Are you looking for the best midi keyboard?
MIDI keyboard controllers have become an integral part of music creation and performance.
You will find them in virtually every studio as they tend to offer a whole lot in versatility and convenience.
Choosing and impressive and efficient MIDI controller for music creation can be quite difficult.
After engaging with some of the best in market and obtaining reviews from several customers, we have compiled reviews of the best.
Here are the best MIDI keyboard controllers in the market.
The Akai Professional APC Key 25 is designed for performing musicians and composers.
This Controller combines the power of an APC clip-launcher with a keyboard interface, giving you full control of Ableton Live.
This controller features a plug-and-play connectivity and does not require any software installations to run on your Mac and PC.
You can create and produce melodies, play chords using the 25 synth action keyboard, and compose base lines.
This Akai controller offers you the full package for music creation.
AKAI Professional APC Key 25 Features
- Comes with a built-in performance keyboard featuring 25 synth-action mini keys and dedicated octave up and down buttons to increase the keyboard to the full melodic range.
- USB-powered, plug-and-play setup for Mac and PC and seamless one-to-one integration with Ableton Live.
- 8 assignable knobs map to Ableton Live to control volume, sends map to VIs and effects for immersive performances.
- 40 pad clip-launch matrix with tri-colour lighting displays for triggering samples, loops and the on-board shift button and directional arrows.
- Lightweight, highly portable design stows easily in a laptop bag
- Includes a production software package for Mac and PC: Ableton Live lite, hybrid 3 by AIR music tech, sonivox twist and tool room artist launch packs and VIP 3.0 (downloads).
Positives
- An amazing device with a perfect integration
- Solid build quality
- Great value
- Great key response
Negatives
- Software incompatibility issues
AKAI Professional APC Key 25 Product Details
- Item Weight: 839 g
- Product Dimensions: 19.4 x 31.2 x 4.3 cm
- Plug-and-play
- 40 pad clip launch
- USB powered
- Item model number: APC KEY 25
- Colour: black
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 25
AKAI Professional APC Key 25 Conclusion
The APC Key 25 is a very versatile device that is ideal for both music creation and performance.
This controller comes with all the necessary features that allows you to enjoy full control of your creative process.
We recommend this keyboard controller.
Check Price For AKAI Professional APC Key 25 On Amazon
The Novation Launchpad Mk2 MIDI Controller is a must-have, especially if you use Ableton Live.
This launch pad features an 8 x8 grid of pads, a design which has become a major tool in the evolution of music making.
This controller allows you to launch clips, control your mixer, and play drum racks all from the same station.
It also integrates seamlessly with Mac and PC and Ableton Live without any tweaking or setup.
Novation Launchpad Mk2 Ableton Live MIDI Controller Features
- Integrate immediately and seamlessly with Ableton Live, without any setup.
- 64 RGB pads light up to match the color of your clips in Live.
- Bright, colorful pads make the unit stand out just from USB power.
- You can use the grid to play drums and samples with pads pre-mapped to Ableton Lives drum rack.
- Start and stop loops, arm tracks, and control volumes, pans and sends.
Positives
- Wide range of presets
- Connection to Ableton Live does not require any setup
- 64 pads with colours to match colours of your clips in Live
Negatives
- A bit complicated to first time users
Novation Launchpad Mk2 Ableton Live MIDI Controller Product Details
- Tem Weight: 898 g
- Product Dimensions: 24 x 24 x 2.5 cm
- Item model number: AMS-LAUNCHPAD-S-MK2
- Hardware Interface: USB 2.0
- The pads are lit by RGB LEDs
- Ableton Live Lite
- 1GB of pro-quality Loop masters samples and the Novation Bass Station VST and AU plug-in synthesizer
Novation Launchpad Mk2 Ableton Live MIDI Controller Conclusion
A decent piece of controller that is designed to give you the most with music creation.
The layout of the pads is great and they light up with colours to match the live view.
It is worth the bargain.
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The Alesis Q49 is a 49-note keyboard controller that is compatible with virtually all music software and MIDI hardware devices.
