keyboard midi travel

• MIDI Controllers

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

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 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

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Affiliate Disclosure
• Copyright Notice

2017-2022 © Guitar Junky | Your #1 Source for Music Gear Guides

Send us an email at [email protected]

Audiophiles

Best Travel MIDI Keyboards 2024

• January 2, 2024

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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...

• Best Portable Midi Keyboards 2024
• Best MIDI Keyboards for Beginners 2024
• Ableton Live Intro vs Lite vs Standard
• Best 61 Key MIDI Controllers in 2024
• Best Ableton Controllers 2024
• Home Theater
• Microphones
• Instruments

© 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

Best MIDI keyboards 2024: Mac, PC and iOS keyboards for players, composers and producers

Our expert guide to the best MIDI keyboards of all sizes and budgets to integrate with your home studio

Our top picks

• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best beginner
• 3. Best budget
• 4. Best Ableton
• 6. Best 49 key
• 7. Best 88-key
• 8. Best Logic Pro
• 9. Best FL Studio
• 10. Best for iPad

Also tested

How we test.

No matter what genre you're working in to make music these days, you'll need one of the best MIDI keyboards as part of your studio setup. Choosing the right MIDI controller for you can be difficult though, as there's a huge amount available in 2024, with varying shapes, sizes, features, and DAW integrations to take into account. 

Lucky for you, our expert writing team of musicians here at MusicRadar has tested countless MIDI keyboards, from compact mini keys right through to full-size, weighted 88-key behemoths. It gives us a great oversight on what's in the market, and what might be best suited for your studio setup. We test all of the MIDI keyboards that come across our desktops rigorously, trying them with multiple DAWs and making sure we learn and explore every feature available. 

For those who are buying for the first time, we'd recommend checking out our FAQs section which answers loads of common questions. It'll give you plenty of knowledge to make sure you get the right controller for you. If you already know your stuff, then keep scrolling for the best MIDI keyboards you can buy right now...

Combining the cross-format analogue and digital sequencing of the BeatStep with a 37-note keyboard, the Arturia Keystep Pro is more than suited for any of your melodic needs. Featuring four sequencing channels, each of which can record a sequence of up to 64 steps, this is a seriously versatile controller. 

Read more below

Next up, we have to recommend the Akai MPK Mini Mk3. Put simply, it has everything you’ll need: decent-quality keys, endless rotary knobs, and eight sought-after MPC-style pads for creating beats. For us, the Akai MPK Mini represents fantastic value for money. 

If you're on a tight budget, the Nektar SE25 is incredible value for money priced around the $/£50 mark. It's no wider than your average laptop, and six assignable buttons give you more flexibility than you might think at first glance.

Best overall

1. Arturia Keystep Pro

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ Buy if you want a MIDI keyboard that can do it all: With its mix of analogue and digital ins and outs as well as plenty of creative tools for sequencing, the Keystep Pro is one of the best MIDI keyboards money can buy. ❌ Avoid if you like big keys: The keystep features mini-keys, which may not suit those coming from a piano or synthesizer playing background.

Between their ‘Step’ and ‘Lab’ devices, Arturia has a pretty broad range of controllers, ranging from the simple, budget-friendly Microlab MIDI keyboard to the multi-format sequencing tools of the BeatStep Pro . Now the KeyStep Pro has arrived to fill one of the few remaining gaps in that line-up; combining the cross-format analogue and digital sequencing of the BeatStep with a 37-note keyboard making it better suited to melodic work.

The KeyStep Pro features four sequencing channels, each of which can record a sequence of up to 64 steps. Each of these is polyphonic, up to 16 notes per step. Tracks 2, 3 and 4 are each equipped with an arpeggiator, while track 1 doubles up as a 24-part drum sequencer. 

For melodic sequencing duties and flexible hardware control, we found this to be easily one of the best do-it-all controllers out there right now. Its compact size may deter serious ‘players’ - Novation’s SL Mk3 remains the best CV-equipped device on that front - but modular and hardware-loving musicians will likely lap this one up.

Read the full Arturia Keystep Pro review

Best beginner

2. Akai MPK Mini Mk3

✅ Buy if you're new to production: With 25 keys, 8 pads, and 8 encoders, the MPK Mini delivers a lot of playability at a relatively small price point. ❌ Avoid if you like a mod wheel: Featuring a thumbstick instead of mod and pitch wheels to save space, not everyone will get along with the MPK Mini.

The Akai MPK Mini Mk3 is, in many ways, the best MIDI keyboard for most people, particularly those looking for a quick and easy way to add melodies, basslines, and simple chords to their projects. 

For us, what elevates the MPK Mini MK3 from a simple keyboard, is the addition of eight encoder knobs which can be easily mapped to practically any parameter of your DAW, and eight full-sized, touch sensitive MPC-style drum pads.

What you get, therefore, is a full-service production powerhouse that excels in many different playing and performing situations. We found it to be small enough to be thrown in a backpack, yet contains enough useful features and functions to make it a highly useful addition to any studio.

Read the full Akai MPK Mini Mk3 review

Best budget

3. Nektar SE25

If you've splurged your budget for a studio elsewhere, the Nektar SE25 will be a fantastic affordable MIDI keyboard. It's compact size makes it great as part of a travel rig, and its got a surprising amount of depth despite the small size.

It's a very minimal controller, so no mod wheel, drum pads, or anything else superfluous. You do get 6 assignable buttons however, which you can use to change octaves or add certain types of modulation depending on what your needs are.

The keys themselves are very small, so more experienced players probably won't enjoy the feel. They are touch sensitive however, and we found for simple chords, melodies, and beats, they do a sterling job of translating your musical ideas.

Read our full Nektar SE25 review

Best for Ableton

4. Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3

✅ Buy if you use Ableton: Designed to integrate perfectly with Ableton Live, the Novation Launchkey is packed full of features that make using it with Ableton an absolute breeze. ❌ Avoid if you don't use Ableton: It will work with other DAWs, but this is best for those who do the majority of their work in Ableton Live.

Developed primarily for Ableton users and newly updated, this pocket powerhouse is just brimming with features, many of which were missing from the previous version, including - finally - pitch bend and modulation touchstrips, a hardware MIDI out on a TRS jack, an incredibly flexible and versatile arpeggiator, a chord memory feature, and a great, deal-sweetening software bundle.

Of course, the Launchkey Mini Mk3 isn’t exclusive to Ableton, as it plays perfectly nicely with other DAWs too, but if you’re a Live user, it undoubtedly represents the best solution at this price point.

As a general-use MIDI keyboard, we found the Launchkey Mini MK3 to be more than adequate for our dual-octave, travel-friendly needs. If you want a small, velocity-sensitive MIDI keyboard with impressive connectivity, we don't think you can go far wrong with the Launchkey Mini MK3.

Read the full Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 review

5. Korg microKEY2 Air-25

✅ Buy if you're short on space: With its teeny-tiny footprint and wireless connectivity, this mini MIDI keyboard is perfect for those in need of a compact controller. ❌ Avoid if you need lots of transport functions: Due to its small size there's not much in the way of extra controls here, so might not suit those who rely on transport controls.

The microKey 2 Air range includes 25-, 37-, 49- and 61-note models, all of which have the advantage of working wirelessly over Bluetooth. If you want to use this feature you'll have to install a couple of AA batteries, but in our tests these lasted for a good length of time and good old USB bus-powering is also an option. 

For those looking for a compact option, it's small enough to take with your laptop in a bag or to use on a tight desktop. The wireless connectivity also saves you space by omitting the need for any cable runs.

The microKey 2 Air 25 isn't the most controller-packed keyboard, but it gives you the basics and plays far better than many of its rivals. In testing, we also found that it's easy to set up and operate, so if you want to free yourself from the tyranny of cables, you've found the MIDI controller keyboard you need.

Read our full Korg microKEY2 Air-25 review  

Best 49 keys

6. Novation 49 SL MkIII

✅ Buy if you want 49 keys: With 49 keys and endless additional controls, the Novation 49 SL gives the perfect balance between compact usability and full functionality. ❌ Avoid if you like randomization tools: Some MIDI keyboards at this level will give you randomization tools but these are notably absent from this particular model.

Sure, you can plug the SL MkIII into a computer and use it to control your DAW, but with an eight-channel onboard sequencer and multiple forms of digital and analogue output, this latest SL really can do much more besides. 

Novation has done an excellent job in making setup as hassle-free as possible, but given how adaptable the SL MkIII is, you’ll still need to spend some time configuring it to best adapt it to your own setup. 

We found that it doesn’t quite match the plug-and-play immediacy of NI's Komplete Kontrol system, but offers much more flexibility for interfacing hardware and software. 

The ability to sequence and control analogue hardware, MIDI-equipped instruments, plugins and your DAW all from one interface and clock source is excellent, and if you dig into the SL MkIII’s versatile workflow, and you’ll find that there’s a deep well of creative possibilities just waiting to be explored.

Read the full Novation 49 SL MkIII review

Best 88-key

7. Native Instruments Kontrol S88

✅ Buy if you want a piano-like feel: With 88 full-size, weighted, velocity-sensitive keys that feature aftertouch, the S88 is perfect for those who are coming from a piano or synth-playing background. ❌ Avoid if you're on a budget: All that lovely keybed feel comes at a price, so you won't want to look at the price of this MIDI keyboard if your budget is tight.

The Komplete Kontrol S88 is a smart MIDI keyboard controller that offers pre-mapped control of NI's Komplete instruments and any third-party plugins that support the NKS standard. In comparison to its predecessor, the Komplete Kontrol MkIII removes the two high-resolution colour screens, opting for a single high-resolution full-color along with 29 additional function buttons. There’s tighter DAW and Maschine integration, too, making it possible to mix, navigate, and edit projects from the hardware. 

As before, there’s a Fatar keybed and Light Guide, and in our tests, we welcomed the arrival of proper pitch and mod wheels rather than touchstrips. That said, a single horizontal touch strip is supplied and can be used for additional expression. If you liked the idea of Komplete Kontrol the first time around, the good news is that there’s even more to like about it now. 

You can do so much more from the device itself, with better visual feedback and much deeper levels of integration front and centre of its workflow. If you’re already wedded to the Komplete software package, nothing will help you work with it as musically as Komplete Kontrol MkII.

Read our full Native Instruments Kontrol S61 review

Best for Logic Pro

8. Nektar Impact LX88+

✅ Buy if you use Logic Pro: The Nektar MIDI keyboards have excellent DAW integration, but there aren't many controllers out there that work so well with Logic Pro. ❌ Avoid if you're short on space: With 88 full-size keys this is a pretty big MIDI keyboard, so not for those who are lacking space on their desktop.

Today’s buyers of keyboard controllers are spoilt for choice, but if you’re looking for a full piano-size 88-note MIDI controller, said choices are more limited. One great option is Nektar’s Impact LX88+, which combines an 88-key semi-weighted USB-powered keyboard with extensive DAW control via nine sliders, nine buttons, eight knobs, eight pads, and transport controls. 

Nektar's excellent DAW integration has been improved upon massively, with standardised assignments over countless VST instruments making for a seamless workflow. It'll work with many popular DAWs too, including Logic Pro, Reaper, Studio One , Cubase, and loads more.

Despite the number of features, we found the LX88+ to be reasonably compact and light enough to be portable. What’s more, the keys feel good and the mechanical noise is quite low. The LX88+ won’t suit everyone, and some 88-key users will be after a full weighted hammer-action, but at this price, it’s a bargain and well worth testing. 

Read the full Nektar Impact LX88+ review

Best for FL Studio

9. Novation FLkey Mini

✅ Buy if you use FL Studio: There aren't many dedicated controllers for FL Studio, which makes the FLkey perfect for lovers of Image Line's excellent DAW. ❌ Avoid if you don't use FL: Likewise if you're not an existing FL user, many of the features here won't make sense in a different DAW so best to avoid.

FL Studio has been around for a long time and is regularly used for producing music, yet users have had to wait ages for a dedicated controller. It’s finally here though, and the Novation FLkey Mini is a fantastic MIDI keyboard for those who do their work in FL Studio.

With 16 RGB pads, 10 buttons, 8 encoders, and touch pads for modulation and pitch shifting, Novation has crammed a lot into this mini MIDI controller, but it never feels cramped working on it. The mini-keys are surprisingly playable despite the size and touch-sensitive too which is great for adding extra feel to your melodies.

Dedicated preset buttons are a godsend for auditioning instruments, allowing you to cycle through without reaching for the mouse. Alongside those you also get buttons for Channel Racks, transport control, the Score Log, and undo/redo. There might not be much choice for dedicated FL controllers, but thankfully this one is absolutely brilliant.

