Musicians today crave tools that match their dynamic lifestyles in today’s technologically advanced world. The best small MIDI keyboard controllers have become the go-to for creators looking for portability without sacrificing functionality.

We’ve scoured the market and consulted with professionals to bring you the definitive list of the best small MIDI keyboards that promise to deliver big-on performance.

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The Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers In 2024 (Top 15)

1. Novation Launchkey 49: Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers

The Launchkey 49 is one of the best small MIDI Keyboard Controllers and is tailor-made for seamless integration with Ableton Live, making it an ideal companion for Ableton users.

With dedicated transport controls, track navigation, and clip launching buttons you have an efficient and hands-on experience, allowing you to focus on your creativity rather than getting lost in menu diving.

The Launchkey 49 also boasts 8 rotary encoders, 9 faders, and additional buttons to provide comprehensive control over virtual instruments and effects.

It has a velocity-sensitive synth-style keybed and pitch and modulation wheels onboard. The 16 RGB backlit drum pads are another highlight of the Launchkey 49, allowing you to trigger samples, launch clips, and create dynamic drum patterns.

Novation’s Automap technology is an intelligent mapping system that automatically assigns controls to parameters in your DAW, ensuring a hassle-free setup process. The Launchkey 49 is well-suited for musicians and producers across all genres.

Also, if you plan to perform, be sure to get a 49-key keyboard case to protect your Novation Launchkey 49!

2. Arturia MiniLab 3: Fully Preloaded

The Arturia MiniLab 3 breaks the mold by offering standalone functionality. With 500 preloaded samples, it’s ready to capture your musical ideas whenever inspiration strikes.

It offers a robust build and excellent controls, with 8 pads, 8 faders, and 8 knobs. You also have the standard shift and octave up/down buttons. It’s amazing what Arturia has fit onto this keyboard!

The bundled software includes Analog Lab Intro and Ableton Live Lite. The Arturia MiniLab 3 comes in white, black, and deep black (black outer body and black keybed).

A hard case is also available for this mini MIDI keyboard:

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Also, If you want a full-size MIDI keyboard, check out the fabulous Arturia Keylab Essential 88-key. It also comes in a 49-key model and a 61-key model.

3. Akai Professional MPK Mini MK 3: Best MIDI Drum Pads

Akai’s latest and greatest mini keyboard is the MPK Mini MK III. It is the 3rd iteration of the world’s best-selling 25-key mini MIDI keyboard controller and one of the best MIDI controllers for beginners.

This controller offers eight pads and eight encoders, all assignable, in a package that’s just a tad heavier than the Launchkey but still fits comfortably in your backpack.

It features an innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range, and modes.

This mini MIDI controller also offers 8 knobs that can be turned 360 degrees and assigned to your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls, and more

The Akai MPK Mini Mk 3 has deep DAW integration and includes 1,500 sounds. It is also available in a 37-key model, in white, grey, and all-black. A carry case is also available for this mini MIDI keyboard:

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4. Alesis V25 MKII: Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controller for Beginners

The Alesis V25 MKII is perfect for musicians starting in the world of production. It offers a quality keyboard with a few encoders and pads, all in a design that’s less cluttered and more focused.

This is one of the best MIDI controllers for drums with its 8-velocity and pressure-sensitive backlit pads, which are ideal for beat production and clip launching.

It’s slightly heavier, but this makes the Alesis V25 MK2 more durable and the inclusion of small pitch and modulation wheels makes it a solid choice for newcomers.

A carry case is also available:

5. Arturia Keystep Pro 37-key: Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers

The Arturia Keystep Pro is a powerful and versatile MIDI controller and sequencer that has earned its place as a centerpiece in the modern electronic music studio.

As a follow-up to the popular Keystep, the Pro version takes things to the next level with an expanded feature set, making it an attractive option for musicians, producers, and performers alike.

The 37 velocity-sensitive keys offer a comfortable playing experience and the 64-step sequencer per track, coupled with automation capabilities, opens up endless possibilities for dynamic and evolving compositions.

With four independent polyphonic sequencer tracks, a drum sequencer, and a metronome, this controller is a powerhouse for creating intricate musical arrangements. A protective case, and Decksaver cover, are also available.

6. Novation Launchkey Mini MK3: Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is one of the best 25-key MIDI controllers for most users. Weighing less than a pound, it’s a marvel of design, packing 24 assignable buttons into a footprint smaller than a square foot.

