Compare the best midi controllers with expert reviews and ratings.
Last Updated: 2025λ 12μ 21μΌ 1 viewing now
| # | Product | Price | Rating | Reviews | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
$139.99 | 1,789 | View Deal | ||
|
2
|
$35.99 | 628 | View Deal | ||
|
3
|
$98.99 | 198 | View Deal | ||
|
4
|
$148.72 | 1,789 | View Deal | ||
|
5
|
$99.00 | 106 | View Deal | ||
|
6
|
$44.99 | 1 | View Deal | ||
|
7
|
$99.00 | 29,493 | View Deal | ||
|
8
|
$99.00 | 106 | View Deal | ||
|
9
|
$59.00 | 6,942 | View Deal | ||
|
10
|
$99.00 | 2,641 | View Deal | ||
|
11
|
$99.00 | 29,493 | View Deal | ||
|
12
|
$51.92 | 6,520 | View Deal | ||
|
13
|
$38.00 | 4,550 | View Deal | ||
|
14
|
$51.98 | 49 | View Deal | ||
|
15
|
$329.99 | 3,977 | View Deal | ||
|
16
|
$65.99 | 76 | View Deal | ||
|
17
|
$89.99 | 84 | View Deal | ||
|
18
|
$99.95 | 258 | View Deal | ||
|
19
|
$49.99 | 82 | View Deal | ||
|
20
|
$119.99 | 38 | View Deal |
The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus USB MIDI Keyboard Controller offers a compact 37-key keybed and 8 responsive MPC pads, making it ideal for musicians and producers on the go. With versatile connectivity options, including CV/Gate and MIDI I/O, it seamlessly integrates with your digital audio workstation. Rated 4.6 by over 1,700 users, this controller provides the essential tools for creative expression and precise control in music production.
"This is a fantastic controller for MIDI or CV capable synthesizers. The keybed has a light touch and is velocity sensitive. I find the MPC pads to be rather stiff, however. The pitch and mod wheels work perfectly. I've tested it with my Roland AIRA chord synth and I've also hooked it up to my PC and..."
The Donner Mini MIDI Keyboard N-25 is a compact 25-key controller designed for aspiring musicians and producers. Its velocity-sensitive keys provide a responsive playing experience, while the straightforward layout simplifies music creation. Priced at $35.99, this controller comes with music production software, making it an excellent value for those looking to enhance their music production skills without the complexity.
"The short of it, and I'll fill in later...I got this NOT to use with a DAW. I got it to control my mini synth stuff like, say Roland P6, that typically have 1/8" midi connectors.This keyboard uses MIDI Channel 1 and has a "Type B" 1/8" MIDI output. To connect it to gear that has Type B, such as Artu..."
The Donner DMK25 Pro MIDI Keyboard Controller is designed for musicians seeking versatility and precision. Featuring 25 mini keys, 8 responsive drum pads, and a user-friendly OLED display, it allows for intuitive music creation. The inclusion of a touch bar and intelligent dynamic scale mode enhances real-time control, making it ideal for both studio and live performances. With its robust features and competitive price, the DMK25 Pro is a valuable tool for elevating your music production.
"This thing is so cool. We are amateurs, but the whole family likes messing with this. Not to mention, you get valuable software included for free! Itβs smaller and very light, but it seems to be good quality."
Worth serious consideration, the Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus USB MIDI Keyboa... offers solid performance at its price point. Customers particularly praise that it work perfectly. Currently 12% off at $148.72, it represents excellent value.
"This is a fantastic controller for MIDI or CV capable synthesizers. The keybed has a light touch and is velocity sensitive. I find the MPC pads to be rather stiff, however. The pitch and mod wheels work perfectly. I've tested it with my Roland AIRA chord synth and I've also hooked it up to my PC and..."
Amazon's Choice
The Akai Professional MPK Mini IV is a compact USB-C MIDI keyboard controller, ideal for music producers and performers. Featuring 25 velocity-sensitive keys and 8 RGB MPC drum pads, it offers enhanced playability and real-time control. Included production software further expands your creative possibilities, making it a valuable tool for both studio and live settings. With a solid 4.5-star rating, this controller is designed to elevate your music-making experience.