Read our full Novation FLkey Mini review

Best for iPad

10. Arturia Keystep 37

Sitting nicely between the Keystep and Keystep Pro, the Arturia Keystep 37 has enough features of its own to be classed as an upgrade over the original - and much-loved - model. The expanded 37 key section allows more complex patterns and melodies to be played, while adding four assignable encoder knobs - with visual feedback - offers real-time feedback on your DAW parameters.

The sequencer was a joy for us to use, with the ability to program up to 64 steps directly onto the keyboard itself. This, along with the arpeggiator, can be used within your DAW or to control external hardware or modular synths making it a versatile studio workhorse which suits several different workflows.

We love the small size of the Keystep 37, which nicely bridges that gap between playability and compactness. Perfect for a travel rig or just the musician on the move, this superb MIDI keyboard is matches creativity with functionality brilliantly.

Read the full Arturia Keystep 37 review

M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKV | 49-keys | Full-sized | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 2.9kg With a 3-segment LED display and eight back-lit red pads, split into two banks of eight, the M-Audio Oxygen is a lighter version of the popular Pro model. Functions are mostly triggered via soft keys and via ‘secondary modes’ from the keybed itself, making it ultra versatile. MusicRadar Score: 4.5/5

Read our full M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKV review

Roland A-88MKII | 88-keys | Full-sized | Velocity-sensitive with escapement | USB or mains-powered | 16.3kg The A-88MKII is a long-awaited update to Roland's much-loved A-88 MIDI keyboard. The footprint is compact - good news if you’re using it in the studio. Ivory Feel keys, 3-sensor key detection, and key-specific progressive hammer action, all deliver the feel of a real piano. MusicRadar Score: 4.5/5

Read our full Roland A-88MKII review

Arturia MiniLab 3 | 25-keys | Mini | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 1.49kg MiniLab 3 is the latest incarnation of Arturia’s 25-mini key MIDI controller keyboard. The new overhauled top panel is now graced with eight ultra-smooth continuous controllers, four sliders, and a mini display with accompanying push action rotary encoder. MusicRadar Score: 4.5/5

Read our full Arturia MiniLab 3 review

Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3 | 37-keys | Full-size | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 2.18kg Common to all of Novation’s ‘Mk3’ Launchkey devices (there are 25-, 37-, 49- and 61-key variants) is a sleek, matte-black look and low-profile design, along with a series of new features designed to take advantage of updated elements of Ableton Live. MusicRadar Score: 4.5/5

Read our full Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3 review

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 | 25-keys | Full-size | Semi-weighted | USB-powered | 2.5kg Available in 25-, 49- and 61-key versions, the A-Series borrows many of the S-Series’ best features including the 4D Encoder for software navigation; eight touch-sensitive knobs for plugin parameter control; beefy pitch and mod wheels; and several backlit buttons. MusicRadar Score: 5/5

Read our full Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 review

Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII | 49-keys | Full-size | Velocity-sensitive with aftertouch | USB or mains powered | 6.25kg The Keylab MkII’s keyboard and pads are bolstered by DAW controls and deep integration with Arturia’s bundled Analog Lab 3 software. Although similar in layout to the KeyLab Essential, the MkII is a different unit, with a higher price tag and more upmarket feel. MusicRadar Score: 4.5/5

Read our full Arturia Keylab 49 MkII review

What key size do I need?

For simple inputting of drum beats, simple bass and melody lines and basic chords, smaller MIDI controllers with mini keys should do the job just fine. These have the advantage of being cheaper and more portable than their larger brethren and take up a smaller footprint on your work surface. These days, some people find that mini keys can be just as responsive and easy to play as full-size versions.

If, however, you’re coming from a piano or keyboard background, you will possibly require the more traditional playing experience provided by full-sized weighted keys. Thankfully, there are options for everyone.

How many keys do I need?

The best MIDI keyboards featured here come with octave shift buttons, meaning that the full range of note pitches is accessible even from a 25-key device, just by pressing a couple of buttons. That said, if you’re a more advanced player, or want to learn how to play two-handed, it’s better to go for a four octave (49-note) or five octave (61-note) keyboard. If space isn’t an issue, you can even opt for an 88-key, piano-sized controller if desired. For basic melodies and chords, a smaller keyboard will work just fine though.

What connectivity do I need?

With a lot of producers now working ‘in-the-box’ on a single computer or laptop, you don’t necessarily need a MIDI output unless you have some hardware MIDI synths to connect it to, but some controllers do come with traditional 5-pin MIDI out ports. Smaller, mini jack TRS MIDI outputs are also becoming more popular and offer the same functionality. All controllers in this guide can be powered via the USB port, and if you want to play proper piano parts, a sustain pedal input is a must.

What is DAW integration?

Being able to control the transport of your DAW and adjust the parameters of your software instruments from your keyboard rather than your computer is always handy. Once you’ve added remote transport - i.e. via a physical keyboard or controller - you’ll struggle to go back to your mouse for actions like playing, pausing and record arming. If you stick to one DAW and find a controller which boasts deep integration - and many do nowadays - then you’re in for a treat.

MIDI keyboard controllers come in all shapes and sizes, from small-form desktop units with few controls, right up to 88-note larger keyboards with weighted piano-action style keys. Obviously price is a factor, so we weigh up all of the controls – knobs, sliders, pads and keys – versus the price paid and what style of player the keyboards are aimed at. This can range from the mobile producer, who just needs a small wired or wireless keyboard to throw into a shoulder bag, to the more advanced player who requires the aforementioned professional standard keyboard and where mobility is not so paramount. 

Like audio interfaces, MIDI keyboards should be easy to set up – hopefully plug and play – and many also come with software bundles to get you up and running in music production. Again we'll look at each of these bundles which usually represent hundreds of $/£ of software, seemingly thrown in for free, to see how they really do shape up. 

Finally, of course, the actual controls and keyboards are also tested to see how responsive they can be. Keyboards, particularly at the lower price point, can be very cheap in feel so we also test how well they play for velocity (volume) and aftertouch (when you press the keys down further to trigger different sounds and effects).

It's fair to say that the more you pay, the better and more piano-like this response, and the more controls you get, although as with cheap audio interfaces, there are some great controllers out there for less than $/£100.

Read more about  how we test music making gear and services at MusicRadar . 

Related buyer's guides

MusicRadar's got your back Our team of expert musicians and producers spends hours testing products to help you choose the best music-making gear for you. Find out more about how we test.

• Start creating with the best beginner MIDI keyboards
• Our pick of the best studio monitors for home recording
• Get into your mix with the best studio headphones for music making
• The best MIDI pad controllers for beatmaking and sequencing
• Explore the best iPads for musicians and producers

Get the MusicRadar Newsletter

Want all the hottest music and gear news, reviews, deals, features and more, direct to your inbox? Sign up here.

Andy has been writing about music production and technology for 30 years having started out on Music Technology magazine back in 1992. He has edited the magazines Future Music, Keyboard Review, MusicTech and Computer Music, which he helped launch back in 1998. He owns way too many synthesizers.

• Chris Corfield
• Matt McCracken Junior Deals Writer

“A generous update stuffed with ideas and real potential”: Ableton Live 12 Suite review

“Did I think me talking about being a messy bitch and, like, partying and needing a Bic lighter and a pack of Marlboro Lights would end up on CNN? No”: Charli XCX on Brat’s viral success and that tweet

"'You’re just 5’ 7'? Sorry it’s not going to work out”: Yes, Marty Friedman really was too short to audition for Kiss

Most Popular

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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):

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

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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:

Best Mini MIDI Keyboard: Portable Options for Traveling Musicians

Nothing will boost your creativity more than getting out of the studio, and making music in a new environment. In order to do this you'll need a MIDI keyboard that's portable and, ideally, versatile.

And that's where this article comes in.

We're going to look at a bunch of the best mini MIDI controllers, and help you decide which one is right for you.

But first...

What Exactly Is Portable, Anyhoo?

Keyboard controllers come in all shapes and sizes, with a broad spectrum of features and gubbins. This, naturally, makes some MIDI keyboards more portable than others.

Generally speaking, the number of keys will dictate how easy it is to move the board around, but even some 25-note controllers come with a hefty weight.

For the purposes of this article, we've narrowed the list of controllers down to those that are considered mini MIDI keyboards. So they all:

• Have between 25-37 keys
• Operate solely on USB power (or battery power for wireless keyboard models)
• Weigh-in at under 6lbs

Things To Consider

Depending on what kind of (traveling) musician you are, there are a few things you'll want to consider when choosing a portable MIDI controller.

I know, I know. I'm always harking on about budget, and not spending more than you can afford when buying gear. But in the case of a portable midi keyboard, another moolah factor to consider is the likelihood of loss or damage on the road.

If you're the kind of traveler who 'misplaces' their belongings often, you might want to opt for a less expensive MIDI keyboard that would be less painful on your wallet if you have to replace it.

Size, Action, and Number Of Keys

Let's face it, with a portable MIDI keyboard you're never going to replicate the feel of a real piano. All the same, it's worth considering the key size and the number of keys when choosing your traveling companion.

All the boards in this article have between 25 to 37 keys. Any more and they wouldn't fit in your average backpack (and even 37 keys would be a tight fit). But having a 37-note MIDI keyboard to work on could mean a lot less octave button-pushing if you tend to travel a lot up and down the keyboard (pun absolutely intended).

Some mini MIDI controllers have mini keys, others have 3/4 size keys, and some offer full-size keys. Depending on the kind of player you are, and what you're doing with the controller, you may prefer to opt for the larger keys or spend forever editing bum notes out of your piano roll.

Similarly, the action of the keys could be an important deciding factor for you. Do you need velocity sensitivity? Do you crave a semi-weighted feel?

Will you be using the board to augment your live set-up and performances? If so you'll almost certainly want a model with full-size keys, and some response to your passionate velocity changes.

Most mini keyboards come with at least a handful of controls. These can include:

• Rotary knobs
• Transport controls
• Pitch and mod wheels, or some version of them
• Connectivity for external controls, like a sustain pedal input

If you're just planning on sketching out some ideas in Garageband while you're sunning yourself at the beach (don't forget the lotion) you could get away with a bare minimum of controls. A way of controlling pitch bend and modulation, some way of sustaining notes (whether it's a pedal input or a sustain button), and maybe one assignable controller so you can program in filter sweeps or the like.

But if you're wanting to knock out the next summer anthem while you're chomping a croissant at a street cafe in Paris, you'll want a MIDI keyboard controller that has a comprehensive set of features.

Keep in mind that the more bells and whistles your keyboard controller has, the more cumbersome it will be to lug around.

Pads are great for programming beats and are just plain fun to use. But not all pads are created equal, and if you spend a good deal of time finger drumming you may want to opt for a higher-end mini keyboard that has more responsive pads than a less expensive model.

Pads can also (sometimes) be assigned to other controls, like triggering samples, launching clips, navigating between scene markers, or sending MIDI CC messages. If you get super granular with your programming you might like to have a bunch of pads at your disposal.

But obviously the more pads you have, the larger your board will be.

As a traveling musician, I'd recommend having some pads, but if they aren't your thing, I've included some models below that don't have any.

While it's unlikely that you'll be throwing MIDI keyboards down exotic stairways while you're traveling, durability is nonetheless still a consideration.

If you're just going downtown to work in a coffee shop it's likely that any board will survive the trip in your backpack.

But if you're planning on a more nomadic existence there'll be some rigors the road throws at you that will require a sturdy build of the keyboard controller.

No matter how sturdy the board is though, knobs, buttons, and keys can all get snagged on things and break. If possible try to find some kind of protective hard case for your mini midi keyboard.

The 10 Best Mini MIDI Controllers For Traveling

1. nektar se25 mini midi controller keyboard.

• 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys
• 6 Buttons (somewhat assignable)
• DAW integration
• iOS Compatible
• Dimensions: 15.75" x 5.71" x 2.76"
• Weight: 1lb

We're kicking off with possibly the most affordable and perhaps the best mini MIDI keyboard controller on the market, and one of the tiniest. The SE25 is an ultra-compact MIDI keyboard, with some nifty functions hidden beneath the surface.

The two octaves of mini keys sit on a newly-designed velocity-sensitive keybed. There are three different velocity curves, so you can set the board to be responsive to your playing style as you enter MIDI notes on the SE25.

There are no wheels on this little fella; pitch, modulation, and sustain are all controlled by buttons to the left of the keybed. The modulation control is shared by the sustain button and unfortunately is either all on or all off.

