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Midi Controllers

10 Best Midi Controllers 2025 in the United States

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Gemini Sou

Gemini Sound

Gemini Sound GMX Versatile DJ Controller & Media Player - Compact USB/MIDI System with VirtualDJ LE, Ideal for Mobile DJs & Live Performances

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#1

Winner

Akai Profe

Akai Professional

Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 - 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs, Music Production Software and Native Instruments Sound Package (NKS Integration), Grey

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Sponsored

Gemini Sou

Gemini Sound

Gemini Sound GMX Versatile DJ Controller & Media Player - Compact USB/MIDI System with VirtualDJ LE, Ideal for Mobile DJs & Live Performances

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#2
Arturia Mi

ARTURIA

Arturia MiniLab 3 - Universal MIDI Controller for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package - 25 Keys, 8 Multi-Color Pads - White

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#3
Akai Profe

Akai Professional

Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O and Native Instruments Sound Package, White Limited Edition

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#4
Arturia Ke

ARTURIA

Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

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#5
M-Audio Ke

M-Audio

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 – 88 Key Semi Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller for Complete Command of Virtual Synthesizers and DAW parameters

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#6
Novation L

Novation

Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4 — Portable 25 Mini-Key, USB, MIDI Keyboard Controller with DAW Integration. Chord Mode, Scale Mode, Drum Pads, and Arpeggiator. Includes Music Creation Software Bundle

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#7
M-Audio Ke

M-Audio

M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 - Synth Action 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Assignable Controls, Pitch and Mod Wheels, and Software Included

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#8
Akai Profe

Akai Professional

Akai Professional MPK Mini Play MK3 - MIDI Keyboard Controller with Built-in Speaker and Sounds Plus Dynamic Keybed, MPC Pads, Software Suite and Native Instruments Sound Package

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#9
M-AUDIO Ox

M-Audio

M-AUDIO Oxygen Pro 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads, MIDI-assignable Knobs, Buttons and Faders, and Native Instruments Sound Package (NKS Integration)

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#10
Akai Profe

Akai Professional

Akai Professional MPC One+ Standalone Drum Machine, Beat Maker and MIDI Controller with WiFi, Bluetooth, Drum Pads, Synth Plug-ins, Touchscreen, and Native Instruments Integration

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Our Top Picks

#2

Arturia MiniLab 3 - Universal MIDI Controller for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package - 25 Keys, 8 Multi-Color Pads - White

9.6  score

Arturia MiniLab 3 - Universal MIDI Controller for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package - 25 Keys, 8 Multi-Color Pads - White

ARTURIA

9.6  score

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Rating
9.6
Number of Keys/Pads
Key/Pad Sensitivity
Connectivity

Most important from
2325 reviews

Number of Keys/Pads
It's an excellent choice for beginners, with the right amount of knobs and drum pads, and a straightforward setup process.
Key/Pad Sensitivity
The keys are very soft and responsive, making beat-making a breeze, especially when compared to other mini keyboards like the Akai mini.
Connectivity
This MIDI controller stands out with its standard MIDI out socket and right-angle USB-C cable, adding to its excellent value.
Software Integration
Plug and play functionality is seamless, working perfectly with Logic X right out of the box.
Build Quality and Portability
The Arturia MiniLab 3 is perfect for on-the-go creativity with its consistent and quiet key action, making it ideal for late-night sessions.

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a versatile MIDI controller ideal for music production and performance. Sporting 25 velocity-sensitive keys and 8 multi-color pads, it offers a responsive playing experience. The 8 rotary encoders and 4 sliders provide ample control over your mixes, making it adaptable to various workflows and styles. Additionally, it includes touch sensors for pitch bend and modulation, enhancing musical expression.

Connectivity is a breeze with its USB-C port and MIDI out, supporting both Mac and Windows devices. The compact and lightweight design (2.2 pounds) ensures it's portable enough for on-the-go creativity, fitting snugly into a backpack. Its plastic build, while lightweight, is robust and promises durability with a 5-year warranty.

The MiniLab 3 excels in software integration, coming with a suite of included software like Ableton Live Lite and Analog Lab V, plus subscriptions to Loopcloud and Melodics, providing a comprehensive package for music creation. However, with only 25 keys, it may not suit those needing a wider range for more complex compositions. The small display and clickable browsing knob might take some getting used to for detailed control. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MiniLab 3's blend of features, portability, and software support makes it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned musicians alike.

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Rating
9.6
Number of Keys/Pads
Key/Pad Sensitivity
Connectivity

Most important from
2325 reviews

Number of Keys/Pads
It's an excellent choice for beginners, with the right amount of knobs and drum pads, and a straightforward setup process.
Key/Pad Sensitivity
The keys are very soft and responsive, making beat-making a breeze, especially when compared to other mini keyboards like the Akai mini.
Connectivity
This MIDI controller stands out with its standard MIDI out socket and right-angle USB-C cable, adding to its excellent value.
Software Integration
Plug and play functionality is seamless, working perfectly with Logic X right out of the box.
Build Quality and Portability
The Arturia MiniLab 3 is perfect for on-the-go creativity with its consistent and quiet key action, making it ideal for late-night sessions.
#3

Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O and Native Instruments Sound Package, White Limited Edition

9.3  score

Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O and Native Instruments Sound Package, White Limited Edition

Akai Professional

9.3  score

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Rating
9.3
Number of Keys/Pads
Key/Pad Sensitivity
Control Knobs, Faders, and Buttons

Most important from
1435 reviews

Number of Keys/Pads
The keys are smaller than expected but still manageable, perfect for sitting at a desk or on a lap.
Key/Pad Sensitivity
The drum pads are a bit stiff but can be adjusted for better performance.
Control Knobs, Faders, and Buttons
With a lot of control buttons, the interface can be intimidating at first but turns out to be incredibly easy to use.
Connectivity
Plug and play functionality with instant response during play, even with different DAWs.
Software Integration
Akai is known for their quality products, and the three free, industry-grade plugins included make this a bargain.
Build Quality and Portability
The keys take a little adjustment, but once broken in, it feels like a quality item. Super lightweight and portable, making it incredibly easy to transport.

