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Discover the best midi keyboards for every music enthusiast, from budding producers to seasoned composers. Our comprehensive guide, packed with top controllers for every budget, will help you navigate the world of midi keyboards and elevate your creative potential.
The best midi keyboards cater to various budgets and needs, offering a range of features, key counts, and connectivity options. From entry-level controllers to professional-grade instruments, these devices allow musicians and producers to create and control digital music seamlessly.
Ready to uncover the hidden gems of the best midi keyboards and controllers? Let our expertly curated list of top controllers for every budget guide you on a journey to unleash your musical prowess and transform your creative endeavors.
Table Of Contents
1. What Is The Best Midi Keyboard?
2. What Is A Midi Keyboard?
3. Factors To Consider When Buying A Midi Keyboard
4. Finding Your Perfect MIDI Keyboard Match
5. FAQ
1. What Is The Best Midi Keyboard?
Here Are Our Top Picks For The Best Midi Keyboards:
- Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 – Best For Seamless Software Integration
- Alesis V61 – Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Arturia KeyStep 37 – Best For Compact Versatility
- Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 – Best For Portability And Affordability
- M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk IV – Best For Music Producers And Composers
- Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 – Best For Live Performers And Bedroom Producers
- Nektar Impact LX61+ – Best For Extensive DAW Control
- Korg MicroKEY Air 61 – Best For Wireless Freedom
- Behringer MOTOR 61 – Best For Motorized Fader Control
- ROLI Seaboard Block – Best For Expressive Control
- Roland A-88MKII – Best Midi Keyboard For Piano Players
Overview:
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 is a 49-key midi controller designed for seamless integration with Native Instruments software. It features a high-quality keybed, an informative OLED display, touch-sensitive control knobs, and DAW control buttons. Its pre-mapped control options for NI software make it a dream for users of the Komplete ecosystem.
Pros:
- Excellent software integration
- Quality keybed and control options
- Informative OLED display
Cons:
- Pricier than some competitors
- Limited additional controls (faders, pads)
Unique Selling Point:
The Komplete Kontrol A49’s unparalleled integration with Native Instruments software sets it apart, offering a streamlined workflow for users of the Komplete suite.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 49 |
| Pads | None |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI Out |
| Price | ~ $219 |
Bottom Line:
The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 is perfect for serious music producers and composers invested in the Native Instruments ecosystem, seeking a seamless workflow.
Overview:
The Alesis V61 is a budget-friendly 61-key midi controller boasting semi-weighted keys, four assignable knobs, and four assignable buttons. Its simplicity and affordability make it an excellent option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- 61 semi-weighted keys
- Simple design and layout
Cons:
- Limited additional controls (pads, faders)
- Basic software integration
Unique Selling Point:
The Alesis V61 offers an unbeatable balance of affordability and functionality, making it a top choice for those on a budget.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Alesis V61 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 61 |
| Pads | None |
| Knobs | 4 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI |
| Price | ~ $179 |
Bottom Line:
The Alesis V61 is perfect for beginners and budget-conscious musicians seeking a functional, affordable 61-key midi controller.
Overview:
The Arturia KeyStep 37 is a compact midi controller boasting 37 velocity-sensitive keys, an arpeggiator, and a polyphonic sequencer. Its slim design and extensive connectivity options, including USB, MIDI, and CV/Gate outputs, make it suitable for various setups.
Pros:
- Compact and versatile design
- Arpeggiator and a polyphonic sequencer
- Extensive connectivity options
Cons:
- Limited additional controls (pads, faders)
- Smaller key count may not suit all users
Unique Selling Point:
The Arturia KeyStep 37’s compact form factor, versatile features, and wide-ranging connectivity options make it stand out in its class.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Arturia KeyStep 37 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 37 |
| Pads | None |
| Knobs | 5 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI, CV/Gate |
| Price | ~ $199 |
Bottom Line:
The Arturia KeyStep 37 is an excellent choice for musicians and producers looking for a compact and versatile midi controller with extensive connectivity options.