Of the six buttons (octave up/down, PB1/PB2, Sustain, Part 2), three can be assigned to various control functions (including MIDI channel control). Pressing the Octave Down and PB1 buttons simultaneously activates transport control mode, and Nektar's DAW integration includes most of the major players on the music software scene. If your DAW of choice isn't supported by this the transport buttons will still work, you'll just have less access to some features.

Note that to take advantage of this DAW integration you'll need to register your product and download the file for your DAW from the Nektar website.

In truly portable style, the SE25 is also compatible with Apple iOS devices. You will need to purchase a separate camera connection kit and be aware that since the power comes through the USB port it'll use up the juice on your iPhone/iPad.

All things considered, the SE25 is a fantastic small MIDI keyboard, offering playability and a competent amount of functionality, for a very modest cost. Ideal for the beginner, or the musician who wants a no-frills portable MIDI input solution.

• Ultra-compact design means it's truly portable
• A surprising amount of control functions
• Very affordable - great for the beginner roaming musician

2. Korg microKEY Air-25 Bluetooth Keyboard Controller

• 25 key velocity-sensitive mini keys
• Pitch/modulation joystick control
• Bluetooth enabled for wireless playing
• Dimensions: 15.55" x 5.16" x 2.05"
• Weight: 1.48lbs (without batteries)

The Korg microKEY is the best mini MIDI keyboard for minimalist musicians. This wireless keyboard allows you to connect to your laptop or iOS mobile devices without any cables!

And obviously, you still have the option of connecting via the USB port.

So aside from having no cable to trip over, what makes this mini keyboard so special?

The key action.

While it is a mini keyboard, the key action itself is fantastic. Whether you're playing piano parts, shredding a synth solo, or bashing out some drums, these keys will work for anything.

The microKEY 25 also has the obligatory octave shift buttons, plus an arpeggiator button, sustain/tap button, and a joystick for pitch and modulation control. There are no other control functions, but the shining feature of this board is the key action. Did I mention the key action?

Although this article is more about portability than anything else, it's worth mentioning the bundled software that comes with the microKEY: a copy of Reason Limited, a handful of plugins from AAS and UVI, the Korg Collection M1 Le synth sound module, and Izotope Ozone elements. Enough to get your creative juices flowing when you need some new sounds.

• Wireless connection to desktops, laptops, and iOS devices
• Premium keyboard action
• Nice software bundle included

3. Nektar Impact LX Mini

• 25 mini keys
• 8 pads, 8 rotary knobs
• 7 transport buttons for DAW control
• 2 built-in arpeggiators
• 1/4" footswitch input
• Dimensions: 15.35" x 7.28" x 1.49"
• Weight: 2.20lbs

Nektar have made a big impact (these puns are too easy) with their Panorama range of MIDI controllers. Now they've streamlined things, and made them more affordable, with the LX range of MIDI keyboards.

The 25 synth-action mini keys on this mini midi are velocity-sensitive, with four velocity curves available to suit different playing styles. But really, this portable keyboard is about the controllers.

The eight drum pads offer a fantastic response when playing (snare rolls are indeed a doddle). The pads can easily be assigned to different notes, or to send out MIDI CC messages, launch clips in Ableton Live, or navigate through scene markers. And all of this can be stored in one of four banks.

Eight rotary knobs come pre-mapped for controlling virtual instruments, or pan pots on your mixer, so you don't need to spend hours programming. Unless you want to - everything is completely assignable.

A large volume knob in the upper left corner controls the channel volume, and of course, this is also assignable.

Finally, a comprehensive set of DAW controls maps instantly to the music software of your choice (you'll need to download the integration software to do this).

To top all this off, the LX Mini is slim enough to fit easily into any backpack or messenger bag. Throw in your laptop, USB cable, and a pair of headphones and you'll be making music wherever you are.

• Excellent portable controller for music production
• Comprehensive DAW integration
• Light on the back, light on the pocket

4. Akai MPK Mini Mk3

• 25 velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys
• 8 pads, 8 assignable knobs
• 4-way joystick for pitch bend & modulation control
• Dimensions: 12.5" x 7.13" x 1.75"
• Weight: 1.65lbs

No rundown of MIDI keyboard controllers would be complete without mentioning the Akai Professional MPK mini. Akai have a long and respected history when it comes to making portable keyboards, and the MPK mini delivers a powerful punch.

The synth-action keys on this controller are comparable to pretty much any other mini portable keyboard. The action may not be as good as the Korg microKEY, but they're responsive to your playing, and (in my opinion) feel pretty decent for the price.

The eight velocity-sensitive pads are based on classic MPC hardware and deliver a great feel for precision finger-drumming. The two banks of pads have note repeat and full level functions - essential for any serious beat-maker.

A new feature on the MPK mini MK3 version is the endless rotary knobs. In previous iterations of this controller, the dials had hard upper and lower points, which can lead to workflow issues when tweaking parameters.

Another new addition is the OLED display, so you can see parameter values as you change them. While this isn't a deal-breaker (after all, it's ultimately about how things sound), having some kind of visual cue for your parameter settings is a good thing to have on a MIDI controller.

Finally, it's worth noting the bundled software that comes with the MPK mini. MPC Beats is a DAW-based on the fabled MPC workflow, but the sounds it comes with are so good it's worth using as a plug-in on your native DAW. You also get 1,500 downloadable sounds, and a handful of virtual instruments from Air Music Technology, including the delightful Mini Grand.

• Industry-standard hardware
• Works plug 'n' play with any software
• Sturdy design and build

5. Novation Launchkey Mini Mk 3

• 25 mini keyboard controller
• 16 velocity-sensitive pads, 8 rotary encoders
• Seamless integration with Ableton Live
• MIDI Out port
• Dimensions: 12.9" x 6.77" x 1.22"
• Weight: 1.55lbs

MIDI protocol is universal, so any MIDI controller will work with any DAW software. But the Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 is specifically designed with the Ableton user in mind and lends itself well to that workflow.

Controls for Ableton include device macro-control, track select, record, MIDI capture, clip and scene launch, volume, pans, and sends. But if you're not digging how things are mapped out, all the controls are assignable so you can make the Launchkey work the way you want it to.

In addition to a sustain pedal input, there's also a TRS Type A 1/8 inch MIDI out port on the rear of the unit. This is not likely to appeal to the traveling musician, but if you're using the controller as part of a live rig, the MIDI out opens up the possibility of controlling external hardware synths from the Launchkey.

In addition to the multitude of controls, RGB pads, and 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, the Launchkey Mini simplifies music production with its onboard arpeggiator, mutate and deviate functions, and Fixed Chord mode.

Fixed Chord Mode essentially maps any chord you choose across the keyboard, so everything makes harmonic sense. The mutate function takes your arpeggiated idea and reconstructs it into new statements, while the deviate function simply removes random notes from your arpeggiated riff to create new variations. All in all, some great creative tools going on here.

This compact controller from Novation also has full integration for Logic and Reason, functionality with any HUI-compatible DAW, and ships with a nice bundle of software instruments and effects. Including (you guessed it) Ableton Live Lite.

• MIDI out for controlling hardware synths
• Great set of features for the price

6. M-Audio Oxygen Pro 25

• 2 octave, semi-weighted keys, with aftertouch
• 16 backlit pads, 8 assignable knobs
• Controls auto-map to your DAW
• Dimensions: 19.3" x 10.4" x 3.3"
• Weight: 5.4lbs

This offering from M-Audio is a little more chonky than the boards we've looked at up to now. But that's because this mini MIDI keyboard gives you semi-weighted keys feel, and a lot of controls, while still (just) being able to fit into your backpack.

It's also worth noting that the keys on this MIDI controller are full size, so those of you who get frustrated with the smaller keys found on other mini MIDI keyboards have nothing to worry about. The keys are also aftertouch-enabled, giving the player extra expressive power.

The Oxygen Pro has an impressive 16 velocity-sensitive drum pads, which double up as clip launchers, and function buttons to access other controls. Above the pads are 8 rotary knobs, which can be assigned to control any parameter on your virtual instruments.

To the left of the unit, the handful of DAW controls work with most major recording software. Just select your DAW from the onboard presets, and everything gets auto-mapped.

Additional features include a single (assignable) fader, onboard arpeggiator, Smart Chord, and Smart Scale technology (bypassing the need to reach for your music theory book when you want to push your musical envelope), a 1/4" sustain pedal input, and 5-pin MIDI output, for controlling external gear. There's also a bright OLED screen to make editing uncomplicated.

For the price, the feel of this board is pretty sturdy. At just over 5 lbs, it does create more of a burden for your back when lugging it around, but the payoff is in the feel of the keys, and the amount of control you get over your music production process.

• Lots of pads, with multiple functions
• Onboard instant mapping of controls to your DAW - great for multi-DAW users
• Make music right out of the box with the comprehensive software bundle

7. Arturia Minilab MK II

• 2 octave slim key keybed
• 8 pads, 16 knobs
• Pitch and modulation strips
• Save MIDI control maps on 8 internal presets
• Dimensions: 14" x 8.7" x 2"
• Weight: 3.3lbs

Arturia have some fantastic MIDI controllers on offer, and the Minilab is a portable and inexpensive version of these.

The synth-action keys on the Minilab are slightly smaller than full size, but big enough that you won't be playing P-blunt when you meant to play D-sharp. You can enhance your performance using the pitch and modulation strips. Helpfully, the pitch strip returns to zero when it's released. The modulation strip stays where it's at, which makes sense but without the visual cue as to its setting could get a little confusing.

The eight pads are velocity-sensitive and come with two banks. They are a little smaller than pads on other mini keyboards - presumably to make room for the sixteen encoders. These knobs can all be assigned to plug-ins or DAW parameters, and two of them are clickable essentially making them double up as buttons.

Previous owners of the Minilab have complained about erratic behavior from the control knobs. Arturia have addressed this with a firmware update, so if you do go for this MIDI controller be sure to download the firmware update right away!

The other big selling point for the Minilab is the included software. With access to 500- presets from Analog Lab Lite you can go nuts peppering your tunes with classic vintage synth sounds. You also get a copy of Ableton Live Lite so you can start creating analog-sounding tunes right away. There is, naturally, an upgrade path to the full versions of both.

• Sturdy build and quality feel
• Controls iOS virtual instrument apps
• Tons of vintage synth sounds in the box

8. Novation FL Key 37

• 37 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys
• 16 pads, 8 assignable knobs
• Complete integration with FL Studio
• Dimensions: 21.85" x 10.16" x 3.03
• Weight: 4.9lbs

Fans of FL Studio were delighted earlier this year when Novation announced the release of the FL Key - the first-ever dedicated MIDI keyboard controller for the DAW that's been around 24 years.

The FL Key comes in two sizes; the 25-key Mini model, and this one - the 37, with its full-size keys. Every part of this MIDI keyboard has been designed to integrate with its namesake DAW - the transport controls, the drum pads, rotary knobs, and dedicated channel rack and preset buttons.

If you're using FL native plug-ins, you'll find the controllers auto-map to parameters on the software (although sometimes the mapping can be a bit confusing). The drum pads can be used to program beats, control the FL step sequencer and instruments, and play directly into the channel rack.

The FL Key comes with a 6-month trial of FL Studio Producer Edition, plus an instrument and effects software bundle. If you're a long-time user of the software and have developed your own unique workflow, you may find yourself taking a few steps back to integrate this controller into your process. But I always say all change is good, and this could trigger new creative directions for you.

And if you're a fan of the software looking to develop a streamlined workflow, the FL Key is absolutely one of the best MIDI controllers you can get.

• Streamline your workflow in FL Studio
• Connect external gear with the 5-pin MIDI out connection
• Custom programming of all pad and knob functions

9. NI Komplete Kontrol M32

• 32 micro-size synth-action keys
• 8 touch-sensitive control knobs
• Dedicated transport controls (DAW specific)
• Dimensions: 18.7" x 6.57" x 1.96"
• Weight: 2.27lbs

Native Instruments are well-known for their gargantuan Komplete collections of instrument and effects software. The Komplete Kontrol set of MIDI keyboards is designed to integrate smoothly with this software, allowing the user to browse presets and tweak sounds directly from the board.

All the controls come pre-mapped to Komplete and NKS software, and with the OLED display, parameter editing is a doddle.

The DAW controls work with Logic, Ableton, Cubase, Garageband, and Nuendo - not the most comprehensive integration ever, but if you already use any of these bits of kit you're in luck.

The keybed is very nice to play, even if the keys are a little on the small side. Pitch and mod control is handled by the touch strips to the left of the keys.

