January 2025
MIDI Controllers: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of MIDI controllers rankings posted by key online experts, as of January 2025.
Summary
On 15 Jan 2025, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 88 MIDI controller endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
66 MIDI controllers were endorsed in total, only 16 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 15 Jan 2025, Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed MIDI controller with 3 expert endorsements. 2 experts out of 3 recommended it as the '#1 MIDI controller' this month.
Brand breakdown
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Novation: 14 MIDI controllers
(#1 is Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note)
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Arturia: 10 MIDI controllers
(#1 is Arturia MiniLab MkII)
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Akai Professional: 9 MIDI controllers
(#1 is Akai MPK Mini MKII 25)
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Nektar: 6 MIDI controllers
(#1 is Nektar Impact LX88 Plus)
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M-Audio: 4 MIDI controllers
(#1 is M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3)
Price breakdown
At a glance - January Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | MIDI Controller |
higherhz.com
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guitarandmusicinstitute.com
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Gearank
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Keyboard Kraze
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Sweetwater
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Equipboard
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Music Radar
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Music Critic
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Prime Sound
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The Guitar Junky
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1
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- | Check price |
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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1
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1
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2
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- | $99 |
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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2
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3
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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
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- | $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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5
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- | $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
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5
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4
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6
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- | $99 |
Arturia MiniLab 3
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5
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1
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7
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- | Check price |
Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note
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8
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2
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5
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8
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- | $549 |
Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII
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3
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8
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7
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9
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- | $290 |
Nektar Impact LX88 Plus
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11
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6
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8
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10
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- | $230 |
Novation Launchkey 49 MK3
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3
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2
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11
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- | $100 |
Nektar Impact LX25 Plus
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3
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4
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17
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- | $500 |
Studiologic SL88 Studio
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2
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9
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18
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- | $160 |
Nektar Impact LX49 Plus
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8
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3
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19
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- | $726 |
NI Komplete Kontrol S49
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6
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6
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20
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- | Check price |
NI Komplete Kontrol S88 MkII
The NI Komplete Kontrol S88 MkII is a highly regarded MIDI controller that offers a realistic piano playing experience and precise control over parameters, making it a top choice for professional musicians and producers.
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8
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7
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21
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- | $999 |
Arturia Keylab 88 MKII
The Arturia Keylab 88 MKII is a highly praised MIDI controller keyboard that offers a realistic piano playing experience, versatile control options, and a wide range of connectivity, making it a valuable tool for musicians and producers in both studio and live performances.
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9
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10
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We ranked Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 #1 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 2 experts ranked Akai MPK Mini MKII 25 as #1.
Music Critic
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Can easily fit into backpacks and on a production desk.
8 rubber drum pads that are velocity sensitive.
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Prime Sound
Editor's Choice
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Portable
Plenty of bundled software
Excellent value for money
Impressive pad quality
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Comes with just eight pads
Knobs lack a satisfying click and feel lightweight
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The Guitar Junky
Editor's Choice
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Has the learning curve to progress as you go
Fun to use and beginners won't have trouble understanding
Budget-friendly and with the sleek look
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Software seems a bit intimidating at first
Some complaints of flimsy keys
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We ranked Akai MPK Mini MK3 #2 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Sweetwater
Great for mobile production and performance
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Blacked-out design looks sleek and stylish
Built-in arpeggiator that gives you synth features in a MIDI keyboard controller
Instant integration with your favorite DAW
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Equipboard
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Responsive keys with great action for dynamic music creation
Easily connects to major music production software on PC and Apple
Compact and portable, ideal for musicians on the go
Includes quality drum pads for percussion tracks
Comes with a variety of tones and instruments to explore
Features like arpeggiator and pitch knob enhance musical creativity
USB powered for convenience, no extra power cables needed
Integrates well with popular DAWs like Ableton Live
Velocity-sensitive, backlit pads of high quality
Bundled with useful software for immediate music production
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Mini keys may not suit all players, especially for two-handed playing
Comes with a USB-A cable, not USB-C, which might require adapters for newer devices
Associated software and plug-ins can be challenging for beginners
Some users report the need for firmer playing to trigger keys effectively
Only 2 octaves limit the range for playing more complex pieces
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Music Radar
The best MIDI keyboard for value
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Loads of control
Great bundled software
Excellent value for money
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Mini keys are certainly mini
Thumb sticks not for everyone
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Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend MIDI controllers.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of MIDI controllers, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for January 2025 ranking
higherhz.com
guitarandmusicinstitute.com
Gearank
Keyboard Kraze
Sweetwater
Equipboard
Music Radar
Music Critic
Prime Sound
The Guitar Junky
We ranked Akai Pro MPK249 #3 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Akai Pro MPK249 as #1.
