Take your DAW to the next level.
A MIDI keyboard controller is an essential piece of music gear in today’s home studio.
A piano melody here, a beat there… Having both the physical touch of a keyboard and the editing freedom of MIDI is a blessing in music production.
Getting the best MIDI controller for your creative needs will take your DAW software to new heights. Playing a soft synth with a MIDI keyboard is pretty much like playing the real thing – for a fraction of the price.
What is a MIDI keyboard controller?
A MIDI keyboard controller is a physical interface that allows you to control sounds or functions from devices that work with MIDI. Those include your DAW, VST plugins, and other synths.
MIDI is the language that allows electronic music instruments and computers to communicate and connect. It sends information about what notes you play and how you play them.
How to choose a MIDI controller
But there’s so many controllers out there. Which one should you choose?
To help you find the best fit I prepared an eight-step checklist to help you find the controller that’s best for you. Download it now:
The 50 Best MIDI controllers
Time for the fun part: choosing the best MIDI controller for you. I’ve organized them in categories to help you find what you need quickly.
Prices may vary. You can buy them on Amazon or Sweetwater. You can also find used MIDI controllers for a great price.
Budget all-in-one MIDI controllers
These controllers have a mix of keys, knobs, faders and pads. Plus they won’t hurt your wallet.
Are you choosing your first MIDI keyboard controller? Or you don’t wanna spend too much and still get a complete controller? This section is for you.
Here are the best MIDI keyboards under $200 USD:
Behringer U-Control UMA25S
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Synth-Action)
1 Fader
8 Knobs
Assignable Buttons
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop and more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend, Modulation)
2 Pedal Inputs
Software or DAW included: Tracktion
DAW Integration: all the major ones
This is an entry-level MIDI keyboard, good for beginners and travelers. What Behringer does best is affordable gear that gets the job done. Key feature: it’s got a built in audio-interface that includes a mic input, RCA inputs/outputs and MIDI output. You can get a lot of out it for a modest price. It’s sold with a gig bag, strap and a headset mic.
Why we love it: It’s a budget MIDI controller with a built in audio interface.
Arturia MiniLab
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
8 Pads
16 Knobs
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Shift and more
2 Touchstrips (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Arturia’s Analog Lab
DAW Integration: all, connects to iOS (separate kit required)
The MiniLab looks awesome. The wood panel is inspired by analog synths. It comes with great sounds: 5000 Analog Lab soft synth presets from Arturia’s Modular V, Arp 2600V, Jupiter 8V and others. The build quality overall is great.
Why we love it: The beauty of the look and feel. Quality presets. Lots of control for its compact size.
Alesis V49
Price: $130 USD
Key features:
49 keys (Synth-Action)
8 Backlit Pads
4 Assignable Knobs
4 Assignable Buttons
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 pedal input
Software or DAW included: Xpand!2 and Ableton Live Lite
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
DAW integration: all major ones
The design is sleek and uncluttered. The placement of the pads it very clever: they’re conveniently located on the left beside the keyboard. This allows you to tap pads with your left hand while playing keys with your right. You won’t have to reach over the keyboard awkwardly when performing.
Why we love it: it’s a cleverly designed all-in-one MIDI keyboard. It’s well priced for a full-sized 49 keys. Your bread and butter controller.
Behringer U-Control UMX490
Price: $130 USD
Key features:
49 Keys (Synth-Action)
1 Fader
8 Knobs
10 Assignable Buttons
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Record, and more
2 Wheels (Pitch bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included included: Tracktion
DAW Integration: all major ones
Another great budget MIDI keyboard from Behringer that gives you 49 keys for an extra $30 USD compared to the UMA25S. It comes with an external audio interface. It’s a MIDI controller with MIDI out.
Why we love it: great price tag for 49 keys. It’s nice to get an extra audio interface.
Akai APC Key 25
Price: $130 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
40 backlit Pads
8 Knobs
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Play, Pause and more
2 Touchstrips (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist, and Toolroom artist launch packs
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
DAW Integration: all major DAWs, optimized for Ableton Live
The power of this small keyboard controller is the amount of pads it has: 40. It was specifically designed for Ableton Live. The pads trigger various clips in Ableton’s Session View. It’s very portable and comes with a bunch of software bundles.
Why we love it: It’s a fantastic pair for Ableton users or for those of you who love pads (all of you beatmakers!)
