The Best MIDI Controller Keyboards 2024 – From Under $200 to Over $1000

best midi keyboards

Recording engineer Raphael Pulgar showcases the Best MIDI controller keyboards and provides expert advice on the perfect choice for live gigs or recording.


With electronic elements finding their way into different music genres and birthing new ones, getting the right MIDI controller is a top priority. It is one of the most important pieces of gear for any studio.

With this popularity, hundreds of MIDI Controllers now populate the market. It can get overwhelming selecting one that caters to your exact needs. Do you need a controller with clip launching features or one that has weighted, hammer action keys for piano-like response? See the Things to Consider section below if you need answers to those questions.

On some of the best MIDI controllers, you can do your production work on a DAW without having to constantly grab your mouse or look over at your computer screen.

Here are our selections for the best midi controller in all price ranges, to help you select the best one for your needs.

The Best MIDI Controller Keyboards – 2024

Author & Contributors

Best MIDI Controller Keyboards Under $200

Arturia MiniLab MkII

94
GEARANK
94 out of 100. Incorporating 4600+ ratings and reviews.
$79.00
Arturia
Arturia MiniLab MkII
At publication time this was the Equal Highest Rated MIDI Keyboard Controller Under $200 along with the Akai MPK Mini MK III.

Cons

  • Knobs feel cheap
  • Touch strips feel like a compromise
  • Pads a bit small

Pros

  • Great value for money
  • Lots of encoders and pads
  • Synth action keys feel great
  •  

Once I decided using a keyboard would be a better approach than programming individual notes, one of my main requirements was a small form factor so I had to limit myself to 25 Keys. I'm not a piano player so I figured that I wouldn't need more keys than that. Other than that, I was in the market for an affordable but versatile 25-Key MIDI controller.

It was down to choosing the Arturia Minilab MKII and the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKIII. I chose the Arturia because I didn't like the "joystick" modulation wheels and pitch control on the MPK Mini MKIII. While the Minilab MKII doesn't have a traditional modwheel, the touch strips made better sense to me.

The unit was plug and play and my DAW (Presonus Studio One) instantly recognized it as a new device. Arturia provides a software suite that automatically maps to the encoders and pads. Manual mapping for other software synths and samplers is also easy to do. Each Pad feels nice for the price and size.

I already have a software synth by Arturia called "Pigments" and the MIDI Controller works excellently with it. Other software like Native Instruments Kontakt also integrates well with it.

Buildwise, the MiniLab MkII feels solid. Even though it's made of plastic, I didn't feel any excess plastic residue and everything feels solid with no internal rattle when I shake it. The keys are finished nicely and the resistance is just right for synth action. There were some keys that were fractions of an inch higher or lower than the others but it's not really a major issue.

The knobs felt a bit flimsy to the touch but the potentiometer rotation is smooth and consistent across all knobs. The pads felt a bit small but I rarely use them. Still, if you like making beats on pads, the layout and size might not be the best especially for harder hitters.

What I don't like about the Minilab MkII is the fact that I had to settle with touch strips instead of pitch and mod wheels. I would have preferred even a smaller integration of the two wheels as long as it's mechanical. The strips work fine but I do feel it lacking in precision especially when my left hand's fingers are calloused from guitar playing.

Even years after its release, the MiniLab MkII is still popular and can be seen gracing the desks of prolific and talented musicians all over the world.

Specifications

  • Keys: 25 Slim Synth Action Keys
  • Pads: 8 RGB Pads
  • Controls: 16 Encoders, Octave, Pitchbend, Mod Touch Strips
  • Octave: 4 Octaves (+/-)
  • Zones: 1
  • Automap: Yes (On some DAW Software)
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Control Hardware Directly: No
  • Compatibility: OSX 10.7 (Up), Windows 7 SP1 (Up)
  • Power: USB Bus Powered
  • Dimensions: 14" x 8.7" x 2"
  • Weight: 3.3 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano, Analog Lab Lite

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
Gearank Raphael Pulgar 93/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Arturia MicroLab

94
GEARANK
94 out of 100. Incorporating 450+ ratings and reviews.
$79.00
Arturia
Arturia MicroLab 25-Key MIDI Controller Keyboard

Cons

  • Basic Controls
  • Software activation a bit of a pain

Pros

  • Great build quality
  • Works well with various DAWs
  • Very portable
  • Mod and pitch strips work well

The Arturia MicroLab is a fantastic option for musicians needing a compact, portable MIDI controller keyboard. Despite its tiny footprint, this controller packs a punch with 25 velocity-sensitive slim keys, touch strip pitch/modulation controls, and low power requirements. The bundled software, including Analog Lab Lite, Bitwig Studio, and UVI Grand Piano, further enhances its value, providing users various high-quality presets and expanded creative possibilities.

