ReviewFinder MIDI Controllers

Akai MPK Mini MK3

TLDR: 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.
Ranking:  
Consumer sentiment:
In comparison:
Akai MPK Mini MK3 rank #14 out of 96. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.4
Amazing

The product receives amazing reviews on average (consumer score 9.4). This is slightly above the median midi controller score of 8.7.

About consumer score

Price:
The lowest price we found for Akai MPK Mini MK3 is $96.99, available here. This is below the median midi controller price of $179.99.
  • Lowest price: $38
  • Median price: $179.99
  • Highest price: $2499
  • Akai MPK Mini MK3 price: $96.99
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.

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.

How many keys does the Akai MPK Mini MK3 come with?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 comes with 25 mini-sized keys, which span 2 octaves. These keys are velocity-sensitive, meaning they respond to how hard or soft you press them. According to a product review on musiclowdown.co.uk, the keybed of the MPK Mini MK3 has a slight edge over the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 in terms of feel and responsiveness.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the size of the keys on the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 features 25 mini-sized keys, which are velocity-sensitive according to a product review on musiclowdown.co.uk. These keys are not full-size, but they have a good actuation and are a vast improvement over the keys used in the previous MPK Mini MK2 model.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What type of keyboard action does the Akai MPK Mini MK3 come with?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 comes with 25 velocity-sensitive piano-style keys. This means that the keys are responsive to the force with which they are pressed, allowing for dynamic and expressive playing. The keys are designed to mimic the feel of a traditional piano keyboard, providing a familiar playing experience. According to a product review on audioover.com, the keyboard on the MPK Mini Mk3 is piano-style and velocity-sensitive.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many knobs does the Akai MPK Mini MK3 have?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller has a total of 8 360-degree knobs. These knobs can be assigned to control various parameters of your music studio plugins, allowing you to mix, tweak synth controls, and more. This provides you with complete command over your virtual instruments and effects. According to a product review on audioover.com, these knobs are programmable and can be customized to suit your needs.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many faders are included on the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 does not include any faders. It has 8 360-degree knobs that can be assigned to control various parameters in your music production software. These knobs are designed for mixing, tweaking synth controls, and more.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

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.

What types of connectivity options are available on the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 offers limited connectivity options. It features a USB type B connection for connecting to your computer or other MIDI devices. Additionally, it has a 1/4-inch sustain pedal input, allowing you to connect a sustain pedal for extended control over your performance. These connectivity options are on par with most competitors in its class, as mentioned in a product review on higherhz.com.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many USB ports are available on the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 has a single USB port for connectivity.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

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.

What are the dimensions (length, width, height) of the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The dimensions of the Akai MPK Mini MK3 are approximately 12.8 inches in length, 7.13 inches in width, and 1.79 inches in height. Please note that these measurements are approximate and may vary slightly.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the weight of the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The weight of the Akai MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller is approximately 0.64 kg (1.41 lbs). This information is based on the product specifications provided by Akai.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Akai MPK Mini MK3 come with a carrying case or bag for easy transportation?

No, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 does not come with a carrying case or bag for easy transportation. It is a compact and lightweight MIDI controller designed for portability, but you would need to purchase a separate carrying case or bag to transport it safely.
Based on 7 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Akai MPK Mini MK3 have a compact and lightweight design that makes it suitable for on-the-go use?

Yes, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it highly suitable for on-the-go use. It is a portable MIDI keyboard controller that is specifically designed for musicians who need a small and portable rig for live performances or music creation on the go. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry in a backpack or laptop bag, allowing you to create music wherever you are. According to the product reviews on audioover.com and Gearank, the MPK Mini MK3 is praised for its portability and suitability for on-the-go use.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

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.

What materials are used in the construction of the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

The specific materials used in the construction of the Akai MPK Mini MK3 are not mentioned in the available product reviews. However, based on the information provided, we can infer that the body of the MIDI controller is likely made of durable plastic or a combination of plastic and metal components. The pads on the MPK Mini MK3 are described as being upgraded to be stiffer and firmer compared to the previous model, which suggests that they may have a more robust construction. Overall, while we don't have specific details on the materials used, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is designed to be a compact and portable MIDI controller suitable for home studios and on-the-go music production.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What do the experts say about the build quality of the Akai MPK Mini MK3?

According to the experts, the build quality of the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is solid and durable. The controller is well-constructed, which is important for a portable device. It is designed to withstand the rigors of travel and live performances. This makes it a reliable option for musicians who need a MIDI controller that can handle frequent use and transport.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

ReviewFinder database has 4 expert reviews of Akai MPK Mini MK3.

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

Best Alternatives

3 best midi controllers in the same price range as Akai MPK Mini MK3

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Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 Arturia MiniLab MkII Akai MPK Mini Mk3
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Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 rank #1 out of 113. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.8
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9.7
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Akai MPK Mini Mk3 rank #17 out of 113. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.6
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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 Arturia MiniLab MkII is a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller with 25 mini-sized keys, 16 assignable knobs, and USB connectivity, making it a versatile option for musicians and producers on-the-go.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
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MIDI Controllers above are offered because they are in the same price range as Akai MPK Mini MK3. To browse more budget and premium midi controllers go to our midi controller ranking .

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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E-Home Recording Studio
Digital Piano Judge
Prime Sound
Consordini
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
1
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-
-
1
1
2
- $349
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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3
-
-
-
1
-
-
3
- $109
Arturia MiniLab MkII
The Arturia MiniLab MkII is a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller with 25 mini-sized keys, 16 assignable knobs, and USB connectivity, making it a versatile option for musicians and producers on-the-go.
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1
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4
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4
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Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note
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8
5
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2
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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 April.

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Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 Akai Pro MPK249 Arturia MiniLab MkII Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note
Reviews
In comparison:
Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 rank #1 out of 113. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.8
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Reviews
In comparison:
Akai Pro MPK249 rank #2 out of 113. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.1
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Arturia MiniLab MkII rank #3 out of 113. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.7
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Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note rank #4 out of 113. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.0
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Price
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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 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 Arturia MiniLab MkII is a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller with 25 mini-sized keys, 16 assignable knobs, and USB connectivity, making it a versatile option for musicians and producers on-the-go.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.