DAW pattern maker
You want to record a short melody or loop and control it from your music software. Novation describes DAW integration for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4; check that your DAW version supports the controls you need.
Who are these MIDI keyboards for?
Hardware sequencer user
You want to programme patterns on the keyboard and perhaps control an external synthesiser. Arturia specifies a polyphonic step sequencer, MIDI DIN and CV/Gate connections for the KeyStep 37 mk2.
Producer short on desk space
You’re looking for a keyboard that fits beside your computer, and need to balance the number of keys against the space available for pads and other controls. The models vary in key count and dimensions, so compare the specific version you’re considering.
What should you look for when choosing?
Compact DAW controller
A good fit if: your computer and DAW record and play back the pattern.
Keep in mind: the controls available depend on support for your DAW and software version.
Keyboard with a step sequencer
A good fit if: you want to programme notes on the device itself or control external equipment.
Keep in mind: a sequencer and MIDI connections aren’t a sound source in themselves; also check what you’ll need to hear the pattern.
Compact controller with keys and pads
A good fit if: you want to play both notes and drum hits on a small desk.
Keep in mind: pads or an arpeggiator don’t automatically mean the keyboard can store step sequences.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Recording a pattern in your DAW | Check support for your DAW version and the MIDI settings for recording and playback. | If you want to record a short loop in your existing music software, you’ll want to know whether the controls work with it; around 36% of consumers prioritise DAW recording. |
| Programming a pattern on the keyboard | Look specifically for a built-in sequencer, pattern storage and a suitable output for your sound source. | If you want to programme a pattern on the keyboard itself, perhaps for external equipment, sequencing is a key consideration; around 29% of consumers say it’s their priority. |
| Desk space in a small room | Measure the available space, including room for cables and a mouse, and compare the dimensions of the exact version. | If you first want to check that the keyboard will fit beside your computer, its dimensions and key range matter; around 21% of consumers say that fitting it into their space is their main concern. |
| Playing drum hits on pads | Check the number of pads, whether there are any banks, and whether you can assign them to drums or clips in your software. | If you mainly want to play rhythms or accents on pads, look at the pads available and how they work; around 14% of consumers put pads first. |
Common buying mistakes
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Confusing an arpeggiator with a stored step sequence
An arpeggiator and a step sequencer are different features. Akai describes an arpeggiator for the MPK Mini IV; Arturia specifies a step sequencer for the KeyStep 37 mk2.
If you want to save a pattern on the keyboard, check that the exact model has a step sequencer and pattern storage.
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Thinking of a MIDI controller as a sound source
A standard MIDI controller sends performance data to software or an external instrument, for example. The controller itself won’t produce the sound of your pattern.
Before buying, decide which device or software will produce the sound and how you want to listen to it.
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Assuming every MIDI keyboard gives you full control of your DAW
Sending notes via MIDI and controlling features such as clips or transport are not the same thing; the controls available can vary by model and software version.
Check support for your DAW version and the setup instructions for the exact keyboard.
Brands to compare
Novation
The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is a compact controller for making patterns in a DAW.
- Novation lists 37 mini keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads and DAW integration.
- Novation says the MK4 Mini doesn’t work fully with Ableton Live 10 or earlier, so check your version.
Arturia
The MiniLab 3 and KeyStep 37 mk2 cater to different needs: compact controls with pads, or a built-in sequencer with connections for external equipment.
- Arturia specifies 25 keys, pads and USB-C for the MiniLab 3; the KeyStep 37 mk2 has a polyphonic step sequencer, MIDI DIN and CV/Gate.
- Compare the models based on the feature you need; they offer different ways to record or play back a pattern.
Akai Professional
The MPK Mini IV combines controls for compact DAW production with pads and keys.
- Akai lists 25 velocity-sensitive keys, pads, a MIDI output and an advanced arpeggiator.
- An arpeggiator doesn’t confirm that the model has a built-in step sequencer. Also check the separate system requirements for any included software.
M-Audio
The Oxygen Pro Mini is an option if you’re looking for 32 mini keys and controls for DAW transport, faders and channels.
- M-Audio describes USB power and automatic assignment of control functions.
- According to M-Audio, integration also requires the correct DAW configuration.
Nektar
The Impact LX Mini is designed for a small desk, with mini keys, pads and DAW controls.
- Nektar lists 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, transport buttons and a footswitch socket.
- The arpeggiators listed don’t confirm that the keyboard has a built-in step sequencer.
MIDI keyboards at Joybuy
Here you’ll find a 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller and recording functions. If you want to store patterns on the keyboard itself, check that the features on the version you choose are suitable.
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61-key electronic keyboard, black, with MIDI controller and recording functions
This model combines MIDI controller and recording functions with built-in speakers and a headphone socket.
The listed version is black and has 61 keys. If you want to store patterns on the keyboard itself, check whether the recording function includes step sequencing.
Frequently asked questions
Does a MIDI keyboard produce sound by itself?
A standard MIDI controller sends performance data to music software or an external instrument, for example. Check which device in your setup produces the sound and how you’ll listen to it.
What should I check when connecting to my DAW?
Check that your model works with your DAW version and, if necessary, configure the MIDI or control surface ports. Novation says the Launchkey MK4 Mini is recognised automatically by Ableton Live 11 or 12, but doesn’t work fully with Live 10 or earlier.
What are my rights when buying online or if a product is faulty in the Netherlands?
When you buy online from a business, you generally have 14 days to change your mind, although exceptions may apply. If a product is faulty, you can contact the seller. The Dutch government states that there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands.
What should I look for in the product safety of an electronic controller?
The European Commission sets out RoHS restrictions for electrical and electronic equipment, unless a product is exempt. According to the European Union, CE marking is only compulsory when applicable harmonised product rules require it; CE marking is not a performance test.