Start by measuring the desk space you have available and deciding how many keys you need to play melodies without frequently switching octaves. A 25-key controller may suit short melodies and limited space; 32 or 37 keys give you more range at your fingertips, but check the dimensions of the specific model. A MIDI controller does not produce synth sounds on its own: route the sound through your computer or audio interface to headphones, and assess the mechanical key or pad noise separately.
You want to listen to synth parts through headphones rather than speakers in a shared space. A MIDI controller sends performance data to a sound source; even quieter sounds can be disruptive at work, as Arboportaal explains.
You share your desk with office equipment, so you need to weigh up the keyboard’s dimensions against the number of keys. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Korg gives the microKEY-37 dimensions of 565 × 139 × 54 mm.
You want to play melodies with a wider range at your fingertips, so you’re comparing models with 25, 32 or 37 keys. More keys can mean fewer octave changes while you’re playing a phrase.
First, check that the keyboard fits on your desk and that its range suits the melodies you want to play. Then consider the audio setup, the features you need in your DAW and any connections for external hardware.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Sound in the workspace | Check where your computer or audio interface sends the sound, and assess the noise from the keys and pads in the room. Arboportaal notes that disruptive noise at work may also be relevant. | If you work alongside colleagues, you’ll want to listen to synth sounds privately and take the noise from the keyboard itself into account. Around 28% of consumers prioritise limiting noise disturbance. |
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, allowing room for cables, and compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Korg gives the microKEY-37 dimensions of 565 × 139 × 54 mm. | If your desk is already full, you’ll want to know whether the keyboard will fit comfortably. Around 22% of consumers put available desk space first. |
| Melodic range | Compare the range you need for a single phrase with models offering 25, 32 or 37 keys, and check the dimensions of the model you choose. | If you want to play longer phrases without switching octaves mid-way, the range available at your fingertips matters more. Around 22% of consumers prioritise melodic range. |
| DAW control | Check that your DAW and version support the controls you want and that the necessary mappings are set up. Arturia describes additional integration scripts for a selection of DAWs. | If you want to control software features while recording, you’ll want to know whether the buttons and knobs work with your settings. Around 17% of consumers prioritise direct DAW control. |
| External synthesiser | Compare the controller’s MIDI output with the input on your synthesiser. Arturia lists a 5-pin MIDI output for the MiniLab 3; Novation specifies a 3.5 mm TRS Type-A MIDI output for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4. | If you want to control an external synthesiser, the connection must be compatible with your equipment. Around 11% of consumers choose primarily on the basis of this hardware connection. |
A controller sends performance data; a software instrument or another sound source creates the synth sound you hear.
Decide in advance which sound source you’ll use and which audio output you’ll listen through.
Models can differ in both the number of keys and their width and depth. Arturia lists different dimensions for the MiniLab 3 from those Korg gives for the microKEY-37.
Measure the available space on your desk and compare it with the dimensions of the exact model. Where possible, also assess the key noise in a similar room.
The controllers reviewed list different connections for computers and external hardware.
Compare the connections on the controller and your synthesiser before planning how to connect them; check which cable or adaptor you need, if necessary.
The Dutch government states that there is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands; what you can expect from a product depends partly on the product and the circumstances.
Keep your proof of purchase and contact the seller if something goes wrong.
Arturia describes the MiniLab 3 as a controller with 25 velocity-sensitive keys, hands-on controls, USB-C and a 5-pin MIDI output.
Novation says the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 has 37 mini keys, encoders and pads for melodies and DAW control.
The microKEY2 range includes the microKEY-37, a 37-key USB controller.
Native Instruments describes the Komplete Kontrol M32 as a controller with 32 compact keys and controls designed for Komplete and NKS plug-ins, among others.
Akai describes the MPK mini mk3 as a compact USB MIDI controller with an emphasis on pads.
This Joybuy pick is a 61-key keyboard piano with a MIDI controller function, for anyone looking for a keyboard with a wider range. Check that the model fits your desk space and the way you want to listen to synth sounds.
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This model may suit you if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard piano with a MIDI controller function; check in advance that its size and audio setup work for your shared workspace.
61 keys.
MIDI controller function and recording function.
Built-in speakers and metronome.
Music stand included.
Don’t assume you can: a standard MIDI controller sends performance data, while the virtual instrument produces sound through the connected computer. Check where the audio is being played and whether your computer or audio interface has a suitable headphone socket.
Check that your DAW is using the controller as a MIDI input, that a virtual instrument is on the correct track and where the sound is being played. For additional MiniLab 3 controls, Arturia describes extra DAW and port settings.
Avoid using speakers in a shared space if you don’t want to disturb others with synth sounds, and take mechanical key or pad noise into account too. Arboportaal notes that disruptive noise at work may be relevant; this does not mean that any particular keyboard is quiet.
Arboportaal describes employers’ obligations regarding harmful noise and notes that disruptive noise, for example when it affects concentration, can also be an occupational risk to be included in the RI&E. The dB(A) values mentioned relate to exposure to noise; they are not a product certification or a generally permitted noise level for a MIDI keyboard in an office.
For many online purchases made at a distance from a business, you have a 14-day cooling-off period, according to the Dutch government. The Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period: you can expect a product to be fit for purpose and contact the seller if something is wrong. Check the terms that apply to your purchase.
