Melody and chord composer
You want to play soundtrack parts on keys and need a range that suits both your music and your available workspace. Novation and Arturia offer different key counts and configurations across their keyboard ranges.
Who is this buying guide for?
Student with a changing workspace
You take your controller with you or work at a small desk, and need to balance a compact size with a useful playing range. Akai Professional, Arturia and Novation offer models in different key sizes.
DAW- and rhythm-focused creator
You want to enter drum parts using pads or control features in your DAW from the keyboard. M-Audio and Nektar describe controls specific to each model; check that they work with your DAW and version.
What should you look for in a MIDI keyboard?
Compact keyboard with 25 or 37 mini keys
Best for: playing short motifs, basslines or rhythms, and taking your keyboard between workspaces. Akai Professional lists 25 keys for the MPK Mini IV; Novation lists 37 mini keys for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4.
The trade-off: you’ll need to change octaves to play parts outside your immediate range. Compare the key size and DAW integration of the exact model too.
Keyboard with 49 or 61 keys
Best for: playing longer melodies and chords with more keys immediately to hand, provided you have room for a larger instrument. Arturia lists 49 velocity-sensitive keys for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3; Novation lists 61 semi-weighted keys for the Launchkey 61 MK4.
The trade-off: a larger keyboard needs more workspace. Velocity-sensitive and semi-weighted describe different features; neither tells you on its own how much a keyboard feels like a piano.
Controller focused on pads and DAW controls
Best for: playing rhythms or controlling software features from your keyboard while composing. The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKV and Nektar Impact LX mk3 have pads and controls specific to each model.
The trade-off: extra controls are useful if they work with your DAW and version. Also check which software is included and whether you can install it on the music room computer.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Playing range and key size | Compare the number of keys, whether they are mini or full-size, and the dimensions of the exact model. | If I want to play melodies and chords without changing octaves often, I’m looking for a keyboard with enough range readily available. Playing range is the top buying priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Portability and workspace | Measure the space available and compare it with the dimensions of the exact model. | If I take my keyboard with me or share a small desk, I want it to fit comfortably without taking up more workspace than necessary. Portability and available space come first for around 25% of consumers. |
| DAW and software | Check your DAW, version, operating system and computer installation options against the model’s compatibility and any bundled software. | If I want to control features from my keyboard, I need to know whether they work with the software running on the music room computer. DAW controls are the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Pads for rhythms | Compare the number of pads, their velocity sensitivity and how they’re assigned in your software. | If I want to play rhythms with my fingers, I’m looking for pads that suit the way I work and my DAW. Rhythm input is the top priority for around 17% of consumers. |
MIDI keyboard buying pitfalls
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a standalone keyboard that makes sound
A standard MIDI controller sends performance and control data, but doesn’t produce instrument sounds itself. You’ll also need a suitable sound source and audio output at your workspace.
Check which software instruments and audio equipment are already available in the music room.
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Assuming bundled software will work straight away on a university computer
For Live 12 Lite, Ableton requires a valid licence code, authorisation and system requirements to be met. On a shared computer, you may also need permission to install and register the software.
Before buying, check the software bundle, system requirements, and whether you can install and set up an account at your intended workspace.
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Treating different model generations as identical
Akai Professional describes differences between the MPK Mini MK3 and MPK Mini IV. Key sizes also vary between models in Novation’s Launchkey range.
Compare the full model name and generation, not just the brand name or product photo.
MIDI keyboard brands to consider
Novation
The Launchkey MK4 range includes compact Mini models and larger keyboards with DAW-focused controls.
- Novation lists mini keys for its Mini models and 61 semi-weighted keys for the Launchkey 61 MK4.
- Playing range and size vary by model; don’t assume every keyboard in the range offers the same playing space or software features.
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 pairs a compact keyboard with pads and controls, while the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has a larger keyboard and faders.
- Arturia lists 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys and a 5-pin MIDI output for the MiniLab 3. The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 velocity-sensitive keys and scripts for the DAWs listed.
- Check that the software feature you want works with the DAW on your computer.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini IV combines a compact keyboard with pads for a smaller workspace.
- Akai Professional lists a velocity-sensitive keyboard, USB-C and bundled software for the MPK Mini IV.
- These features apply to the IV; carefully compare it with other MPK Mini generations.
M-Audio
The Oxygen 49 MKV combines keys with controls for playing parts and using software features.
- M-Audio lists eight pads, eight assignable knobs and nine faders for this model.
- Check whether the controls you want work automatically with your DAW.
Nektar
The Impact LX mk3 range includes 25-, 49-, 61- and 88-key models, with controls for supported DAWs.
- Nektar lists USB-C, pads, faders and DAW integration specific to each model.
- Some of the listed programs require a minimum version. Working with other DAWs doesn’t automatically mean that all control features are integrated.
61-key keyboards on Joybuy
This selection features 61-key digital keyboards with USB-MIDI, for anyone looking to combine a generous playing range with a connection to music software. Check that the exact computer and DAW work with your chosen model.
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MLS-931 digital keyboard, 61 keys
The 61-key keyboard gives you a useful playing range for melodies and chords, and USB-MIDI is listed for connecting to music software.
Weighted keys; 300 sounds; 300 rhythms; LCD; speakers; headphone jack.
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Electronic keyboard with 61 keys and MIDI controller function
The 61-key keyboard is designed for parts that need a wider playing range at your fingertips; the product description lists USB-MIDI.
500 sounds; 300 rhythms; recording function; speakers; metronome; music stand.
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Digital keyboard with 61 keys and stand set
The 61 keys offer a useful range for melodies and chords, and USB-MIDI is listed for connecting to music software.
300 tones; 300 rhythms; 3-level learning mode; LCD; the set includes a stand, bench and music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI keyboard make sound by itself when you’re composing?
A standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce instrument sounds itself; it sends performance and control data to a computer or compatible instrument. Make sure a software instrument and audio output are also available at your workspace.
What should you check before connecting a keyboard to a university computer?
Check that the computer has the necessary connection, that the keyboard works with your DAW, and that you’re allowed to install and register any software. If you’re relying on the included Ableton Live 12 Lite, Ableton requires a valid licence code, authorisation and a compatible system.
Can you use included sounds in a published game without checking first?
Don’t assume so just because they came with the keyboard. Ableton permits the use of content from the Core Library and Live Packs in original compositions under certain conditions, but excludes, among other things, the use of demo songs in compositions. Check the separate terms for any other samples, instruments and software you use too.
What are your rights when buying online in the Netherlands?
When a consumer buys remotely from a business, the seller must provide information about matters including the cooling-off period, which is usually 14 days according to the Dutch government. The statutory guarantee also applies: how long a product should last depends on the product, and the seller is your point of contact if something goes wrong.