Best MIDI Keyboards Reviewed

How MIDI Keyboard Controllers Work

A MIDI controller is an easy way of sequencing music, as well as essentially playing an instrument into your production software of choice. The way this works is by sending MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) data to either your computer or synthesizer, where the signal is interpreted and generates a sound.

MIDI keyboard controllers must be connected to a computer/tablet and used with a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), also known as the aforementioned production software.

A MIDI keyboard isn’t just used in the traditional way your average keyboard is, however. Different parts of the controller can be mapped/assigned to control different instruments. For example, the lower portion of the keyboard could control drums, while the higher end could control synths.

You can also map it to change the tone of an instrument, trigger sample loops, modulate pitch, program drum beats, and much more. As you can see, this allows you much more versatility and creative options than your regular keyboard could.

If you’re using it for composition, you can quickly and efficiently edit your work, as opposed to the “old-school” way of doing things: multitrack recording, which can get confusing and messy.

MIDI Keyboard Comparison Table

Choosing a High-Quality MIDI Keyboard

Intended Usage

What are you planning on using your MIDI keyboard for? If you're using it for performance but aren't planning on using a traditional keyboard/piano application, then you'll probably want a smaller keyboard that's more portable and has a smaller footprint. If you're using it for production, you'll want as much variety and features as possible to make editing and programing instruments easier.

Midi Keyboard Type/Action

Any good MIDI keyboard is going to be the one that responds best to you and offers you the most natural feel. This is important whether you’re talking about performance or production. Let’s take a look at each of the 3 basic keyboard action types so you can narrow down your options.

Weighted Hammer Action

Many models are 88-key types which work to replicate the action of a conventional keyboard. As a controller is going to lack strings and hammers, manufacturers use an array of different ways to apply weights and springs to best replicate this action. Others may even add a hammer action to give you that real piano feel. If you already play the piano, then this may be the right choice for you.

Semi-Weighted Action

This draws similarities to the last one but has slightly less key resistance and spring to it. If you don’t feel you require a realistic piano response but also aren’t a fan of spring-loaded synth actions, then this is a nice meet-in-the-middle.

Synth Action

These feel similar to an electronic organ with spring-loaded, light keys that can be pressed and returned to their original positions quickly. This is helpful when you're playing quickly, like with fast arpeggios. These are usually the preferred type with people who aren't pianists.

Midi Keyboard Size/Key Count

MIDI Keyboards typically come in either 25, 49, 61, or 88-key options. While the bigger options definitely look the coolest, that doesn't always mean it's going to be the best option for you. Bigger keys mean you can play more octaves without having to press the "Octave" button. This is particularly useful if you're performing more complex music compositions or if you're a pianist/keyboardist who is already used to this size.

Also, it's not a rule, but larger models sometimes have more functions or features, occasionally including screens.

If you’re looking to save space or need a more portable option, then a smaller one is ideal. If you’re just starting out with production, then this is often the way to go, depending on your background and preferences.

Touch Sensitivity

Also known as "aftertouch," this is an often-overlooked feature and adds expressiveness and variety to how you play. It comes in two different types: monophonic or "channel aftertouch" and polyphonic.

Monophonic

This consists of a "rail," which can be pressured by any key and sends the average MIDI value for all held keys.

Polyphonic

These let you change the parameter on each note independently, depending on the pressure on the key after the note is played. These are quite expensive to create, generating more MIDI information and also demanding more dexterity for you to reap the full benefits. This makes it more of a rarity in the MIDI keyboard world.

DAW Compatibility

Before anything else, you should already know which software/DAW/computer operating system you're using. With current technology, it's pretty rare that a USB MIDI keyboard is only compatible with certain OS or software. However, it's always better to be safe than sorry. With that being said, make sure that the model you have your eye on works with your DAW and computer operating system.

As most are class-compliant, all you'll have to do is plug it in, and it works. Some even automatically prompt you to download the correct drivers or at the most, will provide you with the drivers on a CD or make you visit the manufacturer's site to do so.

Sound Capability

Some keyboards give you the ability to generate more than one sound at once, which is called "polyphony." This is not to be confused with "multitimbrality," which is the ability to play different sounds at once on a keyboard (i.e., drums, strings, piano). Both capabilities will allow you more freedom in expression and composition.

Extra Features

As I briefly mentioned above, MIDI keyboards are much more than just keys. Knobs and sliders are quite common additions and give you more flexibility with how you program and edit. They can be mapped to trigger loops, alter sounds, be used as filters, and so on. Performance pads are also common and can e used to play drums, trigger loops, and more.

Ease of Use

Again, it's crucial to consider how and where you're going to use your controller. If you're going to be doing a live set, then you'll probably need to value size and portability over many other features. You don't want to be lugging around a full-size keyboard, especially if the surface you're playing on is somewhat limited in space.

If you are using it for production, consider the space you have on your desk or table at home. Also, take into consideration the possibility that you may want to add more instruments or gear to your production setup and will need extra space when that time comes.

