Producer with limited desk space
If you switch between sitting and standing, you’ll want to keep some workspace free alongside your laptop and mouse. Compare the width and depth of the exact model with the space available on your desk.
Who is this suitable for?
Beginner learning to play parts
If you want to learn to play melodies and chords, consider whether a smaller keyboard offers enough simultaneous key range for the parts you want to practise.
Beginner using a DAW
If you also want to use pads, transport controls or virtual instruments while practising, check which features work with your music software.
What should you look for when choosing?
For making music at a sit-stand desk, your choice mainly depends on the desk space available, the key range, DAW controls and what you need to hear the sound.
Compact 25-key keyboard
A good fit for: short melodies, basslines or drum patterns, and limited desk space. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm; Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 mm.
The trade-off: parts played with both hands may require more frequent octave shifts or separate recordings because of the limited simultaneous range.
Wider key range with 32 or 37 keys
A good fit for: practising with both hands, if you have enough space. M-Audio lists 32 mini keys for the Oxygen Pro Mini; according to Novation, the Launchkey 37 has 37 keys.
The trade-off: more keys generally take up more workspace; the number of keys alone tells you nothing about how they feel to play.
| Consideration | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Sit-stand desk space | Measure the available width and depth at both desk heights. Allow room for cables and your mouse too. | If I want to keep space free beside my computer, I compare the dimensions of the exact model with my workspace. Around 33% of consumers give available desk space the highest priority. |
| Key range and feel | Decide which parts you want to practise and compare both the number of keys and their size. | If I want to practise parts with both hands, I look at how many keys I can reach at once. Around 27% of consumers give key range the highest priority. |
| Controls and DAW | Make a note of the features you want to control directly, and check DAW support and any setup requirements for the exact model. | If I want to use pads or controls while practising, I check that they work with my music software. Around 27% of consumers give DAW controls the highest priority. |
| A ready-to-use setup | Check which computer port and software you need, and how you’ll manage the sound source and audio output. | If I want to start practising with sound as soon as I’ve connected everything, I also check what software and listening equipment I’ll need. Around 13% of consumers give a complete starter setup the highest priority. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard that produces sound on its own
A standard USB MIDI controller sends data to software on a computer to generate sound. Simply connecting the controller may not be enough for you to hear anything.
Check what comes with the exact model and think about how you’ll set up the connection from the keys to the software instrument and audio output.
You may also need suitable music software, a software instrument or an audio output to use it.
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Looking only at the number of keys
The number of keys, dimensions and key size vary by model. According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 measures 339 × 177 mm, while the Launchkey 37 measures 557 × 251 mm.
Measure the space available on your desk and decide what key range you actually need while playing.
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Assuming every control works straight away with every DAW
Depending on the model and music software, you may need to configure the controls. For the Oxygen Pro Mini, M-Audio describes choosing a DAW and configuring it. Nektar says you need to register and download files for the additional SE25 integration.
Check the support and setup instructions for your DAW and the exact controller.
Allow time to set up the controls and configuration.
Brands to compare
Novation
The Launchkey MK4 range includes compact models as well as versions with more keys.
- Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as measuring 339 × 177 mm, with 16 velocity-sensitive pads.
- According to Novation, the Launchkey 37 has 37 keys and measures 557 × 251 mm; features of that model do not automatically apply to the Mini.
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 combines 25 slim keys with pads and controls.
- Arturia lists this model as measuring 355 × 220 mm and specifies USB-C and a 5-pin MIDI output.
- Compare the stated depth with the space available on your desk, and check your computer’s software requirements.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini IV is a compact controller that combines keys with hands-on controls.
- Akai lists the MPK Mini IV as having 25 velocity-sensitive keys, USB-C and bundled software.
- Don’t confuse this model with the MPK mini mk3; Akai describes differences including the connection and controls.
M-Audio
The Oxygen Pro Mini offers 32 mini keys and controls for music software.
- M-Audio describes DAW assignments for features including transport controls, faders and channels.
- Select the right DAW configuration and check the dimensions of the exact device to make sure it fits your desk.
Nektar
The SE25 is a small keyboard with limited hands-on controls.
- Nektar lists 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys and six buttons.
- For the additional DAW integration, Nektar says you need to register and download the integration files.
Joybuy products
A Joybuy keyboard option for practising and making music with MIDI.
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61-key keyboard piano, black, with MIDI controller
A good fit if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard with MIDI connectivity for practising and exploring music production with software.
The product description lists USB MIDI, a recording function, built-in speakers, a metronome and a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Will a MIDI keyboard make sound as soon as I connect it?
Not necessarily: a standard USB MIDI controller can send data to software on your computer without producing sound itself. With this type of setup, you’ll also need a suitable software instrument and a way to hear the sound.
How do I set up the controls in my DAW?
Select the right MIDI input and, where necessary, configure the controller in your DAW. The steps vary by model: M-Audio describes selecting and configuring a DAW for the Oxygen Pro Mini; for the additional SE25 integration, Nektar says you need to register and download the files.
What can I do if the keyboard is faulty or doesn’t fit on my desk?
If a product is faulty, the seller must provide a solution according to the Government of the Netherlands; there is no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands. For online purchases, you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period. Check the terms of your purchase, and remember that a voluntary manufacturer’s warranty does not replace your statutory rights.
What product safety requirements apply to a MIDI controller in the Netherlands?
According to Business.gov.nl, sellers of electrical and electronic equipment must ensure that products meet the applicable European requirements, including those for safety and electromagnetic compatibility. The requirements and documentation that apply depend on the device.