Korg NanoKEY Studio
Price: $150 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Velocity-sensitive Keypads)
8 Pads
8 Knobs
1 X-Y Pad
Dedicated buttons: Octave Up/Down, Arpeggiator, Scale Guide and more
Connects with Bluetooth or USB
Software or DAW included included: code for KORG Software Bundle
DAW Integration: all
The NanoKEY Studio is a powerful one. It’s got bluetooth connectivity. There’s a Kaoss-inspired X-Y Pad – awesome for tweaking effects. Unique feature: the Scale Guide function. Notes in a given scale light up to guide you when you play. You can either put two AAA batteries or connect it via USB for power.
If you like this concept but need faders instead of keys, look at the NanoKONTROL Studio from the same line.
Why we love it: This one has got all of the latest MIDI controller features for 150 USD: bluetooth connectivity, scale guide, X-Y pad and more. It’s definitely a favourite.
Nektar Impact LX49
Price: $160 USD
Key features:
49 Keys (Synth-Action)
8 Pads
9 Faders
8 Knobs
9 Assignable Buttons
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Transpose, Play, Stop, Record and more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
Software or DAW included: Studio One Artist
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
DAW Integration: Pre-mapped DAW Configurations for Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Digital Performer, Garageband, Logic Pro, Nuendo, Reason, SONAR, Studio One, FL Studio, and Reaper.
Key feature: it has as a useful mixer section with lots of faders. It also has knobs and pads. You can save 5 presets. It’s designed to have plug-and-play integration with most major DAWs, except Ableton Live. Ableton users will need to download a Live Remote Script file.
Why we love it: great price that includes a mixer section and banks of settings.
M-Audio Oxygen 49 MK IV
Price: $170 USD
Key features:
49 Keys (Synth-Action)
8 Backlit Pads
8 Knobs
9 Faders
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
DAW Integration: Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Propellerhead Reason, Steinberg Cubase, Logic Pro X, and GarageBand. Connects to iOS (separate kit required).
Key feature: the mixer section makes it great for both production and performance. It automatically maps with all major DAWs, including Ableton Live. It can also be connected to iOS devices (separate connection kit required).
Why we love it: it’s one of the most complete MIDI keyboard controllers under 200 USD. It’s got faders, knobs and pads and works with all DAWs.
Piano Keys only
This selection is for digital pianos with MIDI. Or for those who like to play with two hands.
These MIDI keyboard have more keys – 61 or 88 – and a better feel.
If you don’t need any extra features (pads and faders) these are for you.
Price range: $100-1850 USD.
Acorn Instruments MasterKey 61
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
61 Keys (Synth-Action)
1 Volume fader
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Presonus Studio One Artist
Other versions: 25 keys, 49 keys
DAW Integration: all major ones
Key feature: you get a full 61 keys for 100 USD. It’s USB powered and gets you playing keys on a budget. This as a great way to play VST synths while using your mouse to tweak knobs.
Why we love it: Lots of keys for your money. A simple and effective budget keyboard controller.
M-Audio Keystation 61
Price: $200 USD
Key features:
61 Keys (Semi-Weighted)
1 Volume fader
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop, and more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2
Other versions: 32 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
DAW Integration: all major ones
For a great price you get 61 keys that feel good to play (they’re semi-weighted). It can be powered either through USB or a power supply (sold separately). It’s a good studio or performance tool for playing keys with two-hands.
Why we love it: simple and no fuss. Comes with a good software bundle.
Alesis Q88
Price: $200 USD
Key features:
88 Keys (Semi-Weighted)
1 Volume Fader
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2
Other versions: 32 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
DAW Integration: all major ones
I thought I’d please the piano players out there. This controller has as many keys as a real piano. No compromises there. The keys are semi-weighted and feel good. You can power it with only USB, no power supply needed.
Why we love it: it’s a full-size 88 key MIDI keyboard for 200 USD.
Kawai VPC1 Virtual Piano Controller
Price: $1850 USD
Key features:
88 Keys (Fully-Weighted)
MIDI in/out
2 Pedal Inputs
Comes with Grand Piano Pedals (Damper, Sostenuto and Soft)
Software or DAW included: VPC Editor
DAW Integration: does not map automatically, must be manually mapped.
