Who is this for?

Piano-focused film composer

You play longer piano parts and want enough keys, with a key action that suits the way you play. Roland describes the A-88MKII as a keyboard with hammer action and three assignable zones.

DAW-focused arranger

You switch between virtual instruments and tracks, and want to control parameters using physical controls. Novation, Arturia and M-Audio describe controls that vary from model to model.

Composer with limited desk space

You sketch out ideas by the window and want to leave room for your computer and screen. A compact keyboard could be a good fit, as long as its more limited range suits the way you play your parts.

What should you look for when choosing?

Consideration What to look for Especially useful for
Key range and action Compare the number of keys and the stated key action with the parts you want to play. For longer piano parts, I want the range and key action to suit what I play. Around 33% of consumers give key range and action their top priority.
Readability by the window Check the display and buttons on the exact model where you plan to use the keyboard. If the window light falls on the panel, I want to be able to read the information and buttons from where I sit. Around 27% of consumers prioritise readability by the window.
DAW controls Check compatibility with your DAW, any setup requirements and whether the controls can be assigned. When switching between tracks and virtual instruments, I want the controls within easy reach. Around 27% of consumers prioritise DAW controls.
Workspace Measure the space available and allow for your computer, screen and cables. On a cramped desk, I want to leave room for my computer and screen, even if that means sacrificing some playing range. Around 13% of consumers give desk space their top priority.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming the type of display guarantees readability by the window

    A mention of the display type doesn’t tell you how easy the panel is to read in your workspace.

    Check the exact model in the spot where you plan to use it. Also see which functions you can access using physical controls, without navigating display menus.

  • Buying a MIDI controller as if it will automatically produce sound

    Roland explains that MIDI transmits performance data; you also need a sound source to hear audio, such as a software instrument or an external module.

    Before buying, check which computer, software or other sound source you’ll use, and what’s included with the version you choose.

    You need a suitable sound source to hear audio. Check whether it’s already part of your current setup and what software you still need.

  • Assuming more keys or controls are always better

    A larger keyboard needs more workspace, while extra controls are only useful if they suit the way you compose and use your DAW.

    Start with the parts you want to play, measure the space available, then check the controls and DAW integration.

Relevant brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey 49 MK4 combines keys with pads, faders and DAW controls.

  • Novation specifies 49 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads and nine faders.
  • Check that the listed DAW integrations work with your software version. The specifications don’t say how easy the display is to read in bright window light.

Arturia

The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 combines velocity-sensitive keys with physical DAW controls.

  • Arturia specifies that the Essential 49 mk3 has an LCD screen, nine faders, nine encoders and scripts for the named DAWs.
  • Don’t confuse the Essential version with the separate KeyLab mk3 range, which Arturia says offers a semi-weighted playing experience. The type of display doesn’t determine how easy it is to read in your workspace.

Roland

The A-88MKII is an 88-key, piano-focused keyboard for software instruments.

  • Roland describes hammer action, three assignable zones and pedal inputs.
  • A full-size keyboard needs more space than the 37- or 49-key models reviewed. Check which functions you need for your DAW.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus is designed for compact input, with mini keys, pads and MIDI connections.

  • Akai specifies 37 mini keys, transport buttons, pitch and modulation wheels, and a built-in sequencer.
  • The shorter mini keyboard offers less physical range than the 49- or 88-key models reviewed.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro 61 is an option if you’re looking for 61 keys and extensive software controls.

  • M-Audio describes assignable DAW controls.
  • M-Audio says you need to select the correct DAW setup to use them. Check that they work with your software and instruments.

Joybuy product selection

This Joybuy selection includes a 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller functionality for playing musical parts.

Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller functionality

61-key keyboard with MIDI controller functionality, black

The 61 keys and MIDI controller functionality make this a good fit if you want to play parts and work with MIDI.

The product name also mentions a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Will a MIDI controller produce the sound for my film music on its own?

Don’t assume it will: MIDI transmits performance data. Before buying, decide which computer, software instruments or external sound source you’ll use, and check the connections on the exact version.

What should I set up first after connecting it?

Select the right MIDI ports in your DAW and, where applicable, the ports for DAW control. Arturia describes separate DAW setup steps for the KeyLab mk3; these don’t automatically apply to the KeyLab Essential mk3.

Can I use the MPK Mini Plus straight away, without any preparation?

Akai recommends updating the firmware before using the MPK Mini Plus, according to its product FAQ. Check Akai’s latest instructions for this exact model.

What rights do I have when buying online from a business in the Netherlands as a consumer?

According to the Dutch government, distance purchases come with a 14-day cooling-off period in many cases; exceptions and the terms of the specific transaction also matter. There is no fixed general time limit for statutory guarantees in the Netherlands: according to the Dutch government, if a product is faulty, you should contact the seller.

What does a CE mark on an electronic MIDI keyboard mean?

According to the European Commission, a CE mark indicates that the manufacturer considers the product to comply with the relevant EU product rules. This general explanation doesn’t confirm that a specific item for sale complies.