And while there aren't any pads on the M32, it does play very well with Maschine hardware. If you're a big NI fan, you could build a tasty mobile rig for traveling using the M32 and the Maschine Mikro.

• Cost-effective gateway into the sonic world of Native Instruments
• Pre-mapped to Native Instruments instruments and effects
• The Smart Play feature can take your music to new places

10. IK Multi iRig Keys I/O 25

• 25 full-size, synth-action keys
• 8 pads, 5 knobs
• Audio interface - 2 in/2 out, plus a headphone jack
• Dimensions: 14.7" x 8.2" x 2.6"
• Weight: 2.8lbs

Our last controller in this list is a bit of a wildcard. It's unique in the world of MIDI controllers in that it features a built-in USB audio interface, recording at an impressive 24 bit/96kHz.

This makes the iRig the best portable MIDI keyboard for musicians who also need to capture live instruments while on the road.

The pads and knobs are assignable, and there are some rudimentary DAW controls available too. The two strips control pitch and modulation by default, but can also be assigned to other parameters.

The audio interface features a Neutrik mic/line combo input with phantom power, and a 1/4" jack input for recording instruments directly. Two 1/4" L/R outs and a 1/8" headphone jack give the user plenty of options for on-the-road monitoring.

The iRig is USB powered, with the option of using 4 AA batteries, or an external power supply. This would be a wise choice if you're recording onto your iOS device or using phantom power on the combo input.

If you're looking for a way to record and control your production on the road, the iRig is for you. If recording live sources is not on the cards for you, there are better options for your money.

• Midi controller & audio interface in one
• iOS compatible
• Perfect for the wandering musician who needs to capture live recordings

There you have it! A full run down of some of the best mini MIDI keyboards money can buy. Now, the decision is yours. Have fun making music as a nomad, and don't forget you can give your masterpieces the final polishing touches right here on eMastered !

Bring your songs to life with professional quality mastering, in seconds!

Audio production tips and tricks from eMastered’s Grammy winning founders, straight to your inbox every week.

7 Best MIDI Keyboards For Music Production & Performance

• March 31, 2023
• 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)

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

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

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.

• Spontaneous polyphonic sound control
• 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)

“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 .

• Clean aesthetic and manageable weight
• Impressive instant-access controls
• Excellent connectivity option for analog/modular gear
• Analog Lab V presets are endless fun
• Bundled software and freebies add value
• 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 

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
• Top-notch graphical displays
• Improved DAW integration features for all major DAWs
• Perfect to drive Maschine MK3 software
• 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)

“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.

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

“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
• Motorized ALPS fader
• Ideal for controller
• Fairly portable for the size
• 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)!

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.

Related Posts

Ableton Push 3 Has Arrived: First Impressions

• May 23, 2023

Launchpad Pro vs Push 2 (Helping You Make The Right Choice)

• November 16, 2022

7 Best MIDI Keyboards (For Beginners)

• November 15, 2022

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Post Comment

• Account Details
• X-Large Mix
• Mixing Addons
• Audio Mastering
• Mastering Addons
• How It Works
• Upload Audio
• Request Revision
• Rate Our Services

• 9 Best Midi Keyboards 2024 | Top Controllers For Every Budget

by Mixing Monster | Last updated Aug 2, 2024

Gear | Mixing | Mastering | Recording | Editing | Music

Home > Blog >  Studio Gear > Recording Gear

Disclosure :  Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Read our full affiliate disclosure here .

MIDI keyboards are integral tools for musicians, producers, and hobbyists, offering the crucial tactile interface needed for composing digital music. They bridge musical ideas and the vast array of virtual instruments in today’s digital audio workstations. Selecting the right MIDI keyboard can elevate your music production to new heights, providing an expressive and intuitive way to create melodies, harmonies, and beats.

MIDI keyboards, or Musical Instrument Digital Interface keyboards, allow for transmitting musical performance information between electronic devices. They don’t generate sound independently but control software instruments or hardware synthesizers. These keyboards come in various sizes, from portable 25-key models to full 88-key instruments, mirroring a traditional piano. Features such as weighted keys, touch sensitivity, aftertouch, and integration capabilities significantly affect the playability and responsiveness of the device. MIDI keyboards also often include additional control options like pads, knobs, and faders to manipulate music in real time.

When we’re in the market for a new MIDI keyboard, we consider the number of keys and critical action types, including performance controls, compatibility with our software, and its connectivity options. Moreover, build quality, portability, and price range are important considerations, especially when balancing budget constraints against professional needs. Our collective experience has shown that it’s not just about having many features but finding a harmonious balance that matches our workflow and enhances our creative process.

Thus, we’ve dedicated time to evaluating a variety of MIDI keyboards to guide you in finding the one that best fits your artistic demands and budget. Whether performing live, composing in a studio, or just beginning your musical journey, a well-chosen MIDI keyboard can be a pivotal component of your musical arsenal.

• In this article, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best MIDI Keyboards  on the market.
• MIDI keyboards are categorized into 3 sections: Best Budget MIDI Keyboards Best Midrange MIDI Keyboards Best High-End MIDI Keyboards
• Each section contains: 3 MIDI Keyboards ordered by price (low > high)

Table Of Contents

• 1. What Are The Best MIDI Keyboards?
• Best Budget MIDI Keyboards
• Best Midrange MIDI Keyboards
• Best High-End MIDI Keyboards
• 2. What Is A MIDI Keyboard?
• 3. MIDI Keyboard Buying Guide
• 4. Finding Your Perfect MIDI Keyboard: Key Takeaways

• Featured Articles

• You Might Also Be Interested In

• Share This Article!
• Thank You For Reading!

Thank you for reading our post! We hope you found the insights both informative and valuable. We welcome your thoughts and concerns on the topic, so please feel free to contact us anytime. We’d love to hear from you!

Mixing Monster is a professional music studio with over 25 years of experience in music production and audio engineering. We help people worldwide achieve  the perfect tone for their music.

• 6) What are some top MIDI keyboards available for under 0?

VOYAGE portable piano

Made for traveling.

Portable piano keyboards are often too cumbersome or heavy to carry and limit the possibility of practicing your instrument on the go. Thanks to its unique modular design, the Voyage piano will help you travel with a fullsize keyboard. Slim and lightweight, the Voyage is a portable piano keyboard that will fit in your backpack or carry-on bag and will become your ideal journey companion, may you travel by train, by car, by plane or even by bike. As opposed to foldable piano keyboards, the Voyage is made of modules so you can dispatch it into several bags. Easy to setup, the Voyage can be powered by USB charger, powerbank or smartphone and travel anywhere in the world.

Made for the musicians

The Voyage has the features most keyboard players will need. No more, no less : • Fullsize keys • Sturdy assembly mechanism - can be played on a X-stand • Connector for sustain pedal • Works as a MIDI controller (via USB-MIDI connector) to us standard music softwares/synths such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, GarageBand, Pianoteq ... • Includes a Sound-Bank with 100+ instruments and stereo headphones output for on-the-go use • Includes an configuration app to adjust MIDI assignable controls (volume / effects / instrument selection / pitch-bend / modulation joystick) and keyboard behavior (octave shift / transpose / velocity curve)

Available in three sizes

The Voyage can be purchased in various sizes and thanks to its modular design it will adapt to your needs and mode of transportation. If you need to save space and don't need the whole range of octaves. By assembling Voyage modules you can travel with a 88, 73, 64, 49 or 40 keys keyboard.

Voyage Model-A 88 Keys

By assembling the 4 modules of this model, you will obtain a full 88 keys keyboard. By assembling only 3 or 2 modules, you'll get either a 64 or a 40 keys keyboard.

This version includes : • 1 controller module of 15 keys • 2 keyboard modules of 24 keys • 1 end module of 25 keys

Voyage Model-A 73 Keys

By assembling the 3 modules of this model, you will obtain a comfortable 73 keys keyboard. By assembling only 2 modules, you'll get a 49 keys keyboard.

This version includes : • 1 controller module of 24 keys • 1 keyboard module of 24 keys • 1 end module of 25 keys

Voyage Model-A 49 Keys

By assembling the 2 modules of this model, you will obtain a compact 49 keys keyboard.

This version includes : • 1 controller module of 24 keys • 1 end module of 25 keys

• svg]:fill-accent-900">

The best MIDI keyboards in 2024

By Adam Douglas

Updated on Mar 25, 2024 8:35 PM EDT

17 minute read

Best overall

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88

Best for beginners.

Akai Pro MPK mini mk3

Best weighted keyboard.

M-Audio Hammer 88

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

It’s never been easier (or cheaper!) to make music, thanks to computers and affordable MIDI keyboards. Until recently, even the most basic of home studios seemingly required an advanced degree in electronics to understand how to hook everything up—to say nothing of the cost. Nowadays, you have access to incredibly powerful, surprisingly intuitive music-making software and hardware. And at the center of it all should be one of the best MIDI keyboards.

The right keyboard lets you input all those notes and chords that will set the world on fire. Don’t start popping corks yet, though, as you still need to choose the kind of MIDI keyboard that’s best for you. It’s a little more complicated than just getting any old thing with piano keys and plugging it into your computer. The world of MIDI controller keyboards is broad, with more variables than a badly planned high school science fair project. How many keys do you need? What kind of connectivity is best for you? How much money do you have to spend? You’ll need to consider all of these (and more) before you can start collecting royalty checks from all your future hits. Here are our picks.

• Best overall: Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88
• Best for beginners: Akai Pro MPK mini mk3
• Best weighted keyboard: M-Audio Hammer 88
• Best small keyboard: Arturia KeyStep Pro
• Best for Ableton: Novation Launchkey MK III 61
• Best budget: Nektar SE25

How we chose the best MIDI keyboards

There is a bewildering number of MIDI keyboards on the market, with options that range in key number, size, and weight to ones offering more esoteric extras, like CV/gate connectivity for interfacing with modular synthesizers. Some are for general use, while others have been designed to work best with specific digital audio workstations (DAWs) and music production software . What all of them offer, however, is compatibility with MIDI, or Musical Instrument Digital Interface —an industry-standard connection/communications protocol that converts interactions with the keyboard into instructions for compatible interfaces , computers, musical instruments, and other outboard processors/sound modules.

We looked at all of these options when hammering out our list of the best MIDI keyboards. To narrow down our top controllers for each category, we made use of our own experience as experts in the field—specifically, I’ve spent three decades as both a professional musician and writer for top music technology publications, including Attack Magazine , Computer Music , MusicTech , Reverb.com , IGN.com, and more. In addition, we drew on the opinions of our peers and factored in critical consensus, user impressions, as well as the use cases of famous music producers and composers.

The best MIDI keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

Because MIDI keyboards don’t make any sound themselves, it can be tempting to scrimp on one and put that money toward something else in the studio (maybe you’re eyeing a new laptop or a fine new monitor to make your session look as sweet as it sounds). But when you consider that your MIDI keyboard will likely sit at the center of your studio monitors or live rig and that you’re going to be putting your hands on it more than any other piece of gear you own, you start to see why investment is worth it. So, as the price often will determine not only quality but the number of options, it can be helpful to start with a budget and then work from there, with any additional necessities like knobs and sliders following suit. No matter your budget, though, you can be confident that all of the keyboards on this list are worthy of your hard-earned cash.

Take Kontrol

Why it made the cut: A full keybed plus smart DAW and computer integration means you’ll finally take your eyes away from the computer and focus on the music.

• Keys: 88 full-size weighted keys
• Connectivity: USB 2.0, MIDI in/out, 2 pedal controller inputs
• Compatibility: Mac/PC
• Fully weighted hammer-action keys
• Two high-res color displays
• DAW integration
• No sliders or drum pads
• Best with Native Instruments Komplete software

Modern music production is all about the DAW, or the digital audio workstation. Because of this, we tend to keep our eyes trained on the computer monitor, for better or for worse. German company Native Instruments thinks this is for the worse and so has designed a series of MIDI keyboards that encourage you to look away from the computer and interact more with the keyboard itself. Called Komplete Kontrol, they range from the small to the large, with our pick for best overall MIDI keyboard, the S88, at the top of the line.

As the name suggests, the S88 has 88 keys, with a fully weighted Fatar keybed with hammer action—something that piano players looking for an acoustic piano feel and level of control will surely appreciate. It also has two control pedal inputs to ensure that your playing can be as realistic as it needs to be. To this keybed it adds a row of eight rotary encoders and a slick four-directional push encoder for navigating the two high-res color displays. The latter features are how NI gets your eyeballs off the monitor. With deep DAW integration, this full-size MIDI keyboard can replicate portions of your DAW on the twin screens, allowing you to do tasks like mixing from within the keyboard. It also integrates with software via the included Komplete Kontrol application, which can run standalone or as a DAW plugin. This maps Native Instruments and participating third-party software instantly to the knobs, saving you the trouble of having to create MIDI maps to control things like filter cutoff.

