDI output with the synth’s input, and check which type of cable or adapter you’ll need. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as having a five-pin DIN output; Novation describes the Launchkey Mini 37 as having a TRS Type-A output. If I want to control external equipment directly, the physical connection needs to be compatible with both devices. Around 14% of consumers make this connection their top priority.

Common buying mistakes

  • Looking only at the number of keys

    A 37-key model with mini keys and one with 37 full-size keys don’t have the same key size or space requirements.

    Compare the exact key size and the manufacturer’s dimensions with the space available on your desk.

  • Confusing USB MIDI with a suitable connection for an external synth

    A five-pin DIN output and a TRS Type-A output are different physical connections.

    Check the connections on both devices and the type of cable required before you order.

    You may need a suitable MIDI cable or adapter to connect them.

  • Assuming every control works with every DAW straight away

    Extra controls may depend on software support and the configuration you choose.

    Check the support and setup steps for your DAW and its version.

Brands worth considering

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact 25-key controller with controls and a five-pin MIDI output, making it worth considering if desk space and connections for external equipment matter to you.

  • Arturia lists dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm and controls for DAWs and software.
  • With 25 keys, it offers a narrower playing range than a 37-key model. Check that it works with your software.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 and Launchkey 37 MK4 combine 37 keys with DAW controls. The first model has mini keys, while the second has full-size keys.

  • Novation lists encoders and pads for both models.
  • According to the manual, the Launchkey 37 MK4 measures 557 × 251 mm. The Mini 37 has a TRS Type-A MIDI output, so check that it connects to your external equipment.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is a compact keyboard for sketching out short musical ideas and controlling them with pads.

  • Akai lists USB-C, a MIDI output, and pitch and modulation wheels among its features.
  • Not everyone finds mini keys comfortable to play, so consider the key size based on your own preferences.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini has 32 mini keys and controls that can be configured for supported DAW functions.

  • M-Audio describes automatic mapping for various DAWs.
  • Select the right configuration in your DAW and check that it suits your software.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol M32 has 32 compact keys and is particularly relevant if you use Komplete or NKS instruments.

  • According to Native Instruments, the eight touch-sensitive knobs are pre-mapped for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • That mapping won’t necessarily work with every other plug-in.

Joybuy products

This selection includes two digital keyboards with 61 keys and USB MIDI. They’re larger instruments than compact MIDI controllers, so check that you have enough desk space and that the connection suits your setup.

MLS-931 digital keyboard, black, 61 keys

MLS-931 digital keyboard, black, 61 keys

A 61-key model to consider if you want more keys within easy reach and have room for a larger instrument.

The product name lists weighted keys, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, USB MIDI, speakers and a headphone socket.

View at Joybuy
Electronic keyboard, black, 61 keys

Electronic keyboard, black, 61 keys

A 61-key keyboard with USB MIDI for anyone looking for a larger keyboard and wanting to check that it connects to their software.

The product information lists a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard produce synth sounds by itself?

A standard MIDI controller isn’t a standalone sound source. You use it to control a software instrument or a connected synthesiser, for example. Check that you already have a suitable sound source and the connection you need.

How do I set up the keyboard with my DAW?

Select the keyboard as a MIDI input in your software and configure any specific DAW controls. Being able to play notes via MIDI doesn’t automatically mean that every control will perform the function you want.

What should I check when using it at a standing desk?

Check the positions of your keyboard, computer keyboard and cables at your working height, and change your posture during long sessions. Arboportaal covers ergonomics and static working postures; this isn’t a product-specific assessment.

What costs or rights should I be aware of after buying online in the Netherlands?

Before ordering, check what else you’ll need for your setup, such as a suitable MIDI cable or software. According to the Dutch government, distance purchases usually come with a 14-day cooling-off period. If a product is faulty, the seller must provide a solution; there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands that applies to all products.

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