The compact controller comes with USB-MIDI and traditional MIDI jacks for a seamless connection to Mac and PC.
Keyboard players will be delighted by this controller because it offers full controls. such as modulation and pitch wheels
The Q49 is supplied with a copy of Ableton Live Life software, which is great for recording and sequencing music.
It’s compact profile and weight make it suits me for combination with existing rigs and workstations.
Alesis Q49 Controller Features
- Comes with 49 velocity sensitive keys for expressive, musical performance.
- USB MIDI and traditional MIDI for use with Mac and PC, as well as MIDI hardware.
- Pitch and Modulation wheels for capturing musical expression, Backlit Octave Up and Down buttons expand your range.
- Assignable volume/data-entry slider enables you to control your most-used parameter. Sustain pedal input for complete performance (pedal sold separately).
- Comes with Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition for recording, sequencing, and performing.
- Bus powered via USB, power cable not required.
Positives
- Good value for its price
- 49 velocity sensitive keys
- Plug-and-play directly with DAW
Negatives
- USB port issues
Alesis Q49 Controller Product Details
- 49 sensitivity synth keys
- USB MIDI & USB power provide single-cable convenience
- MIDI out jack
- 9V DC input allows stand-alone use
- Sustain pedal input (pedal sold separately)
- Ignite music creation software from AIR Music Tech
- Ableton Live Lite software
- Item Weight: 2.3 Kg
- Product Dimensions: 17.8 x 81.3 x 5.7 cm
- Item model number: Q49
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 49
- Hardware Platform: CONSUMER_ELECTRONICS
- Wattage: 4.5 watts
Alesis Q49 Controller Conclusion
If you are looking for a MIDI controller that offers a full keyboard experience with seamless connectivity, you should consider this one.
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The Novation Launchkey 61 MKII MIDI controller is easy to use and is one of the quickest when it comes to producing and performing electronic music.
This the Launchkey does not require any installation processes, it kicks into action once plugged in via USB.
This MIDI controller gives you full control of all aspects of your music production and performance.
It comes with Ableton Live, but integrates well with other music software.
Novation Launchkey 61 MKII USB Keyboard Controller Features
- Fully USB bus-powered and class compliant; works without drivers or power cable.
- Includes Able ton Live Late, Novation Bass Station and V Station virtual instruments and over 1GB of Loopmasters samples.
- Launch clips, control FX, play beats, and much more using 16 pads laid out in two rows of eight, to match your Ableton Live session view; one row to launch clips, and one row to stop them.
- The full color RGB LEDs mean they’ll match the color of your clips too.
- Features 8 rock solid rotary knobs to tweak your instruments and effects.
- 9 dedicated faders for hands-on control of your mixer.
- The 61-note synth-style keyboard is lightweight, fast and very easy to play, but also velocity-sensitive.
- All the controls integrate seamlessly and immediately with Ableton Live, and can be reassigned to anything.
Positives
- The volume and control knobs are quite easy to use
- Great value for its price
- Solid sensitive keys and pads.
Negatives
- A few complaints about faulty USB port
Novation Launchkey 61 MKII USB Keyboard Controller Product Details
- Item Weight: 4.2 Kg
- Product Dimensions: 99 x 12 x 32 cm
- Item model number: AMS-LAUNCHKEY-61-MK2
- Hardware Interface: USB 2.0
- Scale Length: inches
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 61
- Size: 61 Key
Novation Launchkey 61 MKII USB Keyboard Controller Conclusion
This 61 key MIDI keyboard is designed to give you a quick solution to your production needs.
It is portable and suitable for quick creative sessions.
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The Korg Nanokey2 features a modern Stylish and compact design.
This mini MIDI keyboard controller combines Korg’s exceptional touch and the low profile and thin design as found on recent innovations in keyboard technology.
This MIDI keyboard features a superior keyboard response for its class.
The width of the keys is quite accommodating with adequate space between keys, which reduces the chances of striking the wrong key.
Korg nanoKEY2 USB MIDI Keyboard Features
- It is a Low-profile, 25-key usb-midi keyboard.
