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Top 8 MIDI Keyboards to Travel With – Get Portability Without Sacrificing Features

Alecia Steen

A MIDI keyboard controller is something that allows all computers and instruments in a music studio to communicate between them. However, if you don’t want your creativity to be locked in four walls, you have to think about getting the best travel MIDI keyboard.

Now when it comes to picking, you have to think about portability, so the first thing you need to consider is the dimensions and weight of the device. However, there is much more to it. It should also be self-contained and easy to use and connect. So, our choices were based on software integration and the quality of keyboard features such as type of keys, buttons, pads, and knobs. Likewise, MIDI keyboard keys are not made equal, and your style will determine whether you choose weighted, semi-weighted, or synth-action keys. We’ve covered all this intensively in a buying guide further down.

  • Editor’s Choice: Akai Professional MPK MINI MK2 MKII "A compact MIDI keyboard with 25 mini keys and 8 pads, weighing just around 1.6 pounds. 4-way thumbstick. Built-in arpeggiator. Comprehensive software package."
  • Best Value for Money: Akai Professional APC Key 25 "An upgrade pick with 25 mini keys and as many as 40 pads, still being a portable device. Weighs around 2 pounds. Clip-launch matrix with tri-color lighting. Remarkable Live integration."
  • Best Build Quality: Arturia MiniLab MkII "A compact model with a sturdy build at an affordable price, great for starting music production on the go. 25 mini keys. 16 multi-function assignable encoders. AnalogLab software included."
  • Best Tabletop MIDI Controller: M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV "Another lightweight option, yet featuring 25 full-size keys, eight pads, and transport buttons. LCD screen. Sustain pedal input. Software package included."
  • Best Compact MIDI Controller: Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] "Featuring 25 mini keys, 16 pads, and 8 rotary controls, this model gives you deep and intuitive control. Sustain input. Fixed Chord Mode. Built-in arpeggiator."
  • Best Low-key Keyboard: Alesis V25 MIDI Keyboard Controller "Still portable, but a slightly heavier option with full-size keys, assignable knobs, and buttons. Weighs around 4 pounds. Compact design. Software included."
  • Great Start for Beginners: Nektar Midi Controller (IMPACT LX25+) "Another 4-pound option, but more compact than the previous one, with hyper-sensitive backlit pads. Fully programmable controls. 5 user presets. Smart controller and software integration."
  • Ultra-Lightweight MIDI Controller: M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 "A larger model with 32 low profile keys and all necessary controller essentials to create music on the go. Very lightweight. Pro Tools and AIR Music software included. Pitch bend and MOD buttons."

Top 8 Travel MIDI Keyboards Review 2024

Akai professional mpk mini mk2 mkii – editor’s choice.

  • Number of keys: 25
  • Action: synth-action
  • Keys size: mini keys
  • Number of pads: 8
  • Dimensions: 7.13 x 12.4 x 1.75 in.
  • Weight: 1.63 pounds
  • Power supply: USB

Other features: 4-way thumbstick; 8 assignable Q-Link knobs; dedicated Octave Up and Octave Down buttons; comprehensive software package including VIP3.0; 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads; built-in arpeggiator; full-size sustain pedal input jack

Price on Sweetwater

AKAI is the gold standard for many musicians, with the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII being arguably the best travel MIDI keyboard on the market. It comes in a tiny package and small form factor that add to its portability. With dimensions of 15” x 10”, this MIDI keyboard is actually smaller than a standard 15.6” laptop. That means it can easily sneak into any standard backpack. Also, as one of the cheapest machines out there, it’s an absolute joy for amateurs as you get a great bang for the buck.

The build quality is amazing, with robust keys that are well put together, functional pads, and knobs that feel good to touch. The edges are smooth so as not to tear your backpack and you can choose from black, white, and red shades to match your style.

When it comes to performance, the MPK is above average. The synth-action keyboard has just three touch sensitivity settings, but we like its large and comfortable keys. This will do for studio use, enabling you to enter simple melodies and chords into your DAW, but not compose multiplex piano pieces. There are 8 programmable pads, which are velocity-sensitive, though some may find them quite small. This MIDI keyboard also comes with 8 programmable knobs, which are Q-link enabled so you can easily control filters, envelopes, and oscillators in your DAW.

The power supply is via USB and this makes it incredibly easy to use. Simply plug it in and launch your DAW. Its compatibility with most DAWs also makes it possible to plug and play. There’s even an MKII editor for using presets and making custom configurations.

A range of software is also available for this product, including Hybrid 3, SONiVOX wobble, MPC Essentials, and VIP 3.1. Overall, you’ll like the design and decent performance, perfect for studio use and making music on the go.

What makes it special?

  • Highly portable that it easily fits in a laptop bag
  • Comes with bundled software; MPC Essentials, VIP 3.1, etc.
  • 8 velocity-sensitive pads
  • 8 programmable knobs for tweaking or mixing synth effects
  • More affordable than other MIDI controllers
  • USB plug and play, thus easy to use

What cons did we find?

  • Small keys that fingers may feel cramped

Akai Professional APC Key 25 – Best Value for Money

  • Number of pads: 40
  • Dimensions: 7.6 x 12.3 x 1.7 in.
  • Weight: 1.85 pounds

Other features: 8 assignable knobs; clip-launch matrix with tri-color lighting; includes Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist, and Toolroom artist launch packs and VIP3.0

preview

Mini keyboards are no doubt designed to fit in a backpack alongside a laptop, but the Akai Professional APC Key 25 is different because it’s the only live-specific unit around. This offering results from a collaboration of Akai and Ableton, thus the name APC (Ableton Performance Controller). The APC 25 is very compact and portable, with an all-plastic construction that’s robust enough to throw it around.

A USB port on the side allows you to connect your PC or Mac, and no drivers are required because it’s class-compliant. Moreover, this connection provides the power and MIDI, meaning you don’t need a power supply. It offers 25 synth-action mini keys, which are really good for melodies, simple chords, and basslines, but you won’t be playing sonatas on these ones. Although they’re small, they are properly designed and will let you enter clips precisely, ideal for beat-style or synth playing. Anything complex would be too much to ask of this MIDI keyboard.

The front panel includes the keyboard plus live controls. There are 25 keys, as the name suggests, in addition to many other potentiometers and buttons, all of which are customized to suit various needs. Most prominent are the 40 LED-backlit pads with fully customized colors. These can be activated to play certain samples or tracks with a single press.

There are 8 knobs, which are fully programmable in Ableton. These are useful in fading tracks in and out, shifting the pitch of any clip up or down, and controlling the intensity of a particular effect on any given track. You also get a sustain button that lets you obtain realistic piano effects. Last but not least, it comes with the revolutionary VIP 3.0 software that lets you manage your virtual instruments in a seamless way.

If you’re looking for a MIDI keyboard that offers multiple possibilities for creativity in both studio and live performance, the APC Key 25 is a great choice.

Why is it special?

  • Superb portable design to use on the go
  • Remarkable Live integration and requires no set up with Live
  • Includes innovative software solutions
  • Intuitive buttons and other controls
  • Incredible budget price at less than $100

What are the flaws?

  • Plastic casing may damage easily if abused
  • Launch buttons are quite small to use regularly

Arturia MiniLab MkII – Best Build Quality

  • Dimensions: 14 x 9 x 1.5 in.
  • Weight: 3.2 pounds

Other features: 2 banks for multi-color pads; 16 multi-function encoders; pitch bend and modulation touch strips; footswitch input; 500 sounds; AnalogLab software included

preview

The Arturia MiniLab MkII is an essential device for musicians on the go and studios where space is at a premium. It looks stunning at first glance with its slim keys being a major selling point. The keys are actually designed that way for improved action – you don’t get that with many mini keyboards. One thing that pianists will appreciate is the availability of a sustain pedal, which is situated on the back of the back panel. Next to it is a USB port that lets you connect to a Mac or PC for power.

There are 8 drum pads with two banks, and that literally means you have 16 pads to play with. In addition, you get 16 knobs that are useful in mapping and programming your DAW. Moving on to the top left of the front panel you’ll find two-octave buttons plus two modulation strips (a pitch bend and modulation strip). Also available is a handy shift button that lets you choose MIDI presets and channels.

What’s more? It comes loaded with top-of-the-range software including ANALOG LAB LITE, Ableton Live Lite, and Grand Piano Model D. The former offers 500 of the best synth sounds, something that beginners will appreciate. The second allows you to record and produce your music. The third one is quite interesting, producing sounds similar to a real Steinway piano that you would find in grand concert halls. Add the velocity-sensitive keys into the mix and you’d be really playing music, rather than dabbling.

At 3.2 pounds, the MiniLab MKII ranks among the most lightweight MIDI keyboards available. Durability is also of important note here as the controller will be able to withstand regular travels. All in all, this Arturia is a great starting point for studio work or even on the road. Its range of sounds is a huge bonus.

Why are we impressed?

  • Portable and compact MIDI controller
  • Extremely sensitive keyboard
  • Includes 500 sounds of the V-collection
  • Comes with fully mapped synthesizers
  • Has 16 programmable encoders to control your DAW

What negatives must you be aware of?

  • Drum pads feel too stiff

M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV – Best Tabletop MIDI Controller

  • Keys size: full-size keys
  • Dimensions: 19.4 x 9.6 x 3.7 in.
  • Weight: 1.65 pounds

Other features: 8 assignable knobs; assignable fader; transport buttons; LCD screen; sustain pedal input; includes Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2 and VIP3.0

preview

This M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV is a popular choice for aspiring producers doing music from their home studios. As the title suggests, it’s a small, 25 key device with some nifty features and connects to your PC via USB.

One thing to note is that this MIDI controller is by no means a compact machine as it measures 20 x 10 inches (L x W). Contributing to this factor are the full-sized keys with the standard MOD and PITCH wheels on the left side. That makes it suitable for a studio setup where there’s space on the main desk or if there’s a side table for it to rest on.

However, in exchange for the size, the full-sized keys make the best feature of this unit. These ones feel so much better than mini-keys and the extra space between them give your fingers plenty of room to move around. They’re also very responsive and soft to touch, meaning you won’t have to exert too much pressure on them when playing.

Elsewhere, there are 8 drum pads that are rubbery, soft, and very comfortable to tap rhythms on. While you can change the octaves of these pads, it’s hard to program them to fit your DAW. In the event that the default pad sensitivity doesn’t work, however, you can easily change it within the MINI keyboard without using any special hardware.

In addition, you get 8 rotary knobs to do sound tweaking whether in the studio or during live performances. They feel standard and well-made, but don’t have adequate resistance when you turn them. As such, they compromise on feedback and may not be very accurate.

Lastly, the unit doesn’t come with bundled software, but it does offer straightforward integration with popular DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic, and Pro Tools. Also important to mention are the transport buttons that allow you to control your DAW without a mouse.

  • 25 full-sized velocity-sensitive keys
  • 8 assignable knobs for manipulating virtual instruments
  • With transport buttons to control your DAW without using a mouse
  • Integrates with popular DAWS; Ableton Live, Logic, Pro Tools, etc.
  • Powered by USB with plug and play support and USB-MIDI connectivity
  • Features sustain pedal input for additional creative control
  • Difficult to shift notes
  • Less resistant knobs, so accuracy may be an issue

Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] – Best Compact MIDI Controller

  • Number of pads: 16
  • Dimensions: 13 x 6.8 x 1.6 in.
  • Weight: 2.45 pounds

Other features: deep and intuitive Ableton Live control; velocity-sensitive RGB pads; 8 rotary controls; pitch and Mod touch strips; Sustain input; Fixed chord Mode; built-in arpeggiator

preview

Novation claims the Lauchkey Mini MK3 is their most compact and portable 25-key MIDI keyboard controller. There’s no question though, given its 13 x 6.8 x 1.6 dimensions; it’s smaller than a standard 15.6-inch laptop, so it will fit into any bag. It comes with nifty features including Ableton control, creative arpeggiator with 4 octaves of range, Fixed chord mode to trigger chords from notes, MIDI out, and multiple sounds, allowing you to make tracks anywhere.

In terms of software, the unit comes with Ableton Live Lite and since it’s designed to partner it, you’ll get deeper integration than previous versions. From clip and scene launch to track select and transport control, device macros, and great mixing support such as volume, mute and pan, there is a lot to navigate around a Live session. You also get Logic Pro support as well as support for the HUI protocol integrating with Pro Tools, Cubase, among other DAWS.

Getting started is simply a matter of connecting the controller to your PC or Mac via USB. The front panel is well designed with 25 mini keys but they’re perfectly playable. There are 8 rotary encoders plus pitch and modulation strips, as well as 16 RGB backlit pads that changes depending on the context and velocity sensitivity. While there’s no screen, everything is well labelled for easy use and you can always rely on Shift + function.

Overall, this a great little controller that can communicate with your MIDI hardware and computer, with excellent integration with Ableton Live. A sweet deal at just under $100.

  • Extremely compact and portable.
  • 16 backlit pads with RGB lighting
  • Comes with Ableton Live Lite
  • Has sustain input to enhance usability
  • Great arpeggiator and Chord features
  • Top notch Live control
  • Decent software bundle
  • Mini keys on keyboard not for everyone
  • No aftertouch

Alesis V25 MIDI Keyboard Controller – Best Low-key Keyboard

  • Dimensions: 9.6 x 24.6 x 4.5 in.
  • Weight: 3.8 pounds

Other features: 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons; Octave Up and Down buttons; Ableton Live Lite 9 and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech software included

preview

Alesis offers a variety of MIDI keyboards and the V25 is one of their mid-level controllers. Weighing 3.8 pounds, this unit is relatively lightweight for most people to take on travel, though it’s on the heavier side compared to the majority of models in this post. To use the keyboard, all you to do is plug in to your PC and your DAW will detect it instantly. You may still have to find it among your MIDI network in the settings option.

The keys here are full-sized and velocity-sensitive, which is obviously what most producers want; most travel keyboards in this price range have tiny mini-keys. They also have a semi-weighted feel and a good response. Moving on to the drum pads, there are 8 of them that are backlit and velocity-sensitive. You can change the drum pads velocity curves by installing the V-Series Editor, allowing you to jump from 8 to 32 assignable pads.

You also get 4 knobs to enable you to control mixer settings or assign them to some parameters in your effects and plugins. They can even be assigned to any function utilizing the MIDI Learn function. These aren’t encoders with the ability to rotate 360 degrees but they have a decent 270-degree range. Worth mentioning is that they are impressively backlit, adding more aesthetic when playing in the dark.

Other controls include pitch and MOD wheels, which are a favorite with most people compared to buttons. Octave up and down buttons are a nice addition to the 25 keys, so you can achieve a higher range of notes if necessary. Lastly, the V25 comes with a good starter kit in the form of Ableton Live Lite 9 and Xpand!2 software, which integrate well with Ableton.

What makes it stand out?

  • Compact design that doesn’t take too much space on your desk
  • Full-sized, velocity-sensitive keys
  • 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads
  • 4 rotary knobs to control mixer settings and effects
  • An affordable 25-key MIDI keyboard

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • Unable to manipulate velocity settings
  • No transport controls

Nektar Midi Controller (IMPACT LX25+) – Great Start for Beginners

  • Dimensions: 18.3 x 10.5 x 2.3 in.
  • Weight: 4 pounds

Other features: hyper-sensitive backlit pads; on-board pitch bend; modulation wheels; fully programmable controls and 5 user presets; smart controller and software integration

preview

This Nektar Midi Controller IMPACT LX25+ is one of the popular MIDI keyboards for starters. A good selling point is its compatibility with iOS, which allows you to connect it to your iPad as well as use in Garage Band. These are neat functions especially for anyone using an iPad Pro as their computer for music production.

When it comes to functionality, expect this controller to be different from the “average” MIDI keyboards. Apart from 8 drum pads and 2 wheels, it has many more advanced features that novices will love. The knobs on this unit are designed to be used with mostly synth and bass. Four of them are set to adjust the oscillation tune, level and two modes, while the other four are to manipulate resonance, envelope amount, low-frequency oscillation and cutoff frequencies.

You’ll have to be patient to learn how to produce cool sounds with these knobs. While you may use its 5 user presets, understanding how sound generators work would be game-changing. A real cool feature to help you learn things is the “Pad Learn”, which allows you to select a pad, play the note you want on the keyboard and assignment is done.

The control panel is not only easy to use because everything is well-labeled, but also due to LED illumination around the pads. You’ll also find 6 dedicated transport buttons within reach and mapped to control Play, Record, Cycle, Rewind, Forward, and Stop. The MIDI controller software integration supports most of the popular DAWs including Cubase, FL Studio, Logic, Studio One, Nuendo, and more.

At 4 pounds, this MIDI controller is the heaviest model in our picks, but that’s still manageable to carry. All in all, the Impact LX25+ is really a breeze to use, thus a good one for beginners.

What are our favorite features?

  • Integrates seamlessly with all popular DAWs
  • Full-sized and velocity-sensitive keys which are perfect for learners
  • Includes transport controls so you can record melodies with a press of a button
  • Lots of pads, knobs and buttons to better control of your mix

What could be better?

  • Quite heavy and bulky

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 – Ultra-Lightweight MIDI Controller

  • Number of keys: 32
  • Number of pads: N/A
  • Dimensions: 16.46 x 0.78 x 4.13 in
  • Weight: 1 pound

Other features: pitch bend and modulation buttons; octave up and down buttons; volume knob; includes Pro Tools | First M-Audio Edition and AIR Music Technology Xpand!2 software

preview

One of the best-selling keyboard controllers in the world, the M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 lets you create and perform music with your PC or Mac.

It features 32 mini-sized velocity-sensitive keys plus comprehensive controls that widen the range of playable notes and improve your expressive possibilities. The controller has been designed to help you maximize your creativity while minimizing complication. You can utilize the volume knob, dedicated pitch-bend, and modulation buttons, and the fully-assignable octave up and down buttons to play and perform with your music software.

Speaking of software, the controller comes with Pro Tool | First M-Audio Edition, which will inspire you to create, record, and share your ideas across the world. The software features unlimited busses, offline bounce, elastic pitch and elastic time, and 1GB free cloud storage space for accessing your files from any PC anywhere that has an internet connection. Another ready-to-use software is the AIR Music Xpand!2, offering four active sound slots per patch. You get thousands of ready-to-play patches from this software.

One thing you’ll notice is that this unit is ultra-light at a mere 1 pound. It makes the perfect companion for traveling musicians who want to take control of music software during live sessions or for producers who are mindful of the footprint in their studios. The MIDI controller is USB-powered and supports USB-MIDI connectivity, allowing you to compose with audio apps on iOS devices.

Whether you’re looking to get started with the right MINI keyboard or you’re a seasoned professional seeking just the right controller, this one is for you.

What are its best features?

  • USB power and data provides single-cable convenience
  • Comes with Pro Tools and AIR Music software
  • Includes octave up and down buttons for extended range
  • With pitch bend and MOD buttons for added expression
  • Has 32 low-profile velocity-sensitive mini-keys

What could be improved?

  • Doesn’t work reliably on Windows 10

Things to Consider

Before you get your hands on any travel MIDI keyboard, you got to know the basics. This guide will take you through what you need to know when shopping for one.

What can be considered a travel MIDI keyboard controller?

Top 8 MIDI Keyboards to Travel With – Get Portability Without Sacrificing Features

Now, MIDI keyboards should not be confused with piano keyboards. The latter actually produce sounds whereas the former is used for recording purposes. MIDI keyboards form part of the setup used in a typical music studio to produce music. Apart from keys, they constitute other buttons, wheels, and sliders for sending MIDI signals or commands over a MIDI 5-pin cable of USB to other musical instruments or computers connected and functioning on the same MIDI protocol.

Features to consider when choosing a MIDI keyboard

Choosing the best MIDI controller can be confusing, especially if you are a novice in music production. Below are the key aspects to consider when shopping for a good one.

Number and size of keys

The best portable MIDI keyboards have 25 keys, but you can find 32, 49, 61, and 88-key units. For the purpose of this post, however, we only covered 25 and 32-key MIDI controllers as these are the most portable. The number of keys determines how many octaves you can play with your controller. For instance, 25 keys spans over two octaves. These, however, are only good for playing short basslines and cannot play bass and treble lines at the same time.

Think about the size of the keys too. Weighted action MIDI keyboards nearly always have full-size keys similar to a piano. Semi-weighted keys come in various sizes from mini to full-size. The choice here depends on the skills of the user, space limitations, portability, and probably even the hand size of the player.

This refers to how the keys respond to your touch. There are three types of action:

  • Weighted hammer action – these closely imitate the feel of a traditional piano. This type is less common with MIDI keyboards and those that have it tend to be quite expensive.
  • Semi-weighted – they use a lightweight attached to the end of each key. This setup is ideal for most players because it allows traditional jamming as well as MIDI note entering. Many mid and high-end units provide this type of action.
  • Synth-action – these are spring-loaded but without integrated weight. As a result, they are easy to press down and they produce a swift response. Their lack of resistance, however, makes them poor for jamming.

Aftertouch is a brilliant way to add expressiveness to your playing because this feature sends extra messages to your DAW. It can help in emphasizing melodies and chords, but it’s something you don’t find in each MIDI controller out there. Aftertouch encompasses the volume swells, pitch bends, vibrato, and more. It comes to attention when punctured for an extended time period.

Inputs and Outputs

Almost every MIDI keyboard uses a USB output to transmit MIDI data, but other higher-end units include an array of outputs for versatility. One such output is the 5-pin MIDI DIN, which allows for connection to external synthesizers and music devices. This can be a really useful feature if you want the ability to play and modulate external devices.

MIDI controllers are also equipped with jacks for sustain or expression pedals. The former is perfect for achieving that realistic piano-style playing while the latter is idea for controlling and moderating variables of your choice. Both can enhance your playing.

Top 8 MIDI Keyboards to Travel With – Get Portability Without Sacrificing Features

Buttons, faders and knobs

Buttons could typically be assigned for accessing the menus, settings, octave up/down, MIDI information, transport, and transpose functions. Faders are basically for equalizer control and organ modulation. Knobs are also assignable to almost any function, ascribed majorly for endless encoding.

Power supply

The best small MIDI keyboard is either bus-powered or battery-operated. The first one allows you to power the device from your laptop or PC via USB connection; no external power source required or long cables to carry around. However, larger MIDI keyboards may use an external power source – an AC adaptor.

Software included

Most MIDI keyboards will work straight out of the box with popular DAWs such as Ableton. From our list, these include the likes of Akai Professional APC Key 25 , Alesis V25 , and Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 , which come with Ableton Live feature. Still, DAWs are made different so if you’re using particular software, it would be in your best interest to get a unit geared towards that software.

Some other software include FL Studio, GarageBand/Logic Pro X, and Cubase. The Launchkey Mini MK3 works with most of these.

What’s the best MIDI keyboard for my DAW?

It depends on the software you are accustomed to. Simply look at one that allows integration with your DAW and go with it, keeping in mind other factors mentioned above.

What is the difference between a MIDI keyboard controller and a regular keyboard?

A MIDI controller is typically a keyboard with MIDI capabilities but without onboard sounds, therefore, no audio output. The only thing it does is as you play the keys, it sends MIDI messages to an external MIDI-capable sound module or equipment.

However, a standard keyboard has an internal sound generation engine plus audio output. It does not need extra equipment for it to work.

What is key action, and which do I need?

Key action refers to how a key responds to impact. The type of action you need depends on your playing style. If you just want to enter MIDI notes, choose the synth-action keys or semi-weighted keys. To achieve something similar to a real piano, pick fully-weighted keys for improved playability. If you want a balance of piano and MIDI capabilities, choose semi-weighted keys.

How do MIDI keyboard controllers connect to my laptop, tablet etc.?

The old-school way of connecting a MIDI keyboard to an external device like PC or laptop is using a 5-pin DIN cable. However, this cable is slowly been eliminated by modern USB connection, which is accepted by nearly all computers and hardware.

Our Verdict

The best travel MIDI keyboard will not only allow you to optimize your workflow together with your DAW but also remain handy to use on the road. The reason why we picked the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII is that it does that very well and it cost very little to obtain. Moreover, Akai is an industry leader and so you can trust it lives up to the fame. The included arpeggiator and full-size sustain pedal input jack are also nice additions, allowing beginners to use the unit with confidence.

The Akai Professional APC Key 25 comes in second and would be the ideal option for experienced players. The inclusion of Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech’s Hybrid 3, VIP3.0 and SONiVOX Twist software makes it such an irresistible device for both studio and live performance works.

If you need a cheap option, the Arturia MiniLab MKII 25 is the go-to gear to use on the road and in studio. This bus-powered unit features 16 encoders, built-in RGB lit pads, and two touch strips to control pitch and modulation, all wrapped in a compact and lightweight 25-key unit.

So, have you found your best travel MIDI keyboard controller? Have you used any of the above units before? Let us know your experiences.

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Audiophiles

Best Travel MIDI Keyboards 2024

  • January 2, 2024

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 - 25 Key USB MIDI...

A MIDI keyboard controller enables all computers and instruments in a music studio to connect with one another. If you don’t want your creativity to be restricted to four walls, you might consider investing in the best travel MIDI keyboard.

These ubiquitous gadgets may be plugged directly into your PC or laptop through USB – or even function wirelessly over Bluetooth in certain situations – and let you to perform and record with your DAW’s software instruments and any VST synth plugins you may have installed. Some can also control hardware synths, turning them into a central performance hub for your studio.

Depending on your requirements, you have a variety of options to pick from. You can pick for a full-size 88-note model with weighted hammer-action keys or a tiny, portable MIDI keyboard that fits neatly in a laptop bag. Most of the alternatives we propose have extra features like knobs, pads, buttons, and faders to help you be more creative and have more control over your software bundle.

Table of Contents

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3

  • Music Production and Beat Maker Essential – USB powered MIDI controller...
  • Total Control of Your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic...
  • The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-Style MIDI beat pads...

The Akai MPK Tiny MK3 is the world’s best-selling mini keyboard controller and considered the gold standard. Its small size makes it ideal for travel, and the large number of pads and assignable controls allow you to handle every part of your production. Simply put, the MPK is one of the most capable MIDI controllers available today.

The third-generation MPK Tiny has been updated to improve playability and incorporates Akai’s Gen 2 dynamic mini keyboard. The MPK features excellent keys for putting down virtual pianos, EPs, and synthesizers, as well as orchestral instruments. This tiny keyboard is a force to be reckoned with at a very affordable price tag making it the best portable midi keyboard in 2023 .

The Akai MPK Mini MK III has eight velocity sensitive drum pads that deliver excellent touch for accurate finger drumming and melodic sample playback with a number of keys that are pressure sensitivity. There are also knobs for excellent hands-on control of any assignable parameter in your music software. You can modify EQ, sweep a filter open on the go, and push up a reverb tail coming out of a guitar solo all with remarkable precision with the MPK Mini MK III.