Equipboard
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Versatile DAW integration, works well with major software like Ableton and Logic Pro X
Easy setup and plug-and-play connectivity with Mac and PC
Semi-weighted keys offer a quality playing experience
49 keys with aftertouch enhance expressiveness
16 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback for dynamic performance
Comprehensive control with 8 assignable knobs, faders, and switches
Sturdy build with a metal base, designed for durability
Includes valuable software like VIP3, Hybrid, and MPC Essentials
Enhanced workflow with onboard transport buttons and multiple control banks
Ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking an all-in-one MIDI controller solution
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Drum pads may require a firm touch, not as sensitive as some users prefer
Keybed feedback varies; some find the keys too stiff or the black keys annoying
Heavy and not easily portable for mobile producers
Software bundle and user manuals might feel outdated or insufficient for advanced users
Some users report difficulties with plugin downloads and installations in DAWs like Ableton
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Music Critic
Best Value
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Has an all-in-one controller with keyboard and trigger pads.
Comes with 8 control knobs, 8 faders, and 8 switches.
Semi-weighted action with 49 full-size keys that are pressure sensitive.
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We ranked Arturia MiniLab MkII #4 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Arturia MiniLab MkII as #1.
Gearank
Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers Under $200
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Great value for money
Lots of encoders and pads
Synth action keys feel great
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Knobs feel cheap
Touch strips feel like a compromise
Pads a bit small
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Prime Sound
Best Slim Keys Controller
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Impressive portability
16 rotary controllers
Seamlessly integrates with Analog Lab Litem Ableton Live Lite, and other software
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Some might not fancy the touch strip controllers
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We ranked M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 #5 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Sweetwater
USB plug-and-play for Mac or PC
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Great for beginners who want more than 25 keys
Lightweight, expressive, and one of the most affordable MIDI keyboard controllers on the market
Control set that is easy to understand
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Equipboard
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Quick and easy setup, compatible with major DAWs like Reaper and Pro Tools
Affordable, offers great value for its price
Compact design fits well on desks, optimizing workspace
Good key action and velocity sensitivity for expressive playing
Ideal for beginners due to simplicity and ease of use
Durable construction for longevity
Minimal learning curve, suitable for making beats and music production
Includes useful features like pitch bend, modulation wheels, and octave buttons
Comes with free software, enhancing value
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Limited onboard controls and features compared to more advanced models
Keys may feel softer than expected for some users
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Music Critic
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49 full-size, semi-weighted velocity sensitive keys with 1/4-inch sustain pedal input.
Comes equipped with octave range buttons, transport controls, pitch bend and modulation wheels.
USB connection.
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We ranked Arturia MiniLab 3 #6 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Arturia MiniLab 3 as #1.
guitarandmusicinstitute.com
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8 performance pads
Great set of bundled software
Comes bundled with 8 software instruments and controllers, Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab Lite included
Great mini keys with aftertouch
Comes with Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, and UVI Grand Piano software
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Additional software can be confusing for beginners
Not all software features available on other softwares
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Sweetwater
Best Synth-action MIDI Keyboard Controllers
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Great MIDI keyboard controller for beginners
Compact, portable, and sleek design
Comes with Arturia’s Analog Lab synth and keyboard sounds
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We ranked Novation Launchkey Mini 25-Note #7 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Music Critic
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Designed for Ableton Live.
Comes in equipped with 16 velocity sensitive multi-color pads.
8 knobs, control buttons, and dedicated navigation.
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Prime Sound
Budget Pick
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USB-Powered
Portable and compact design
Comes with Ableton Live Lite 9 software
25 synth-style mini keys
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Lacks a thumb joystick
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The Guitar Junky
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Many options and controls for more ways to create music
Small and compact
Easy to bring around
Solid build and looks like it's made to last
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Keys may not be the most responsive
Takes a lot of time to set up and learn from
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We ranked Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII #8 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
higherhz.com
Best for music production
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Excellent keyboard action with aftertouch.
Lots of assignable controls, including faders.
Extensive connectivity.
16 RGB pads.
World-class sounds from Analog Lab
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I miss the full wooden cheeks of the original version.
