Who is this for?

Expressive lead player

You want to adjust the pitch or sound as you play a melody. So pay attention to the position and type of pitch-bend, modulation and parameter controls.

Melody player with limited space

You want enough keys to play melodies, while also taking the available desk width into account. The number of keys and their size are separate considerations.

Player with their own sound source

You want to control a software instrument or an existing hardware synth. Check that the MIDI connections are compatible and how you’ll listen to the sound.

What should you look for when buying?

First decide where the sound will come from and how much desk space you have. Then compare the range of keys available at your fingertips and the expressive controls you want to use while playing.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Expressiveness while playing Check the pitch-bend and modulation controls on the exact model, and whether your software or synth uses those signals. If I want to shape the pitch or sound during a lead phrase, I want to be able to reach the controls without searching for them. Around 31% of consumers prioritise expressive controls.
Range of keys at your fingertips Compare both the number and size of the keys, and measure the available desk width. For longer melodies, I want more notes under my fingers at once, without having to keep switching octaves. Around 25% of consumers prioritise key range.
Available space Measure the space on your desk and allow room for cables and controls. If my workspace is small, the keyboard needs to fit alongside my other equipment. Around 19% of consumers give available space the greatest priority.
Connection to an external synth Check the type of MIDI connection and the power requirements of both devices; don’t assume they’re compatible based on USB-MIDI alone. Anyone wanting to control an existing hardware synth needs to match the connections on both devices. Around 13% of consumers prioritise this hardware connection.
Sound and audio setup Decide whether you want to use a software instrument, an external sound source or built-in sounds, and check that the audio output you need is available. If I want to hear sound without extra equipment, the model I choose needs to provide it. Around 12% of consumers prioritise a working sound and audio setup.

Common buying pitfalls

  • Mistaking a MIDI controller for a standalone synthesiser

    A controller such as the Novation Launchkey or Akai MPK Mini MK3 doesn’t produce sound itself. Without a software instrument or a compatible external sound source, you won’t hear a synth lead.

    Before buying, decide where the sound will come from and how you want to listen to it. Check the full model name: the Akai MPK Mini Play MK3 is a different version from the MPK Mini MK3.

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    A 37-key keyboard may have mini or full-sized keys; dimensions and controls also vary by model.

    Compare the key size and stated width of the exact model. Also check that the pitch-bend and modulation controls are easy to reach while playing.

  • Confusing USB-MIDI with a 5-pin MIDI output

    Having USB-MIDI doesn’t automatically mean you can connect directly to a hardware synth with a 5-pin input.

    Compare the connections on both devices and check their power requirements before making your choice.

Brands to consider

Novation

The Launchkey 37 MK4 combines full-sized keys, dedicated expressive wheels and controls for software or external MIDI hardware.

  • Novation specifies 37 full-sized synth-action keys, eight encoders and a 5-pin MIDI output for the Launchkey 37 MK4.
  • The Launchkey has no built-in sounds. Also check which features your music software supports.

Arturia

The MiniLab 3 is a compact controller with software controls and a MIDI output; the KeyStep Pro is a separate model for more advanced hardware and sequencer setups.

  • Arturia specifies 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys, touch controls for pitch and modulation, and a 5-pin output for the MiniLab 3.
  • The four sequencer tracks and extra connections belong to the KeyStep Pro, not the MiniLab 3.

Akai Professional

The MPK Mini MK3 is a compact controller for software; the MPK Mini Play MK3 is a separate version with built-in sounds.

  • According to Akai, the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI to computer software; the MPK Mini Play MK3 has built-in sounds, a speaker and a headphone output.
  • Check the full model name to avoid confusing the two versions.

Korg

The microKEY2-37 is an option with 37 mini keys and separate pitch and modulation wheels.

  • Korg Netherlands lists a width of 565 mm and a USB Type B connection for the microKEY2-37.
  • The model specifications don’t list a 5-pin MIDI output, so don’t assume it will connect directly to an input of that type.

Nektar

The Impact LX Mini combines a compact keyboard with a joystick and controls for software production.

  • Nektar specifies 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, eight buttons and a joystick whose horizontal movement controls pitch bend.
  • The limited range of keys at your fingertips is a trade-off for longer lead phrases.

Joybuy products for this setup

This selection focuses on a keyboard with built-in sounds and MIDI controller functionality, for anyone wanting to play melodies across a wide range of keys.

61-key electronic keyboard, black

61-key electronic keyboard, black

Suitable if you’re looking for a keyboard with a wide range of keys at your fingertips and MIDI controller functionality.

61 keys; recording function; speakers, metronome and music stand according to the product name.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard produce sound by itself?

A standard MIDI controller, such as the Novation Launchkey or Akai MPK Mini MK3, doesn’t produce sound itself. Use a software instrument or a compatible external sound source, and set up an audio output too. The separate Akai MPK Mini Play MK3 does have built-in sounds and a headphone output, according to Akai.

How do I get started with a software synth lead?

Select the controller as the MIDI input in your music software, load a software instrument with a lead sound and choose an audio output. Then check that pitch bend, modulation and any buttons are assigned to the functions you want.

Can a USB-MIDI keyboard directly control a synth with only a 5-pin MIDI input?

Don’t assume it can: check whether the exact controller has a compatible 5-pin output and whether it matches your synth’s input and power requirements. Arturia specifies this type of output for the MiniLab 3; Novation does so for the Launchkey 37 MK4.

What guarantee applies when buying as a consumer in the Netherlands?

According to ACM ConsuWijzer, the statutory guarantee is separate from any manufacturer’s guarantee. If a product doesn’t meet the expectations you could reasonably have of it when used normally, the seller is responsible for providing an appropriate solution. There is no single fixed guarantee period for every MIDI keyboard.

Can I return a MIDI keyboard bought online?

According to ACM ConsuWijzer, online consumer purchases generally come with a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery. There are exceptions, so check the terms for your specific purchase, especially if it includes separate digital products.