

Aspiring musicians looking to enhance their music playing experience as well as improve the quality of their songs could achieve this with one of the top models in a MIDI keyboard controller. In fact, MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) keyboard controllers allow the musically gifted to set up a mini recording studio at home.
And although these annotation experts for artists look like any kind of keyboard used in real time, they actually serve a much broader function. Indeed, after connecting what you hope to be the best midi keyboard controller to your computer system, you’ll be able to produce music in a more natural way.
The sounds created with our keyboard for music production are generated by computer software installed on our music manager such as virtual instruments (VSTi) and plugins. However, it’s entirely possible to use virtual piano programmes to allow us to play our MIDI keyboard just like a regular piano or electronic keyboard.
Of course, It’s important for all members of a band to talk to each other. The MIDI keyboard controller allows all musical instruments in your arrangement to communicate via connection to a computer. DAW computer technology allows the musician to have their digital sounds produced and edited professionally.
In a nutshell, a smooth-running MIDI keyboard controller is the way forward for musicians aiming to make songs that sound like music should do. And as most performers prefer creating tunes as naturally as possible – playing instruments as opposed to moving a mouse around, buying a top MIDI keyboard controller is the key.
The Best MIDI Keyboard Controller
1Akai Professional MPK MIDI Keyboard Controller
Amateur musicians or musical maestros that have always fancied themselves as the next Kraftwerk will have the right tool at hand with this lean, mean music making machine. And with the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII boasting self-supported operation, it won’t be too long before you have realized your digital music dreams.
Performers or recording artists of all music genres should seriously consider the attributes of this mini midi keyboard by Akai. But if you think that it’s only the more obvious array of features on this best midi keyboard controller that it’s got to offer, then think again.
25 synth-action keys
Drum pad feature
Extremely portable
USB-MIDI connection
Self-supported operation
- BrandAkai Professional
- ModelMPK Mini MKII (White)
- Weight1.65 pounds
2Korg NANOKEY2BK MIDI Keyboard Controller
Music makers that appreciate simplicity regarding the features on midi controllers as well as portability will not be left wanting with this 25-key MIDI controller from Korg. And if you’ve a need for speed, the velocity-sensitive keys on this baby will have you wondering why it’s taken you so long to snap up this music data communicator.
Perfectionists with aims of making the most of the space they have in their modest home studio should understand why the Korg NANOKEY2BK 25-Key Midi Controller is in second place on our well-researched list. Indeed, easily fitting in this low-profile midi keyboard among a computer setup is another strong selling point for this model.
25 velocity-sensitive keys
Low-profile design
8 channel function
Supports DAW programmes
Compact design
- BrandKorg
- ModelNANOKEY2BK
- Weight12.8 ounces
3Novation Launchpad Ableton Live MIDI Keyboard Controller
Sci-Fi fans drawn to this option in MIDI controllers could be forgiven for thinking this cutting-edge digital manager looks like something a member of the Star Trek crew may have in their hands. However, not only is this contender in our list of top MIDI controllers far from being science fiction but also a game changer for musicians.
Melody makers who went through the whole rave scene saying they don’t like the backlit pad feature on this model are probably being economical with the truth. And just because the Launchpad Ableton Live controller by Novation is bright and cheerful, it doesn’t mean to say that we shouldn’t take it too seriously.
64 RGB backlit pads
Bright and colourful
Launchpad Arcade
Neat 8×8 pad grid
Seamless integration
- BrandNovation
- ModelAMS-LAUNCHPAD-S-MK2
- Weight1.98 pounds
4Alesis Q25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
Although fourth in our much-deliberated buying guide list, this heavyweight in the midi keyboard controller division is not to be disregarded. And if you really don’t have the time or the inclination to mess around with installing or adding software to get yourself up and running, you’ll appreciate the already included Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition.
The velocity-sensitive keys on Alesis Q25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller combined with pitch and modulation wheels is something else to raise the interests in musical geniuses or amateur producers alike. Artists that value simplicity will like the fact that the USB cable can be used for both data and power transmission.
25 velocity-sensitive keys
Computer-based digital audio
Dual function USB cable
Includes Ableton Live software
Pitch and modulation wheels
- BrandAlesis
- ModelQ25
- Weight3.1 pounds
5M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV USB Pad/Keyboard MIDI Controller
As we reach midway through our list of the more desirable options in the best midi keyboard controller, it should become clear that we have put a lot of thought into this listing. As many users of modern MIDI keyboard controllers rely heavily on portability, it’s fair that the mobile M-Audio Oxygen 25 MK IV USB is in contention. .
