Chord player with a permanent setup
You want to play chord voicings with both hands and have room for a larger keyboard. Compare the number of keys with the space you have available, and check whether you need a pedal input.
Who is this buying guide for?
Student who takes their keyboard with them
You regularly put your controller away or take it between classrooms. In that case, a compact size may matter more than having lots of keys within easy reach.
Creator of evolving sound layers
You want to control software instruments or effects as you play. Check that the keyboard’s controls work with your DAW and setup.
What should you look for when choosing?
First, check how you’ll create and listen to the sound. Then compare the playing space offered by the keyboard with what you can set up and take with you. Finally, check which controls and connections are supported by your software and equipment.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Sound source and connection | Check which software or compatible external sound source you’ll use, and how MIDI and audio will be connected. Ableton also explains how to set up MIDI input and monitoring in Ableton Live. | If I first want to know what will make the chords audible and how the equipment connects, a working sound setup comes first; this is the top buying priority for around 36% of consumers. |
| Number of keys | Compare 25 or 37 compact keys with 49 keys, and check whether the chords and bass notes you want to play together will fit on the keyboard. | If I want to play chord voicings with both hands straight away, I’m mainly looking for enough keys within reach; around 29% of consumers prioritise this playing space. |
| Transport and storage | Compare the stated dimensions and weight with your desk space, storage space and preferred way of getting around. | If I need to set up, put away and take my keyboard with me regularly, a manageable size matters most to me; around 21% of consumers prioritise portability and storage. |
| Pedal and sound controls | Check the chord functions, pedal input and controls for each model, as well as its software support. M-Audio states that the SP2 pedal is sold separately. | If I want to sustain chords or control software parameters while playing, I need to know which features will work with my setup; around 14% of consumers prioritise these controls. |
Common buying pitfalls
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Confusing a MIDI controller with a keyboard that produces sound on its own
A MIDI controller sends performance data to a software instrument or compatible external device. Without a sound source and audio output, you won’t hear the chords you play.
Before you buy, decide which device or programme will produce the sound and how you’ll listen to it in your music room.
If you don’t already have these components, your setup may also require additional software, a suitable computer or compatible external equipment.
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Comparing only the number of keys
A larger keyboard can give you more keys within easy reach for spread-out chord voicings, but it takes up more space and may be harder to transport. Key size also affects how well the keyboard suits your playing style.
Compare its dimensions, weight and keys with your setup space, and with the chords and bass notes you want to play together.
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Assuming a pedal or DAW feature will work automatically
A pedal needs to be compatible with the model, and your DAW needs to receive the MIDI controls you want to use. Arturia reports a compatibility issue between the KORG DS1H pedal and both the MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential mk3.
Before you buy, check the pedal recommendations for the exact model, along with the settings or mapping your software requires.
For the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3, M-Audio lists the SP2 pedal as sold separately.
Relevant brands
Novation
The Launchkey range includes a more compact 37-key model and the Launchkey 49 MK4 for those looking for a larger keyboard with extra controls.
- Novation lists 49 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads, nine faders and chord modes for the Launchkey 49 MK4.
- Novation gives this model’s width as 730 mm and its weight as 4,08 kg. Check that these dimensions suit your playing space and how you’ll transport it.
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offer different options: a compact keyboard or more keys within easy reach.
- Arturia lists 25 slim keys for the MiniLab 3 and 49 keys for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3; according to the brand, both models have chord functions and a pedal input.
- Arturia warns of a compatibility issue with the KORG DS1H pedal on both models. Check the recommendations for the exact keyboard and pedal.
M-Audio
The Keystation 49 MK3 is designed for those who mainly want a 49-key keyboard for playing computer-based instruments.
- M-Audio lists 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys, USB-MIDI and a sustain pedal input.
- M-Audio lists the SP2 pedal as sold separately; also check that the controls work with your software.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus combines a compact keyboard with controls and connections for those who use these features in their setup.
- Akai lists 37 mini keys, chord and scale modes, pads and an internal two-track sequencer.
- The 37 mini keys offer a different playing experience from a larger 49-key keyboard. The MIDI, CV, Gate and Clock connections are most relevant if you use compatible external equipment.
Joybuy product selection
This selection focuses on a larger keyboard for those who want more keys within easy reach when playing ambient chords.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black, with MIDI controller function
For those looking for a larger keyboard with a MIDI controller function; the product title also mentions a recording function and speakers.
The product title lists 61 keys, a metronome and a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI keyboard produce ambient sound on its own?
A MIDI controller sends performance data to a software instrument or compatible external device, but doesn’t produce audible sound on its own. You’ll also need a sound source and an audio output.
What should I check if I press keys in Ableton Live but hear nothing?
Check that a MIDI track contains a software instrument, receives the correct MIDI input and is set to In, or to Auto with the track armed for recording. These are Ableton’s instructions for Live, not universal steps for other DAWs.
Will any sustain pedal work with an Arturia keyboard?
No. Check the recommendations for the exact model and pedal. Arturia reports a compatibility issue between the KORG DS1H pedal and both the MiniLab 3 and KeyLab Essential mk3.
Am I always entitled to exactly two years of legal warranty in the Netherlands?
The Dutch government does not specify a fixed legal warranty period. You are entitled to a product that works as it should, and you can contact the seller if there’s a problem. What you can reasonably expect from the product is taken into account when the issue is assessed.
Can I return a MIDI keyboard bought online in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch government, when you buy from a business at a distance, you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period. There are exceptions, so check the terms that apply to your specific purchase.