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Akai MPK Mini MK3

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Features
Connectivity
Size and Portability
Build Quality
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4 Verified Hands-On Reviews

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Expert reviews [4]

92
Total expert reviews: 4
  • with a score: 2
  • without a score: 2
Highest score by higherhz.com
94
Average score based on 4 reviews
92
Lowest score by makebeats101.com
90

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
94
Akai MPK Mini Mk3 review
The MPK Mini Mk3 is a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller that offers powerful performance and creative features. It has MPC-style pads, endless rotary knobs, note repeat/arpeggiator, and a great software bundle, making it a versatile and user-friendly option for making music.
+ pros
  • MPC-style pads: The author praises the responsive and high-quality pads on the MPK Mini Mk3.
  • Endless rotary knobs: The eight control knobs are described as premium-feeling and robust.
  • Note repeat/arpeggiator: The note repeat and arpeggiator features are highlighted as useful for quick and easy music creation.
  • Great software bundle: The MPK Mini Mk3 comes with a comprehensive software bundle, including a free DAW and virtual instruments.
  • OLED display: The handy OLED display is commended for its quality and usefulness.
  • Good build quality: The MPK Mini Mk3 is said to have a well-made and sturdy construction.
  • Improved keyboard: The Gen 2 keybed is praised for its enhanced dynamic expression and better feel compared to previous models.
- cons
  • Some users would prefer pitch/mod wheels: The absence of pitch and modulation wheels may be a drawback for certain users.
90
Akai MPK Mini MK3 Review — An Excellent Successor To The Best-Selling Mini MIDI Keyboard
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a versatile and feature-packed mini MIDI keyboard that is perfect for beginners and those who need a compact rig for live performances. It offers a great combination of keys, pads, and knobs, along with bonus software and sample packs, making it a valuable tool for music production.
+ pros
  • Portable and compact design, making it ideal for beginners and live performances.
  • Improved key travel and reduced noise compared to previous generation.
  • Unique joystick feature for pitch bend and mod control with better resistance.
  • Responsive and tactile pads for playing drums or melodies.
  • Endless encoders for more freedom in sound design and mixing.
  • Instant recognition and installation on Windows 10.
  • Works well with popular DAWs like FL Studio, Studio One, and Reason.
  • Pads can be automatically mapped to certain DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro X.
  • Bonus software and sample packs included for beginners and beatmaking.
  • Great value for its price.
- cons
  • Sharp/flat keys feel small and plastic-y.
  • Default velocity curves are poor, but can be adjusted.
  • Small OLED screen may be too tiny for some users.
  • Customization and use with other DAWs requires downloading the MPK Mini III editor software and creating an account on the Akai website.
  • Lack of transport controls and tight integration with certain software like Ableton Live or Maschine.
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Expert consensus

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a highly regarded MIDI controller that offers a range of features and functionality, including 25 mini-sized keys, programmable knobs, and a compact and lightweight design, making it a reliable and versatile option for musicians and producers.

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a highly regarded MIDI controller that offers a range of features and functionality for musicians and producers. It features 25 mini-sized keys that are velocity-sensitive and provide a good playing experience. The keybed is said to have a slight edge over its competitor, the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3, in terms of feel and responsiveness.

In terms of controls, the MPK Mini MK3 has 8 programmable knobs that can be assigned to control various parameters in music production software. While it does not include any faders, it offers a versatile and expressive playing experience, particularly for controlling virtual instruments and effects.

Connectivity options are limited but sufficient for most users' needs. It has a USB type B connection for easy integration with music production software and MIDI devices. It also has a 1/4-inch sustain pedal input, allowing users to add expressive elements to their performances.

The MPK Mini MK3 is compact and lightweight, making it highly suitable for on-the-go use. It is designed to be portable and easy to carry, weighing only 0. 64 kg (1. 41 lbs). While it does not come with a carrying case or bag, its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport in a backpack or laptop bag.

It is ideal for musicians who travel frequently or need a portable setup for impromptu music creation.

The build quality of the MPK Mini MK3 is highly regarded by experts. It is well-constructed and designed to withstand the rigors of travel and live performances. The upgraded pads are described as stiffer and firmer, suggesting a more robust construction.

Overall, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a reliable and versatile MIDI controller that is suitable for musicians and producers in various use cases. Whether you are a DJ, producer, or live performer, the MPK Mini MK3 offers a convenient and portable solution for your musical needs.

Features

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact and portable MIDI controller with 25 mini-sized keys, piano-style keybed, and programmable knobs, making it a versatile and expressive tool for musicians and producers.

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a MIDI controller that features 25 mini-sized keys, which are velocity-sensitive and provide a good actuation. The keybed of the MPK Mini MK3 is said to have a slight edge over its competitor, the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3, in terms of feel and responsiveness.

The keyboard action is piano-style and velocity-sensitive, mimicking the feel of a traditional piano keyboard.