"This is a massive upgrade from previous generations, the keys feel nice and the midi out on the back is great. It has great functionality on the arp options and the scenes setup is easy - the only issue that I do have to say is that it definitely needs a manual read when you get it as some of the bu..."
The GarveeLife 37-Key MIDI Keyboard is designed for musicians seeking a compact and versatile controller. Featuring 37 velocity-sensitive keys, 8 responsive drum pads, and seamless DAW integration via USB, it enhances your music production experience. The OLED display provides clear visual feedback, making it easy to navigate settings and parameters. This keyboard is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced producers looking for an affordable yet functional tool to elevate their creative workflow.
"The product description says "standard" keys. Standard for a tiny person. The keys were stiff and difficult to play. The product photos are deceiving. The keyboard looks way bigger than it really is. I received it, and the box was all beat up, ripped and taped shut. Skip it."
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a compact 25-key USB MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production and beat making. It features 8 backlit drum pads and 8 assignable knobs for enhanced control over your sounds and effects. With its velocity-sensitive keys and portable design, this controller is ideal for musicians and producers looking for versatility and ease of use in their creative process.
"This Akai MPK Mini MK3 completely exceeded my expectations. The keys have a very comfortable sensitivity, and the pads respond quickly with no delayβgreat for creating beats on the spot. Setup was extremely easy; it was literally plug-and-play with my computer and music software. The size is perfect..."
Amazon's Choice
The Akai Professional MPK Mini IV USB rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include gen music production and beat maker essential and time control and navigation. Customers consistently report high satisfaction with this purchase.
"This is a massive upgrade from previous generations, the keys feel nice and the midi out on the back is great. It has great functionality on the arp options and the scenes setup is easy - the only issue that I do have to say is that it definitely needs a manual read when you get it as some of the bu..."
Amazon's Choice
The Akai Professional LPD8 USB MIDI Controller is a compact and versatile tool designed for musicians and producers. It features 8 RGB-backlit drum pads for dynamic performance and 8 assignable knobs for precise control over your software. With its portable design and user-friendly interface, the LPD8 is ideal for both studio work and live performances, offering exceptional value for those seeking an efficient and reliable MIDI solution.
"I'll start off by saying that I'm a performing musician (woodwind and brass instruments) as well as a composer and arranger who works with music notation software. I bought this hoping it would help me in writing percussion parts. I have returned it.Having said that, however, I am very impressed w..."
Amazon's Choice
The Akai Professional APC Mini MK2 is a USB MIDI pad controller specifically designed for seamless integration with Ableton Live Lite. Featuring 64 RGB pads, it provides excellent visual feedback for clip launching and enhances your workflow in both live performances and studio settings. With its compact design and versatile drum and note modes, the APC Mini MK2 is an invaluable tool for musicians looking to elevate their creative process.
"Loving the APC64 so far. It feels solid, the RGB pads are super responsive, and it just works right out of the box with Ableton. The built-in step sequencer is a game changer for live sets and jamming. Touch strips took a little getting used to, but now Iβm hooked. Also love that I can hook it up to..."
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 25 rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Customers particularly praise that it great for creating beats on the spot. With 2,000+ bought last month, it's clearly a popular choice.
"This Akai MPK Mini MK3 completely exceeded my expectations. The keys have a very comfortable sensitivity, and the pads respond quickly with no delayβgreat for creating beats on the spot. Setup was extremely easy; it was literally plug-and-play with my computer and music software. The size is perfect..."
Amazon's Choice
The Akai Professional LPK25 USB MIDI Keyboard Contr... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include play every note with ease and the usb studio midi controller is perfect for your songwriting, beat. Key specs include 8 program. Customers particularly praise that it easy to market. Currently 12% off at $51.92, it represents excellent value.
"I don't impress easily, but when I do, I use Amazon reviews. :) I bought this keyboard as a way to save space and maximize my ability to use FL Studio for music production. What I got was something even more amazing.Usually companies will bundle hardware with some gimmicky software just to make it e..."
