Who is it for?

Two-handed chord player

Wants to play bass notes and wide chord voicings, so compares key range, key size and sustain options. For example, M-Audio describes the Keystation 61 MK3 as having 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys.

Ambient producer using a DAW

Wants to build chord patterns and sounds using software, and is looking for controls that suit their workflow. Novation highlights chord functions for the Launchkey, while Arturia describes Analog Lab controls and DAW functions for the KeyLab Essential mk3.

Producer with limited desk space

Is looking for a smaller keyboard and may be willing to compromise on the range available without switching octaves. Akai Professional lists 37 keys for the MPK Mini Plus.

What should you look for when buying?

First decide what you don’t want to compromise on while playing: range, direct software control, desk space or hands-on expression. Then compare the controls and connections on the exact version with your home studio set-up.

What to consider What should you check? Who might prioritise this?
Range for bass and chords Compare the number and size of the keys, and try out the two-handed shapes you usually play. If I want to play bass notes and wide chords at the same time, I want to switch octaves as little as possible. Around 33% of consumers prioritise having room to play bass and chords.
Chord ideas and DAW control Check the chord functions, DAW integration and whether the controls work with the software instruments you use. If I want to develop chord ideas directly from the keyboard, I’m looking for controls that suit my software. Around 27% of consumers prioritise their chord and DAW workflow.
Desk space Measure the space available and compare it with the dimensions of the version you’re considering. Think about whether switching octaves while playing would bother you. When there’s little room left on my desk, I want a smaller keyboard without overlooking its more limited playing range. Around 20% of consumers prioritise a compact size.
Expression and hands-on control Check which controls and connections the version has, and whether your software responds to them. If I’d rather control my playing or sound parameters hands-on, I pay attention to responsiveness and the controls available. Around 20% of consumers consider control and expression their top priority.

Common buying mistakes

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Key size, controls and the range available without switching octaves can also vary between models with a similar number of keys.

    Try the bass and chord shapes you usually play, and compare how the keys feel with the space you have on your desk.

  • Confusing software chord assistance with a standalone keyboard function

    Chord assistance may depend on the software you use. Native Instruments describes the one-finger chord assistance in Komplete Kontrol as a software function; Novation describes chord functions for the Launchkey controller.

    Check whether you want to use the function without a computer, through your DAW or only with specific software.

  • Assuming a pedal or software bundle is included

    A pedal input doesn’t automatically mean a pedal is included in the box. M-Audio states that the SP2 pedal is sold separately.

    Check what’s in the box, any software requirements and pedal compatibility for the exact offer.

    If you need sustain control with a version that’s sold without a pedal, remember to factor in the extra purchase.

Relevant brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey MK4 range is worth considering if chord functions and DAW control are important to you.

  • Novation lists Scale, Fixed Chord and Chord Map functions for the Launchkey 49 MK4. Sound On Sound describes the larger versions as having faders and a semi-weighted keyboard.
  • Sound On Sound notes that the keys on the range discussed don’t have aftertouch. The 49-key version offers less range without switching octaves than a 61-key model.

Arturia

The KeyLab Essential mk3 is worth considering if you’re comparing a larger keyboard with controls for Analog Lab or a DAW.

  • Arturia describes direct Analog Lab control and customisable DAW controls; the KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 has 61 keys.
  • How useful the software integration is in practice depends on the instruments and settings you use.

M-Audio

The Keystation 61 MK3 offers a straightforward way to play on a larger keyboard yourself.

  • M-Audio specifies 61 semi-weighted, full-size, velocity-sensitive keys and a sustain pedal input.
  • M-Audio states that the SP2 pedal mentioned is sold separately. Check what’s included in the offer and whether the controls you want suit your set-up.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is a compact option to compare if desk space is a priority.

  • Akai Professional lists 37 keys, chord and scale modes, and a built-in sequencer.
  • With 37 keys, the range available without switching octaves is more limited than on a larger keyboard. Akai Professional requires a firmware update for this model before use.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol A49 is worth considering if you mainly work with Komplete or NKS instruments.

  • Native Instruments lists 49 semi-weighted keys and pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • The one-finger chord assistance described is part of Komplete Kontrol software; it isn’t shown to be a standalone hardware function of the A49.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard produce ambient sounds by itself?

The MIDI controllers discussed here send notes to a software instrument or another suitable sound source. M-Audio describes the Keystation 61 MK3 as a controller for virtual instruments on Mac or PC; check which software is included with the version you choose.

What should you check before connecting it and using it for the first time?

Check the USB connection, support for your computer and DAW, and any installation steps for the exact model. Akai Professional says the MPK Mini Plus is USB-powered and requires a firmware update before use.

Is a sustain pedal included as standard?

You can’t assume that’s the case with every MIDI keyboard. M-Audio lists a 6.3 mm pedal input for the Keystation 61 MK3 and states that the SP2 pedal is sold separately; check what’s included in the offer and whether it’s compatible.

What rights do you have when making an online purchase in the Netherlands?

When you buy from a business remotely, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to exceptions, according to the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksoverheid). If a product isn’t fit for purpose, you can contact the seller; the Rijksoverheid also states that there’s no fixed statutory warranty period for all products in the Netherlands.

Does a CE marking mean that a MIDI keyboard plays well?

No. Business.gov.nl says the CE marking isn’t a quality mark. Applicable product regulations must be followed for electrical or electronic products; the marking says nothing about how the keys feel or whether the keyboard is suitable for music-making.