Who is this useful for?

Beatmaker who wants to play pads

You want to play drum parts in live and are looking for pads that work with your drum software. Novation describes the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 as a controller with 16 velocity-sensitive pads.

Producer working with two DAW screens

You want to keep your pattern editing visible while using the controller. According to Ableton, Ableton Live lets you spread different views, such as MIDI editing, across two monitors using a second window.

Producer who also plays keys

As well as making beats, you create basslines, chords or melodies. It’s important to weigh up the keyboard range you need against the space it will take up on your desk.

What should you look for when choosing?

First decide whether you mainly play beats in live or enter them step by step. Then consider the controls you need in your DAW and the space available. In Ableton Live, a second window can split the views across your screens, but check which screen layouts and controller features are available in other DAWs.

What to consider What to look for Who is this important for?
Entering drum patterns Check the number of pads, their velocity sensitivity and how they work with your DAW’s drum features. I want to play beats with my fingers and follow the pattern on screen; around 33% of consumers give drum input top priority.
DAW control Check whether the exact model supports your DAW’s features and what settings are required. I want to control the main DAW features from my controller while working across two monitors; around 27% of consumers prioritise DAW control.
Desk space Measure the available width and depth, and allow room for cables and other equipment. I want to reach both the pads and keys without making my workspace feel cramped; around 20% of consumers prioritise a desk-friendly setup.
Keyboard range Compare the number and size of the keys with the parts you want to play. I play melodies, basslines or chords as well as drums, and want to know how many keys I need at my fingertips; around 20% of consumers prioritise keyboard range.

Common buying pitfalls

  • Confusing a second monitor with an extra keyboard feature

    Window layouts are managed in your DAW. A display on a controller serves a different purpose and doesn’t replace those screen settings.

    First decide which windows you want to use side by side, then check how your DAW supports this.

  • Choosing a pad controller when you need piano keys

    The Launchpad Pro [MK3] is a pad controller without piano keys, while the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 combines pads and keys. These models aren’t interchangeable for every playing style.

    Check the full model name and choose based on the type of input you need. If you need piano keys, you may need a separate keyboard.

  • Assuming every MIDI controller makes its own sounds

    A MIDI controller can send messages to software without playing drum sounds itself. Akai describes the MPK Mini MK3 in this way, so don’t assume every model works the same way.

    Check how the exact model produces sound and what software or audio equipment it needs. For the MPK Mini MK3, Akai says that software on a computer turns MIDI messages into sound.

Relevant brands to consider

Novation

Novation offers both keyboards with pads and pad controllers without piano keys.

  • According to Novation, the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 combines 25 mini keys with 16 velocity-sensitive pads.
  • The Launchpad Pro [MK3] manual lists 64 pads and a sequencer with 32-step patterns.
  • The Launchpad Pro [MK3] has no piano keys; also check that its controls work with your DAW.

Akai Professional

Akai Professional offers compact models with different combinations of keys, pads and sequencer features.

  • According to Akai, the MPK Mini Plus has 37 mini keys and an internal two-track sequencer.
  • Akai lists mod and pitch wheels and a colour display among the features of the MPK Mini IV.
  • The MPK Mini IV and MPK Mini Plus are different models; check the features of the exact version.

Arturia

Arturia offers compact controllers as well as models with larger keyboards, with dimensions and controls varying by model.

  • Arturia describes the MiniLab 3 as having 25 slim keys and two banks of eight pads.
  • According to the product information, the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 has 49 keys and DAW control.
  • Arturia lists the KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 as 790 mm wide; measure your available space before choosing this model.

Joybuy product picks

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a special MIDI keyboard to use two computer screens?

No, not just because you have two screens. In Ableton Live, you can use Second Window to show a window for detailed MIDI editing separately, among other things. Also check that your chosen controller can operate the features you want in your DAW.

How do I get started with drum pads in Ableton Live?

Set up the controller and choose a suitable drum instrument in Live. Novation describes Drum Mode for certain Launchkey models; how it works depends on the model, the selected track and the MIDI settings. So follow the instructions for your exact version.

Does a MIDI keyboard make drum sounds by itself?

Don’t assume that it does. Akai says the MPK Mini MK3 sends MIDI messages to software on a computer to produce sound. For other models, check separately whether they produce sounds themselves and what software is required.

What if the keyboard breaks too soon during normal use?

For a consumer purchase in the Netherlands, the product must be fit for purpose. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period that applies to every product; if you have a valid claim under your statutory rights, the seller is responsible for resolving it.

Is the CE marking on a MIDI controller an independent quality mark?

No. According to the European Union, CE is not a centrally issued certificate; it indicates that the manufacturer declares the product meets the applicable EU requirements. The requirements depend on the product. Check the information for the exact version, especially if importing from outside the EU.