Amazon's Choice
The Midiplus AKM320 MIDI Keyboard Controller rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include note velocity sensitive mid and switch interface (sustain pedal does not include). Customers particularly praise that it easy to understand. Currently 10% off at $38.00, it represents excellent value.
"The first thing you are sure to notice about this keyboard is the price. Let's compare this to its closest relative, M-Audio Keystation Mini 32. The ADM320 is almost one third the price! So, what is the catch? What is wrong with this? Nothing! This has heavy duty pitch and mod wheels, not just butto..."
The Vangoa Wireless MIDI Controller Mixer with 43 B... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. A key highlight is glide through your tracks like a pro with the 8 customized diamond. Customers particularly praise that it works great so far πππ.
"Highly customizable but youβll need the desktop app (Windows or Mac).NOTE 2 items:The device will not connect wirelessly unless youβre using USB 5. Iβm hardwired so Iβm not affected by that limitation.And, I was prompted with an expired certificate warning when I went to the site to download the app..."
Amazon's Choice
The Novation Launchkey 61 MK4 rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Key specs include 17" capacity. Customers particularly praise that it perfect for. The $329.99 investment is justified by premium build quality and features.
"I did a lot of measurements before I bought this keyboard controller. All my estimates were off, it's actually smaller than I thought! Perfect for me. I'm trying to make my "mobile command center" fit inside the backpack (pictured above it's the Lenovo hardshell something). As you can see, it fits b..."
The Mini 25 rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. A key highlight is plug-and-play - connects via usb 2.
"Keyboard is perfectFor what my son needed"
The Synido 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. A key highlight is key midi keyboard controller featuring a semi. Customers particularly praise that it easy to get the right velocity for dru.
"I bought this mainly to use as a controller for my home composing setup. I already own an older 25-key MIDI keyboard that has served me well, and this one definitely does not disappoint. The build quality is surprisingly good. The pads are firm but very sensitive, so it is easy to get the right velo..."
The Rockville Rockforce 384 Channel DMX Light Fog C... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Key specs include 10W of power and 8 program.
"Highly recommend this item. Been using over a year with no issues"
The Portable Mini USB 9 Slim rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Key specs include 27 program. At just $49.99, it's accessible for most budgets.
"Why did you pick this product vs others?:Bought this a few years ago and still use it today!"
The Hotone MIDI Foot Controller Pedal Bluetooth Amp... rounds out our list as a reliable option in this category. Standout features include sending/transferring midi messages to separated/combined midi output; send max and digit led for midi message info and bluetooth connection status display. Customers particularly praise that it works great on the maestro dmx ai lightin.
"Works great on the Maestro DMX AI lighting controller."
The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is highly recommended for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and versatile features. Priced at $139.99 and boasting a 4.6-star rating from 1789 reviews, it offers a great balance of functionality and ease of use, making it ideal for those new to music production.
MIDI controllers can range from as low as $35.99 for basic models like the Donner Mini MIDI Keyboard N-25 to over $300 for professional-grade options. Depending on your needs, a budget of $100 to $150 typically offers a good selection of quality controllers with ample features for most users.
When choosing a MIDI controller, consider features such as the number of keys (25 is common for portability), velocity-sensitive keys, and built-in pads for triggering samples. For example, the Akai Professional MPK Mini IV offers 25 velocity-sensitive keys and is priced at $99, making it a solid choice for both portability and functionality.
Akai Professional is known for its robust build quality and extensive feature set, making its products like the MPK Mini series popular among both beginners and professionals. In contrast, Donner offers budget-friendly options like the Donner DMK25 Pro at $98.99, which provides decent functionality for those looking for an affordable entry point.
To ensure your MIDI controller lasts, regularly clean the keys and pads with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and grime. Additionally, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and humidity, and store it in a protective case when not in use to prevent physical damage.
Investing in a more expensive MIDI controller can be worthwhile if you require advanced features like more keys, customizable controls, or better build quality. Higher-end models often provide improved responsiveness and durability, which can enhance your overall music production experience.
PickPundit