In terms of controls, the MPK Mini MK3 has 8 360-degree knobs that can be assigned to control various parameters in music production software. These knobs are programmable and customizable to suit the user's needs. However, it does not include any faders.

Overall, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact and portable MIDI controller that is suitable for musicians and producers who want a versatile and expressive playing experience. It is particularly useful for controlling virtual instruments and effects, allowing for complete command over music studio plugins.

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Connectivity

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 offers standard connectivity options, including a USB connection and a sustain pedal input, making it a versatile tool for musicians and producers.

Based on the expert reviews, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 offers limited connectivity options. It has a USB type B connection for connecting to a computer or other MIDI devices, which is standard for most similar products. It also has a 1/4-inch sustain pedal input, allowing users to connect a sustain pedal for enhanced control during performances.

While the connectivity options may be limited, they are sufficient for most users' needs. The USB connection allows for easy integration with music production software and MIDI devices, making it a versatile tool for musicians and producers. The sustain pedal input is a valuable addition for those who want to add expressive elements to their performances.

Overall, the Akai MPK Mini MK3's connectivity options are on par with its competitors in the same price range. It provides the necessary connections for seamless integration into a music production setup, making it a suitable choice for beginners and intermediate users.

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Size and Portability

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact and lightweight MIDI controller that is perfect for musicians on the go, offering portability and convenience for live performances or impromptu music creation.

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact and lightweight MIDI controller that is highly suitable for on-the-go use. With dimensions of approximately 12. 8 inches in length, 7. 13 inches in width, and 1. 79 inches in height, it is designed to be portable and easy to carry.

Weighing only 0. 64 kg (1. 41 lbs), it is lightweight and can be easily transported in a backpack or laptop bag.

The MPK Mini MK3 is specifically designed for musicians who need a small and portable rig for live performances or music creation on the go. It does not come with a carrying case or bag, so users would need to purchase a separate one for safe transportation. However, its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to bring along wherever you go.

According to expert reviews on audioover. com and Gearank, the MPK Mini MK3 is praised for its portability and suitability for on-the-go use. It is ideal for musicians who travel frequently or need a portable setup for impromptu music creation. Whether you are a DJ, producer, or live performer, the MPK Mini MK3 offers a convenient and portable solution for your musical needs.

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Build Quality

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is praised for its solid and durable build quality, making it a reliable option for musicians on the go.

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is praised by experts for its solid and durable build quality. The controller is well-constructed, making it suitable for frequent use and transport. It is designed to withstand the rigors of travel and live performances, making it a reliable option for musicians on the go.

The upgraded pads are described as stiffer and firmer, suggesting a more robust construction. While specific materials used in the construction are not mentioned, the MPK Mini MK3 is designed to be a compact and portable MIDI controller, making it suitable for home studios and on-the-go music production.

Overall, the build quality of the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is highly regarded by experts, making it a reliable choice for musicians in various use cases.

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Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all MIDI controllers.

Rank Change Price MIDI Controller
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Gearank
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Prime Sound
The Guitar Junky
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1
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Akai MPK Mini MKII 25
The Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 MIDI Controller is a compact and versatile option for musicians and producers looking for a portable and affordable MIDI controller for creating electronic music and controlling parameters in music production software.
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7
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- $79
Akai MPK Mini MK3
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a highly regarded MIDI controller that offers a range of features and functionality, including 25 mini-sized keys, programmable knobs, and a compact and lightweight design, making it a reliable and versatile option for musicians and producers.
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5
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2
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4
3
- $360
Akai Pro MPK249
The Akai Pro MPK249 is a MIDI controller keyboard with 49 semi-weighted keys, a range of controls, and excellent build quality, making it a reliable choice for musicians and producers.
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1
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3
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4
- $119
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is a versatile and portable MIDI controller with realistic keyboard action, customizable controls, and USB connectivity, making it a great option for musicians of all levels.
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3
5
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Highest recommended midi controllers this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. midi controllers below are at the top of our ranking this December.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the midi controller for more details.
Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 Akai MPK Mini MK3 (this item) Akai Pro MPK249 M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3
Reviews
In comparison:
Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 rank #1 out of 126. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.8
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Akai MPK Mini MK3 rank #2 out of 126. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.5
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Akai Pro MPK249 rank #3 out of 126. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.1
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Reviews
In comparison:
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 rank #4 out of 126. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.1
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Price
Price
The Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 MIDI Controller is a compact and versatile option for musicians and producers looking for a portable and affordable MIDI controller for creating electronic music and controlling parameters in music production software. The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a highly regarded MIDI controller that offers a range of features and functionality, including 25 mini-sized keys, programmable knobs, and a compact and lightweight design, making it a reliable and versatile option for musicians and producers. The Akai Pro MPK249 is a MIDI controller keyboard with 49 semi-weighted keys, a range of controls, and excellent build quality, making it a reliable choice for musicians and producers. The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is a versatile and portable MIDI controller with realistic keyboard action, customizable controls, and USB connectivity, making it a great option for musicians of all levels.
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