The intuitive Ableton Live control includes device macro control, track select, record, capture MIDI, clip and scene launch, stop/mute/solo, volume, pans, and sends.

The arpeggiator is easy to use and allows you to change the rhythm, beat, pattern, octave, gate, and more to add diversity to your ideas and melodies.

With the Launchkey mini, you can also play chords with one finger with fixed chord mode. The keyboard will automatically change chords when you change the key that you play, making this one of the best MIDI keyboards for beginners!

The Novation Launchkey Mini is one of the best mini MIDI controllers with its unique design and seamless integration with Ableton. A carry case is also available:

7. Arturia Keylab Essential 49-key: Most User-Friendly Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Arturia’s KeyLab Essential 49 is a comprehensive MIDI controller that balances functionality, affordability, and ease of use. It features a responsive and expressive keybed with velocity sensitivity, providing a dynamic playing experience.

The Analog Lab software provides access to an extensive collection of high-quality sounds from Arturia’s V Collection, giving users a diverse range of sonic possibilities right out of the box.

The backlit controls and customizable color options for the pads enhance visibility in dimly lit environments, making it suitable for both studio and stage use.

For live performers and studio musicians alike, the KeyLab Essential 49 offers performance features such as touch-sensitive pitch bend, modulation wheels, and 8 RGB backlit pads that provide responsive and dynamic triggering.

Also, check out the Novation Launchkey 88 Mk3, one of the best full-size MIDI keyboards!

8. Arturia MicroLab 25: Tiny Beat Maker

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Despite its small size, the MicroLab 25 doesn’t compromise on playability. The velocity-sensitive mini-keys provide a responsive and expressive playing experience and are well-suited for sketching out musical ideas and melodies.

The inclusion of a sustain pedal is welcome, and the touch-sensitive pitch and modulation strips are quite a unique addition, offering an alternative to traditional mod wheels.

The inclusion of Analog Lab Lite software, featuring a collection of high-quality sounds from Arturia’s V Collection is another big selling point. It adds value for musicians looking to expand their sonic palette without investing in additional virtual instruments.

The MicroLab 25 is an excellent tool for capturing musical ideas on the fly, and it helps prove that good things come in small packages, which we consider a win.

Also, if you appreciate high-quality drum pads, check out the Arturia BeatStep Pro Controller and Sequencer with Aftertouch and 2 independent melodic sequencers, a drum sequencer, 16 drum pads, and Music production software included!

9. M-Audio Keystation 49: Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers

The Keystation 49 is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on core features. Its minimalist design makes it an excellent choice for beginners or those who prefer a simple and efficient controller without the need for integrated pads, knobs, or sliders.

The inclusion of velocity-sensitive full-sized keys on the Keystation 49 ensures a comfortable playing experience, especially for musicians who are accustomed to traditional piano-style keys.

The Keystation 49 is compatible with a wide range of digital audio workstations (DAWs) and music software and is compatible with both Mac and PC.

10. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini: Professional MIDI Keyboard Controller

The M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini is a compact and feature-packed MIDI controller that punches above its weight. With 32 velocity-sensitive mini keys, it offers a portable solution for musicians and joins our list of the top small MIDI keyboard controllers.

The controller’s streamlined design incorporates eight backlit, assignable knobs and responsive touch strips, providing essential hands-on control without overwhelming the user.

Despite its small footprint, the Oxygen Pro Mini boasts impressive functionality. The Smart Chord and Smart Scale features empower beginners with easy chord creation and scale selection, while the versatile arpeggiator opens up creative possibilities.

Integration with popular DAWs is seamless, thanks to the auto-mapping feature, streamlining the music production process. A hard case is also available to protect your Oxygen Pro Mini.

11. Arturia Keylab 49 Mk 2 & 3: Best 49-key Semi-Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Arturia Keylab 49 Mk 2 is still one of the best small MIDI Keyboard Controllers.

The KeyLab MkII 49 stands out with its robust build quality and ergonomic layout. The aluminum chassis exudes durability, and the backlit controls contribute to an elegant aesthetic while enhancing visibility in low-light environments.

The inclusion of nine faders, nine rotary encoders, and 16 backlit RGB pads provides a comprehensive array of hands-on control. The Arturia Keylab 49 Mk 2 is a versatile centerpiece for music production.

12. Nektar Impact LX25+: The Minimalist’s Dream

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For those who prefer simplicity, the Nektar Impact LX25+ is a revelation, boasting a lightweight and expressive two-octave keyboard.