Ok this isn’t cheap. But a fully weighted MIDI keyboard usually isn’t. There are 88 wooden keys that feel much like a grand piano. This controller can be powered with a USB cable only! Kawai are acoustic piano makers – it’s very high quality. It has MIDI in and out so you can play synth modules with it. It also comes with well-built piano pedals to plug into your keyboard.
Why we love it: it’s simply the best fully weighted MIDI keyboard.
Ultra compact and portable
This is the section for small MIDI keyboard controllers. Perfect for making music while traveling or if you have limited studio space. Keep in mind that keys on mini MIDI controllers are quite small.
Looking for the best 25 key MIDI controller? Or even 32 and 37 keys? Here they are:
Price range: $70- 180 USD
Akai LPK25
Price: $70 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Arpeggiator, Sustain and Tap Tempo
Other versions: 49 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
Software or DAW included: Ignite
DAW Integration: all
This ultra-compact MIDI keyboard has four programmable memory banks. Other key features it has: arpeggiator, sustain, octave up, octave down, and tap tempo.
Why we love it: the arpeggiator and sustain buttons make it very fun to create endless note patterns.
Alesis V Mini
Price: $80 USD
Key features:
25 keys (Mini Synth-Action)
4 Knobs
4 Pads
Dedicated buttons: Octave Up/Down, Pitch Bend, Sustain, Modulation
Software or DAW included: Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech
DAW integration: all
If you like the Alesis V series: this is the compact version. It’s got the same sleek look and illuminated buttons. It’s also well-priced for a mini MIDI keyboard that has knobs and buttons too.
Why we love it: great design and great price for keys, knobs and pads.
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32
Price: $80 USD
Key features:
32 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
1 Knob
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Sustain, Pitch Bend, Modulation, and more.
Other versions: 49 keys, 61 keys, 88 keys
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech Xpand!2. Connects to iOS (separate kit required)
DAW Integration: all
Unlike most ultra-compact MIDI keyboard controllers, it has 32 keys and not 25. You get a little bit more. It’s the perfect companion to producing with you DAW on the road (on that 12 hour flight!)
Why we love it: it went just a little further than others giving you 32 instead of 25 keys. That one programmable knob can come in handy.
Akai MPK Mini Mk II
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
8 Knobs
8 Pads
Dedicated Buttons: Octave up/down, Tap Tempo, and more
1 Thumbstick (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included: Tracktion
DAW Integration: all
Don’t underestimate this little one. It’s currently #1 Best Seller in Computer Recording Equipment on Amazon. It has a knobs and pads. It’s super compact. What’s unique about it the 4-way thumbstick for pitch-bend and modulation.
Why we love it: It’s a super compact and packs lots of features (knobs, pads, joystick) for a very cheap price.
MicroKEY-2 Air
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Korg’s Natural Touch Mini Keys)
Dedicated: Octave Up/Down
1 Joystick for Pitch-Bend + Modulation
Other versions: 37 keys, 49 keys, 61 keys
Software or DAW included: KORG Gadget,KORG Module, KORG Legacy Collection M1, UVI Digital Synsations, AAS Ultra Analog Session, AAS Strum Session, AAS Lounge Lizard Session, Propellerhead Reason Limited, Discount on Ableton Live.
DAW Integration: all major ones. Connects via Bluetooth to computers or mobile devices (batteries required) or through USB
Bluetooth connectivity is the unique feature of this MIDI keyboard. It comes with a bundle of iOS and computer software (Mac/PC). Are we getting closer to the dream of having a wireless studio? Maybe not, but the MicroKEY-2 Air is a little step in that direction.
Why we love it: it lets you connect your keyboard with bluetooth. It comes with loads of MIDI keyboard software. Great for iPad.
CME Xkey
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (full-sized keys, computer keyboard style)
Dedicated Butons: Octave Up/Down and more
Pitchbend, Modulation, Sustain
Other versions: 37 keys
Software or DAW included included: download the free Xkey Plus app to customize your keyboard
DAW integration: all
Yes the keys feel like an Apple keyboard. But they’re also velocity sensitive and have polyphonic aftertouch. Pretty cool for a paper-thin keyboard. If you like all your portable devices to match the aluminum look, this is for you. If you like the look and feel of this and want bluetooth connectivity: look into the Xkey Air
Why we love it: it’s ultra slim and light. It’s got a lot of power for something so thin. Very good as an iPad MIDI keyboard.
