Best MIDI keyboards 2025: Mac, PC and iOS keyboards for players, composers and producers

An Arturia Keystep Pro MIDI keyboard
(Image credit: Future)

If you want to make music in the modern age, you'll need to add one of the best MIDI keyboards to your setup. No matter what style of music you're creating, a MIDI keyboard is a crucial component to allow you to translate your idea into the digital realm. With so many to pick from in 2025, we've created this guide to get you pointed in the right direction.

Over the last 17 years, we've reviewed well over 100 MIDI keyboards, so it's a pretty safe bet to say we know what we're talking about. This experience has allowed us to pick a selection of MIDI keyboards, each of which has been extensively tested by our reviews team. We've also sorted them by use case, which should make it easier for you to narrow down your choices.

If you're buying your first MIDI keyboard, we'd recommend you go for the Akai MPK Mini MK3, which offers a huge array of features at a relatively low price point. For those who aren't new to MIDI keyboards, you should check out the Arturia KeyStep Pro, which has a huge array of features for more experienced music-makers. If you need to do some more research before buying, have a look at our FAQs section which has loads of common questions answered by the experts here at MusicRadar.

Our top picks

Best overall

An Arturia KeyStep Pro MIDI keyboard with a pair of headphones lying on it

The KeyStep Pro is one of them most feature-rich MIDI keyboards around (Image credit: Future)
The best all-rounder MIDI keyboard

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac, iOS
No. of keys: 37
Key size: Slim
Key type: Velocity and aftertouch sensitive
Controls: Four-track controller/sequencer, with arp and drum sequencing modes. I, 4x CV voices w/ pitch, gate and mod/velocity outs, clock in/out/reset
Connectivity: USB, sustain in, speaker and line output
Power: USB or mains
Dimensions: 589 x 208 x 38mm
Weight (kg): 2.7

Reasons to buy

+
Handy mix of analogue and digital I/O
+
Lots of creative sequencing tools
+
Arp and drum modes are lots of fun

Reasons to avoid

-
Mini keys unlikely to appeal to serious players
-
Mod and pitch touch strips are small
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: ARTURIA KEYSTEP PRO
Si Truss
EXPERT VERDICT: ARTURIA KEYSTEP PRO
Si Truss

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

Read more: Arturia Keystep Pro review

Best beginner

An Akai MPK Mini MK3 lying on a wooden desk with a laptop

For beginners, we'd recommend the Akai MPK Mini MK3 (Image credit: Future)
The best MIDI keyboard for value

Specifications

Compatibility: Mac/PC/iOS
No. of keys: 25
Key size: Mini
Key type: velocity-sensitive
Controls: Eight assignable encoders, eight MPC pads, full transport controls, 4-way joystick
Connectivity: USB
Power: Bus-powered
Software: MPC Beats, Bassline, Tubesynth, Electric, Hybrid 3, Mini Grand, Velvet
Dimensions: 32 x 18 x 4 cm
Weight: 750g

Reasons to buy

+
Loads of control
+
Great bundled software
+
Excellent value for money

Reasons to avoid

-
Mini keys are certainly mini
-
Thumb sticks not for everyone
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: AKAI MPK MINI MK3
A headshot of music producer Jon Musgrave
EXPERT VERDICT: AKAI MPK MINI MK3
Jon Musgrave

"The MPK mini mk3 successfully improves on the previous model and it’s not bad for under £100. A very decent upgrade with genuinely pro features, that cements its position in the top handful of mini keyboard controllers available."

Read more: Akai MPK Mini Mk3 review

Best budget

A Nektar SE25 compact MIDI keyboard

If you want the best value for money, the Nektar SE25 is a great choice (Image credit: Nektar)
A teeny-tiny MIDI keyboard that's incredible value for money

Specifications

Compatibility: Mac/PC
No. of keys: 25
Key size: Mini
Key type: velocity-sensitive
Controls: 6 assignable buttons
Connectivity: USB
Power: Bus-powered
Software: Bitwig Studio 8-track
Dimensions: 33 x 10 x 2 cm
Weight: 400g

Reasons to buy

+
Awesome value for money
+
Compact size
+
Nice multi-function buttons

Reasons to avoid

-
Not everyone will enjoy the mini keys

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: NEKTAR SE25
Andy Jones author image
EXPERT VERDICT: NEKTAR SE25
Andy Jones

"The Nektar SE25 keyboard itself is playable, not the greatest experience for 'proper' players of course, but when you're on the move this will be all you need: a means to input beats and notes with velocity sensitivity. If you need something bigger and more playable, you'll need to return to the studio and get your wallet out, simple as that."

