Best midi keyboards

The midi keyboard is not the last among musical devices, it makes it easy to create electronic music for both beginners and professional musicians. When used correctly, the keyboard can easily replace the most expensive synthesizer, digital piano, electric guitar and even a drum kit. In the right hands, this device can work wonders. However, when choosing it, many nuances should be taken into account. The expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ team tested several popular brands, made conclusions and selected the best midi keyboards that are presented in this review.

Which firm's midi keyboard is better to choose

You don't need to go far in search of a good keyboard attachment, there is a large selection of devices on sale, both Russian and European manufacturers. There are dozens of popular brands that are trusted by users in this market. Experts have selected the best and most famous representatives to the top:

• Nektar Is an American company, was founded in 2009. It is engaged in the development and production of musical equipment, the priority direction is the production of controllers and midi keyboards of various classes. The main goal of the company is to provide users with simple equipment with convenient operation.
• Akai - a legendary Japanese brand, began to develop the Russian market at the beginning of 1980. Manufactures a huge range of consumer electronics and musical equipment. The firm operates exclusively on the audio and recording technology market. Today Akai has several production branches in Russia, the brand's products belong to the middle price segment.
• Axelvox Is a young Chinese company, a subsidiary of the American company Event. The main activity: production of studio sound and acoustic equipment for professionals: midi-keyboards, headphones, active near-field monitors. Good quality, low price allows you to purchase brand appliances for home use.
• Roland - Japanese manufacturer, produces musical equipment, software. The company's facilities are located in China, Japan, USA, Italy, Taiwan. Since 1970, Roland has become one of the world leaders in the development and production of electronic musical equipment, controllers, accessories, software for the PC, iPad and iPhone.
• M—Audio Is a commercial division of the American group of companies InMusic. It is engaged in the development and release of a wide range of products: digital audio and midi-interfaces, keyboards, controllers, synthesizers, speakers, synchronizers, studio monitors, microphones and systems for DJs. Along with this, the company develops accessories, becoming the developer of the popular midi-application for Apple and Commodore PCs.
• Arturia – famous company from France, founded in 1999. The main profile is the development / release of musical equipment and software for amateurs and professional musicians. The goods are shipped to 25 countries, generating over 90% of the export profit. Innovation in design has pushed technology such as drum machines, Midi keyboards and controllers, and sound cards forward.
• Native Instruments Is a German company founded in 1996. Leading manufacturer of integrated software and hardware solutions for audio reproduction. Innovative technical solutions are applied to the DJing and music professions. The company offers a wide range of unrivaled hardware, software and digital services.

Rating of midi keyboards

When compiling a review, experts at expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ first of all took into account the reviews of real users, both amateurs and professional musicians. The final stage of selection was the opinion of experts, after a thorough study of the merits and demerits of each nominee presented. The study of the following characteristics became important parameters for accepting an instrument into the rating:

• Build quality;
• Keyboard type;
• Mechanics and number of keys;
• Number of controllers;
• Connection interfaces;
• The presence of pedals;
• Functional;
• Additional buttons
• Drivers;
• Price.

A detailed study of the parameters, comparison of the pros and cons of each applicant made it possible to compile a complete informative description for each presented model. An independent examination has singled out the best nominees in the TOP-7 from a huge number of instruments presented in stores in 2024.

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Best inexpensive midi keyboards

The category of inexpensive midi instruments includes models that, although they have reduced functionality, will be a good choice for initial music training. These are mostly portable devices, without various "bells and whistles" and additional elements. They work with musical text, record, process the melody, and are equipped with a standard set of keys. This group includes the three best midi keyboards in the low-cost series, which were selected from among a dozen contenders.

Nektar SE49

The simplest compact model in the top midi keyboards preferred by beginner music lovers. Ideal without a set of additional functions, with intuitive settings. Full-size keyboard with 49 unweighted keys. Velocity sensitivity and 7 customizable response modes to suit different play styles. Keyboard response setting function: 4 speed curves, 3 fixed. The control panel is located on the left side, consists of 4 buttons (octave up / down) and one Midi-fader (30 mm).

The transpose button is one of the quick access options for controlling the assigned parameters: control of playback, stop and recording. Multi-colored LED indicators show the exact status and settings of the keyboard. Connectors: USB Type B port, TRS pedal input. Case size 805x197x69 mm, weight - 2.2 kg.

Advantages

• Compatible with any DAW or MIDI software based on OC X, Windows, iOS;
• Full-size keys;
• Work with any software;
• Sensitivity to velocity of pressing;
• Programmable buttons;
• Convenient size Pitch Bend and Modulation.

disadvantages

• The pedals must be purchased separately.

