7 Best MIDI Keyboards For Music Production & Performance

• A good MIDI keyboard controller is the centerpiece of your workflow
• In this guide, we’ve handpicked the finest MIDI Keyboards on the market
• Our top picks include Akai, Roland, Novation, Osmose, and others
• Also, check out our article on the best 61-key MIDI keyboards for all budgets

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A good keyboard controller is crucial to every workflow, making it doubly important to identify the perfect device for your needs and within your budget. But regarding needs, user preferences are individual, so the “best” MIDI keyboards often mean different things to different people.

Luckily, everyone can agree the device should have a sterling reputation, first-rate componentry, notable functionality, and class-leading responsiveness.

Who wants to put up with dubious pots, rickety faders, and random phantom messages that make you swear more than usual? Been there, done that; time to move upstream!

This pro guide points to the top keyboard controllers for various composing, recording, and performing applications. From portable gubbins to 88-note behemoths and deep DAW use devices, we’ve collated the best MIDI keyboards on the market alongside helpful buying advice.

It was a hard-fought task, but after scouring the web, gathering intel from veteran music producers, and doing our fair share of reviewing, we’re pretty pleased with the final results.

So, here are our favorite keyboard controllers for all music production abilities and applications. 

Best MIDI Keyboards of 2023 – Our Top Picks

Another year has passed, and we still think the Akai MPK Mini is the best mini MIDI keyboard on the market – by streets.

At the other end of the spectrum, the Roland A88MKII is our favorite MIDI controller keyboard for pianists, studio environments, and film scoring, thanks to its class-leading hammer-action keys and workhorse features/functionality at a competitive price. 

We’ve also been GAS-ing over the Osmose 49-key MPE MIDI keyboard‘s slick looks, synthesis architecture, and three-dimensional control. Now it’s your turn to do the same. 

Lastly, the Novation 61SL MKIII is one of the best MIDI keyboards for hardware control thanks to the ingenious auto-mapping control mapping, twinkly lights, continuous rotary encoders, efficient LCD menus, and a plethora of connectivity options around the back.

Here are the seven contenders for the best MIDI keyboards on the market:

1. AKAI Professional MPK MKIII Mini MIDI Keyboard (Best for Travel)
2. Roland A-88 MKII 88-key Keyboard Controller (Best for Film Scoring)
3. Osmose 49-Key MPE MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer (Best for Performance)
4. Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller (Best Value)
5. Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller 
6. Novation 61SL MK3 MIDI Keyboard (Best for Ableton)
7. Nektar Panorama P6 61-key MIDI Keyboard (Best Controller Surface)

1. AKAI Professional MPK MKIII Mini MIDI Keyboard (Best for Travel)

“The best mini MIDI keyboard for nomadic producers and backpacking musicians.”

The AKAI MPK Mini is the world’s best-selling portable keyboard controller, popular amongst raw recruits, travelers, and bedroom producers. We touted it as the best budget midi keyboard controller last year, and we still don’t see any serious contender to dethrone it.

If anything, the MPK Mini has tightened its iron grip on the best mini MIDI keyboard segment by launching a Fruity Edition and a 37-key version. But let’s clear up one thing – this portable gubbins works for all skill levels, NOT just beginners.

Key Features:

• Compact MIDI keyboard controller
• Available in 25-, 37-key versions w/ MPC Beats software
• 8 MPC-style pads and 8 ‘endless’ encoder knobs
• Note Repeat, Built-in Arpeggiator, OLED display, pitch/mod joystick
• USB bus powered, 1 pedal input
• Requirements: Windows 7 SP1 and MacOS 10.8.5 or later

Review

We’ve evaluated the Akai MPK Mini in two other ‘best of’ articles and wrote a full-length product review. It proves two things: a) we think it’s one of the finest MIDI controllers to create music on the go, and b) there is little to add today without sounding redundant.

Still, for a brief low-down, the MIDI controller keyboard scores top marks for features, functionality, and price. The best bits are the clean aesthetic, intuitive programming, smooth DAW integration, and revamped hardware of the latest version. The current avatar has notable improvements, like infinity pots, an OLED screen, and a Gen-2 keybed.

To make a long story short, the Akai MPK Mini MKII is a high-value workhorse that doesn’t sacrifice performance for portability. We’d also push you to buy a shielding cover to protect the slightly delicate controls while you travel. It’ll definitely prolong the lifespan of your device.

Pros

• Its compact size makes it the best portable MIDI keyboard
• Responsive MPC pads + Beats software
• 8 endless encoders are a big plus
• Excellent value for money

Cons

• Joystick (not wheels) for pitch bend modulation

Best Alternatives:

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK3 is also a serious contender for the best mini MIDI keyboard, especially for Abelton enthusiasts. We’ve featured a wide array of similar backpack beauts in our article on the best portable MIDI keyboards, so check that out to find the best fit for your needs.