Read more: Nektar SE25 review

Best for Ableton

A Novation Launchkey Mini Mk4 MIDI keyboard

For Ableton users the Novation Launchkey Mini integrates brilliantly (Image credit: Novation)
The best Ableton-friendly supermini controller

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac, iOS
No. of Keys: 25
Key size: Mini
Key type: velocity-sensitive
Controls: Octave shift, Transpose, Pitch and Modulation strips, 16 velocity-sensitive backlit RGB launch pads, 8 rotary encoders, 10 function buttons
Connectivity: USB B port, 3.5mm TRS Type A MIDI out, Sustain Pedal input
Power: USB
Software: Ableton Live Lite, two months of Splice Sounds, AAS Session Bundle, Softube Time & Tone, Spitfire Audio LABS Expressive Strings, Klevgrand DAW Cassette and R0Verb, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, membership of Novation Sound Collective
Dimensions (mm): 330 x 172 x 40
Weight (kg): 0.69

Reasons to buy

+
Fantastic arpeggiator
+
Updated, fresh design
+
Brilliant integration with Live
+
Chord detector feature is neat

Reasons to avoid

-
No MIDI adapter included
At a Glance

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

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

Of course, the Launchkey Mini Mk4 isn’t exclusive to Ableton, as it plays perfectly nicely with other DAWs too, but if you’re a Live user, it undoubtedly represents the best solution at this price point. Incremental improvements from the Mk3 make it a fantastic evolution, albeit not a complete revolution from previous versions.

As a general-use MIDI keyboard, we found the Launchkey Mini Mk4 to be more than adequate for our dual-octave, travel-friendly needs. If you want a small, velocity-sensitive MIDI keyboard with impressive connectivity, we don't think you can go wrong with this.

EXPERT VERDICT: NOVATION LAUNCHKEY MINI MK4
MusicRadar logo
EXPERT VERDICT: NOVATION LAUNCHKEY MINI MK4
Martin Delaney

"The Launchkey Minis are ideal for producers on a budget, educators who want to kit out a classroom, and pros who want a fully-featured travel keyboard. It’s not a matter of which size is better, it’s a matter of which size works best for you. The updated Launchkey Minis bring incremental improvements. Although superficially they look like Ableton controllers, they’re equally handy with other DAWs and hardware."

Read more: Novation Launchkey Mini Mk4 review

Best compact

A Korg microKEY2 Air-25 MIDI keyboard

If you travel a lot with your music-making, the microKEY2 is powerful yet compact (Image credit: Korg)
The best compact MIDI keyboard that works wirelessly

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac, iOS
Number of keys: 25
Key size: Mini
Key type: Velocity-sensitive
Controls: Joystick, Arpeggiator button, Sustain/TAP button, Octave Shift buttons
Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth
Power: USB or batteries
Size: 39.5 x 13.1 x 0.52cm
Weight: 0.67kg

Reasons to buy

+
Works wirelessly
+
Decent Natural Touch keyboard
+
Very compact

Reasons to avoid

-
Mini keys aren't for everyone
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: KORG MICROKEY2 AIR-25
Andy Jones author image
EXPERT VERDICT: KORG MICROKEY2 AIR-25
Andy Jones

"And that just about sums up the Korg microKEY2 Air-25: great value considering what you get. The Arpeggiator is easy to use with that joystick combo, you can also tap out your tempos while using it and there's a lot of MIDI control options in here. But it's the wireless connectivity where it really excels. Just using a keyboard like this with your DAW makes your music production experience much freer."

Read more: Korg microKEY2 Air-25 review

Best 49 keys

A Novation 49 SL MkIII MIDI keyboard

The Novation 49 SL offers a great balance between full-size keys and plenty of extra buttons (Image credit: Novation)
The best for combined software/hardware control

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac
Number of keys: 49
Key size: Full-size
Key type: semi-weighted, synth-style, velocity-sensitive
Controls: Pitch and Modulation wheels, 16-full colour RGB backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads, page and scene launch buttons, 8 continuous rotary knobs, 8 sliders, 6 transport controls, octave/transpose buttons, track buttons, 5 RGB TFT screens
Connectivity: USB, MIDI Out/Out2/Thru, Sustain and Expression pedal, Footswitch pedal, CV/Gate/Modulation 1 and 2, Clock out
Power: Mains power
Size: 81.7 x 30 x 10cm
Weight: N/A

