The Best MIDI Interfaces for PC / Mac / iOS and More
Author & Contributors
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings, and also I play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
FORE USB MIDI
Street Price:
Manufacturer:
This is a generic-looking 'Amazon only' product and brand that's been racking up genuinely good reviews since 2017.
There are other midi interfaces that look very similar to this available on Amazon and in all likelihood, the 'FORE' brand is simply printed on by the Chinese manufacturer for the re-seller. But people find it works well and they provide pretty good support for their product.
The interface is a simple Y configuration with the usual 1 MIDI In / 1 MIDI Out cable and a USB connection. It features a flashing indicator light and comes in various colors.
Being class-compliant, it doesn't require drivers and most users find it to be 'plug and play'.
The seller warns that the device does not transmit system exclusive messages.
Specifications
- Number of MIDI Ports: 1 MIDI In, 1 MIDI Out
- Compatibility: Class Compliant and compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS (via CCK/Lightning adaptor) and Linux. Sysex messages not supported
- Power Supply: USB
- Length: 6.5ft
- Weight: 3.84oz
Pros
The interface works well for the vast majority of users for standard midi channel applications with a wide variety of equipment at a price they appreciate. The vendor stands behind their product with support being very highly praised when issues do arise. They seem to be very keen to maintain their good ratings by accurately describing the product.
Cons
Apart from the confusion regarding the In/Out labeling, the biggest complaint is that the indicator light is too bright and some have felt the need to cover it with tape. The lack of midi sysex will rule it out for some and there are reports that it can have problems with Midi Time Code as well. Unsurprisingly the construction isn't the sturdiest. It's better suited for home use than on stage.
Overall
If you're looking for a cheap interface for home use and don't need sysex capabilities this is a good option.
iConnectivity mio
The mio is a USB Class Compliant (plug and play) bus powered MIDI interface.
It is a low latency and affordable option for the basic single device MIDI connections.
The makers boast of it's "Indestructible" Class Compliant drivers that are "engineered to today's strict guidelines to ensure compatibility for years to come". They also mention that it's been engineered "properly" to avoid the device introducing electrical noise into your system although this does seem like a rare occurrence for MIDI interfaces in general.
There's a free companion controller app called "iConfig" available for Windows, Mac and iOS that allows you to route and process MIDI in various ways as well as update the device firmware.
Specifications
- Number of MIDI Ports: 1 MIDI In, 1 MIDI Out
- Compatibility: Class Compliant and compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS (via CCK/Lightning adaptor) and Linux
- Power Supply: USB
- Length: 5ft
- Weight: 3.5 oz
Pros
Many users praise this interface for living up to its plug and play functionality. It works well with Mac and Windows operating systems and has no noticeable latency. A lot of users were pleased they didn't need to install drivers. It has a sturdy and compact build that feels secure and is very affordable.
Cons
Some people find its 'iConfig' software editing interface to be confusing and complicated to use, although it should be mentioned that this is only needed for additional advanced functions. As with many MIDI interfaces, problems can be encountered when sending System Exclusive (SysEx) MIDI messages. The 5ft cables are also a bit short for some setups and extensions may be needed.
Overall
This is our overall best pick for a simple and reliable midi interface at a good price.
Roland UM-ONE mk2
The Roland UM-ONE mk2 is a compact and affordable USB MIDI interface that has low latency timing.
It comes in a form of a "Y" cable. It has data indicators for its MIDI ports and has conveniently integrated USB and MIDI cables.
There's a small switch on the side labelled "COMP/TAB" that allows you to set it to use the supplied "old school" Windows/Mac drivers ("COMP") or the more modern "Class Compliant" Mode ("TAB") that doesn't need drivers so it also works with IOS (iPad 2 and later, via Apple's CCK/lightning connector), Linux and newer Android devices.
Just one thing to keep in mind with iPad compatibility is that the manual states that you need to connect it through a powered USB hub, presumably because it may use more power than iOS provides. However Roland says it's compatible without needing extra power and users have reported that it works connected straight into the Apple adapter as well.
Specifications
- Number of MIDI Ports: 1 MIDI In, 1 MIDI Out
- Compatibility: Driver Mode available for Windows/Mac, Class Compliant Mode : Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux and iPad 2 or later (via CCK/lightning connector)
- Power Supply:USB. May need powered USB hub for iPad/IOS connection
- Size: 2.38" (W) x 1.19" (D) x 0.56" (H)
- Weight: 4 oz.
Pros
Many users found this interface convenient since it's easy to set up and has a straightforward manual. For those Windows/Mac users who prefer to use the drivers, the setup there is generally straightforward and there are drivers available all the way back to Windows XP and Mac OS X 10.4. The Class Compliant MIDI option ensures that it can work with iPads, Linux and modern operating systems.
Cons
There were some users who had driver setup problems particularly with older versions of Windows and Mac operating systems. In some cases it also seems that the "COMP/TAB" was confusing for some and they needlessly battled driver issues when the Class Compliant mode could have had them up and running. The mixed signals over whether a powered USB hub was required for iPads also caused some anxiety for buyers even though it worked fine without needing the powered hub.