Komplete Kontrol S88 is not cheap, but as a fully featured MIDI controller with a piano-like keyboard, it’s just begging to be the centerpiece of your home studio. For musicians who like the functionality but don’t need all the keys, look to the Komplete Kontrol S49 or Kontrol S61 for the same extras without the extra octaves.

Everything You Need

Why it made the cut: Keys, pads, knobs, and even a free bundled DAW—what more could a beginner want?

• Keys: 25 mini keys
• Connectivity: USB 2.0, sustain pedal input
• 8 pads straight from the MPC line
• Lightweight and portable
• Includes free MPC Beats DAW
• Mini keys could be better

Want to make beats but don’t know where to begin? As long as you have a computer, Akai Pro’s MPK mini mk3 can provide a solid and affordable entry point into the world of music production.

For those not in the know, Akai Pro is the company behind the MPC line of hardware samplers, a series of grooveboxes that laid down the blueprint for hip-hop and other genres of music. What does this have to do with a MIDI keyboard? The MPK mini mk3 (the best-selling MIDI keyboard in the world, according to Akai Pro) borrows some of that MPC hardware magic and pairs it with MPC Beats, the DAW version of the music-making operating system inside the machines. For around $100, you’re making music with the best of them.

Think of the MPK mini mk3 as an all-in-one MIDI controller. It’s got 25 mini keys, eight drum pads taken straight from the MPC with both channel and polyphonic aftertouch for complete timbre control (unheard of at this price point), eight endless encoders for controlling software instrument parameters, a mappable X-Y joystick, an arpeggiator, and even an OLED screen for visual feedback. It’s light enough to take on the go and solid enough to not slip around your studio when you bang out drum beats.

While the action on the keys could be better, for this price you’re getting a lot of controller for not much money. It’s hard to not recommend it more strongly for many, not just as the best beginner MIDI keyboard.

For The Players

Why it made the cut: Grand piano action for around $500.

• Connectivity: USB 2.0, MIDI out, 3 pedal ports
• Gorgeous weighted piano feel
• Affordable price
• Lacks additional controls

There are music producers, and then there are musicians. While those in the former category want all manner of control with their MIDI keyboard, the latter really care about just one thing: the keys. If you’re primarily a keyboardist and your means of expression is your instrument, you want a MIDI keyboard that will provide a piano-like experience. You want M-Audio’s Hammer 88.

A well-made keyboard with a minimal aesthetic, Hammer 88 offers seven octaves of velocity-sensitive and weighted keys. They have a substantial, almost acoustic feel to them and piano players will take to them instantly. Part of the piano experience is using the pedals, so Hammer 88 provides three pedal ports: one each for sustain, soft, and expression. There’s even a music rest included.

While M-Audio’s keyboard doesn’t offer a lot in terms of hands-on control—no arrays of encoders or sliders here—it does make concessions to modern synth players, with pitch and modulation wheels, as well as two basic selection buttons. A bundled application allows users to set up splits and other configurations.

At only around $500, M-Audio’s Hammer 88 is a striking bargain. And, if you really find yourself needing drum pads, M-Audio makes one with additional controls . Players, do seek this one out.

Best small keyboard

Step into the hardware world.

Why it made the cut: A plethora of control options elevate this Swiss army knife of a MIDI keyboard.

• Keys: 37 slim keys
• Connectivity: 4 x CV/gate/modulation output sets, 8 drum gate outputs, 1 MIDI in, 2 MIDI outs, USB, clock synchronization in/out, metronome line out, sustain port
• 4 sequencer lanes
• Analog and digital drum triggering
• DAW control mode
• White color may turn some off

Most of the MIDI keyboards on this list are designed to work in tandem with computers. Yet there’s a growing movement of musicians breaking away from the screen and going DAWless. This includes modular synthesizer users, for whom experimentation, free from the rigid structure of a computer-based sequencer, is key. If this sounds like you, you need Arturia’s Keystep Pro.

A 37-key controller, the Keystep Pro combines sequencing and MIDI note triggering into one device. It has four sequencer lanes with one doubling as a drum programmer. Sequencing here goes beyond just note on/off, but also includes gate length, note offset, velocity, and more. Think of it as a box of tools to experiment with notes and patterns. The Keysetp Pro can transmit control information via MIDI over USB or five-pin DIN MIDI cable, or through control voltages—the language of modular and vintage synths. Of course, Arturia’s MIDI keyboard can also work with a DAW, with a customizable controller mode for mapping to soft synths and other applications.

Because it does so much, the Keystep Pro is a little pricey for a MIDI keyboard with mini keys. Should you want something similarly unconventional but with a friendlier price tag, Roli’s Lumi Keys and Keith McMillen’s QuNexus Red are inspiring alternatives.

Best for Ableton

Live and direct.

Why it made the cut: It’s the most, well, able-bodied controller for everything the Ableton power user needs.

• Keys: 61 full-size keys
• Connectivity: USB, MIDI out, sustain pedal port
• Effortless Ableton integration
• Plenty of knobs, sliders, and buttons
• Excellent price
• Non-Ableton users may feel left out

Despite what some may argue, all DAWs are not the same. Sure, they’ll all get you to the same place—a (hopefully) finished song—but the way they transport you there can often be very different. A case in point is Ableton Live. With its two views and focus on clips and live performance, it does things very differently than, say, ProTools. Wouldn’t it make sense to have a MIDI keyboard that was made just for Ableton?

Novation has been making Ableton-focused MIDI keyboards and controllers for almost a decade now and the Launchkey MK III series is the culmination of this experience, with 25-, 37-, 49-, and 61-key models available. The flagship model, the MK III 61, is our pick for the best MIDI keyboard for Ableton.

As you’d expect, the Launchkey MK III 61 integrates fluidly with Live, so much so that using the controller becomes second nature. Clip launching, view changing, recording, even mixing can all be handled right from the keyboard, with the plethora of knobs and sliders making this easy to do. It has a host of additional, non-DAW functionality as well, with scale and chord modes and a deep arpeggiator to aid in your creativity. The full-size keys feel nice as well, particularly for the price point, which is shockingly low for a device like this.

While it does work with other DAWs like Logic Pro X, it’s not as slickly integrated. But if you’re an Ableton power user, Novation’s Launchkey MK III 61 is practically a requirement. (FL Studio producers, check out Novation’s FLkey 37 , the world’s only dedicated FL Studio MIDI keyboard.)

Best budget

Small and sweet.

Why it made the cut: It’s lightweight, eminently usable, and so cheap it’s practically an impulse purchase.

• Connectivity: Mini USB
• Compatibility: Mac/PC/iOS
• Extremely lightweight
• Useful functionality
• No knobs or sliders

Not everyone needs an all-singing, all-dancing MIDI keyboard. Sometimes, a small budget keyboard fits the bill perfectly. Whether that’s because you’re working with limited studio space or you want to take your music production on the road, tiny is sometimes just fine. Tiny and cheap is even better, and tiny, cheap, and quality is the budget musician’s trifecta.

MIDI controller company Nektar offers a range of controllers. Still, we’re particularly smitten with the SE25, a two-octave MIDI keyboard that manages to be just about everything you need in not a lot of space—and for an attractive price. At only 33.5cm x 10cm x 2.1cm, it’s not much bigger than the 25-key MIDI controller itself. This makes it perfect for plopping down on a desk with a laptop and getting to work. It’s also astonishingly lightweight, with its 400 grams and bus power making it a no-brainer for on-the-go production.

While it doesn’t have any knobs or sliders (there’s no room!), it does have six buttons that, when pressed in certain combinations, give you access to a surprisingly large amount of control, from MIDI channel changes and note harmonizations to basic DAW integration.

This all adds up to a budget MIDI keyboard that is worth a look—and a play.

What to consider when buying the best MIDI keyboards

Because of the wide variety of models on the market, all with different feature sets, it’s best to first decide how you plan to use your MIDI keyboard. This will largely depend on your playing style, as well as possibly genre. A lo-fi hip-hop producer will have very different needs than a concert pianist, for example. 

First, consider the keys. How many do you need? A full piano keyboard has 88 keys (key count can also be expressed in the number of octaves). Keys come in different sizes too, from full-size down to mini. There’s also key weight. Weighted keys will give you more of a piano feel—necessary for a jazz pianist, not so much for an EDM producer. 

Next, decide how many knobs and sliders you need. Many MIDI keyboards can double as studio control centers, with knobs mapped to your DAW or soft synths. You may want trigger pads, either for finger drumming or launching clips in a DAW like Ableton Live. Connectivity should also be on your list. Basic MIDI keyboards will have a single USB connector, while more complex ones could have DIN MIDI ports, CV/gate, or jacks for expression pedals. Most will be PC or Mac-ready, but some may also work with an iOS device.

Is portability important? A MIDI keyboard that can function on the go will have a different feature set than one meant to hold down the studio fort. Finally, your budget will determine how far from basic you can get. An 88-key keyboard with knobs, sliders, and plenty of connectivity could cost as much as a new synthesizer—or more!

What is a MIDI keyboard?

It can be helpful to define just what a MIDI keyboard is. Think of a MIDI keyboard as a silent synthesizer. It has piano-type keys and possibly other controls, but it doesn’t produce sound on its own. It interfaces with a computer, device, or another electronic instrument via MIDI and allows the user to play the destination instrument’s sounds remotely. Additional controls like knobs or sliders send control information to the instrument at the other end. This is useful for changing the timbre of a sound, such as opening and closing a low-pass filter, or for adjusting the volume on a virtual mixer . Additional controls can include transport buttons for starting and stopping playback on a DAW, sequencers for generating musical passages independent of a DAW, and buttons for triggering drums or other samples. MIDI keyboards can be as complex and full-featured as you need them to be, or, conversely, as simple.

Do I really need a MIDI keyboard?

While a MIDI keyboard can certainly aid in music composition, it isn’t strictly necessary. Most DAWs will allow you to trigger notes via a QWERTY keyboard. You can also draw them directly into the MIDI sequencer section of your DAW, which might even be the preferred method of note input for some producers. But for many—and especially for pianists playing classical or jazz music—this is nothing but cumbersome and frustrating. The piano keyboard hasn’t changed much in function in hundreds of years, and there’s a reason for that. It’s an effective way to get musical ideas from your head, through your fingers, and out into the world. You might be able to get by without a MIDI keyboard but it’s certainly a whole lot more fun with one.

The number of keys a MIDI keyboard should have depends entirely on how you plan to use it. A full-size piano has 88 keys, or seven octaves and an additional three keys below bottom C. If you are a piano player or want a MIDI keyboard to learn to play piano, this is what you should be aiming for. Most synthesizers have 61 keys or five octaves, making this something of a standard MIDI keyboard size for electronic musicians and producers. Small and portable MIDI keyboards can go down to as low as 25 keys or two octaves. While this is fine for a portable device, it could be restrictive for day-to-day use, especially if you like to play two-handed chords.

The majority of MIDI keyboards are made to interface with a computer via USB. These may even draw power through USB, meaning it may not work as a standalone controller. There are some, however, that will play nicely with other instruments or even iOS devices. These provide their own power and have different connectivity options, such as five-pin DIN MIDI ports for connecting to synthesizers and drum machines and CV/gate for interfacing with modular gear and older electronic instruments. For iOS devices, you’ll need a MIDI keyboard that doesn’t draw too much current as well as a lightning adapter. A powered USB hub could be an option for working with higher-draw MIDI keyboards.

If you already have a synthesizer or two, you could probably use one as a MIDI keyboard. Provided it has MIDI, it will at the very least trigger notes and transmit basic performance data, like pitch bends. For example, we use a vintage Roland Alpha Juno-2 as a keyboard controller as we like the action on the keys. However, it doesn’t have any knobs or sliders, so is not a perfect solution. Synthesizer manufacturers recognize that musicians may want to use their instruments for this purpose and so may include control modes in their synths. This is not ubiquitous, however. Synthesizer technology has changed a lot over the five decades they’ve been around, so older models may not offer full compatibility with modern DAWs. MIDI keyboards are designed with modern control and functionality in mind and so are still the best bet.

