Who is this choice relevant to?

Beatmaker with a small desk

Makes beats and basslines in a DAW and needs room for both keys and pads alongside study equipment.

Player of chords and melodies

Weighs up the range of notes available straight away against the space the keyboard takes up.

DAW-focused home producer

Wants to use buttons or transport controls while recording, and checks that they work with their DAW and software version.

What should you look for when choosing?

First, measure the space available on your desk. Then decide whether drum rhythms, longer played parts or direct DAW control matters most to you.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact version. If your desk is also your study space, you’ll want to know whether the keyboard can stay there. Around 31% of consumers put available space first.
Drum rhythms Check the number of pads, how responsive they are to pressure and how to map them in your DAW. If you mainly want to play drum hits, look for physical pads that work with the software you use. Around 25% of consumers prioritise playing rhythms.
Playing range Compare the number of keys and their size; a wider range of notes at your fingertips may require more desk space. For longer melodies or chords, you’ll want enough notes to play without having to switch octaves too often. Around 25% of consumers put an extended playing range first.
DAW control and software Check the DAW version, setup process and which software or licences come with that version. If you want to control functions from the keyboard while recording, its controls need to work with your software. Around 19% of consumers give DAW control top priority.

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Assuming a MIDI controller makes sound on its own

    A standard controller sends MIDI data, but doesn’t produce the sound of an instrument itself. Without a sound source set up, you won’t hear the part you play.

    Check how your computer, software instrument and audio output work together. Akai Professional explains this for the MPK mini mk3.

  • Counting the keys but forgetting about desk space

    A wider playing range is only practical if the instrument fits alongside your existing computer setup.

    Measure the available space and compare its width and depth with the dimensions of the exact version. Check the key size too.

  • Assuming pads and transport controls will work straight away in every DAW

    How the controls work may depend on your software version and setup. Novation specifies minimum versions for Launchkey MK4 integration with Ableton Live, while M-Audio describes a configuration step for the Oxygen Pro Mini.

    Check compatibility with your DAW version and follow the setup instructions for the exact model.

  • Assuming all software or extended cover is automatically included

    Software may require registration or installation. According to the Government of the Netherlands, extended cover is only worthwhile if it gives you additional rights.

    Check the licences and terms for the version on offer, and compare any extended cover with your statutory rights.

Brands worth comparing

Novation

Novation describes the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 as designed for a compact software setup, with keys, pads and DAW controls.

  • Novation specifies 37 mini keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads for this model.
  • For Ableton Live integration, Novation specifies minimum versions: Live 11.3.26 or 12.0.25.

Arturia

Arturia positions the MiniLab 3 as a compact keyboard with knobs, pads and bundled software.

  • Arturia lists 25 slim keys, two banks of eight pads and a 5-pin MIDI output.
  • With 25 keys, you have a narrower playing range at your fingertips than with the 32- or 37-key models mentioned here.

Akai Professional

Akai describes the MPK Mini IV as a compact keyboard controller with pads, transport controls and a software bundle.

  • Akai lists USB-C and a MIDI output for this model.
  • Check which software and connections are included with the version you’re considering; manufacturer claims about workflow aren’t an independent performance test.

M-Audio

According to M-Audio, the Oxygen Pro Mini combines 32 mini keys with assignable DAW controls.

  • The stated number of keys gives you a useful playing range in a compact layout.
  • M-Audio explains that you select the DAW on the device and choose the correct configuration in the DAW.

Native Instruments

Native Instruments describes the KOMPLETE KONTROL M32 as designed to control Komplete and NKS software.

  • Native Instruments lists 32 compact keys, pre-mapped controls for Komplete and NKS plug-ins, and USB power.
  • The controls described depend on the software you use, and aren’t a general advantage over other controllers.

Joybuy product selection

This selection focuses on a larger keyboard for playing backing tracks with chords and melodies.

Electronic keyboard with MIDI controller, 61 keys, black

Electronic keyboard with MIDI controller, 61 keys, black

Suited to anyone looking for a larger keyboard for chords and melodies; the product description lists 61 piano-style keys and USB MIDI.

The product description mentions built-in sounds, rhythms, a recording function and speakers. The product title also mentions a metronome and music stand.

Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Do I need anything else to hear my track when using a MIDI keyboard?

Yes, if you’re using a standard controller: it sends MIDI data but doesn’t produce the sound of an instrument itself. You’ll need a sound source, such as a software instrument on a computer, as well as audio output. Akai Professional explains this for the MPK mini mk3; check how to set things up for your model.

Why don’t the controls work straight away in Ableton Live after I connect the keyboard?

Check your DAW version and your model’s MIDI settings. For the Launchkey MK4, Novation lists integration from Live 11.3.26 or 12.0.25, with separate steps for manual setup. Don’t assume these version numbers apply to other controllers.

Can I return a keyboard bought online within 14 days?

According to the Government of the Netherlands, a 14-day cooling-off period applies in many cases when you buy from a business at a distance. This doesn’t necessarily apply to an online purchase from a private seller, so check the relevant terms and the seller’s information.

Am I automatically entitled to exactly two years of legal cover in the Netherlands?

No. The Government of the Netherlands states that there’s no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands: you’re entitled to a product that meets the standard you could reasonably expect. If a product is faulty, contact the seller; a manufacturer’s guarantee may be offered in addition.

Can I upload a backing track featuring someone else’s music online?

Don’t assume that playing the music yourself automatically gives you permission to share the track. The Government of the Netherlands distinguishes between making a copy for personal use and distributing or making it available to the public; permission may be needed for protected work. BumaStemra explains that the permission or licence required for covers and adaptations depends on the circumstances.