Price & Warranty

How much money are you planning on spending on one of the best MIDI keyboards? Whatever your budget may be, I'm confident there's a model on our guide that will suit it. If you're a beginner, then you may want to start out with a less expensive controller.

However, if you're at an intermediate level and looking to take your skills to the next level or increase your creative abilities, spending a bit more will pay off. When you move up in budget, you can expect to see more features, ease of use, better key feel, and more.

1. Akai Professional MPK261

2. Arturia KeyLab Essential 49

Arturia is quite possibly the most underrated manufacturer when it comes to keyboards and controllers. They’re known for being budget-friendly, but offer an incredible amount of value, which the Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 displays perfectly. If you’re just starting out and need something beginner-friendly with the features to allow you to improve upon your knowledge and workflow, then this is it.

The best 49 MIDI keyboard is made to work with multiple DAWs, coming with both MCU and HUI compatibility and a whopping 5,000 sounds coming in the included version of Analog Lab v2. In addition, you'll receive a ton of different presets, allowing you to use just about any sound you can think of.

The Arturia MIDI software lets you load and saves templates, assign MIDI info to controllers, and even different colors! This makes performance and editing much more efficient and intuitive.

The model comes with a lot of functions you wouldn't usually find in your standard controller, such as touch-sensitive velocity keys, which offer amazing feedback and feel depending on the amount of pressure you apply on the keys. Right next to the keys on the left-hand side, you'll find a modulation and pitch bend wheel to allow for greater versatility. 

On the top right, there are 9 faders and encoders which are perfect to use with any loaded VST, really giving you the ability to take your productions to a new level. If you’re not a pianist, you will definitely be able to take advantage of their "Chord Play" function, which lets you record and save chords to be triggered at a later time just by pressing a single key.

This means that you can create complete arrangements with a couple of keys, making productions faster and performances easier. 

Compatible with all major DAWs and MCU/HUI control compatible, you'll have no issue using it with whichever setup you currently have. The sleek, streamlined model also comes with MIDI out, USB, and Sustain Pedal connectivity to make setup of this MIDI piano keyboard a breeze.

3. Roland 61-Key A-800PRO-R

Roland is easily one of the most popular, well-known brands in the music world due to their revolutionary products that have literally changed electronic music and beyond. With that being said, it’s no wonder why their 61-key MIDI Keyboard Controller is consistently ranked as one of the best performance models.

If you're taking a keyboard with you to perform live, you need to have something that can offer you the ease of transportation but also have enough keys that you don't have to keep hitting the Octave change button while playing compositions. Soft-touch synth-action keys are inspiring to play, especially if you're not already a piano player.

4. Nektar IMPACT LX88+

If you've been checking out MIDI keyboards online but haven't found one that responds well enough, then check out the Nektar IMPACT LX88+. 

5. M-Audio Hammer 88

Are you a piano player who's having a hard time finding one of the best high-end MIDI keyboards that can allow you the same flexibility that a regular piano can? Then don't go anywhere because the M-Audio Hammer 88 may be just the perfect selection for you! Bringing fully weighted, piano-like action with an accompaniment from all kinds of controls, ports, and virtual instruments, you'll wonder why you didn't put it in your studio earlier! 

6. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88

Native Instruments is hands-down one of the most popular and well-respected names in the production world, rising to recognition with their products that recreate classic synths and keyboards for incredible sounds. Their Komplete Kontrol S88 is one of their most popular products as well, which speaks just a bit to what it’s capable of doing.

7. Novation Launchkey 61

While the Novation Launchkey 61 is made for producing and performing in Ableton Live, you can just as well use another DAW and take advantage of the ergonomic layout. 

The best MIDI synth keyboard works wonders in the studio but is also perfect to use on the road. Simply plug it into your laptop via a USB cord – no drivers or power cables needed since it’s bus-powered and class-compliant!

As far as looks go, it’s neither here nor there. The design is relatively tame, coming with a black, sturdy chassis and various groups of features. The 61 velocity-sensitive keys are synth-action types perfect if you’re not comfortable with heavier ones or will be mostly using it in the studio. They’re relatively lightweight, but not so much that they feel cheap or twangy.

Right above them are bright RGB touchpads, which are also velocity-sensitive and perfect for live sets. In all honesty, they're not that attractive, but they get the job done. Another group features 9 faders, 8 knobs, and your pitch and modulation wheels, which can all be programmed and mapped to give you more versatility.

If you're just starting out with pads and keyboards, then you can take full advantage of the Melodics lessons that come in the box, letting you learn at a much faster pace while ensuring you don't learn bad habits.

8. Alesis V49 Key USB

Are you on the hunt for the best MIDI keyboard for EDM, techno, house or electronic music production/ performance but are on a tight budget? Then take a serious look at the Alesis V49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller. Alesis is not quite as big of a name as, say, Native Instruments, but they're still well-reputed for producing quality, durability, and user-friendliness.