The Akai MPK Mini keyboard controller comes with 1500 downloadable sounds, MPC Beats, and six virtual instruments (Bassline, Tubesynth, Electric, Hybrid 3, Mini Grand, and Velvet), as well as 2GB of sound content to get you started on your music production adventure. The power supply is via USB, which makes it extremely convenient to use. Simply connect it to your computer and start your DAW. Its plug-and-play interoperability with most DAWs makes it easy to use. There’s even an MKII editor for customizing settings and using presets. This device also comes with a variety of applications, including Hybrid 3, SONiVOX wobbling, MPC Essentials, and VIP 3.1. Overall, the design and performance are good, making it ideal for studio use and composing music on the go.

A 4-way joystick for dynamic pitch/modulation control, velocity sensitive pads, headphone jack, built-in arpeggiator with customizable resolution, range, and modes, dedicated Octave Up and Octave Down buttons, onboard arpeggiator, and a Tap Tempo button round out the MPK Mini III’s capabilities. To top it off, the MK III has USB-MIDI interface for Mac/PC, is USB-powered, and doesn’t require a power adapter. For all of its features, mobility, and durability, this is an excellent pick. This is the Best Travel MIDI Keyboard in 2023 .

Arturia KeyStep 37

Arturia KeyStep 37 Controller & Sequencer...

  • CREATIVE IDEA GENERATOR: A powerful tool that seamlessly controls your...
  • CREATIVITY SIMPLIFIED: Bring movement to your melodies with 8 arp modes,...
  • INTUITIVE SEQUENCER: Experiment with intuitive step-sequencing or live...

The Arturia KeyStep 37 has a velocity-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch and RGB LED feedback, which are features that are usually reserved for more expensive keyboards. Hardware control of sequencing , arpeggiation, chords, and melodies is available with the Arturia KeyStep 37. This compact keyboard is jam-packed with smart functions that will boost your productivity. The KeyStep 37 comes with Ableton Live Lite in addition to its 37-note keyboard, knobs, buttons, and LED screen, making it a complete solution for your portable DAW.

This keyboard also has control-voltage (CV) pitch, gate, and modulation connectors, allowing it to be used with modular synthesizers . A 64-step polyphonic sequencer with eight patterns, an 8-mode arpeggiator with additional random modes, and a unique Chord mode with 12 voicings were also incorporated by Arturia. Choose from 12 chord types and a variety of strum effects in this Chord mode, then spread the voices out into intricate, velocity-sensitive parts that sound and respond fantastically.

Scale mode, on the other hand, allows you to map out KeyStep’s 3-octave keyboard range using any scale you like. Do you have a basic understanding of music theory? Don’t be concerned! Any key you play will quantize to the nearest note in the scale you’ve chosen. The Arturia KeyStep 37 also has 16 MIDI CC parameters spread out over four switchable banks, allowing you to tweak your settings in real time with four additional rotary controllers.

To top it off, Ableton Live Lite and the MIDI Control Center app come pre-installed on the Arturia KeyStep 37, making MIDI mapping a breeze on this best midi keyboard for travel . Overall, this is a terrific portable keyboard that is especially suited for gear heads, but it includes enough functionality to satisfy everyone. This is the Best Travel MIDI Keyboards in 2023 .

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 Controller Keyboard

  • 32 compact keys to control all your instruments and effects
  • Sleek and solid design, fused with professional production features
  • Comes with a powerful software package, including synths, basses, drums,...

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 is an excellent option for those looking for a low-cost tiny MIDI keyboard controller. The M32 offers a large choice of instruments and effects from NI and an ever-growing collection of NKS partners, in addition to being portable and packed with features. The Komplete Kontrol 32 comes with included software, including Ableton Live 10 Lite, allowing you to get started producing at home or on the move.

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 is a small, portable MIDI controller with a lot of functionality. This little, portable keyboard is a great way to get started with NI at a low cost. 8 touch-sensitive control knobs, 2 touch strips for intuitive expressiveness, and a 4-directional push encoder for one-handed sound browsing and project navigation are all included in the Komplete Kontrol M32.

This Native Instruments small controller also comes with tag-based preset browsing via the Komplete Kontrol software, which allows you to easily select sounds and hear fast previews. The Smart Play feature on the M32 allows you to stay in key with over 100 scales and modes, play chord progressions and arpeggios with single keys, or map any scale to only white keys.

Komplete Kontrol software includes pre-mapped control of Komplete instruments and effects, as well as hundreds of Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) plug-ins from top manufacturers. The M32 also includes full VST compatibility, deep integration with Maschine software, easy control over Logic Pro X , GarageBand, and Ableton Live, and USB 2.0 bus power. This is one of the better starter selections because it includes everything you’ll need to get started.

Nektar SE25 | USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with Nektar DAW Integration

Nektar SE25 | USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with...

  • Compact, expressive and rugged MIDI keyboard for when you want to make...
  • Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs
  • Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software...

The Nektar SE25 is a fantastic small keyboard with exceptional velocity sensitive mini keys in a tough and portable package for the digital performer hardware control. You can use the SE25 to handle transport functions as well as track selection after downloading Nektar’s DAW integration software, making this compact keyboard a wonderful choice for anyone wishing to take their DAW on the road.

The Nektar SE25’s velocity-sensitive tiny keys are one of its best features. These little keys have a wonderful rebound and a nice hard feel to them. Three alternative velocity curves are included in Nektar, allowing you to tailor the keyboard response to your specific playing style. The SE25 has a simple user interface with six buttons to the left of the keyboard that are pre-assigned for octave shift, transpose, and sustain pedal.

If you don’t require transpose functionality or synth action keys, the SE25 allows you to assign the transpose buttons to manage pitch bend, MIDI volume, pan, track, or patch change instead. The “S” sustain button can also be repurposed as a modulation control. The Nektar SE25 has a one-of-a-kind Part Two feature that allows you to play in unconventional ways. You can add an octave or harmony layer while playing, or switch to a different MIDI channel, by hitting the “2” button to temporarily shift octaves.

The SE25 reverts to its original settings when you press the Part Two button, allowing you to switch between two alternative keyboard configurations in real time. Furthermore, the “2” button can be assigned to Octave, MIDI Channel, Transpose, Layer, and Latch functions, or a combination of them.

Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live

Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key,...

  • Get hands on with Ableton Live - Have a seamless music making experience...
  • Get creative easily with arpeggiator - Easy to use but deeply controllable,...
  • Play chords with one finger - Lay down chords for your track quick with...

The Lauchkey Mini MK3 is Novation’s smallest and most portable 25-key MIDI keyboard controller , according to the company. Given its dimensions of 13 x 6.8 x 1.6 inches, it is clearly smaller than a conventional 15.6-inch laptop and will fit into any luggage. It includes Ableton control, a creative arpeggiator with 4 octaves of range, 8 rotary controls. Fixed chord mode to trigger chords from notes, MIDI out, and numerous sounds, allowing you to create music anywhere.

In terms of software, the unit comes with Ableton Live Lite, which has a greater integration than earlier versions because it was built to work with it. There’s a lot to move around in a Live session, from clip and scene launch to track select and transport controls, device macros, and superb mixing support like volume, mute, and pan. You also get support for Logic Pro and the HUI protocol, which allows you to integrate with Pro Tools, Cubase, and other DAWs.

In addition, the Chord Modes turn the Launchkey MK3’s keys and pads into an interactive control surface with tonal and harmonic associations for every note you play. The arpeggiator allows you to experiment with fresh ideas, while the Mutate feature allows you to reorganize your patterns in a creative way. Custom Modes are another fantastic feature of the Launchkey MK3. You may make communication between the controller and the program easier here with each other. Custom Modes allow you to change your Launchkey’s behavior, including control assignments, MIDI routing, pad color, and more.

A TRS Type A 1/8-inch MIDI connection on the Launchkey MK3 allows you to connect your external gear. Whether you use it alone or with a computer, you can connect your hardware synths and gadgets to your setup and control everything from your Launchkey.

Connecting the controller to your PC or Mac through USB port is all it takes to get started. The front panel is well-designed, with 25 small keys that are all functional. There are eight rotary encoders, as well as pitch and modulation strips and 16 RGB illuminated pads that change color depending on context and velocity sensitivity. While there is no screen, everything is well labeled for ease of use, and the Shift + function is always available.

Overall, this is a fantastic small controller that can connect with both your MIDI hardware and your computer, and it works seamlessly with Ableton Live. At just under $100, it’s a steal.

M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV | 25-Key USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller with Velocity-Sensitive Keys and Pads, Plus ProTools

M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV | USB Keyboard and Pad MIDI...

  • Compact, ultra portable performance keyboard controller with 25 full size,...
  • 8 velocity sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching,...
  • Dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full...

For budding producers working from home studios, the M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV is a popular choice for a travel companion. It’s a little, 25-key device with some cool capabilities that connects to your PC through USB, as the name implies. One thing to keep in mind is that this MIDI controller is not small, measuring 20 x 10 inches (L x W). The full-sized keys on the left side, along with the usual MOD and PITCH wheels, contribute to this. That makes it ideal for a studio setting if there is room on the main desk or a side table to place it on.

However, the quality keys provide this unit’s best feature in exchange for its size. These are far more comfortable to use than mini-keys, and the increased space between them allows your fingers to wander about freely in your home studio. They’re also highly responsive and gentle to the touch, so you won’t have to apply a lot of pressure when playing.

There are also eight rubbery, squishy, and incredibly comfy to tap beats on drum pads. While you may modify the octaves on these pads, programming them to work with your DAW is difficult. If the default pad sensitivity does not work for you, you may easily alter it within the MINI keyboard without any external hardware. You also get eight rotary knobs to alter the sound in the studio or during live performances. When you turn them, they feel standard and well-made, but there isn’t enough resistance. As a result, they make compromises in terms of input and may not be entirely accurate.

Finally, while the unit doesn’t include any software, it does have simple integration with popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic, and Pro Tools. The transport buttons, which allow you to control your DAW without using a mouse, are also worth mentioning.

Alesis V25 – 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Alesis V25 - 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller...

  • MIDI Keyboard with 25 full-sized, velocity sensitive square-front keys,...
  • 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit pads for beat production and...
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons interface with your music...

The V25 is a mid-level controller from Alesis, which offers a variety of MIDI keyboards. This unit is very lightweight for most individuals to carry on travel, weighing 3.8 pounds, albeit it is heavier than the majority of the models in this list. All you have to do to use the keyboard is plug it into your computer, and your DAW will recognize it right away. It’s possible that you’ll have to look for it in the settings option among your MIDI network.

Most travel keyboards in this price range feature small mini-keys, so full-sized and velocity-sensitive keys are obviously what most producers desire. They also have a good responsiveness and a semi-weighted keys. The drum pads are illuminated and velocity-sensitive, and there are eight of them. Installing the V-Series Editor allows you to adjust the velocity curves of the drum pads, allowing you to go from 8 to 32 assignable pads.

You also receive four knobs, which you may use to control mixer settings or assign to effects and plugin parameters. The MIDI Learn function can even be used to assign them to any function. These encoders don’t have a 360-degree rotation range, but they do have a good 270-degree range. They are also attractively illuminated, which adds to the beauty when playing in the dark.

Other controls include pitch and MOD wheels, which are more popular than buttons for most people. The addition of Octave up and down buttons to the 25 keys allows you to reach a wider range of sounds if needed. Finally, the V25 includes a useful starter kit in the shape of Ableton Live Lite 9 and Xpand!2 software, both of which work nicely with Ableton.

Korg microKEY air 25 – Key Bluetooth and USB MIDI Controller

Korg microKEY air 25 - Key Bluetooth and USB MIDI...

  • Connect wirelessly to iPad, iPhone, or Mac
  • Connect with a single USB cable; supports Mac, Win, iPad, and iPhone
  • Lasts a month between battery changes

The 25-key Korg microKEY Air MIDI controller keyboard is the epitome of portability. You don’t even need to remember to bring a USB cable if you grab your laptop or mobile device and your microKEY Air. For those looking for a really portable keyboard to use in their on-the-go music creation activities, the Korg microKey Air 25 offers an elegant and simplified answer. With just a pair of AA batteries, this Bluetooth-enabled controller may connect wirelessly to your computer or mobile device for around 30 hours of low-latency virtual instrument control. You can even use your iPhone or iPad to charge it.

The microKEY Air-25’s main selling point is that it works with Bluetooth Smart “Apple Bluetooth Low Energy MIDI.” It’s completely portable, with the extra benefit of not requiring any cords to operate. The microKey may be used with MIDI-capable music production software on your Mac or Windows computer, as well as iPad/iPhone music apps like KORG Gadget, KORG Module, and GarageBand.

The microKEY Air is powered by two AA batteries and can be connected to a computer via a USB cable. You only need a single USB cable to connect the microKEY to your computer because it is powered through the USB bus. There’s no need to install a driver; simply use your favorite music software (or any of the microKEY Air apps), connect it to your computer, and you’re ready to go.

This micro keyboard also includes a velocity-sensing keybed, a pitch/mod joystick, octave selection buttons, and a sustain button, as well as 25 Natural Touch small keys that allow you to play over two octaves at once. The Legacy Collection M1 Le, UVI Digital Synsations, AAS modules, and Propellerhead Reason Limited are also included with the Korg microKEY. In other words, if you want to make music on the go and without cords, this is a terrific option.

You might also like...

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  • Home Theater
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© 2023 Audiophiles Disclosure: We may receive commissions when you purchase using our links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Updated January 2, 2024

  • MIDI Controllers

10 Best Travel MIDI Keyboards in 2024 — Top Picks and Reviews

Best Travel Midi Keyboards

Love to make beats but so busy to sit around and dwell inside your home studio? How about having a travel MIDI keyboard with you?

So, the next time you have an inspiration, you can easily make it into a new music piece

If you’re planning to own a MIDI keyboard, you’ve come to the right place. We have a few recommendations here to get you started.

We include the pros and cons, as well as tips for you to really pick the one that suits your needs.

O f course, we’ll share with you our best bet, right at the end of the discussions.

We only give you a quick and precise description of every product — specifically on the features. Read on and learn more!

10 Best Travel MIDI Keyboards in 2024

Akai professional mpk mini mkii, m-audio oxygen 25 mk iv usb pad, arturia keystep, novation launchkey 25 usb keyboard, m-audio 32 keys keystation mini 32, cme xkey 25 note gun metal gray, native instruments komplete kontrol a25, qunexus smart sensor keyboard controller, roli seaboard block, nektar impact lx88+.

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII has 25-velocity sensitive keys with dedicated up/down buttons to make you achieve a full melodic range keyboard. It has 4-way thumbstick for the pitch and modulation control.

Comes with an arpeggiator with resolution, range, and modes that are adjustable. It has a few hardware controls that let you compose and record with the effect plugins, virtual instruments and DAWs anytime.

It has two banks of eight backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads, eight assignable Q-Link knobs and ¼-inch input for sustain pedal if you use one.

This machine is already bundled with software and downloadable virtual instruments for you to easily make beats and music whenever inspiration strikes. It’s plug-and-play and can be connected to a Mac or Windows PC with a USB cable.

  • Functions well
  • Beautiful aesthetics
  • Budget-friendly and the cheapest way to learn digital music making
  • Build seems poor and flimsy
  • Paperweight
  • Complicated software setup
  • Need to be resourceful and have self-study

M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV USB Pad

Whether you are using the popular Ableton Live, Pro Tools or Cubase, you got everything ready for integration with M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV USB Pad .

The DirectLink helps you map the parameters from the keyboard to your favorite DAW, so you can make tweaks to the mixers, editors and transport windows. It comes with 25-note, full-size synth-action, velocity-sensitive keys, eight velocity-sensitive pads, assignable knobs, and transport controls.

With built-in customizable mapping presets you can easily interface it with the effect plug-ins and virtual instruments. The transport controls allow you to initiate play, stop and record to your favorite DAW from your keyboard controller.

With Pro Tools and Virtual Instrument Player (VIP) you can experience more versatility and flexibility with your music production.

  • Pads seem nice
  • Velocity-sensitive and keep up with aggressive tapping
  • Keys are nice to touch with a decent tactile feel
  • Plug and play connectivity without the need of any driver
  • Buttons require more force to engage
  • Encounter some problems mapping this keyboard to the DAW

Arturia Keystep Controller & Sequencer

A 32-key slim keyboard with a lot of features, the Arturia KeyStep is something you can rely on with your music craze. It comes with polyphonic step sequencing, pitch and mod strips, chord and arpeggiator modes, and so much more.

You can also take advantage of the ‘Chord Play’ function which allows you to play a chord and trigger it with any single key across the keyboard.

The arpeggiator provides arrangement to complex notes. The onboard polyphonic 64-step sequencer is quite an amazing performance tool. This controller plus sequencer equipment gives you various connectivity options including MIDI, CV/Gate, DIN Sync, and Sync.

  • Keys are wonderful
  • Solid-feeling and all parts are well-built
  • Amazing features at a very affordable price
  • Pitch and mode strips are harder to manipulate than the wheels or joystick
  • Need to connect to a computer to set the length of the sequencer
  • Sometimes velocity isn’t accurate

Novation Launchkey 25 USB Keyboard

Novation Launchkey 25 USB Keyboard is primarily designed for Ableton Live, but still compatible with other software with its ‘In Control’ function. It has a 25-key synth-style keyboard, 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, eight knobs, nine faders, navigation and control buttons.

These pads are laid in two rows of eight — the first row to launch clips and the second row to stop them — matching Ableton Live session view.

Designed to help you shape your beats, however you like, it has eight reliable rotary knobs make tweaking of the effects and instruments easier.

Lightweight, very easy to play with keys and pads that are velocity-sensitive for more expressive performances. It’s USB-powered, so you won’t need any power cable or driver to use it. Start making music with everything you need onboard.

  • Very light and portable
  • Keys are quite good
  • Knobs and sliders are great
  • Automapping is amazing
  • The build is quite poor
  • You can feel plastic on the frame
  • Pads may seem unresponsive at times
  • Need force to trigger
  • Velocity curve is inconsistent

M-Audio, 32-Key(Keystation Mini 32)

Keep up with the world’s high demand for making music through mobile and computer-based recordings with the M-Audio 32 Keys Keystation Mini 32 . It’s a simple, yet powerful MIDI controller that is designed for portable music production, sequencing music and more.

Featuring 32 velocity-sensitive with synth-action keys, pitch-bend, sustain and modulation wheels, along with the buttons and controls on-board, you can really expand your playing capability in a very expressive way.

It’s USB-powered, class-compliant and has USB-MIDI connectivity for easier setup and integration for Mac or Windows PC. You can also connect it to your iOS devices via the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit, which you need to acquire separately.

Bundled with AIR Music Technology’s Ignite software with more than 275 instrument sounds onboard and the Ableton Live Lite, surely you have something worthwhile to do while you’re stuck in the traffic or waiting for a delayed flight.

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Perfect for small studio
  • Plug-and-play connectivity
  • Can easily connect even to phones
  • Sturdy construction
  • Awesome velocity curves feature
  • Better with arpeggiator
  • Better if it comes with micro USB which is used in most Android-based phones
  • Keys are a bit stiff
  • Especially the black ones

Xkey AIR 25 Key Bluetooth MIDI Controller

Don’t want to have dangles when making music on-the-fly? Well, you can do it now with CME Xkey 25 Note Gun Metal Gray that has both Bluetooth and USB connectivity.

It has 25 keys giving you enough playability, yet still have those features from the original Xkey. Even if you connect it wirelessly, it can survive up to 10 hours of battery life.

Adjusting most settings of the Xkey like the sensitivity, timing, and velocity requires you to download the Xkey Plus app on your phone or computer. The key layout follows the traditional piano’s octave range, so you won’t have a hard time adjusting since it’s already in your finger memories.

Keys and buttons have customized pressure sensor underneath that’s connected to an intelligent circuit board. This circuit board will produce details of your performance at lower power consumption. So, you can survive long hours of usage even without charging the controller.

  • Great portability without compromise
  • Excellent keyboard
  • Very easy to set up
  • Micro-USB connection is weak
  • Keyboard freezes sometimes
  • Needs unplug and plug again

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

Make great music from a smart and streamlined keyboard like Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 . You get to enjoy this compact 25 semi-weighted keys with 8 touch-sensitive control knobs, OLED display and some onboard instruments and effects. It’s packed with Maschine Essentials, Monark and more.

Express yourself through your performance with his best-in-class keyboard which you can connect to your computer or laptop via USB. And, since it supports full integration with KOMPLETE and NKS plug-ins, as well as leading music software like Logic Pro X and Ableton Live, you know making music is more fun.

  • Sturdy and solid construction
  • Pitch and mod wheels are great
  • Good grip and resistance
  • Has great integration with other software
  • KOMPLETE Kontrol features are still lacking
  • Smaller screen than the S series
  • Less backlighting of the buttons

QuNexus Smart Sensor Keyboard Controller

Playable, portable and affordable keyboard is what most MIDI keyboards want to convey to their customers. However, there are only a few of these keyboards that live up to their word, and one of the few is QuNexus Smart Sensor Keyboard Controller .

You have full control of your analog synthesizers by using finger pressure and tilt to easily manipulate filter, pitch and more.

With USB connection and plug-and-play capability, you can connect it to Mac, Windows PC, Linux, iOS and Android devices. It’s a perfect centerpiece of your home studio or a reliable travel companion for making great music.

  • Great to play with
  • Reliable MIDI keyboard for travel and studio
  • Keys are smooth and responsive
  • Velocity sensitivity could be inconsistent
  • Some complaints about the high price
  • Given its limited features

ROLI Seaboard Block Wireless

Look no further if you are looking for the smallest, portable and award-winning travel MIDI keyboard. You just found the ROLI Seaboard Block with all the features you need (plus useful bundled software) and it’s named as the “future of the keyboard.”

It comes with 5D Touch technology, you’ll be able to touch surface strike, glide and slide controls and effects to be able to produce great solos and simple melodies.

You can access your sounds either from your mobile phone or computer with the software included (NOISE, BLOCKS Dashboard, Equator Player and MaxMSP). With its 25 keywave with two-octave playing surface and more than 100 sounds, this wireless and portable keyboard is a tool in making music on-the-go.

  • Very expressive multitouch keyboard
  • The 5D Touch technology is very powerful
  • An affordable
  • Yet great ROLI
  • Steep learning curve for this new performance paradigm
  • Some users may find the keys a bit smaller

Nektar, 88-Key (IMPACT LX88+)

Although an 88-note keyboard controller is quite big for traveling, we explained why Nektar Impact LX88+ is part of our list of the best travel MIDI keyboards in 2024.

Designed for players who prefer to have an extra reach, this keyboard has 88-note velocity-sensitive with semi-weighted action keys, pitch-bend, and mod wheels on-board, including faders, buttons, encoders, and velocity curves.

To control the MIDI hardware, you can use the built-in MIDI out and the MIDI programming options.

This MIDI keyboard currently supports DAW integration for Cubase, FL Studio, Garage Band, Logic, Nuendo, Digital Performer, and some other music software. All buttons and controls are properly labeled, so you don’t keep looking into your manual or memorize how they’re going to be assigned.

You can maximize the four velocity curves if you’re still discovering your style or use the three fixed velocities if you want a consistent output. It’s compatible with Mac, Windows PC, and iOS devices.

  • Solid construction Reliable build to carry around
  • Keys are nice and feel great
  • Comes with outstanding features
  • Especially the pads
  • Some say the keys are inconsistent
  • Knobs and faders have inconsistent friction

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST TRAVEL MIDI KEYBOARD

Music inspirations just strike whenever and wherever, so it’s wise enough to get ready and have an instrument with you when that happens. Having the best travel MIDI keyboard in 2024 is really a good thing to have with you wherever you go.

Yet, it’s hard to really have a small, portable, yet feature-packed keyboard. So, we give you tips that will somehow help you assess your needs and preferences. In this way, you’ll be able to spend your money wisely — and not wasting a single dime.

Best Travel Midi Keyboards in 2019

Your budget is the main consideration when it comes to buying anything, not just travel MIDI keyboards.

The price of the keyboards depends on a lot of factors, including the number of keys, the size, the features and more bells and whistles that will add more color and life to your music production.

The higher your budget can be, the more amazing MIDI keyboard, you get — but, this is not true for all. There are also cheaper products that are way better than expensive ones.

What we mean to say is, every other aspect mentioned here is just minor considerations because the budget is that one factor that can change everything.

Number of Keys

Commonly, travel keyboards have 25 keys. But, some players prefer 32 keys or 37 because they think the 25-key model is just too small for them.

Choosing the number of keys is dependent on your preferences and your willingness to add extra weight on your baggage as you travel.

Inputs and Outputs

This is an important consideration when choosing a compact keyboard. While most gears are equipped with a USB port, you really need to familiarize these ports carefully. Sweetwater has more explanation, especially when you want to connect the keyboard to other instruments.

Keyboard response

Choose a keyboard that you’re comfortable playing, not just carrying.

T here are a few things you might want to check out for the keys, explained The Hub . You got to consider if the keys are velocity and pressure-sensitive, weighted and have an aftertouch effect.

This YouTube video gives you more options for your travel MIDI keyboard. There’s no fuss, nor flattery words – just commentaries and a few more tips to pick the best for your music production.

OUR TOP CHOICE

You won’t be buying all these 10 MIDI keyboards, you’ll either buy one or two of the products on this list.

So, in terms of extra features, connectivity and portability, we have a tie — CME Xkey 25 Note and QuNexus Smart Sensor Keyboard Controller . Both of them allow you to make music and beats easily anytime, anywhere.

But, if we are to choose only one, we go for CME Xkey 25 Note . Why? It’s portable, versatile and flexible. You have the option to connect it via Bluetooth and it allows you to make music up to 10 hours before changing.

With the Xkey, all you need to do is start making music wherever and whenever the inspiration strikes.

Related posts:

  • The Best MIDI Keyboard for Beginners 2024 (Reviews + Guide)
  • 10 Best 61 Key MIDI Controllers 2024 — The Easiest Way to Make Music
  • 10 Best MIDI Controller Keyboards 2024
  • 10 Best MIDI Controllers For Logic Pro X in 2024

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The best portable (and affordable) USB MIDI controllers

Making music on the go doesn’t have to break the bank..

Whether you're a musician always on the go or just tight on space, there are plenty of reasons to pick up a portable MIDI controller.

I've been on the hunt for the perfect portable and affordable controller. (You don't want to lose or break something expensive while you're traveling, after all.) But honestly, there is no perfect controller. There are some very good ones out there, but none has ticked every box for me. Similarly, you'll need to figure out which one best addresses your specific needs, with the fewest trade-offs. None of these controllers rises head and shoulders above the rest to make it the clear winner. So I've laid out the strengths and weaknesses of what I think are the five best options currently on the market.

But before we get to the nitty-gritty, let's be clear about what we're looking at here. For one, we're only considering keyboard-style controllers. While pads are a bonus, we'll be ignoring pad-only controllers like the Novation Launchpad . (They're a different beast.) We're also focused on USB-MIDI controllers. My reasoning: I assume most of you are working with a computer to some extent anyway, especially while traveling. So while having other connections is nice, it's not essential. But not having USB is a dealbreaker.

Arturia KeyStep

If you've watched any synth videos on YouTube, you've most likely seen an Arturia KeyStep. We sang its praises here on Engadget. Its keyboard feels worthy of a device two or three times the price. Plus it has a built-in arpeggiator, a sequencer and more connectivity options than you could possibly imagine. Basically, if there's a piece of gear out there, the KeyStep can probably control it without the need for a middleman. It's reasonably priced too, at only $129.