While the MicroLab's compactness is a big pro, its limited octave range may pose some restrictions for certain playing styles or complex compositions. Additionally, the absence of aftertouch and a dedicated modulation wheel might disappoint users who rely on these features for expressive playing. Furthermore, while the controller's build quality is decent, it may not be as rugged as some higher-end controllers.

Overall, the Arturia MicroLab is an excellent choice for musicians on the go who prioritize portability, expressiveness, and convenience. Its compact design, bundled software, and touch strip controls make it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and mobile MIDI controller keyboard. However, users requiring a wider octave range or specific tactile features should consider whether the MicroLab meets their musical needs.

Specifications

  • Keys: 25 Velocity Sensitive Synth action, Mini-keys
  • Pads: None
  • Controls: 2 x Touch Strips (pitchbend, modulation, preset browsing)
  • Octave: +/- 4
  • Zones: not specified
  • Automap: not specified
  • Connectivity: USB cable
  • Control Hardware Directly: typrehere
  • Compatibility: OS X 10.10 or later, 64-bit , Windows 7 SP1 or later, 64-bit
  • Power: USB Bus Powered
  • Dimensions: 16.6″ x 3″ x 7″
  • Weight: 1.8 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Bitwig 8-Track, Arturia Analog Lab Lite, UVI Grand Piano Model D

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers Under $500

Novation Launchkey 49 MK3

93
GEARANK
93 out of 100. Incorporating 800+ ratings and reviews.
$229.99
Novation
Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 49-key MIDI Keyboard Controller
At publication time this was the Highest Rated MIDI Keyboard Controller from $200 to $500.

Cons

  • The keys feel a bit cheap

Pros

  • Ableton Live integration is very well done
  • The knobs, faders and pads are all well-built

Novation has taken user feedback on its Launchkey MK2 series and implemented improvements in the MK3 series.

Aside from being a keyboard controller, it also includes Ableton Live clip launching pads that double as performance pads.

The Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 features new compositional tools like new scale modes, chord modes, and a mutate feature that rearranges your patterns to form new musical ideas.

The new iteration now features MIDI out via 5-pin MIDI DIN Connection - this enables control of analog synths.

The only issue is the keybed - the synth action keys are quite light which won't suit you if you are used to hammer action keys, but they're still better than most other low-cost synth action 49-key competitors.

If you're looking for a controller that's fully integrated with Ableton Live, but versatile enough to be used with other DAWs, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is our recommended midi keyboard.

Specifications

  • Keys: 49 Synth action, velocity sensitive keys
  • Pads: 16 x RGB, Velocity-sensitive Pads
  • Controls: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel, 8 x Rotary Knobs, 9 x 45mm Faders, Transport (Play, Stop, Record, Loop)
  • Octave: up/down
  • Automap: Yes (Ableton Live)
  • Connectivity: USB, MIDI Out , 1 x 1/4" (sustain)
  • Control Hardware Directly: yes
  • Compatibility: OS X 10.11 or later, Windows 7 SP1 or later
  • Power: USB Bus Powered
  • Dimensions: 31.06" x 10.16" x 3.03"
  • Weight: 6.68 lbs..
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Virtual Instrument and Sample Plug-in Bundle

Rating Source Highlight

Website Source *Rating Value
Sound On Sound Robin Vincent 90/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 MkIII

92
GEARANK
92 out of 100. Incorporating 250+ ratings and reviews.
$269.00
Arturia
Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 MkIII - 61 Key MIDI Controller Keyboard

Cons

  • Feel leaves a bit to be desired

Pros

  • Integrated backlit keys help visibility
  • Durable enough for live use
  • Great DAW Compatibility
  • Intuitive layout

The KeyLab Essential 61 MkIII is a versatile and user-friendly MIDI controller with many features suitable for beginners and experienced musicians. One of its standout features is the premium keybed quality, providing a hybrid synth-piano feel with its 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard. This makes it a joy to play, especially with its pre-mapped integration to the included Analog Lab software, which offers over 2000 sounds. Integrating with other DAWs, such as FL Studio, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, and Bitwig Studio, further enhances its usability for music production.

