Chord player with a small desk
You want to play chords directly on the keys and are weighing up the range you need against the space available on your desk.
Who is this keyboard for?
Creator of evolving sound layers
You want to hold chords while adjusting sound parameters in software. Controls, sliders, a pedal input and software integration may all be worth considering.
Producer with an existing DAW
You’re looking for a controller that works with your computer, sound software and preferred MIDI connection. Bear in mind that the controller itself does not necessarily produce sound.
What should you consider when choosing?
25 keys
Choose this if: desk space is important and your chord shapes fit within the range, perhaps with chord or octave functions. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 measures 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm.
Bear in mind: the limited range can make wider chord shapes or playing low and high parts at the same time more difficult. Also check whether mini keys feel comfortable to play.
32 mini keys
Choose this if: you want more keys than the 25-key models mentioned and would like to trigger a chord with a single key. M-Audio lists the Oxygen Pro Mini as having 32 mini keys and Smart Chord.
Bear in mind: the key count alone won’t tell you whether the keyboard will fit your desk or whether mini keys suit your playing style; check the dimensions of the specific version.
37 keys
Choose this if: you want to play more notes yourself at the same time and use extra connections for external equipment. Arturia lists the KeyStep 37 mk2 as having 37 slimkeys, chord and scale modes, and MIDI and CV/Gate connections.
Bear in mind: measure the available width and depth first; extra connections are only useful if they suit your setup.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Playing chords | Try out your chord shapes and compare both the number and size of the keys. Decide whether a chord mode will work for the way you play. | If I want to play ambient chords myself, I need enough range for the chord shapes I play at the same time. Around 33% of consumers say playing chords manually is their main concern when buying. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables, and compare these with the exact model’s dimensions. | On a small desk, the dimensions of the whole unit matter, not just the number of keys. Around 27% of consumers prioritise the space available on their desk. |
| Holding chords and controlling sounds | Check whether the model has a sustain or hold function and useful controls or sliders; make sure you can use them with your software. | If I want to hold chords while adjusting sounds, I need to know which controls suit the way I work. Around 20% of consumers give sound control top priority. |
| Sound source and connection | Check that your computer or external sound source, software and audio output work together; also see whether you need a separate MIDI output. | For an existing computer setup, I want to know in advance whether the controller, software and sound source are compatible. Around 20% of consumers make compatibility with their existing setup their first consideration. |
How to avoid common buying mistakes
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Comparing only the number of keys
The number of keys doesn’t tell you how much desk space the whole unit takes up. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 measures 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm.
Measure the available width and depth on your desk and compare them with the model’s full dimensions, allowing room for cables.
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Assuming a MIDI controller produces sound on its own
A MIDI controller sends performance data; the software or another sound source has to produce the sound. Novation describes the software for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as computer-based.
Before buying, check what you’ll use to produce and listen to the sound.
You’ll also need a suitable sound source and audio output to hear anything.
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Confusing a chord mode with extra physical keys
A feature that triggers a chord with a single key does not increase the number of keys on the instrument.
Choose a chord feature if it suits the way you work; choose more physical keys if you want to play the chord shapes you need yourself, all at once.
Brands to consider
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 is designed for compact software control, while Arturia says the KeyStep 37 mk2 offers more keys and connections for external equipment.
- Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as having 25 slimkeys, a hold function, sliders and a pedal input.
- Arturia lists the KeyStep 37 mk2 as having 37 slimkeys and MIDI and CV/Gate connections.
- Compare the space you need and choose extra connections only if you’ll use them.
Novation
The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed for a compact setup with software controls.
- Novation lists chord modes, eight encoders and dimensions of 339 × 177 mm.
- The mini keys offer a limited range for playing by hand; also check that the pedal connection and software workflow suit your needs.
M-Audio
The Oxygen Pro Mini offers a middle ground, with 32 mini keys and features for triggering chords.
- According to M-Audio, Smart Chord can play a preset chord using a single key or pad.
- A triggered chord won’t replace playing the chord voicing you want yourself for every player; check the dimensions of the version available.
Nektar
The Impact LX Mini is a 25-key controller with a pedal connection and DAW controls.
- Nektar lists 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys and a footswitch connection with an adapter included.
- Check that the DAW integration works with your software.
Akai Professional
According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus combines 37 keys with chord and scale modes, plus connections for external MIDI equipment.
- Akai lists 5-pin MIDI inputs and outputs.
- Akai requires a firmware update before use; also check that you have enough space for the model.
A Joybuy product for a wider playing range
This Joybuy product is a 61-key model for anyone who values a wider playing range and built-in sounds more than the smallest possible footprint. Measure your space first to check that the unit will fit your setup.
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61-Key Electronic Keyboard Piano with MIDI Controller, Black
Ideal if you want to play ambient chords across a wider range and hear sound from built-in tones and speakers; bear in mind that it needs more desk space.
According to the product listing, this model has 61 keys, built-in tones, speakers, USB-MIDI, a sustain effect, a recording function, a metronome and a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI keyboard produce ambient sounds by itself?
A MIDI controller sends performance data to a sound source. The software Novation describes for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 runs on a computer; you’ll also need suitable audio output.
How do I connect a sustain pedal?
Check the input on the exact model and the pedal’s connector. Novation lists a 6.35 mm sustain input for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4. Nektar lists a smaller connection for the Impact LX Mini, with an adapter included.
What should I check if the controls don’t work after connecting?
Check the settings and manual for your model and software. Novation requires a firmware update the first time you connect the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; Arturia describes separate MIDI ports and DAW settings for the MiniLab 3.
What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?
When you buy from a business at a distance, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to exceptions, according to the Dutch government. You’re also entitled to a product that is fit for purpose. There is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands; if something goes wrong, contact the seller.
What product rules apply to an electric MIDI controller?
The European Commission states that the EMC Directive applies to equipment within its scope. CE marking is required only for products covered by applicable EU rules that make it mandatory. Check the documentation for the specific version; a marking or statement on its own does not show that all applicable requirements have been met.