But the KeyStep has a major drawback: It weighs a ton. All right, it only weighs three pounds, but that's still a lot, relatively speaking. The only other keyboard I considered including that weighs more is the much loved Arturia MiniLab , which comes in at 3.3 pounds. But frankly, it's not nearly small or light enough to carry around comfortably. The KeyStep is also the longest controller I looked at. At 19 inches it's quite hard to stuff into most backpacks. Unless you absolutely need the CV and MIDI ports and don't plan to drag it with you often, you're probably better off looking at Arturia's newest offering, the MicroLab.

Buy KeyStep on Amazon - $129

Arturia MicroLab

The MicroLab has the same keybed as the KeyStep and MiniLab -- which is to say, by far my favorite keybed of the bunch. It also weighs less than two pounds, and while it's larger than a lot of the competition at about 16.5 inches long, it still fits in most bags meant for 15-inch laptops. But what makes the MicroLab special is the thoughtful design. There's a thin rubber case around the whole thing that should help protect it against light bumps. It also doubles as a holster for the cable, which wraps securely around the keyboard so it's not floating around your bag. Oh, and that cord sits flush with the side of the controller, so you don't have to worry about it getting in the way of your other gear.

The MicroLab is pretty bare bones though. There's no sustain pedal input, no arpeggiator, no knobs, no pads or transport controls, and only USB for connectivity. But it's the cheapest keyboard on this list at $89, and it comes with a top-notch software bundle, including Arturia's Analog Lab Lite and Bitwig Studio 8-Track. If you just want to be able to play the keys wherever you go and don't need a ton of bells and whistles, the MicroLab is probably your best bet.

Buy MicroLab on Amazon - $89

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32

Native Instruments' (NI) controllers are the only ones that are even in the same league as Arturia's when it comes to the quality of the keybed. Earlier this year the company launched its most portable model yet, the Komplete Kontrol M32 . It's the most expensive of the lot at $139, but it's also the most solidly built (save for the KeyStep). It feels like something that belongs in a professional studio. The buttons have a satisfying click, and the eight touch-sensitive knobs are by far the best on any controller in this roundup. And the navigation encoder is satisfyingly clicky. If your primary concern is the quality of the keyboard but the MicroLab is too minimal for you, the M32 is worth considering.

However, there are some drawbacks. For one, like the KeyStep, it's barely portable. At 18.7 inches long and 2.3 pounds it's among the larger and heavier controllers I considered. It simply doesn't fit in my backpack, which is designed to hold a 15.6-inch laptop. It also gave me the most trouble during setup. In fact, it didn't work with my Windows 10 PC out of the box and required a firmware update. Getting the transport controls to work with Ableton also took quite a bit of troubleshooting. But it does integrate seamlessly with NI's excellent Komplete Kontrol software. In fact, basically all of Native Instrument's software is pretty great. Massive, Kontakt and Reactor are industry standards, used by countless professionals. So if you want a controller built with those tools in mind, M32 is your best bet.

Buy Komplete Kontrol M32 on Amazon - $139

Akai MPK Mini MkII

The one thing the M32 lacks, though, are pads. If those are a must-have for you, the Akai MPK Mini MkII should be near the top of your short list. It's been my controller of choice for the past several years thanks to its best-in-class pads, built-in arpeggiator and a decent selection of controls. It has eight knobs and eight pads (the latter of which are basically ripped straight from the company's beloved MPC series), a sustain pedal port, note repeat and a dedicated, customizable MIDI CC mapping mode for the pads. That last part helps make up for the fact that there are no transport controls to be found on the MPK.

The joystick is also a unique and fun way to control pitch bends and modulation effects. It's not quite as reliable as dedicated pitch and mod wheels, but it's still fun to use. The biggest drawback to the MPK, though, is build quality. While the pads are second to none, the keybed and knobs are flimsy feeling and unsatisfying. They get the job done, but you're never going to mistake it for a premium piece of music-making gear.

One quick note: Do not confuse the MPK Mini MkII with the MPK Mini Play . The Play has a speaker and built-in sounds and can be powered by AA batteries. You might think this sounds like a clear winner. But in reality it sounds like a busted Super Nintendo (and I don't mean that in a fun chiptune way). Almost all the "instruments" in the Mini Play are useless, and it sacrifices four control knobs to add an interface for browsing them. Skip it.

Buy MPK Mini mkII on Amazon - $119

Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3

If you want all the controls that the M32 and MPK Mini offer and better DAW integration, consider the Launchkey Mini Mk3 from Novation. Frankly, this is probably the controller I'll be carrying around most often from now on. But that's almost entirely down to one thing: its seamless integration with my DAW of choice, Ableton Live. In addition to being able to trigger scenes and clips, there are handy shortcuts for controlling most of Live's interface right from the Launchkey. The front panel has eight knobs, 16 pads and a robust selection of transport controls. Plus you get a decent software bundle. It even has a TRS-MIDI jack, in case you want to use it to control hardware synths. (That said, you might need a five-pin MIDI adapter to connect to older gear.)

The Launchkey has also stolen the arpeggiator crown from the MPK Mini. It offers a host of advanced controls that allow you to manipulate the rhythm and gate, plus unique features called "mutate" and "deviate" that introduce controlled bursts of randomization to tweak your pattern.

But as I warned at the top of this story, there is no perfect controller. The Launchkey feels slightly more sturdy than the MPK, but not much. Its keyboard is the least satisfying to play. And while its knobs have a pleasing amount of resistance, they're awkwardly small. Plus, the pads here are much better suited to triggering clips in Ableton than finger drumming.

Buy Launchkey Mini on Amazon - $110

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MIDINation

Lightweight Champs: The Best Portable MIDI Keyboard 2024

Last Updated on January 1, 2024

Midi Nation is supported by our great readers. We might get a commission if you buy gear through a link on this page [at no additional cost to you].

A keyboard doesn't have to be large and imposing to be good – as our picks for the ‘best portable MIDI keyboard' category shows. This guide will help you buy the tiniest, lightest, most portable MIDI keyboards to make music wherever, whenever. Use these in your dorm, your study room, the park, or even a cafe – they're lightweight, and small enough to fit into any backpack.

MIDI keyboards, by default, are among the lightest musical gear on the market (barring your ukuleles and harmonicas, of course). The lack of internal sound systems means that MIDI keyboards have little to no “entrails”. Where you will be hard pressed to find a digital piano that weighs less than 20 lbs, under 5 lbs is the norm for MIDI keyboards.

Which is a roundabout way of saying that nearly all MIDI keyboards are “portable” to some extent.

Of course, some keyboards are more portable than others. They either offer low weight or small dimensions that makes them easy to carry around. If you want to carry your keyboard to a live gig, jamming sessions, or even to the local park to play some tunes on a weekend picnic, this portability is a massive advantage.

What exactly should you look for in a portable MIDI keyboard? What should be the bare minimum considerations when it comes to size, weight, and features? And what sort of price range, brands, and integrations should you consider?

Find the right answers and more in our guide to the best portable MIDI keyboard you can buy.

travel controller midi

About your reviewer Ryan Harrell is the founder of MIDINation and an experienced producer/DJ. His first experience with electronic music production dates back to Cubase 3.0 in the summer of 1997, and he's been a fan ever since. He prefers Ableton as his primary DAW these days, though he is still partial to Cubase and Pro Tools. He lives in San Diego and freelances as a producer and part-time DJ.

Overview: The Best Portable MIDI Keyboards

MIDI keyboards are just an interface to help you control your DAW. They lack the internals necessary to produce sound on their own (unlike digital pianos or synthesizers).

In other words, a MIDI keyboard is just a shell to control your software. In principle, they aren't any different from a computer keyboard or mouse – simple equipment meant to help you control something more complex, such as an operating system, a DAW, or an analog/digital synthesizer.

This lack of internal features makes all MIDI keyboards “portable” to some degree. Even if they are large and unwieldy – such as any 88-key keyboard – they are almost always substantially lighter than similar-sized digital pianos or synthesizers.

Case in point: the ever popular Yamaha DGX-660 is nearly 50 lbs . You'll be hard pressed to find any MIDI instrument that comes anywhere close.

Full size digital pianos can be prohibitively expensive

Of course, portability is much more than just weight; it's also a function of size, shape, and onboard features. I'll discuss each of these features in the next section and help you understand how to choose the right gear for your needs.

What Features to Look for in Portable Keyboards?

There is a laundry list of features to look for in any MIDI keyboard. I've covered this extensively in our guide to MIDI keyboards . From the number (and quality) of pads to integrations and control options, a lot goes into making a great MIDI keyboard.

But with portable keyboards, your priorities are different. You of course need a good keyboard and lots of control options, but your top priority is  portability – that is, low size, low weight, and features designed for easier use on the go.

Given the focus on portability, here are some of the top features you need to look for in any MIDI keyboard:

Number of keys

25, 37, 49, 61, 88 – MIDI keyboards are usually sold in configurations of 2 to 7 octaves. The bare minimum is 2 octaves, i.e. 25 keys. The largest you can get (or “full-size”) is 88 keys, which is the same as a traditional piano and gives you 7 octaves of range.

This image shows the relative size of different MIDI keyboards

If your focus is on portability, you can't really get a full-size keyboard, of course. An 88-key keyboard is just way too large to carry around anywhere. Even a small, portability-focused 88-key keyboard such as the Roland FP-30 is nearly 5′ long. That's wider than most desks. You're not going to be able to drop it into a backpack and take it easily to gigs.

So for the most part, buying the best portable MIDI keyboard means that you restrict yourself 25 or 37 keys. This gives you 2-3 octaves of range which, for most producers, is enough to create music.

I  personally recommend  getting a 25-key keyboard. This gives you 2 octaves of range which is enough to access bass, mids, or highs. At 25 keys, you can make the keyboard as small as possible while still being usable. 37-keys is in a weird 3-octaves range that is neither large enough (like 61-keys) nor small and portable enough.

Size and shape

Size, of course, is a big feature of portability. It's hard to carry around a keyboard that's longer than 2′. I generally recommend getting the smallest size that's still usable, but that's not a very useful guide.

A better visual guide is to think of your backpack and buy a keyboard that could – at least vertically – fit inside it.

A standard laptop backpack is between 16-20″ in height. This fits within the average length for most portable MIDI keyboards with 25 keys. Provided the keyboard is narrow enough, you could, technically, fit it inside your laptop (of course, I recommend buying a keyboard case and using that instead).

Look for keyboards that can fit inside a standard laptop backpack

A more important – and often overlooked – consideration is the keyboard's  shape  or form factor. The standard key-only layout means that your keyboard is going to be long and narrow. Add some control options to it and it will add to the keyboard's height.

Now height affects not just portability, but how and where you can use the keyboard. If the keyboard is overly tall, you'll have difficulty fitting a laptop/monitor on top of it. You'll need a deep desk that's at least 3′ deep to use both your laptop and keyboard next to each other. If you're in a small studio, this might not be possible.

This picture shows a workstation with a laptop and MIDI keyboard next to each other

A good  rule of thumb  is to pick a keyboard that's roughly the same size as a laptop. The ever-popular Akai MPK Mini, for instance, has the same rectangular shape as any 13″ laptop. Not only does this make carrying the keyboard around easier, it also means that you don't have to buy a dedicated bag for it – you can just drop it into your laptop bag.

Akai Mini Play has the same dimensions as a laptop

I don't have to tell you that weight is important as far as portability goes. The heavier the keyboard, the harder it is to carry.

Fortunately, MIDI keyboards, as a product category, are already lightweight enough. You won't find a lot of keyboards that are over 10 lbs, even for large 61 key keyboards . In fact, a vast majority will be under 3 lbs.

In fact, 3 lbs is a good threshold for any portable MIDI keyboard. That's roughly the same weight as a Macbook Air. Some portability-focused keyboards, such as the Akai LPK25, weigh even lower – around 1 lbs, which is the same as an iPad.

I usually recommend that your weight threshold should be the same as the system you're going to use with it. That is:

  • If you're going to use a Macbook Pro, keep 3-4 lbs as your weight threshold
  • If you're going to use an iPad, keep 1-2 lbs as your weight threshold

Altogether, you can put together a competent iPad/Macbook + MIDI keyboard setup for under 5 lbs. That's nothing short of remarkable.

If you've ever looked at the market for portable MIDI keyboards, you might have noticed that most keyboards either offer  mini  or  full-size keys.

This is nothing but a descriptor of the length of the keys ( not  their width). Mini keys are shorter, full-size keys are the same size as a standard piano's. The iRig is a great example of the difference (mini keys to the left, full-size to the right):

Full-size keys are longer than mini keys

Another you might have heard for keys is their width. Keyboard keys are frequently described as  slim  or  narrow . As you might expect, these keys are thinner, which reduces the overall size of the keyboard.

Obviously, you want smaller keys if you're looking for the best portable MIDI keyboard . But there is an argument to be made in favor of full-size keys, especially if you're someone who plays the piano. Larger, longer keys are simply more comfortable to play. You're also less likely to make mistakes on them.

Instead of choosing the smallest, narrowest keys by default, evaluate how you will use the keyboard and make a decision. Keep the following in mind:

  • Choose narrow, mini keys  if you need the keyboard just to enter some notes and you'll be using it primarily as a DAW controller. In such a case, keyboard size and portability are obviously more important considerations than playability.
  • Choose full-size keys if you need the keyboard to play complex melodies. This is particularly true for keyboards that don't have any pads, knobs, or other control options. If you want it primarily to play the piano, it doesn't make sense to constrain your performance by using smaller keys.

Other considerations

While the above are important factors in deciding which portable MIDI keyboard to buy, you should also consider the following:

  • Built-in sounds: MIDI keyboards are not digital pianos or synthesizers; they don't have speakers or the capability to create sound on their own. You have to plug them into a DAW + speakers to get sound output. However, a few MIDI keyboards, such as the Akai MPK Mini Play, have small libraries of built-in sounds and small speakers. This is mostly to help you jam out simple melodies when you get an idea. While not necessary (this is about  MIDI keyboards , after all, not synthesizers), this can be a handy feature.
  • Build quality:  If you're going to carry the keyboard around, you obviously want it to be sturdy enough. However, pick something too sturdy and you'll add to the weight, affecting portability. While I don't recommend it for higher end gear, plastic chassis can actually offer decent trade-off between portability and build quality.
  • Thickness:  Thickness isn't as important a consideration as overall size and weight but it should definitely be on your radar. Thinner keyboards are more portable but also have lesser key travel. This can affect playability. I don't recommend going for anything under 1.5″ as that won't give you enough depth for comfortable playing. Ideally, your MIDI keyboard should be as thick as 2-3 of your laptops stacked on top of each other. The Akai MPK Mini, for instance, is 1.8″ thick – approximately the same as 3 Macbook Airs.

Of course, you should keep the normal things about MIDI keyboards in mind as well – integration with your DAW, quality of keys (semi-weighted is best, synth-action is fine), features such as Aftertouch, control options (knobs, pads, sliders, etc.), and quality of pads.

But if you're in the market for the best portable MIDI keyboard, the above should be your top purchase factors.

To Wireless or Not to Wireless?

Before we look at the best portable MIDI keyboards in more detail, I want to answer a question so many of you have asked of me over email:

Should you buy a wireless MIDI keyboard?

As tempted as I am to take a diplomatic “it depends” stance, I will go out on a limb and say that you  shouldn't  buy a wireless MIDI keyboard.

Three reasons why:

  • Latency: Despite advancements in Bluetooth, wireless keyboards still underperform wired keyboards in terms of latency. For the same hardware, a wireless variant will underperform its wired counterpart by 2-4x. Even if you get the latency down to the point where its not immediately noticeable (under 30ms), it will still be below a wired keyboard.
  • Battery:  A wireless keyboard comes with yet another issue you have to deal with: battery life. Most wireless keyboards tap out at about 8-10 hours of battery life. For me, that's about 2-3 jamming sessions. While it's not a huge problem, keeping the keyboard charged is one more thing you have to worry about. And I'd rather just focus on making music than making sure that my keyboard is charged.
  • Price:  Wireless MIDI keyboards are almost always 1.5-2x pricier than their wired counterparts. I don't know about you, but I don't hate USB cables enough to spend an extra $100 to get rid of them for a slower keyboard.

Moreover, there aren't a lot of great MIDI keyboard options on the market right now. And let's not forget that if you get rid of the USB cable, you will still have to carry around the charging cable. Essentially, you're replacing one cable with another.

All of this makes me reluctant to recommend wireless MIDI keyboards wholeheartedly. The technology is just not mature enough yet. Maybe in three years they'll get the latency down to 10ms and the battery life up to 20 hours. But until then, stick to your boring standard wired MIDI keyboards.

With this out of the way, let's look at our top picks for the best portable MIDI keyboards in more detail below.

The Best MIDI Portable Keyboard

Of the hundreds of MIDI keyboards available on the market at the moment, the following are my most recommended portable options. I've shown the length and height of each keyboard in the product image below so you get a better idea of their size/shape.

Here's my list in detail below:

Best Overall: Akai Professional MPK Mini Play

Akai Pro Mini MK2 is the best portable MIDI keyboard right now

Key features:

  • 25 synth-action velocity responsive mini keys
  • 8 large pads
  • OLED info display
  • 128 built-in sounds
  • Built-in speaker
  • Thumbstick for pitch/mod controls

In design, features, build quality, and control options, the Akai MPK Mini Play is exactly the same as the Akai MPK Mini (which ranks as our top 25-key MIDI controller ). Akai doesn't have much reason to change things – the MPK Mini is the bestselling mini MIDI keyboard by a large margin.

What separates the MPK Mini Play from the Mini MK2 are two things:

  • 128 built in sounds
  • A tiny speaker built-in

This essentially transforms the Mini Play into a standalone audio device, and not just another controller. As far as portability goes, this is a game changer. You don't have to connect it to a DAW or a computer; you can whip it out and start jamming out ideas right away.

Bear in mind that the Mini Play isn't a synthesizer or a digital piano. You can't create new sounds from it. Nor are the speakers or the built-in sounds anything remotely similar to what, say, a Yamaha digital piano can offer. You're not going to compose symphonies with it.

But you can use the Mini Play to translate ideas into actual melodies. It's also great for practicing your keyboard skills and scales, especially with the handy headphone jack.

To make the keyboard more portable, the Mini Play is powered by 3 x AAA batteries. Normally, I prefer rechargeable power but in this case, the AAA batteries work perfectly. You will use the Mini Play predominantly on your desktop anyway. The few times that you do take it with you on the go, the AAA battery power works great.

Besides this, you get the standard MPK Mini control options. The pads are large and comfortable to use. The knobs have the right amount of tightness. And the keys, while not being stellar, are usable enough. The size and shape are roughly the same as a 13″ laptop and the entire unit weighs barely over 2 lbs.

If there is anything I could change, it would be the quality of the speakers. The tiny speaker sounds very tinny and can be hard to hear in open or crowded spaces.

Another negative is the thumbstick and its placement. As I've mentioned earlier, I'm not a big fan of the four way thumbstick vs the conventional pitch/mod wheels. The placement in the upper left corner can also be hard to access if you're playing the lower notes.

But these are minor quibbles. As far as the overall performance and portability goes, the Akai MPK Mini Play is easily an astonishingly light, small, and portable MIDI keyboard.

Recommended for: Anyone who wants an affordable, lightweight keyboard with onboard sounds for making music on the go. The small size, built-in sounds and AAA battery power make this one of the most portable keyboards on this list.

  • Built-in speakers and sounds turn this into a complete standalone keyboard
  • Proven Akai pads and control options
  • Portability-focused shape, size and weight
  • Integration with some lesser known DAWs can be iffy
  • Onboard speaker is very weak
  • Thumbstick is a poor replacement for standard pitch/mod wheels

Best Mid-Range Keyboard: Alesis VI25

Alesis VI25 is the best portable MIDI keyboard for mid-range buyers

  • 25-full sized keys
  • Keys are semi-weighted
  • 16 backlit pads
  • 8 knobs and 24 buttons
  • DAW controls and LCD info screen

Want a portable keyboard but need something that's more capable than an Akai MPK Mini? Willing to compromise on portability in favor of better features?

Then the Alesis VI25 might be for you.

The elder sibling of the Alesis V25 eschews portability in favor of better performance. You get a far better keyboard, more pads, more control options, and better integration. In exchange, you have to make do with slightly larger dimensions and heavier weight.

Let's focus on the positives first:

  • Semi-weighted keys which mimic the action of acoustic pianos and are way more fun to use then synth-action keys found on most cheaper keyboards
  • 16 large, responsive pads feel great and integrate seamlessly with most DAWs. Innovative features such as the “roll” function (which triggers a pad automatically at fixed intervals based on current tempo) enhance the usability even further.
  • Lots of control options including 8 knobs (with 1 sound bank for a total of 16 knobs) and 24 buttons. You can trigger virtually anything you want right from the keyboard – no need to look at the screen.
  • Built-in DAW controls  make it possible to record, play, and transport the track right from the keyboard without using the mouse.

In terms of performance, the Alesis VI25 is as competitive as the higher priced Akai MPK2xx series. To this author at least, the VI25 also looks better.

There are some downsides as well, of course. The biggest one is the square front keys. While not a dealbreaker, the square keys dig into your wrists and can make extended use uncomfortable.

The biggest negative is the size and weight. At nearly 25″ in length, this is one of the largest keyboards on this list. The 6+ lbs of weight doesn't help the portability either.

If you're willing to compromise on the portability, however, the Alesis VI25 offers fantastic performance wrapped in an affordable, beautiful bundle.

Recommended for:  Intermediate users who want better quality keyboards and more control options. Get this if portability is a second priority for you.

  • Semi-weighted keys play way better than synth-action keys
  • Tons of control options – 16 pads, 24 buttons, 16 knobs
  • Affordably priced
  • Heavy and unwieldy dimensions; not very portable
  • Square front keys dig into wrists

Best for Professionals: Akai Professional MPK225

Akai Pro MPK225 is the best portable MIDI keyboard for performance-focused buyers

  • 25 semi-weighted, full-sized keys
  • 8 backlit pads with 4 assignable sound banks
  • 8 control knobs with 3 banks
  • 4 switches/buttons with 3 banks
  • Detailed LCD info display
  • 4 way navigational buttons for LCD screen

The Akai MPK2xx series has been a favorite of mine - and countless other professionals - for years. The combination of better quality keys, pads, and tons of control options makes this ideal for serious players who want proven performance.

As the smallest of the MPK2xx line, the MPK225 ranks as our best portable MIDI keyboard for professionals. It offers everything serious musicians would want and it comes at a price tag that isn't absurdly expensive.

Talking about the positives, here's what you'll particularly enjoy about the MPK225:

  • Semi-weighted keys are much more responsive than synth-action keys
  • MPC-like pads are a delight to use
  • Tons of control options via assignable banks
  • Info-rich LCD screen paired with 4-way navigational buttons means you can use the keyboard without using the mouse
  • Stellar build quality with a sturdy aluminum chassis and tactile keys/control knobs

If you're a professional, these features should be a bare minimum. You can't show up to a gig with a keyboard that doesn't work or has broken pads.

Now for the negatives, the biggest one of which is the size and shape.

The MPK225 is  not  a light keyboard. The entire unit weighs nearly 7 lbs. While its dimensions aren't huge - it's under 20" long - it is considerably thick at nearly 4" in thickness. This can make the keyboard difficult to carry around to casual jamming sessions. I know a lot of musicians who just opt for a cheaper keyboard if they have to go to a friend's place than carry this little beast everywhere.

Apart from the portability (which is a big factor given that this article is titled the best  portable  MIDI keyboard ), there is little to fault the MPK225. Maybe the price could have been a little lower. Maybe the pads could have been a little looser for beginners. But for serious musicians, this remains the gold standard as far as mini MIDI keyboards go.

Recommended for:  Serious producers who need a reliable, powerful and proven MIDI keyboard for live gigs. Buy it if you care more about performance than portability and price isn't a concern for you.

  • Stellar semi-weighted keys are a delight to use
  • Lots and lots of control options
  • Touring-friendly build quality
  • 8 pads are too few; 16 would have been better
  • Heavy and thick; portability is a secondary consideration

Lightest: IK Multimedia iRig Keys Mini 25

iRig Mini is a tiny portable keyboard with 2 octaves of range

  • 25 mini keys
  • Assignable octave up/down buttons
  • Ultraportable dimensions and weight

IK Multimedia's iRig Mini is an ultraportable keyboard that also ranks as one of the lightest and smallest keyboards in the world. This thing is so ridiculously light that you sometimes forget that you're even carrying it.

So while the iRig Mini might not score much on the features or performance scale, it scores a 10/10 in portability.

Let's step back and look at this keyboard in more detail.

You don't get much in terms of control options or features. There are 25 mini keys, assignable octave up/down and volume buttons, and that's about it. Connectivity is via USB. The keyboard also ships with lightning and microUSB cables so you can hook it up to your iPad.

What sets the iRig apart from the competitors is its size and weight. At just 0.9 lbs, this thing weighs less than an iPad Air. The size is tiny - it's just 12.2" in length, which is less than the 2017 Macbook Air.

I used this keyboard with an iPad and it was so light that I didn't even notice it in my backpack. The combined weight of my production "setup" was under 2.5 lbs, which, when you think about it, is absurdly low.

Extreme portability comes with its cons, of course. The keys are clicky and feel spongy at the bottom of the key travel. It's not the most fun to play keyboard on the market. There are no control options either; you just get a keyboard and that's it.

But if you're after performance, this isn't the keyboard for you. It's portability first and everything else a distant second.

Recommended for: Anyone who wants an extremely portable keyboard and is comfortable with sub par performance. Great for travelers or people who make music on the iPad.

  • Extremely portable – weighs just about 450g
  • Tiny dimensions are smaller than a Macbook Air
  • Low quality, spongy keys
  • No control options

Most Affordable: midiplus AKM230

midiplus AKM320 is one of the smallest portable MIDI keyboards around

  • 32 synth-action keys
  • Dedicated pitch and modulation wheels
  • Dedicated octave up/down buttons

Clunky keys that become loose after extended use. No control options. Loose pitch/mod wheels.

This doesn't sound like the resume of one of the best portable MIDI keyboard you can buy.

Yet, the midiplus AKM320 consistently finds a spot in our guides on account of a single thing: price.

The AKM320 is one of the cheapest MIDI keyboards on the planet. How midiplus managed to get the price to this level is beyond me; it shouldn't be possible to offer users 2.5 octaves of range  and  dedicated pitch/mod wheels for this low a price tag.

Somehow, midiplus manages to do both.

The lack of features also means that you get exceptionally low weight and size. The entire unit weighs just about 1.5 lbs and is barely 18" long and 5" wide. You can throw this into a backpack and take it wherever you want.

Sure, there's a laundry list of complaints. The keys tend to get loose over time and are audibly clicky. The volume control is loose and slides back by itself sometimes. The pitch/mod wheels have none of the rubbery tightness found in better keyboards.