The controller's smart features, including the multi-mode arpeggiator, chord mode, and scale mode, contribute to its creativity during production. At the same time, including Ableton Live Lite and other software titles adds excellent value to the package. The only downsides to consider are the plastic build, which may be less robust compared to higher-end controllers, and the limited 2.5" LCD display. Additionally, the absence of aftertouch might disappoint some players who rely on this feature for expressive playing.

In conclusion, the KeyLab Essential 61 MkIII stands out as a solid choice for a MIDI controller, offering a balance of quality, versatility, and bundled software that adds value for its price range. Whether you're a beginner looking for a user-friendly option or a home studio owner in need of a reliable MIDI controller with seamless integration, the KeyLab Essential 61 MkIII is definitely worth considering.

Specifications

  • Keys: 61 Velocity Sensitive, Synth Action
  • Pads: 8 x RGB, Velocity Sensitive Pads with Aftertouch
  • Controls: 9 x Knobs, 9 x Faders, Dedicated Transport Control, 1 x Pitch Bend, 1 x Modulation
  • Octave: not specified
  • Zones: not specified
  • Automap: Yes
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Control Hardware Directly: not specified
  • Compatibility: MacOS 10.13 or later, Windows 10 or Later
  • Power: USB bus powered
  • Dimensions: 2.76"" x 35"" x 9.45""
  • Weight: 6.8 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Analog Labs V, 2 Pianos (UVI Model D, NI The Gentleman), Loopcloud, Melodics

Yamaha MX49 V2

89
GEARANK
89 out of 100. Incorporating 275+ ratings and reviews.
$569.99
Yamaha
Yamaha MX49 V2 Music Synthesizer MIDI Controller Keyboard

Cons

  • Not fully weighted keys

Pros

  • Portable
  • User Friendly
  • Amazing for music production

 The Yamaha MX49 V2 is an impressive music synthesizer and MIDI controller keyboard that stands out due to its versatile features and compact design. Boasting Yamaha's AWM2 sound engine, the MX49 delivers a wide range of high-quality sounds across 16 categories, including pianos, organs, strings, brass, and more. Although the built-in patches cannot be overwritten, the MX49 provides 128 user memory slots for normal Voices and extra slots for drum kits, granting users ample space for customizing and saving their own sounds.

One of the standout features of the MX49 is its 16-part multi-timbral capability, allowing for layering or splitting sounds. The versatile keyboard design grants direct access to Parts 1 and 2, while the remaining 14 Parts can be controlled via MIDI. This enables seamless control over various parts simultaneously, making it a convenient tool for crafting intricate and dynamic compositions. Furthermore, the MX49 offers a range of connectivity options, including analog outputs, headphone and auxiliary audio inputs, MIDI connections, and USB sockets for interfacing with computers and external storage devices.

The MX49 also comes bundled with a valuable software package featuring Steinberg's Cubase AI6 sequencer, the Prologue soft synth, and Yamaha's YC3B organ emulator. These additions enhance the keyboard's functionality and expand its creative possibilities.

While the MX49 excels in many areas, its limited 49-key range may restrict musicians seeking a wider range for certain playing styles or compositions.

Nonetheless, the MX49's lightweight and portable design, excellent sound selection, user-friendly controls, and affordable price point make it a good choice for live performances and studio productions.

Specifications

  • Keys: 49 Velocity Sensitive Synth Action
  • Pads: None
  • Controls: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
  • Octave: Nots Specified
  • Zones: Not Specified
  • Automap: Not Specified
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Control Hardware Directly: Not Specified
  • Compatibility: Mac OS and Windows
  • Power: 12V DC power supply (included)
  • Dimensions: 3.58" x 32.68" x 11.7"
  • Weight: 8.38 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Cubase AI included, FM Essential iOS synth app

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers Under $1000

Yamaha MX61 Music Synthesizer V2

92
GEARANK
92 out of 100. Incorporating 325+ ratings and reviews.
$799.99
Yamaha
Yamaha MX61 Music Synthesizer V2 MIDI Controller Keyboard

Cons

  • Its large number of features require a lot of learning time

Pros

  • Extra value of being both a Synth and a Controller
  • Integrates well with most popular DAWs
  • Low weight makes it quite portable
  • Good range of quality built in sounds
  • Built-in USB audio allows digital recording

TThe Yamaha MX61 V2 is a hybrid synth/controller.

It is a full-featured synth with circuit-level modelling thanks to Yamaha's VCM (Virtual Circuit Modelling) FX module and MOTIF sound engine.

As a MIDI Controller, it features MIDI via USB or 5-Pin connection.