- Features an advanced-design keybed that offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys.
- It is Usb powered, requires no power cables or battery.
- It comes with a comprehensive free software bundle included via download.
- It is compatible with ipad via camera kit.
Positives
- It is very affordable
- Very thin, compact, and lightweight
- Great for mobile music creators
Negatives
- Some customers might have reservations about the type of keys on this MIDI keyboard, especially those who are used to traditional keys.
Korg nanoKEY2 USB MIDI Keyboard Product Details
- Colours: Available in black or white
- Keyboard: 25-Key-Keyboard with velocity sensitivity and 4 velocity-curves
- Buttons: Pitch-Buttons (Up/Down)
- Octave-Shift-Button (octave range -4 to +4)
- Modulation-Buttons: Sustain-Buttons
- Connector: USB-Mini
- Power supply : Via USB (less then 100 mA)
- Dimensions : 32.5 x 1.3 x 8.3 cm
- Weight: 244 g
Korg nanoKEY2 USB MIDI Keyboard Conclusion
If you are always on the go and need a MIDI keyboard with a very slim profile, you should consider the Korg Nanokey2.
It is very exciting and feature a modern design, also it is quite affordable.
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Another midi controller from Akai is the Professional LPK25.
This midi controller comes with 25 keys, it is portable and connects to your Mac and PC via USB.
This MIDI keyboard controller is designed to allow you create music anywhere at anytime without any restrictions.
It’s slim profile and lightweight allows you to carry it in your back.
This controller offers you the core keyboard functionalities thanks to the 25 synth-action velocity-sensitive keys.
AKAI Professional LPK25 Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Features
- 13 inch, slim-line laptop performance keyboard with 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard keys.
- Includes a dedicated octave up and down buttons to increase the keyboard to the full melodic range; plus a sustain button for expressive performances.
- On-board arpeggiator steps through chords automatically and generates inspiring melodic ideas quickly.
- Comes with 4 programmable memory banks for instant recall of mappings for DAWs, virtual instruments, effects and more.
- USB-powered and plug-and-play setup for Mac and PC; includes Ignite music creation software giving you the fastest way to capture ideas and make music.
Positives
- The keys feel quite robust
- Portable and compact, lightweight
- Connects easily without any fuss
Negatives
- It does not offer much in performance and features
AKAI Professional LPK25 Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Product Details
- Item Weight: 454 g
- Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 34 x 2.8 cm
- Item model number: LPK25
- Colour: Black
- Connector: USB-MIDI Controller
- Hardware Interface: USB
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 25
- Hardware Platform: CONSUMER_ELECTRONICS
- Power Source: USB
AKAI Professional LPK25 Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Conclusion
A pretty decent MIDI keyboard co stroller that is ideal for some basic music creation.
It does offer some level variety in sound production.
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The Akai MPK Mini MKII is a very compact midi controller that is designed to be mobile.
This controller comes in a compact design that fits into your backpack for easy transport.
This MPK Mini controller is ideal for the mobile music maker who needs a device that can be operated on the go.
It comes with great features that offer the best musical experience and is extremely easy to operate.
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII Features
- Features 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys with dedicated octave up and down buttons.
- Comes with a 4-way thumb stick for dynamic pitch and modulation control. A built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes.
- It is USB powered, and connects to you Mac and PC. Features a robust and compact design that lets you create anywhere.
- Comes with Eight backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads with note repeat and full level. This is great for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual instrument; eight fully-assignable q-link knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins and more.
- Downloadable production software package for Mac and PC for Akai pro MPC essentials. Sonivox wobble and hybrid 3 by AIR music tech and now includes VIP 3.0.
Positives
- Compact and portable design, easy to transport
- Great value for its price
- Backlit keys
Negatives
- The editor software does take some time getting used to
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII Product Details
- Item Weight: 739 g
- 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads
- 8 assignable Q-Link knobs Product Dimensions: 18 x 31.4 x 4.6 cm
- Item model number: MPK MINI MK2
- Colour: Standard
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 25
- Hardware Platform CONSUMER_ELECTRONICS
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII Conclusion
If you are looking for a very compact and portable midi controller, then you should consider this one.