But all of these complaints are made redundant by the tiny price tag and portability-friendly dimensions. There might be cheaper keyboards on the market, but they're not from a decently respected manufacturer like midiplus.

Recommended for: Buyers who are on a tiny budget and need a keyboard for casual use they can carry around. Get this if you prioritize cost and portability over performance and features.

  • 2.5 octaves of key range
  • Extremely low weight and portability-friendly dimensions
  • Low quality keys
  • Poor build quality
  • No features to speak of

Smallest (and Most Versatile): ROLI Seaboard Block

Roli Seaboard Block is a tiny keyboard with a ton of versatility

  • 24 "key waves"
  • 5D touch technology
  • Wireless performance
  • Powerful production software included

Is it a keyboard? Is it a drum machine? Or is it a MIDI strings controller?

In truth, the ROLI Seaboard Block is all of the above, and so much more.

To call this a "MIDI keyboard" would be to grossly undersell it. ROLI's Seaboard series is literally a paradigm shift in keyboard technology.

Take the "key waves" as a start. The 24 waves roughly correspond to the piano keys you find in conventional keyboards. However, while conventional keys have to be pressed to play, ROLI's key waves offer a whole range of motion. You can press them, slide your fingers down or across them to create a glide effect, or tap/release them to vary the velocity of the sound.

This "5D touch" is a groundbreaking innovation and opens up a whole new range of playing experiences. The black keyboard top is soft and squishy, like a rubberised skin. Press a note, drag a finger to the bottom or top of the keyboard, and you can slide up/down notes - something you can't do with regular keyboards (and which works great for guitar).

The squishy key waves also means that the ROLI Seaboard easily doubles up as a drum pad. Load up your clips and tap any key to use them ad pads, not keys. This turns the Seaboard into a far more versatile production tool than anything else on the market.

Since we're looking for the best portable MIDI keyboard, I have to mention these three features as well:

  • The Seaboard is  wireless and connects via Bluetooth
  • At just 11" long and 1" thick, this is one of the smallest keyboards you can buy
  • ROLI's mobile apps give you access to a large library of sounds that you can play wirelessly

All of these combine to make the Seaboard one of the most portable keyboards you can buy right now.

That's not all. The Seaboard Block is actually just one part of a series of modular wireless controllers from ROLI. You can connect multiple Blocks together to expand the key count. Or you can connect it to the Lightpad Block M to tap out beats and draw melodies on the fly. Throw in any one of the three Control Blocks to get immediate access to production/performance/expression controls.

It's one of the most innovative products in the music industry at the moment and if you have the money for it, I can't recommend it enough.

Recommended for: Musicians who want a powerful, innovative keyboard that makes a whole range of expression options available to them. It's pricey, but it is also tiny, powerful and extremely fun to use.

  • Wildly innovative “key waves” with 5D touch technology
  • Allows for a range of expression options
  • Wireless, light weight and tiny in size – great for portability
  • Need to attach additional control blocks to unleash full capabilities

Final Words

This brings our guide to buying the best portable MIDI keyboard. You can pick any of the options on this list based on your priorities and not be disappointed.

Just to recap, here's the complete list  again:

  • Akai MPK Mini Play (best overall)
  • Alesis VI25 (best mid-range)
  • Akai MPK225 (best professional)
  • iRig Keys Mini 25 ( ligh t est )
  • midiplus AKM320 (most affordable)
  • ROLI Seaboard block (smallest)

Questions, suggestions, or doubts? Send us an email !

Experts referenced for this article:

The following writers, DJs, producers, and audio engineers contributed their suggestions for this post:

travel controller midi

Producer Hive

7 Best MIDI Keyboards For Music Production & Performance

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  • September 18, 2023
  • A good MIDI keyboard controller is the centerpiece of your workflow
  • In this guide, we’ve handpicked the finest MIDI Keyboards on the market
  • Our top picks include Akai, Roland, Novation, Osmose, and others
  • Also, check out our article on the best 61-key MIDI keyboards for all budgets

A good keyboard controller is crucial to every workflow, making it doubly important to identify the perfect device for your needs and within your budget. But regarding needs, user preferences are individual, so the “best” MIDI keyboards often mean different things to different people.

Luckily, everyone can agree the device should have a sterling reputation, first-rate componentry, notable functionality, and class-leading responsiveness.

Who wants to put up with dubious pots, rickety faders, and random phantom messages that make you swear more than usual? Been there, done that; time to move upstream!

This pro guide points to the top keyboard controllers for various composing, recording, and performing applications. From portable gubbins to 88-note behemoths and deep DAW use devices, we’ve collated the best MIDI keyboards on the market alongside helpful buying advice.

It was a hard-fought task, but after scouring the web, gathering intel from veteran music producers, and doing our fair share of reviewing, we’re pretty pleased with the final results.

So, here are our favorite keyboard controllers for all music production abilities and applications. 

Best MIDI Keyboards of 2023 – Our Top Picks

Another year has passed, and we still think the Akai MPK Mini is the best mini MIDI keyboard on the market – by streets.

At the other end of the spectrum, the Roland A88MKII is our favorite MIDI controller keyboard for pianists, studio environments, and film scoring , thanks to its class-leading hammer-action keys and workhorse features/functionality at a competitive price. 

We’ve also been GAS-ing over the Osmose 49-key MPE MIDI keyboard ‘s slick looks, synthesis architecture, and three-dimensional control. Now it’s your turn to do the same. 

Lastly, the Novation 61SL MKIII is one of the best MIDI keyboards for hardware control thanks to the ingenious auto-mapping control mapping, twinkly lights, continuous rotary encoders, efficient LCD menus, and a plethora of connectivity options around the back.

Here are the seven contenders for the best MIDI keyboards on the market:

  • AKAI Professional MPK MKIII Mini MIDI Keyboard (Best for Travel)
  • Roland A-88 MKII 88-key Keyboard Controller (Best for Film Scoring)
  • Osmose 49-Key MPE MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer (Best for Performance)
  • Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller (Best Value)
  • Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller 
  • Novation 61SL MK3 MIDI Keyboard (Best for Ableton)
  • Nektar Panorama P6 61-key MIDI Keyboard (Best Controller Surface)

1. AKAI Professional MPK MKIII Mini MIDI Keyboard  (Best for Travel)

AKAI Professional MPK MKIII Mini MIDI Keyboard

The Akai Professional MPK Mini Play3 keyboard controller sets a new standard for portable music production controllers. Featuring a dynamic keybed with 25 synth-action mini keys, eight MPC pads (complete with Note Repeat), four assignable control knobs to control eight parameters, and a 4-way thumbstick for pitch/modulation, the MPK Mini Play3 offers comprehensive control.

  • Responsive MPC pads + Beats software
  • 8 endless encoders are a big plus
  • Excellent value for money

“The best mini MIDI keyboard for nomadic producers and backpacking musicians.”

The AKAI MPK Mini is the world’s best-selling portable keyboard controller , popular amongst raw recruits, travelers, and bedroom producers. We touted it as the best budget midi keyboard controller last year, and we still don’t see any serious contender to dethrone it.

If anything, the MPK Mini has tightened its iron grip on the best mini MIDI keyboard segment by launching a Fruity Edition and a 37-key version. But let’s clear up one thing – this portable gubbins works for all skill levels, NOT just beginners .

Key Features:

  • Compact MIDI keyboard controller
  • Available in 25-, 37-key versions w/ MPC Beats software
  • 8 MPC-style pads and 8 ‘endless’ encoder knobs
  • Note Repeat, Built-in Arpeggiator, OLED display, pitch/mod joystick
  • USB bus powered, 1 pedal input
  • Requirements: Windows 7 SP1 and MacOS 10.8.5 or later

We’ve evaluated the Akai MPK Mini in two other ‘best of’ articles and wrote a full-length product review. It proves two things: a) we think it’s one of the finest MIDI controllers to create music on the go , and b) there is little to add today without sounding redundant.

Still, for a brief low-down, the MIDI controller keyboard scores top marks for features, functionality, and price. The best bits are the clean aesthetic, intuitive programming, smooth DAW integration, and revamped hardware of the latest version . The current avatar has notable improvements, like infinity pots, an OLED screen, and a Gen-2 keybed.

To make a long story short, the Akai MPK Mini MKII is a high-value workhorse that doesn’t sacrifice performance for portability. We’d also push you to buy a shielding cover to protect the slightly delicate controls while you travel. It’ll definitely prolong the lifespan of your device.

  • Its compact size makes it the best portable MIDI keyboard
  • Joystick (not wheels) for pitch bend modulation

Best Alternatives:

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is also a serious contender for the best mini MIDI keyboard, especially for Abelton enthusiasts. We’ve featured a wide array of similar backpack beauts in our article on the best portable MIDI keyboards , so check that out to find the best fit for your needs.

2. Roland A-88 MKII 88-key Keyboard Controller (Best for Film Scoring)

Roland A-88MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Roland A-88 MKII brings the superior responsiveness of Roland’s PHA-4 keybed to the world of keyboard MIDI controllers. On top of its incredible piano-like feel, the A-88 MKII provides many assignable knobs, pads, and program controls, to give you access to all of the functionality of your favorite virtual instruments and analog noisemakers. 

  • Compact design for the size
  • Well-designed controller panel
  • Excellent features and connectivity

 “The best weighted MIDI Keyboard is best for studios, film composers, and performers.”

The Roland A88MKII is a solid upgrade if you’ve outgrown cheapo 88-note MIDI keyboards and are ready to commit to excellence. It conforms to the manufacturer’s claims, green ticks all our boxes, and has hyperbolic reviews from the press and players.

So, as far as we’re concerned, you can order this MIDI Keyboard with the highest degree of buyer confidence.

  • Ivory-feel PHA4 Standard action keys with 3-sensor detection
  • 8 RGB-lit knobs, pads, and three pedal inputs
  • 3 zones, onboard arp, and chord memory
  • Accompanying app for customization and instant recall
  • Ships with USB C-to-C and C-to-A cables; MIDI 2.0 ready

The Roland A-88MKII fuses the time-tested tidbits of its predecessor with welcome controller features and a universal feel. We’re talking RGB-lit controls, USB-C connectivity, and MIDI 2.0 support. Combine these with the robust build, and you have a future-proof master controller.

The MIDI controller has three user-definable zones to split or layer sounds and instruments. Program Change, CC (for latching), and Note mode prompt the pads to respond to tactile pressure. The back panel has sustain + two assignable pedal inputs for expressive control.

Other notable features include chord memory, an advanced arpeggiator, and a custom control app for macOS and Windows . The app allows custom setups wherein you can assign commands, color code pads, and control external hardware. It does, however, have.

Roland has packed many features into the modest controller panel, including two assignable control change buttons, Transpose + Octave selectors, and more. The 88-key MIDI keyboard is arguably heavy but still more portable and compact than its rivals.

Overall, the A88MKII is a pricey but feature-rich and future-proof candidate. Some users have qualms with the section layout, but it’s too subjective to call a downside.

However, it doesn’t have continuous encoder knobs, and there’s a pitch/mod lever instead of wheels if that’s a snag for you.

  • Best-in-class hammer action keys + escapement
  • You’ll get a lever for pitch bend modulation

In a parallel universe, the Doepfer LMK4+ would be our go-to choice for the best MIDI controller keyboard for film scoring. StudioLogic SL 990 and NI Kontrol S61 (reviewed below) are other popular choices for a master keyboard for film composing.

P.S. – Put those pedal inputs to great use with these 5 Best MIDI foot controllers of 2023 .

3. Osmose 49-Key MPE MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer (Best for Performance)

Osmose 49-Key MPE MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer

Osmose is a 49-key synthesizer whose highly versatile sound engine is fueled by the powerful EaganMatrix, a digital modular engine developed by Haken Audio. Over 500 diverse presets, dazzling onboard FX, and deep editing features barely scratch the surface.

  • 500+ presets
  • Minimalistic aesthetics
  • Spontaneous polyphonic sound control

The Osmose keyboard synth features MIDI controls double up for MPE use with other devices or DAWs. This innovative reframing of the instrument brings about pressure glides, strumming or bowing notes, and triggering sounds by releasing keys.

At the same time, the MIDI controller retains the features like global pitch/mod sliders and pedal inputs for expression and control . We barely scratch the surface of its capabilities, but there’re 500 presets, onboard FX, and killer deep editing features.

  • 49-key MPE MIDI keyboard polyphonic synthesizer
  • 3D aftertouch and digital modular sound engine,
  • 500+ presets + Mac/PC software editor
  • FX, DIN MIDI In/Out/Thru, 2 pedal inputs,
  • USB-B Bus powered with audio and headphone Out

The Osmore features a Continuum MPE Fingerboard and a MIDI keyboard right under it , both sharing the Eagan Matrix sound engine. But playing the same patch on both keyboards is a totally different experience. The Osmose MIDI controller bed is your regular MIDI keyboard.

The MPE controller has 3-D aftertouch – horizontal, vertical, and extended Z-axis. It enables expressivity for instruments like trumpet and violin, adding the “human element” like nothing else can. Plus, you can customize sensitivities and curves to best suit your playing style.

The granular synthesis, physical modeling, and the integration of waveguides and convolution yield intense ways to interact with a patch . The streamlined interface makes it easy to access and edit what you need. Unlike other MPE devices (read: Artiphon, Roli), Osmose is also a traditional MIDI keyboard, allowing conventional use when required.

It also boasts DIN MIDI in/out/thru, two pedal ports for sustain and a user-defined synth parameter, pseudo-balanced 1/4-inch TS outputs, and a 1/4-inch TRS headphone output with a dedicated volume knob. But the combination of the MPE and MIDI controllers gives superior control, eliminating the need for complex automation and control signals.

We’re confident the Osmose will be omnipresent in chart-topping tracks soon. Luckily, there’s no prerequisite skill level to milk its union of sound and movement . However, you must cough up a small fortune to enter new dimensions of creative performance.

  • Best pick for expressivity and engagement
  • Deep onboard controls to edit, save, and recall patches

Best Alternative:  

There is nothing comparable to the Osmose 49 at the moment, and it’s not available in any other size. However, musicians and performers can explore more options by reading this article covering seven weird MIDI controllers that defy convention .

4. Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller (Best Value)

Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller

The latest flagship of Arturia's acclaimed KeyLab Series, KeyLab 88 MKII features the impeccable, authentic grand piano feel and response of a premium Fatar TP100LR 88-note hammer-action keybed with aftertouch. As compared with its highly respected predecessor, KeyLab 88 MKII offers dramatic workflow improvements and enhanced software integration via its DAW Command Center.

  • Clean aesthetic and manageable weight
  • Excellent connectivity option for analog gear
  • Bundled software and freebies add value

“The best keyboard for soft synth enthusiasts and connecting to external hardware.”

How much would you pay for a fully-weighted master keyboard with two refined grand pianos and a soft synth package? Arturia thinks the answer is three digits, and this product has been around long enough to know it’s not a typo.

So, we tout it as the best MIDI keyboard controller for various music production and playing requirements. This model is available in white and black, and there are 49- and 61-key versions with varying software bundles.

  • 88-note Fatar keybed with hammer-action, velocity sensitivity, and aftertouch
  • Hammer-action velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 pads, 9 encoders & faders, pitch/mod wheels
  • Seamless integration with Arturia software
  • USB bus powered, CV/Gate, MIDI, USB, and 3 pedal inputs
  • Requirements: Windows 8.1 and macOS X 10.13 or later

This white 88-note MIDI keyboard has wooden cheeks and comes with a music stand and computer platform/shelf. Its weighted keys are velocity and aftertouch-sensitive, with 10 curves to tailor the response. The keyboard controller has standard features and functionality, including buttons, knobs, sliders, transport controls, 5-pin DIN, and four assignable control inputs .

It’s compatible with every major DAW and offers valuable production tools like Multi mode to split/layer two sounds and Chord mode to replay up to 16 user-defined chords via the pads. Likewise, Live Mode and Snapshots let you allocate sounds and multis for quick recall.

BUT… the software bundle is the clear-cut USP here , and the MIDI keyboard comes with the highly acclaimed Analog Lab V plug-in. You also get licenses for Pianoteq 5 and UVI Grand Piano. The former is an easy-on-the-CPU physically-model piano, and the latter is a sample-based plug-in that mimics the realistic and multi-timbral tones of a Steinway Model D.

That being the case, the Arturia KeyLab 88 is an ideal candidate to get your money’s worth. It’s by no means the “best” MIDI Keyboard on the market, but the accessible price, bundled software, and hardware add-ons make it perfect if you can’t spend four figures .

  • Impressive instant-access controls
  • Excellent connectivity option for analog/modular gear
  • Analog Lab V presets are endless fun
  • Only available in white
  • No escapement action
  • The onboard editing system has a learning curve

If this one is still beyond your budget, the Arturia Keylab Essential is a cut-down package that retains the V collection sound palette, endless rotary encoders, and other differentiators. Incidentally, the 49-key version was our top pick for the best MIDI keyboard for beginners .

P.S. – Take a look at our top picks for the 7 Best 88-Key Synthesizers (All Budgets).

5. Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller 

Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller 

Native Instruments' retooled Komplete Kontrol S61 MK2 includes powerful new features such as high-resolution full-color displays, pitch and mod wheels, a four-directional push encoder, and more, along with unrivaled integration with your Komplete instrument collection. The Komplete Kontrol S61's smooth-playing Fatar keybed is a joy to play, and its purpose-built browser section makes navigating NI's tag-based preset system quick and intuitive. 

  • Top-notch graphical displays
  • Improved DAW integration
  • Perfect to drive Maschine MK3 software

NI’s collection of libraries and virtual instruments has massive appeal for every musician, producer, and film composer. That being the case, the Komplete S61 MIDI keyboard becomes a top-shelf choice to use NI-designed hardware for deep integration and create a smooth workflow using NKS-ready content.

The Smart Play features, streamlined browsing, and instant sound previews are reason enough to call it the best MIDI keyboard for NKS-ready content.

  • Available in 25-, 32-, 49-, 61-, 88-key versions
  • Semi-weighted Fatar keybed with 3-sensor detection
  • 8 RGB-lit knobs, 4-D push encoder, touch strip, pitch/mod wheels
  • USB bus powered, MIDI In/Out/USB, 2 pedal inputs
  • Requirements: Windows 10 and macOS 10.12 or later

The S61 features an aftertouch-enabled Fatar keyboard, USB 2.0 support, twin MIDI ports, and two pedal controller sockets. Its buttons, rotaries, ribbon-style slides, and color screen functions have a clear agenda, granting customization options and extended functionality.

This MIDI keyboard makes perfect sense if you are or plan to be a Komplete 11 user. Its main gig is the NI titles and making NKS-ready content easier to access. It shares functionality with Maschine MKII, so it’s perfect to drive the Maschine software while arranging tracks.

The keyboard controller lets you drive every aspect of the workflow , and the transport controls and 4-way push encoder are our favorite features. We also appreciate the ability to search and listen to sounds in the browser without loading them.

But if you aren’t ‘Konnected,’ the device comes with a downloadable Komplete 11 Select package link. There are upgrade paths for undecided users so that you can set up everything later.

In conclusion, this MIDI keyboard works best for NI-supported instruments and libraries, but it also communicates well with all major DAWs , including Logic Pro X and Ableton Live.

  • A complete studio solution to operate within the NI ecosystem
  • Improved DAW integration features for all major DAWs
  • Still can’t substitute the Maschine MK3
  • Not adapted for live performances

Nothing is comparable to the NI Komplete S61 if you are working with NKS-ready content or NI Maschine. The best we can do is recommend the 88-note version to enable upper and lower-end key switching if you rely heavily on KONTAKT samplers.

P.S. – Check out our article on Akai Force vs. Maschine MK3 (Differences & Which to Buy).

6. Novation 61SL MK3 MIDI Keyboard (Best for Ableton)

Novation 61SL MK3 MIDI Keyboard

With the Novation 61SL MkIII, you'll take control of your projects like never before. Experience first-class action, thanks to an expressive synth-style semi-weighted keybed. Command your synths and modules with ease, courtesy of MIDI In, Out, and Out 2/Thru; Analog Clock Out; and two sets of CV Pitch, Gate, and Mod outputs. Harness the full power of any InControl- or HUI-compatible DAW using the 61SL MkIII's pads, buttons, faders, and knobs.

  • Touch-sensitive controls
  • Easy to navigate near-universal controller
  • Excellent DAW/plug-in integration

“The best MIDI keyboard for real-time control over everything in one spread.”

The Novation 61SL MK3 marries a stellar feature set with an onboard sequencer and various digital and analog outputs. The flexible interfacing of hardware and software enables a versatile workflow and near-limitless creative possibilities.

Based on that, the 61SL is one of the best all-purpose MIDI keyboards to sequence and control plug-ins, MIDI instruments, analog hardware, and DAWs.

  • Available in 49- and 61-key versions
  • Semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
  • 16 pads, 8 faders & encoders, pitch/mod wheels – All backlit
  • 8-step sequencer, dedicated transport control, bundled Ableton Live Lite
  • USB bus powered, MIDI In, Out, Out2/Thru, and USB, 2 pedal inputs
  • Requirements: Windows 7 SP1 and MacOS 10.11.6 or later

The SL MkIII has synth-style semi-weight keys – aftertouch-enabled with a fixed or adjustable velocity curve. The MIDI keyboard is replete with knobs, buttons, faders, and pads to control your DAW. It also features 5 LCD screens to monitor parameters and backlit pitch/mod wheels.

Round back, you’ve got three DIN ports (one switchable) and pedal outputs for sustain, expression, and foot switch. Analog buffs can commandeer their synths and modules using the excellent clock out and two CV pitch/gate/mod outputs channels.

The MIDI keyboard’s deep integration with Ableton, Logic, and Reason makes it employable immediately (read: out of the box). Moreover, the eight-track sequencer and built-in arp are apt to fuel your creative outbursts, and the scales, modes, and zones bestow complete control of your projects.

The pre-mapped controls, well-designed templates, and Components app are also strong selling points. But take some time to adapt it to your setup, and don’t forget the USB port only connects to a computer. It needs a 12VDC external power adapter at all times.

  • Twinkly lights make for excellent visual feedback
  • Impressive Automap controller assignment
  • The step sequencer has limitations
  • Odd quirks for Logic Pro X user

The Novation Launchkey 61 is the best alternative to the SL MK3 for Abelton users on a budget. Likewise, the M‑Audio Oxygen Pro 61 is also an excellent choice for DAW integration and playback. But both MIDI Keyboards fall behind on touch-sensitive controls.

P.S. – Check out our Launchpad Pro vs. Push 2 Shootout to find the best unit for your needs. 

7. Nektar Panorama P6 61-Key MIDI Keyboard (Best Controller Surface)

Nektar Panorama P6 61-Key MIDI Keyboard

Take control of Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Nuendo, Logic Pro, Reason, Main Stage, and Reaper like never before with the tightly integrated hardware control that's only available from Nektar Panorama controllers. Because Nektar Panorama controllers are pre-mapped for these 5 DAWs, every control feature in your DAW software is accessible via the pads, faders, encoders, and buttons on this 61-key portable keyboard.

  • Motorized ALPS fader
  • Ideal for controller
  • Fairly portable for the size

“The best MIDI keyboard for controlling your DAW and outboard MIDI gear.”

Nektar MIDI keyboards are famed for superior DAW integration, making them a top contender for a studio centerpiece at a reasonable price point. The Panorama P6 achieves that with 93 real-time controls, modern control features, software shortcuts, and best-in-class communication protocol.

The controller keyboard’s deep integration and playability make it enjoyable to use out of the box, and it’s prevalent among Reason and Logic Pro X users.

  • 61-key MIDI Keyboard Control Surface
  • 12 pads, 16 encoders, 9 faders, pitch/mod wheels
  • Deep DAW integration for Logic Pro , Reason, Cubase, Bitwig, and Nuendo
  • USB bus powered, 1 motorized fader, 5-pin MIDI din output, 2 pedal inputs
  • Requirements: Windows 8 and MacOS X 10.7 or later

This Panorama P6 hosts a good amount of pots/pads/faders, an 11-button transport bar that doubles up as a function bar, and two assignable pedal inputs. It also boasts a motorized ALPS fader to control and set up channel automation , an LCD screen that displays real-time info for a fluent workflow, Qwerty macros, and channel strip control to access sends, inserts, EQ, etc.

However, the critical asset is the pre-mapped controls that tie the MIDI keyboard tightly to Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Logic Pro , Studio One, and Reason. Whatever the DAW, the P6 is a top-notch control surface to create, record, and perform using the mode and menu options.

All things considered, the P6 is one of the best control surfaces for deep DAW use and highly customizable plug-in control . It also excels at seamless one-button switching to Mixer, Transport, and Instruments modes without touching your mouse or keyboard.

  • Excellent componentry and functionality
  • Class-leading DAW integration
  • Keys feel a bit cheap
  • No bundled software
  • Poor integration for Ableton

The Nektar Panorama T6 is the best alternative for music producers willing to skip the motorized fader and semi-weighted keys. If you want piano-like keys, the StudioLogic SL73 offers stellar features/functionality and connectivity around the back. It’s not very portable, though.

Buying Advice: How to Pick the Best MIDI Keyboards

There’s much to consider when determining the best MIDI keyboard controllers. They come in various shapes and sizes and are valued for portability, deep DAW use, software bundles, or do-it-all control over your plug-ins, mixer, and transport controls. Below, we discuss the specs and features for finding the best device to level up your music production workflow.

Key Size and Action

There are two aspects to the MIDI keyboard keybed – key size and action. In other words, the keys can be mini or full-size, with soft, semi-weighted, or fully-weighted action. Soft keys are also called synth-action keys, and weighted keys are hammer-action or piano-style keys.

Key size won’t matter if you use MIDI keyboards to lay down beats, bass, basic chords, and melodies. Small, synth-action keys are responsive and don’t take up too much studio real estate.

Conversely, if you are a piano or keyboard player, you’ll want a full-sized keybed with semi-weighted or hammer-action keys to recreate the feel of the traditional instrument.

What Is the Best MIDI Keyboard Size? 

The top MIDI keyboard controllers may have a 25-, 37-, 49-, 61-, 73-, or 88-note keybed. The best size (number of keys) depends on the intended purpose of the controller and piano/keyboard skill level.

A trained classical pianist may find operating a 25-key synth-action keyboard frustrating. Likewise, a novice won’t fully utilize an 88-note behemoth, resulting in overkill.

Luckily, all top MIDI keyboards have buttons to shift octaves, so every size – even 25-key controllers – allows you to access the full range of pitches. However, it can be inconvenient to push buttons while playing, and a smaller keybed prohibits two-handed playing.

Broadly speaking, on-the-go musicians and music producers prefer a 25-key MIDI keyboard that fits in a backpack because portability is paramount. If you work from a fixed location, consider 49 to 88-note MIDI keyboards based on how you intend to utilize them.

Lastly, advanced players will lean towards 61+ keys to play two-handed, and 88-note keyboards best serve pianists.

Ease of Use

Most music producers agree that good MIDI keyboards should be easy to set up, if not wholly plug-and-play. They should work as advertised out of the box, especially if they promise auto mapping and seamless integration with specific DAWs. It also helps if there is a community or forum where you can troubleshoot problems and get quick, reliable answers.

