Start by working out how much space you can free up on the shared desk, then decide whether you mainly want to enter notes or control dynamics as you play. A compact keyboard takes up less room, while a larger keybed or separate faders can give you more playing space or hands-on control. Always check that the controls work with your string library and DAW.
You want to enter string parts, then clear the keyboard from the shared desk. So compare the dimensions and key size of each version. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 as 478 mm wide, compared with 557 mm for the Launchkey 37 MK4.
You want to control dynamics or expression with a physical control as you play string phrases. Check how your library maps MIDI functions; Spitfire Audio, for example, describes separate functions for CC1 and CC11.
You prioritise playing space and key size over the smallest setup. Compare a 49-key version with smaller options, and bear in mind how much room the keybed will take up on your desk.
First measure the available space, then decide how many keys you need, and finally check that the controls work with your string library and DAW.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth, including room for cables. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 as 478 × 177 mm and the Launchkey 49 MK4 as 730 × 264 mm. | If I need to put the keyboard away after use, a compact footprint is my top priority. Around 33% of consumers prioritise saving space. |
| Dynamics and expression | Check which MIDI functions your library uses and whether you can assign them to a wheel, fader, encoder or DAW automation. Spitfire Audio describes Learn MIDI CC as a way to assign a control. | If I want to shape dynamics or expression as I play, I want the right control within easy reach. Around 27% of consumers put this type of control first. |
| Playing space and key size | Compare 37 mini keys with 37 full-size keys and a 49-key version. Novation lists all three options for the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4, Launchkey 37 MK4 and Launchkey 49 MK4. | If I play parts with both hands, range and key size matter more to me than having the smallest unit. Around 27% of consumers choose mainly on playing space and key size. |
| Software and controls | Check compatibility with your DAW and string plug-in, then test the MIDI assignments you want to use. Native Instruments lists pre-mapped encoders for Komplete and NKS plug-ins on the Komplete Kontrol A49. | If I want to keep using my existing software settings, the controls need to work with them. Around 13% of consumers prioritise compatibility with their existing workflow above all else. |
A physical knob or fader needs to match the MIDI function used by your library. Spitfire Audio, for example, distinguishes between CC1 for dynamic layers and CC11 for expression volume.
Check the CC functions for your own patch and test whether you can assign the control you want to use.
Allow time for MIDI mapping or setting up DAW automation.
The number of keys doesn’t tell you how wide or deep the unit is. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4, Launchkey 37 MK4 and Launchkey 49 MK4 differ in both dimensions and key size.
Measure the free space on your desk, including room for cables, and compare it with the dimensions of the exact version you’re considering.
Arturia lists one input for the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3, which can be used for sustain, expression or a footswitch. This doesn’t mean you can use two separate pedals at the same time through that one input.
Check the number of inputs and the compatibility of the pedal combination you want to use.
The Launchkey MK4 range includes versions with 37 mini keys, 37 full-size keys and 49 keys.
The KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 is a 49-key version with faders, user presets and DAW scripts.
The MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with wheels and connections for external equipment.
The Komplete Kontrol A49 is worth comparing if you work with Komplete or NKS instruments.
No, faders aren’t essential. Spitfire Audio describes both MIDI mapping with Learn MIDI CC and drawing CC1 automation in FL Studio. The right controls depend on your library and DAW.
Choose based on how much playing space you need and how much room you can make available. A 49-key version gives you more keys within reach than a 37-key version, but factor in the dimensions of the exact model when planning your desk space.
Don’t count on getting two separate pedal functions from the same input: Arturia specifies one pedal input that can be used for sustain, expression or a footswitch. Before buying, check the connections and compatibility of the pedals you want to use.
Akai requires a firmware update before using the MPK Mini Plus. For other models, check the relevant manual rather than assuming this model-specific instruction applies.
Check the MIDI functions in your string library’s manual, then assign the function you want in the library or DAW. Spitfire Audio describes CC1 for dynamic layers and CC11 for expression volume; test the assignment with the patch you’re using.