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Sweetwater
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Lightweight aluminum body sturdy enough to handle touring
Comes with a plethora of synth and keyboard sounds via Arturia’s Analog Lab bundle
Numerous pads, faders, and encoders that afford endless creative possibilities
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Equipboard
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High-quality aluminum case and wooden accents enhance durability
Excellent key action; semi-weighted keys are responsive
Versatile DAW integration, including customizable sliders and transport controls
Includes Analog Lab software with a broad sound library
Solid build suitable for live performances
Multiple pedal inputs for extended control options
Mackie Universal Control support for seamless DAW interaction
Attractive design with a low profile and authentic wooden side panels
Automatically maps to Arturia V collection for intuitive sound programming
Sturdy, metal construction offers long-lasting reliability
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Some units have touchy faders, causing erratic parameter adjustments
Mono aftertouch may limit detailed expression via pressure
Pitch and mod wheels positioned above keys, which may be inconvenient for some users
Lack of RGB lights on pads makes it difficult to see in dark settings
Limited software update support for standalone VST integration issues
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We ranked Nektar Impact LX88 Plus #9 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Sweetwater
Best Semi-weighted MIDI Keyboard Controllers
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88 keys that give you the feel of a real piano
Comes with Bitwig 8-Track DAW software
Performance pads, faders, and pots that offer plenty of hands-on control
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Music Radar
Our favourite controller for Logic Pro
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A full-size keyboard
Solid but portable
Great value
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Keys aren't hammer-action
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We ranked Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 #10 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Gearank
Best MIDI Keyboard Controller Under $500
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Ableton Live integration is very well done
The knobs, faders and pads are all well-built
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The keys feel a bit cheap
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Sweetwater
Streamlined for Ableton Live use
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Great option for intermediate or advanced keyboardists looking for a synth-action MIDI keyboard controller
Loads of controls and ability to tweak
Comes with software, including Ableton Live 10 Lite, Spitfire Audio LABS Expressive Strings, and many more
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We ranked Nektar Impact LX25 Plus #11 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Prime Sound
Best Value
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Eight velocity-sensitive drum pads are excellent for tapping drum beats
Works seamlessly with most DAWS
Excellent value for price
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Relatively bulky
No semi-weighted keys
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The Guitar Junky
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Lightweight and can be brought around easily
Can control and map DAW effortlessly
Cool design that lights up when played
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Keys create a dull thud sound when pressed
Not suitable for continued use as you progress
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We ranked Studiologic SL88 Studio #12 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
higherhz.com
Best keyboard action
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Outstanding Fatar keyboard action.
Triple-switch detection system.
Aftertouch.
Cheaper than expected
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Limited assignable controls.
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Sweetwater
Best Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controllers
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Ideal gigging controller
Onboard display that gives you total access to all of the keyboard’s features with ease
TP/100LR premium hammer action that delivers authentic feel of acoustic grand piano
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We ranked Nektar Impact LX49 Plus #13 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
higherhz.com
Best for beginners
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Value for money.
Versatile controls.
Auto-maps to popular DAWs
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Doesn’t feel premium
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The Guitar Junky
Runner-Up
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Excellent construction with the responsive keys for performances
Can be used for beginners and intermediate players
Both controller and software are easy to use and setup
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Comes at a more expensive price
The key response might be a bit too sensitive
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We ranked NI Komplete Kontrol S49 #14 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Equipboard
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Seamless Ableton and NI software integration
High-quality, rigid plastic build with top-notch keybed
Polyphonic aftertouch enhances expressiveness
Bright, crisp display for easy navigation
Improved sound control over previous models
Elegant design with robust metal dials and improved plastic keys
Excellent Fatar keybed offering superior tactile feedback
Comprehensive DAW integration, including with third-party VSTs
Includes valuable software plugins as extras
Supports NKS for easy management of NI and third-party plugins
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Maschine integration removed, disappointing some users
Larger size compared to previous models may be cumbersome
High price point may deter some potential buyers
Some users experienced laggy Komplete integration initially
Customer service for hardware issues reported as poor
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We ranked NI Komplete Kontrol S88 MkII #15 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Gearank
Best MIDI Keyboard Controller Over $1000
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Best for integration with NI Komplete Software
The Fater keybed strikes a good balance between piano-like hammer action and synth action feel
KOMPLETE SELECT is included free
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Those who play hammond style organs will find its piano action isn't the best for organ slides
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Music Radar
The best smart MIDI controller for your plugins and DAW
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Tight Komplete and DAW integration
Provides playing assistance
Spend less time with your mouse
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No sliders
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We ranked Arturia Keylab 88 MKII #16 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best MIDI controllers” rankings.
Sweetwater
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An array of programmable controls
Fatar hammer-action keys that give this controller a real piano feel
Comes with Arturia’s synths and keyboard sounds
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