Final thoughts on the best MIDI keyboards

While we’ve focused on things like budget, performance, and options in this list, any instrument or device in your studio should contribute to the ultimate goal of making music. So, beyond everything else, you should go with the MIDI keyboard that is most creatively inspiring to you. Whether that means flashy colors, a minimal aesthetic, or one that has every bell and whistle imaginable depends entirely on your circumstances. Your MIDI keyboard will be the musical conduit that connects your imagination to reality. Make sure that it fulfills that function, too.

Universal MIDI controller

KeyLab mk3 is an advanced MIDI controller designed to meet the demands of professional use and integrate seamlessly with software and hardware instruments. With a pro-grade semi-weighted keybed, touch-sensitive controls and innovative creative features encased in a durable, high-quality construction - discover a keyboard built without compromise that you can rely on at every turn.

Or find a dealer near you →

• Included Software

Premium keys for modern creatives

From its design, to its pro-grade keybed and seamless software control - KeyLab mk3 leaves no stone unturned.

Whether sculpting a studio masterpiece or channeling the raw energy of a live performance, KeyLab mk3 offers a high-quality construction and elevated playing experience that will inspire your very best composition.

With touch-sensitive controls, a fully redesigned aftertouch, semi-weighted keybed and flexible creative features; discover the perfect balance between engineering excellence and musical articulation.

Ultimate creative catalyst

KeyLab mk3 isn’t just an extension of your setup, its an extension of yourself.

Designed to enhance every aspect of your music-making process, from integrating effortlessly with your DAW to supporting musical ideation - take full command of your setup like never before.

Superior playability

Combining a redesigned semi-weighted keybed with a high-quality construction, KeyLab mk3 meets the demands of professional use while ensuring reliability and durability.

Deep software integration

KeyLab mk3 offers advanced connectivity with all major DAWs, allowing you to view contextual information on-screen and have complete control of your music making software and instruments.

Fully-featured

From customizable MIDI settings and intuitive controls to advanced creative features that support musical ideation - KeyLab mk3 is a powerful ally both in the studio and on stage.

Pro software included

With Analog Lab Pro, Ableton Live Lite and a range of timeless instruments from the world-renowned V Collection, discover a suite of pro-grade software to start making music right away.

Unprecedented control

Effortlessly streamline your creative process.

Use the pads and sliders to trigger clips and control your mix in-the-moment. Ready to record? Navigate your DAW and project in real-time without slowing your momentum.

Need to edit an instrument? Whether it's a drum rack in Ableton Live or an Arturia plugin, everything is perfectly assigned, ensuring an intuitive and uninterrupted workflow.

Redesigned keyboard

Experience unparalleled control of synth and piano sounds with an updated aftertouch keybed design. With keyboard balance, weighting and spring tension full reworked. Discover a playing experience that will take your music to new heights.

Advanced visual interface

Take full control of your settings, parameters and custom mappings with KeyLab mk3's advanced visual interface. The 3.5” 480x320px full-color screen ensures intuitive navigation and real-time feedback.

Expanded pad capabilities

Unleash your creativity with KeyLab mk3's enhanced pad capabilities. With 4 Pad Banks of 12 velocity and pressure-sensitive pads, seamlessly switch between finger drumming, clip launching, and endless mapping possibilities.

Touch-sensitive knobs

Achieve a greater degree of precision with KeyLab mk3's nine touch-sensitive 360° rotary potentiometers: offering responsive, smooth control that allows you to fine-tune your sound and workflow with ease.

Touch-sensitive faders

Adjust your track levels, envelope settings, and custom parameters with KeyLab mk3's nine faders - providing the responsive and precise control that puts you in command of your sound.

Connectivity you need

Instantly transition from composing with your favourite hardware synth to managing your DAW projects with KeyLab mk3's dedicated MIDI I/O and DAW mappings - keeping you in control.

Advanced creative features

Discover musical serendipity with a range of innovative creative tools.

Create fun ever-changing melodies, unique chord voicings and always stay in key without thinking twice. From Scale mode to the Arpeggiator and Chord play, these tools allow you to experiment and compose with ease so you can bring your ideas to life.

Play rich, full, powerful chords with a single key and make the most of Keylab 3’ smart voicing - great for when you need quick inspiration with new progressions.

Set your playing free and never go out of key with KeyLab mk3’s Scale mode, which quickly locks the keybed to one of several built-in scales. Wrong notes? Never again.

Arpeggiator

Turn chords and notes into vibrant melodies and generative patterns with a built-in Arpeggiator, complete with Hold function so you can go no-hands.

Deep integration

Keylab mk3 takes frictionless software control to another level..

Adaptive mapping allows you to tweak your sound settings, launch clips & scenes, and navigate around any project in real-time - all without ever leaving the controls.

KeyLab mk3 integrates seamlessly with your favorite software and enables advanced user programs to support your workflow where you need it most - so you can stay in the flow.

A closer look

Explore the controls, layout, and creative features of KeyLab mk3 in detail, from its premium keybed to performance features.

Performance Controls

Bend your notes and modulate your sounds with the pitch bend & mod wheels. Transpose your keyboard by semitones or full octaves with transpose controls.

Chord, Scale, Arp & Hold

Engage Chord Play or Scale mode, activate the Arpeggiator, or use the Hold function to sustain notes, chords, or arpeggios even after you’ve released the keys, perfect for creating evolving musical textures.

Bank, prog, MIDI, settings buttons

Switch effortlessly between programs, pad banks and MIDI channels, plus quickly access the settings menu.

Velocity and pressure-sensitive RGB pads

Play MIDI notes, tap drums and samples, trigger clips. The RGB lighting keeps you visually in tune with your performance.

Transport controls & DAW commands

Take full control of your recording software with custom scripts and compatibility with support for MCU/HUI protocols.

Display & Contextual Buttons

See real-time feedback on your project and sound with a bright 3.5” full-color display. Use the corresponding 8 contextual buttons to let you navigate your sounds and project in real-time.

Touch-sensitive 360˚ potentiometers

See the current encoder value simply by touching it, and adjust crucial controls with ultra-smooth action.

Fine-tune the level of the tracks in your DAW and other crucial parameters with nine smooth faders, providing precise control at your fingertips.

Redesigned keybed

Durable, release-velocity-sensitive hybrid-feel keys tweaked for optimal accuracy and expressivity, thanks to Aftertouch, will capture every nuance of your performance.

Kensington security slot

Protect your keyboard with a compatible security lock.

Pedal Input

Connect a pedal and assign the input to Sustain, Modulation, or Expression mode, adding another layer of control to your performance.

MIDI in/out

Control any MIDI-compatible gear, like synths and drum machines. Sync external MIDI gear to KeyLab mk3 for a fully integrated setup.

Bus-powered USB-C connectivity ensures compatibility with modern setups and provides a reliable power source.

Commitment to quality

Every unit goes through 180 individual tests to guarantee impeccable, long-lasting performance.

From circuit boards, to keybed tuning and final assembly, KeyLab mk3 is subjected to rigorous testing to ensure the professional quality and flawless finish your studio deserves.

Its construction is also designed to stand the test of time, with high-density plastic, ruggedised knobs and real-wood panelling included as standard.

Fine keyboard tuning

Real wood panelling

High quality materials

Play your way

Whether in the studio or on stage, KeyLab mk3 has everything you need to bring your music to life.

Enhance your studio workflow

Discover new levels of studio efficiency with KeyLab mk3, offering a bridge between you and your favorite production tools. A centrepiece that lets you go from controlling custom parameters to gliding around DAW projects with ease.

Designed for composers

Excel at expressive compositions with a keybed designed to match your musicality. With effortless preset selection and hands-free DAW control, KeyLab mk3 is the perfect solution for demanding composers.

Reliable on stage

Access all the parameters you need when performing. Change instruments, trigger drums, adjust effects and split your keybed all from the front panel - so you can focus on what matters most: expressivity, energy, pleasure.

Artists corner

Boumidjal x, the orphanage, find your fit.

Need a bigger note range? Trying to save desk space? Want a darker aesthetic to fit your stage setup? KeyLab mk3 comes with 49 & 61-key options, both available in black or white.

Key Lab 49 mk3

Black Color

White Color

Key Lab 61 mk3

Pro software Included

From faithfully recreated acoustic instruments and pianos to a myriad of classic and modern synths sounds, KeyLab mk3 has you covered.

KeyLab mk3's focused controls give you quick access to the most useful & intuitive elements of your project & sound without complicating things.

Thousands of synth & keys presets

A library of the finest basses, fattest synths, smoothest orchestral sounds, and more, from vintage to modern, powered by V Collection, Augmented Series, and Pigments.

Music recording software

Record, perform, and produce anything with an introduction to one of the hottest DAWs in the business, including instrument presets, drums, FX, MIDI clips, and more.

The greatest of all time

A potent lead and bass synth that recreates the awe-inspiring character of its analog ancestor.

Universal piano expression

Array of production-worthy pianos, brought to life with dynamic physical modeling.

Augmented STRINGS

Acoustic instruments reinvented

An innovative instrument combining rich sampled strings with state-of-the-art synthesis.

Rev PLATE-140

Reborn plate reverb titan

A classic, full bodied studio plate reverb to add that sought-after space to your mix.

Intimate upright piano

Enjoy the cheery, vintage sound of a Century-old upright piano, recorded to deliver charm and intimate character to your mix.

Millions of samples & loops

A 2-month subscription to Loopcloud with millions of hi-def royalty-free samples, from lo-fi drums to vocal one-shots, with 2GB of samples including a welcome pack and a specially-crafted Arturia selection.

Learn with KeyLab mk3

Improve your pad & keyboard skills with a subscription to Melodics, offering 40 lessons, tips, and musical hacks that are fun, easy, and tailored to your style.

Main Features

49 & 61-note redesigned keybed.

• Release velocity-sensitive
• Semi-weighted keyboard synth-action feel
• Channel aftertouch

Pads & controls

• 1 clickable encoder
• 9 360° rotary encoders
• 9 x 50mm faders
• 8 transport switches
• 4 command switches
• 1 modulation wheel & pitch wheel
• 12 touch & pressure-sensitive pads

Advanced display

• Full Color 3.5" 320x480px screen with 8 contextual buttons for intuitive control and feedback

Smart features

Software integration.

• Seamless integration with Analog Lab V and V Collection instruments: select sounds, browse presets, smart-assigned controls
• Advanced integration with FL Studio, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, Bitwig Studio
• Also compatible with MCU/HUI control
• Up to 6 user presets for a totally customizable experience

Included Software titles & services

• Analog Lab Pro software with 2000+ sounds
• Ableton Live Lite
• Mini V, Augmented Strings, Piano V, Rev PLATE-140
• 2-month Loopcloud subscription
• Melodics subscription for 40 lessons

Connectivity

• USB-C connects to computers and MIDI Control Center
• MIDI 5-pin DIN i/o for connection to external instruments, gear
• Control input for pedal: sustain, expression, or footswitch
• USB-C powered

Platform specifications

• Win 10+ (64bit)
• 4 cores CPU, 3.4 GHz (4.0 GHz Turbo-boost)
• 3GB free hard disk space
• OpenGL 2.0 compatible GPU
• ARM processors not supported on Windows

Required configuration

• Works in Standalone, VST, AAX, Audio Unit.
• * Analog Lab not compatible with NKS

• 4 cores CPU, 3.4 GHz (4.0 GHz Turbo-boost) or M1 CPU

Work with ASC

• An elegant and simple solution to help you install, activate, and update your Arturia software instruments.

What's in the box

Box contents.

• KeyLab mk3 Unit
• USB-A to USB-C cable
• Registration card

Size & weight for 61 keys

• Size : 34,4 x 11 x 2,3 inches (873 x 278 x 57mm)
• Weight : 18,7 lbs. (6,8 kg)

Size & weight for 49 keys

• Size : 31 x 11 x 2,3 inches (787 x 278 x 57mm)
• Weight : 17,4 lbs. (6,1 kg)

Arturia's KeyLab MIDI controller upgraded to mk3 with new keybed, bigger screen and touch-sensitive controls

Arturia has announced updated 49 and 61-key versions of the KeyLab, its flagship MIDI controller, with an improved keybed, redesigned interface and more. Keylab mk3 is the successor to the KeyLab mk2 , released in 2021. 

Available in both black and white versions, KeyLab mk3 sports a handsome new design somewhat reminiscent of the Arturia AstroLab , a stage keyboard unveiled earlier this year. 

The layout of the controls is largely the same as the mk2, with a few notable differences. Arturia has dropped a row of pads, so you'll now have 12 velocity-sensitive pads to play with instead of 16. Despite this, Arturia has added four 'banks' of pads that are accessible through buttons alongside, so technically you'll now have 48 at your disposal.

