Who is this buying guide for?

Lead player looking for expressive control

You play synth melodies and want to control pitch or modulation as you perform a phrase. Consider the key range, key size and controls that feel comfortable to use.

Flatmate who wants to practise quietly

You want to listen to your synth through headphones. So look beyond the keyboard itself: consider the sound source and the audio output you’ll use to connect your headphones.

Player short on desk space

You need to fit the keyboard alongside a computer, so weigh its dimensions against how many keys you want within easy reach while playing.

What should you look for?

First decide how you’ll generate and listen to the sound. Then compare key size, expressive controls, available space and the connections your setup needs.

What to consider What to look for when buying Who should consider this?
Playing range and expression Compare the number and size of the keys, and check whether the model has wheels or touch-sensitive controls for pitch and modulation. If you want to reach notes and adjust pitch or modulation during a phrase without interrupting your playing, key range and controls matter. Around 33% of consumers prioritise expression and playing range.
Listening quietly Work out whether you’re using a software or hardware synth, and where you’ll connect your headphones. MIDI sends control data, not audio. If you want to play through headphones in a shared home, check the whole audio chain and agree on what sound others might hear. Around 27% of consumers prioritise quiet listening.
Desk space and reach Measure the available width and depth, including space for cables, and compare these with the dimensions of the exact model. If your keyboard needs to fit alongside your computer, a narrower model may be appealing. Just consider how many keys you want to reach without changing octaves. Desk space is the top consideration for around 20% of consumers.
Connecting to hardware Check your synth’s MIDI input, the required cable type and the power supply. Check the audio output separately. If you want to control an existing hardware synth directly, check that the controller and synth connections are compatible. Around 20% of consumers prioritise hardware connectivity.

Common buying mistakes

  • Mistaking a MIDI controller for a synthesiser

    MIDI carries control data, not sound. A controller on its own won’t let you hear a synth lead.

    Before you buy, map out the whole chain: controller, software or hardware synth, audio output and headphones.

  • Assuming all 37-key models feel and measure the same

    The Novation Launchkey 37 MK4 has full-size keys, while the Akai MPK Mini Plus 37 has mini keys. The number of keys doesn’t tell you everything about their size or the controls.

    Check the key size, pitch and modulation controls, and the desk space needed for the exact model you’re considering.

  • Confusing a MIDI output with an audio output

    A MIDI connection can control a compatible synth, but it won’t send sound to your headphones.

    Check MIDI and audio connections separately, especially if you’re using a hardware synth.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey 37 MK4 is an option if you want to play leads on 37 full-size keys and control your DAW.

  • Novation says this model has two wheels, eight encoders and a 5-pin MIDI output.
  • Its stated width is 557 mm. The controller doesn’t produce synth sounds itself.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini Plus combines 37 mini keys with controls and connections for compatible hardware. The MPK Mini IV is a separate, more compact model.

  • Akai lists pitch and modulation wheels on both models mentioned. According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus has MIDI and CV/Gate connectivity.
  • Check that mini keys suit your playing style, and don’t confuse the MPK Mini Plus specifications with those of the MPK Mini IV.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact option, while the KeyStep 37 mk2 is designed for a longer slim-key keyboard and connection to compatible hardware.

  • According to Arturia, the MiniLab 3 measures 355 × 220 × 50 mm and uses touch-sensitive controls for pitch and modulation. The KeyStep 37 mk2 has 37 slim keys with aftertouch, MIDI DIN and CV/Gate.
  • These are different models for different needs. Check which controls and connections you actually need before buying.

M-Audio

The Oxygen Pro Mini is an option if you’re looking for a USB controller with 32 mini keys and DAW controls.

  • M-Audio lists USB power and automatically mapped DAW controls.
  • The integration described also requires the right DAW settings. Check compatibility with your DAW and version.

Joybuy product selection

This option suits anyone looking for built-in sounds and a headphone socket in an electronic keyboard, as well as MIDI.

Black electronic keyboard with 61 keys and USB MIDI

61-key electronic keyboard, black

Could suit you if you’re looking for built-in sounds and a headphone socket as well as MIDI.

61 keys; the product description lists USB MIDI, built-in sounds and a headphone socket. Check that the connections and controls are suitable for the synth and software you want to use.

View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Can I plug headphones straight into a MIDI keyboard?

Don’t assume you can: according to Novation, MIDI doesn’t carry sound. You’ll need a software or hardware synth, and you should connect your headphones to a suitable audio output in that setup.

How do I connect a controller to a hardware synth?

First check which MIDI input your synth has and which cable it needs. The Novation Launchkey 37 MK4 has a 5-pin MIDI output. Also check the power supply, and connect your headphones to a suitable audio output on the synth or other audio equipment.

What should I check if the controller responds but I can’t hear anything?

Check that a software instrument is selected in your audio software and that the correct audio output is set. As Novation explains, the controller sends MIDI control data; your software needs to send the sound to an audio interface or, for example, your laptop’s output.

What are my cancellation rights and warranty when buying online in the Netherlands?

According to the Dutch government, distance purchases often come with a 14-day cancellation period, although there are exceptions. You also have statutory rights if a product is faulty. In the Netherlands, there’s no fixed statutory warranty period, and the retailer is your point of contact.

Can I always make music in a shared flat if I wear headphones?

Wearing headphones doesn’t automatically mean there’ll be no audible sound or disturbance. The Dutch government recommends agreeing on noise levels and notes that noise complaints between neighbours may be covered by local regulations in many municipalities. The rules and permitted times depend on the municipality and your living arrangements.