Producer with a small desk
You want to play melodies and sounds into a DAW, and need to fit the controller in among your other equipment. Compare both the width and depth of the exact version.
Who is a compact MIDI keyboard suitable for?
Composer recording parts
You want to play chords and melodies without setting up a large keyboard. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini MK4 is available with 25 or 37 mini keys.
Beatmaker and sound designer
You want to record rhythms as well as play keys, or control software parameters. Compare the pads and controls on each model, and check how they work with your DAW.
What should you look for when choosing?
Compact 25-key controller
When is it a good fit? When space is your priority and you record parts one after another. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm.
The trade-off: The smaller range may mean switching octaves more often or recording parts separately.
Compact 37-key controller
When is it a good fit? When you want more notes under your hands at once and have room for 478 × 177 mm on your desk. These are the dimensions Novation gives for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4.
The trade-off: Its listed width is 139 mm greater than that of the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; both models have mini keys.
Straightforward keyboard control
When is it a good fit? If you mainly want to enter notes and don’t need many hands-on controls, the Nektar SE25 is worth comparing.
The trade-off: For the DAW integration described, Nektar requires you to register and install integration files. Check that your DAW is supported.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is it most important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, allowing room for cables. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm. | If space is tight, I want to know whether the controller will fit without pushing aside other equipment. Around 31% of consumers put available space first. |
| Key range | Compare 25 and 37 keys, and consider whether switching octaves suits the way you record. The Launchkey Mini versions mentioned have mini keys. | If I want to play chords and melodies within the same range, I look at how many notes I can reach at once. Around 25% of consumers prioritise playing range. |
| DAW and sound source | Check the DAW version, computer requirements and whether you can use a software instrument or another sound source. | If I want to hear and record my parts in software, I want to know which programmes and installation steps are needed. Around 25% of consumers prioritise software and sound source. |
| Pads and controls | Decide whether you want to record rhythms or control parameters directly, then check that the features work with your software. | If I want to record rhythms or control software functions without a mouse, I compare the pads and controls on each model. Around 19% of consumers prioritise hands-on control. |
Common buying mistakes
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Looking only at the width
Depth can also determine whether a controller fits on your desk. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 mm, while Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 at 339 × 177 mm.
Measure the available width and depth, and leave room for connections.
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a complete sound source
A MIDI controller sends performance and control data. You also need a suitable sound source, such as a software instrument, to hear any sounds.
Before buying, check what you’ll use to create and listen to the sounds you want. The MIDI Association describes MIDI as messages that include turning notes on and off.
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Assuming DAW integration based on the brand name alone
Support and installation requirements vary by model. Nektar describes registration and installation of integration files for the SE25; Akai lists system requirements for the MPK Mini IV software.
Check support for your DAW, the software version and any installation files required for the exact model.
Brands to compare
Novation
The Launchkey Mini MK4 is available with 25 or 37 mini keys, so you can weigh the listed dimensions against the key range you want.
- Novation lists velocity-sensitive pads and encoders for the versions reviewed.
- The 25-key version is 339 mm wide; the 37-key version is 478 mm wide. These are manufacturer specifications, not the result of an independent playing test.
Arturia
According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 combines 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys with controls, pads and included software.
- Arturia lists eight encoders, four sliders and dimensions of 355 × 220 mm.
- Check that the listed depth fits your desk and that the connections and software suit your setup.
Akai Professional
Akai describes the MPK Mini IV as a compact controller with pads, wheels and a software bundle.
- Akai lists mechanical pitch and modulation wheels.
- Check that your computer meets the system requirements Akai lists for the MPK Mini IV software, including Windows 10+ or macOS 13+.
Nektar
The SE25 is a 25-mini-key option for anyone mainly looking for keys and basic controls.
- Nektar lists six control buttons and DAW integration for a range of programmes.
- The integration described requires registration and installation of integration files; check that your DAW is supported.
Joybuy products
A Joybuy pick suited to MIDI input and music-making. If space is limited, check the model’s dimensions and layout.
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Electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI controller
Could suit anyone looking for keys, built-in sounds and speakers as well as MIDI input. Before buying, check that the dimensions and key layout work for your desk.
61 keys. The product description lists 500 sounds, 300 rhythms, a metronome, built-in speakers and a recording function.
The product description lists USB-MIDI. Check that the connections and features work with your computer and music software.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI keyboard make music for my game by itself?
A standard MIDI controller sends performance and control data; a sound source or software instrument makes that input audible. Check what software and audio output you need, and whether a particular model has built-in sounds. The MIDI Association explains how MIDI messages transmit information such as notes.
Should I choose 25 or 37 keys?
Choose 25 keys if desk space is your priority and you can record parts one after another. A 37-key model gives you a wider range under your hands, if it fits. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 at 339 mm wide and the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 at 478 mm; both have mini keys.
What should I check for DAW integration and installation?
Check the DAW version, computer requirements and whether your software supports the controls you want. Nektar lists registration and installation of integration files for the SE25 integration described; Akai lists system requirements for the MPK Mini IV software.
What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch government, when you buy remotely online from a business, you’ll usually have 14 days to change your mind, although exceptions apply. Products are also covered by a statutory guarantee; the Dutch government states that the Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period.
Can I use existing music or samples in a game I publish?
Don’t use other people’s copyrighted music without the necessary permission. The Dutch government distinguishes between private use and distributing or making content available to the public; also check the terms of the specific sample or software licence.