Who is this for?

Beginner sound designer

You want to experiment with synth parameters using knobs rather than just a mouse. Check that your software accepts MIDI control.

Producer with a small desk

You use the spare room for other things too, and want to know how much space a controller will take up. Measure the available space on your desk.

Melody and chord player

As well as designing sounds, you want to play parts. In that case, key size and playing range may matter more than extra pads.

What to consider when choosing

What to consider What to look for Best suited to
Knobs for sound parameters Arturia lists eight encoders and four faders for the MiniLab 3; Novation lists eight encoders for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4. Check that the controls work with your software. If I want to explore synth parameters using physical controls as I learn, I’ll look for knobs that my software can receive input from. Around 36% of consumers focus mainly on parameter control.
Desk space Novation lists dimensions of 339 × 177 mm for the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and 461 × 251 mm for the Launchkey 25 MK4. Measure the available width and depth. In a shared spare room, I want to leave enough space for other activities. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the desk space available.
Playing keys and rhythms Novation lists 25 full-size keys for the Launchkey 25 MK4; Native Instruments lists 32 compact keys for the M32, and Korg lists 37 mini keys for the microKEY2-37. Compare the exact model and key size. If I mainly want to play melodies and chords, I’ll want keys that suit my playing style; pads may be useful for rhythms. Around 21% of consumers prioritise playing notes and rhythms.
Software and audible sound Novation Support describes MIDI as control data that does not produce audio. Check which sound source and audio output you’ll use. If I don’t yet have a studio setup, I want to know in advance how I’ll create and hear sound. Around 14% of consumers prioritise having a working software and sound setup.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller makes sound on its own

    MIDI data does not contain audio. Unless you’ve set up a sound source and audio output, pressing the keys won’t automatically produce sound.

    Before buying, decide which software or other sound source you’ll use, and how you’ll listen through speakers or headphones.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Models with the same number of keys can differ in key size and overall dimensions. The key count alone doesn’t tell you how much playing range you’ll have or how much space the keyboard will take up.

    Compare the exact model, key size and the width and depth available on your desk.

  • Assuming every knob will automatically control your favourite plug-in

    Pre-mapped controls depend on the software and its settings. A mapping for certain plug-ins won’t necessarily work with every plug-in.

    Check that your DAW and instrument are supported, and whether you can create your own MIDI mappings.

Brands and product ranges to consider

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is designed for anyone who wants to combine keys and controls on a compact desk.

  • Arturia lists 25 slim keys, eight encoders, four faders and a 5-pin MIDI output for the MiniLab 3.
  • The software integration described won’t necessarily work with every plug-in. Also check that your computer meets the requirements for your setup.

Novation

The Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 and Launchkey 25 MK4 let you choose between mini keys in a smaller body and full-size keys.

  • Novation lists eight encoders and 16 pads for both models.
  • According to the listed dimensions, the Launchkey 25 MK4 takes up more space than the Mini 25 MK4. A Launchkey does not produce audio on its own.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol M32 is a compact controller for anyone using the Komplete or NKS workflow.

  • Native Instruments lists 32 compact keys and eight pre-mapped knobs for Komplete and NKS plug-ins.
  • These pre-mapped controls don’t mean that every other plug-in will automatically work in the same way.

Korg

The microKEY2 range is an option if you’re mainly looking for a USB keyboard controller; the microKEY2-37 has more keys than the 25-key models discussed here.

  • Korg lists 37 mini keys, USB-B and a width of 565 mm for the microKEY2-37.
  • The specifications for this model don’t list a set of knobs or drum pads. Consider whether using a mouse for control will be enough for you.

Joybuy product

This pick is aimed at practising on a 61-key instrument that combines MIDI control with built-in sounds and speakers.

Black 61-key keyboard with MIDI controller, speakers and recording function

61-key keyboard, black, with MIDI controller and recording function

Well suited to practising with keys and MIDI control, while letting you listen through the instrument’s built-in speakers.

61 keys; USB-MIDI; 500 sounds; built-in speakers; headphone socket; recording function; metronome and music stand.

Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Why can’t I hear anything when I play a MIDI keyboard?

A MIDI controller sends control data, not audio. Select a software instrument or another sound source, then set up your audio output. Novation explains these steps for the Launchkey; Arturia also describes the MIDI and audio settings in Analog Lab for the MiniLab 3.

Can I use a Launchkey without a DAW?

Yes. According to Novation, a Launchkey MK4 can control a standalone software instrument or use MIDI to control connected hardware that produces sound. The controller doesn’t make sound itself, so you’ll still need a sound source and a configured audio output.

What should I check when connecting a MiniLab 3 for the first time?

Arturia recommends connecting the controller directly to a USB port on your computer. Then select the MiniLab 3 as the MIDI input in your software and set up the audio output. If you need a hub, Arturia recommends using a powered one.

What warranty applies when buying from a Dutch retailer?

According to the Dutch Government, you’re entitled to a product that works as it should, but the Netherlands has no fixed statutory warranty period. If a product is faulty, the seller must offer an appropriate solution; a manufacturer’s warranty is in addition to these rights.

Do I have a cooling-off period when buying online?

According to the Dutch Government, when you buy from a business remotely, you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions. Check the terms that apply to your purchase before placing your order.