When choosing a MIDI keyboard for basslines, start by considering how much desk space you have and how many keys you want to play without switching octaves; having two screens doesn’t mean you need a particular type of keyboard. Then check that the controls work with your DAW and that you have a software instrument and a working audio output. Extra knobs and pads are only useful if they suit the way you work.
If you write short parts beside two screens, you’ll want to know how much room the keyboard takes up. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm; compare the dimensions of the exact model with the space you have available.
If you want to play notes in sequence without frequently switching octaves, weigh up the playing range and key size against the desk space available. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 as having 37 mini keys, while M-Audio lists the Keystation 49 MK3 as having 49 standard-sized keys.
If you also want to control DAW functions while writing or recording, it’s worth comparing the model’s controls with the support offered by your software. Ableton explains how to use two screens for different Live views; Arturia lists deeper integration through scripts for a selection of DAWs.
Start with the space you have and the playing range you need straight away. Then look at DAW controls and your complete MIDI and audio setup.
A good fit if: short bass motifs and keeping your workspace clear matter more than having a wide playing range straight away. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as having 25 slim keys; Native Instruments lists the Komplete Kontrol M32 as having 32 compact keys.
Consider: check that the smaller keys and any octave switching feel comfortable for the parts you play.
A good fit if: you want to reach more notes without switching octaves, but prefer a mini keyboard. Novation lists the Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 as having 37 mini keys, encoders and pads.
Consider: mini keys aren’t standard-sized. The sequencer and external MIDI and CV connections on the Akai MPK Mini Plus are only relevant if you use those features in your workflow.
A good fit if: you’d prefer to switch octaves less often while playing and have enough space. M-Audio lists the Keystation 49 MK3 as having 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys.
Consider: according to Arturia, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 measures 790 × 240 × 70 mm. Check that you have enough space and that the extra DAW controls work with your software.
| What to consider | What should you look for? | Who should prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Desk space | Measure the available width and depth where you play, then compare them with the dimensions of the exact model. | If I have limited space beside my two screens, I want to know whether the keyboard will fit without taking over the rest of my workspace. Around 33% of consumers give desk space top priority. |
| Playing range and key size | Play a representative bass part and compare the number of octave changes you need to make, as well as the key size. | I want to play longer bass parts without constantly switching octaves, so I take key size into account too. Around 25% of consumers prioritise playing range. |
| DAW controls | Check the combination of the exact keyboard model and DAW, as well as any required settings or mapping scripts. | If I want to control clips or parameters from the keyboard while recording, I want to know which functions my DAW actually supports. Around 25% of consumers choose DAW controls as their main reason. |
| Hearing and recording bass | Check that your DAW can use MIDI input and a bass instrument, that it recognises the controller as an input device, and how you’ll listen to the sound. | I want to do more than just play my bassline: I also want to hear and record it, so I check my MIDI, instrument and audio settings. Around 17% of consumers give a working audio setup top priority. |
Akai explains that the MPK mini mk3 sends MIDI to software and doesn’t produce sound itself. Without a suitable software instrument and a working audio output, you won’t hear a bassline automatically.
Decide in advance which software instrument you want to use and how you’ll listen to the sound.
Key size and dimensions vary by model. Arturia lists the MiniLab 3 as having 25 slim keys and measuring 355 × 220 × 50 mm; the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys and measures 790 × 240 × 70 mm, according to Arturia.
Measure the space beside your screens and play a typical bass part to work out what playing range and key size you need.
Arturia describes mapping scripts for deeper integration with a selection of DAWs on the KeyLab Essential mk3. So having a particular control doesn’t, by itself, mean that the software function you want will be available.
Before buying, check that the exact model, DAW and controls you want to use are compatible.
The MiniLab 3 is a compact option, while the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 offers more keys and DAW controls.
The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is designed for anyone looking for a 37-mini-key keyboard with direct DAW controls.
The Keystation 49 MK3 is aimed at anyone looking for 49 standard-sized keys and USB-MIDI input.
The MPK Mini Plus is a 37-mini-key option for anyone who also wants to use the sequencer or connect external equipment.
The Komplete Kontrol M32 is a compact 32-key alternative to consider if you work with Komplete or NKS instruments.
This Joybuy selection includes a keyboard with MIDI functionality and more keys for a wider playing range.
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For anyone who wants to play more notes straight away: the product title lists 61 keys and a MIDI controller. Check that the MIDI functionality suits your DAW and the way you work.
Not by themselves: choose a keyboard based on space, playing range and the software you use. Ableton explains how you can spread different views across two screens in Live; that feature comes from the software, not the keyboard.
According to Akai, a MIDI controller such as the Akai MPK mini mk3 doesn’t make a sound itself; it sends MIDI to software. Check the MIDI input, that a software instrument is loaded, track monitoring and the audio output. The steps depend on your DAW.
It depends on the model and DAW. Arturia describes specific scripts for deeper control in selected DAWs for the KeyLab Essential mk3; check compatibility with your setup.
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