Overall
This simple and straightforward MIDI interface is a great choice for you if you're a beginner starting out when it comes to using MIDI hardware. This is a good choice if you just need to connect a single keyboard or module to your computer.
Yamaha MD-BT01
The Yamaha MD-BT01 is a Bluetooth wireless MIDI Interface that has MIDI In/Out terminals for Mac and iOS systems.
Bluetooth MIDI is a technology standard initially developed by Apple and so it's mainly only been compatible with Apple devices although other operating systems such as Windows 10 have added support.
The unit is powered by the MIDI connection so no cables are required allowing a truly wireless setup.
Yamaha provide a companion App that allows you to easily use multiple MD-BT01s in your setup.
Keep in mind that this interface obviously won't work with USB.
Specifications
- Number of MIDI Ports: 1 MIDI In, 1 MIDI Out
- Compatibility: Bluetooth LE MIDI. Compatible with iOs 8 or later and Mac OSX Yosemite or later with Bluetooth 4.0 installed.
- Power Supply: Powered by MIDI Connection
- Size: 0.67"(W) x 2.63" (D) x 0.67"(H)
- Weight: 0.81oz
Pros
iOS and Mac users provided positive feedback for this device saying and Bluetooth connection is generally easy to set up. Comments about the latency generally ranged from non-existent to acceptable, In terms of range it can work up to 30 feet even through walls and obstructions.
Cons
A small number of users have criticized it for not being immediately recognized by iOS devices when pairing but it does work most of the time. Some of them also mentioned its build is a bit flimsy and may not plug in easily to some MIDI devices. There were also some reports of latency issues particularly when sending a lot of MIDI data so there could be issues with sending complex multi-channel pieces. Of course the big question of "would you trust this for a live performance" comes up and it does seem that most prefer the reliability of a wired connection when performing in front of an audience.
Overall
This interface is a great choice if you want an easy to set up wireless system that works at up to 30 feet distance.
Miditech MIDIFACE - 4x4
Miditech is a company based in Cologne, Germany and have been making music gear for over 2 decades.
The Miditech MIDIFACE is a straightforward 4 in / 4 out interface.
It is class compliant and will work with most major operating systems.
Its configuration allows up to 64 channels of MIDI via the included USB Cable.
Specifications
- Number of MIDI Ports: 4 MIDI In, 4 MIDI Out
- Compatibility: Class Compliant with MAC OSX, Windows XP SP2, Windows Vista, Windows 7, 8 and 10
- Power Supply: Powered by MIDI Connection
- Size: 9.25" x 6.93" x 2.83"
- Weight: 15.5oz
Pros
Simplicity is an often repeated plus for the MIDIFACE 4 x 4. It was noted to work on a variety of devices. Although not explicitly stated by the manufacturer, a few users noted it to work with iOS and Android devices as well with aftermarket adapters. DAWs recognize the device and accurately show the 4 ins and 4 outs.
Cons
Some couldn't get it to work on Windows 10. Comments suggested that Windows 10 needs to be updated, however no replies from the original review posters to indicate whether or not this solution worked were present.
Overall
If you want a simple 4 x 4 MIDI interface to hook up multiple devices, it doesn't get any more straightforward than the the Miditech MIDIFACE.
MOTU micro lite - 5x5 USB MIDI interface
The MOTU micro lite 5x5 is a professional MIDI interface that provides 5 MIDI In/MIDI Out and 80 MIDI channels that are compatible with all versions of Mac and Windows devices.
It has a metal casing that's both portable and convenient for desktop operation.
It also has removable rack attachments and a custom center-joint fastener that allows you to mount two of these interfaces side by side in a standard 19-inch equipment rack.
The number of MIDI ports can be expanded by plugging it to other MOTU MIDI interfaces.
Specifications
- Number of MIDI Ports: 5 MIDI In, 5 MIDI Out
- Compatibility: Proprietary Drivers Supplied for Windows and Mac (Not Class Complaint)
- Power Supply: USB
- Size: 9.5"(W) x 7"(D) x 1.75"(H)
- Weight: 2 lbs
Pros
Many people praise it for its simple design, how well-built it is and its low latency. For an interface that has multiple ports, it's simple and straightforward when it comes to configuration. A few musicians have tried connecting multiple keyboards and synth modules and gave positive feedback on how easy it is to integrate it with their computers. A few reviewers mentioned they never had any sync issues when synced with other devices.
Cons
Some users notice their DAWs don't recognize this interface right away. Some of them had to unplug and re-install drivers of this interface in order for it to work. A few have mentioned this doesn't have any routing options either. This interface is not class compliant which means that you are dependent on drivers from the manufacturer for it to function. If there are new Windows or Mac updates in the future then you may need to install new drivers.
Overall
This is an affordable choice for your professional or home studio that's expandable and has extra features.
Things To Consider When Buying A MIDI Interface
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What is a MIDI Interface?
Simply put, it's a device that allows you to connect MIDI devices, such as hardware synths and keyboards that use 5-pin MIDI jacks, to your computer or tablet.