The Akai MPK has been designed for music producers who tend to move about quite often.
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The M-Audio keystation Mini 32 II keyboard controller is the ideal mobile computer-based music creation device.
The Keystation is suitable for baselines and melodies as well as for playing chords.
It features a simple design that also does a great job with sequencing music and for playing virtual instruments on the go.
It is convenient with plug and play connectivity through USB.
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 II Keyboard Controller Features
- Features a compact design. A powerful midi controller with 32 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys.
- Class compliant plug-and-play connectivity and USB bus powered specification compatible with Mac and PC.
- Dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full melodic range.
- On-board pitch bend and modulation controls provide a platform for immersive, expressive performances.
- Lightweight, robust and compact design for simple setup and extreme portability.
- Music-creation software included: Ignite by air music tech and able ton live lite.
Positives
- 32 velocity sensitive keys
- Simple plug-and-play with DAW
- Brilliant keyboard layout with compact design
- Solid construction
Negatives
- Several complaints about faulty USB
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 II Keyboard Controller Product Details
- Item Weight: 703 g
- Product Dimensions: 13.7 x 44.4 x 5.7 cm
- USB powered
- Mac and PC compatible
- 32 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys Item model number: Keystation Mini 32 II
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 32
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 II Keyboard Controller Conclusion
This MIDI keyboard offers a decent range for music creation with 32 synth action keys.
It is also quite portable and convenient, it is ready to go once plugged in.
The downside is that the USB cable tends to become faulty.
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Another decent MIDI controller from AKAI is the Professional MPD218 with 16 MPC pads.
This controller features an ultra-portable design makes it easy for use on the go.
The MPD218 merges the abilities of MPC controls with a seamless USB connectivity to give you a great music making experience.
The large MPC pads are great for playing drums, melodic base lines, and samples.
This controller is the ideal beat maker for music production and creation.
AKAI Professional MPD218 Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Controller Features
- It is highly portable, feature-packed and USB powered pad controller.
- 16 large MPC pads for triggering drums, melodic samples, effects and more.
- Dedicated controls for three pad banks provides a total of 48 assignable pads, MPC note repeat and full level controls for immersive performances.
- Features 18 fully assignable 360 degrees potentiometers accessible via three banks for controlling daw; virtual effect and virtual instrument parameters.
- Software suite included for Ableton Live lite, Akai pro MPC essentials, sonivox big bang cinematic.
- Percussion and big bang universal drum.
- For a limited time includes Ableton ready sample library from CAPSUN ProAudio.
Positives
- Thick and robust MPC pads
- The keys have a great response
- Great value for its price
Negatives
- Majority of the complaints have been related to software issues from difficulty in unlocking software to incompatibility.
AKAI Professional MPD218 Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Controller Product Details
- Ableton Live software Included
- MPC essentials
- Sonivox suite
- 16 mpc pads
- Item Weight 748 g
- Product Dimensions 23.8 x 20.1 x 4 cm
- Item model number MPD218
AKAI Professional MPD218 Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Controller Conclusion
The MPD218 is generally a great MIDI controller with impressive features.
The downside is general software issues being encountered by a few customers.
It is definitely worthy of consideration.
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The M-Audio Keystation 88 II offers you an unrestricted computer-based music creation and performance.
It is a very powerful and versatile MIDI controller that has been engineered for music sequencing as well as playing virtual instruments.
It comes with 88 keys that offer a player-centric response which covers every nuance of your music creation.
It comes with octave range buttons which have been conveniently-located.
This MIDI controller is the ideal music creation tool for music producers and performers alike.
M-Audio Keystation 88 II Keyboard Controller Features
- Lightweight, ultra-portable performance keyboard controller with 88 full-size velocity-sensitive keys that deliver natural piano feel.
- USB powered specification provides seamless USB-midi connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling recording software and more.