Novation Launchpad Mini
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
64 Pads
16 buttons
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station VST, 1GB of samples
DAW integration: all, total integration with Ableton Live, FL Studio and Novation’s Launchpad iOS app. Connects with iOS (separate connection kit required)
This mini grid MIDI controller is a great travel buddy or for small studio spaces. It’s designed for Ableton Live – if you don’t already have it you get a light version. Use it either to trigger clips or even as a mixer.
Why we love it: it’s a compact grid controller that doubles as a mixer.
Novation Launchkey Mini 25
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
25 keys (mini Synth Action)
16 pads
8 knobs
Dedicated buttons: Octave Up/Down, Track and more
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station VST, V Station VST, 1GB of samples
DAW integration: all, total integration with Ableton Live, FL Studio and Novation’s Launchpad iOS app. Works with iPad (requires a separate connection kit)
This is your portable all-in-one Ableton music production controller. It has a bit of everything and is conceived for seamless integration with Ableton Live. It’s got a wide range of possible functions for you to decide.
Why we love it: Packs a lot of functionality and comes with software and soft synth bundles. Good as an iOS MIDI keyboard controller.
M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32
Price: $100 USD
Key features:
32 Keys (Mini Synth-Action)
8 Knobs
8 Pads
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Pitch Bend, Modulation, Sustain and more
Software or DAW included included: Ignite
DAW integration: all, ‘Hypercontrol’ automatic-mapping technology
This is an easy plug-and-play mini MIDI keyboard. It allows you to customize your setup from the keyboard – no editing software required. It’s got 32 keys in the same style at the M-Audio Keystation with added knobs and pads.
Why we love it: easy integration with all major DAWs and added controls.
Arturia KeyStep
Price: $120 USD
Key features:
32 keys (Synth Action Slimkeys with Aftertouch)
Dedicated knobs: Seq/Arp Mode, Time Div, Rate
Dedicated buttons: Rec, Play, Stop, Tap, Octave Up/Down, Sustain,
1 mode Switch: Arpeggiator or Sequencer
1 Pedal Input
2 Touchstrips (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
DAW integration: all
Unique feature: this controller is also a 64-step polyphonic MIDI sequencer. Another major benefit is the variety of connections: MIDI in/out, CV/Gate, DIN Sync, and Sync. This means that you can use it to play or sequence vintage analog synths.
Why we love it: an excellent choice for playing live. Lots of connection options: it’s ideal for those who want to connect old and new gear. And it’s also a sequencer! A definite favourite.
IK Multimedia – iRig Keys
Price: $130 USD
Key features:
37 Keys (Mini Synth-action)
1 Volume Knob
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Set, Program Up/Down
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included included: IK’s SampleTank iOS app, SampleTank 2 L for Mac/PC
DAW integration: all
iOS music makers: this is for you! This ultra-compact MIDI keyboard comes with connectors for PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone, and iPod Touch. You can save and recall customized setups from an app or DAW. It also has an interesting number of keys (37), more than most mini controllers.
Why we love it: it connects directly into iOS devices or computers (Mac/PC). It’s the best MIDI keyboard for iPad.
Keith McMillen QuNexus
Price: $180 USD
Key features:
25 keys (with Smart Sensor and aftertouch)
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Record, Play, Bend and more
Pitch Bend pad
Software or DAW included: QuNexus Editor, QuNexus OSC Bridge, QuNexus Ableton Live Sets (all downloadable online)
DAW integration: all major ones
The top advantage of this slim MIDI controller is the quality of the keys. The are equipped with Smart Sensor technology which detects pressure, velocity and location of the finger. It has polyphonic aftertouch. A major plus is the capacity to connect pretty much everything with it: MIDI (via optional MIDI Expander), CV, OSC, and USB. Keith McMillen is also known for extremely durable designs. They say you can spill water or run it over with a car and it’ll still work.
What we love: the durability, great design and connectivity. It’s got Smart Sensing keys that detects various kinds of human gestures.
Midrange
Controllers of this range are complete and have semi-weighted keys for a better feel when playing. They’re well built and most have everything you need: pads, knobs, faders and buttons.
These also feature Aftertouch: data about how much pressure you apply on the key you press. It can allow for creative uses of vibrato and volumes variations.
If you’re willing to spend a little more for better quality: one of these MIDI keyboard controllers is your next buy.
