Who is a MIDI controller for virtual piano suitable for?

Player using a shared desk

Wants to put the keyboard away after use, so pays attention to its dimensions and key size.

Two-handed piano player

Prioritises room to play with both hands and key response over having the smallest possible instrument.

Beginner using a virtual piano

Wants to know whether the controller works with their computer and software, and whether a compatible pedal can be connected.

What should you look for in a MIDI keyboard for a shared desk?

Compact controller with mini keys

Choose this option: if you want to put the instrument away after use and mainly play short phrases, chords or sketches.

Bear in mind: smaller keys give you less room to play; an octave button does not add keys you can play at the same time.

Controller with more or larger keys

Choose this option: if you regularly play parts with both hands and have room for the keyboard on your desk.

Bear in mind: a larger keyboard takes up more space; try the key response if it’s a deciding factor for you.

What to consider What should you look for? Who is this important for?
Space and storage Measure the available width and depth, leaving room for cables and your mouse. Compare the dimensions of the exact model. If I also need my desk for other work, I want to know whether the controller will fit and be easy to put away. Around 31% of consumers prioritise space and storage above all else.
Keys and room to play Compare the number of keys, mini keys with full-size keys, and the stated velocity sensitivity. Try the key response if playing feel is particularly important to you. If you want to play chords and a melody at the same time, having more room to play may matter more than a smaller size. Around 31% of consumers prioritise room to play and key response.
Computer and piano software Check the connection, the system requirements for the software you plan to use, and what’s included with the exact version. If I want to play straight away using my own computer, I want to know in advance whether the controller and software will work together. Around 23% of consumers prioritise compatibility above all else.
Sustain pedal Check whether the controller has a pedal input, which pedals are compatible and whether a pedal is included. If you play with sustain, you’ll want to be able to use a pedal that’s compatible with your controller. Around 15% of consumers prioritise pedal control.

A standard MIDI controller converts your playing into MIDI data, but doesn’t produce piano sounds itself. Coolblue explains that software on a computer turns this data into sound. So make sure you also check your sound source and audio output. To check whether a model will fit on your desk, measure its actual dimensions: Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as 355 × 220 × 50 mm; Novation gives the Launchkey 49 MK4 a width of 730 mm and a depth of 264 mm.

Common pitfalls when choosing

  • Confusing a wider range with more keys

    An octave control shifts the range, but doesn’t change how many keys you can play at the same time.

    Decide which notes you want to play simultaneously, then compare that with the actual number of keys and the desk space available.

  • Assuming a MIDI controller produces piano sounds on its own

    The controller sends playing data; you’ll need a suitable sound source and software to turn it into audible sound.

    Before buying, check the requirements for your software, computer and chosen audio output.

  • Assuming any sustain pedal will work

    A pedal input doesn’t automatically mean every pedal is compatible. Arturia notes a compatibility issue between the MiniLab 3 and the KORG DS1H.

    Before using them together, check the manufacturer’s pedal information for the exact controller model and pedal.

Brands to consider

Arturia

Arturia positions the MiniLab 3 as a compact controller with 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys, a pedal input and included software.

  • The listed dimensions of 355 × 220 × 50 mm make it easier to work out how much desk space you’ll need.
  • With 25 keys, the physical playing range is limited; also check which pedal is compatible with this model.

Novation

Novation offers the Launchkey Mini 37 with mini keys, as well as the Launchkey 49 MK4 with 49 semi-weighted keys.

  • Novation lists the Mini 37 as 478 mm wide; the 49 MK4 has 49 velocity-sensitive keys.
  • According to Novation, the Launchkey 49 MK4 is 730 mm wide. Not every virtual piano player needs the extra DAW controls.

M-Audio

M-Audio describes the Keystation 49 MK3 as a USB MIDI controller with 49 velocity-sensitive, full-size keys and a sustain input.

  • M-Audio says virtual piano software is included.
  • The sustain pedal mentioned is sold separately; allow for the space taken up by full-size keys.

Akai Professional

Akai Professional describes the MPK Mini IV and MPK mini Plus as compact controllers with 25 and 37 keys respectively.

  • Akai lists included instrument software for the Mini IV and 37 mini keys for the mini Plus.
  • For piano playing, pads and sequencer functions can’t replace extra physical keys; check the software requirements for the exact version.

Nektar

Nektar describes the SE49 and SE61 as USB MIDI controllers with 49 and 61 velocity-sensitive, full-size keys respectively.

  • Nektar lists adjustable velocity curves and a connection for a pedal or footswitch.
  • A higher number of keys means you’ll need more space to use and store the controller.

Joybuy products

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Will a MIDI controller produce piano sounds straight away without a computer?

No, a standard MIDI controller isn’t a piano sound source in itself. Software on a computer turns the playing data into sound, so check which software and audio output you’ll use.

What can I do if a sustain pedal responds in reverse?

First, check whether the manufacturer says the pedal is compatible with your model. Arturia describes a pedal polarity setting for the MiniLab 3 and recommends connecting the pedal before switching the controller on; this advice doesn’t automatically apply to other brands.

Do I need anything else besides the controller?

You’ll need a suitable sound source and audio output to hear the MIDI data. Whether you also need software or a sustain pedal depends on what you already own and what’s included with the exact model. M-Audio lists the sustain pedal for the Keystation 49 MK3 as sold separately.

What rights do I have when buying online from a company in the Netherlands?

According to the Government of the Netherlands, for distance purchases you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period; check whether your agreement is covered. You’re also entitled to receive a product that’s in good working order. The Government of the Netherlands says there’s no fixed statutory warranty period in the Netherlands; contact the seller if there’s a problem.