Another striking addition is the 3.5", 480x320 screen in the centre, which is now in colour. Along with the upgraded screen, the most significant improvement to the mk3 is its enhanced, "pro-grade" keybed, which Arturia tells us gives you greater control of synth and piano sounds thanks to a full redesign affecting keyboard balance, weighting and spring tension. It's velocity-sensitive and semi-weighted, but there's no sign of the polyphonic aftertouch that many KeyLab users were hoping for.

KeyLab is a MIDI controller that specializes in DAW control, arriving with pre-mapped templates that can be used to control many of the major DAWs, including Logic Pro, FL Studio and Ableton Live. KeyLab has dedicated controls for transport, along with handy features like Undo, Redo, Save and Quantize. Along with its nine faders, its newly touch-sensitive set of nine 360° rotary potentiometers will be useful for tweaking sounds and balancing mixes.

Arturia has also added a new arpeggiator and Chord and Scale Modes. Chord Mode assigns chords to single keys across the keyboard while Scale Mode locks the keyboard to one of a selection of pre-defined scales, making it easier to perform melodies and chord sequences.

KeyLab mk3 arrives bundled with Arturia's largest software bundle yet, a collection that includes Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab V, a software instrument that offers thousands of presets taken from its V Collection bundle of synth plugins. You'll also get Mini V, Arturia's Minimoog emulation, along with two piano instruments and a two-month subscription to Loopcloud.

The 49-key version of KeyLab mk3 is priced at €449 and the 61-key is €549. 

Find out more on Arturia's website.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

• World Atlas /
• Western Siberia /
• Novosibirsk Oblast /
• Novosibirsk /
• Area around 55° 11' 31" N, 82° 31' 30" E /

Physical Map of Novosibirsk

This is not just a map. It's a piece of the world captured in the image.

The flat physical map represents one of many map types available. Look at Novosibirsk, Novosibirsk Oblast, Western Siberia, Russia from different perspectives.

Get free map for your website. Discover the beauty hidden in the maps. Maphill is more than just a map gallery.

• Free map
• Panoramic 4

Shaded Relief

Maps of novosibirsk.

Maphill is a collection of map images. This physical map of Novosibirsk is one of them. Click on the Detailed button under the image to switch to a more detailed map.

See Novosibirsk from a different perspective.

Each map type has its advantages. No map style is the best. The best is that Maphill lets you look at each place from many different angles.

Sure, this physical map is nice. But there is good chance you will like other map styles even more. Select another style in the above table. See Novosibirsk and Western Siberia from a different view.

What to do when you like this map?

If you like this Novosibirsk, Novosibirsk Oblast, Western Siberia, Russia map, please don't keep it to yourself. Give your friends a chance to see how the world converted to images looks like.

Share this map.

Use the buttons for Facebook, Twitter or Google+ to share a link to this physical map of Novosibirsk. Maphill is the largest map gallery on the web. The number of maps is, however, not the only reason to visit Maphill.

Get map of Novosibirsk for free.

You can embed, print or download the map just like any other image. All Novosibirsk and Western Siberia maps are available in a common image format. Free images are available under Free map link located above the map.

Is there anything more than this map?

Sure, there is. It has been said that Maphill maps are worth a thousand words. No doubt about that. But you can experience much more when you visit Novosibirsk.

Be inspired.

Western Siberia has a lot to offer. Each place is different. Each place is worth a visit. It will never be possible to capture all the beauty in the map.

Novosibirsk hotel deals.

If any of Maphill's maps inspire you to come to Novosibirsk, we would like to offer you access to wide selection of nearby hotels at low prices and with great customer service.

Thanks to our partnership with Booking.com you can take advantage of up to 50% discounts for hotels in many locations in the area of Western Siberia. Book hotels online and save money.

Novosibirsk hotels

See the full list of hotels in or close to Novosibirsk , the list of destinations in Novosibirsk , browse destinations in Novosibirsk Oblast , Western Siberia , Russia , Asia or choose from the below listed cities.

• Novosibirsk hotels »
• Hotels in Novosibirsk »
• Hotels in Novosibirsk Oblast »
• Hotels in Western Siberia »
• Hotels in Russia »
• Hotels in Asia »

Hotels in popular destinations in Novosibirsk

• Novolugovoye hotels »
• Kar'yer Mochishche hotels »
• Sadovyy hotels »
• Zavodskaya hotels »
• Matveyevka hotels »
• Pashino hotels »
• Nizhnyaya Yel'tsovka hotels »
• Michurino hotels »
• Berëzovyy Log hotels »
• Chemskiy hotels »
• Ozërnyy hotels »
• Cherbus' hotels »
• Katkovo hotels »
• Mochishche hotels »

Learn more about the map styles

Each map type offers different information and each map style is designed for a different purpose. Read about the styles and map projection used in the above map (Physical Map of Novosibirsk).

Physical map

Physical map illustrates the mountains, lowlands, oceans, lakes and rivers and other physical landscape features of Novosibirsk. Differences in land elevations relative to the sea level are represented by color.

Green color represents lower elevations, orange or brown indicate higher elevations, shades of grey are used for the highest mountain ranges in the world. Underwater topography is represented by blues. Darker blues are used for the deepest water, lighter shades of blue represent shallower water such as the continental shelf.

Geographic map projection

A map projection is a way how to transform points on a Earth to points on a map. This map of Novosibirsk uses Plate Carree projection. The Plate Carree projection is a simple cylindrical projection originated in the ancient times. It has straight and equally spaced meridians and parallels that meet at right angles.

All projections from a sphere to a plane are distorted. The drawback of the Plate Carree projection is that it doesn't make an attempt to compensate for these distortions. For the general view of Novosibirsk, this is not a significant problem. The detailed maps use the Mercator projection which preserves the shape of small areas better.

Locations near Novosibirsk

Destinations close to Novosibirsk sorted by distance.

• Zaton 4.7 km
• Bol'shaya Krivoshchëkova 7.2 km
• Kar'yer 8.0 km
• Bugry 8.3 km
• Kar'yer Mochishche 8.5 km
• Ust'-Inya 8.8 km
• Levoberezhniy 9.8 km
• Ozërnyy 10 km
• Kamenka 10 km
• Katkovo 11 km

Popular searches

A list of the most popular locations in Russia as searched by our visitors.

• Ural Mountains
• Kabardino-Balkarian Republic
• Kaliningrad Oblast
• Kursk Oblast

Recent searches

List of the locations in Russia that our users recently searched for.

• Udskaya Guba
• Amur Oblast
• Bagaevskaya
• Pskov Oblast
• Ladozhskoe Ozero
• Republic of Dagestan

The Maphill difference

It's neither this physical map nor any other of the many millions of maps. The value of a map gallery is not determined by the number of pictures, but by the possibility to see the world from many different perspectives.

We unlock the value hidden in the geographic data. Thanks to automating the complex process of turning data into map graphics, we are able to create maps in higher quality, faster and cheaper than was possible before.

Forever free

We created Maphill to make the web a more beautiful place. Without you having to pay for it. Maphill maps are and will always be available for free.

Real Earth data

Do you think the maps are too beautiful not to be painted? No, this is not art. All 2D maps of Novosibirsk are created based on real Earth data. This is how the world looks like.

Easy to use

This map is available in a common image format. You can copy, print or embed the map very easily. Just like any other image.

Different perspectives

The value of Maphill lies in the possibility to look at the same area from several perspectives. Maphill presents the map of Novosibirsk in a wide variety of map types and styles.

Vector quality

We build each map individually with regard to the characteristics of the map area and the chosen graphic style. Maps are assembled and kept in a high resolution vector format throughout the entire process of their creation.

Experience of discovering

Maphill maps will never be as detailed as Google maps or as precise as designed by professional cartographers. Our goal is different. We want to redefine the experience of discovering the world through the maps.

Fast anywhere

Maps are served from a large number of servers spread all over the world. Globally distributed map delivery network ensures low latency and fast loading times, no matter where on Earth you happen to be.

Spread the beauty

Embed the above physical map of Novosibirsk into your website. Enrich your blog with quality map graphics. Make the web a more beautiful place.

Maphill is the web's largest map gallery.

Get a free map for your website. Explore the world. Discover the beauty hidden in the maps.

Map graphics revolution.™

• Bahasa Indonesia
• Slovenščina
• Science & Tech
• Russian Kitchen

A traveler's guide to Novosibirsk, the unofficial capital of Siberia

Trans-Siberian heritage

Residents of Novosibirsk love trains and are proud of the fact that their city played a significant role in the history of the grand Trans-Siberian railway, which spans the breadth of Russia. The railway is such a part of Novosibirsk identity that it is even depicted on the city’s emblem, along with the bridge that crosses the Ob river and two Siberian sables standing on their hind legs.  

In the city, there are as many as five monuments to trains, and an open-air locomotive museum is located in the vicinity of the train station Seyatel’. The museum has more than 100 steam locomotives, diesel locomotives and carriages, reflecting the history of rail transportation in Russia from pre-revolutionary times to the present day. Wondering around the stationary trains and comparing your height with the diameter of the gigantic iron wheels of the first steam locomotives is all very well, but why not climb inside the carriages and see how the nobility once traveled across Russia in pre-revolutionary times? These tours will however need to be booked in advance. The museum opens from 11:00 until 17:00 every day except Mondays. 

Novosibirsk spans both sides of the river Ob. In the early twentieth century, the border of two different timezones passed right through the city which led to a strange situation- morning on the east bank started one hour earlier than on the west bank! The two-kilometer covered metro bridge that crosses the river is considered the longest in the world. Due to the fluctuations in temperature across the year (on average +30 °C to -30 °C), during the summer the metro bridge expands, and in the winter it contracts by half a meter. To counter these effects, the bridge’s supports are equipped with special rollers that allow it to move.   

The cultural center of Siberia

The repertoire of the theatre can be viewed on its official website . The theatre season runs from September to July, and comprises mainly classical performances, like the ballet “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky, Borodin’s opera “Prince Igor” and Verdi’s “La Traviata”.  

The large Siberian sea and ligers

Weekends are best spent at the Novosibirsk zoo . The zoo is known for breeding big cats, although surrounded by controversy, hosts a successful crossing of a tiger and lion, which of course would not otherwise breed in wildlife. Ligers, or exotic cubs of an African lion and Bengal tigress, feel quite comfortable in the Siberian climate and even produce offspring. The zoo is open to visitors year-round, seven days a week, and even has its own free mobile app, Zoo Nsk .

Every year at the beginning of January, the festival of snow culture takes place bringing together artists from across Russia and around the world to participate in a snow sculpting competition. The tradition started in 2000 inspired by the snow festival in Sapporo, Novosibirsk’s twin-city.

Siberian Silicon Valley

Despite the fact that Akademgorodok was built half a century ago in the middle of the uninhabited Siberian taiga, architecturally it was ahead of its time. No trees were destroyed for its construction, and houses were built right in the middle of the forest. A man walking through the woods would seemingly stumble upon these structures. At that time, no one had built anything similar in the world and ecovillages only became fashionable much later.

For residents of the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok is a different world. When you step out the bus or car, you are immediately on one of the hiking paths through the forest, between the scientific buildings and clubs. On a walk through Akademgorodok, it is possible to unexpectedly encounter art-like objects handmade by residents of the city which have been erected as monuments and some monuments fixed up by city authorities. For example, the monument to the laboratory mice, which knits a strand of DNA on to some needles, can be found in the square alongside the Institute of Cytology and Genetics. In Akademgorodok there are many cafes and restaurants, in which it is possible to rest after a long walk. Grab a coffee and go to eat at Traveler’s Coffee , or eat lunch at the grille and bar People’s or Clover .

Winters in the Akademgorodok are slightly colder than in the city, so wrap up. Spring and summer are usually wetter, so waterproof boots are recommended. In the summer the Ob sea provides respite from the heat, so do not forget your swimsuit to go for a dip.

Memento Mori

Among the exhibits of the museum is one dedicated to world funeral culture — hearses, memorial jewellery from the hair of the deceased, samples from a specific photo-genre of  "post mortem", a collection of funeral wear from the Victorian era, deathmasks, statues and monuments. There’s also an impressive collection of coffins. One of them, resembling a fish, was manufactured on a special visit to Novosibirsk by a designer coffin-maker from Africa, Eric Adjetey Anang, who specializes in the production of unusual coffins.