Connectivity

Music producers want connectivity options that allow them to work in the box, so we’ve picked USB bus-powered keyboard controllers with one to three pedal inputs around the back.

Opt for one pedal, at the very least, if you plan to use a sustain pedal for convincing piano parts. 5-pin MIDI out ports aren’t a must-have feature unless you plan to connect hardware.

DAW/Plug-in Integration

MIDI Keyboards with top-notch DAW/plug-in integration let you control your DAW, plug-ins, and virtual instruments with one device. These features are essential to adjust parameters using the controller and ditch the mouse/keyboard for play/pause and record arming.

Many top-rated keyboard controllers can serve as a command center if you are into that sort of thing. But some do it better than others. For instance, Nektar units are synonymous with deep integration.

Novation is a shoo-in for Ableton Live , and NI Komplete MIDI controllers are designed for interfacing hardware with supported NI instruments and libraries.

MIDI controller keyboard may have varying knobs, sliders, wheels/joysticks, pads, and keys. You can determine the “value for money” by weighing the features and functionality against the device’s asking price. However, more is not always better and will add to the learning curve.

Secondly, entry-level MIDI keyboards may be feature-rich, but the hardware may feel cheap/flimsy and respond inconsistently to aftertouch. On the other hand, the top brands have a proven reputation, so it’s best to pay more if you want a market-tested MIDI controller.

Lastly, MIDI keyboards entice buyers with software bundles worth hundreds of dollars. Free software adds value, but only if the titles are helpful for your audio projects.

Before you go, check out our guide to our Best Free MIDI Keyboard Software (6 Great Options)!

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Vinny, a bass player from India, is equally adept at yoga, fingerstyle guitar, and sipping tea. He is a seasoned session player who has toured with bands across India using all available means of transportation. From Thundercat to Palladino to MonoNeon, he is always game for a stank-face and a tight pocket. He now works as a music journalist/writer, plays fingerstyle acoustic, and is working on his debut album as a singer-songwriter.

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The 7 best new MIDI controllers and sequencers of 2022, as voted for by you

It's time to celebrate the keys-masters...

Arturia Minilab mk3

We may have asked you to vote for the best new MIDI controller or sequencer of 2022, but the reality is that you may have been voting for both.

Confused? We’re referring to the fact that many of today’s new MIDI keyboards come with sequencing features baked right into them, meaning that you can do all your ‘controlling’ from a single device.

Others don’t even look or feel like standard keyboards, and some even have their own sounds, blurring (or perhaps even obliterating) the line between controller and standalone synth.

And, of course, as ever, the latest controllers come in multiple size options, with some even being designed specifically to be used with certain DAWs.

Which, though, is the best of 2022? Here’s what you think…

1. Arturia MiniLab mk3

The third-generation MiniLab is a similar offering to its predecessor, giving you a compact 25-note keyboard, various other control features and plenty of sounds courtesy of the tightly integrated Analog Lab intro software that comes included.

The slim keys are joined by pads, faders and knobs, plus touchstrips for pitchbend and modulation and a new OLED display. There’s also a built-in arpeggiator, a Chord mode and custom DAW presets for Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Bitwig Studio and Reason.

The obligatory USB port, meanwhile, is now of the 'C' variety, and there's now a proper 5-pin MIDI Out, too.

As well as being built “with longevity and sustainability in mind” - a five-year warranty is evidence of Arturia ’s confidence in the design and components - MiniLab 3 is also said to be “the world’s first eco-designed MIDI keyboard”. Arturia claims that it’s made with a minimum of 50% recycled plastic and generates less waste during production, while the packaging is said to be 100% recyclable.

So, this is a controller that could be good for both your music-making and the planet: a win-win.

2. ROLI Seaboard Rise 2

If you thought that you’d seen the last of ROLI  and its  Seaboard  range of controllers, think again, as we now have the Seaboard Rise 2. 

Launched in 2015, the  Rise  was a more affordable version of ROLI’s full-size Seaboard  MPE  controller, but has been off the market for two years. The new version is easier to play, more durable, and comes with a better bundle of software.

The most significant improvement over the original Rise might well be the Keywave2 silicone playing surface, which provides ‘frets’ that enable players to more accurately judge the position of their fingers on each key. As well as making Rise 2 more playable than its predecessor, it's also easier for players accustomed to standard keyboards to get to grips with.

Rise 2 also offers a new platinum blue anodised aluminium chassis, giving it a more contemporary look. Build quality is said to have been improved, and you now get both standard MIDI and USB-C ports to ensure maximum compatibility with your software and hardware instruments.

Features inherited from the original Rise include the Touch Fader controls, integrated battery and Bluetooth MIDI support for wireless operation.

The Rise has truly risen again, then.

3. Joué Play Pro Option

Stray outside the mainstream of MIDI controller products and you’ll often find innovations from smaller companies. One is the Joué Play.

Developed by Arnaud Rousset and Pascal Jouguet (co-creator of the JazzMutant Lemur multitouch controller, best known for use by Björk), this is a modular system with a wooden baseboard, and up to four different control layouts, connecting to macOS, Windows, or iOS .

The board is made from French beechwood and metal, and feels more substantial than the average budget controller, with wooden elements reminiscent of Snyderphonics Manta, and Livid Instruments’ Ohm. 

The available layouts are: pian; (25-key piano); drum pad (16 drum pads with x-y area); keys (17-key alternative style keyboard with expression strip); and guitar (representing the first seven frets on a guitar neck). 

The Joué Play should attract newcomers and seasoned musicians alike. We also think this’ll be a kid-friendly instrument, finding a home in SEN teaching situations where individual students have different needs for how they play.

Read Joué Play Pro Option review

4. Novation Launchkey 88 Mk3

Novation’s Launchkey controller keyboards have been very successful. Now at version 3, they continues to provide a good balance of price and features, and in 2022 we got a new 88-key model.

It supports the HUI protocol, so you can use it with any suitably-equipped DAW. That said, custom scripting means it integrates best with Ableton Live. It also gets extended support in Cubase 12 via a pre-installed script, and there are user-installable scripts for Logic Pro and Reason.

Like most 88-key keyboards, the layout differs a bit from the smaller models, with the mod and pitch wheels on the top panel, and the controls spread out a little bit more. 

Nevertheless, you’ve still got the Launchkey core feature set of 16 backlit velocity-sensitive pads with selectable polyphonic aftertouch, four Ableton Live navigation pads, eight pots, nine sliders with accompanying buttons, a small LCD display and transport controls. 

The keyboard itself combines gloss finish white keys with contrasting satin finish black keys, and the semi-weighted keybed is a different design from the other Launchkeys. 

Offering a playable semi-weighted and a great set of features, Launchkey 88 Mk3 is a fine option at its price point.

Read Novation Launchkey 88 Mk3

5. Novation FLkey 37 and FLkey Mini

Billed as the first dedicated MIDI keyboards for FL Studio, the FLKey 37 and FLKey Mini integrate fully with Image-Line’s DAW, and promising "seamless music production and an intuitive workflow”.

As with many bespoke DAW controllers, the FLkey range enables you to do more without having to look at your screen and use your mouse or keyboard. You get direct access to the mixer and step sequencer, along with channel rack playability from the pads.

You can also control instruments and automation, browse presets from Image-Line plugins and assign custom controls.

The Mini is a flexible little controller that you can take anywhere and fits into the smallest nook in your studio or live rig, but if we were going to choose just one model, it’d be the FLkey 37. The display and the extra buttons, plus its expanded playing functions, make it worth the extra money and the extra space - recommended for any FL Studio user seeking keyboard integration and hardware control.

Read Novation FLkey 37 and FLkey Mini review

6. Akai MPK Mini Plus

2022 was the year that Akai upsized its  MPK Mini   MIDI keyboard  and released a Plus version. This comes with an extended three-octave keyboard, a built-in sequencer, MIDI and CV/Gate connectivity, proper pitch and mod wheels, MPC pads, knobs, transport controls and more.

That’s a pretty comprehensive spec list, and one that puts MPK Mini Plus in direct competition with Arturia’s popular KeyStep 37 controller.

The 37 slim keys use Akai’s second-generation dynamic bed, while the polyphonic two-track sequencer - designed for creating melodic and drum patterns - comes with Step and Live modes. There are eight notes of polyphony per key step, 16 notes per drum step and an onboard arpeggiator.

As with so many modern MIDI keyboards, the MPK Mini Plus offers Chord and Scale modes - used for triggering chords with a single key and locking the keyboard to a selected scale respectively. Both modes feature plenty of options and there are 15 scale settings.

7. Akai MPK Mini Play mk3

Not only a super-compact MIDI keyboard controller (though it most certainly can be that), Akai Professional’s MPK Mini Play mk3 is also a self-contained portable instrument that offers 128 built-in sounds.

These cover acoustic/electric pianos, synths, pads, drum kits and more, and the fact that there’s a built-in speaker - a better, more powerful one than was in the original MPK Mini Play - means you can jam away without any other hardware. There’s also a 1/8-inch headphone jack so you can shut the world out when you need to.

Portability is further aided by a battery power option, which promises to give you more than 14 hours of runtime. You can also power the keyboard via USB.

The 25-note keyboard is said to be more playable than before, with improved velocity response. With just two octaves to work with, though, there’s not going to be a great deal of scope for giving two-handed performances.

The eight velocity-sensitive drum pads, meanwhile, are now officially ‘MPC-style’ ones, while the four parameter control knobs have been moved above them. There’s an arpeggiator onboard, too, along with an OLED display. 

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The 7 Best 25-Key Mini MIDI Keyboard Controllers 2024

by James Nugent Last Updated October 18, 2021

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James Nugent

James is an USA-based writer and musician with a passion for audio production. Growing up he was surrounded by talented musicians and different forms of music, which set the path for both his personal and private life. He played several instruments during his childhood, dipping his toes into all sorts of musical genres, but once grown-up he discovered that his true calling is music production, rather than creation.

Consordinis articles are written by musicians who independently research, test, and recommend the best instruments and products. We are reader-supported. When you purchase through links in our articles, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you are a producer who wants to work on the go, you need to check out the best 25-key MIDI controllers available in 2024. These backpack-sized controllers have got you covered whenever/wherever the creative mood strikes.

Our top 7 doesn’t just include the most portable MIDI keyboards but also some genuine studio powerhouses. From drum pads to deep DAW integration, these compact MIDI controllers have it all.

Here are the best 25-key mini MIDI controllers in 2024:

  • Akai MPK Mini Play
  • Arturia MiniLab MkII
  • Novation Launchkey Mini
  • NI Komplete Kontrol A25
  • Alesis VI25
  • Nektar SE25
  • Korg microKEY2 Air

1. Akai MPK Mini Play

The one that does it all

Akai Professional might be most known for their MPC pads, but they are no novices when it comes to MIDI keyboards either. The Akai MPK Mini Play takes what the MPK Mini MkII offered and goes a few steps further. The main reason we place it above the other 25-key MIDI controllers is that it has authentic MPC pads .

It has eight drum pads that are by far the most responsive in its class. They are perfect for quickly laying down a beat when you are producing new ideas. The pads have two banks (A and B), which means you have 16 pad slots to assign samples in total.

The most significant upgrade is that the MPK Play has a built-in sound module and speaker . It comes packed with 128 voices and 10 drum kits, covering a wide range of styles. You no longer need a laptop and software to generate sound; you can literally play anywhere (with batteries, of course).

The MPK Mini Play comes with the Akai Professional VIP 3.0 software . VIP 3.0 is a sophisticated virtual instrument player and workflow management system. What it does is lets you load your plugins and combine up to eight virtual instruments and effects with key zones and custom mapping. It’s basically an easy way to combine the plugins that you use most, and an excellent way to find combinations you might not have considered before.

Along with VIP 3.0, you get a whole bunch of software , including Pro Tools First, Hybrid, Wobble, MPC Essentials, and some MPC expansion packs.

The MPK Mini MkII was a long time favorite of our and a trusted travel companion, the MPK Mini Play is a worthy successor to the throne. Akai MPC pads are the best around, and having them on such a portable MIDI controller is perfect for any producer on the road.

The built-in sound module might not produce voices that you will use in your final track (although some are great), but it lets you work on ideas no matter where you are. It has everything that you want from a little MIDI controller and more. For our money, it’s the best 25-key MIDI controller around right now.

2. Arturia MiniLab MkII

All style and substance

Arturia is on a roll at the moment; the latest line up of MIDI controllers is fantastic. The MiniLab MkII is the little brother to the KeyLab series, and it shares the same sleek yet functional design.

It features slim synth-action keys that offer a well-balanced feel for various sounds. The Minilab MkII has the same velocity-sensitive pads that you find on the larger KeyLab models. There are eight pads with two banks, giving you up to 16 assignable pads.

In typical Arturia fashion, there are lots of assignable encoders , 16 to be exact. Two of the encoders are clickable to provide deeper integration with Arturia’s Analog Lab software.

The MiniLab MkII comes with Analog Lab Lite , a slimmed-down version of Arturia’s flagship virtual instruments package. Even though it’s not the full version, it’s still packed with 500 top-notch sounds . Along with Analog Lab, you also get a copy of Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano. So, from acoustic instruments to electric pianos, to synths, you get the lot.

The MiniLab Mk2 is the best looking portable MIDI keyboard on our list; it’s gorgeous. The reason that matters is that it would be easy to assume it’s all style over substance, but that not the case at all.

The keys feel good; the pads are responsive, and the massive amount of encoders make it perfect for bedroom producers. It would be nice if it still came with more sounds, but Analog Lab Lite is so good, it’s hard to complain.

3. Novation Launchkey Mini

The best portable MIDI controller for Ableton

The Novation Launchkey Mini is one of the most functional 25-key MIDI controllers on the market. It comes with a full set of 16 velocity-sensitive pads , which is rare on a controller so small. Despite being small and the larger number of pads, the layout of the Launchkey Mini isn’t too clustered at all.

Novation has upgraded the keybed for the Launchkey Mini MkIII, and it feels better than most mini-key controllers you will ever play. Rather than a pitch/mod wheel, Novation has gone for touch strips that work very well.

Two built-in features really stand out; they are the onboard arpeggiator and chord mode . Chord mode has a few different settings, rhythmic patterns, and ranges over four octaves. It lets you set different chord shaped then trigger them with a single note. There’s also a mutate mode that will automatically generate different variations.

The Launchkey Mini is purpose-built for Ableton, but it works well with other DAWs , too. It comes with a pretty useful software bundle , including Ableton Live Lite, AAS Session Bundle, and assorted plugins.

Novation never seems to go far wrong when it comes to MIDI controllers. They have been doing it for a while now and doing it as well as most. The Launchkey Mini MkIII is possibly one of the best feeling keyboards on our list; it’s lovely to play. The fact that it’s intended for Ableton might put some users off, but it’s a minor issue at most. Overall, it’s one of the best mini MIDI controllers you can buy.

4. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25

The best for Native Instruments plugins

The Komplete Kontrol series has been a big success amongst lovers of Native Instruments plugins. This A25 model comes with a semi-weighted custom Native Instruments keybed . The feel of the keys provides enough resistance when you want it, but they snap back fast enough for playing synths or percussion.

Eight touch-sensitive rotary knobs are pre-mapped to Komplete Instruments or can be assigned to parameters in your DAW. A quad-directional push encoder allows you to browse sounds and effects with one hand while previewing them with the other.

The A25 has some handy transport controls and integrates with major DAW’s for hands-on control. There is a small OLED display that helps you browse presets, but browsing is far easier via the Komplete Kontrol software. The software enables tag-based browsing, making it must easier to find the right sound quickly.

Another nice feature for a speedy workflow is Smart Play ; it lets you map over 100 scales/modes to white keys only. It also lets you trigger chords or arpeggios from a single note.

Native Instruments put together a comprehensive software bundle for the A25, including Komplete Instruments & Effects, Komplete Kontrol, and Maschine Essentials. As we mentioned already, the A25 is pre-mapped to all of the Native Instruments Software.

The Komplete Kontrol A25 is a pretty ambitious effort from Native Instruments, and for the most part, it’s on the money. It’s a little bulkier than it needs to be, but with the significant functionality on offer, we can forgive the extra size. Native Instruments make some absolutely amazing instruments, and the included bundle is top-notch.

It’s a simple conclusion; if you mainly use NI plugins, this is the only 25-key MIDI controller for you. If not, there are a couple of better options, but it’s still one of our top-rated 25-key MIDI controllers.

5. Alesis VI25

The little studio workhorse

Alesis has a reputation for delivering maximum functionality on a budget. The VI25 packs in about as much as a 25-key MIDI controller can handle.

There are two things that you will notice straight away, full-size keys and 16 velocity-sensitive drum pads . The keys are semi-weighted with aftertouch, and the pads are second only to the Akai MPK Play.

Like any other controller with pads , the pads can be used to trigger samples or loops. Where the VI25 pads come into their own is full-on finger drumming because they are very responsive.

It features eight illuminated, assignable rotary knobs and 24 assignable buttons. That level of assignable control is unheard of on most MIDI controllers of this size. Along with the assignable controls, there are dedicated transport controls for speedy recording/editing in your DAW.

The VI25 is not only ideal for controlling your virtual instruments but thanks to a 5-pin MIDI out, it’s great for controlling external gear. It works fantastically well with any DAW , but it comes with a copy of Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition.

The Alesis VI25 is very good in almost every area. Having 16 high-quality drum pads and full-size keys with aftertouch are amazing for a 25-key controller. However, adding those features means the controller won’t be as small as most others. Ultimately, it’s not the most portable MIDI controller on our list. But, if it’s mainly for studio use, you should definitely check out the Alesis VI25.

6. Nektar SE25

The one you didn’t expect

The Nektar SE25 is the most unassuming controller on our list. At a glance, it doesn’t look like it has too much to offer, but looks can be deceiving.

Being so small doesn’t leave much room to play with when it comes to a realistic keybed. However, the mini-keys on the SE25 have three velocity curves and are as responsive as most.

The entire body of the SE25 isn’t much bigger than the size of the keys. So, as far as being portable goes, it’s as good as it gets. Despite being so small, there are six assignable buttons (octaves, transpose, MIDI channel, layer, and latch).

One unique feature of the SE25 is the Part Two function . By holding the ‘2’ button, you can temporarily switch to a different octave, MIDI channel, or add a harmony layer. Releasing the button returns you to the original voice setting, opening up new performance possibilities.

The SE25 comes with Bitwig 8-Track with over 50 virtual instruments and effects. What’s even more impressive is that Nektar’s DAW integration software instantly maps your controller to popular DAWs . A feature that is rarely found on a controller this cheap, if ever.

The Nektar SE25 had to make it onto our list for its price and size more than anything else. That’s not to say it doesn’t have any impressive features; the Part Two function is very clever indeed. The fact it has such easy DAW integration for under $50 is another massive plus.

If you want something cheap, small, and reliable, look no further. For those with minimal luggage space, the SE25 is quite possibly the ultimate MIDI keyboard for travel.

7. Korg microKEY2 Air

The no-nonsense Korg

Korg isn’t usually the first name that comes to mind when we think about portable MIDI controllers. However, the Korg microKEY2 Air is one of the best we have seen so far.

It comes with Korg’s natural-touch keys , which are ever so slightly heavier than most similar controllers. The keybed encourages more expressive playing and works well with the sustain button .

The microKEY2 Air has an onboard arpeggiator to add motion to your ideas. In addition to the arpeggiator and sustain buttons, there is octave up/down buttons and a pitch/mod joystick . The joystick gives you all the control you need to shape and bend your sound as you wish. One of the best features of the Korg microKEY2 Air is how streamlined it is; it has what it needs and no more.

It connects to your computer or smart device via Bluetooth or USB. The Bluetooth connection is low-latency, but like any wireless connection, results will vary. If you are going completely wireless, you will get around 30 hours of play from two AA batteries.

Korg throws in a very respectable software bundle , including their Legacy Collection M1 Le, AAS Modules, Propellerhead Reason Limited, and more.

The Korg microKEY2 Air is one of the most portable 25-key MIDI controllers available. It doesn’t come with a lot of features; there are no pads, no knobs or faders, but that’s part of its appeal. If you want a MIDI controller that can do a bit of everything, it won’t be this one.

If you want an expressive keyboard that offers no more than necessary without taking up valuable space in your bag, it’s this one. The microKEY2 Air one of the smallest MIDI controllers on the market and the included software bundle is a lovely bonus.

The great thing about these little mini MIDI keyboards is that they are the middle-man between the studio and the outside world. How many times have you been away from home and had a fantastic idea that you forgot before you got back to the studio?

If you travel, you need one of these, and what’s even better is that they are a contributing part of any home studio, too (not just on the go). So, choose wisely, and never miss an opportunity to lay down a killer track again.

Music Critic

10 Best Midi Keyboard Controllers in 2023

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Before we dive into the list of the best midi keyboard controllers available on the market, we should first take a look at what a midi keyboard is and the types of tasks it can perform. Well, the answer to both of these questions is pretty simple. A midi keyboard is a piano-style interface that has the capability of transferring midi signals to connected devices. The signals are transferred through a midi cable or USB. These devices should be on the same midi protocol interface.

Table of Contents

At a glance: Our top 3 picks

1. novation impulse 25 usb midi controller keyboard, 2. arturia keylab 88 usb hybrid midi keyboard controller, 3. akai professional mpk249 49-key keyboard, 4. m-audio keystation 49-key usb midi keyboard controller, 5. alesis v49 | 49 key usb midi keyboard controller, 6. m-audio oxygen mkiv 49-key usb midi keyboard, 7. akai professional mpk mini mkii 25-key usb midi controller, 8. novation launchkey mini 25-note usb keyboard controller, 9. akai professional mpk mini mkii le 25-key portable usb midi keyboard, 10. behringer u-control umx610 61-key usb/midi controller keyboard, our top pick, premium choice, great value, midi keyboards faqs, what are midi keyboards, how to choose a midi keyboard, best midi keyboards for beginners.

You'll find a lot of midi keyboards to choose from these days. With so many options available, selecting the best of the bunch can be a real task. This list will help you to make the best choice midi keyboard based on your needs.

travel controller midi

  • Equipped with a semi-weighted action that is ultra-responsive.
  • Good software control.
  • Multifunction drum pads.

travel controller midi

View The Best Midi Keyboard Controller Below

Novation Impulse 25 USB Midi Controller Keyboard, 25 Keys

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There are a few key factors to look for when you're looking at midi keyboards. They can make or break your experience once you get your keyboard home. The things to bear in mind when shopping for a midi keyboard are key count, keyboard action types, aftertouch, faders, buttons and knobs, and performance pads. One midi controller keyboard that comes equipped with all these features is the Novation Impulse 25 USB Midi Controller Keyboard, 25 Keys. It has all the features you've ever wanted in a midi controller keyboard.

Pros: + Equipped with a semi-weighted action that is ultra-responsive. + Good software control. + Multifunction drum pads.

Why We Liked It - The Novation Impulse 25 USB Midi Controller Keyboard, 25 Keys is a great option for you if you're buying a midi controller keyboard for the first time. It's compatible with various operating systems, DAWS, and has a fantastic touch response.

Producing on the Go - Don't forget to take portability into consideration. If you plan on producing on the go, it may not make sense to get a MIDI keyboard with more than 25 keys. A full-sized MIDI keyboard could be practical for frequent performers, though you'll certainly want to look for a model that is lightweight and fairly easy to move from one location to the next.

travel controller midi

Kate Brunotts FOR MUSIC CRITIC

1. Arturia KeyLab 88 USB Hybrid MIDI Keyboard Controller

There are a few questions you should ask yourself before buying a midi controller keyboard. How will you be using your midi keyboard? What sort of a keyboard action are you looking for? How many keys do you need? What additional features do you want? A midi keyboard that has all the answers you're looking for is the Arturia KeyLab 88 USB Hybrid MIDI Keyboard Controller.

Pros: + Ultra-light, which makes it highly portable. + Durable, high-end Italian-made finish. + Equipped with removable accessories such as a laptop stand and iPad or sheet music stand.

Why We Liked It - The build quality, the looks, the realistic piano. There's just nothing more you could ask of a  88key keyboard .

Akai Professional MPK249 49-Key Keyboard & Drum Pad

Akai is one of the major players in electronic music. You can rest assured that any Akai product you get is going to be perfect. This Japanese brand has a whole range of electronic products and has a long history of producing phenomenal quality electronic music goods.

The Akai Professional MPK249 49-Key Keyboard & Drum Pad is another superb product brought to you by one of the very best in the business. It's the ultimate solution to all of your midi keyboard needs. Looking to get your hands on the perfect all-in-one midi keyboard controller? Look no further than Akai.

Pros: + Has an all-in-one controller with keyboard and trigger pads. + Comes with 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 switches. + Semi-weighted action with 49 full-size keys that are pressure sensitive.

Why We Liked It - This keyboard is designed more with the professional in mind. As far as the pro musician is concerned, the Akai Professional MPK249 49-Key Keyboard & Drum Pad is one of the very best midi controller keyboards that you'll find in today's market.

Mappable Controls - MIDI keyboards with built-in knobs and drum pads can be exceptionally helpful for live performance or producing. Don't forget that you're not limited to the internal sounds of the keyboards themselves: These MIDI controllers are designed to link up with your DAW so that you can effortlessly play any sound you can think of.

travel controller midi

There are many things you'll require from your midi keyboard controller if you're a musician. You want it to  sound close to a traditional piano , simple playability, and want it to have all the key features necessary in a midi keyboard, so you can come up with innovative and spontaneous music ideas. The best midi controller keyboards have all these features.

Just take a look at the M-Audio Keystation 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller. It's a very simple yet powerful keyboard that's not only good for sequencing music, but also gives you the ability to play other virtual instruments on your PC or Mac.

Pros: + 49 full-size, semi-weighted velocity sensitive keys with 1/4-inch sustain pedal input. + Comes equipped with octave range buttons, transport controls, pitch bend and modulation wheels. + USB connection.

Why We Liked It - Whether you're a musician who is always on the move performing gigs or are simply a composer looking to record and mix music in the studio, the M-Audio Keystation 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller will get the job done to your total satisfaction.

travel controller midi

Alesis is a company that you can always rely on for quality, electronic music equipment. This midi keyboard controller has it all – as well as a low price tag. There are 49, full-sized keys that are velocity-sensitive, making them much more responsive than standard keys. Beat producers will love the eight, backlit pads that are also highly sensitive.

If you’re new to production, then you’ll appreciate that it comes with lots of different premium software, including ProTools. The whole unit has been designed with usability in mind, which makes it intuitive and a pleasure to make music with.

Pros: + Great Value for Money + Includes ProTools and More Software + Eight Backlit Pads + 49 Velocity Sensitive Keys + Easy-to-Use

Why We Liked It - It’s one of the best midi keyboard controllers because of its intuitive, easy-to-operate design, as well as all the premium software that comes with it.

M-Audio Oxygen MKIV 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller

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M-Audio is considered one of the big names in the musical instrument world. It has a strong history of manufacturing top of the line musical instruments. M-Audio also revolutionized the midi keyboard market by introducing the first portable midi keyboards, the Oxygen series making life for musicians everywhere a whole lot easier.