From user reviews, this is a handy model that has all the necessary parameters to start creating your own music using a computer. The best combination of price and quality.

Akai Mpk Mini MKII

This tool has many positive user reviews. First of all, they note the compact size of 318x181x45 mm, light weight - 750 g. The new generation MIDI device is equipped with a Bank A / B button, which was brought to the right side, where you can also find the Prog Change and CC buttons. Small-sized synthesizer-type keys in the amount of 25 pieces, unweighted type. Keyboard with pressure sensitivity, octave up / down keys. The controller features a new 4-way joystick that greatly enhances control options.

Key Features: 8 MPC pads with backlight and note repeat, 8 Q-Link assignable encoders for controlling DAW parameters, 4 programmable memory buttons, Tap-Tempo. There is an input for pedals, connectors: USB Type B port, power supply via USB cable.

Advantages

• Brand assembly;
• Durable body;
• Ergonomic control panel;
• Easy to customize for "your tasks";
• Built-in arpeerator;
• "Pocket wagon";
• A light weight.

disadvantages

• No split keyboard;
• Flimsy plastic keys.

Beginning musicians are extremely positive about the compact MIDI synthesizer. Interesting design, super light weight - you want to buy it, you want to use it, you are not ashamed to show it to your friends.

Axelvox KEY49j

The compact audio midi keyboard is a good choice for the entry level. Ultra-thin, durable design, available in two colors, gray and blue. Synthesizer type of mechanics, the minimum number of controls. The quick access panel contains only transpose buttons, software Shift, fader, pitch bend / modulation mini-joystick. The LED illumination in the buttons shows their operating status, which allows you to quickly navigate the correct settings. The ultra-thin panel organically houses 49 full-size keys with good pressure sensitivity.

There are standard features: semi-weighted mechanics, 4 octaves with the option of shifting the pitch bend, transpose button. Connectors: USB and MIDI ports, 2 pedal connectors (minijack). Case size 727x210x58 mm, weight - 3.2 kg.

Advantages

• Full-size keys - 49 pcs;
• Simultaneous connection of 2 pedals;
• Simple control unit;
• Transpose button;
• Quick return of keys;
• No driver installation required.

disadvantages

• Conservative design;
• Minimal functionality.

Users note the simple interface of the keyboard apparatus, especially the fact that it does not require the installation of any additional audio drivers to work with a computer. Good compatibility with Cubase 8.5 and Ableton Live 9 applications.

Best professional midi keyboards

When choosing a midi device for professionals, you need to pay attention to the following factors, such as the number of keys, compatibility with Windows and Mac computers, the ability to install additional software, the number of pads. Note that the equipment of this group does not have to be expensive and difficult to understand. The availability of maximum functionality and controls play an important role here. The ranking of the best includes 4 popular models that are in the greatest demand among professional musicians.

Roland A-49

Professional keyboard instrument of high quality Japanese assembly. It has 49 full-size keys, an audible pitch bend and modulation slider, and keyboard touch sensitivity. The most user-friendly interface is designed for a wide range of uses. The unit can automatically assign suitable controllers to drive the maximum performance of the external Supernatural loudspeaker modules. For quick settings, the control unit is conveniently located: 2 programmable buttons, 2 rotary controls, an infrared D-Beam indicator. Deeper control settings are made by pressing the Function button.

The chip of the device is the V-Link option. It makes it easy to trigger compatible video equipment via MIDI. Interfaces: MIDI out, USB Type B 3.0, pedal in. Powered by USB cable. Case size 836x182x84 mm, weight - 2.5 kg.

Advantages

• 49 full-size keys
• The ability to transpose;
• D-Beam infrared indicator;
• V-Link function;
• Responsive keyboard without aftertouch
• Can be connected to iPad;
• Two colors: black and white.

disadvantages

• Doesn't work on Mac without driver.

Professional musicians note that thanks to the V-Link function, a midi keyboard turns into a home music studio. Provides the ability to launch stunning visuals that maximize the flow of the tracks being played.

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M-Audio Code 25

Not the most budgetary, perhaps not the most outstanding, but quite functional USB midi controller. A good choice for both amateurs and professionals. Central panel with multi-segment LCD display, synthesizer type mechanics. Two-octave keyboard player with a full-size keyboard, range - 25 keys, semi-weighted stiffness, there is a sensitivity with aftertouch. Good power to meet the needs of software applications and other midi devices. Large PADs, in the amount of 16 pieces, are conveniently located on the left side of the keyboard, adding, in fact, one more octave. They can literally do anything! They perform the function of full-fledged note keys, the function of the tonal shift and modulation wheels, control the filter frequencies, effect parameters.

