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Playing music is a fun and creative endeavor – and it always helps to have good gear, which is why we reviewed the best MIDI keyboard controllers. So we aggregated millions of actual customer reviews, scoured the internet for the top models, and then rigorously tested the best ones to arrive at our top picks.
You can certainly make electronic music without these MIDI keyboard controllers – but having them definitely makes the entire process much easier. So without further adieu, here are our picks for the best MIDI keyboard controllers on the market today.
Our Top Pick
Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3
This awesome MIDI controller not only looks fantastic – it provides absolutely tremendous performance. Your favorite DAW will be much easier to control, when you use this device, no question.
With thousands of five star ratings, and a very affordable price point, it makes great technology available to the masses. If you can only pick one MIDI controller – we think it should be this one. Our highest recommendation.
Other Great Picks
Alesis V25
This budget pick from Alesis is backed by thousands of great reviews, and we loved testing it out. Super portable, yet still with plenty of functionality, it makes creating music an absolute breeze.
While you can certainly spend more and get more features, for those on a tight budget, this is a perfect selection. Two thumbs (way) up.
Novation Launchkey Mini
This tiny device packs quite a wallop. Absolutely chock full of advanced features, it’s the perfect tool for creating music on the go.
If you’re a musician on a tour bus frequently, or just someone who travels a lot – this is likely the perfect pick for you. Highly recommended, and backed by thousands of five star reviews.
PreSonus ATOM SQ Hybrid MIDI Keyboard
This cool looking hybrid keyboard also offers incredible performance and advanced features. While it costs slightly more than some of the budget picks on our list – the extra money is well worth it.
Backed by hundreds of incredible reviews, this is yet another great pick. If you’re an intermediate or advanced musician, this is a perfect choice.
M-Audio Keystation 49
M-Audio is well known for making incredible portable devices, and this one is no exception. With mod and pitch wheels, it’s a great way to get advanced features for a much lower price.
Backed by thousands of perfect reviews, this keyboard controller is also well loved. While we tested many different models, this was unquestionably one of our favorites.
Nektar Panorama P6
This awesome looking keyboard turned many heads while we were testing it. While it is certainly not a budget pick, if you’re serious about music – this is a great selection for you.
We used it with Logic Pro and other DAWs, and it always performed flawlessly. While you can certainly spend less and get a MIDI keyboard controller that works – if you have the extra cash, we think this model is well worth it.
Vangoa Worlde Panda
This great budget model from Vangoa is another great choice for those looking to save money. We tested it vigorously, and while it didn’t have some of the high-end features of more expensive models, it worked flawlessly with what it did have.
We also loved how easy this model was to set up, and it made creating songs an absolute breeze. Highly recommended, and another great budget pick.
MIDIPlus AKM320
This budget pick works great, and is backed by thousands of five star reviews. Amazon loves this choice as well, and it performed very well throughout our testing.
It took less than 10 minutes for this unit to be working in our DAW, and we definitely appreciated how easy it was to set up. If budget is a concern, this is a perfect choice for most musicians out there. Definitely recommended.
Alesis Q49 MKII
This is another great choice, and while it comes in at a budget price, it offers many advanced features. We loved how easy it was to use, and definitely think most musicians will love it.
Backed by hundreds of five star reviews, it is another example of a great product. We definitely recommend this one, for any musician who wants great gear on the go.
Akai Professional MPK Mini Play
This awesome mini model is simply one of the best MIDI keyboard controllers on the market today. No matter if you want style or substance, this unit offers both.
It definitely caught people’s eye when we were testing it, and the results sounded absolutely tremendous. We couldn’t not get this model a higher recommendation, and we are absolutely sure you will love it just as much as we do.
What Is A MIDI Keyboard Controller?
As the realm of music creation has shifted almost entirely to the digital world, DAW (digital audio workstations) have accumulated a lot of power. However, unless you want to draw notes on the grid, you will definitely need a MIDI keyboard controller.
MIDI keyboards allow you to play and manipulate notes – essentially acting as a musical instrument, and allowing you to play things more naturally, than simply drawing notes onto a grid.
Can A MIDI Controller Be Used As A Keyboard?
The answer is – sometimes. Some MIDI keyboard controllers will have built in sounds, making them very easy to use as a keyboard.
However, other models will only allow you to control a DAW with the keyboard – meaning your DAW will have to be open, with a sound selected, in order to use the controller as a keyboard.
What Is The Difference Between A MIDI Controller And A Keyboard?
A keyboard traditionally only worked by allowing you to play sounds that were within the internal circuitry of the machine. These days, a MIDI controller will allow you to manipulate notes and MIDI information in a DAW – but will not necessarily have built in sounds.
