Start by considering how you’ll record and listen: a MIDI controller sends data to music software, but doesn’t automatically play sound itself. Then choose between a compact keyboard with a chord function and a wider keyboard that lets you play more notes directly. Neither feature proves that the physical keys are quiet, so if key noise is a deciding factor, assess the exact model separately.
You’re looking for a keyboard that fits beside your computer and want to know whether mini keys or a chord function will suit the way you play. The Akai MPK Mini Plus and M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini have chord functions, according to Akai Professional and M-Audio respectively.
You want to play chord voicings directly and are weighing up extra playing space against the instrument’s width. According to their manufacturers, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 and Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 both have 49 keys.
You want to record MIDI and listen to your computer’s audio through your chosen audio output, without assuming the controller itself has a headphone output. Novation Support explains that MIDI data doesn’t contain sound.
Start with your listening setup: MIDI doesn’t contain audio, so your music software and audio output determine how you hear the result, as Novation Support explains. Then consider the space on your desk, how you play chords and the controls you need.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Listening setup | Check that your computer, music software and instrument sound work with the headphone socket or audio interface you plan to use. Don’t assume the controller has an audio output. | If I’m recording in a quiet home studio, I want to hear the result through my chosen audio output, rather than assume the keyboard itself makes a sound. Around 30% of consumers prioritise their listening setup. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. According to Novation, the Launchkey 49 MK4 is 730 mm wide; according to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is 790 mm wide. | At a small desk, I want to leave room for my computer and other essentials without choosing a keyboard that won’t fit my setup. Around 30% of consumers give desk size top priority. |
| Playing chords | Compare the key size, range and operation of any chord mode. The Launchkey 49 MK4 and KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 mentioned above have 49 keys; the MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys and the Oxygen Pro Mini has 32 mini keys. | If I want to play chord voicings with both hands, I want to know how many notes are within easy reach and whether a chord mode suits the way I work. Around 20% of consumers prioritise being able to play notes directly. |
| DAW control | Check that the controls and their assignments work with your music software and the correct configuration. M-Audio explains that with the Oxygen Pro Mini, you select your DAW on the device and configure the corresponding setting in the software. | If I want to control recording and playback from the keyboard, I want to know whether its functions work with my DAW and settings. Around 20% of consumers prioritise DAW control. |
MIDI data doesn’t contain audio. Without a software instrument set up and an audio output selected, you won’t hear the result through your intended listening setup.
Before buying, check how you’ll record the notes, which instrument sound you’ll use and which output you’ll listen through.
The fact that MIDI itself doesn’t contain audio says nothing about the mechanical noise of the keys.
If physical key noise is a deciding factor in your home studio, assess it separately for the exact model.
Two keyboards with the same number of keys can have different overall dimensions. According to Novation, the Launchkey 49 MK4 is 730 mm wide; according to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is 790 mm wide.
Measure your workspace and compare it with the dimensions of the model you’re considering, including the space you need to use your computer.
According to Novation, the Launchkey range includes compact models and larger keyboards with chord and scale functions. This may be useful if you’re weighing up range against DAW control.
According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is designed for playing and DAW control. The KeyStep 37 mk2 is also described as having connections for external equipment.
According to Akai Professional, the MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with a chord mode and an internal sequencer.
According to M-Audio, the Oxygen Pro Mini is a USB-powered controller with 32 mini keys, Smart Chord and DAW control.
According to Korg, the microKEY2 range is available with different numbers of mini keys. The microKEY2-37 is a compact USB option.
Don’t assume you can. Novation explains that MIDI itself doesn’t contain sound and that you can set your preferred audio output in your audio software. Check the connections on your controller and use the appropriate output on your computer or audio interface for the instrument sound.
Connect the controller, select the MIDI input and a software instrument in your music software, then set the audio output you’ll listen through. For precise DAW assignments, consult the manuals for your model and software.
No. Akai describes a mode for the MPK Mini Plus in which one key triggers several notes in a chord; M-Audio describes a similar way of entering notes with Smart Chord. Which notes you record depends on the mode and settings you choose.
When you buy from a business online, you’re often entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period; the Dutch government lists some exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that is fit for purpose. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period for all products in the Netherlands; if there’s a problem, contact the seller.
According to the European Commission, CE marking is mandatory only for product groups covered by applicable harmonised EU rules that require it. Check which rules apply to the specific product; the marking doesn’t indicate whether the keys are mechanically quiet.