Real treasures will be revealed to the user after purchase and registration on the manufacturer's resource. Access to proprietary software opens: Hybrid 3 from Air Music Tech, Lomm by Air Music Tech, DB-33, Mini Grand, Velvet, Code 25 Preset Editor, VIP software, Touch Loops. And also a very limited, but certainly interesting DAW - Pro Tools | First by AVID. The tool supports Mac Control and HUI protocols.

Advantages

• Full-size keyboard
• Multi-segment LCD display;
• Support for Mac Control and HUI protocols;
• XY touchpad;
• 16 pads;
• 5 DAW control buttons;
• 5 faders.

disadvantages

• No key illumination;

M-Audio Code 25 is a midi keyboard, reviews of which can be found on every website. The most optimized functionality is suitable for using the instrument in a home studio.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 49

A professional midi keyboard can be purchased in two colors - white and black. Ergonomic design with full functionality and LCD display suitable for professional use. Full-size keyboard, 49-key range. Automatic tuning is provided in most regulators. Equipped with modern DAW and Analog Lab2 software, full lag-free compatibility. This keyboard device will delight those who do not like to be distracted by extraneous settings while creating music. What will really delight the pros is the Chord option, which gives you the ability to create chords with one touch of a key.

The filling of the control unit pleases, these are 8 dynamic pads, the surface of each of the rough soft-touch coating, which is very convenient. A comfortable distance between the SEDs was observed, it is impossible to miss, accidentally hook on another element. The mixing function in the virtual studio is provided by 9 faders, 9 knobs. On the block you can find a transpose button, octave shift knobs, pitch bend / modulation rubber wheels.

Advantages

• The set includes software;
• Multi-colored 8 performance pads;
• 9 faders (30mm)
• Transpose button;
• LCD display on two lines;
• Works from PC on Windows / Mac OS;
• Compatible with Android / iOS devices.

disadvantages

• Insufficient pressure sensitivity;
• Mod wheel too weak.

Users note that the midi-tool is completed in full, especially the licensed software included. Expensive design, "real" quality keyboard.

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49

Users like the tool for its good functionality, medium size, beautiful design. Comfortable two-line OLED display. 49 full-size Fatar keys, dynamic mechanics, semi-weighted stiffness type. The main settings buttons are installed on the control unit so that the musician can easily select the author's settings. This is a full-fledged functionality: preset selection, recording, arpeggiator mode, octave shift, transposition, controllers for pitch and tone modulation, 8 touch controls, 4-directional push encoder. The package includes software Maschine Essentials, Monark, Gentleman, Reaktor Prism, Scarbee Mark. A distinctive feature is Smart Play and Easy Mode.

The tool's functionality will allow you to quickly combine plugins for collaboration, manage their launch, and use the built-in library. All current modes and active settings are displayed on the touch screen, which increases the comfortable control of the instrument. USB Type B ports, minijack ¼, pedal input.

Advantages

• Build quality;
• Full integration with Native products;
• Smart Play button;
• Built-in library;
• The set includes software;
• OLED display;
• Stylish design.

disadvantages

• There is no MIDI connector.

The MIDI keyboard has a stylish design, complete set and solid build quality are made at the highest level. The functionality of the device is especially impressive; it integrates perfectly with all virtual Native products.

Which midi keyboard is better to buy

Despite the wide variety of MIDI keyboards on the market, users cannot figure out how to choose a midi keyboard to suit all the needs of a musician. However, when choosing, first of all, you need to take into account the level for which the equipment is designed, a set of functions and dimensions. To summarize, a short conclusion on the presented models:

• The Nektar SE49 is the best entry-level setup option. Great build.
• Akai Mpk Mini MKII is a compact model for all occasions, a good choice for beatmakers.
• Axelvox Key 49j - good key mechanics with fast return, touch sensitivity.
• Roland A-49 - Ergonomics, functionality and build quality from a reputable brand. The easiest start for professionals.
• M-Audio Code 25 - 2-octave LCD keyboard player Optimized functionality in a compact package.
• Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is the best keyboard mechanics, bright multicolor backlighting. Large range, advanced settings.
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 - balanced dynamics, wide functionality. The largest set of software.

Experts at expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ tried to select only the best midi keyboards for musicians of different levels in the review. Before you buy a keyboard instrument, you should consider not only cost, size and area of ​​use, but also prioritize the skill level of the user correctly.