One of the more appealing features of portable of this 25 key midi controller is the kind of software it comes with. Of course, travelling musicians that don’t have the sort of budget that more established music makers have will want to purchase a midi keyboard with software already installed.
25 synth-action keys
8 velocity-sensitive beat pads
8 transferable mixing knobs
VIP software included
Ultra-portable design
- BrandM-Audio
- ModelOxygen 25
- Weight3.96 pounds
6M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV Keyboard MIDI Controller
Although not too different to the 25 key model detailed above, this other offering from the leader in MIDI keyboard controllers is almost twice as heavy and considerably longer. That said, the extra keys and additional features on this master of MIDI controllers is what makes it very good value for money.
Music virtuosos set on perfecting the unmistakable sounds of The Doors or hoping to give Orbital a run for their money can’t go too far wrong with this usb midi keyboard. In fact, there are many reasons for choosing the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV – the eight assignable knobs for increased mixing capabilities being just one of them.
49 synth-action keys
8 velocity-sensitive beat pads
8 transferable mixing knobs
Includes Virtual Instrument Player (VIP)
Super-portable design
- BrandM-Audio
- ModelOxygen 49
- Weight6.39 pounds
7Novation Launchkey 25 USB Keyboard Controller
Fortunately for music producers not all that competent at playing the piano or other keyboards, this one of the best midi keyboard controller around at the moment provides a solution. And as this top model is easy to set up, performers with a lot to learn can get the ball rolling in their quest to become more proficient.
Users of Ableton Live software will be delighted with this model – using this technology to enhance the performance of the music they are into. Of course, we don’t need to be involved in just one genre of music to benefit from Ableton Live Lite – the software that comes with this model is suitable for a range of melodies.
25 note MK2 version
16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads
8 control knobs
Software for Mac and PC
Quick and easy set up
- BrandNovation
- ModelAMS-LAUNCHKEY-25-MK2
- Weight5.07 pounds
8Akai Professional MPD218
If you believe that a bad craftsmen shouldn’t blame their tools for a poor job, then you’re probably one step closer to realising why top music producers and performers purchase this equipment to help create perfect tunes. With its chunky and wide backlit pads, it shouldn’t be too difficult for musicians to create the sounds they are after.
The built-in feature preventing users from having an unwanted beat after hitting one of the pads shouldn’t be all that hard to master. And the bulky no-nonsense design of Akai Professional MPD218 controller provides musicians with assurance that they’re not going to damage it with over-enthused use.
16 wide and chunky backlit pads
6 knobs / 6 buttons
Includes Ableton Live and other software
Heavy duty design
Simple and compact
- BrandAkai Professional
- ModelMPD218
- Weight1.65 pounds
9Roland Lightweight, Weighted-Action Keyboard
As most musicians will agree with, preparing for your next gig can be almost as exciting as actually performing at the show. With this in mind, there is no wonder why so many experienced or even novice music performers choose to purchase this fantastic offering from Roland.
And it’s not just the fact that users of this magical machine are able to get all their music ideas consolidated and organised properly before a gig but the fact it is lightweight makes it real easy to get to your next music manifest. Moreover, its battery-powered feature allows busy musicians to set up without much delay.
61-note keyboard
Enhanced performance features
Lightweight design
Eight track pattern sequence
Sample import feature
- BrandRoland
- ModelJUNO-DS61
- Weight17 pounds
10ROLI Seaboard Block
Music composers that are more likely to search for a public space to get into some tune making won’t want to overlook this portable model. With its 24 keywave feature and two octave playing surface, music makers who love the freedom of doing their stuff wherever they want to have found the perfect solution with this Seaboard.
The soft surface of this leader in the more simplified versions of midi controller allows users to experience a more subtle way of putting together tracks they have been working on of late. And as you’ll be able to play a whole spectrum of sounds from instruments, the sky really is the limit with this compact melody maker.
24 keywave, two octave playing surface
Over 100 free sounds
Highly-portable design
5D Touch technology
Pressure-responsive
- BrandROLI
- ModelSeaboard Block
- Weight2.29 pounds