At first glance, you’ll be impressed by the visual aesthetics of the model, featuring a matte black chassis and cool blue backlit pads, wheels, buttons, and knobs. The full-sized keys are velocity-sensitive and very responsive for synth-action keys – quite surprising for such a reasonable price. However, it's about much more than looks. The build quality is exceptionally sturdy, with keys moving smoothly without any wiggle.

While you’re not going to find as many pads and knobs as you would on most others on this guide, it’s still a great option for the producer. That’s not to say you can’t use it for live performances, but it does seem to cater more towards studio applications. If you do decide to take it to gigs, then you’ll love how narrow and lightweight it is, weighing just under 10 pounds!

I did feel it lacked a bit in terms of performance pads and parameter controls. However, if you're a beginner or are an intermediate-level producer looking to save a few bucks, then the V49 is a wonderful option. The best budget MIDI keyboard comes with Pro Tools I First Alesis Edition, Ableton Live Lite 9, Eleven Lite, Mini Grand, and more so you have everything you need to elevate your skills.

MIDI Keyboards vs Synthesizers

This is one of the most frequent questions among newer producers, and though they do have similarities, they operate in very different ways.

MIDI Keyboards

These are used to generate a MIDI event, like a tap pad. The controller can't create its own sounds but instead comes with programmable additions like faders, knobs, and pads to generate them.

These will come with USB connections used to plug straight into your computer and have a considerable amount of flexibility as you can use them with all mainstream DAWs, VSTs, and other software programs. These work well for all experience levels and are perfect for live performances and production due to how versatile they are.

Synths

Synthesizers do have the ability to produce their own sounds or "timbres." However, to make these sounds, they require bulkier components, which will then make the synth itself heavier and bigger than MIDI controllers.

They do not have the same amount of flexibility as you can only play the pre-programmed sounds they come with while controllers have virtually endless possibilities. These are more well-suited for your studio as they're not portable and don't have as many options as you may need during a live performance.

Essential MIDI Keyboard Accessories

How to Use a Midi Keyboard

Using a MIDI keyboard shouldn't be that difficult if you follow the next steps. First, let's take a look at how to connect it. Of course, if you have any doubts, recommend you take a look at your DAW's user manual about MIDI routing.

Most will connect to your computer through a USB cable, and some can offer bus power, which means you don't require an external power supply. As many are class-compliant, you also won't need third-party drivers for it to work.

Connecting MIDI Keyboards with USB

Connecting MIDI Keyboards with MIDI Cables

Recording MIDI

To record what you’re actually playing on your MIDI keyboard, simply press the “Record” button while an instrument channel is active. This should automatically record it to a clip, depending on your DAW.

Common Issues, Fixes & Care Tips

Delay

Delay is one, if not the most common issue in regards to what MIDI keyboards. There is also more than one cause for it.

MIDI Keyboard Not Working

Dead Keys

If you notice that certain keys on your controller aren't registering, then there are solutions. It's best at this point to go ahead and open up your keyboard. Keep in mind that this may void your warranty, so you may be better off sending it to the manufacturer if you're still under said warranty.

If not, open it up and locate the circuit board which interacts with the keys. Remove it and find the button contacts which interact with each key. Remove the rubber buttons and remove any dirt, hair, and other debris that may interfere with the signal. Use 90% isopropyl alcohol and cotton swabs. This should have the key(s) working again.

Understanding Terminologies

People Also Ask (FAQs)

What are the best MIDI keyboard brands on the market?

Native Instruments is definitely the most well-known and well-respected, though more expensive than most. Excellent alternatives are Novation, Alesis, and Arturia, which are slightly more budget-friendly but still deliver quality. 

Can MIDI keyboards play without a computer?

Yes, they can! MIDI keyboards can be used on their own.

Can I learn piano on a MIDI keyboard?

Absolutely! While it may be difficult with smaller ones, take a look at the Native Instruments models, which come with built-in features to help you learn music theory, chords, and more!

Do all keyboards have MIDI?

No – only MIDI keyboards specifically will be able to use MIDI.

What is the best MIDI keyboard software?

While there are countless plugins, the best one to use would be a DAW. The crowd favorite is Ableton, due to how relatively intuitive and simple it is to use, as well as being compatible with just about every controller out there.

Where is the best place online to buy a MIDI keyboard?

Amazon, hands-down. It offers you the best prices, and lets you see real ratings from real users, so you know you're receiving a quality product that does what it says. On top of that, shipping is speedy, and your keyboard will be safe. 

Conclusion

Now that you've had the chance to read all about the best MIDI keyboard controllers on the market today, which one will you be using in your studio or at your performances?

While each of the items mentioned above are top models, if you're still undecided, allow me to reiterate how wonderful the Akai Professional MPK261 is. It's budget-friendly, has a sturdy build, great key feel, and feedback, is compatible with every main DAW out there and offers an array of useful editing and production features. 

However, what's most important is that you select the model that is ideal for your skill level and needs. I hope this guide has helped you to do just that. Thanks for tuning in and happy playing!