Who is this buying guide for?

Composer with a small desk

Creates short game cues in a DAW and wants a keyboard that can be used beside the computer and put away afterwards.

Player recording longer parts

Wants to record melodies and chords directly with both hands, and is weighing up the keyboard range against the space available.

Quiet ideas-maker without a computer

Wants to play a musical idea independently from time to time and listen through headphones before developing it further in software.

What should you look for when choosing?

First decide whether you’ll always play through a computer or another sound source, or whether you also want to listen without a computer. Then consider the desk space available, the keyboard range and the controls that work with your DAW.

Consideration What to look for when buying Who is this important for?
Listening quietly Check whether your headphones connect to the computer, audio interface or keyboard, and where the sound comes from. If I want to listen through headphones in a shared home, I need to know which equipment produces the sound. Around 25% of consumers prioritise being able to listen quietly.
Fitting on and around your desk Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. When I have limited workspace, the keyboard needs to fit beside my computer and be easy to put away. Around 25% of consumers prioritise desk space.
Range for playing parts and chords Compare the number and size of the keys with the parts you want to play directly. For longer melodies and chords, I want to be able to play enough notes at once without constantly changing octaves. Around 19% of consumers mainly choose based on playing range.
Compatibility with music software Check which controls your version of the DAW supports and whether you need to configure any features first. If I make my soundtrack in a DAW, I want to use the controls that work with my software. Around 19% of consumers prioritise DAW controls.
Direct control of beats and sounds Compare the number of pads and controls, and check whether you can assign them to the functions you want. For rhythms and adjusting software sounds, I want the controls within easy reach. Around 12% of consumers prioritise beat-making and sound control.

Common mistakes when choosing

  • Assuming a standard MIDI controller is a keyboard that makes sound on its own

    A standard controller, such as the Akai MPK mini mk3, sends MIDI data to software and does not make sound on its own. According to Akai, the Akai MPK Mini Play MK3 does have built-in sounds and a headphone output.

    Check the full model number and work out in advance how the sound will get from the keys to your headphones.

  • Measuring only the width of your desk

    Depth can also determine whether a compact model will fit your workspace. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as 339 mm wide and 177 mm deep; Arturia gives the MiniLab 3 dimensions of 355 × 220 mm.

    Measure the available width and depth where you play, then compare them with the dimensions of your chosen model.

  • Assuming DAW integration based on the brand name alone

    Controls depend on the specific model and the music software you use. Note-entry features are also different from transport controls or plugin controls.

    Check compatibility with your DAW and version, and find out what settings you need for the features you want to use.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is a compact option for DAW work, with keys, pads and controls.

  • Novation lists the Mini 25 MK4 as having 25 mini keys, 16 pads, 8 encoders and dimensions of 339 × 177 mm.
  • Check that the DAW integration listed applies to your software version; features can vary between models.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with controls and included software for use with a DAW.

  • Arturia lists 25 slim velocity-sensitive keys, 8 encoders, 4 faders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
  • The listed dimensions are 355 × 220 mm. Check separately that the software and computer setup are compatible with yours.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Play MK3 is designed for anyone who sometimes wants to play ideas independently and listen through headphones.

  • Akai lists the MPK Mini Play MK3 as having built-in sounds, a built-in speaker, a headphone output and MIDI controller functionality.
  • According to Akai, the standard MPK mini mk3 does not make sound on its own. The MPK mini mk3, MPK Mini Play MK3 and MPK Mini IV are different models, so check the connections on the exact version.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro 49 is a good fit if a wider playing range matters more to you than keeping your setup as compact as possible.

  • M-Audio specifies 49 keys and controls for music software.
  • Allow for the workspace it needs. The automatic controls described also require the right settings in your DAW.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini combines mini keys with pads and transport controls for a compact workflow.

  • Nektar lists this model as having 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, 8 pads and 8 buttons.
  • Check that the DAW integration described works with the software you actually use.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I hear my soundtrack through headphones with just a MIDI keyboard?

Not with a standard controller such as the Akai MPK mini mk3: it sends MIDI data to software, which produces the sound. Connect your headphones to the audio output of your sound source. The Akai MPK Mini Play MK3 has its own headphone output for its built-in sounds.

What should I consider when connecting and setting up a MIDI keyboard?

Check the connection, then select the keyboard as a MIDI input in your DAW. Next, configure the controls you need and check whether the included software requires registration for the exact model; Akai says registration is required for the MPK mini mk3 software.

What costs and rights should I be aware of after buying in the Netherlands?

First check which software and audio equipment you already have, as a controller such as the Akai MPK mini mk3 needs software to make sound. According to the Dutch government, for many eligible online purchases from a business, you have a 14-day cooling-off period. You also have a statutory warranty, but there is no fixed statutory warranty period that applies to all products.

Can I use existing music or samples by other people in my game?

You need permission from the creator to use other people’s copyright-protected music. The Dutch government explains that protected work cannot be used without permission; BumaStemra states that a licence is required to use music in a game or app. Before publishing, also check the rights and terms for the specific music and samples you want to use.