Overview:
The Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 is a compact and budget-friendly midi controller, perfect for musicians on the go or those with limited space. This 25-key midi keyboard offers velocity-sensitive keys, eight backlit pads, and eight assignable knobs. The built-in arpeggiator and dedicated sustain button enhance your playing experience.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight design
- Affordable price
- Versatile control options
Cons:
- Smaller key count may not suit all users
- No faders or pitch/modulation wheels
Unique Selling Point:
The MPK Mini Mk3 stands out with its combination of portability, affordability, and versatile controls, making it perfect for those just starting or musicians on the move.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 25 |
| Pads | 8 |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Price | ~ $119 |
Bottom Line:
The Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 is an excellent choice for beginners or musicians needing a portable and affordable midi controller without sacrificing functionality. It is also one of the best cheap midi keyboards.
Overview:
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk IV is a 49-key midi controller with eight backlit pads, nine faders, and eight assignable knobs. Its versatility and compatibility with various DAWs make it a solid choice for music producers and composers.
Pros:
- 49 velocity-sensitive keys
- Versatile control options
- Wide DAW compatibility
Cons:
- No motorized faders
- Limited software integration
Unique Selling Point:
The Oxygen 49 Mk IV stands out for its versatile control options and compatibility with a wide range of DAWs, making it a versatile tool in any studio setup.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk IV |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 49 |
| Pads | 8 |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI |
| Price | ~ $179 |
Bottom Line:
The M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk IV is an excellent choice for music producers and composers looking for a versatile midi controller compatible with various DAWs.
Overview:
The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is a portable 25-key midi controller with 16 RGB backlit pads, eight rotary knobs, and transport controls. Its seamless integration with Ableton Live and other DAWs makes it an excellent choice for live performers and bedroom producers.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- 16 RGB backlit pads
- Seamless Ableton Live integration
Cons:
- The limited key count may not suit all users
- May not be as versatile for users of non-Ableton DAWs
Unique Selling Point:
The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 shines with its deep integration with Ableton Live, making it a powerful tool for live performance and production.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 25 |
| Pads | 16 |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Price | ~ $109 |
Bottom Line:
The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is ideal for live performers and bedroom producers, particularly those using Ableton Live, seeking a portable and powerful midi controller.
Overview:
The Nektar Impact LX61+ is a 61-key midi controller offering extensive DAW control, nine faders, eight rotary knobs, and eight backlit pads. Its deep integration with popular DAWs, including Logic, Cubase, and FL Studio, makes it a powerful tool for music producers and composers.
Pros:
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys
- Extensive DAW control
- Versatile control options
Cons:
- No motorized faders
- Limited software integration for lesser-known DAWs
Unique Selling Point:
The Nektar Impact LX61+ stands out for its extensive DAW control and integration capabilities, making it a top choice for those seeking seamless workflow.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Nektar Impact LX61+ |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 61 |
| Pads | 8 |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI |
| Price | ~ $179 |
Bottom Line:
The Nektar Impact LX61+ is ideal for music producers and composers who desire extensive DAW control and integration for a seamless workflow.
Overview:
The Korg microKEY Air 61 is a 61-key midi controller offering wireless Bluetooth connectivity for added freedom and convenience. Its compact design, pitch, modulation wheels, and compatibility with various devices make it a versatile option for musicians on the move.
Pros:
- Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- Compact design
- Wide device compatibility
Cons:
- Smaller key sizes may not suit all users
- Limited additional controls (pads, faders)
Unique Selling Point:
The Korg microKEY Air 61 sets itself apart with its wireless Bluetooth connectivity, offering added freedom and convenience for mobile musicians.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Korg microKEY Air 61 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 61 |
| Pads | None |
| Knobs | None |
| Connectivity | USB, Bluetooth |
| Price | ~ $189 |
Bottom Line:
The Korg microKEY Air 61 is an excellent choice for musicians seeking a portable and wireless midi controller compatible with a wide range of devices.
Overview:
The Behringer MOTOR 61 is a 61-key midi controller featuring nine motorized faders, eight backlit pads, and eight rotary encoders. Its unique motorized fader control and extensive additional controls make it an attractive option for music producers and composers seeking advanced control options.
