Choose a MIDI keyboard based on the space available in front of your two screens and the parts you want to play at the same time. A 49-key model usually takes up less room, while 61 or 88 keys give you a wider playing range. For orchestral libraries, assignable expression controls and integration with your DAW are also important; check which controls your library and software version require.
You want to play in front of your two screens without the keyboard taking over the rest of your workspace. Compare the exact model’s width and depth with the space available; Novation and Arturia publish dimensions for their models.
You use libraries where notes alone don’t control all the dynamics and expression. Spitfire Audio explains that the libraries mentioned use specific MIDI CC controls; check whether you can assign these functions to your keyboard’s controls.
You enjoy playing across several octaves and are weighing up a wider playing range against the space required and the feel of the keys. Compare the key layout and key type of the model you’re considering.
Best for: a compact set-up where you can record parts in separate takes or octaves if needed. Novation lists the Launchkey 49 MK4 as 730 mm wide.
Trade-off: less playing range at your fingertips than with 61 or 88 keys; also check whether you can assign the controls your chosen library needs.
Best for: anyone who often plays melody and accompaniment across a wider range at the same time. Novation lists the Launchkey 61 MK4 as 895 mm wide.
Trade-off: allow for more width than with the 49-key model mentioned above; polyphonic aftertouch isn’t automatically the same as the CC control a library expects.
Best for: anyone who genuinely uses the full playing range and has enough room. Arturia lists the KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 as 1258 mm wide.
Trade-off: the wider range takes up more space; semi-weighted keys are not the same as a hammer action.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Expression controls | Check which MIDI CCs your library uses and whether the wheels, faders or a compatible pedal can control those parameters. Spitfire Audio lists CC1 for dynamics and CC11 for expression in the libraries described. | If I want to control orchestral dynamics as I play, I check how my library’s controls can be assigned; around 33% of consumers prioritise expression controls. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth where you plan to place the keyboard, leaving room for your hands and cables. Compare this with the dimensions of the exact model. | If I’m playing in front of two screens, I want the keyboard to fit without getting in the way of the rest of my workspace; around 27% of consumers prioritise desk space. |
| Playing range and key feel | Work out how many keys you use at the same time and check that the action of the model suits your playing style. Semi-weighted keys and hammer action are different types. | If you like playing parts across several octaves at once, a wider range may matter more than a more compact set-up; around 20% of consumers prioritise playing range. |
| DAW and software integration | Check compatibility with your DAW version, any integration scripts and the MIDI ports. Then set up the input, instrument and audio output. | If I want to control my existing DAW and instrument software from the keyboard, I check which settings are needed; around 20% of consumers prioritise software integration. |
More keys give you a wider playing range at your fingertips, but won’t automatically let you control orchestral dynamics. The space required can also be a deciding factor in a workspace with two screens.
First measure the space available, then check how many keys you use at once and how your library handles expression.
Native Instruments describes the Kontrol S61 MK3 as having polyphonic aftertouch. Spitfire Audio lists specific CCs for dynamics and expression in the libraries described; these functions aren’t automatically interchangeable.
Check which messages your instrument software expects and how you can assign them to the controls on the model you choose.
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The Launchkey MK4 is available with 49 or 61 keys and DAW controls, so you can weigh up playing range against the space available.
The KeyLab Essential mk3 includes an 88-key option for anyone who values playing range over a compact footprint.
The Kontrol S61 MK3 is worth considering if you use Kontakt or Komplete Kontrol in your composition workflow.
The Oxygen Pro 61 is a 61-key option with faders and DAW controls.
A Joybuy keyboard with MIDI controls for anyone looking for a 61-key layout.
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Worth a look if you’re after a 61-key keyboard with MIDI controls.
According to the product title: 61 keys, MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand.
Not always. Spitfire Audio says that, in the libraries described, long articulations respond to the dynamics control, while short articulations may respond to velocity by default. Check the controls for the library you use.
Follow the model’s manual and select the correct MIDI input, software instrument and audio output in your DAW. Novation describes the Launchkey 49 MK4 as USB-powered; Arturia notes that certain DAW controls on the KeyLab Essential mk3 require a suitable script and settings. Having two screens doesn’t change the MIDI settings themselves.
It depends on the inputs and assignability of the exact model. Native Instruments lists assignable pedal inputs for the Kontrol S61 MK3, including a dedicated expression input. Novation describes the Launchkey 49 MK4 as having an input for sustain pedals and momentary footswitches; these inputs aren’t interchangeable.
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