For musicians who are constrained by space or always on the move, one of the best MIDI keyboards in compact mini size is extremely useful. These compact devices allow for music creation in the most cramped of spaces or while traveling.
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The Best MIDI Keyboards (Mini) Expert Reviews (Top 10)
Contents
Here’s a breakdown and review of the 10 best mini MIDI controllers.
1. Akai MPK Mini Mk3
The Akai MPK Mini Mk3 tops the list with its lightweight design and feature-rich interface. It boasts drum pads, eight endless rotary knobs, and dedicated function buttons, including a powerful built-in arpeggiator.
The innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control and a small OLED display for real-time feedback makes this a unique MIDI keyboard. It also has a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range, and modes.
The 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MIDI beat pads have note repeat and levels for programming drums, triggering samples, and controlling virtual synthesizer/DAW controls.
Also included are 1500 plus sounds and everything you need for pro production with a complete music production starter kit, MPC Beats, 6 Virtual Instruments, and 2GB of sound content. The Akai MPK mini is arguably the best mini MIDI keyboard available.
Pros:
- Killer drum pads and endless rotary knobs
- Fantastic build quality and a comprehensive software bundle
2. Arturia MiniLab 3
A close second, the Arturia MiniLab 3 impresses with its sleek design and extensive assignable controls, including eight rotary knobs and four faders.
The faders add a dynamic layer to performances, and the MiniLab 3 also features a built-in arpeggiator, advanced Chord mode, and 5-pin MIDI in/out for external gear connections.
The included software bundle is a significant draw for many users, as are the touch strips to modulate your sound while playing.
Pros:
- Great production tools and assignable controls
- Extensive software bundle
- Sleek and compact design
3. Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3
For Ableton users, the Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3 is a dream come true. It offers 16 velocity-sensitive pads, a responsive keyboard feel, and production tools that are user-friendly and give you new ways to compose music.
Launchkey Mini’s creative arpeggiator allows you to change rhythm, beat, pattern, octave, gate, and more to add a whole range of diversity to your ideas and melodies.
Mutate mode serves as an inspiration source by adding a touch of randomness to your creations.
You can also play a chord with one finger by assigning a fixed shape to the keys and it’ll transpose as you move up and down the keyboard.
Pros:
- Integrates well with all major DAWS (Logic, Cubase, Pro Tools, and more)
- Comes in 25-key, 37-key, 49-key, and 61-key models
- Sleek and compact design
4. Arturia MicroLab
The Arturia MicroLab is the ultimate travel companion for musicians. It’s one of the smallest on the list but still features 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, touch strips for pitch and modulation, and a Chord mode.
Its beginner-friendliness, affordability, and variety of colors available, make the Arturia MicroLab one of the best mini MIDI keyboards available.
Pros:
- Extremely compact and ideal for travel.
- Industry-acclaimed 25 velocity-sensitive slim-keys keybed
- Rubberized case included
- Capacitive pitch and modulation touch strip
- Includes USB cable
5. Akai MPK225 Mk2
The Akai MPK225 is perfect for beatmakers on the go. It’s one of the smallest MIDI keyboard controllers available yet it boasts a seven-mode arpeggiator, tap tempo, and sustain buttons.
The software bundle, including MPC Beats and various virtual instruments, adds significant value to the instrument.
The MPK225 has 8 RGB-illuminated drum pads each with 4 banks for 32 pads for triggering samples, loops, one-shots, melodic, and more.
This mini MIDI keyboard also has 12 assignable Q-Link controls including 8 control knobs and 4 backlit buttons engineered for hassle-free virtual Instrument mapping. Uniquely, there is also an onboard USB-MIDI interface with 5-pin MIDI input & output.
You can read more about the Akai MPK225 Mk2 in this Reddit post.
Pros:
- Designed with beatmakers in mind
- Includes a sustain button and a robust software bundle
- Great controls
6. Korg microKEY2
The Korg microKEY2 is a compact MIDI controller that’s known for its natural and playable mini-keyboard. It is USB-powered and comes with a music software bundle to get you started, making it a great choice for beginners.
Pros:
- Natural-feeling keys
- It can be used with iPad and iPhone
Cons:
- Limited control options compared to other mini MIDI keyboards
7. M-Audio Oxygen IV
The M-Audio Oxygen IV is a versatile MIDI keyboard with full-size, synth-action keys. It includes eight velocity-sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching, eight assignable knobs, and a built-in arpeggiator.
A complete software production package is included, with MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech, and Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs.
Check out this Hard Case as well, to keep your mini Oxygen MIDI keyboard safe when you travel.
Pros:
- Full-size keys
- Versatile control options
- DirectLink mode automatically maps controls to popular DAWs
- Comes in 25, 32, 49, and 61-key models
8. Nektar Impact LX25+
The Nektar Impact LX25+ is designed for seamless integration with many popular DAWs, offering extensive control options and DAW control with Nektar DAW Integration software.
Pros:
- Extensive DAW control
- Good keybed feel
- Pads, knobs, and switches are all assignable
9. Korg Nanokey 25-Key Mini
This is an extremely compact and simple 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard that is ideal if you only need basic functionality and want something cheap and portable.
- Velocity-sensitive keys
- The sustain button is ideal for playing piano parts
10. Novation FLkey Mini
This is another mini MIDI keyboard for Novation that integrates especially well with FL Studio. This keyboard comes with a six-month trial to FL Producer, and the drum pads work seamlessly with the software when utilizing the sequencer.
You can adjust your parameters with the eight assignable knobs, and trigger FPC and SliceX with the pads for more expressive beats and melodies. You can also use the scale and fixed chord modes to make music easily and play custom chords with one finger.
- Take control of FL Studio’s step sequencer to program drums easily
- Play directly into the channel rack from FLkey Mini’s pads
FAQ
1. What Is a Mini MIDI Keyboard?
A mini MIDI keyboard is a compact version of a MIDI controller designed for portability and convenience. It typically features fewer keys than a full-size keyboard, making it ideal for musicians on the go or those with limited space.
While full-size MIDI keyboards offer a wider range of keys, Mini MIDI keyboards are favored for their portability and ease of use.
2. Are They Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, Mini MIDI keyboards are excellent for beginners. Their compact size is user-friendly for those just starting in music production or learning to play. They often come with essential features and are more budget-friendly than larger alternatives.
3. Can I Use It With My Mobile Device or Tablet?
Many Mini MIDI keyboards are compatible with mobile devices and tablets, offering a convenient way to create music on the go. Ensure that the keyboard you choose supports your preferred device and operating system.
4. What Features Should I Consider?
Consider factors such as the number of keys, key size, additional control options (pads, knobs), connectivity (USB, Bluetooth), and software compatibility. The best choice depends on your specific needs, whether you prioritize portability, control options, or integration with your existing setup.
5. Do They Come With Built-In Sounds?
Mini MIDI keyboards are typically controllers without built-in sounds. They transmit MIDI data to software or hardware synthesizers, allowing you to play a variety of virtual instruments on your computer or external sound modules.
6. Can I Use It for Live Performances?
Yes, Mini MIDI keyboards can be used for live performances, especially if portability is a priority. Some models offer additional performance features like pads and sliders, enhancing their suitability for live use.
Conclusion
Each of these mini MIDI keyboards brings something unique to the table, whether it’s portability, control options, or software bundles. They are all excellent choices for modern musicians who need to make music wherever they are.