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent, easy-to-use sequencer
+
Flexible range of digital and analogue control
+
Components system makes it easy to manage and edit template

Reasons to avoid

-
No per-channel swing
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: NOVATION 49 SL MKIII
Si Truss
EXPERT VERDICT: NOVATION 49 SL MKIII
Si Truss

"Frankly, the ability to sequence and control analogue hardware, MIDI-equipped instruments, plugins and your DAW all from one interface and clock source is excellent. During our review tests, for example, we had the sequencer triggering chords on a Korg Minilogue, polyrhythmic grooves from an Analog RYTM and TR-8, sequenced pads in FXpansion Cypher 2, all while automating each, sending an analogue clock to a CV-equipped effects setup, with the simultaneous ability to adjust levels and Devices in Live at the push of a button."

Read more: Novation 49 SL MkIII review

Best 88-key

A Native Instruments Kontrol S88 MIDI keyboard

If you're a piano player the NI Kontrol S88 will make you feel right at home (Image credit: Native Instruments)

7. Native Instruments Kontrol S88

The best smart MIDI controller for your plugins and DAW

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac
Number of keys: 88
Key size: Full-size
Key type: Weighted, velocity-sensitive with aftertouch
Controls: Pitch and Modulation wheels, touch strip, two high-res colour screens, Light Guide, 4-directional push encoder
Connectivity: USB
Power: USB
Size: 100 x 29.7 x 8.4cm
Weight: 6.55kg

Reasons to buy

+
Tight Komplete and DAW integration
+
Provides playing assistance
+
Spend less time with your mouse

Reasons to avoid

-
No sliders
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: NATIVE INSTRUMENT KONTROL S61
MusicRadar logo
EXPERT VERDICT: NATIVE INSTRUMENT KONTROL S61
James Russell

"Those who want to take things ‘out of the box’ and who are already somewhat invested in NI’s ecosystem should see it as a serious contender, not a cheap option. Those who own a Mk2 already will be hard to tempt, although heavy Kontakt users may consider it worth their while, especially in the case of those who are moving up to 61 keys from a smaller model. Likely only heavy Kontakt users will consider the Mk3 upgrade, but if you’re new to Kontrol keyboards, the Mk3 remains a brilliant option."

Read more Native Instruments Kontrol S61 review

Best for Logic Pro

A Nektar Impact LX88+ MIDI controller with a pair of headphones resting on the keybed

The Nektar Impact LX88+ pairs brilliantly with a copy of Logic Pro (Image credit: Future)
Our favourite controller for Logic Pro

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac, iOS
Number of keys: 88
Key size: Full-size
Key type: Velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted
Controls: 8 potentiometers, 9 faders, 9 assignable buttons, 6 transport buttons, 8 velocity-sensitive pads
Connectivity: USB, MIDI Out port, 1/4-inch TS jack footswitch input
Power: USB or mains
Size: 127.6 x 27.9 x 8.9cm
Weight: 8.2kg

Reasons to buy

+
A full-size keyboard
+
Solid but portable
+
Great value

Reasons to avoid

-
Keys aren't hammer-action
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

Read our full Nektar Impact LX88+ review

EXPERT VERDICT: NEKTAR IMPACT LX88+
A headshot of music producer Jon Musgrave
EXPERT VERDICT: NEKTAR IMPACT LX88+
Jon Musgrave

"Despite the number of features, the LX88+ is reasonably compact and at 18 kilos light enough to be portable. What’s more the keys feel good and the mechanical noise is quite low (both factors that are often lacking in more affordable keyboards). The LX88+ won’t suit everyone (and some 88-key users will be after a full weighted hammer action). But at £300 (and with a free copy of Bitwig 8-Track bundled) it’s a bargain and well worth testing."

Read more: Nektar Impact LX88+ review

Best for FL Studio

A Novation FLkey Mini MIDI keyboard

For the FL Studio users the Novation FLkey has brilliant DAW integration (Image credit: Novation)
The best MIDI keyboard for FL users live and in the studio

Specifications

Compatibility: PC, Mac, iOS
No. of keys: 25
Key size: Mini
Key type: Velocity sensitive
Controls: 16 x Velocity Sensitive RGB Pads, Pitch, Modulation Touch Strips, 8 encoders
Connectivity: 1 x 1/4" (sustain), USB, 1 x 1/8" (midi out), 1 x Type USB-B
Power: USB
Dimensions: 329.9 x 171.9 x 40.8mm
Weight (kg): 0.73

