Who is this for?

Composers with limited desk space

If you want to play in melodies for a game soundtrack and need to fit your keyboard next to your computer on a small desk, Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm.

Beatmakers and sound designers

If you want to control drums, short motifs and parameters directly while working in a DAW, Novation and Akai Professional describe pads and controls on their compact models.

Composers who play parts with both hands

If having more keys within reach for chords and longer parts matters more than getting the smallest possible model, Nektar Technology lists 49 keys for the Impact GX49.

What should you look for?

Compact keyboard with pads

Best for: a small desk and composing short melodies and rhythms, with software controls close at hand. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as having 25 mini keys, 16 pads and 8 encoders.

Bear in mind: the limited range; you may need to switch octaves to play longer parts.

A middle ground with 37 mini keys

Best for: anyone who finds 25 keys too limiting but cannot fit a large keyboard on their desk. Akai Professional lists the MPK mini Plus as having 37 mini keys, pads, a two-track sequencer and MIDI/CV/Gate/Clock connections.

Bear in mind: extra connections are only useful if you have compatible equipment; measure your available desk space too.

A larger keyboard for playing parts

Best for: anyone who wants to play parts with both hands and have more keys within easy reach. Nektar Technology lists 49 keys and transport controls for the Impact GX49.

Bear in mind: allow for more desk space and check that the DAW features work with your software.

What to consider What should you check? Who should pay particular attention?
Will the keyboard fit your workspace? Measure the available width and depth, and leave room for cables. If I want to use the keyboard next to my computer on a cramped desk, the whole unit needs to fit. Around 30% of consumers put available space first.
Controlling rhythms and sounds Check the number and function of the pads and encoders, and whether they work with your DAW. If you want to control rhythms and sound parameters from the keyboard while composing, having the right buttons and pads can help. Around 30% of consumers prioritise hands-on control.
Key range for your parts Compare 25, 37 and 49 keys with the parts you want to play; check the key size too. If I want to play longer melodies or chords with both hands, I want to switch octaves less often. Around 20% of consumers prioritise having more keys within reach.
DAW and sounds Check support for your DAW, what’s included in any software bundle and the usage rights for its sounds. If you need a working computer setup and usable sounds for a game soundtrack, it’s worth checking both the configuration and the licences. Around 20% of consumers prioritise this.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller makes its own sounds

    A standard MIDI controller sends control data to software or other equipment; it does not produce the sound of your soundtrack on its own.

    Before you buy, decide which DAW or equipment you’ll use to hear the notes.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Compact keyboards also vary in width and depth. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 measures 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 at 355 × 220 × 50 mm.

    Measure the available width and depth of your workspace and compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. Leave room for connections.

  • Assuming all included sounds are royalty-free

    Terms of use can vary between software and sound sources. Ableton permits use of the Core Library and Live Packs in your own compositions, subject to certain conditions; demosongs are not covered in the same way.

    Read the licence terms for each sound library you plan to use in your game.

Brands and models to consider

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed for a compact setup, with pads and DAW control.

  • Novation lists 25 mini keys, 16 pads, 8 encoders and dimensions of 339 × 177 mm.
  • The range of keys is limited; check whether the DAW integration suits your software and workflow.

Akai Professional

The MPK mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with controls and connections for a compact setup.

  • Akai Professional lists pads, an internal two-track sequencer and MIDI/CV/Gate/Clock connections.
  • The extra connections are most useful if you have compatible equipment; mini keys are not the same as a larger keyboard.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact controller with keys, pads and controls for software instruments.

  • Arturia lists 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys, two banks of 8 pads, USB-C and a five-pin MIDI output.
  • The stated dimensions are 355 × 220 × 50 mm; check that it will fit the depth of your desk and review the terms for any bundled software.

Nektar

The Impact GX49 is designed for anyone looking for a 49-key keyboard with DAW transport controls, even in a small space.

  • Nektar lists 49 keys, wheels and transport controls.
  • The more advanced features depend on DAW integration; measure your workspace and check support for your software.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard make its own sound?

A standard MIDI controller sends MIDI data to software instruments or other equipment, for example. So check how you’ll make and listen to sound in your setup.

How do you set up a MIDI keyboard with a DAW?

Connect the controller as described in the manual for the exact model, then set it up as a MIDI input in your DAW. Akai Professional describes separate steps for the MPK Mini IV with Ableton Live; don’t assume these also apply to other models or DAWs.

Can you use included sounds in a game?

That depends on the licence for the software and sound source you’re using. Ableton allows Live licence holders to use the Core Library and Live Packs in their own compositions, subject to certain conditions, but using demosongs in compositions is excluded. Check the terms for other packs and samples separately.

What are your rights if a keyboard bought online doesn’t work properly?

According to the Dutch Government, if you buy from a business and a product doesn’t meet expectations, the seller is your point of contact. For distance purchases, you’re also generally entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period; check the terms and any exceptions that apply to your purchase.

What should you check about product safety in the Netherlands?

CE marking is required for products covered by harmonised EU rules that require it; which rules apply depends on the product. The European Union recommends checking the product information and relevant conformity details for a specific offer. CE marking alone says nothing about whether a keyboard is suitable for making music.