Film composers who play in parts
You want to play melodies and parts directly, and may use keys to switch articulations. Playing range and key controls matter more to you than having the smallest possible device.
Which type of MIDI keyboard is right for you?
Composers shaping orchestral sounds
You write with virtual instruments and want to adjust parameters as you play. Check which controls actually work with your instrument and DAW.
Composers with a small desk
You mainly sketch in a shared or compact studio and may be happy to trade some playing range for a smaller keyboard.
Which factors should you consider when buying?
Start with the playing range you need, then compare the controls, your listening setup and the space available on your desk.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Playing range and articulations | Compare the number of keys with your parts and the keyswitch layout in your instrument library. Check whether keyswitches can be moved. | If I play parts with both hands, I want to reach the notes and any keyswitches without constantly changing octaves. Around 26% of consumers put playing range first. |
| Expression and controls | Check which functions you can control using keys, faders or knobs, and whether your DAW and instrument support them. | When I want to adjust sound parameters while playing, the controls that suit my workflow matter most. Around 21% of consumers prioritise expression and hands-on control. |
| Listening in a quiet space | Check your computer, software instrument and audio output. Also assess the sound of the keys and pads in the room where you work. | If I want to work without speakers, I want to know whether my listening setup is suitable and how much mechanical noise the keyboard makes. Around 21% of consumers put quiet listening first. |
| Space and key size | Measure the available width and depth of your desk and compare them with the dimensions and key type of the exact model. | At a small or shared desk, I want a keyboard that fits my workspace without losing sight of key size. Around 16% of consumers prioritise desk space. |
| Working with your software | Check support for your DAW, operating system and instruments. A standard MIDI connection is not the same as deeper, automatic integration. | If I want to keep using my existing music software, I want to know in advance which controls and connections will work with it. Around 16% of consumers make software compatibility their top priority. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a standalone orchestral keyboard
A standard MIDI controller sends performance data to software, but it doesn’t produce the orchestral sound you hear by itself.
Decide in advance which sound source and audio output you want to use.
You’ll need a suitable sound source and listening setup for your complete workflow.
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Counting the keys but forgetting the keyswitch layout
Keyswitches may be outside the immediate range of a small keyboard. Some libraries let you move them.
Check the layout of your instrument library before choosing a larger keyboard for this reason.
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Confusing pad aftertouch with aftertouch on the keys
Aftertouch on pads is not the same as polyphonic aftertouch on keys: they are different controls.
Check where the aftertouch is and whether your instrument uses the messages you need.
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Assuming a warranty sticker fully explains your rights
According to ACM ConsuWijzer, your statutory guarantee is separate from any additional guarantee offered by the seller or manufacturer.
Check any additional guarantee terms separately and keep your proof of purchase and product details.
Brands to compare
These examples relate to specific product ranges; the features listed don’t automatically apply to every model from each brand.
Arturia
The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 combines 49 keys with controls, while the MiniLab 3 is a more compact option with 25 slim keys.
- Arturia lists nine faders and nine knobs for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3. The MiniLab 3 measures 355 × 220 × 50 mm.
- The MiniLab 3 offers less immediate playing range. Check software support for the exact model; the listed features aren’t the result of a comparative user test.
Novation
The Launchkey 49 MK4 is a 49-key controller with pads and controls for music software.
- Novation specifies semi-weighted keys, eight encoders, nine faders and sixteen pads.
- According to the manual, the controller measures 730 × 264 × 93 mm. Check that the controls suit your DAW; aftertouch on the pads is not the same as aftertouch on the keys.
Native Instruments
The Kontrol S61 MK3 is a 61-key controller for workflows involving Kontakt, Komplete Kontrol or supported DAW control.
- Native Instruments lists a semi-weighted keyboard with polyphonic aftertouch.
- Polyphonic aftertouch is useful if your instrument responds to it; also consider the space a larger keyboard needs.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with connections for compatible external MIDI or CV equipment.
- Akai Professional lists pads, MIDI, CV and Gate connections, and a built-in sequencer.
- The smaller keys and extra connections aren’t necessary for every workflow; the listed features aren’t the result of a comparative user test.
Joybuy 61-key keyboards
The Joybuy products below have 61 keys and product information that mentions MIDI use. They may suit you if you’re looking for a wider keyboard; before buying, check that the connection and controls work with your DAW and listening setup.
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Electronic keyboard with 61 keys, black, MIDI controller
An option for playing parts across a wider keyboard and listening through a headphone socket.
The product information lists USB-MIDI and a headphone socket.
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Digital keyboard with 61 keys, including stand and stool
An option for anyone who wants to play parts on a 61-key keyboard and use USB-MIDI.
The product name mentions USB-MIDI, a stand, a stool and a music rest.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
An option if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard and want to use MIDI with music software.
The product name mentions USB-MIDI.
Frequently asked questions
Can I hear orchestral sounds with just a MIDI keyboard?
No, a standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound itself. Akai Professional describes the MPK Mini Plus as a controller that sends MIDI to software. Use a suitable software instrument and set up the MIDI input and audio output in your DAW.
Do I need 61 keys for keyswitches in an orchestral library?
Not always: the keys you need depend on the library and your workflow. Spitfire Audio says that BBC Symphony Orchestra Discover uses keyswitches from C-2 to D#-2, and that you can move them if your keyboard can’t reach those notes.
Will headphones stop a MIDI keyboard from making noise?
Headphones let you listen without speakers, but they don’t tell you how much mechanical noise the keys or pads make. If possible, assess the noise in the studio where you plan to use the keyboard.
How do I check whether a MIDI keyboard works with my DAW?
Check the support and setup instructions for the exact model, your operating system and your DAW. Ableton explains that you can set up a controller as MIDI input for a track with a software instrument; the exact steps vary by DAW.
What returns period and guarantee apply to an online purchase in the Netherlands?
According to ACM ConsuWijzer, online purchases of products generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period after delivery, subject to legal exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that meets what you could reasonably expect; any additional guarantee doesn’t replace this right.