As a DAW controller its assignable knobs allow you to control plugins directly from the keyboard as well as providing essential transport controls.

It also acts as a class compliant USB audio interface which allows you to record the on-board sounds directly to your DAW.

At only 10.6 lbs. it's easy to pick up, and despite having a plastic enclosure I would be happy to take it on the road; with a proper case of course.

If you want a MIDI Keyboard that doubles as a synthesizer or vice-versa, the Yamaha MX61 V2 is the best midi controller keyboard to get. It can easily fit into a variety of needs, especially once you get past the MIDI Keyboard learning curve.

Specifications

  • Keys: 61 Synth-action, touch sensitive keys
  • Pads: None
  • Controls: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel, 4 assignable knobs + Multifunction AI Knob, Octave, Transpose, Synth controls
  • Octave: up/down
  • Automap: Yes
  • Connectivity: USB, MIDI In/Out ,1 x 1/8" (aux in), 2 x 1/4" (main out), 1 x 1/4" (Headphones), 2 x 1/4" (sustain, controller)
  • Control Hardware Directly: yes
  • Compatibility: OSX 10.7 (Up), Windows 7 SP1 (Up)
  • Power: 12V DC power supply (included)
  • Dimensions: 38.7" x 11.7" x 4.4"
  • Weight: 10.6 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Cubase AI included, FM Essential iOS synth app

Yamaha MX88

95
GEARANK
95 out of 100. Incorporating 375+ ratings and reviews.
$1199.99
Yamaha
Yamaha MX88 88-key Music Synthesizer MIDI Controller Keyboard

Cons

  • Basic sound editing
  • Small LCD

Pros

  • Amazing feeling keys
  • Easy DAW integration
  • Great build quality and aesthetic
  • Good I/O

The Yamaha MX88 is a highly versatile music synthesizer designed to meet the needs of modern piano players. Its standout feature is the 88 full-sized, touch-sensitive keys with realistic piano action, perfect for pianists looking for an authentic playing experience. The weighted feel of the keys adds to the overall realistic piano-like sensation. Additionally, the MX88 offers over 1,000 Voices from the legendary MOTIF series, providing a wide range of sounds, including classic synths, strings, and more. This makes it an excellent choice for pianists, synth enthusiasts, and producers alike, as it caters to various musical styles and preferences.

Another key selling point is the MX88's easy connectivity. Equipped with a class-compliant USB audio/MIDI interface, it seamlessly integrates with computers and iOS devices, allowing smooth and efficient music production. Moreover, including CUBASIS LE2 software for recording, editing, and mixing further enhances the overall production experience, offering touch-intuitive production tools essential for live performances and studio work.

However, it's important to note that due to its full-sized structure, the MX88 may be heavier and less portable compared to smaller MIDI controllers. This might be a consideration for those prioritizing portability in their musical setups. Additionally, while the MX88 provides essential controls, some users might find the number of assignable knobs and faders to be limited for real-time tweaking.

Despite these potential drawbacks, the Yamaha MX88 remains an outstanding choice for musicians seeking a comprehensive music synthesizer with a focus on realistic piano action and inspiring synth sound.

Specifications

  • Keys: 88 Velocity Sensitive Fully weighted Graded Hammer Standard
  • Pads: None
  • Controls: Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
  • Octave: Not Specified
  • Zones: Not Specified
  • Automap: Not Specified
  • Connectivity: USB
  • Control Hardware Directly: Not Specified
  • Compatibility: Mac OS and Windows
  • Power: 12V DC power supply (included)
  • Dimensions: 6.6" x 51.9" x 15.9"
  • Weight: 30.6 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Cubase AI included (download code), Cubasis LE iOS app (unlocks), FM Essential Synth iOS app (unlocks)

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers Over $1000

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2

92
GEARANK
92 out of 100. Incorporating 500+ ratings and reviews.
$1299.00
Native Instruments
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 - 88-key MIDI Keyboard Controller

Cons

  • Those who play hammond style organs will find its piano action isn't the best for organ slides

Pros

  • Best for integration with NI Komplete Software
  • The Fater keybed strikes a good balance between piano-like hammer action and synth action feel
  • KOMPLETE SELECT is included free

The Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 is a controller that fully synergizes with Native Instruments' KOMPLETE virtual instrument and audio library.

Despite being made specifically to control KOMPLETE, it is also capable of being mapped to other software and can function as a general DAW controller. It comes with KOMPLETE SELECT bundled for free, which is a useful addition if you're not already part of the NI KOMPLETE ecosystem.

