Who is this choice relevant to?

Beginner sound designer

You want to play notes and explore synth parameters using physical controls, without giving up too much desk space. Arturia describes the MiniLab 3 as this kind of combination.

DAW-focused creator

You already work with a DAW and are looking for keys, pads or controls that work well with your software. For example, Novation describes models designed for an FL Studio workflow, as well as models with encoders and pads.

Producer with an existing keyboard

You can already enter notes and are mainly looking for extra physical controls for sounds and effects. The Novation Launch Control XL 3 is an example of a control panel without keys.

What should you consider when choosing?

First decide whether you also need keys. Then check the space available and how the controls work with your DAW and plugins. As Thomann explains, a standard MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound on its own.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Adjusting sound parameters Check how many encoders or faders there are and how to assign them to your DAW and plugins. The MiniLab 3 has eight encoders and four faders; the Launch Control XL 3 has 24 encoders and eight faders. If I want to learn to adjust sound parameters by turning physical controls, I’ll look for controls I can assign directly; around 26% of consumers give this need top priority.
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, allowing space for cables. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Novation gives the Launch Control XL 3’s width as 250 mm and depth as 239 mm. If my practice space is limited, I’ll want to know first whether the controller will fit; around 26% of consumers put this space requirement first.
DAW and plugins Make a note of your DAW and its version, then check the documentation for the controls you want and any custom mappings. The FLkey Mini 25 MK2 is designed for FL Studio. If I want to keep using my existing DAW smoothly, I’ll check that the controls are compatible with it; around 21% of consumers prioritise compatibility with the software they use.
Keys and expression Decide whether you mainly want to play melodies on keys, create patterns on pads or adjust sound parameters with knobs. Check the key size and expression features of the exact model. Anyone who wants to play and vary notes needs different controls from someone who mainly adjusts parameters; around 16% of consumers prioritise notes and expression.
Software and connections Check what’s included with the exact model, how the software is activated and whether USB or a physical MIDI output is compatible with your equipment. If I’m still putting together a complete setup, I’ll want to know in advance what software and connections I need; around 11% of consumers start with this need.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a MIDI controller produces sound on its own

    A standard MIDI keyboard controller sends performance data but doesn’t produce sound itself. You’ll also need suitable software or an appropriate external instrument, as well as a way to listen.

    Before you buy, check how the controller, sound source and listening setup will work together in your practice space.

  • Assuming similar model names or generations are identical

    Models with similar names can differ in their connections and controls. Akai, for example, explains the differences between the MPK Mini MK3 and MPK Mini IV.

    Check the full model name, generation and version on the product page and packaging.

  • Choosing based only on the number of knobs

    A panel with lots of controls may not have keys, may take up a different amount of space and may require custom plugin mappings. More controls don’t automatically mean it’ll suit the way you work.

    Measure the available width and depth, and check how the controls work with your DAW and the plugins you want to use.

Brands to compare

Arturia

A compact keyboard option for anyone who wants to control notes and sound parameters on one device.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 has 25 slim, velocity-sensitive keys, eight encoders, four faders and a physical MIDI output.
  • Its listed dimensions are 355 × 220 × 50 mm. Check that it will fit and that its software integration works with the plugins you use.

Novation

The range includes everything from compact keyboards to a control panel without keys.

  • Novation lists eight encoders on the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4, FL Studio controls on the FLkey Mini 25 MK2 and 24 encoders on the Launch Control XL 3.
  • DAW integration doesn’t mean every plugin will be mapped correctly automatically; check what you’ll need to set up yourself.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini IV is a compact keyboard option with pads and separate pitch and modulation wheels.

  • Akai lists features for the MPK Mini IV including USB-C, a MIDI output and DAW mappings.
  • Don’t assume older MPK Mini generations have the same features; check the full model name.

Native Instruments

The Komplete Kontrol M32 is designed for those who work with Komplete or NKS instruments and effects.

  • According to Native Instruments, the M32 has 32 keys and eight touch-sensitive knobs, pre-mapped for Komplete and NKS plugins.
  • Don’t assume this means similar pre-mapped controls are available for every other plugin.

Ableton

The Push 3 is designed for Ableton Live and features expressive pads.

  • Ableton describes both a standalone version and a version that works with a computer and Live.
  • Check which version you’re looking at and which edition of Live you need; the controller version must be connected to a computer running Live.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard controller produce sound on its own?

No. A standard MIDI keyboard controller sends performance data; the connected software or suitable hardware produces the sound. So also think about how you want to listen in your practice space.

How do you get started with controlling a virtual synthesiser?

Connect a suitable controller, open the instrument in your DAW and check which parameters are already assigned. Set up your own mappings if needed; Arturia mentions user presets for the MiniLab 3, while Novation describes mappings for the Launch Control XL 3.

Should you consider software costs or registration?

Check what’s included and the activation requirements for the exact package. Akai describes registration for the software included with the MPK Mini MK3; Arturia lists Analog Lab Intro and Ableton Live Lite among the software included with the MiniLab 3. Check separately what terms apply to any later upgrades.

What are your rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, many eligible distance purchases come with a 14-day cooling-off period; purchases from a private seller, for example, aren’t covered by this scheme. If a product is faulty, contact the seller about your statutory guarantee. There’s no fixed guarantee period in the Netherlands.