- Features a dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full melodic range and on-board pitch bend and modulation wheels.
- Five pin midi output for triggering external midi equipment
- Conveniently located transport and directional buttons provide easy-to-use interface for DAW and virtual instrument control.
Positives
- Extremely easy to set up and use
- Feels sturdy and well constructed
- Full keyboard capabilities
- Great for professional and beginner music producers and performers
Negatives
- Difficulty accessing the free software included
M-Audio Keystation 88 II Keyboard Controller Product Details
- Item Weight: 8 Kg
- Product Dimensions: 25 x 136.8 x 9.2 cm
- Item model number: Keystation 88 II
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 88
- USB powered
M-Audio Keystation 88 II Keyboard Controller Conclusion
This MIDI controller offers music makers a full piano player experience, offering a wide range of presets for your creativity.
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The Oxygen 49 MIDI keyboard from M-Audio is ideal for performance as well as creating music.
It features an upgraded synth-action Keybed that offers a precise and adaptable action.
The keys are both velocity and pressure-sensitive for maximum expression and nuanced performance.
The octave up and down buttons are conveniently located for easy access.
M-Audio Oxygen 49 IV Keyboard Features
- Ultra-portable performance keyboard controller with 49 full-size, synth-action velocity-sensitive keys; on-board pitch bend and modulation wheels for expressive performances.
- 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching.
- 8 assignable knobs for manipulating virtual instruments, DAW parameters and plugins – on-board LCD screen provides instant parameter feedback.
- Dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full melodic range.
- Direct link automatically maps controls to DAWs including Ableton live, pro tools, logic, Cubase and more.
- Plug-and-play functionality and USB powered specification for simple user-friendly setup.
- Comprehensive production software package for Mac and PC worth over £100 included; Ableton live lite, sonivox twist and AIR music tech xpand2.
Positives
- Plug-and-play and is compatible with most music softwares
- The keys have a great feel
- It has a great build quality
- Great value for its price, versatile keyboard
Negatives
- The edit menu is quite difficult to use
M-Audio Oxygen 49 IV Keyboard Product Details
- Item Weight: 2.9 Kg
- Product Dimensions: 24.3 x 81.4 x 9.4 cm
- Item model number: Oxygen 49
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 49
M-Audio Oxygen 49 IV Keyboard Conclusion
This MIDI controller is great for its price. It does a good job and is suitable for beginners as well.
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The Masterkey USB MIDI controller is your gateway to computer based music creation.
This efficient and convenient controller is suitable for whatever style of music you create, giving you full the ultimate control over your creativity.
It features velocity sensitive keys and fully integrated with most standard MIDI software programs.
It is compact and easy to move about, it also sits nicely on a desk when in use.
It comes with a variety of useful professional standard functions.
MasterKey 61 MIDI Keyboard Features
- It features a velocity sensitive, synth-style keyboard with pitch bend and modulation wheels (assignable).
- It comes with 1 assignable fader, 4 assignable knobs for real time control.
- It has 3-character red LED segment display, 1 sustain foot switch input jack, type-sensing (foot switch not included).
- It allows quick-toggle between real-time functions Octave, Transpose, Program Change and MIDI Channel.
- Features advanced MIDI functions, USB class-compliant, and no driver needed. Also includes Presonus Studio One Artist.
Positives
- Supplied with a long USB cable
- Integrates with most standard MIDI softwares once plugged in
- Very affordable
- Ideal for both professionals and beginners
- Brilliant design and quality build
Negatives
- A few complaints about faulty USB connection ports and cable
MasterKey 61 MIDI Keyboard Product Details
- Item Weight: 2.3 Kg
- Product Dimensions: 101.5 x 11 x 26 cm
- Item model number: Masterkey 61
- Colour: Silver
- Hardware Interface: USB
- Number of Keyboard Keys: 61
- Country Produced : china
MasterKey 61 MIDI Keyboard Conclusion
This MIDI keyboard has a decent build quality and is quite easy to use.
If you’re looking for an affordable controller keyboard for your software synths, then the Masterkey is a good bargain.