You are a music producer or musician looking to add a MIDI keyboard to your software. You need not look any further. Here’s a list of some of the best midi-keyboards available.
In our updated reviews, you will find plenty of options to help you choose the best MIDI controller for your Home Studio. Let’s learn more about these keyboard controllers.
What exactly is a MIDI Keyboard
A MIDI controller or keyboard is an electronic device that sends MIDI signals to external hardware. It could be a DAW or a computer.
It is important to remember that not all keyboards or MIDI Controllers are keyboards.
A MIDI keyboard is a great way to get a tactile, hands-on feel for your music.
The best MIDI keyboard controllers
A MIDI Controller allows you to produce your favorite sequences, adding creativity, complexity, and personality to the tracks.
The keyboard controller you choose will depend on your needs. Some people prefer to play chord progressions with ease by using a keyboard that feels heavy. Others need portable devices that can fit in their bags.
Many would need a MIDI Controller with extra features like arpeggiation or sequencing to create creative tracks.
You should take into consideration some factors when buying a keyboard control. You can, for example:
How many keys are there
What size is the keyboard controller? Does it feel sturdy or compact to you?
Does the keyboard controller work on all platforms? (PC and iOS devices).
Is there a controller with buttons, knobs, faders, and ports?
How many performance pads is it equipped with?
How many different keyboard actions can it display at once?
Are the keys’velocity-sensitive’ and do they have an “after touch”?
Is there a USB option?
In our list, we have compiled the top MIDI keyboards that offer a variety of features and unique selling propositions to fit the environment you are working in.
Akai Mpk MiniPortable and efficient
Overview
The Akai MPK Mini is a compact, easy-to-use MIDI controller for on-the-go music production. It features a 25-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, eight pads, and four assignable knobs.
Drum pads are a great feature that cannot be ignored. It is a perfect finger drumming device with great sensitivity.
The physical knobs are another great feature. They come in handy more often than not. The endless encoders on the unit are very convenient for controlling the virtual knobs of the DAW. This makes it an efficient controller that complements your workflow.
The midi keyboard’s compact size makes it ideal for carrying around and preparing for any situation.
Highlights
25 synth-action mini keys
4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch control and modulation
8 MPC-style velocity-sensitive pads with Full Level & Note Repeat.
8 Q-Link knobs that can be assigned for mixing, tweaking plugins, and more
Arpeggiator built-in with resolution, range, and modes adjustable
Buttons for Octave Up/Down
The ultra-compact design allows you to create anywhere.
USB-powered; no power adapter required
Full-size sustain pedal input jack
Includes a comprehensive production software package: MPC Beats by AIR Music Tech, Xpand! 2 (downloads), and Hybrid 3 (downloads).
Price: At just $119, you can go right.
Our Take: For the features that this keyboard provides, it’s a good option. This is an excellent option for a production on the move. It has the characteristics of more significant scaled midi controllers but is small enough to fit in your bag. You can’t lose!
This keyboard is a 10/10. The only way to improve it would be by adding transport buttons onboard, such as play, stop, and recording.
The Akai Mpk Mini, however, is one of the best midi keyboards to look out for.
Alesis V25
Best bang for the buck.
Overview
The Alesis V25 keyboard controller gives you direct control over your music software. It has 25 velocity-sensitive keys with synth action, eight trigger pads, and four assignable knobs.
Alesis is a well-known brand for keyboard controllers and other musical instruments. This keyboard controller is jam-packed with features for beginners and professionals.
It is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for creative inspiration on the move. Alesis also comes with USB power, so there’s no need for an external adapter.
Alesis also offers a limited-time offer for Melodics, a desktop application that teaches midi-keyboard and drum pad techniques. This keyboard is an excellent choice for those who want to maximize their investment.
Highlights
25 square-fronted keys, full-sized
Interface with music software via four knobs and four buttons.
The Octave Up/Down buttons allow you to access the entire keyboard range
Pitch wheels and modulation wheels provide expressive, creative control
Visual feedback is seamless via buttons and knobs that are illuminated
USB power and USB MIDI connectivity for Mac or PC
Includes Ableton Live Lite 9, Xpand!2 (Downloads) by AIR Music Tech.
Price: The Alesis V25 is $109.00, making it the best bang-for-your-buck midi controller.
Our Take: This is the perfect keyboard for anyone wanting to start music production but not wanting to break the bank.
It is not a cheap machine but has many features and is a good choice for producers of all levels.
Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3
Best portable MIDI controller.
Overview
Novation Launchkey, as the name implies, is a small MIDI controller that can fit into any bag.
This keyboard controller is potent for its size.
Ableton Live Lite is a flexible music creation, recording, and performance software.
This MIDI Controller features 25 keys, a powerful Arpeggiator, a static chord mode, and 16 pads with super-sensitive touch for creating rhythms and melodies.
Novation Launchkey features pitch bend, mod touch stripes, and sustain input.
Controls for the transport device, mixer, and other devices give you more control.
The bundle includes a variety of sounds, instruments, and effects. This MIDI controller also has excellent integration with MIDI instruments.