Reasons to buy

+
Access important FL features
+
Super portable for working on the go
+
Awesome pad feel

Reasons to avoid

-
Not for non-FL users
At a Glance

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

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: NOVATION FLKEY MINI
MusicRadar logo
EXPERT VERDICT: NOVATION FLKEY MINI
Martin Delaney

"The Mini is a flexible little controller that you can take anywhere and fits into the smallest nook in your studio or live rig, but if we were going to choose just one model, it’d be the FLkey 37 - that display and the extra buttons, and the expanded playing functions, make it worth the extra money and the extra space, recommended for any FL Studio user seeking keyboard integration and hardware control. Not that there’s a lot of competition, but even if there was, the FLkey range, in particular the FLkey 37, are superb controllers for FL Studio - they’ll prove essential for live and studio use alike."

Read more: Novation FLkey Mini review

Best for iPad

Best MIDI keyboards: Arturia Keystep 37

For those who compose with an iPad, the Arturia Keystep 37 is a great match (Image credit: Future)
The best for compact setups

Specifications

Compatibility: Mac/PC
No. of keys: 37
Key size: Mini
Key type: Velocity sensitive
Controls: Four assignable encoders, transport controls, touch strips for pitch and modulation
Connectivity: USB, clock sync, CV gate/pitch/modulation
Power: 12v DC or bus
Software: Ableton Live Lite
Dimensions: 55 x 35 x 15 cm
Weight: 1.6kg

Reasons to buy

+
Sequencer and arpeggiator offer a lot of creative potential
+
Strum functionality is very fun!

Reasons to avoid

-
DAW mapping can be temperamental
At a Glance

Buy if you make music on an iPad: A small-scale MIDI keyboard with plenty of playability, it makes a great match with an iPad for on-the-go music-making.
Avoid if you like full-size keys: This MIDI keyboard has mini keys, so won't appeal to those with bigger hands or that prefer a full-size key.

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

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

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

EXPERT VERDICT: ARTURIA KEYSTEP 37
Si Truss
EXPERT VERDICT: ARTURIA KEYSTEP 37
Si Truss

"Given its place as a mid-point in the KeyStep range, it’s understandable that there’s nothing exactly game-changing here, but it’s still another solid entry into Arturia’s controller range. It has a lot to appeal to users who want a touch more flexibility than the base model without the multi-track complexity of the flagship. As with other ‘Step controllers, digital compatibility works smoothly, and Arturia’s MIDI Control Centre allows for extra customisation and flexibility. A flexible mid-level controller with little not to like."

Read more: Arturia Keystep 37 review

Spec comparison

Here you'll find all of the entries in this guide in a handy table format with their most important specifications. This will help you narrow down what the right choice is for your particular needs.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
ModelKeysKey sizeVelocityAftertouchWeight
Arturia Keystep Pro37MiniYesYes2.7 kg
Akai MPK Mini Mk325MiniYesNo0.75 kg
Nektar SE2525MiniYesNo0.4 kg
Novation Launchkey Mini Mk425MiniYesNo0.69 kg
Korg microKEY2 Air-2525MiniYesNo0.67 kg
Novation 49 SL MkIII49FullYesYes5.56 kg
Native Instruments Kontrol S8888FullYesYes6.55 kg
Nektar Impact LX88+88FullYesNo8.2 kg
Novation FLkey Mini25MiniYesYes0.73 kg
Arturia Keystep 3737MiniYesYes1.6 kg

Also consider

For us, the above MIDI keyboards are what you should be spending your money on, however we appreciate these might not fit every single musician's needs. So, here's some more of the MIDI keyboards we've tested for your consideration.

M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKV49-keys | Full-sized | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 2.9kg½

M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKV
49-keys | Full-sized | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 2.9kg
With a 3-segment LED display and eight back-lit red pads, split into two banks of eight, the M-Audio Oxygen is a lighter version of the popular Pro model. Functions are mostly triggered via soft keys and via ‘secondary modes’ from the keybed itself, making it ultra versatile.
★★★★½

Read more: M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKV review

Roland A-88MKII88-keys | Full-sized | Velocity-sensitive with escapement | USB or mains-powered | 16.3kg½

Roland A-88MKII
88-keys | Full-sized | Velocity-sensitive with escapement | USB or mains-powered | 16.3kg
The A-88MKII is a long-awaited update to Roland's much-loved A-88 MIDI keyboard. The footprint is compact - good news if you’re using it in the studio. Ivory Feel keys, 3-sensor key detection, and key-specific progressive hammer action, all deliver the feel of a real piano.
★★★★½

