Who is this buying guide for?

Creating and recording arpeggios

You want to create a pattern and save it as a usable recording. So decide whether you want to use a built-in arpeggiator or use the feature in your DAW; Ableton documents an arpeggiator for Live 12.

Using a shared workspace

You take a controller with you and may use different computers or DAWs. Novation describes the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 as having compact mini keys and DAW controls; check the software settings on the computer you’ll be using.

Connecting an external synthesiser

You want to control hardware as well as your computer. Arturia lists MIDI DIN, sync and CV/Gate connections for the KeyStep 37 mk2; compare these with the connections on the equipment in your music room.

What should you look for?

Start by deciding how you want to record your arpeggios. Then consider DAW controls and size, and only choose extra connections if you need them.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Recording arpeggios Make a short test recording to check whether your DAW captures the MIDI notes you want. If I want to record arpeggios, I want to know whether I’ll be able to edit the notes later, rather than just hear the finished sound. Around 36% of consumers give capturing arpeggios their highest priority.
DAW controls Check the setup and controls for the DAW and version installed on the computer in the room. When using a shared computer, I want to check in advance that the controls work with my DAW, so I know what settings I’ll need. Around 29% of consumers give working with the available DAW their highest priority.
Size and keys Compare the number of keys and the dimensions with your playing preferences and the available desk space. If I want to take my controller with me and work at a crowded desk, I consider how much space it takes up without overlooking the range of keys I can play at once. Around 21% of consumers give portability their highest priority.
External equipment Compare the keyboard’s MIDI, sync or CV connections with the inputs on the equipment available. If I want to control a synthesiser as well as my computer, I want to know in advance what connection the equipment needs. Around 14% of consumers give connections for external hardware their highest priority.

Common buying pitfalls

  • Assuming a clearly audible arpeggio is automatically recorded as individual notes

    Where the pattern is created and how the MIDI routing is set up affect what you can edit in your DAW. Ableton describes separate workflows for incoming MIDI and MIDI output from certain plug-ins.

    First, make a short test recording and check the notes in the MIDI clip before recording a full session.

  • Treating the MPK Mini Plus and MPK mini Plus II as the same model

    Akai describes differences in features and USB connections, so specifications or instructions for one version don’t automatically apply to the other.

    Check the full model name against the model-specific specifications and manual.

  • Choosing extra hardware connections without checking your equipment

    MIDI DIN, sync and CV/Gate serve different connection needs. They aren’t automatically necessary in a setup that uses software only.

    First, note the connections on the synthesisers available and compare them with the exact keyboard model.

Brands worth comparing

Novation

According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 combines mini keys with a built-in arpeggiator and DAW controls.

  • Novation lists 37 mini keys, 16 pads and eight encoders for this model.
  • Check the controls and recording in the DAW you use; these specifications don’t tell you how every software setup will work.

Arturia

The KeyStep 37 mk2 is worth considering if sequencer features and connections to external equipment are important to you.

  • Arturia lists an arpeggiator and sequencer for the KeyStep 37 mk2, as well as USB-C, MIDI DIN, sync and CV/Gate.
  • Don’t assume other Arturia models have the same connections; check the product name and specifications for the exact model.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is an option to compare if you’re looking for arpeggios, pads and patterns with a built-in sequencer.

  • Akai lists 37 mini keys, an arpeggiator and a two-track sequencer for the MPK Mini Plus.
  • The MPK Mini Plus and MPK mini Plus II are different models; check the full name before comparing features or connections.

Korg

The nanoKEY Studio is a compact range worth comparing for a small or mobile workspace.

  • Korg lists 25 keys, an arp button, USB and Bluetooth Low Energy MIDI for the nanoKEY Studio.
  • Korg specifies system requirements for wireless use, so check that the computer in your music room meets them.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini is a compact controller worth comparing if control of music software is a factor in your choice.

  • M-Audio lists 32 mini keys and customisable DAW controls for this model.
  • M-Audio describes a configuration step, so check that it integrates with the DAW you actually use.

Joybuy product selection

This selection is for anyone looking for a keyboard with MIDI controller and recording functions to use with a DAW in a music room.

Electronic keyboard with 61 keys, black

Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black

Worth considering if you’re looking for a keyboard with MIDI controller and recording functions. Check that it works with the DAW and computer you use in the music room.

61 keys; MIDI controller function; recording function.

Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a built-in arpeggiator?

Not if your DAW’s arpeggiator creates the patterns you need; Ableton documents this feature for Live 12. If you want to control patterns from the keyboard or operate external equipment, compare the features of the exact model.

How can I check whether my arpeggio has been recorded as editable MIDI?

Make a short test recording and look at the notes in the MIDI clip. Ableton describes Capture MIDI for incoming MIDI on an enabled or monitored track, and a separate route for MIDI output from certain VST plug-ins. The route you need depends on where the pattern is created.

Will a wireless controller work with every computer in the room?

You can’t tell from the presence of Bluetooth alone. Korg specifies Bluetooth Low Energy MIDI for the nanoKEY Studio, as well as separate requirements for wireless connections; check the computer and current driver support on site.

What are my rights when buying a MIDI keyboard 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; exceptions and the type of seller are also relevant. You’re also entitled to a product that works as it should, and you can generally contact the seller if there’s a fault. The Netherlands does not have one fixed statutory guarantee period for all products.

Does a MIDI keyboard need a CE marking?

A CE marking is required if the specific product is covered by applicable harmonised EU rules that require it. Check which rules apply to the model in question; a CE marking is not an independent quality test.