The full 88-key Fater keybed gives a sense of familiarity to piano players while offering premium feel and response to users accustomed to synth action keys. The fast recovery of the keys aids in performing faster staccato phrases especially for synth sounds, although note that they have a slightly heavier feel than other hammer-action keyboards in this guide. Note that this is a step up from the smaller 49 and 61 key versions that only have semi-weighted keys.

One of the big improvements over the MK1 version is the addition of two big LCD screens which enable you to make selections without having to go for your mouse or look at your computer screen - this saves a lot of time when doing production work.

The transport controls work with Ableton Live, Logic X, GarageBand, Cubase Artist and Nuendo.

It's combination of Native Instruments integration and acoustic piano playing feel, makes the Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 a perfect MIDI keyboard for pianists who are into music production and recording.

Specifications

  • Keys: 88 Fully-weighted, velocity sensitive Fatar Keybed with aftertouch
  • Pads: 16 x RGB Backlit Performance Pads
  • Controls:9 x Rotary Encoders, 9 x Faders, Pitchbend, Mod Wheel
  • Octave: 2 Octaves (+/-)
  • Automap: Yes
  • Connectivity: 1 x 1/4" (sustain), 1 x 1/4" (expression), 3 x 1/4" (aux pedals), MIDI In/Out/Thru/USB, CV; Pitch out, Gate out, Mod 1, Mod 2, CV in,
  • Control Hardware Directly: Yes
  • Compatibility: OS X 10.11 or later, 64-bit , Windows 7 SP1 or later, 64-bit
  • Power: External AC adapter
  • Dimensions: 50.9" x 12.7" " x 4.4"
  • Weight: 32.4 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, Analog Lab Software

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Sound On Sound Nick Magnus 84/100
AudioTechnology Preshan John 92/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Kawai VPC1 Virtual Piano Controller

92
GEARANK
92 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.
$2494.00
Kawai
Kawai VPC1 Virtual Piano Controller - 88-key MIDI Keyboard Controller
At publication time this was the Highest Rated MIDI Keyboard Controller Over $1000.

Cons

  • No DAW control features

Pros

  • The keybed gives the closest response to an acoustic piano currently available in a MIDI controller
  • Very quiet keys - you can record in the same room as vocalists with no issue
  • Very expressive keys - captures subtle dynamic differences well
Note: This is strictly a MIDI controller and does not offer any DAW control features.

Instead of piling on controls, screens and faders, the VPC1 aims to replicate the feel of a true, hammer-action piano, not dissimilar to their acoustic piano offerings.

That forms Kawai's design philosophy for the VPC1: a product designed for piano players that prefer to use the best virtual piano instruments.

Kawai F30 Triple Pedal Foot Controller
Kawai F30 Triple Pedal Foot Controller

The graded hammer action changes the weight of the keys as you go up the keyboard similar to how an acoustic piano works enabling you to capture a more realistic piano feel to your recordings.

Kawai has provided an interactive demonstration of the key action - see it on their website.

It also comes with the F30 grand piano style foot controller as pictured.

If you own a studio or are a piano player that desires the most realistic feeling Piano format MIDI controller on the market today, look no further than the Kawai VPC1.

Specifications

  • Keys: 88 RM3II Wooden-key, Graded-hammer Action with Counterbalancing
  • Pads: None
  • Controls: None
  • Connectivity: USB, MIDI In/Out , 1 x Damper, 1 x Sustain, 1 x Soft (Includes Triple-pedal Unit)
  • Compatibility: OSX 10.7 (Up), Windows 7 SP1 (Up)
  • Power: USB Bus Powered, AC Adaptor
  • Dimensions: 54.33" x 16.75" x 7.33"
  • Weight: 65 lbs.
  • Bundled Software: Ableton Live Lite, UVI Grand Piano, Analog Lab Lite

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Audiofanzine David Studhalter 100/100
YouTube PianoManChuck 85/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Things to Consider When Buying a MIDI Keyboard Controller

Keybed: Key Size, Weight, Action, Velocity and Aftertouch

Not all keyboards follow the standard piano size and action because it's not always applicable, especially when considering portability. This is the reason why there's a big difference between a Digital Piano vs Keyboard. And is the reason why compact controllers like the Akai MPK Mini come with slim size and synth action keys, which require some technique adjustment for those who are used to standard size keys. Size also dictates how many keys a MIDI controller will have.

