If you’re making a short pattern in your DAW, choose a MIDI keyboard with confirmed support for your software and the controls you use. If you want to programme notes on the keyboard itself, look for a model with a built-in step sequencer and check that its connections will work with your sound source. You’ll also need to consider how much desk space the key range and extra controls require.
You record a short melody or loop and edit the notes in your music software. Direct clip and transport controls can shape your workflow. Ableton describes MIDI clips as containing note and controller data, while Novation describes DAW control for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4.
You want to programme steps on the keyboard and control compatible external MIDI equipment. A built-in sequencer and suitable connections are important here. Akai and Arturia describe sequencer features on specific models.
You switch between short keyboard phrases and drum pads, while keeping an eye on the space available on your desk. Novation, Akai Professional and Arturia describe keyboards with keys and pads, with features varying by model.
First, decide where you want to programme the notes: in your DAW or on the keyboard. Then compare the controls, connections and dimensions that suit your home studio.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Working in your DAW | Check that your DAW and version are supported, and that the clip, transport and MIDI features you want are available. | I want to record and edit notes in my DAW, with controls that suit my software. Around 36% of consumers choose this workflow as their main reason. |
| Sequencing on the keyboard | Check that the exact model has a built-in step sequencer, and that its MIDI output, any sync options and power supply suit your setup. | I want to programme steps on the device itself and use them to control compatible equipment. Around 29% of consumers put built-in sequencing first. |
| Entering drums with pads | Check the number of pads and how they work with your DAW or sequencer. Novation lists 16 velocity-sensitive pads for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; Akai lists eight pads for the MPK Mini Plus. | I’d rather enter beats with pads than use keys alone. Around 21% of consumers see pad input as their top priority. |
| Keys and desk space | Measure the space available and compare the dimensions and number of keys on the exact version. Arturia lists 25 keys and dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm for the MiniLab 3; according to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys. | I want a keyboard that fits on my desk without compromising on the key range I need. Around 14% of consumers put desk space first. |
Where you programme notes determines whether you need a DAW and which controls you’ll use. Sequencing clips in software is not the same as using a sequencer built into the keyboard.
First, decide whether you want to create steps in your DAW or on the keyboard itself. Then check the sequencer features of the exact model.
MIDI notes control an instrument, but they don’t produce audible sound themselves. You’ll need a sound source in your setup, such as a virtual instrument in a DAW or a compatible external synthesiser.
Before buying, check how you’ll hear the notes in your home studio and which connections you’ll need.
Models from the same brand can have different features. For example, the Arturia MiniLab 3 and KeyStep 37 mk2 offer different types of control, and DAW features can also vary between programmes.
Compare the full model name, sequencer features, connections and support for your DAW.
The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 is designed for compact DAW control and clip or pad use.
The MPK Mini Plus is worth considering if you’re looking for a built-in sequencer and connections for short melody or drum patterns.
The MiniLab 3 is designed for compact DAW control, while the KeyStep 37 mk2 is aimed at those looking for a built-in step sequencer.
The Oxygen Pro Mini is an alternative if you’re looking for a compact keyboard with DAW and transport controls.
Yes, you’ll also need a sound source. In a DAW, this could be a virtual instrument; you can also use a compatible external synthesiser. Check which sound source and connections will suit your setup.
Select a MIDI input and an instrument on a MIDI track, record notes or add them in the MIDI editor, then edit their position and length. The exact controls vary by DAW; this workflow is described for Ableton Live 12.
No, some features are specific to particular DAWs. In its manual, Novation distinguishes between shared controls and features that depend on the DAW you’re using. Check the manual for your software before relying on a particular clip or pad feature.
For a standard online consumer purchase in the Netherlands, you generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery. Check the applicable terms and exceptions, for example if digital products were also supplied with your purchase.