Surprisingly, the crematorium itself does not look at all gloomy in appearance and definitely does not look like infernal scenes from movies, or like crematoriums of other cities that gravitate towards gloomy temple aesthetics. The Novosibirsk crematorium is decorated in “cheerful” orange tones and is surrounded by a park with a children’s playground nearby. A visit to the museum then leaves you with mixed feelings. 

Novosibirsk underground

Tourists from all over the world go down into the Moscow metro to take a ride and a few selfies in the most famous underground museum. The Novosibirsk metro is also quite a museum in itself — it has 13 stations, the most beautiful of which is Gagarinskaya, Sibirskaya and Rechnoy Vokzal.

The ultramodern Gagarinskaya station is like a real cosmos underground. Its technologically themed design includes marble walls with metallic elements, dark blue backlighting and portraits of Yuri Gagarin. The Sibirskaya station looks like an underground treasure trove, decorated by Altai masters craftsmen with mosaics of precious Siberian stones. The Rechnoy Vokzal station is framed with ten glowing stained glass windows depicting the largest cities of Siberia, including Novosibirsk itself, Omsk, Barnaul and others. The platform resembles a big ship sailing on the Ob, from which ancient Siberian cities are visible through its windows.  

How to get there

The easiest way to get to Novosibirsk is by plane with Aeroflot or Novosibirsk airline S7 with one-way tickets from Moscow costing from 200-250 USD. If you decide to take from the train from Moscow, you’ll have to travel approximately a third of the Trans-Siberian Railway. That’s 3,300 kilometers over almost a three-day journey. 

Where to stay

There are many great hotels in Novosibirsk. Amongst the best include a four-star Doubletree hotel by Hilton , which is located near Lenin Square (per room from $200). After renovations and repairs, the congress-hotel Novosibirsk has improved (per room from $100) and is located across from the train station. Less expensive but of a similar standard is the four-star River Park hotel near Rechnoy Vokzal metro station, which costs $80 per night.

All rights reserved by Rossiyskaya Gazeta.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

• Krasnoyarsk to Novosibirsk: A journey into Russia’s heartland
• Across Siberia on the cheap: 6 tips for travelers on a budget

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products

Talbots' Epic Labor Day Sale Has Linen Dresses, Silky Midi Skirts, and More Up to 72% Off

Prices start at just $18.

Travel + Leisure / Francesca Fasciglione

Whether you have trips coming up or want to stock up on transitional wardrobe staples to wear straight into fall, there’s no better time than a good sale to bulk up your clothing lineup. So many retailers have impressive discounts for Labor Day, and Talbots is just one of the sales worth checking out.  

You don’t have to wait to take advantage of the markdowns at Talbots since the sale is already underway. While you can save 25 percent on your entire full-priced purchase through September 2, what really caught our eye was the extra 60 percent-off sale . We found double discounts on so many shopper-loved favorites, including sweater vests , linen dresses , silky midi skirts , and more for up to 72 percent off. Below, shop our top picks starting at just $18.

Labor Day Fashion Deals at Talbots 

• Open Stitch Johnny Collar Sweater Vest , $28 (originally $90) 
• Linen Utility Shirt Dress , $52 (originally $159)
• Linen Boyfriend Shirt , $28 (originally $100) 
• Relaxed Chino Shorts , $20 (originally $60)
• Lace Trim Halter Top , $18 (originally $55)
• Embroidered Linen Cotton Tunic , $36 (originally $119)
• Crochet Trim Slub Side Tie Dress , $28 (originally $90)
• Silky Midi Skirt , $36 (originally $108)
• Shimmer Roll Cuff Twist Neck Tee , $18 (originally $50)
• Perfect Crops Sunrise Gingham , $34 (originally $100)

Open Stitch Johnny Collar Sweater Vest

While it might not be cold enough in September to start pulling out bulky long-sleeve sweaters, you can still get the look in a more breathable style with a sweater vest like this pointed Johnny collar piece . Its airy open stitching won’t make you overheat, and it can be worn solo or layered over a long-sleeve shirt once temperatures get colder. 

Linen Utility Shirt Dress

Linen isn’t just for summer. As the seasons shift, there are still warm days ahead, so the lightweight fabric is a wise choice to keep in your outfit rotation. One shopper said the relaxed linen utility dress is “comfortable” and “easy to care for.” The dress features buttons up the front, two chest pockets, and a tie-waist belt for a flattering fit. 

Linen Boyfriend Shirt

A button-down shirt is a versatile must-have for every closet. Wear it fully buttoned with slacks for a polished look, or keep it open and layered over a tank top or dress as a breezy outerwear option. This airy linen style features a curved hem and a classic shirt collar, and one reviewer said they “love the fit” and “how it drapes” on their body. 

Relaxed Chino Shorts

Chino shorts are a great in-between option if it’s too hot for full-length pants but too chilly for a shorter, cropped style. According to one shopper, they’re “extremely comfortable and flattering,” while another person deemed the shorts a “great transition piece into fall.” Thanks to the stretchy cotton twill fabric, they’re comfortable for all-day wear. 

Keep scrolling for more travel-ready transitional wardrobe deals at Talbots ’ Labor Day sale. 

Lace Trim Halter Top

Embroidered linen cotton tunic, crochet trim slub side tie dress, silky midi skirt.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Shop More T+L-Approved Picks

Related Articles

• Musical Instruments
• Keyboards & MIDI
• Electronic Keyboards
• Portable & Arranger Keyboards

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

FVEREY Foldable Piano Keyboard, 61 Keys Semi Weighted Electric Keyboard, Portable Travel Piano Digital Music Keyboard for Beginners with Sustain Pedal, Music Stand, Bluetooth, MIDI

About this item.

• 🎶【61 Keys Semi weighted Piano Keyboard】 The folding keyboard piano has 61 semi weighted keys that give beginners a good feel for real pianos. Spring keys have a specific rebound speed, and you can enjoy the sound of notes by running your fingertips over them. Moreover the exquisite craftsmanship incorporates an outstanding design and tasteful texture. The keys are not easy to turn yellow even used for a long time, and have greater stability.
• 🎶【Portable & Folding Piano】FVEREY electric piano keyboard can be folded 180°, saves much space for you. It is easy to carry. The travel piano keyboard comes with a portable travel handbag can be protected well and stored, equipped with double stereo speakers, our keyboard delivers 100% piano original sound, heavy bass, and warm tone, making your music performance the best it can be.
• 🎶【Multifunctional Electronic Piano】 FVEREY Digital Piano keyboard has 128 tones, 128 rhythms and 21 demos; equipped with LCD display and knob buttons easy to use, with chords function, sustain pedal input, metronome, tempo, Transpose, headphone output, and connection Stereo output to recorder, mixer or amplifier to meet every piano need for beginners and amateurs. Headphone jack for immersive learning without disturbing parents and neighbors.
• 🎶【Bluetooth & USB MIDI Function】 The 61 keys foldable keyboard has built in wireless connection, connect with piano games apps such as Garage Band, Perfect Piano and Pop Piano, or online music lessons, Make piano learning more fun. Also you can use the midi keyboard as a speaker. The music midi keyboard allows you to connect computer and other intelligent devices to edit music and create your own music.
• 🎶【Perfect Gift Choice】It is an ideal gift for all ages, an Innovative keyboard piano for beginners, adults and music lovers. Also good choice for festival such as holiday, birthday, Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc. Package include piano keyboard, handbag, music stand and score clip, sustain pedal, charger and charging cable, detailed instructions.

Customers who bought this item also bought

Product information

Product guides and documents, videos for this product.

Click to play video

Fverey 61 Key Folding Piano

Folding piano Keyboard review

Butterflies In Space Joe

Fverey 61 Keys Foldable Piano,Best Choice for Beginner

Fverey Direct

The best possible sound quality 61 key piano

Simple design 61 key piano

FEVREY 61KEY Portable Piano Sheet Music Stand, Bag & Piano

Product description.

FVEREY Folding Piano Keyboard 61 Key Keyboards Piano

Semi Weighted Electric Keyboard Portable Travel Piano

Portable Travel Piano Digital Music Keyboard

61 Semi-weighted Keys with Tasteful Texture

• The folding piano keyboard has 61 semi-weighted keys that give beginners a good feel for digital piano. The exquisite craftsmanship incorporates an outstanding design and tasteful texture, which protect the keys are not easy to turn yellow even used for a long time, and have greater stability.

Ultra-long Battery Life of 10 Hours

• Built-in ultra-large-capacity lithium battery with up to 10 hours of battery life, providing full inspiration. With the plug-in dual-use power settings, you can charge, transport, and use it anywhere.

Easily Move Your Stage

• Double-layer folding, the piano body 5.1lb (2.3KG) can be easily loaded into the piano bag, allowing you to easily transport your piano to school, party, stage for practice or performance. Stop waiting and start playing your music right away!

Dual Bluetooth Mode

• The audio Bluetooth function enables the keyboard to be used as a player, with the ability to play and sing. Bluetooth MIDI can send and receive MIDI signals for connected software, as well as connect smart apps to perform follow-up and other functions.

FVEREY Similar Products

Compare with similar items, looking for specific info, customer reviews.

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 55% 18% 7% 6% 14% 55%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 55% 18% 7% 6% 14% 18%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 55% 18% 7% 6% 14% 7%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 55% 18% 7% 6% 14% 6%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 55% 18% 7% 6% 14% 14%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the size and features of the keyboard. They say it's portable and easy to use. They appreciate the impressive features, including a pedal and stand. However, some customers have mixed opinions on sound quality, quality, and ease of use.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the size of the keyboard. They say it's easy to use and convenient to transport. Some say it fits in their carry-on and is good for travel.

"...You can write songs on it. It sounds and feels decent. It folds up small . It's a hundred bucks. Add that up." Read more

"...This 61 key folding keyboard is perfect for me. Folded fits in my carryon ...." Read more

"...This keyboard fits into my luggage and although it is not a performance piano, I can still demonstrate a passage of music or a rhythmic pattern for..." Read more

"I use this keyboard to volunteer with hospice patients. It's easy to transport , quick to set up, and has an 8-hour battery, so is perfect for what I..." Read more

Customers are impressed with the keyboard's impressive features. They also appreciate the helpful features, such as a pedal, stand, and touch-sensitive keyboard that allows for some dynamics.

"...pretty impressed – the sound is not bad and it has some helpful features including a pedal , a stand for music, a transpose button, and a cord that..." Read more

"...keyboard by any means, but it is touch sensitive which allows for some dynamics ...." Read more

" Very impressive features ...." Read more

" It is useful ...." Read more

Customers find the keyboard very playable, good for learning and practice, and easy to play. They also mention that the velocity can be turned off and that it's excellent for kids.

"...This foldable would be excellent for kids . It's perfect for patio, beach, and long car trips. I haven't drained the rechargable battery yet...." Read more

"...Folded fits in my carryon. Key velocity can be turned off, easier to play - key bed and keys are not performance quality - but still very playable...." Read more

"Wanted a piano for my beach place and it gives me an opportunity to practice along with my simply piano app." Read more

Customers are mixed about the sound quality of the keyboard instruments. Some mention that the sound is great and the keys fold works well, while others say that it's by no means perfect, has twangy feedback, and the sounds are mislabeled.

"...The sound is fine for this purpose as well! Would buy again!" Read more

"...The keys were a little stiff, the built-in audio at least was mediocre , I didn't get around to testing things thoroughly because the key size was a..." Read more

"...Of course, the sound board is not great nor the speakers but you don't buy this because you want exceptional sound...." Read more

"...Bottom line, is it’s not a lot of money to spend for a halfway decent sounding travel keyboard with full-size keys...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the keyboard instruments. Some mention that it's well-made and holds up well, while others say that it is of lower quality compared to other in its price range and that it broke easily.

"...well for a short time, but it's been a couple of days and it's still malfunctioning ...." Read more

"...One of the piano settings is decent and usable , as are two of the organ sounds. Sound is by no means perfect, but not tinny, not "way off."..." Read more

"...clack when played, I am sending it back, as I am afraid it may break with a little use ...." Read more

"...It has held up, continues to work well , and still holds it's charge for weeks...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of use of the keyboard instruments. Some mention that it's easy to use and set up easily, while others say that the keys are not performance quality, are stiff, and need more force than it should. Some say that a couple of keys clack when played and the feel of the piano is fairly mediocre.

"...The control panel is fairly easy to understand and trial-and-error will reveal the secrets...." Read more

"...velocity can be turned off, easier to play - key bed and keys are not performance quality - but still very playable...." Read more

" Convenient ..." Read more

"...The keys were a little stiff , the built-in audio at least was mediocre, I didn't get around to testing things thoroughly because the key size was a..." Read more

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Registry & Gift List
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices