For recording chord progressions at a sit-stand desk, choose a MIDI keyboard that fits your available space and has enough keys for the way you want to play. A compact keyboard takes up less room, while a larger one gives you more notes within easy reach. Also check its chord functions, pedal input and DAW controls. A MIDI controller sends MIDI information to software or another sound source, so check how you’ll make the notes you play audible and record them.
You want to record chords while keeping your work essentials on your sit-stand desk. Compare the dimensions and key size, not just the number of keys. Arturia and Novation provide dimensions and key sizes for their specific models.
You want to play different chord voicings directly with your hands, so pay attention to the range, key size and, if needed, a sustain pedal input. Novation and M-Audio list these details for the Launchkey 37 MK4 and Keystation 49 MK3 respectively.
You want to use chord functions and control recording from your controller. Check which functions are available on the exact model and whether they work with your DAW; Novation and Akai describe chord functions on specific models.
Choose this if: you have limited space and can play short chord voicings or switch octaves.
Trade-off: you have fewer keys under your fingers at once; chord mode won’t automatically give you the playing range of a larger keyboard.
Choose this if: you want more notes within easy reach and are looking for a middle-ground size. Also check whether you want mini or full-size keys.
Trade-off: the same number of keys doesn’t mean the same key size or the same amount of desk space. Novation lists the Launchkey 37 MK4 as measuring 557 × 251 × 79 mm.
Choose this if: you want to try chord voicings across a wider playing range and have room for a broader keyboard.
Trade-off: it takes up more desk space; check separately whether you need chord functions or specific DAW controls.
| What to consider | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space on your sit-stand desk | Measure the available width and depth, including room for connections. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Novation lists the Launchkey 37 MK4 as measuring 557 × 251 × 79 mm. | I want to place the controller next to my work essentials, so I take the full casing into account. Around 31% of consumers give desk space top priority. |
| Key size and playing range | Compare the key size and try playing the chord voicings you want to record. Novation lists the Launchkey 37 as having full-size keys; M-Audio lists the Keystation 49 MK3 as having 49 velocity-sensitive keys. | I want to play chord voicings with as few octave changes as possible, so I check how many notes I can reach at once. Around 31% of consumers prioritise playing range. |
| Building and varying chords | Check the manual to see how the chord function works and whether it suits the way you want to record progressions. Functions vary by model. | I want to explore chord ideas with built-in assistance, so I check how the feature works on the model I’ve chosen. Around 23% of consumers prioritise chord assistance. |
| Recording and DAW controls | Check your DAW’s MIDI input and recording settings. Ableton Live 12 treats MIDI note input and remote control as separate functions. | I want to control recording or software functions while playing, so I check whether the controls work with my DAW. Around 15% of consumers prioritise direct DAW control. |
A MIDI controller sends information to software or another sound source. Simply connecting it won’t automatically make your chords audible.
Before you buy, decide what you’ll use to make the MIDI notes sound and record them.
You may need a suitable sound source or audio software to make an audible recording.
A 37-key keyboard may have mini or full-size keys. You also need to make sure the full casing fits on your desk.
Compare the full model name, key size and listed dimensions with the space you have available.
Chord functions vary by model. In Ableton Live 12, note input and MIDI remote control are separate functions.
Check the manual for the exact model and test MIDI input and recording settings in your DAW.
Setting up MIDI input or assigning controls manually may take extra preparation.
The MiniLab 3 is a compact option if size, chord mode and easy-to-reach controls are all important to you.
Within the Launchkey MK4 range, you can choose between the Launchkey Mini 37 with mini keys and the Launchkey 37 with full-size keys.
According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with chord functions and connections for external equipment.
The Keystation 49 MK3 is an option if full-size keys and a wider playing range matter more to you than a compact keyboard.
The Impact LX Mini is a compact option with 25 mini keys if you want transport controls and a foot pedal connection.
This selection is for anyone who wants to record chord progressions via MIDI and play across a wider range of keys.
No image available
The 61-key layout suits anyone who wants to try chord voicings across a wider playing range.
The product description lists 61 keys, built-in speakers, USB-MIDI and a recording function. Check how the model works with your DAW and recording setup.
Connect the controller, select the right MIDI input in your DAW and arm the MIDI track for recording. In Ableton Live 12, MIDI tracks receive MIDI from active external inputs by default; you’ll also need an instrument or another suitable sound source to hear the result. If you use a different DAW, check its recording instructions.
Not necessarily. Ableton Live 12 treats note input and MIDI remote control separately. Check whether your model is supported as a control surface or assign functions yourself, making sure to check your software version.
Check that the USB connection is compatible with your computer or hub, and decide whether you want to connect a sustain pedal. Arturia lists USB-C and a pedal input for the MiniLab 3; M-Audio lists USB-MIDI and a 6,3 mm pedal input for the Keystation 49 MK3. Follow the instructions for your exact model for maintenance and any firmware updates.
For many eligible distance purchases from a business, you have a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to exceptions. If a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for your statutory guarantee rights. The Dutch government states that there is no fixed statutory guarantee period covering all products in the Netherlands.
The Dutch government states that electronic products sold in the EU must meet the applicable safety requirements and carry a CE marking. Check the seller, product information and returns policy; a Dutch-language website doesn’t necessarily mean the seller is based in the EU.