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Connectivity
Some MIDI interfaces come with "Y" cables: 2 MIDI connectors (1 In/1 Out) on one end and a USB connector. Some have multiple MIDI sockets and this is usually necessary if you want to connect multiple MIDI controller devices at the same time - an example would be connecting an Electronic Drum Set and a MIDI Keyboard to your computer. You can usually daisy chain MIDI output (receiver) devices through a single computer connection though.
There are MIDI Interfaces that are compatible with iOS devices, such as iPhones or iPads, with the use of Apple lightning cables. Any class compliant USB device can be connected to iOS devices via an Apple Camera Connection Kit or Lightning adapter - note that your iOS apps must use CoreMIDI.
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Power
Many MIDI interfaces don't need additional AC power cables or batteries and can be powered via USB when plugged to a PC, Mac or Linux box.
Important information for iPad users: The iPad limits the amount of power available to USB devices so even though you can use Class Compliant interfaces with it you may need to use a Powered USB Hub (link to Amazon.com) to provide sufficient power. This does not apply if your MIDI interface has its own power adapter.
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Class Compliant USB MIDI
Class compliant devices are plug-and-play devices that don't need extra drivers to work (although manufacturers often supply them anyway). Although theoretically any class compliant device should work with any operating system that supports them you may have trouble with older operating systems so if you don't have the latest version of your OS then check the compatibility information carefully before purchasing (or upgrade to the latest OS if you can).
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Number of MIDI Ports (Input/Output/Thru)
MIDI devices come in 3 ports: In, Out and Thru. An interface with single MIDI In and Out ports is enough to connect one MIDI controller (i.e. keyboard) to a computer and usually you can also daisy chain to other MIDI receiver units (such as sound modules) using the Thru ports in these. If you want to use multiple MIDI controllers you'll generally need multiple MIDI Input ports to your computer. Also it can be easier to control multiple MIDI receiver units with each having their own dedicated port and this can also reduce latency when there's a lot of MIDI data flying around. Another reason to have more MIDI channels is if your sound modules don't have a MIDI Thru port for daisy chaining. Each MIDI port contains 16 channels.
While most users without really complex studio setups can make do with single in/out MIDI port interfaces, interfaces with multiple I/O ports are useful for studios with several different MIDI sources like analog synthesizers or rackmount gear with DAW-controlled MIDI switching and automation. If this is what your studio setup is like, the MOTU Micro Lite or the Miditech MIDIFACE should be worth checking out.
Best MIDI Interface Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2017 and the current edition was published on June 22, 2021.
We looked at all the popular and highly rated MIDI interfaces available from major American music gear retailers and short-listed the 23 most promising for detailed analysis. During this procedure we processed more than 11,000 individual review and rating sources from user and expert reviews and forum comments, using the Gearank Algorithm to produce rating scores out of 100 for each interface. We then selected the highest rated options to recommend above. 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
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings, and also I play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
Aside from endlessly window shopping and watching hours of gear reviews for leisure, he enjoys playing competitive FPS games, MMORPGs and caring for his 5 cats. He is primarily influenced by guitarists like Kurt Ballou and Paul Gilbert. His favorite pieces of gear are his Ibanez RG550RFR, Orange Brent Hinds Terror amplifier and EQD Acapulco Gold fuzz.
Contributors
Alden Acosta: Product research.
Daniel Barnett: Supplemental writing.
Denise Azucena: Supplemental writing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the iConnectivity mio, Roland UM-ONE mk2, Yamaha MD-BT01 and MOTU micro lite.
The individual product images were sourced from their respective manufacturers' websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation.
Comments
Publication of our June 2021
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Publication of our June 2021 Edition resulted in the following MIDI interface coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of it: IK Multimedia iRig MIDI 2.
As a result of our April 2020
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our April 2020 update the following MIDI interfaces came off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
What was the reason why they
Submitted by Tom (not verified) on
What was the reason why they were no longer recommended? They no longer works? I bought a MidiPlus "MIDI 2x2 USB MIDI interface" running on Windows 10 and it doesn't work reliably. I'm wondering if this is related to the April 2020 Update? Would a future Windows 10 update fix this?
The MidiPlus Tbox 2X2 USB
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The MidiPlus Tbox 2X2 USB MIDI Interface was removed from our recommended list because it was no longer available to buy.
Given that it uses USB class compliant drivers it's unlikely that a simple Windows update will fix the problem. If you are having other problems with Windows then reinstalling Windows 10 *might* fix it, but I can't guarantee that it will - there could be other software causes or even malfunctioning USB hardware.
If you want tech support you could contact the manufacturer - you'll find their email address on this page of the MidiPlus website.
The following MIDI interface
Submitted by Jason Horton on
The following MIDI interface has been removed from our recommended list above due to a lack of availability: M-Audio MIDISPORT 2x2 Anniversary Edition.
As a result of a minor update
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of a minor update today we have removed the following from our recommended list above: M-Audio MIDISPORT 1x1.
Great comparative study, very
Submitted by Pedro (not verified) on
Great comparative study, very clear and what I have been looking for for’quite Some time. Don’t know why I didn’t find the article earlier.
Thanks a lot for your great work.
Thank you very much for your
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Thank you very much for your appreciation of the work we do - remember to check with us first next time!