However, there are some hybrid models, that have both DAW control and built-in sounds. These controllers will act as keyboards if you want them to, which gives you a great range of functionality.
Do I Need A MIDI Controller If I Have A Keyboard?
Yes, you likely need a MIDI controller if you have a keyboard. Unless your keyboard has MIDI control ability, you won’t be able to manipulate or play notes inside your DAW with it.
However, these days, there are some hybrid models that solve this problem, and allow you to use a device as both a keyboard and a MIDI controller. This is usually the best solution for those looking to only have one device, and not a room full of different keyboards.
What DAW Is Best?
This is not an objectively answerable question. Everyone will have their own unique preferences and needs, and some may just prefer DAWs that they have been using for a long period of time.
Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, and FL Studio are certainly three of the most popular options, so they would be a good place to start, if you are a beginner. Ableton Live is another popular choice.
We personally use Logic Pro X, and like all the functionality and compatibility it offers. However, that is far from the only option out there.
Ableton Live is definitely a popular choice for those who do live performances – many DJs and performers swear by it. However, if you are only making music from home, it’s hard to beat Pro Tools.
Pro Tools is used worldwide by the most professional musicians and hitmakers, and contains all of the features you’d ever want or need. Couple it with autotune, and you are well on your way to having a completely professional setup.
If you’re in a band, Pro Tools (and many other DAWs) will have all of the tools needed to make great recordings. A MIDI keyboard controller will also allow you to make great solo recordings, as well as quickly get down ideas for demos.
Other Buying Factors For The Best MIDI Keyboard Controller
When it comes to choosing a MIDI keyboard controller, there are many important factors to look at. You may want semi-weighted keys, raised faders, assignable channels, easy connectivity, a comfortable keybed, a modulation wheel, lots of presets, a sequencer, or even aftertouch.
Music production can be complicated, but a great MIDI keyboard controller definitely makes it easier. You may want velocity-sensitive keys, transport controls, or an arpeggiator – all of these are possible, depending on which keyboard you go with.
While classic analog keyboards could only make sounds that their internal circuitry was capable of, MIDI keyboard controllers can also control your digital and DAW sounds. This means that any plugin you have on your computer, can be controller with your attached keyboard.
Everyone has different needs when it comes to MIDI controllers, some people may want drum pads, while others may want full-size keys. iOS and Macs usually work with just about any MIDI keyboard controller, as do Windows and Android.
A full blown synthesizer is different than a MIDI keyboard controller, as a synth will usually have many more onboard sounds. Drum machines, like the classic MPC offer different functionality from a MIDI keyboard controller, though many controllers now offer drum pads as well.
There are tons of DAWs out there – Ableton Live Lite, Cubase, FL Studio, Logic Pro, and more. DAW control (and virtual instruments) can be controlled by models like the Komplete Kontrol, the Arturia KeyLab, the Nektar Impact, the M-Audio Oxygen, the Akai MPK Mini, the Maschine – and so many more.
While we tested a number of different models – some with pitch bend, other with mod wheels, some with mini keys, others with pressure-sensitive keys – we learned basically one thing. If you want high-quality results and DAW integration – no matter if you have a home studio or just an iPad – software instruments need to be controlled by a MIDI keyboard.
A lot of choosing the best MIDI keyboard controller comes down to choosing what is best for you, and your specific workflow. Some people may want sensitive pads, while others may value a sustain pedal.
There are many manufacturers – Korg, Roland, Native Instruments, Apple – and tons of options, like assignable knobs, backlit keys, and different compatibility. But whether you want beginners equipment, or professional grade – the basic functionality is the same.
For the record, our preferred DAW is Logic Pro X, but your mileage may vary. Major DAWs will offer live performance and pedal input – but it’s likely that only one MIDI keyboard controller is absolutely right for you.
Most models will offer plug-and-play functionality, and sellers like Sweetwater will have a dizzying amount of options available – some with different encoders, some with varying degrees of build quality, others with synth-action keys, and so on. Really you just need USB MIDI out, compatibility with VSTs, and you’ll be good to go.
However, it should be noted that if you’re a professional musician, you’ll likely need more features, and perhaps more modular options. A key MIDI controller that allows you to control things in real-time is nice, but you may need sliders, RGB features, and so on.
The Best MIDI Keyboard Controller
There you have it – our picks for the best MIDI keyboard controllers on the market today. While you can certainly make music without a MIDI keyboard controller – having one sure does make life a lot easier.
When it came time to review the best MIDI keyboard controllers, we looked at price, customer reviews, and much more. We found that there were many great options out there, and that it really came down to personal preference, as well as budget.
Any of the ten choices on our list will make for a great choice when it comes to picking a MIDI keyboard controller – ultimately it just comes down to what you are specifically looking for. And if you liked this review, be sure to check out some of our other best product reviews.