The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is a versatile USB MIDI keyboard controller that features 37 mini keys for a broad range of melodic and harmonic expression. With its compact and portable design, it is ideal for musicians on the go. The inclusion of 8 responsive RGB MPC pads offers dynamic performance capabilities, making it suitable for various music genres.

The device also provides 8 assignable rotary knobs for hands-on control over your digital audio workstation (DAW), enhancing your workflow and creative process. Advanced connectivity options, including CV/Gate and MIDI I/O, allow you to integrate modular gear and other hardware seamlessly into your setup. This makes it a valuable tool for both studio and live performances. The built-in 64-step sequencer is a notable feature, enabling users to record and compose even without a computer, adding flexibility to your music production process.

The MPC Beats software included with the controller provides a robust platform with thousands of drum samples and instrument presets, which is a fantastic add-on for beat making and music creation. The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus stands out with its comprehensive feature set, solid build quality, and portable design, making it an excellent choice for electronic music producers, beat makers, and musicians seeking a compact yet powerful MIDI controller.

Check price

Rating
9.3
Number of Keys/Pads
Key/Pad Sensitivity
Control Knobs, Faders, and Buttons

Most important from
1435 reviews

Number of Keys/Pads
The keys are smaller than expected but still manageable, perfect for sitting at a desk or on a lap.
Key/Pad Sensitivity
The drum pads are a bit stiff but can be adjusted for better performance.
Control Knobs, Faders, and Buttons
With a lot of control buttons, the interface can be intimidating at first but turns out to be incredibly easy to use.
Connectivity
Plug and play functionality with instant response during play, even with different DAWs.
Software Integration
Akai is known for their quality products, and the three free, industry-grade plugins included make this a bargain.
Build Quality and Portability
The keys take a little adjustment, but once broken in, it feels like a quality item. Super lightweight and portable, making it incredibly easy to transport.

Buying Guide for the Best Midi Controllers

When choosing a MIDI controller, it's important to consider how you plan to use it and what features will best support your music production or performance needs. MIDI controllers come in various shapes and sizes, each offering different functionalities. Understanding the key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your requirements.
Number of Keys/PadsThe number of keys or pads on a MIDI controller determines how many notes or sounds you can play simultaneously. This is important because it affects the range and complexity of the music you can create. Controllers with 25 keys are compact and portable, suitable for simple melodies and basslines. Controllers with 49 or 61 keys offer a wider range, making them ideal for more complex compositions. Full-sized 88-key controllers are best for pianists and those who need a full range of notes. Similarly, the number of pads can vary, with more pads allowing for more intricate drum patterns and sample triggering.
Key/Pad SensitivityKey or pad sensitivity refers to how responsive the keys or pads are to the force with which they are played. This is important for expressive playing, as it allows for dynamic control over the volume and intensity of the notes. Controllers with velocity-sensitive keys or pads can detect how hard or soft you play, adding nuance to your performance. Some controllers also offer aftertouch, which responds to pressure applied after the initial strike. If you need expressive control, look for controllers with high sensitivity and aftertouch capabilities.
Control Knobs, Faders, and ButtonsControl knobs, faders, and buttons allow you to manipulate various parameters within your music software, such as volume, panning, and effects. This is important for hands-on control and real-time adjustments during production or performance. The number and type of controls can vary widely. Basic controllers may have a few knobs and buttons, while more advanced models offer multiple faders, rotary encoders, and assignable buttons. Consider how much control you need and whether you prefer tactile interaction with your software.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how the MIDI controller interfaces with your computer or other devices. This is important for ensuring compatibility and ease of use. Most controllers connect via USB, which is standard for modern setups. Some also offer traditional MIDI ports for connecting to other MIDI hardware. Wireless options are available for greater flexibility and mobility. Ensure the controller you choose has the necessary connections for your setup, whether it's a simple USB connection or more complex MIDI routing.
Software IntegrationSoftware integration refers to how well the MIDI controller works with your digital audio workstation (DAW) or other music software. This is important for a seamless workflow and efficient music production. Some controllers come with pre-mapped controls for popular DAWs, making setup quick and easy. Others offer customizable mapping, allowing you to assign controls to specific functions within your software. If you use a specific DAW, look for controllers that offer tight integration with that software to enhance your productivity.
Build Quality and PortabilityBuild quality and portability affect the durability and convenience of the MIDI controller. This is important for both studio use and live performances. Controllers made from high-quality materials are more likely to withstand heavy use and last longer. Portability is a key factor if you plan to travel with your controller or use it in different locations. Lightweight and compact models are easier to transport, while larger, sturdier models may offer more features but are less portable. Consider your usage scenario and choose a controller that balances build quality with portability.

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