Read more: Roland A-88MKII review

Arturia MiniLab 3 25-keys | Mini | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 1.49kg½

Arturia MiniLab 3
25-keys | Mini | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 1.49kg
MiniLab 3 is the latest incarnation of Arturia’s 25-mini key MIDI controller keyboard. The new overhauled top panel is now graced with eight ultra-smooth continuous controllers, four sliders, and a mini display with accompanying push action rotary encoder.
★★★★½

Read more: Arturia MiniLab 3 review

Novation Launchkey 37 Mk337-keys | Full-size | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 2.18kg½

Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3
37-keys | Full-size | Velocity-sensitive | USB-powered | 2.18kg
Common to all of Novation’s ‘Mk3’ Launchkey devices (there are 25-, 37-, 49- and 61-key variants) is a sleek, matte-black look and low-profile design, along with a series of new features designed to take advantage of updated elements of Ableton Live.
★★★★½

Read more: Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3 review

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A2525-keys | Full-size | Semi-weighted | USB-powered | 2.5kg

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25
25-keys | Full-size | Semi-weighted | USB-powered | 2.5kg

Available in 25-, 49- and 61-key versions, the A-Series borrows many of the S-Series’ best features including the 4D Encoder for software navigation; eight touch-sensitive knobs for plugin parameter control; beefy pitch and mod wheels; and several backlit buttons.
★★★★★

Read more: Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A25 review

Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII49-keys | Full-size | Velocity-sensitive with aftertouch | USB or mains powered | 6.25kg½

Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII
49-keys | Full-size | Velocity-sensitive with aftertouch | USB or mains powered | 6.25kg
The Keylab MkII’s keyboard and pads are bolstered by DAW controls and deep integration with Arturia’s bundled Analog Lab 3 software. Although similar in layout to the KeyLab Essential, the MkII is a different unit, with a higher price tag and more upmarket feel.
★★★★½

Read more: Arturia Keylab 49 MkII review

How to choose

There's a massive amount of MIDI keyboards available in the modern age, which can make picking one a difficult decision. When we first started making music in the early noughties, there wasn't all that much choice, but thanks to the huge advances in tech you can now get a very full-featured MIDI keyboard for relatively little money.

We can make all the recommendations you want, but ultimately it's down to you to decide. Having had a lot of experience helping musicians in the music retail space, here are the steps we recommend to help you pick the best MIDI keyboard for your individual needs.

1. What are your needs?

First of all, you need to consider your music-making goals. Are you making EDM exclusively on the computer? Or are you making prog-rock epics with complex arrangements? These goals should inform what you go for, which is why we've arranged this guide by use case. Of course, you might have multiple requirements, in which case you'd be best served drawing up a shortlist.

2. Read reviews

Now you've got your shortlist, it's time to learn more about your top picks. Reading reviews can be a great way to gather more information, as the reviewer's experience with the MIDI keyboard should give you some insight into what you're likely to get from it. Just be mindful that not all reviews are unbiased like ours.

3. Do a direct comparison

If you've further rounded down your choices, you can do a direct comparison. This could be reading a versus piece like our Akai MPK Mini vs Arturia MiniLab, or by manually noting down specs to compare one to the other.

4. Choose your retailer

Hopefully, you've narrowed down your selection now, so it's time to look at retailers and see where it's available. You might want to check a few different places to get the very best price, and you can use the filters on the website to help with this. Google Shopping also has a feature that lets you see the price of an item at all the places it's available which can be really handy for bargain hunting.

5. Wait for a sale

If you're not in a hurry to get your hands on a MIDI keyboard, waiting for some Black Friday music deals can be a great way to grab a bargain. As well as Black Friday there are Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Amazon Prime Day which are all good opportunities to pick up gear for less.

FAQs

Close-up of Arturia Keystep controller

(Image credit: Future)

What key size do I need?

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

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

How many keys do I need?

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

What connectivity do I need?

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

What is DAW integration?

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

How we test

Detail of a Nektar Impact GX49 MIDI controller keyboard

(Image credit: Future)
MUSICRADAR IN NUMBERS

✔️ Over 100 MIDI keyboards tested
✔️More than 9,500 reviews on-site
✔️17 years of product testing

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

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

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

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

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

Latest updates

Disclaimer

17/01/25: We've added expert verdict boxes to each of the product entries to add more insight from our review team. There's now a spec comparison table to allow readers to easily compare different models at a glance.

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

Andy Jones

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

With contributions from