Key weight and action refers to how hard you have to press the keys to trigger a sound. Synth action keys have the softest playing feel, while fully weighted (hammer action) ones need a bit more force, similar to an acoustic piano. Others offer something in between, which they call semi-weighted. Velocity sensitivity refers to how the keys respond to the dynamics of your playing or how forcefully you press the keys. While Aftertouch adds effects depending on the pressure you apply as you hold down a note.

Your choice of size, action and sensitivity will boil down to your budget and preference, which is usually similar to what you are used to playing.

Number of Zones

Zones let you split the keyboard into multiple sections which each transmit on separate MIDI channels. An example of this type of usage is when you have one sound module for bass sounds and another for piano or synth sounds and you split the keyboard so that your left hand plays the bass sounds while your right hand plays the other sounds. These days many MIDI controllers do not have this feature built-in, but DAWs and some plugins will allow you to set virtual zones to your preference. Note that you need this feature on the keyboard to do it when directly controlling hardware without a computer in the loop.

Mod Wheels, Pads and other Control inputs

If you're looking for more control over your notes, you'll want a controller with pitch and modulation wheels. Other features like DAW controls, pads, grid controller, encoders, buttons and faders allow for even more expressive control over parameters in real time, and they can be used to control your DAW software and plugins. Having an expression pedal and sustain pedal input is another important feature, especially for pianists.

Controlling Hardware Directly vs Connecting to Computers

Most are now using MIDI controllers to trigger virtual instruments in computers, and this is done mostly via the USB port, but there are some that allow for wireless use via Bluetooth. To trigger other hardware like analog hardware synths, you'll need a controller with a 5-pin MIDI cable connection.

Auto-Mapping & Software Integration

While most MIDI controllers have auto-mapping, they are usually limited to specific software. And since DAWs and plugins can be very different - it will benefit you to get a MIDI controller that is designed to integrate well with your preferred music production software, otherwise you'll have to manually map the keyboard to your software. The best keyboard for music production is one that has good integration with your preferred DAW. This is a must for studio keyboard controllers.

Transport Controls

Transport controls allow you to gain control of essential recording and playback controls right on your MIDI keyboard, this usually includes play, record, stop, forward, rewind - much like old tape machines. Easily accessible transport controls are a must for a good midi keyboard, especially if you want more control of your DAW.

Motorized Controls

Some controllers come with motorized knobs and faders, which mechanically move to match the current settings in your DAW. This is a convenient feature to have, but since it requires additional moving parts it adds to the overall weight and bulk of the unit, and will generally add to the cost.

Power Supply: USB, Batteries & A/C Adapters

If you are going for portability, the recommended midi controller keyboards are those with built-in rechargeable batteries. If you're going to use the controller on a fixed setup and you want to reduce cable clutter, then go for those that draw power from USB. If you're going for units that draw power from wall warts (AC Adapters), you'll need to ensure that you have enough nearby electrical ports to plug into. Note that if you chose USB power with an iPad then you may need to get an additional powered USB hub due to the iPad's lower power output than standard USB allows for.

Dimensions & Weight

Balancing portability and functionality is tricky yet important if you want to be musically productive. If you're going to make music while on the move, you're going to want to sacrifice some features and go for something light and compact. On the flipside, you should go for bigger controllers if you're style of music requires you to play conventional piano style music - these are ideal if they are simply going to stay in your home studio.

Best MIDI Controller Keyboards Selection Methodology

The first edition was published in 2018. The current edition was published on July 3, 2024

Since we have published guides for top rated MIDI keyboards based on their number of keys, we decided to focus on finding the best MIDI keyboard controllers within popular price ranges. To achieve this, we gathered a huge amount data from relevant reviews, ratings and discussions that totaled to over 97,200 sources for 108 MIDI keyboards. The sources were then processed by the Gearank Algorithm to produce rating scores out of 100 that we used to rank the best MIDI controller keyboards within each price bracket. For more information about our methods see How Gearank Works.

About the Author and Contributors

Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.

Lead Author & Researcher

I use my Arturia MiniLab MKII with virtual instrument and sample libraries like NI Miroslav Philharmonik 2, Kontakt, Absynth, Toontrack Superior Drummer 3, Toontrack EZKeys, Spitfire Audio, Roland ZENOLOGY, and a few other smaller VST instruments.

Contributors

Jerome Borillo: Product Research.
Alexander Briones: Editing.
Jason Horton: Supplemental writing, Editing, and Illustrating.

Media

Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the Kawai VPC1, Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII and NI Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2.

The videos have been embedded in accordance with YouTube's Terms of Service.

The individual product images were sourced from their respective manufacturers' websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation.

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