Pros:
- Nine motorized faders
- Extensive control options
- 61 semi-weighted keys
Cons:
- Bulky design
- Limited software integration
Unique Selling Point:
The Behringer MOTOR 61 stands out for its motorized fader control, offering precise mixing capabilities and advanced control options for demanding users.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Behringer MOTOR 61 |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 61 |
| Pads | 8 |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI |
| Price | ~ $329 |
Bottom Line:
The Behringer MOTOR 61 is perfect for music producers and composers seeking advanced control options, particularly motorized fader control, for precise mixing and creative flexibility.
Overview:
The ROLI Seaboard Block is a unique midi controller featuring a 24-key wave-playing surface with unparalleled expressive control. Its innovative 5D touch technology allows musicians to manipulate sound through pressure, glide, slide, and lift gestures, opening up new creative possibilities.
Pros:
- Innovative 5D touch technology
- Unparalleled expressive control
- Compact and modular design
Cons:
- The learning curve for traditional keyboardists
- Limited traditional controls (knobs, faders)
Unique Selling Point:
The ROLI Seaboard Block’s innovative keywave playing surface and 5D touch technology provide an unmatched level of expressive control, allowing musicians to explore new creative avenues.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | ROLI Seaboard Block |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 24 (keywaves) |
| Pads | None |
| Knobs | None |
| Connectivity | USB, Bluetooth |
| Price | ~ $299 |
Bottom Line:
The ROLI Seaboard Block is ideal for musicians and composers seeking a genuinely expressive and innovative midi controller that pushes the boundaries of traditional keyboard performance.
Overview:
The Roland A-88MKII is an 88-key midi controller featuring Roland’s premium PHA-4 keybed with hammer action and ivory feel. Its advanced features, including customizable zones and assignable controls, make it suitable for professional pianists and composers.
Pros:
- Premium 88-key PHA-4 keybed
- Hammer action and ivory feel
- Advanced customization options
Cons:
- Higher price point
- No built-in drum pads
Unique Selling Point:
The Roland A-88MKII’s premium keybed and advanced features make it a top choice for professional pianists and composers seeking the best possible playing experience.
Features & Pricing:
| Feature | Roland A-88MKII |
|---|---|
| Key Count | 88 |
| Pads | None |
| Knobs | 8 |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI, CV/Gate |
| Price | ~ $999 |
Bottom Line:
The Roland A-88MKII is perfect for professional pianists and composers who demand the highest quality keybed and advanced customization options.
2. What Is A Midi Keyboard?
A MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) keyboard is a versatile piece of hardware that allows musicians and producers to interact with their digital audio workstation (DAW) software and virtual instruments.
Essentially, it is an electronic keyboard that sends MIDI data, such as note and velocity information, to a computer or other MIDI-compatible devices. Unlike traditional keyboards, MIDI keyboards do not produce sound on their own. Instead, they act as controllers, triggering sounds and parameters within a DAW or virtual instruments.
MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, typically ranging from 25 to 88 keys, and often include additional controls such as pads, knobs, faders, and buttons. These added controls provide users with more options for manipulating and adjusting sounds, effects, and other parameters within their DAW or virtual instruments.
Midi Keyboards In Music Production
MIDI keyboards are used in music production to play and record melodies, chords, and basslines using software-based instruments.
They enable musicians and producers to access a wide range of sounds and textures without requiring multiple physical instruments. Using a MIDI keyboard, artists can easily experiment with different instrument sounds, switch between patches, and even layer various instruments to create unique and complex arrangements.
Midi Keyboards In Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Control
In addition to playing virtual instruments, MIDI keyboards play a crucial role in DAW control. Many MIDI keyboards offer seamless integration with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, and FL Studio.
This integration lets users control various aspects of their DAW directly from the MIDI keyboard, such as starting and stopping playback, recording, navigating through the project, and adjusting volume levels. This level of control streamlines the music production process and enables producers to work more efficiently.
In summary, a MIDI keyboard is a powerful tool in music production and DAW control, offering musicians and producers access to a vast array of sounds and the ability to manipulate various aspects of their projects.
The versatility and functionality of MIDI keyboards make them an essential piece of equipment for any modern music studio.
