Who should consider a compact MIDI keyboard?

Producer with a small desk

Wants to play pad parts with little room alongside their computer and other equipment. So the first things they compare are the keyboard’s width and depth.

Sound designer who adjusts layers live

Wants to adjust the balance and parameters of several software instruments while playing. They need controls that can be assigned to the functions they want in their DAW.

Chord player with a compact set-up

Wants to play pad chords and weigh up the playing range they need against the size of mini keys and the extra space taken up by more keys.

What should you look for when choosing?

Measure the space available, then think about the controls and playing range you need. Also check that your DAW or sound source can play and control the layers you want.

What to consider What to look for Who will find this important?
Size and placement Measure the available width and depth. Allow for the space needed by connections and cables. If I’m sharing a small desk with a computer and other equipment, I want to know in advance whether the keyboard will fit. Around 33% of consumers focus mainly on desk space.
Controlling sound layers Check whether your DAW can play instruments at the same time and whether you can assign knobs or faders to the parameters you want. If you want to mix layers or adjust sound parameters while playing, it helps to set up suitable assignments in your software. Around 27% of consumers prioritise control over individual sound layers.
Playing range for chords Compare the number of keys and try playing your widest intended chord or part. Consider whether switching octaves while playing would be acceptable. If my pad chords need more keys at once, playing range may matter more than having the smallest body. Chord range is the main consideration for around 20% of consumers.
Connections and software Check the connection, compatibility with your computer and DAW, any required set-up, and the terms of any software bundles. If you mainly want to use the controller with a specific computer and DAW, you’ll want to know in advance whether they work together and what set-up is needed. Connections and software are the first consideration for around 20% of consumers.

Buying pitfalls

  • Lots of pads don’t automatically mean multiple layers under every key

    Controlling pads and keys separately requires suitable MIDI channels and configured DAW tracks. You create a pad sound with several instruments playing at once in your software.

    First decide whether you want to play layers from one key or use pads for separate sounds. Then check how to set this up in your DAW.

    Setting up MIDI routing and instrument layers may take extra preparation.

  • Looking only at the number of keys

    A compact keyboard may offer a smaller playing range, while models with the same number of keys don’t necessarily take up the same amount of desk space.

    Measure the available width and depth, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact model.

  • Assuming a software bundle means software is ready to use or unrestricted

    Software may require registration, installation or a particular licence. Also check that its features suit your sound project.

    Before relying on included software, check the bundle, registration process and computer requirements for the specific model on offer.

    Depending on the bundle, installation or registration may involve extra steps. Check in advance which software you’ll actually be able to use.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed for a compact set-up, with keys, encoders and pads.

  • Novation lists this model as measuring 339 × 177 mm, with 25 mini keys, eight encoders and 16 pads.
  • Whether the controls can adjust layers depends on the functions you assign in your software.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 combines a compact keyboard with rotary controls and separate faders.

  • Arturia lists dimensions of 355 × 220 mm, 25 keys, eight encoders and four faders.
  • Its listed depth is greater than the 177 mm of the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, according to Novation. Also check the terms for software mentioned as being available upon registration.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini combines 32 mini keys with controls for DAW functions.

  • M-Audio lists dimensions of 401 × 190 mm and describes controls for functions including faders and channels.
  • The DAW integration described requires the right DAW and configuration. Check that it will fit your workspace.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is designed for those who want to control pads separately as well as play keys.

  • Akai describes a set-up process for using keys and pads on separate MIDI channels.
  • You’ll need to configure your DAW tracks accordingly; this isn’t an automatic layering function.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini offers controls for anyone looking for knobs and pads alongside mini keys.

  • Nektar lists 25 mini keys, eight rotary controls, eight pads and a footswitch input.
  • The DAW controls described don’t guarantee that every layer you want can be controlled without configuration.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard create a layered pad sound by itself?

Not through the controller functions alone: you set up the sound layers you want in your software or sound source. Ableton explains how Instrument Racks can play multiple instrument chains in parallel. Check that your software supports this and that you can assign the controls you need.

How do I set up separate layers or pads?

Use a DAW that supports the routing you need, then configure the instruments, MIDI channels and tracks accordingly. Ableton describes parallel instrument chains for Instrument Racks; Akai explains how to route keys and pads to different MIDI tracks on the MPK Mini IV. The steps depend on your software and model.

Can I start using the included software straight away?

First check the licence, installation process and computer requirements for the specific model. Ableton states that Live Lite is included with certain products and that the serial number may be available on the packaging or through registration. Arturia mentions software for registered MiniLab 3 owners; check the terms that apply to the offer.

What is the cooling-off period for online purchases in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, a cooling-off period of 14 days generally applies to eligible distance purchases, with some exceptions. The government gives buying online from a private individual as an example that isn’t covered by these distance-selling rules. Check who the seller is and which terms apply to your purchase.

What should I do with my old electric keyboard?

According to the Dutch government, private consumers can return an old, similar electrical appliance through the shop or online retailer when buying a new one. There are also collection points and local council options. If your new purchase is being delivered online, ask how the old appliance can be taken away.