Its design is clever, with each key doubling as a secondary parameter button, allowing for quick changes without the clutter of extra controls. It also features an onboard pitch bend, 2 modulation wheels, and 8 Hyper-Sensitive backlit pads.

The Nektar LX25 is compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS. If portability and straightforward functionality are your priorities, the Nektar Impact LX25+ is a top contender.

A case is available to protect your Nektar Impact LX25+ small MIDI keyboard controllers:

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13. Alesis Q49: Best Small Midi Keyboard Controllers

The Alesis Q49 is one of the best small MIDI keyboard controllers with 49 full-sized keys. It caters to musicians who seek a larger playing surface without sacrificing portability.

The Q49’s design is straightforward, featuring essential controls for effective music production. The pitch bend and modulation wheels provide dynamic expression, while octave up/down buttons extend the range of the keys.

While lacking some of the advanced features found in more expensive models, the Alesis Q49 excels in delivering a reliable and accessible MIDI control solution.

14. Korg NanoKEY 2: 25-Key Midi Controller

The Korg nanoKEY is an ultra-compact MIDI controller that prioritizes portability and simplicity. With 25 mini keys, it’s designed for on-the-go music creation.

Despite its small size, it offers basic functionality with essential controls like octave shift buttons and a sustain button. The nanoKEY is an ideal choice for musicians seeking a lightweight and minimalistic MIDI solution for quick setups and mobile production.

The Korg nanoKEY 2 represents a notable improvement over its predecessor, the nanoKEY. The second iteration features an enhanced design with improved key responsiveness, providing a more satisfying and accurate playing experience.

15. Midiplus AKM320: Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers

The Midiplus AKM320 is a compact and affordable small MIDI keyboard controller with 32 mini keys. This controller is designed for portability without compromising basic functionality.

It has the controls and connections you would expect on a MIDI keyboard, with mod wheels, octave up and down buttons, a volume slider, a sustain pedal input, and transpose buttons.

The AKM320’s no-frills design makes it an excellent entry-level option. The velocity-sensitive keys provide a responsive playing experience, while the octave shift buttons expand the playable range.

If you are looking for budget-friendly small MIDI keyboard controllers, this MIDIPLUS keyboard excels in simplicity and is worth a look!

Best Small MIDI Keyboard Controllers FAQs

Q1. What Is a MIDI Controller?

MIDI has been around for decades and allows musicians to make music using a ‘blank’ keyboard without internal sounds, by utilizing software instruments and DAWs. A DAW is a Digital Audio Workstation.

A MIDI controller is a compact musical instrument that allows users to control and play software synthesizers, virtual instruments, and digital audio workstations (DAWs) using MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) data.

MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, and a small MIDI keyboard typically refers to a device with a reduced number of keys compared to a full-sized piano or keyboard.

Q2. Which Is the Best Small MIDI Controller?

• Akai Professional MPK Mini MK III – The Travel-Friendly Pro Keyboard
• Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 – The Compact Powerhouse
• Nektar SE25 – The Minimalist’s Dream
• Arturia MiniLab 3 – The Standalone Sensation
• Alesis V25 MKII – The Beginner-Friendly Option

Q3. What Is the Best Size for a MIDI Keyboard?

The best size for a MIDI keyboard depends on your specific needs, preferences, and how you plan to use it. MIDI keyboards come in various sizes, ranging from compact controllers with as few as 25 keys to larger models with 49, 61, or even 88 keys.

Q4. What Is the Best Brand of Midi Keyboard?

The Best MIDI Keyboards In 2024

• Arturia (Keylab Essential MK3): Best User-Friendly Controls and Software
• Akai (MPC): Best Pro MIDI Keyboard
• Novation (Launchkey): Best All-Rounder
• Nektar (LX): Best Budget MIDI Controllerr
• Kawai (VPC1): Best MIDI Keyboard With Weighted Keys

5. Can I Learn To Play On a MIDI Keyboard?

A MIDI keyboard is a great way to start learning piano, and there are many fantastic choices. You can go for a mini keyboard, but a full-size 88-key MIDI keyboard would be a better long-term solution if you will be having piano lessons.

Conclusion

The best small MIDI keyboard controllers offer a blend of portability, functionality, and quality that can satisfy the needs of the most demanding musicians.

Whether you’re performing live, composing on the go, or producing in a tight space, there’s a compact MIDI controller out there that’s perfect for you.