Thanks to continually advancing technology in the company, today's new and improved Oxygen MKIV looks quite different from the original Oxygen series But trust us, this is a very good thing.

Pros: + Powered by a USB connection. + 49 full-size keys that have a synth-action and are velocity sensitive. + Equipped with 8 trigger pads which are velocity-sensitive.

Why We Liked It - We all have personal preferences as far as choosing the midi keyboard is concerned, but M-Audio makes it easy by offering all sorts of great features in one convenient package.

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII 25-Key USB MIDI Controller

With a slogan of “take control wherever you go,” it should come as no surprise that this keyboard is super portable, thanks to its sleek, compact design. Avoid the fuss of picking up heavy instruments when playing a live performance with the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII 25-Key USB MIDI Controller. It's so portable you could easily fit it into a backpack.

Pros: + Can easily fit into backpacks and on a production desk . + 8 rubber drum pads that are velocity sensitive.

Why We Liked It - A total win-win situation for you if you're a musician and have the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII 25-Key USB MIDI Controller in your gear arsenal. With unbeatable features and a grab-and-go portability, you'll quickly fall in love with this midi controller.

Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note USB Keyboard Controller

Novation is well-known for coming up with some of the best quality products as far as midi keyboards are concerned. The Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note USB Keyboard Controller is no exception.

Pros: + Designed for Ableton Live. + Comes in equipped with 16 velocity sensitive multi-color pads. + 8 knobs, control buttons, and dedicated navigation.

Why We Liked It - Whatever you may need from your midi keyboard, the Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note USB Keyboard Controller provides it. From control buttons to pads, and more, this easy to use keyboard controller is functional and perfect for the constantly gigging musician.

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII LE 25-Key Portable USB MIDI Keyboard

Akai never ceases to impress with its range of midi controller keyboards. The AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII LE 25-Key Portable USB MIDI Keyboard is another classic product by Akai which is known for its portability.

Pros: + 25-synth-action mini-keys. + 8 velocity-sensitive rubber drum pads. + Powered by USB-connection.

Why We Liked It - You get what you pay for with the AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII LE 25-Key Portable USB MIDI Keyboard. Compact but with all the features you need, this is another outstanding product courtesy of Akai.

Behringer U-Control UMX610 61-Key USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard

Last but certainly not least on our list is the Behringer U-Control UMX610 61-Key USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard. From the playability to the stellar range of effects and virtual instruments it features, everything about this midi controller keyboard is top of the line.

Pros: + Has the capability of playing 100 virtual instruments. + 50 VST effects. + XT2.5 Compact BEHRINGER Edition music production software.

Why We Liked It - The Behringer U-Control UMX610 61-Key USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard is easily one of the best midi controller keyboards that you'll ever encounter. With so many features and specifications, it's a musician's dream.

Weighted Keys - If you're a pianist, or someone who enjoys recording complex melodies, it might be worth looking for a controller that has weighted keys. This will give you a similar feel to that of a traditional piano, making the transition to these electronic devices much easier. Look for controllers that have velocity-sensitive controls so that your DAW can capture the sound precisely how you played it.

MIDI Keyboard Buyers Guide

Before getting your hands on a new MIDI keyboard, get to know the basics. This part of our guide will take you through all the information you need to pick the best keyboard for your needs, hassle-free. First, let's look at the MIDI concept.

Musical Instrument Digital Interface or MIDI describes a protocol, digital interface, and connectors which are connected to each other to communicate. A single MIDI link can carry up to 16 channels of information and be routed to separate devices if needed.

A MIDI carries information that includes notation, velocity, and pitch for controlling volume, audio, cues, and vibratos that synchronize tempo between devices. This information is sent by MIDI cable to other devices.

MIDI was basically invented so instruments could communicate with each other. Instruments that don’t support analog signals can be controlled by MIDI through MIDI to Analog Control kits. When a note is played on a MIDI instrument a digital signal is generated which can trigger a sound on another instrument. Instrument control allows musicians to combine instruments and create new combinations.

Next up, MIDI can be used for composition. MIDI information can be sequenced with computer software (also known as DAWs) or in hardware music workstations. For instance, guitars that support MIDI are developed in DAWs so that messages/information can be modified. MIDI functionality allows musicians to quickly and efficiently edit their work, compared to a multitrack recording. Likewise, MIDI is a set of commands that generate sound.

Different sequences can be manipulated to create unique sounds that prerecorded audio is not capable of. You can change the key and tempo of MIDI arrangements for recording individual sections. MIDI gives you the ability to quickly hear your musical experimentations. MIDI 1.0 and General MIDI technology is used by artists to allow musical data files to be shared among various electronic instruments through a portable set of commands and parameters.

MIDI functionality came together with music audio computers when the personal computer market stabilized. Musicians use this combination for music production. MIDI function was featured in Apple II Plus, IIe, Macintosh, Commodore 64, Amiga, Atari ST, Acorn Archimedes, and PC DOS. In the early days of the technology, musicians in the US favored Macintosh due to its competitive price while those in Europe embraced the Atari ST for the same reasons.

Another reason for the popularity of Atari ST was that it offered direct MIDI ports, which convinced many software developing companies to design DAW software for either Apple or Atari. By 1990, Microsoft released Windows 3.0 which gave more processing power and a graphical interface to PCs, which persuaded companies to start releasing software on multi-platforms.

MIDI can be used with computers for the three purposes shown below:

  • The MIDI file system is known as a Standard MIDI file (SMF). It provides a quality way of saving, transporting, and opening music sequences in other computers. The size of the file is compact, which is compatible with virtually every electronic gadget: computers, mobile phone ringtones, greeting cards, etc. The files can be accessed universally and include information about specific timing, track name, and note values. Lyrics and text are not included in the data but it can be included as metadata.

The SMF file system was created as an export format of DAWs. The software organizes the MIDI information into parallel tracks along with a timestamp so they can be played according to the sequence. The header contains the information about arrangement track count, tempo, and the SMF format type of the file. Type 0 files contain a performance merged onto a single track, while type 1 contains a number of tracks. Type 2 stores multiple arrangements that are rarely used.

  • Don’t get confused; MIDI files are not actual audio tracks. Basically, they're set of instructions resulting in less disk space usage. MIDI file arrangements are easy to share because of their capacity. The main disadvantage of MIDI format is that there's a huge gap between actual data on the sound card and MIDI information. There is no standard set for expressing the symbols even in high-quality sound cards. So a wide range of samples has to be set in the sound card to unleashing the MIDI technology.
  • The main advantage of MIDI is that it can be connected to a PC or laptop. This enables you to take advantage of various software options for mixing sounds, copying, pasting, creating new music, and much more. Available software includes sequencers, notation/scoring software, editor/librarians, auto-accompaniment programs, and synthesis/sampling. With the help of this software, you can take full advantage of MIDI information.

So now you know the ins and outs of MIDI technology, let’s move on to our main topic, the MIDI keyboard. A MIDI keyboard is an electric piano lookalike interface keyboard device that is used to send MIDI signals to other devices through USB or a MIDI cable. This device could be a personal computer running a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) that interprets the MIDI signals and sends them to other MIDI devices connected by cable or running inside the computer. Essentially, a typical MIDI keyboard doesn't produce sounds itself, but rather transfers the MIDI information to an electronic module which is capable of reproducing an array of digital sounds that resemble an analog keyboard.

There are various types of MIDI keyboard beyond the piano-style user interface. Many MIDI keyboard controllers have pads or buttons for sending MIDI signals. They also have a built-in sensing capability for varying volumes of sound.

The Tonal Plexus keyboard provides up to 1266 different possible tonal pitches in the TPX6 1266 keys. Another MIDI keyboard is based on a fretless-type keyboard interface, which enables portamento-style note changes during play.

In the MIDI protocol, MIDI value is mapped to a specific instrument sample by an encoding scheme. Other sound parameters like aftertouch, pitch, etc. are included in this protocol scheme. The keyboard acts as a handler of sound modules and other MIDI devices, including the sound edited by DAWs.

MIDI keyboards are common instruments in recording studios around the world. Many high-end MIDI keyboards have extra sets of rotary knobs and buttons to send custom MIDI information to an analog synthesizer , sampler or DAWs . Extra features include rhythm input, transport control, and instrument selection. Similarly, MIDI keyboards also include an input for a footswitch, input for a foot expression controller, semi or full-weighted keys, and aftertouch capability. Modern MIDI keyboards are equipped to be directly connected to computers via a USB connection.

MIDI keyboards come in a wide range of sizes, from 25 keys to a full length of 88 keys.

From MIDI technology to MIDI keyboards, you should now have all the information you need to pick up the best MIDI keyboard. We’ll be concluding our article with our three best products for every price range. So let’s get straight into it!

Impulse 25 USB MIDI Controller

This MIDI keyboard is an ultra-responsive, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch impulse. It’s designed to give a professional instrument to feel rather than a mere computer accessory. It's pinpoint accurate, which means it can translate musical expressions extremely well.

It includes a full DAW/Plug-In control surface with 8 knobs, 9 faders and buttons, and a custom LCD screen. The Impulse gives you hands-on control. It's compatible with major DAWs and plug-ins engineered for instant mixing, transport control, and plug-in instruments and effects.

Along with the hardware side, Novation has worked with major music software manufacturers to ensure instant hands-on control. Software’ like Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Automap 4 are specially designed for allowing you to have full control of third-party instruments and effects.

It’s frustrating to learn knob, fader, and button controls. Impulse is packed with Automap control software so you can easily find controls and take complete advantage of everything they offer. This MIDI keyboard also has eight quality-feel drum pads which are velocity-sensitive and equipped with aftertouch. The drum pads are backlit with 3-color LEDs which means that they can warp arpeggios in real time, roll beats, and launch clips in Ableton Live.

This keyboard is powered by USB and contains expressions along with the sustain pedal inputs. MIDI in and out ports are also available for connecting external MIDI instruments.

With a major DAW support, precision keyboard, and multi-function drum pads the Impulse MIDI keyboard by Novation has really got your back!

Arturia KeyLab Hammer

Allow us to show you the beast itself: the KeyLab 88 MIDI/USB Hammer-Action Hybrid Keyboard Controller by Arturia . On the outside, it has gorgeous wood trim on the sides which gives it a classic look. This product gives you tons of hands-on control. Likewise, it includes 13 encoders, 16 pads, and 9 sliders, so you can get every precise detail down in your compositions. It has velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch.

This includes an analog lab with 5000 synth sounds. All presets are handpicked from Arturia's classic synths.

With 5000 synth sounds, 16 pads, and an analog lab software, the sky's the limit.

MPK249 by Akai Professional

The Akai Professional MPK249 is engineered for combining software integration, enhanced workflow and core technologies from its previous MPC workstations. It’s optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC with USB powered plug-and-play connectivity.

The keyboard is equipped with 49 semi-weighted full-size keys and a premium piano-style key bed for giving you a natural yet responsive feel. Each and every key is velocity-sensitive with aftertouch for dynamic yet expressive recordings.

With this keyboard, composers can absorb genuine MPC workflow into their work. It’s easy to build sequences by using MPC-style pads, thanks to the MPC Note Repeat and 16 Levels. MPC Swing lets you control the tight organic groove that makes MPCs so worthwhile.

MPK249 is loaded with powerful software, in this case, Ableton Live Lite and MPC Essentials. Ableton provides musicians the tools to compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit ideas.

On the whole, this keyboard provides you with 16 RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads with 4 banks for 64 pads, 24 assignable Q-Link controller which includes knobs, switches, and faders. It also has detailed transport and parameter controls for hands-on DAW integration. It even has one assignable footswitch jack and one expression jack. It features USB-MIDI with 5-pin MIDI input and output. Finally, it's iOS compatible thanks to the Apple iPad camera connection which is sold separately.

If you are looking for genuine MPC functionality, the best DAW software support, plus velocity-sensitive keys, then this keyboard offers the best for its price.

We've seen quite a lot of advancement in the world thanks to technology. The impact of technology on music is obvious in modern music. From electric guitars to drum machines, and of course, MIDI keyboards, the presence of technology in music is everywhere.

What is a MIDI keyboard? Well, the answer is a pretty simple: a keyboard device that has the capability of sending MIDI signals to some other devices, as long as the devices share the same MIDI protocol interface. A MIDI keyboard transfer signals through a MIDI cable or a USB.

Not all MIDI keyboards use the piano-style interface. Some come equipped with pads or buttons that have the ability to transfer MIDI signals. Most of these pads are velocity-sensitive to get different sounds from the keyboard. If you're a big fan of portamento-style, the MIDI keyboard for you is a fretless-type, known as the Continuum Fingerboard, which will enable you to change notes at will.

Another type of MIDI controller that does not use a piano-style user interface is known as a microtonal MIDI controller. The most common example of it is a Tonal Plexus Keyboard. This keyboard has the capability of providing up to 1266 different tonal pitches.

When shopping around for a product, there are some questions you have to ask yourself before purchasing it. The same is true of MIDI keyboards. Before buying a MIDI keyboard, be sure to do your homework. Figure out what features you need to avoid buying a MIDI keyboard that may have a high price tag attached to it but isn't right for you.

Here are the things to consider before you run out to pick up a MIDI keyboard.

When choosing a MIDI keyboard, you'll quickly discover that the prices can range from $80 to $500 and even more. So ask yourself how much are you looking to spend then be sure to stick to your budget.

The Key Count

This is completely down to personal preference.  MIDI keyboards are available in many different key counts, and it's good to know what their applications are. Key counts vary from 25, 32, 37, 49, 61 to 88. Some people may prefer the original or traditional piano and might opt for an 88 key MIDI keyboard since the traditional piano has the same number of keys. On the other hand, some people might do a lot of traveling, so a smaller keyboard with 25, 33 or 37 keys are better suited to their lifestyles.

There are three different types of key actions which all serve different purposes. The three different key action types of a MIDI keyboard are discussed below.

Synth Action

This is the most common key action found in most MIDI keyboards. The synth-action keys use a spring and are made up of plastic. There is no weight attached to the keys of a synth-action MIDI keyboard, but when you press or release a key, it returns to its original position with the help of a spring,  making it pretty fast.

Semi-weighted

As the name suggests, the keys of a semi-weighted key action MIDI keyboard use a lightweight attached to the end of every key. In this case, the keys aren't made of plastic. The semi-weighted key action keyboards are not as fast as the synth action, but give you a slightly more realistic feel that is somewhat close to a traditional piano.

Fully-weighted

Fully-weighted key action keyboards are as close as you can get to the keys of a traditional piano. The fully-weighted key action type is mostly found in digital pianos. The feeling you get from them isn't the exact same as that of a real traditional piano, but it's fairly close. The fully-weighted action type is less common in MIDI keyboards, but some MIDI keyboards with a high price tag come equipped with them.

Portability

Do you want a keyboard for studio use or will you and your new keyboard be traveling to gigs regularly? If this is the case, you'll want a portable keyboard. As mentioned earlier, there are MIDI keyboards that come in compact sizes and easier to travel with. The smaller the keyboard, the more portable it is.

Do you want other sounds from your keyboard beyond the standard piano sounds? There are MIDI keyboards on the market that come with drum pads, so if you are looking to compose some beats on your MIDI keyboard, these are the ones to go for.

The Extra Features

There are some MIDI keyboards that come equipped with extra features such as faders, buttons, knobs, arpeggiators, and more. These features fall into the category of performance control. The most noticeable thing about keyboards with these features is that the more features a keyboard has, the higher the price. It's essential to determine what features will be useful to you and then go for the appropriate MIDI keyboard.

Different MIDI keyboards are designed to suit the requirement of different levels of playing i.e. beginner, intermediate, and professional. We'll briefly discuss some of the best available MIDI keyboards for beginners .

M-Audio Oxygen 49

With the M-Audio Oxygen 49, you can rest assured it will both be easy to use but give you everything you need to compose and continue to learn. It comes equipped with a synth-action key type which is ideal for a beginner because of its ultra-quick response. It also has trigger pads if you want percussion sounds and comes equipped with Ableton Live Lite so you can learn and play at the same time.

Overall, the M-Audio Oxygen 49 is one of the best picks for beginner MIDI keyboards.

Akai Professional LPK25

Price is also important as a beginner looking for your first MIDI keyboard. It's best to start slow with a basic keyboard that meets all your needs but doesn't carry a hefty price tag.

The Akai Professional LPK25 is a beginner keyboard that is available for under $100 and also has all the necessary things that you could want in a beginner MIDI keyboard. It comes along with 25 mini keys that are velocity-sensitive so that you can get a more natural sound. You can connect it to your computer or Mac via USB, making your life much more simple.

Acorn Instruments Masterkey 49

For ease of use and easy installation, the Acorn Instruments Masterkey 49 is perfect Although it isn't counted among the top MIDI keyboard brands, this keyboard is one of the best there when it comes to its user-friendliness and easy installation. It features velocity-sensitive keys, pitch, and modulation wheels and plugs and plays through a USB.

The answer to this question is pretty simple. The two most important factors are the key counts and the keyboard action type. Be aware of all the different key counts available on the market and select the one which suits your needs. If you know the different types of key action and the purposes or the use for which they are designed for, you can choose the right MIDI keyboard with confidence.

If you liked this review, please leave a positive rating:

Keyboard Kraze

  • MIDI Controllers

The Best Mini MIDI Keyboard Controller 2024 – Portable Options

Mini MIDI Controller Reviews

  • January 5, 2024

Table of Contents

Today we are going to be taking an in-depth look at the best mini MIDI controllers currently available.

I have the opinion mini MIDI keyboards are great for producers to have. Their lightweight and ease of use make them appropriate for many different occasions.

Best Mini MIDI Controllers – A Quick Glance

The # of Keys on these Controllers Vary from 25 to 32 keys. The keys are smaller than normal keyboards to make them perfect for on the go production. Mini MIDI keyboards are perfect for iPhones and iPads or other tablets.

Before getting into our list, let’s grab a quick understanding of exactly what mini MIDI controllers are.

MIDI stands for  Musical Instrument Digital Interface , and it is a technology that enables musicians to launch and play sounds from their computers or laptops.

What Is A Mini MIDI Keyboard Controller?

me with the Nektar Mini and Donner Mini

The technology for MIDI has been around for 30 years and it is becoming more and more popular with the advancements in technology. 

So what is a mini MIDI controller? It is a small keyboard that allows you to send MIDI to your laptop or PC. The reason why they have become popular is that they are extremely portable and often cheap.

Mini Controller plugged into macbook

Our Top Picks

1) novation mini midi mk iii.

Novation MK III Mini

The Novation Mini is specifically built for Ableton. It's small enough to fit in your backpack, yet powerful enough to allow you to create beats on the go.

This is Novations newest controller and it’s one of my personal favorites. It comes with MIDI out, meaning that you can use it to control external synthesizers.

I find this to be awesome as a lot of pro producers could take advantage of this.

The Mini MKIII is the perfect keyboard for beginners and it also works great for advanced players as well.

Overall Thoughts

The Novation Mini MK III is easily one of the best mini MIDI keyboards on the market. This thing is great all around, coming locked and loaded with 16 pads and the ability to control a hardware synthesizer.

2) Akai MPK Mini MK 3

Akai Mini MK3

The Akai Mini MK3 is a premiere mini controller that is one of the most popular controllers sold. I think it's a great option and I highly recommend it.

The MK3 has a underwent a little bit of a facelift and I think it personally is for the better. One of the notable things added to the MK3 is an LCD interface which allows you to see the parameters and patches you are working on.

The joystick is also something that feels a little bit thicker than its predecessor. This is definitely an improvement as the joystick on the Mini 2 wasn’t all that great.

You will notice that the MPK Mini MK3 has a slimmer design with sharper edges coming in at a weight of just 1.65 LBS.

The key-bed has been slightly tweaked on the MK3, which can only be a good thing as the Mini 2 is one of the most-selling keyboards currently on the market.

Overall, this is definitely one of the best controllers currently available. If you’re looking to instantly start making some tunes, this is a great pick.

3) Nektar LX Mini 25

Nektar Impact LX Mini 25-key Keyboard Controller

The Nektar Impact LX 25 is a mini controller powerhouse that gives producers another incredible option instead of your typical Akai Mini MK3. I highly recommend checking this keyboard out as it is great for travel sessions and quick in-studio work.

The Nektar Impact LX Mini was a major improvement from the SE series by Nektar. The key action is amazing, however, the keys do make more noise than expected. Personally, this isn’t a big deal to me as I’m recording with headphones/monitors anyways.

nektar mini lx 25

If you’re not a fan of the Akai Mini or the Novation, the Nektar Impact is worth a look as it offers everything you get out of those, with some great action.

4) Donner 25- Pro

Donner DMK-25 PRO

The Donner DMK-25 Pro Mini hits the market and greatly surprises. This controller brings you an affordable option that also gives you ultimate control. The keys, are solid for being mini and the pads are also responsive.

The last few products I’ve tested from Donner have 100% shocked me. The Pro25 delivered in ways that I did not expect. For starters, It’s extremely compact, coming in far smaller then the Nektar Mini LX 25.

The keys also didn’t make any noise upon pressing them. They accomplished this with still delivering decent key-action. Many mini controllers keys are pretty loud, so this was a nice bonus.

donner pro25

In terms of compatibility, the Donner Pro25 transport controls worked flawless with Ableton Live and I was able to lay down beats easily.

The pads were comparable as well to the others on this list, maybe a little bit more stiff.

5) Nektar SE25

Nektar SE25

The Nektar SE 25 is one of the cheapest options on the market. While it doesn't have many controls, it allows you to lay down some quick beats.

The Nektar SE25 is one of the newest mini controllers and I believe it’s fantastic.

This controller is extremely affordable and it comes in at just .88 pounds.

You can read my full re view on the Nektar SE25 here.

My overall thoughts on the Nektar SE25 are that it’s perfect for beginners. It doesn’t have a ton of controls on it, so it can be limiting for those who are professionals.

6) Akai Professional LPK25 WIRELESS 

Akai Professional LPK25

The Professional LPK25 is a bluetooth mini controller that I believe is fantastic. It's extremely lightweight and allows you to make beats on the fly.

The Akai Professional LPK25 Wireless is the first wireless MIDI keyboard controller. This is a unique product as wireless is becoming very popular.

It is powered by 3 AA batteries for up to 12 hours or by a USB cable. The keys are velocity-sensitive and are synth-action.

This wireless keyboard controller comes with Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity and has a pairing button on the base of the instrument. The Akai Professional LPK25 comes with octave, and sustain buttons. It also has an arpeggiator, like most other products.

There aren’t any pads or knobs on this wireless product, but if you’re not looking to make beats or get crazy transport controls, you will be fine. Another plus on this keyboard is it extremely light coming in at .08 pounds.

This is the best wireless controller currently on the market. It’s not buggy and gets the job done perfectly.

7) Instruments Komplete Kontrol 32 Micro

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol Micro

The Komplete Kontrol Micro 32 comes fully packed with instruments from Native Instruments. The capabilities this provides with U-HE and Native instruments are unmatched for this price and size.

Native Instruments made a solid keyboard with the Kontrol 32 Micro.

It’s not flashy, but it does everything you want it to do and more.

It is ultra-portable and light-weight and one of my favorite features it has is Smart Play.

I recently did a full review of the Kontrol 32 Micro here . Check out my thoughts.

With the Kontrol 32, you are getting a great product, but it definitely has some limitations. Overall, still a great option.

8) IK Multimedia iRig Keys MINI2 25

IK Multimedia iRig Keys MINI 25

The Irig 2 is the newest IK Media controller weighing in at 1.3 lbs. It's perfect for on the-go and is also compatible with all cellphones.

The iRig MINI2 is made by Apple and it is unique in the sense that it works with basically any device. You can hook this device up to your iPhone, Android, tablet, and PC or Mac.

As far as being portable, this is probably the most portable controller on the market seeing how it only weighs .9 pounds. It comes with lightning, USB and micro-USB cables.

If you want something to use as your secondary controller for days when you might be on vacation, at school or just on the go, this is a great choice. This controller is definitely very basic as far as controls and what you can do with it.

My overall thoughts are that the Irig is a great option for the price. I love how functional it is with tablets and cellphones. They also make this in the size of 37 keys.

9) M-Audio Oxygen Pro 32

M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini 32-Mini

The Oxygen Pro Mini is actually one of my favorite picks on this list. The reason why I don't have it higher is that you will need Pro Tools or Studio One full versions to be able to take advantage of all of the controls.

M-Audio has put together a great product with the Axiom Oxygen Pro Mini. It comes with 32 velocity-sensitive keys and VIP 3.0. This software is great because it gives musicians so much control with their keyboards.

The M-Audio Air Mini comes with three transport controls, 5 navigation buttons, and 8 pads for maximum control. There are dedicated pitch, modulation and sustain buttons on this device.

This is unique because you typically don’t see pitch and modulation controls being buttons, rather being wheels or strips.

Overall, this keyboard has 32 keys rather than 25, so that’s a plus, however, I don’t put this on the same level with Novation and Akai.

10) Akai Professional LPK25

AKAI Professional LPK25 - USB MIDI Keyboard controller with 25 Velocity-Sensitive Synth Action Keys for Laptops (Mac & PC), Editing Software included,MultiColored

The LPK 25 is the oldest option on this list. It's extremely budget, but it's not on the level as the top options on my list.

The Akai LPK 25 is the classic keyboard as it was one of the first compact controllers.

This doesn’t come with as many bells and whistles as some of the other products mentioned, but for basic functions, it will get the job done.

It is extremely portable coming in at 1.4 pounds. Its keys are velocity-sensitive and it might feel a little bit on the cheaper side compared to the MPK series.

Overall, I think this is a bit dated and wouldn’t recommend it anymore .

Is A Mini MIDI Controller A Good Investment For A New Producer?

I would say absolutely. It allows you the freedom to play notes, play beats and control MIDI. This also makes it so you’re not spending a fortune right off the bat.

If you like what your keyboard does for you, but feel a little limited and want to dive deeper, you can upgrade to a 49 key MIDI controller. If you’re a producer who’s on the go, check out our guide on the best Bluetooth MIDI controller .

Why Would Someone Be Interested In These?

Mini MIDI keyboards are not just for touring musicians, they can also be used in the studio and even for live shows. These are very affordable and they serve a variety of purposes.

If you’re someone who doesn’t really play the piano, a small controller would be a smart purchase seeing how the keys are smaller.

Something many people refer to these instruments to is a keyboard beat maker. This is because they are used by so many music producers to make beats.

If you’re someone who is going off to college, it would also be a wise purchase. It is crazy how powerful, yet portable these are.

Just in the last couple of years, the advancement has been pretty remarkable in the MIDI controller realm and the MPK mini and the Novation LaunchKey mini are two of the best purchases you can make.

The best keyboard for making beats is going to be a device that has drum pads as well as control parameters. You can read more about making beats at the link above where I break down my favorite products for beats.

What’s The Difference Between Mini MIDI Controllers And Normal MIDI Controllers?

The biggest difference between Mini keyboards and normal MIDI controllers is weight and the number of keys. Mini keyboards are built to be extremely portable while still being as durable as they can be.

