Who is it for?

Pianists with limited power sockets

You play a virtual piano on a computer and want a keyboard that receives both MIDI data and power through the same USB connection. Check that your computer’s USB port is suitable.

Pianists who care about key action

You want a full range of keys and are comparing hammer action with semi-weighted keys before considering extra DAW controls.

Players short on desk space

You want to control a software piano but don’t have enough room for 88 keys, or you’re choosing a smaller keyboard by design.

What should you look for?

88 keys with hammer action

Choose this option if: full range and hammer action are your priorities.

Consider: check that you have enough room for a full-size keyboard.

88 semi-weighted keys

Choose this option if: you want 88 keys and prefer a semi-weighted feel.

Consider: semi-weighted keys are not the same as hammer action.

A more compact keyboard

Choose this option if: available space matters more than having 88 keys within easy reach.

Consider: octave buttons don’t give you the same physical range at once as 88 keys.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
USB power Check that the manufacturer confirms both USB power and USB MIDI, and that your computer’s port is suitable. I want to use the keyboard without connecting a separate mains adaptor. Around 36% of consumers prioritise powering the keyboard without an extra socket.
Key action and range Compare the number of keys and the specified action for the exact model; also check the pedal input. I want a full range for piano playing and an action that suits my preferences. Around 29% of consumers give key action and range top priority.
Software and audio Check the operating system, software requirements, USB MIDI settings and audio output. I want my computer to send the notes I play to my virtual piano and play the sound. Around 21% of consumers put software compatibility first.
Space and key range Measure the available space and decide whether you want 61 or 88 keys. I’m short on space and can manage with a smaller range of keys within easy reach. Around 14% of consumers make saving space their top priority.

Buying pitfalls to avoid

  • Assuming USB power means you won’t need any other power sockets

    USB power can remove the need for a separate adaptor for the keyboard, but it doesn’t mean your computer, tablet or audio equipment won’t need its own power supply. Roland also notes an exception to bus power with the Lightning connection described; Nektar reports problems with inconsistent USB power in the Impact series.

    Check the whole setup: keyboard, computer or tablet, audio output and any hub. Check the power and connection requirements for each device.

  • Assuming every 88-key keyboard has hammer action

    According to their manufacturers, the Arturia and Novation models mentioned have semi-weighted keys, while the Roland and M-Audio models mentioned have hammer action.

    Check the action of the exact model and, if possible, try the keys before you buy.

  • Expecting the keyboard itself to produce piano sounds

    A MIDI controller sends notes to software or other equipment; it doesn’t produce the sound of a virtual piano on its own.

    Before you buy, check that you have suitable piano software and that your audio output is set up.

Brands to consider

Roland

For the A-88MKII, Roland lists 88 keys with hammer action, pedal inputs and USB-C bus power.

  • Roland confirms bus power with the computers and mobile systems mentioned.
  • For the Lightning connection described, Roland states that bus power doesn’t work and mentions an optional adaptor.

M-Audio

According to M-Audio, the Hammer 88 Pro is a USB-powered model with 88 keys and hammer action. The Keystation 61 MK3 offers 61 keys with USB power, according to the brand.

  • The two models mentioned offer different key ranges; M-Audio specifies hammer action for the Hammer 88 Pro.
  • According to M-Audio, a sustain pedal for the Keystation 61 MK3 is sold separately.

Arturia

According to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 combines 88 semi-weighted keys with USB-C power and controls.

  • Arturia lists software integration and USB-C power for this model.
  • Arturia recommends connecting the model directly to a computer port rather than to a USB hub.

Novation

According to Novation, the Launchkey 88 MK4 has 88 semi-weighted keys, DAW controls and a USB-C port for data and power.

  • Novation states that the USB-C port transfers data and supplies power.
  • The manual lists one sustain input; expression, soft and sostenuto pedals are not supported through this input.

Nektar

According to Nektar, the Impact LX88+ has 88 semi-weighted keys and DAW controls, with power supplied via computer USB or an optional 9V power supply.

  • For the Impact LX88+, Nektar lists both USB power and an optional 9V power supply.
  • Nektar warns of power issues with insufficiently stable USB power across the Impact series; this doesn’t mean that every computer port will cause problems.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a MIDI keyboard produce piano sounds on its own?

No. The MIDI controllers discussed here send MIDI data to a device such as a computer. You’ll need a software instrument set up and an audio output to hear what you play.

Can I always connect a USB-powered keyboard to a tablet without an adaptor?

No, it depends on the combination of keyboard, tablet and adaptor. Roland specifically states that bus power for the A-88MKII isn’t supported with the Lightning connection described for an iPhone or iPad; Roland recommends the optional PSB-1U mains adaptor for this setup. Check the connections for your own devices.

What should I check if my piano software isn’t receiving any notes?

First, check the USB cable and port, then select the correct MIDI input in your software. Arturia describes this software setting for the KeyLab Essential mk3; Nektar mentions issues with inconsistent USB power in the Impact series.

Do I need a pedal or a separate power supply for a MIDI keyboard?

It depends on the model and how you want to play. M-Audio lists USB power and a sustain input for the Keystation 61 MK3; the sustain pedal mentioned is sold separately. Follow the instructions for the exact model when choosing a power supply.

Does a CE mark mean that every keyboard on sale has been independently approved?

No. According to the European Commission, CE marking is only required when applicable harmonised EU rules specify it. The manufacturer is responsible for compliance; the rules that apply to a particular model and whether it complies with them must be assessed separately.