Who is this for?

Two-handed improviser

Wants to play chords and melody in a single take, so pays attention to the key range and feel.

DAW-focused home recordist

Wants to record notes played and control software instruments; checks the MIDI setup, sound source and compatibility with their DAW.

Player with limited workspace

Needs to fit a keyboard into a compact spare-room setup and weighs up a smaller keyboard against the playing range of larger models.

What to consider when choosing

Start with the key range you need and the space available. Then check the DAW and audio settings you’ll need to record and listen back to your playing.

What to consider What to check before buying Who is it important for?
Playing range and key feel Compare the number of keys and the stated key action of the exact model. Check for a pedal input if sustain is part of your playing. I want to play chords and melody in a single improvisation without constantly switching range. Around 33% of consumers recording in this situation prioritise playing range and key feel above all else.
Recording in your own DAW Check the MIDI setup and software instrument. For additional controls, check that your DAW and software version are supported. I want to capture the notes I play and hear them through a software instrument. Around 27% of consumers prioritise their recording workflow.
Space in the spare room Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the model you’re considering. I have a limited workspace and want to know in advance whether the keyboard will fit. Around 20% of consumers prioritise the space available.
Listening while you play Check the audio output and set the audio device and buffer appropriately in your software. Ableton explains that a larger buffer can increase latency. I want to hear my software instrument comfortably while improvising. Around 20% of consumers prioritise monitoring their playing as they go.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing a MIDI controller with an instrument that records audible sound on its own

    A MIDI recording stores performance and control data. You’ll only hear it when a sound source, such as a software instrument, plays it back.

    Decide in advance whether you want to record MIDI notes or audio as well. For MIDI recording, check which software sound source and audio output you’ll be using.

  • Choosing based on pads and faders alone

    Extra controls don’t replace the key range you need for the parts you want to improvise.

    Choose a suitable keyboard first, then compare the controls supported by your DAW.

  • Assuming a pedal input means a sustain pedal is included

    M-Audio lists a pedal input for the Keystation 49 MK3; the pedal mentioned is sold separately.

    Check whether a pedal is included with the specific model and offer, and which connection you’ll need.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey MK4 range is worth considering if you’re looking for a broad playing range and direct DAW control. Novation lists semi-weighted keys, encoders, faders and pads among the features of the Launchkey 49.

  • The Launchkey MK4 range includes models with 49 and 61 keys.
  • Specifications vary by model. Novation lists the Launchkey 49 as 730 mm wide and 264 mm deep, so measure your workspace.

Arturia

Arturia says the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 combines 49 velocity-sensitive keys with DAW controls and included software instruments.

  • Arturia lists scripts for specific DAWs and a pedal input.
  • Check that your DAW and version are supported, and exactly what’s included in the software bundle on offer.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is a compact option for short keyboard parts and pad control. Akai Professional lists 25 velocity-sensitive keys.

  • Its compact key range could suit a limited workspace.
  • The range may be limited for playing a continuous part with both hands. Also check the DAW and software requirements for the controls you want to use.

M-Audio

For the Keystation 49 MK3, M-Audio highlights 49 velocity-sensitive keys, USB-MIDI and basic controls for music software.

  • The manufacturer lists an input for a sustain pedal.
  • The pedal mentioned in the product specifications is sold separately. The controls are more basic than those on models with a wider selection of pads and faders.

Nektar

The Impact LX mk3 range is designed for anyone who wants to control faders and pads as well as keys, with integration for supported DAWs.

  • Nektar lists models with 25, 49, 61 and 88 keys.
  • Integration depends on the DAW and version. Check the model you’re considering and whether your software is supported.

Joybuy products

This selection focuses on a 61-key keyboard for anyone looking for a broad playing range when recording an improvisation.

Black keyboard with 61 keys

Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller functionality

Could suit anyone looking for a broader key range for improvising than a compact 25-key keyboard offers.

The product title lists 61 keys and MIDI controller functionality. Check that the connection and setup work with your DAW and audio equipment.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard record the sound of my improvisation?

No. A MIDI recording stores note and control information. To hear it, use that data to control a software instrument and set up an audio output. Ableton describes MIDI recording and audio recording as separate parts of the process.

What should I check if I press the keys but hear nothing?

In your DAW, check that the correct MIDI port is active, that the track has a software instrument and that the audio output is set up. Arturia outlines these steps for the KeyLab Essential mk3 with Analog Lab; menus may vary by model.

Can I fix audio latency simply by buying a different keyboard?

Not necessarily: latency can also be affected by the audio interface, operating system, plug-ins and buffer setting. Ableton recommends taking your signal chain and settings into account when troubleshooting.

Who can help if a keyboard I bought online isn’t working properly?

According to the Government of the Netherlands, if there’s a problem with a product, you should contact the seller to find a solution. For distance purchases, you’ll often also have a 14-day cooling-off period; whether this applies depends on the purchase.