Compact keyboards typically come with 25, 32 or 37 keys and the keys are smaller than a normal controller. With a small MIDI keyboard, the musician typically isn’t looking for expressive playing so this isn’t a problem.

Both Akai and LaunchKey are the standard and we think both of these products are quality. We are also going to highlight a few other compact instruments that we like as well. We hope that you find this review helpful and learn from this post.

Things To Consider When Buying

What are you going to be using your keyboard for .

If you are going to be using your instrument for beats or launching clips, you’re going to want to buy one with pads. I recommend a one with pads and knobs because there’s a lot more you can do with them to learn on.

What Kind Of Software Is Included? 

Most of these come with software and it’s important to know what kind of software they come with. We will highlight this for each of the products below.

If you are looking into portable compact MIDI controllers you want to know how much each of them weighs in case you are looking to take it with you and set up make-shift studios on the go.

Most of the products we’re looking at are going to have synth-action keys. For players who don’t play piano, this will probably be preferred since they’re easier to press down. They also won’t be as durable, but these aren’t meant to be played super hard anyway.

Sustain Pedal Input:

Sustain pedal inputs are important if you want manually sustain notes while recording.

What Kind Of Keys Will My Mini Keyboard Controller have?

The keys on your instrument will be synth-action keys. These are cheaper feeling keys and they are not weighted. None of the keys will be weighted. This is because the keys are very small on these types of controllers.

The keys are so small that there would be no purpose in having weighted keys. Weighted keys would also increase the weight of the keyboards and the purpose of these is to be portable and light.

As far as being as durable as a normal size keyboard, they are not .

As far as playing the keys, the keys will be durable, but I don’t recommend hammering the keys like you’re playing a real piano.

You don’t want to break a key because you’re trying to play it too hard.

They do not typically have aftertouch and this is a feature that is important to some musicians. This is pressure-sensitivity for after your press the keys down.

It registers how hard you’re holding the keys down and it can make your keyboard use vibrato or other effects. Aftertouch is something you don’t need, but once you play a MIDI keyboard with aftertouch, you will want one with aftertouch.

Our pick is the Novation Mini MK3 , but we know that any of these keyboards is great for its purpose.

If you’re picking solely on price, go with the Novation because it will typically be a little bit cheaper.

If portability is what you are looking for, I recommend checking out my favorite keyboard amps. These are great options for traveling .

If you enjoyed this article and found what you are looking for, let me know in the comments below!

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Chris Senner

Chris Senner is a passionate keyboardist, songwriter & blogger from Milwaukee, WI. He's toured the country with Vinyl Theatre & now has developed a passion for writing about all things keyboards.

I am looking for the narrowest mini keyboard, not the shortest. My shortest would be a 37 board if there was one with its lowest key as a F. With that the 37 keys cover the bass and treble staves of the normal piano. Failing that I could use a 49 keyboard not wider than 175mm. The only one I’ve found so far is the Korg microkey 49.. Are there any others?

What about the Alesis Q-Mini?

I’m so excited for the new mini MIDI controllers coming out in 2022! I can’t wait to try them all out!

I am confused… Nowhere else have I seen that the oxygen pro mini needs pro tools of studio one for full use of its controls. In fact Ableton Live Lite is included in the software package. What??

I’ve spoken with several people who have mentioned compatibility issues depending on which DAW is used. I didn’t have any issues, but I used it with Pro Tools.

Kind regards,

I just bought the Donner and it shocked me with how good it is. Your list is the first one to include Donner. It’s nice to see that you actually own all of these keyboards! Holy crap haha.

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50 Best MIDI Keyboards and Controllers In The World Today

50 Best MIDI Keyboards and Controllers In The World Today

This is lesson is step 2 / 9 of a LANDR Lesson Plan. Click here to start from the beginning or simply just keep on reading.

A MIDI keyboard controller is an essential piece of music gear in today’s home studio .

A piano melody here, a beat there… Having both the physical touch of a keyboard and the editing freedom of MIDI is a blessing in music production.

Getting the best MIDI controller for your creative needs will take your DAW software to new heights. Playing a soft synth with a MIDI keyboard is pretty much like playing the real thing – for a fraction of the price.

What is a MIDI keyboard controller?

A MIDI keyboard controller is a physical interface that allows you to control sounds or functions from devices that work with MIDI. Those include your DAW, VST plugins, and other synths.

MIDI is the language that allows electronic music instruments and computers to communicate and connect. It sends information about what notes you play and how you play them.

How to choose a MIDI controller

But there’s so many controllers out there. Which one should you choose?

To help you find the best fit I prepared an eight-step checklist to help you find the controller that’s best for you. Download it now:

The 50 Best MIDI controllers

Time for the fun part: choosing the best MIDI controller for you. I’ve organized them in categories to help you find what you need quickly.

Prices may vary. You can buy them on  Amazon or Sweetwater . You can also find used MIDI controllers for a great price.

Budget all-in-one MIDI controllers

These controllers have a mix of keys, knobs, faders and pads. Plus they won’t hurt your wallet. Are you choosing your first MIDI keyboard controller? Or you don’t wanna spend too much and still get a complete controller? This section is for you.

Here are the best MIDI keyboards under $200 USD :

https://blog.landr.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2018-alesis_V25.jpg

Price: $90 USD

This functional and effective controller has a sleek design and a lot of great features. It’s compact and inexpensive too!

Why we love it : Straightforward and easy to use yet still powerful.

Key features :

  • 25 Keys (Synth-Action)
  • 8 Backlit Pads
  • 4 Assignable Knobs
  • 4 Assignable Buttons
  • 2 Wheels (Pitch Bend, Modulation)
  • 1 Pedal Input
  • Software or DAW included: Xpand!2 and Ableton Live Lite
  • DAW Integration: all the major ones

https://blog.landr.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/1.2-minilab-image.jpg

Arturia MiniLab

Price: $100 USD

The MiniLab looks awesome. The wood panel is inspired by analog synths. It comes with great sounds: 5000 Analog Lab soft synth presets from Arturia’s Modular V, Arp 2600V, Jupiter 8V and others. The build quality overall is great.

Why we love it : The beauty of the look and feel. Quality presets. Lots of control for its compact size.

  • 25 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Shift and more
  • 2 Touchstrips (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
  • Software or DAW included: Arturia’s  Analog Lab
  • DAW Integration: all, connects to iOS (separate kit required)

1.3-V49_Ortho_RGB

Price: $130 USD

The design is sleek and uncluttered. The placement of the pads it very clever: they’re conveniently located on the left beside the keyboard. This allows you to tap pads with your left hand while playing keys with your right. You won’t have to reach over the keyboard awkwardly when performing.

Why we love it : it’s a cleverly designed all-in-one MIDI keyboard. It’s well priced for a full-sized 49 keys. Your bread and butter controller.

  • 49 keys (Synth-Action)
  • 2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
  • 1 pedal input
  • Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
  • DAW integration: all major ones

M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV

https://blog.landr.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2018-m-audio-oxygen25_.jpg

Price: $120 USD

This is a simple but powerful MIDI controller that’s good for beginners and travellers. All the key features for modern DAW production are included.

Why we love it : Great price for a full-featured unit from a respected manufacturer.

  • Assignable Buttons
  • Dedicated DAW Transport Control
  • 2 Wheels (Pitch bend + Modulation)
  • 2 Pedal Inputs
  • DAW Integration: all major ones

1.5-APCKey25_ortho_web_lg_700x438

Akai APC Key 25

The power of this small keyboard controller is the amount of pads it has: 40. It was specifically designed for  Ableton Live . The pads trigger various clips in Ableton’s Session View. It’s very portable and comes with a bunch of software bundles.

Why we love it : It’s a fantastic pair for Ableton users or for those of you who love pads (all of you beatmakers!)

  • 40 backlit Pads
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Play, Pause and more
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist, and Toolroom artist launch packs
  • Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
  • DAW Integration: all major DAWs, optimized for Ableton Live

1.6-Korg-nanoKEY-Studio

Korg NanoKEY Studio

Price: $150 USD

The NanoKEY Studio is a powerful one. It’s got bluetooth connectivity. There’s a Kaoss -inspired X-Y Pad – awesome for tweaking effects. Unique feature: the Scale Guide function. Notes in a given scale light up to guide you when you play. You can either put two AAA batteries or connect it via USB for power.

If you like this concept but need faders instead of keys, look at the NanoKONTROL Studio from the same line.

Why we love it : This one has got all of the latest MIDI controller features for 150 USD: bluetooth connectivity, scale guide, X-Y pad and more. It’s definitely a favourite.

  • 25 Keys (Velocity-sensitive Keypads)
  • Dedicated buttons: Octave Up/Down, Arpeggiator, Scale Guide and more
  • Connects with Bluetooth or USB
  • Software or DAW included included: code for KORG Software Bundle
  • DAW Integration: all

1.7-nektar_impact_lx49_03

Nektar Impact LX49

Price: $160 usd.

This controller has as a useful mixer section with lots of faders. It also has knobs and pads. You can save 5 presets. It’s designed to have plug-and-play integration with most major DAWs, except Ableton Live. Ableton users will need to download a Live Remote Script file.

Why we love it : great price that includes a mixer section and banks of settings.

  • 49 Keys (Synth-Action)
  • 9 Assignable Buttons
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Transpose, Play, Stop, Record and more
  • Software or DAW included: Studio One Artist
  • DAW Integration: Pre-mapped DAW Configurations for Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Digital Performer, Garageband, Logic Pro, Nuendo, Reason, SONAR, Studio One, FL Studio, and Reaper.

1.8-Oxygen49_top_media_00

M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK IV Price: $170 USD

The mixer section makes it great for both production and performance. It automatically maps with all major DAWs, including Ableton Live. It can also be connected to iOS devices (separate connection kit required).

Why we love it : it’s one of the most complete MIDI keyboard controllers under 200 USD. It’s got faders, knobs and pads and works with all DAWs.

  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2
  • DAW Integration: Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Propellerhead Reason, Steinberg Cubase, Logic Pro X, and GarageBand. Connects to iOS (separate kit required).

Piano Keys Only

This selection is for digital pianos with MIDI. Or for those who like to play with two hands. These MIDI keyboard have more keys – 61 or 88 – and a better feel. If you don’t need any extra features (pads and faders) these are for you.

Price range: $100-1850 USD .

2.1-Acorn-Masterkey-61

Acorn Instruments MasterKey 61

You get a full 61 keys for 100 USD. It’s USB powered and gets you playing keys on a budget. This as a great way to play VST synths while using your mouse to tweak knobs.

Unlimited mastering & distribution, 1200 royalty-free samples, 30+ plugins and more! <a href="https://join.landr.com/landr-studio/?utm_campaign=acquisition_platform_en_us_studio-generic-new-blog-ad&utm_medium=organic_post&utm_source=blog&utm_content=left-hand-generic-ad&utm_term=general">Get everything LANDR has to offer with LANDR Studio.</a>

Unlimited mastering & distribution, 1200 royalty-free samples, 30+ plugins and more! Get everything LANDR has to offer with LANDR Studio.

Why we love it : Lots of keys for your money. A simple and effective budget keyboard controller.

  • 61 Keys (Synth-Action)
  • 1 Volume fader
  • Software or DAW included: Presonus Studio One Artist
  • Other versions: 25 keys, 49 keys

2.2-Maudio-KS61_top_media_8x10

M-Audio Keystation 61 

Price: $200 USD

For a great price you get 61 keys that feel good to play (they’re semi-weighted). It can be powered either through USB or a power supply (sold separately). It’s a good studio or performance tool for playing keys with two-hands.

Why we love it : simple and no fuss. Comes with a good software bundle.

  • 61 Keys (Semi-Weighted)
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop, and more
  • Other versions: 32 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys

2.3-alesis-q88

I thought I’d please the piano players out there. This controller has as many keys as a real piano. No compromises there. The keys are semi-weighted and feel good. You can power it with only USB, no power supply needed.

Why we love it : it’s a full-size 88 key MIDI keyboard for 200 USD.

  • 88 Keys (Semi-Weighted)
  • 1 Volume Fader
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2

2.4-Kawai-VPC1-Virtual-Piano-Controller

Kawai VPC1 Virtual Piano Controller

Price: $1850 USD

Ok this isn’t cheap. But a fully weighted MIDI keyboard usually isn’t. There are 88 wooden keys that feel much like a grand piano. This controller can be powered with a USB cable only! Kawai are acoustic piano makers – it’s very high quality. It has MIDI in and out so you can play synth modules with it. It also comes with well-built piano pedals to plug into your keyboard.

Why we love i t: it’s simply the best fully weighted MIDI keyboard.

  • 88 Keys (Fully-Weighted)
  • MIDI in/out
  • Comes with Grand Piano Pedals (Damper, Sostenuto and Soft)
  • Software or DAW included: VPC Editor
  • DAW Integration: does not map automatically, must be manually mapped.

Ultra Compact and Portable

This is the section for small MIDI keyboard controllers. Perfect for making music while traveling or if you have limited studio space. Keep in mind that keys on mini MIDI controllers are quite small. Looking for the best 25 key MIDI controller? Or even 32 and 37 keys? Here they are:

Price range: $70- 180 USD

3.1-akai-lpk25_web_large_700x438

Price: $70 USD

This ultra-compact MIDI keyboard has four programmable memory banks. Other key features it has: arpeggiator, sustain, octave up, octave down, and tap tempo.

Why we love it : the arpeggiator and sustain buttons make it very fun to create endless note patterns.

  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Arpeggiator, Sustain and Tap Tempo
  • Other versions: 49 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
  • Software or DAW included: Ignite

3.3Alesis-Vmini_Ortho_RGB

Alesis V Mini

Price: $80 USD

If you like the Alesis V series : this is the compact version. It’s got the same sleek look and illuminated buttons. It’s also well-priced for a mini MIDI keyboard that has knobs and buttons too.

Why we love it : great design and great price for keys, knobs and pads.

  • 25 keys (Mini Synth-Action)
  • Dedicated buttons: Octave Up/Down, Pitch Bend, Sustain, Modulation
  • Software or DAW included: Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech
  • DAW integration: all

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32

3.2-B_MAUDIO_keystationmini32

Unlike most ultra-compact MIDI keyboard controllers, it has 32 keys and not 25. You get a little bit more. It’s the perfect companion to producing with you DAW on the road (on that 12 hour flight!)

Why we love it : it went just a little further than others giving you 32 instead of 25 keys. That one programmable knob can come in handy.

  • 32 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Sustain, Pitch Bend, Modulation, and more.
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2. Connects to iOS (separate kit required)

Akai MPK Mini Mk II

3.4-Akai-MPKmini_ortho_web_lg_700x438

Don’t underestimate this little one. It’s currently #1 Best Seller in Computer Recording Equipment on Amazon. It has a knobs and pads. It’s super compact. What’s unique about it the 4-way thumbstick for pitch-bend and modulation.

Why we love it : It’s a super compact and packs lots of features (knobs, pads, joystick) for a very cheap price.

  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave up/down, Tap Tempo, and more
  • 1 Thumbstick (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
  • Software or DAW included: Tracktion

MicroKEY-2 Air

3.5-korg-micro-key

Bluetooth connectivity is the unique feature of this MIDI keyboard. It comes with a bundle of iOS and computer software (Mac/PC). Are we getting closer to the dream of having a wireless studio? Maybe not, but the MicroKEY-2 Air is a little step in that direction.

Why we love it : it lets you connect your keyboard with bluetooth. It comes with loads of MIDI keyboard software. Great for iPad.

  • 25 Keys (Korg’s Natural Touch Mini Keys)
  • Dedicated: Octave Up/Down
  • 1 Joystick for Pitch-Bend + Modulation
  • Other versions: 37 keys, 49 keys, 61 keys
  • Software or DAW included: KORG Gadget,KORG Module, KORG Legacy Collection M1, UVI Digital Synsations, AAS Ultra Analog Session, AAS Strum Session, AAS
  • Lounge Lizard Session, Propellerhead Reason Limited, Discount on Ableton Live.
  • DAW Integration: all major ones. Connects via Bluetooth to computers or mobile devices (batteries required) or through USB

3.6-CME-xkey

Yes the keys feel like an Apple keyboard. But they’re also velocity sensitive and have polyphonic aftertouch. Pretty cool for a paper-thin keyboard. If you like all your portable devices to match the aluminum look, this is for you. If you like the look and feel of this and want bluetooth connectivity: look into the Xkey Air .

Why we love it : it’s ultra slim and light. It’s got a lot of power for something so thin. Very good as an iPad MIDI keyboard.

  • 25 Keys (full-sized keys, computer keyboard style)
  • Dedicated Butons: Octave Up/Down and more
  • Pitchbend, Modulation, Sustain
  • Other versions: 37 keys
  • Software or DAW included included: download the free Xkey Plus app to customize your keyboard

3.7-NOV-LP-Mini_1

Novation Launchpad Mini

This mini grid MIDI controller is a great travel buddy or for small studio spaces. It’s designed for Ableton Live – if you don’t already have it you get a light version. Use it either to trigger clips or even as a mixer.

Why we love it : it’s a compact grid controller that doubles as a mixer.

  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station VST, 1GB of samples
  • DAW integration: all, total integration with Ableton Live, FL Studio and Novation’s Launchpad iOS app. Connects with iOS (separate connection kit required)

3.8-NOV-LK-Mini-product_1

Novation Launchkey Mini 25

This is your portable all-in-one Ableton music production controller. It has a bit of everything and is conceived for seamless integration with Ableton Live. It’s got a wide range of possible functions for you to decide.

Why we love it : Packs a lot of functionality and comes with software and soft synth bundles. Good as an iOS MIDI keyboard controller.

  • 25 keys (mini Synth Action)
  • Dedicated buttons: Octave Up/Down, Track and more
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station VST, V Station VST, 1GB of samples
  • DAW integration: all, total integration with Ableton Live, FL Studio and Novation’s Launchpad iOS app. Works with iPad (requires a separate connection kit)

3.9-axiom-mini32

M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32

This is an easy plug-and-play mini MIDI keyboard. It allows you to customize your setup from the keyboard – no editing software required. It’s got 32 keys in the same style at the M-Audio Keystation with added knobs and pads.

Why we love it : easy integration with all major DAWs and added controls.

  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Pitch Bend, Modulation, Sustain and more
  • Software or DAW included included: Ignite
  • DAW integration: all, ‘Hypercontrol’ automatic-mapping technology

3.10-Arturia-keystep-image

Arturia KeyStep

Unique feature: this controller is also a 64-step polyphonic MIDI sequencer. Another major benefit is the variety of connections: MIDI in/out, CV/Gate, DIN Sync, and Sync. This means that you can use it to play or sequence vintage analog synths.

Why we love it : an excellent choice for playing live. Lots of connection options: it’s ideal for those who want to connect old and new gear. And it’s also a sequencer! A definite favourite.

  • 32 keys (Synth Action Slimkeys with Aftertouch)
  • Dedicated knobs:  Seq/Arp Mode, Time Div, Rate
  • Dedicated buttons: Rec, Play, Stop, Tap, Octave Up/Down, Sustain
  • 1 mode Switch: Arpeggiator or Sequencer

IK Multimedia – iRig Keys

3.11-ik-multimedia-irig-keys

iOS music makers: this is for you! This ultra-compact MIDI keyboard comes with connectors for PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch. You can save and recall customized setups from an app or DAW. It also has an interesting number of keys (37), more than most mini controllers.

Why we love it : it connects directly into iOS devices or computers (Mac/PC). It’s the best MIDI keyboard for iPad.

  • 37 Keys (Mini Synth-action)
  • 1 Volume Knob
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Set, Program Up/Down
  • Software or DAW included included: IK’s SampleTank iOS app, SampleTank 2 L for Mac/PC

3.12-qunexus-white-1

Keith McMillen QuNexus

Price: $180 USD

The top advantage of this slim MIDI controller is the quality of the keys. The are equipped with Smart Sensor technology which detects pressure, velocity and location of the finger. It has polyphonic aftertouch. A major plus is the capacity to connect pretty much everything with it: MIDI (via optional MIDI Expander), CV, OSC, and USB. Keith McMillen is also known for extremely durable designs. They say you can spill water or run it over with a car and it’ll still work.

What we love : the durability, great design and connectivity. It’s got Smart Sensing keys that detects various kinds of human gestures.

  • 25 keys (with Smart Sensor and aftertouch)
  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Record, Play, Bend and more
  • Pitch Bend pad
  • Software or DAW included: QuNexus Editor, QuNexus OSC Bridge, QuNexus Ableton Live Sets (all downloadable online)

Controllers of this range are complete and have semi-weighted keys for a better feel when playing. They’re well built and most have everything you need: pads, knobs, faders and buttons. These also feature Aftertouch : data about how much pressure you apply on the key you press. It can allow for creative uses of vibrato and volumes variations. If you’re willing to spend a little more for better quality: one of these MIDI keyboard controllers is your next buy.

Price range: $200-500 USD

4.1-korg-Triton-Tactile25

Korg Triton Taktile 25

There are two unique composition functions in this MIDI keyboard. ‘Chord Scale’ automatically triggers chords according to the key and scale you choose. This makes songwriting infinitely more intuitive and quick. ‘Touch Scale’ helps you generate melodies using the touch pad. The Triton is also a standalone synth with 512 preset sounds. Plug and play!

Why we love i t: it makes songwriting much easier with the Touch Scale and Chord Scale functions.

  • 25 keys (Semi-Weighted)
  • Dedicated Buttons for Play, Stop, Octave Up/Down & more
  • 2 Wheels (Pitch Bend, Modulation)
  • Software or DAW included:  KORG KONTROL Editor, Korg Legacy Collection

4.2-NOV-LK-RGBS_0

Novation Launchkey MK2

The workflow of the Launchkey is designed specifically for Ableton Live (but it will map with any major DAW). It’s got a lot of faders for mixing and playing live. It’s a great controller at a decent price.

Why we love it : a great all-in-one Ableton Live MIDI keyboard for a good price.

  • Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Record, Play and more
  • Software or DAW included included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V-Station virtual instruments and 1 GB of Loopmasters samples.
  • DAW Integration: all, designed for Ableton Live

4.3-Alesis-VI49_Overview_1

Alesis VI 49

Price: $230 USD

Like the Alesis V series, the pads are conveniently located on the left beside the keyboard. You can use pads with your left hand while your play keys with your right. The unique feature of this controller is the quantity of assignable buttons: 36.

Why we love it : sleek clever design and lots of buttons.

  • 49 keys (Semi-weighted with Aftertouch)
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech

4.4-NOV-Impulse-49-overhead

Novation Impulse

Price: $270 USD

The keys on this one are full size and semi-weighted – they feel great. Unique feature: the ‘roll’ button for creative drum pattern programming. Attack Magazine says it’s “one of the best MIDI controllers on the market.” The pads are backlit and have aftertouch.

Why we love it : we’ll agree with Attack Mag and say it’s one of the best out there. Especially good for drum programming.

  • 49 keys (Semi-Weighted with Aftertouch)
  • Dedicated Button:Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, and more
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, Loopmasters sample library, and Mike The Drummer

4.5-MPK249_ortho_web_lg_01_700x438

Akai MPK249

This controller has both semi-weighted keys and functions from iconic Akai MPCs (including Note Repeat and MPC Swing). It has a lot of controls. It allows you to save presets.

Why we love it : a great MIDI keyboard controller with the added Akai MPC workflow.

  • 8 Assignable Buttons
  • Dedicated Buttons:Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, Latch, and more
  • Display screen
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite and Pro MPC Essentials
  • DAW Integration: all major ones, compatible with iOS (separate connection kit required) Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys

4.6-Code49_FrontOrtho_1200x750

M-Audio Code 49

Price: $275 USD

The pads are backlit and velocity-sensitive. It’s great for playing live gigs in low light. The Code 49 has an X-Y pad for precise control over effects. Unique feature: the keyboard can split into 4 zones (even overlap them) for controlling two sounds at once.

Why we love it : the pads are great for performing or launching Ableton clips, and much more. I also love when a MIDI keyboard comes with an X-Y pad.

  • Dedicated Buttons:Octave Up/Down, for Play, Stop and more
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Technology Loom, AIR Music Technology Hybrid 3

4.12-NI-MaschineMikro

Native Instruments MASCHINE Mikro

Price: $350

This is a perfect introduction to Native Instruments’ MASCHINE beatmaking universe. It comes with 22GB of quality sounds. It can be used as a standalone production station or with a DAW. It has a sequencer, sampler and high-quality effects. You can also create complex effects with sidechaining.

Why we love : it’s a portable version of NI’s iconic MASCHINE series. Your all-in-one groovebox for beatmaking, remixing and more.

  • 16 Backlit Pads (Velocity-sensitive with Aftertouch)
  • 1 Selector Knob
  • 1 High Resolution Display
  • Dedicated Buttons: Play, Stop, Record, Erase, Solo, Duplicate and much more.
  • Software included: MASCHINE 2
  • DAW Integration: run MASCHINE as a plug-in in any DAW

4.7-SL-Mk-II-49-Overhead

Novation SL MkII

Price: $350 USD

This is what Novation’s flagship controller and it’s aimed at pros. It really has everything. The X-Y pad is great for playing with effects. The LED indicators are a nice touch.

Why we love it : it’s very complete. It’s the best MIDI keyboard for mixing and playing with effects in realtime.

  • 16 Knobs (8 of them have LED position indicators)
  • MIDI in/out/thru
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite 9,  Xcite+

Behringer MÖTOR 49

4.8behringer_MOTOR49

Price: $400 USD

Motorized faders are usually reserved for high end studio equipment. With this MIDI keyboard Behringer brings you motorized faders at an accessible price. The backlit pads are also pressure and velocity sensitive. This is definitely a step up for Behringer.

Why we love it : motorized faders for 400$! Need I say more?

Key features:

  • 49-key (Semi-Weighted)
  • 8 Knobs with LED Position Indicators
  • 9 Motorized Faders
  • Dedicated Buttons: Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, Latch, Octave Up/Down and more
  • Other versions: 61 keys

4.9-keylab49-image

Arturia KeyLab 49

Comes with the MIDI Control Center software which lets you create custom layouts. It even has an input for a thing called Breath Controller. It comes with Arturia Lab and its 5000 quality presets. Choose from two colors: white or black.

Why we love it : the Arturia preset quality. You get a lot of on-board control. A quirky unique feature: Breath Controller input.

  • Dedicated Button: Play, Stop, Octave Up/Down and more
  • MIDI in/out, Breath Control Input, Aux input
  • Software or DAW included: Analog Lab, MIDI Control Center

Akai Max 49

4.10-Akai-MAX-49

Price: $500 USD

This is a very powerful MIDI keyboard controller. It has everything. That includes CV/Gate connections – it’s a great MIDI controller for connecting computer synthesizers, MIDI modules, and vintage synths. It also has a built-in 32-step sequencer, MIDI in/out and MPC-style pads. The faders are also unique: they’re illuminated touchstrips.

Why we love it : it connects all of your gear  – from laptops to analog synths. It also has a built in sequencer.