Price range: $200-500 USD
Korg Triton Taktile 25
Price: $200 USD
Key features:
25 keys (Semi-Weighted)
8 Pads
8 Faders
1 X-Y Pad
1 Ribbon
Dedicated Buttons for Play, Stop, Octave Up/Down & more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend, Modulation)
2 Pedal Inputs
MIDI in/out
Software or DAW included: KORG KONTROL Editor, Korg Legacy Collection
DAW integration: all major ones
There are two unique composition functions in this MIDI keyboard. ‘Chord Scale’ automatically triggers chords according to the key and scale you choose. This makes songwriting infinitely more intuitive and quick. ‘Touch Scale’ helps you generate melodies using the touch pad. The Triton is also a standalone synth with 512 preset sounds. Plug and play!
Why we love it: it makes songwriting much easier with the Touch Scale and Chord Scale functions.
Novation Launchkey MK2
Price: $200 USD
Key features:
25 Keys (Synth-Action)
16 Pads
8 Knobs
9 faders
Dedicated Buttons: Octave Up/Down, Record, Play and more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
Software or DAW included included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V-Station virtual instruments and 1 GB of Loopmasters samples.
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
DAW Integration: all, designed for Ableton Live
The workflow of the Launchkey is designed specifically for Ableton Live (but it will map with any major DAW). It’s got a lot of faders for mixing and playing live. It’s a great controller at a decent price.
Why we love it: a great all-in-one Ableton Live MIDI keyboard for a good price.
Alesis VI 49
Price: $230 USD
Key features:
49 keys (Semi-weighted with Aftertouch)
16 Pads
12 Knons
36 Buttons
Dedicated Buttons for Play, Stop, Octave Up/Down & more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend, Modulation)
1 Pedal Input
MIDI out
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech
DAW integration: all major ones
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
Like the Alesis V series, the pads are conveniently located on the left beside the keyboard. You can use pads with your left hand while your play keys with your right. The unique feature of this controller is the quantity of assignable buttons: 36.
Why we love it: sleek clever design and lots of buttons.
Novation Impulse
Price: $270 USD
Key features:
49 keys (Semi-Weighted with Aftertouch)
8 Pads
8 Knobs
9 Assignable Buttons
Dedicated Button:Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, and more
9 Faders
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
MIDI in/out
2 Pedal Inputs
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station, Loopmasters sample library, and Mike The Drummer
DAW integration: all major ones
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
The keys on this one are full size and semi-weighted – they feel great. Unique feature: the ‘roll’ button for creative drum pattern programming. Attack Magazine says it’s “one of the best MIDI controllers on the market.” The pads are backlit and have aftertouch.
Why we love it: we’ll agree with Attack Mag and say it’s one of the best out there. Especially good for drum programming.
Akai MPK249
Price: $270 USD
Key features:
49 keys (Semi-Weighted with Aftertouch)
16 Pads
8 Knobs
8 faders
8 Assignable Buttons
Dedicated Buttons:Octave Up/Down, Play, Stop, Arpeggiator, Latch, and more
Display screen
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend + Modulation)
MIDI in/out
2 Pedal Inputs
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite and Pro MPC Essentials
DAW Integration: all major ones, compatible with iOS (separate connection kit required)
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
This controller has both semi-weighted keys and functions from iconic Akai MPCs (including Note Repeat and MPC Swing). It has a lot of controls. It allows you to save presets.
Why we love it: a great MIDI keyboard controller with the added Akai MPC workflow.
M-Audio Code 49
Price: $275 USD
Key features:
49 keys (Semi-Weighted with Aftertouch)
16 Pads
8 Knobs
9 Faders
1 X-Y Pad
Dedicated Buttons:Octave Up/Down, for Play, Stop and more
2 Wheels (Pitch Bend, Modulation)
2 Pedal Inputs
MIDI in/out
Software or DAW included: Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Technology Loom, AIR Music Technology Hybrid 3
DAW integration: all major ones
Other versions: 25 keys, 61 keys
The pads are backlit and velocity-sensitive. It’s great for playing live gigs in low light. The Code 49 has an X-Y pad for precise control over effects. Unique feature: the keyboard can split into 4 zones (even overlap them) for controlling two sounds at once.
Why we love it: the pads are great for performing or launching Ableton clips, and much more. I also love when a MIDI keyboard comes with an X-Y pad.
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