3. Factors To Consider When Buying A Midi Keyboard
When looking for the best MIDI keyboards, several factors come into play. To ensure that you make the right decision for your needs, consider the following aspects:
Key Count And Size
MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, ranging from 25 to 88 keys. When choosing the proper key count, consider your playing style, available space, and portability needs. Additionally, some MIDI keyboards offer full-sized keys, while others have mini or semi-weighted keys. Choose the key size that suits your playing preference and comfort.
Action And Feel
MIDI keyboards can have different key actions, such as synth-action, semi-weighted, and fully weighted (hammer action) keys. Each action provides a distinct feel when playing. Choose a key action that mimics the feel of the instrument you’re most comfortable with or one that best suits your playing style.
Additional Controls
Many MIDI keyboards feature extra controls such as pads, knobs, faders, and buttons. These controls can enhance your workflow and provide additional creative possibilities. Consider what other controls you might need for your specific music production or performance requirements.
DAW Integration
Ensure that the MIDI keyboard you choose is compatible with your preferred DAW for a streamlined workflow. MIDI keyboards can have varying levels of integration with different DAWs. Some offer seamless integration with popular DAWs, allowing you to control various aspects of the software directly from the keyboard.
Connectivity
MIDI keyboards typically connect to your computer or other devices via USB. However, some models offer traditional 5-pin MIDI connections, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, or CV/Gate outputs for modular synthesizers. Consider what connectivity options are essential for your specific setup.
Build Quality And Durability
The build quality of a MIDI keyboard can impact its longevity and reliability during performances. The best midi keyboards offer solid construction and high-quality components to ensure it withstands regular use.
Software Bundle
Many MIDI keyboards come with bundled software, including DAWs, virtual instruments, and effect plugins. These bundles can add value to your purchase, especially if you are starting and need a comprehensive set of tools for music production.
Budget
MIDI keyboards are available at various price points, from affordable entry-level options to high-end models with advanced features. Determine your budget and prioritize the essential features to find the right MIDI keyboard within your price range.
Ensure that these factors evaluate your needs better and make an informed decision when purchasing a MIDI keyboard. It should meet your specific music production and performance requirements.
4. Finding Your Perfect MIDI Keyboard Match
To sum up, best MIDI keyboards offer an extensive range of options catering to various needs, budgets, and preferences. There is a MIDI keyboard for everyone, from compact mini controllers for on-the-go musicians to fully-weighted 88-key behemoths for studio professionals.
Our Top Picks For The Best Midi Keyboards Include:
- Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 – Best For Seamless Software Integration
- Alesis V61 – Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Arturia KeyStep 37 – Best For Compact Versatility
- Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 – Best For Portability And Affordability
- M-Audio Oxygen 49 Mk IV – Best For Music Producers And Composers
- Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 – Best For Live Performers And Bedroom Producers
- Nektar Impact LX61+ – Best For Extensive DAW Control
- Korg MicroKEY Air 61 – Best For Wireless Freedom
- Behringer MOTOR 61 – Best For Motorized Fader Control
- ROLI Seaboard Block – Best For Expressive Control
- Roland A-88MKII – Best Midi Keyboard For Piano Players
By considering key factors such as key count, action, additional controls, DAW integration, connectivity, build quality, and budget, you can find the best MIDI keyboards that will elevate your music production and performance experience.
With the top controllers for every budget presented in this article, you’re now well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect MIDI keyboard match for your unique creative journey.
5. FAQ
- What Are The Best Midi Keyboards For Beginners?
The Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3 and Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 are both excellent choices for beginners, offering a good balance of features and affordability. - Can I Use A Midi Keyboard With Any DAW?
Most midi keyboards are compatible with various DAWs, but it’s essential to check the specific compatibility of the model you’re interested in. - Are Weighted Keys Essential On A Midi Keyboard?
Weighted keys can provide a more realistic playing experience but may only be necessary for some. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of music you’ll produce. - How Do I Connect A Midi Keyboard To My Computer?
Midi keyboards typically connect to your computer via USB, MIDI, or Bluetooth. Ensure that your chosen midi keyboard offers the connectivity options you require and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup. - Do Midi Keyboards Produce Sound On Their Own?
Midi keyboards do not produce sound on their own. They send MIDI data to your computer or other devices, which generate the sound using software instruments or external hardware.
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