  • 8 Touchstrip Faders
  • 32 Step Sequencer
  • Dedicated Buttons for Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, Latch, Octave Up/Down & more
  • MIDI in/out, CV out, Gate out
  • Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite Akai Pro Edition and AkaiConnect
  • DAW integration: all major ones, iOS compatibility (separate connection kit required)

4.11-Advance49_ortho_web_700x438

Akai Pro Advance 49

The backlit pads are pressure and velocity sensitive. What makes this MIDI keyboard unique is the software it comes with: Virtual Instrument Player. It allows you to switch between software instruments right from your controller – even if you’re performing without a DAW. You can also split your keyboard into zones and play various sounds.

Why we love it : it’s very playable, well-made and great for live gigs.

  • Dedicated Buttons: Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, Latch, Octave Up/Down and more
  • Software or DAW included: Akai Virtual Instrument Player, AIR Music Technology, SONiVOX, and Toolroom Records

Grids: Pads and Buttons

These MIDI controllers focus on pads and buttons. They’re made for intuitive beatmaking and sequencing. Many are designed for Ableton Live’s Session View.

Price range: $150-400 USD

5.1-Nov-2-LP-Overhead_0

Novation Launchpad

This is a grid MIDI controller for Ableton Live at a great price. It lets you trigger clips, tap beats, change levels, and perform. No need to touch your mouse because the side buttons give you lots of functionality.

Why we love it : it’s a cheap and versatile Ableton Live or FL Studio controller. Great the beatmakers!

  • 64 backlit pads
  • Software included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation V Station and Bass Station plug-ins, 1GB of Loopmasters samples
  • DAW Integration: all major ones. Best for Ableton Live and FL Studio. Also integrates with the Novation Launchpad App for iOS

5.2-BASE_front_02_highres

Livid Base II

Price: $260 USD

Livid Basse II is made and assembled in Texas. It has a rugged aluminum body and it looks awesome. It comes with a software that lets you edit button functions for any DAW. A plus: it can even be mapped for VJing.

Why we love it : Livid makes amazingly well built controllers. The touchstrips with LED indicators are a great touch.

  • 32 Pads (Velocity Sensitive)
  • 8 Touch Buttons
  • 9 Touchstrip Faders
  • Software or DAW included:  Base II Setup Guide, Base Editor

5.3-APC40mkIII_ortho_web_lg_700x438

Akai APC Mk2

Price: $300 USD

This controller is basically the Ableton Session View in physical form. If you’re not into the Push (or don’t want to spend that much), this is for you. It’s got all the controls you need for triggering clips, recording and mixing.

Why we love it : it’s great for Ableton Live lovers. Great for recording, mixing or performing live.

  • Software included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR, SONiVOX Twist, and more
  • DAW Integration: all major ones. Designed for Ableton Live.

5.4-MPCStudio_ortho_web_lg

Akai MPC Studio

It comes with a sound library with more than 9GB of sounds – including all of the classic MPC3000 ones. It’s got a 64-step sequencer. It’s both an MPC style sampler and a DAW controller. You can load VSTs and use them with your samples. It’s also compatible with older AKAI MPCs. There is also an Akai MPC Studio in black.

Why we love it : it’s a software and hardware hybrid. You can use it as a standalone MPC and as DAW controller.

  • 16 backlit pads
  • Dedicated buttons for Play, Stop, Mode select, Tap Tempo and more.
  • LCD Display
  • MIDI In/Out (with an included TRS to MIDI breakout cable)
  • Software Included: MPC Renaissance

Mixers: Faders and Knobs

These MIDI Mixers are great for producing, mixing music and tweaking effects both in the studio and on stage.

Price range: $100-600 USD

Akai MIDIMix

6.1-MIDImix_ortho_web_700x438

This is a very simple, easy and functional MIDI controller. Perfect for mixing, producing and performing. Best feature: the SEND ALL button. It instantly syncs your DAW’s settings with the controls on the MIDImix.

Why we love it : It’s an affordable and ultra-portable MIDI mixer for Ableton Live (or any DAW).

  • 29 Soft Buttons
  • Software included: Ableton Live Lite

6.2-LCXL-Overhead_2

Novation Launch Control XL

It makes a killer combo with the Novation Launchpad for full control of Ableton Live or any DAW. Cool feature: two buttons that let you switch quickly between ‘User Templates’ and ‘Factory Templates’.

Why we love it : affordable control for Ableton Live. Larger than the AKAI MIDImix.

  • 16 Soft Buttons
  • Software Included: Ableton Live Lite and 1GB of Loopmasters samples
  • DAW Integration: designed for Ableton Live. Mackie HUI integration for use with Cubase, Logic and Pro Tools. iOS compatible.

Roland MX-1

6.4-Roland-MX1

Price: $600 USD

This isn’t primarily a MIDI controller but I had to include it. It’s a hardware mixer that is also a MIDI controller for DAWs. Cool feature: effects are step-sequenced. There are DJ-style cue buttons on each channel – so you can listen to it before you bring it up. Use this to connect your synths with digital gear and your DAW. A very powerful studio and performance mixer.

Why we love it : it’s a great mixer with lots of creative control over your DAW and other hardware.

  • 18 Channels
  • Beat FX and Master FX
  • Dedicated Buttons: Play, Stop, and many more
  • MIDI in/out, Aux send/return, Jack inputs, and more
  • Software it comes with: Ableton Live Lite

This section is for the pros and those of you who want something extraordinary. We’re talking cutting edge technology and top quality. It’s also for those of you saving up for that very special MIDI controller.

Price range: $600- 1500 USD

7.1-NATIVE+1KKS49

Native Instruments KOMPLETE Kontrol S49

The keyboard was built by Fatar and it feels amazing. The KOMPLETE Kontrol gives you, well, complete control over VSTs and more. It’s very easy to browse through the tag-based preset system. Unique feature: Smart Play. It gives you an LED guide for playing the right keys in a selected scale.  Makes a flawless duo with the MASCHINE .

Why we love it : this MIDI keyboard controller is truly an elegant powerhouse. It has advanced music creation features like Smart Play. It also allows you to play VSTs like no other. A favourite here at LANDR.

  • 49 Keys (Semi-Weighted with Light Guide)
  • 2 Touchstrips
  • Dedicated buttons: Play, Stop, Record, Arpeggiator, Scale and many more
  • Software it comes with: Komplete Select bundle
  • DAW Integration: most major ones. Designed for perfect integration with Native Instrument’s Komplete VST packs.

7.4-NI-Maschine

Native Instruments MASCHINE

Ships with 8GBs of NI’s killer sounds. The MASCHINE workflow combines the fun of samplers with the power of software and VSTs. It’s an all-in-once production station for creating beats, tracks and remixes. It comes with high quality effects that you can even sidechain.

Why we love it : Native Instrument’s MASCHINE groovebox is a lot of fun. It brings together a high end sampler and a full production station.

  • 16 Backlit Pads (Velocity-Sensitive with Aftertouch)
  • 2 High Resolution Displays
  • Dedicated Buttons: Play, Stop, Record, Erase, Solo, Duplicate, Swing and much more.

6.3-livid-CNTRLr

Livid Instruments CNTRL:R

Price: $700 USD

This an incredibly well-built MIDI controller. If you’re into quality and versatility make it your next tool. It’s good for creating rhythms, sequencing and performing drums, launching clips and mixing tracks. Also great for DJs with its seamless integration to Native Instrument’s Traktor DJ software. Fun fact: it was co-designed with legendary music producer and DJ Richie Hawtin .

Why we love it : a wonderful amount of controls. Great built quality. It’s great for DJs and producers and even better for those who do both.

  • 12 Pushbutton Knobs with light indicator
  • 48 Assignable Buttons (7 Assignable Color Modes)
  • DAW Integration: all major DAWs. Best for Ableton Live, Traktor (including remix deck control), and Bitwig Studio.

7.6-Ableton-Push2

Price: $800 USD

To many this is the best MIDI controller for Ableton Live. It was designed by Ableton themselves. It seamlessly integrates with the DAW’s workflow. It allows you to chop samples with the improved Simpler device from Ableton. You can do that right from the LCD display. You can also mess with the pitch on the touchstrip. The 64 pads are velocity and pressure sensitive for total expressive control.

Why we love it : it’s the ultimate controller for Ableton Live. The updated version of the DAW and this new version of Push are taking sampling to the next level.

  • 64 Pads (Velocity- and Pressure-sensitive)
  • High resolution Color LCD display
  • 8 Touch-Sensitive Knobs
  • Scrolling buttons
  • Software included: Ableton Live Intro
  • DAW Integration: Ableton Live

7.5-NI-Maschine-Studio

Native Instruments MASCHINE Studio

Price: $1000

This is NI’s flagship MASCHINE powerhouse production studio. It’s an upgraded version of the MASCHINE with better visual feedback. It’s got complete hands-on control of VSTs and DAWs. The sound samples are high quality and the creative control you get with this controller is endless.

Why we love it : it’s a production powerhouse. Gives you very precise and full control for producing, remixing and performing. It’s a DAW in a box.

  • 16 Backlit Pads (Velocity-sensitive with Aftertouch)
  • 8 Multicolor Buttons
  • 8 Mode Buttons
  • Dedicated Buttons: Play, Stop, Record, Erase, Solo, Copy, Paste, Quantize and much more.

7.2-LinnStrument-large

LinnStruments

Price: $1500 USD

Each row of buttons covers two octaves. You can “tune” each row like you would with strings on a guitar. The unique feature is also the ‘3D Touch Sensing’ technology. It detects the subtle ways in which you press a button. Modulate a note’s pitch, timbre, velocity and loudness with the same finger. It responds so well to subtle touch variations that it’s almost like an acoustic instrument.

Why we love it : it’s the most unique MIDI controller out there that can be played almost like an acoustic instrument.

  • 200 RGB Notepads with ‘3D Touch Sensing’
  • 3D Swing Arpeggiator
  • Split Keyboard / Strum mode
  • Software it comes with: Bitwig 8-Track DAW, open-source editor (ARM-based Arduino Due Platform), free sounds file for Apple’s MainStage and Logic
  • DAW Integration: all major DAWs

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49

7.3-RISE_49_Top_Down_web

Price: $1200 USD

ROLI’s futuristic looking keyboard brings innovation to the table. Key feature: the keyboard detects ‘Five Dimensions of Touch’: strike, press, glide, slide, and lift. This allows for very expressive playing and sound modulation based on how you touch the keys. It can connect wirelessly with Bluetooth. It comes with ROLI’s custom MIDI keyboard software Equator.

Why we love it : it looks stunning and has cutting-edge touch sensing technology.

  • 49 Keys (‘Keywaves’ with Polyphonic Pitch Bend and Aftertouch)
  • Software it comes with: Bitwig 8-Track DAW, Equator (ROLI’s custom-built software synthesizer)

Take control

Many producers say it: going from clicking on a screen in your DAW to tweaking real knobs changes your creative process.

MIDI controllers multiply the possibilities of your DAW and VSTs. All of a sudden you can make a groovier beat, mix more easily and tweak with precision.

Getting the best MIDI keyboard for your needs is a vital tool for success. Choosing the right one is the first step towards becoming a better producer.

Leticia Trandafir

Leticia is a lover of acid basslines and hypnotic techno. She DJs and produces under the name softcoresoft. Writer at LANDR.

Gear guides, tips, tutorials, inspiration and more—delivered weekly.

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🎷 STOCK READY NOW🎷 ONLY 25 TS2 + Free Shipping

Only first 25 units with free shipping, we are so happy to share a new offer we have just launched. buy your travel sax 2 now and get the shipping for free. , 72h flash offer get your travel sax 2 now with free shipping using this coupon code:   backtots2.

How to redeem the coupon?

How to apply the coupon?

Select your favorite Travel Sax 2 and add it to your cart. (“Add to cart” button)

Choose your TravelSax2 and the key color you prefer, then add it to your cart. (“Add to cart” button)

At the top you’ll find: “have a coupon?” enter this coupon code: BACKTOTS2

Complete your billing details, and finally, click on “Place order.” 

Also, you have a video tutorial with all this steps made  here .

PS: Offer just available for Travel Sax 2 purchases (with or without accessories). Not valid to buy just accessories! Not cumulative. The promo will end at 23,59h 27th of January. (CET).

❄️CRAZY WINTER!❄️ White color at 599€!

Don´t miss the opportunity to get your new travel sax 2.

color available home

(in pre-order too)

Travel sax 2 in stock, 5 units left, receive it in 3-5 business days.

There are only these units left that can be delivered in early may. Get yours now and save 50€

 (Promo limited to the units left)!

Get now your FREE COLOR KEYS!

Save up now 90€ by purchasing your Travel Sax 2 in any color you want!

Promo is limited to the time left!

HALLOWEEN TIME🎃 TS2 + Free Shipping

SAVE YOUR SHIPPING COST. ONLY THIS TIME LEFT!

We are so happy to share a new offer we have just launched. Buy your Travel Sax 2 now and get the shipping for free. 

72h halloween offer get your travel sax 2 now with free shipping using this coupon code:    ts2halloween  .

At the top you’ll find: “have a coupon?” enter this coupon code: TS2HALLOWEEN

PS: Offer just available for Travel Sax 2 purchases (with or without accessories). Not valid to buy just accessories! Not cumulative. The promo will end at 23,59h 31st Oct. (CET).

The smallest and lightest electronic sax in the world

travel-sax2

NEW BUNDLE TS2 + Accesory Pack

SAVE 95€ USING THIS COUPON CODE

Unfortunately, we don’t have more units in stock for now so we are in pre-order mode. The estimated delivery time is late April. Because of this, we want to offer you a unique discount to pre-order your Travel Sax 2 now.

You will get 50€ off the retail price + a free accessory pack (valued at 45€) for your travel sax 2. with this discount,  you are saving up to 95€  (travel sax 2 srp is 649€)..

Fill in your cart with a Travel Sax 2 and add your accessory pack.

Open your cart and click the “Checkout” button.

At the top you’ll find: “have a coupon?” enter this coupon code:  FREEPACK

Complete all the payment fields and the coupon will automatically be applied, discounting 45€ from the Accessory Pack.

PS: Offer only available for 1 Travel Sax 2 pre-order purchase. Not cumulable. 

Super portable Extremely compact Same Key Fingering

Travel Sax 2 by his own Creator! – What to expect

Better Sax review!

Is that a Sax in your pocket?

Practice anytime Practice anywhere

Bring it with you wherever you go and start practicing your saxophone skills whenever you want.

Travel Sax 2

599,00 € – 689,00 €

❄️CRAZY WINTER!❄️ (only white color)

Select White color at 599€!

The smallest and lightest saxophone midi controller in the market. It will become the perfect companion when traveling, enabling you the possibility of practicing at anytime, anywhere.

Description

Additional information.

  • Reviews (0)

What’s included?

  • Alto mouthpiece
  • Travel Sax protective case
  • Accessory bag
  • Microfiber cloth
  • x3 3D printed Mouthpiece adaptors (Soprano, Tenor, Baritone)
  • USB-C charging cable

Practice Anytime, Anywhere

Practice, learn, improvise and experiment with thousands of ways of playing the saxophone as a MIDI controller. Bring out your most creative side wherever you go. It uses a standard saxophone mouthpiece and the position of the keys to mimic a conventional saxophone as well as the pressure from your breath to determine volume.

See accessories

Accessory pack

Every accessory can be purchased separately or in a bundle. The accessory pack includes: the curved neck, extensor neck and Mouthpiece. You can also add an extra key set if you want to customize your Travel Sax even more.

Get the pack

What is the delivery time?

Depending on the stock we may have at the moment, the delivery time can be about 4-5 business days after the purchase of your Travel Sax. You can contact us for more information. Please read carefully the Important Details instructions section.

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Related products

Odiseimusic mouthpiece accessory

USB-C adapter (Android)

Extensor neck accessory

Extensor Neck

Accessory pack Odisei Music

Accessory Pack

Built-in synthesizer

Practice and play with 0 latency.

New stainless steel key mechanism

Mimicking the feeling of pressing real sax keys.

Plug & Play silently

Connect your headphones through the Mini jack output.

MIDI Controller

Use your Travel Sax 2 as a powerful MIDI controller and reach the next level of expression. Easily plug it into your computer and unleash your creativity by playing with any standard DAW.

Compatible DAW softwares

The Travel Sax 2, as a MIDI controller is compatible with any DAW software. Explore, create, play and practice with powerful music softwares!

travel controller midi

Specifications

Travel Sax 2 is an ALL-IN-ONE instrument, a powerful tool to upgrade your skills easily.

travel controller midi

Real alto mouthpiece

You can use your own mouthpiece.

Airflow sensor

More expressivity and dynamic control.

Mimicking the feeling of pressing real sax keys!

More than 50 sounds. Play with 0 latency!

Mini Jack output & input  connection

Plug & play silently using your headphones.

Build-in speaker

Independent tool without app or computer.

specifications_travel_sax_mobile

Built-in synthesizer More than 50 sounds. Play with 0 latency!

New key mechanism

Same saxophone fingering sensation to get a realistic practice. Stainless steel springs mimicking the feeling of pressing sax keys!

travel-sax-2-detail-4

Play on the go!

More features. more powerful. fully redesigned..

  • Choose from more than 50 different sounds.
  • Apply, change sound effects and customize the sounds.
  • Customize your own personalized finguering.
  • Track your daily and weekly practice routine.

Now available on Apple Store and Google Play.

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New Travel Sax App

  • Choose from more than 70 different sounds.

Add an extra accessory

Get an accessory with your purchase! New accessories coming soon…

mouthpiece neck accessory

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TuneShroom Is An Artistic Mushroom-Themed MIDI Controller

travel controller midi

Most MIDI controllers are modelled after traditional instruments, like pianos, flutes, or guitars. [Oliver Child] went in a different direction for the TuneShroom , instead modelling his DIY controller after the terrifying, unclassifiable living organism we call the mushroom.

The project was a fun way for [Oliver] to try creating a project with an artistic PCB design, and it worked out well in that regard. He penned a circuit board in the shape of a toadstool, with conductive pads serving as capacitive touch points to activate various notes.

The design is based around the Sparkfun Pro Micro, but it’s not programmed in Arduino. [Oliver] wanted to make full use of the ATmega32U4 microcontroller and have freedom to use the pins at will, so instead the project was programmed with a patched version of LUFA to handle the USB side of things. MIDI data is naturally piped out over this interface to an attached computer.

Files are on Github for the curious. Alternatively, contemplate turning an entire saxophone into a MIDI controller in your spare time. Video after the break.

🎵🍄 TuneShroom up and running! Will be sharing more about the project soon. pic.twitter.com/kWVQyxitoq — Oliver Child (@OliverChild) October 25, 2019

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One thought on “ TuneShroom Is An Artistic Mushroom-Themed MIDI Controller ”

A whole bunch of these and laptops loaded with ZynAddSubFX for a shroom party!

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COMMENTS

  1. 7 Best Portable MIDI Keyboards (For Traveling Musicians)

    A fully-featured MIDI keyboard that fits perfectly in a backpack. Check out our full review of the AKAI MPK Mini Mk3.. Additional features for the MPK Mini III include a 4-way joystick for dynamic pitch/modulation control, built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range, and modes, dedicated Octave Up and Octave Down buttons, onboard arpeggiator, and a Tap Tempo button.

  2. 8 Travel MIDI Keyboards Reviewed in Detail [Mar. 2024]

    At 3.2 pounds, the MiniLab MKII ranks among the most lightweight MIDI keyboards available. Durability is also of important note here as the controller will be able to withstand regular travels. All in all, this Arturia is a great starting point for studio work or even on the road. Its range of sounds is a huge bonus.

  3. Best Travel MIDI Keyboards 2024

    To top it off, Ableton Live Lite and the MIDI Control Center app come pre-installed on the Arturia KeyStep 37, making MIDI mapping a breeze on this best midi keyboard for travel. Overall, this is a terrific portable keyboard that is especially suited for gear heads, but it includes enough functionality to satisfy everyone.

  4. travel midi controller

    Odisei Music Travel Sax 2 Wind Synth/Controller - Forest Green. Travel Sax Wind Synth/Controller with Onboard Sounds, Airflow Sensor, Authentic Sax Key Layout, Steel Springs, Alto Mouthpiece, Headphone/Aux-in/Line-out Jack, Companion App, USB/MIDI Output, and Hardshell Case - Forest Green. $ 789.00. Compare.

  5. 10 Best Travel MIDI Keyboards Reviewed 2024

    10 Best Travel MIDI Keyboards in 2024. Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII. M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV USB Pad. Arturia KeyStep. Novation Launchkey 25 USB Keyboard. M-Audio 32 Keys Keystation Mini 32. CME Xkey 25 Note Gun Metal Gray. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25. QuNexus Smart Sensor Keyboard Controller.

  6. The best portable (and affordable) USB MIDI controllers

    The KeyStep is also the longest controller I looked at. At 19 inches it's quite hard to stuff into most backpacks. Unless you absolutely need the CV and MIDI ports and don't plan to drag it with ...

  7. Lightweight Champs: The Best Portable MIDI Keyboard 2024

    Even a small, portability-focused 88-key keyboard such as the Roland FP-30 is nearly 5′ long. That's wider than most desks. You're not going to be able to drop it into a backpack and take it easily to gigs. So for the most part, buying the best portable MIDI keyboard means that you restrict yourself 25 or 37 keys.

  8. Jamstik Studio Review: An Innovative MIDI Controller Disguised As A

    The guitar's body is mahogany, featuring 24-frets and humbucker pickups. Anyone familiar with smaller travel guitars will feel right at home when they unbox the guitar, which is an unsung necessity if you're new to MIDI guitars; they are devices far from conventional MIDI keyboard controllers that most producers are accustomed to making tunes on.

  9. 7 Best MIDI Keyboards For Music Production & Performance

    "The best mini MIDI keyboard for nomadic producers and backpacking musicians." The AKAI MPK Mini is the world's best-selling portable keyboard controller, popular amongst raw recruits, travelers, and bedroom producers. We touted it as the best budget midi keyboard controller last year, and we still don't see any serious contender to dethrone it.

  10. The Best Compact Mini MIDI Keyboard Controller

    Surprisingly, there are a lot more mini MIDI keyboards than there are larger models, such as 66 and even 88-key controllers — probably because many of us like a snug fit in our studios, travel a lot and need something convenient, or really don't need a bunch of keys, buttons and knobs to be able to make our beautiful music.

  11. Arturia Microlab

    Checking out the Arturia Microlab MIDI controllerFor more music, live sessions and tutorials, Subscribe: http://bit.ly/1MREZn4 Seen in this session: Arturia ...

  12. The 8 Best Wireless Bluetooth MIDI Controllers (2024)

    Compatibility: Universal - Logic, Studio One, Cubase, Ableton Live, etc. 3. Korg microKEY air 37. A wireless music keyboard with 37 mini keys that comes with free music software. The Korg microKEY air 37 easily connects wirelessly to your iPad, iPhone, or Mac, getting rid of messy cables in your workspace.

  13. The 7 best new MIDI controllers and sequencers of 2022, as ...

    6. Akai MPK Mini Plus. 2022 was the year that Akai upsized its MPK Mini MIDI keyboard and released a Plus version. This comes with an extended three-octave keyboard, a built-in sequencer, MIDI and CV/Gate connectivity, proper pitch and mod wheels, MPC pads, knobs, transport controls and more.

  14. Jammy G Super Portable-Folding Travel Smart MIDI Guitar Controller

    Pleasanton, KS, United States. $375. $50 price drop. $325. Free Shipping. 14-Day Return Policy. Up for grabs is a gently used Jammy G Super Portable MIDI Guitar (Black) w/ detachable frame, guitar strap, soft case, user manual, guitar pick (s), strap buttons, screwdriver and hex key included.Can be used via USB or Bluetooth with the (Free ...

  15. The 7 Best 25-Key Mini MIDI Keyboard Controllers 2024

    The Launchkey Mini MkIII is possibly one of the best feeling keyboards on our list; it's lovely to play. The fact that it's intended for Ableton might put some users off, but it's a minor issue at most. Overall, it's one of the best mini MIDI controllers you can buy. 4. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25.

  16. 10 Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers [ 2024 Review ]

    4.0. Find Lowest Price. Last but certainly not least on our list is the Behringer U-Control UMX610 61-Key USB/MIDI Controller Keyboard. From the playability to the stellar range of effects and virtual instruments it features, everything about this midi controller keyboard is top of the line.

  17. 11 Best Mini MIDI Controllers In 2024 Reviewed

    4.5. The Nektar Impact LX 25 is a mini controller powerhouse that gives producers another incredible option instead of your typical Akai Mini MK3. I highly recommend checking this keyboard out as it is great for travel sessions and quick in-studio work. View Price At Sweetwater.

  18. Wind MIDI Controllers

    Odisei Music Travel Sax 2 Wind Synth/Controller - Forest Green Travel Sax Wind Synth/Controller with Onboard Sounds, Airflow Sensor, Authentic Sax Key Layout, Steel Springs, Alto Mouthpiece, Headphone/Aux-in/Line-out Jack, Companion App, USB/MIDI Output, and Hardshell Case - Forest Green

  19. Jammy Midi Guitar Portable

    Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Jammy Midi Guitar Portable - Folding Travel Guitar Ultra Light - App-enabled Smart Guitar & Controller ... Any audio to midi controller needs some time to recognize the pitch of the note, at least 1 full period of the fundamental frequency oscillation. So I pick the string, and I hear the ...

  20. 50 Best MIDI Keyboards and Controllers In The World Today

    This mini grid MIDI controller is a great travel buddy or for small studio spaces. It's designed for Ableton Live - if you don't already have it you get a light version. Use it either to trigger clips or even as a mixer. Why we love it: it's a compact grid controller that doubles as a mixer. Key features: 64 Pads; 16 buttons

  21. Odisei Music Travel Sax 2 Wind Synth/Controller

    Self-contained wind synth and MIDI controller. For onboard sounds, the Travel Sax 2 gives you a basic MIDI soundset, which is a fair tradeoff for being able to play anywhere with a self-contained instrument. But you can also use it as a wind controller in the studio, using its USB/MIDI output to connect to your favorite DAW and lay down tracks ...

  22. Travel Sax 2

    Use your Travel Sax 2 as a powerful MIDI controller and reach the next level of expression. Easily plug it into your computer and unleash your creativity by playing with any standard DAW. Compatible DAW softwares. The Travel Sax 2, as a MIDI controller is compatible with any DAW software. Explore, create, play and practice with powerful music ...

  23. MIDI Controllers

    Arturia MiniLab 3 25 Slim-key Controller. 25-note USB-C MIDI Keyboard Controller with 8 Encoders, 8 Velocity/Pressure Sensitive RGB-backlit Pads, 4 Sliders, 2 Capacitive Touch Strips, Pitch/Mod Control, Arpeggiator, External Control Input, MIDI 5-pin DIN Output, DAW Support, and 500 Presets. $109.00. Or $5.00/month§ with.

  24. TuneShroom Is An Artistic Mushroom-Themed MIDI Controller

    Most MIDI controllers are modelled after traditional instruments, like pianos, flutes, or guitars. [Oliver Child] went in a different direction for the TuneShroom, instead modelling his DIY control…