A compact MIDI keyboard is a better fit if you have limited desk space and want to put it away after use. A 49-key model gives you more room to play continuously with both hands. To listen quietly, you’ll also need software that plays MIDI sounds and headphones connected to your computer or audio interface. Check the connection and compatibility with your recording software too.
Wants to record a part and listen back through headphones without using speakers. A standard MIDI controller needs software to produce sound. Akai Professional explains this for the MPK Mini MK3, while Ableton covers monitoring through headphones.
Wants to switch octaves less often during longer improvisations, so having enough keys within reach is useful. Novation lists 49 keys for the Launchkey 49 MK4.
Wants to put the controller away after playing, so compares its dimensions with the available workspace. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as 339 mm wide; Arturia gives a width of 355 mm for the MiniLab 3.
A standard MIDI controller sends performance data; the sound comes from software. You can listen through headphones connected to your computer or audio interface, but wearing headphones doesn’t necessarily stop housemates hearing the keys being pressed.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Listening and recording quietly | Check which software you can use and whether your computer or audio interface has a suitable headphone socket. | If you want to record without speakers in a shared home, check how your software plays the sound and where you’ll connect your headphones. Around 31% of consumers prioritise silent recording. |
| Key range | Try playing two-handed phrases on 25 and 49 keys, and see which range suits your playing style. | If you want to play longer phrases with both hands, more keys can mean fewer octave changes. Around 31% of consumers prioritise playing range. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, leaving room for cables and your computer. | If you want to put the controller away after use, it needs to fit your shared workspace. Around 23% of consumers prioritise desk space. |
| DAW controls | Check the exact model variant, your recording software and any required settings or software versions. | If you want to control recording features directly from the keyboard, check that it integrates with the DAW you use. Around 15% of consumers prioritise DAW controls. |
A standard MIDI controller sends performance data to software; it doesn’t produce audible sound on its own. So, without a suitable software sound source and audio output, you can’t record and listen back using just the keyboard.
Decide in advance which software will generate the sound and where you’ll connect your headphones. Also check whether you already have the software and headphones you need.
If not, your setup may also need suitable headphones, software or an audio interface.
A larger keyboard gives you more keys to play at once, but it also takes up more desk space. Novation lists the Launchkey 49 MK4 as 730 mm wide and the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as 339 mm wide.
Measure the space available and try playing the phrases you want to record across the range you’re considering.
Ableton explains that an audio buffer that’s too small can cause crackling or dropouts. So a lower setting won’t work smoothly in every setup.
Test the audio settings with the computer and software you’ll actually be using, and find a setting that works well.
The Launchkey MK4 range includes a Mini 25 and a 49-key model. This makes it worth considering if you’re weighing up size against playing range.
The MiniLab 3 is a 25-key controller for a compact software setup.
The Impact LX mk3 range includes a 49-key version with a focus on DAW controls.
The MPK Mini MK3 is a compact USB-MIDI controller with pads. It’s worth comparing if you also want to enter rhythms.
No. According to Akai, a standard MIDI controller such as the Akai MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound itself. Use software with a sound source and listen through headphones connected to the audio output on your computer or audio interface. You’ll also need to set up MIDI input and monitoring in your DAW.
Check your DAW’s audio settings. Ableton explains that a larger buffer can cause more latency, while a buffer that’s too small can cause crackling or dropouts. Try different settings with your computer and audio device to find one that works.
Check that you have suitable recording software, a software sound source and headphones. A standard MIDI controller needs software to generate sound. Also check whether your computer or audio interface has a suitable headphone socket.
Wearing headphones doesn’t give you a general exemption from noise agreements. The Government of the Netherlands advises people to discuss noise problems together first and says that tenants must not cause a nuisance. Follow the agreements for your home and any building rules.
According to the Government of the Netherlands, the cooling-off period for distance purchases is usually 14 days. Check the terms that apply to your purchase and the information provided by the seller.
