Who is this for?

Improvisers with limited desk space

You want to record musical ideas without leaving a large keyboard set up in your practice room. Compare the stated width and depth with your available desk space, and check whether mini keys suit the way you play.

Two-handed keyboard players

You want to play bass and melody at the same time, which may call for a wider continuous range of keys. A larger keyboard is only practical if it fits on your desk.

DAW-focused recordists

You want to control recording and software functions while improvising. Check that they work with your version of your DAW, and how the controller works with the sound source you use.

What should you look for when choosing?

Start with the part you want to play and the desk space available. Then check that the controller, your DAW and your chosen sound source work together to let you record.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this most important for?
Space and placement Measure the available width and depth of your desk and compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. If I want to place the controller next to my computer on a narrow desk, a suitable size comes first. Around 33% of consumers in this choice context prioritise fitting it into their space.
Playing range and keys Try out whether the part you want to play fits on 25 or 49 keys, and whether the key size and response suit the way you play. If I want to play bass and melody at the same time, I need enough keys without the keyboard making my workspace unusable. Around 25% of consumers prioritise playing range.
DAW controls Check that the functions you want to use while recording work with your version of your DAW. If I want to control recording functions from the keyboard while improvising, I need to know whether the controls work with my software. Around 25% of consumers prioritise DAW controls.
From keys to sound Check MIDI input, the instrument in your DAW and the audio output. Also check separately whether you want to connect a sustain pedal. If I want to record my improvisation so it can actually be heard, my controller needs to work with my software and sound source. Around 17% of consumers prioritise having a working recording setup.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a keyboard that makes sound on its own

    MIDI data isn’t an audible instrument sound. Without an instrument loaded in your DAW or another sound source, you won’t hear a piano recording automatically.

    Before you buy, check how the controller, computer or sound module, DAW and audio output work together to make your recording.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Controllers with a similar number of keys can have different dimensions. A wider keyboard can also take up a large part of a small workspace.

    Measure your available space and compare the width, depth and key size of the exact model.

  • Assuming a pedal input or DAW function is ready to use straight away

    A connection doesn’t automatically mean the relevant accessory is included. Controls may also depend on your DAW and the version you use.

    Check what’s included with the offer and consult the software instructions for your DAW. For example, M-Audio states that the SP2 pedal for the Keystation 49 MK3 is sold separately.

Brands to consider

These examples show the trade-offs that may come with different product ranges; the brand names alone don’t indicate availability at Joybuy.

Novation

The Launchkey MK4 range includes a compact Mini 25 and a 49-key model with more hands-on controls.

  • Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as 339 mm wide and the Launchkey 49 MK4 as 730 mm wide. According to Novation, the 49 MK4 has nine faders.
  • These model specifications don’t tell you how the keys will feel to play or whether every function works with your software version.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a more compact controller, while the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offers a larger keyboard.

  • Arturia lists dimensions of 355 × 220 mm for the MiniLab 3 and 790 × 240 mm for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3. According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has USB-C, a MIDI output and a pedal input.
  • Check the settings for your DAW and measure your workspace; product specifications aren’t an independent assessment of recording quality.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV combines keys and pads for use with a DAW.

  • Akai lists USB-C, pitch and modulation wheels, and DAW presets for the MPK Mini IV.
  • According to Akai, the stated support for the control script applies to Ableton Live 11 and 12. Check compatibility with other DAW versions separately.

M-Audio

The Keystation 49 MK3 is designed for playing in with 49 full-size keys, USB-MIDI and a pedal connection.

  • M-Audio lists a 6,3 mm input for a sustain pedal.
  • M-Audio gives the SP2 pedal as an example and states that it’s sold separately. Check what’s included with the model you’re considering.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard automatically record audible piano sounds?

No. A standard MIDI controller sends performance data to software or another instrument; it doesn’t make an audible instrument recording on its own. Choose an instrument in your DAW and check the MIDI input and audio output before you start.

What should you check if the MiniLab 3 is connected but there’s no sound?

Check the MIDI port and instrument in your DAW, and make sure the audio output is set up correctly. Arturia recommends connecting the MiniLab 3 directly to a USB port and enabling the ‘Minilab3 MIDI’ port in your DAW’s MIDI settings.

Does the Keystation 49 MK3 come with a sustain pedal?

M-Audio lists a pedal input, but says the SP2 pedal is sold separately. Check exactly what’s included in the offer if you want to use a pedal.

What are your rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

For a qualifying distance purchase from a business, the Dutch government generally provides a 14-day cooling-off period. Purchases from private sellers aren’t covered by this distance-selling rule. The Dutch government also states that there’s no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. However, you may still have legal rights if a product is faulty.

What should you look out for when buying an electronic keyboard from an online shop outside the EU?

Check who the seller is and which consumer rights and product requirements apply to your purchase. The Dutch government mentions the CE marking for electronic products; don’t assume that the relevant requirements have been met just because a website is in Dutch.