Who is this choice relevant to?

Chord player

You want to record chord changes without having to move between octaves too often, so you’re comparing key size, number of keys and chord modes.

Producer by a bright window

You want to be able to read the screen and controls in your bright workspace, without assuming that the display will be readable in direct sunlight.

Producer with a small desk

You’re weighing up a compact design against playing space and hands-on control of your DAW.

What should you look for when choosing?

Start with a key range that suits the chords you play. Then measure the available desk space and check that the controls work with your DAW and the place where you’ll use the screen.

What to consider What should you check? Who should pay particular attention?
Key range and playing chords Compare key size and range: Arturia lists 25 slim keys for MiniLab 3; Novation lists 37 full-size keys for Launchkey 37 MK4; Akai Professional lists 37 mini keys for MPK Mini Plus; M-Audio lists 49 keys for Oxygen Pro 49. Also check which chord modes the exact model offers. If you want to play chord progressions with as few octave changes as possible, focus on key range and size; around 36% of consumers put this need first.
Screen visibility in daylight Novation lists adjustable screen brightness from 1–10 for the Launchkey 37 MK4. Check visibility where you plan to use the keyboard. In a bright workspace, you’ll want to be able to read the screen without guessing; around 29% of consumers prioritise visibility in daylight.
Desk space Measure the available width and depth. Arturia lists dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm for MiniLab 3; Novation lists a width of 557 mm and a depth of 251 mm for Launchkey 37 MK4. If your desk is already shared with a computer and other equipment, you’ll want to know what will fit first; around 21% of consumers put desk space first.
DAW control Check the instructions for your exact keyboard, DAW and software version. Arturia describes specific integration scripts and settings for MiniLab 3. If you want to control recording from your DAW rather than just send MIDI input, check how it connects with your software; around 14% of consumers give DAW control top priority.

Common pitfalls

  • Assuming a brightness setting guarantees visibility in sunlight

    The Launchkey 37 MK4 has adjustable screen brightness, but that doesn’t tell you how easy the display is to read in direct sunlight.

    Check the screen position in your intended workspace, and don’t let an unverified feature be the only thing guiding your choice of model.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    MiniLab 3 has slim keys, MPK Mini Plus has mini keys, and Launchkey 37 MK4 has full-size keys. So the number of keys doesn’t tell the whole story about size and playing space.

    Compare key size and range with the chords you play, and measure the available desk space at the same time.

  • Assuming all DAW controls work straight away

    Controls may depend on your DAW, software version and settings. Arturia describes model-specific scripts and configuration for MiniLab 3.

    Before buying, check the instructions for your exact DAW, version and keyboard model.

    Setting up scripts and MIDI mappings can take extra time.

Brands to consider

Arturia

MiniLab 3 is a compact controller for quick chord ideas and desks with limited space.

  • According to Arturia, MiniLab 3 has 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys, a chord mode and dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm.
  • Its key range is smaller than that of the 37- and 49-key models considered here. Check which DAW integration suits your software version.

Novation

Launchkey 37 MK4 is an option for playing chords on full-size keys and controlling recording software.

  • Novation lists 37 keys, three chord modes, a screen and adjustable screen brightness.
  • The brightness setting doesn’t guarantee readability in direct sunlight. Also check that the width of 557 mm and depth of 251 mm will fit on your desk.

Akai Professional

MPK Mini Plus is designed for compact chord and pattern production, including use with external MIDI/CV equipment.

  • According to Akai Professional, this model has 37 mini keys, chord and scale modes, and a two-track sequencer.
  • The keys are mini rather than full-size. The extra features are most useful if they fit into your workflow.

M-Audio

Oxygen Pro 49 is an option if you’re looking for a wider key range and DAW controls.

  • M-Audio lists 49 keys and Smart Chord, and describes DAW mappings.
  • The right DAW and configuration matter; check whether the wider key range will fit on your desk.

Joybuy product selection

This product selection is for anyone looking for a keyboard with a MIDI controller for recording chords; first check that the controls and connections described work with your DAW.

Black electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI controller

Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black, with MIDI controller

An option to consider if you’re looking for a keyboard with a MIDI controller for recording chords; check the connection and setup for your DAW.

The product name lists 61 keys, a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music stand.

View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Do I need any extra software to record chords?

To record in a DAW, use the keyboard as a MIDI input and set up a software instrument or another suitable sound source. For some DAW features on MiniLab 3, Arturia describes additional port settings and software versions.

Does an adjustable bright screen make a keyboard suitable for direct sunlight?

The specifications don’t confirm that. Novation lists adjustable screen brightness from 1–10 for Launchkey 37 MK4, but doesn’t provide a measurement of readability in sunlight; check visibility in the place where you plan to use it.

What if the keys work but the DAW buttons don’t?

Check the MIDI mapping, selected ports and DAW version. Arturia describes model-specific scripts and setup steps for MiniLab 3; check your keyboard’s manual for the relevant configuration.

Can I return a MIDI keyboard bought online?

For eligible online purchases from a business, the Dutch government says there is often a 14-day cooling-off period. Check the terms and any exceptions that apply to your purchase.

What should I look for to check the safety of an imported controller?

The Dutch government states that electronic devices offered for sale in the EU must carry a CE marking. Check the product marking and information for the specific item; a brand name alone doesn’t confirm that an individual product meets the applicable requirements.