Who is this for?

Player who doesn’t want to disturb housemates

Wants to listen to ambient sounds privately. Novation Support explains that MIDI carries control data, not sound; the software and selected audio output determine where you hear the sound.

Two-handed chord player

Wants enough keys to keep chords and other parts within reach. The specifications from Arturia, Akai Professional and Novation list different numbers of keys for you to compare with your playing needs.

Producer with limited desk space

Wants to set up or store the keyboard without giving up the chord-playing range and software controls they need. Compare the dimensions and features of the exact model with the space you have available.

What should you consider when choosing?

First decide how you’ll listen privately, then weigh up playing range, storage space and controls based on the way you work.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Private listening Check that your audio software sends sound to the headphone output you want to use. Novation Support explains that a Launchkey sends MIDI data, not audio. When I play in a shared home, I want to hear ambient sounds through my own listening setup. Private listening is the top priority for around 33% of consumers.
Playing range Compare the 25 keys on the Arturia MiniLab 3, the 37 on the Akai MPK Mini Plus and the 49 on the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4, as specified by the manufacturers. Also try the key size to see if it feels comfortable. When I want to play chords and other notes with both hands, I look at how many keys I can reach at once. Playing range is the top priority for around 27% of consumers.
Desk space and storage Compare the space on your desk with the dimensions of the exact model. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Novation lists the Launchkey 49 MK4 at 730 × 264 × 93 mm. When I use a shared workspace, I want to be able to store or set up the keyboard without losing my playing space. Storage is the top priority for around 20% of consumers.
Chord and DAW controls Check that the exact model has the features you want, such as chord or hold, and see which DAW versions it supports. Arturia, Nektar and M-Audio describe features and compatibility requirements for specific models. When I want to trigger chords or sustain notes while shaping sounds, I want to know whether the controls work with my software. These controls are the top priority for around 20% of consumers.

Avoid common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard that makes its own sound

    MIDI carries control data, not an audio signal. Headphones will only help if the software sends the sound to the right audio output.

    Before you buy, map out the whole signal chain: controller, instrument software and audio output.

  • Choosing based only on the number of keys

    A compact 25-key model and a 49-key model differ in playing range and physical size. With a smaller keyboard, you may need to change octaves more often or record parts separately.

    Compare the chords you usually play with your available workspace and the specifications of the exact model.

  • Assuming the controls work the same way in every DAW

    Controls and integration can vary by model and software. Arturia specifies a version requirement for Ableton Live for some KeyLab Essential mk3 mappings.

    Check the installation instructions and support for your DAW version and exact model.

Relevant brands

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact option, while the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offers more keys and DAW controls.

  • Arturia specifies 25 slim keys, chord mode and hold for the MiniLab 3.
  • Check the DAW and version requirements for specific KeyLab Essential mk3 features. These are manufacturer specifications, not an independent assessment of how the keyboard feels to play.

Novation

The Launchkey 49 MK4 is designed for players looking for 49 keys and physical DAW controls.

  • Novation specifies 49 semi-weighted keys, chord and scale modes, eight encoders and nine faders.
  • The stated width is 730 mm. Novation says that a Launchkey does not produce audio itself.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus offers a middle-ground size for those comparing 37 keys and built-in features.

  • Akai specifies 37 keys and a built-in sequencer.
  • The claim that it suits two-handed chord playing comes from Akai; it’s best to try the key size and feel for yourself.

M-Audio

The Oxygen 49 (MKV) is a 49-key controller with chord assistance and assignable software controls.

  • M-Audio specifies Smart Chord, eight rotary controls and nine faders for the Oxygen 49 (MKV).
  • Don’t confuse the Oxygen 49 (MKV) with the Oxygen Pro 49; check the features of each model.

Nektar

According to Nektar, the Impact LX49 mkIII combines 49 keys with hold and DAW control features.

  • Nektar lists chord, scale and hold features across the Impact LX mk3 range.
  • Some DAW integrations have model and version requirements; check which features work with your software.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I plug headphones directly into a standard MIDI keyboard to hear ambient sounds?

Don’t assume you can: a standard MIDI controller sends control data, not sound. Novation explains this for Launchkey; select the audio output you want in your audio software and check the connections on the exact model.

What should I check if the keys respond but I can’t hear anything?

Check that your audio software is controlling an instrument and that the audio output you want is selected. This is Novation’s advice for Launchkey; menus may vary between software.

Do I need to install extra software?

It depends on the model and how you work. Akai describes registration and redeeming the software included with the MPK Mini Plus; Arturia outlines separate mappings and version requirements for deeper DAW integration with the KeyLab Essential mk3. Check what your model and DAW require.

What can I do if my housemates are still disturbed by the noise?

First, try agreeing together on acceptable noise levels. The Dutch government also outlines possible next steps for ongoing nuisance from neighbours, such as contacting your landlord, local council or homeowners’ association. Check any house rules separately.

What rights do I have in the Netherlands when buying a keyboard online?

For distance purchases, you usually have a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions depending on the purchase. The Dutch government also explains that you’re entitled to a product that works properly and can ask the seller to resolve any problems.