2. Roland A-88 MKII 88-key Keyboard Controller (Best for Film Scoring)

 “The best weighted MIDI Keyboard is best for studios, film composers, and performers.”

The Roland A88MKII is a solid upgrade if you’ve outgrown cheapo 88-note MIDI keyboards and are ready to commit to excellence. It conforms to the manufacturer’s claims, green ticks all our boxes, and has hyperbolic reviews from the press and players.

So, as far as we’re concerned, you can order this MIDI Keyboard with the highest degree of buyer confidence.

Key Features:

• Ivory-feel PHA4 Standard action keys with 3-sensor detection
• 8 RGB-lit knobs, pads, and three pedal inputs
• 3 zones, onboard arp, and chord memory
• Accompanying app for customization and instant recall
• Ships with USB C-to-C and C-to-A cables; MIDI 2.0 ready

Review

The Roland A-88MKII fuses the time-tested tidbits of its predecessor with welcome controller features and a universal feel. We’re talking RGB-lit controls, USB-C connectivity, and MIDI 2.0 support. Combine these with the robust build, and you have a future-proof master controller.

The MIDI controller has three user-definable zones to split or layer sounds and instruments. Program Change, CC (for latching), and Note mode prompt the pads to respond to tactile pressure. The back panel has sustain + two assignable pedal inputs for expressive control.

Other notable features include chord memory, an advanced arpeggiator, and a custom control app for macOS and Windows. The app allows custom setups wherein you can assign commands, color code pads, and control external hardware. It does, however, have.

Roland has packed many features into the modest controller panel, including two assignable control change buttons, Transpose + Octave selectors, and more. The 88-key MIDI keyboard is arguably heavy but still more portable and compact than its rivals.

Overall, the A88MKII is a pricey but feature-rich and future-proof candidate. Some users have qualms with the section layout, but it’s too subjective to call a downside.

However, it doesn’t have continuous encoder knobs, and there’s a pitch/mod lever instead of wheels if that’s a snag for you.

Pros

• Best-in-class hammer action keys + escapement
• Compact design for the size
• Well-designed controller panel
• Excellent features and connectivity

Cons

• You’ll get a lever for pitch bend modulation

Best Alternatives:

In a parallel universe, the Doepfer LMK4+ would be our go-to choice for the best MIDI controller keyboard for film scoring. StudioLogic SL 990 and NI Kontrol S61 (reviewed below) are other popular choices for a master keyboard for film composing.

P.S. – Put those pedal inputs to great use with these 5 Best MIDI foot controllers of 2023.

3. Osmose 49-Key MPE MIDI Keyboard Synthesizer (Best for Performance)

The Osmose keyboard synth features MIDI controls double up for MPE use with other devices or DAWs. This innovative reframing of the instrument brings about pressure glides, strumming or bowing notes, and triggering sounds by releasing keys.

At the same time, the MIDI controller retains the features like global pitch/mod sliders and pedal inputs for expression and control. We barely scratch the surface of its capabilities, but there’re 500 presets, onboard FX, and killer deep editing features.

Key Features:

• 49-key MPE MIDI keyboard polyphonic synthesizer
• 3D aftertouch and digital modular sound engine,
• 500+ presets + Mac/PC software editor
• FX, DIN MIDI In/Out/Thru, 2 pedal inputs,
• USB-B Bus powered with audio and headphone Out

Review

The Osmore features a Continuum MPE Fingerboard and a MIDI keyboard right under it, both sharing the Eagan Matrix sound engine. But playing the same patch on both keyboards is a totally different experience. The Osmose MIDI controller bed is your regular MIDI keyboard.

The MPE controller has 3-D aftertouch – horizontal, vertical, and extended Z-axis. It enables expressivity for instruments like trumpet and violin, adding the “human element” like nothing else can. Plus, you can customize sensitivities and curves to best suit your playing style.

The granular synthesis, physical modeling, and the integration of waveguides and convolution yield intense ways to interact with a patch. The streamlined interface makes it easy to access and edit what you need. Unlike other MPE devices (read: Artiphon, Roli), Osmose is also a traditional MIDI keyboard, allowing conventional use when required.

It also boasts DIN MIDI in/out/thru, two pedal ports for sustain and a user-defined synth parameter, pseudo-balanced 1/4-inch TS outputs, and a 1/4-inch TRS headphone output with a dedicated volume knob. But the combination of the MPE and MIDI controllers gives superior control, eliminating the need for complex automation and control signals.

We’re confident the Osmose will be omnipresent in chart-topping tracks soon. Luckily, there’s no prerequisite skill level to milk its union of sound and movement. However, you must cough up a small fortune to enter new dimensions of creative performance.

Pros

• Spontaneous polyphonic sound control
• Best pick for expressivity and engagement
• Deep onboard controls to edit, save, and recall patches

Cons

• Pricey

Best Alternative: 

There is nothing comparable to the Osmose 49 at the moment, and it’s not available in any other size. However, musicians and performers can explore more options by reading this article covering seven weird MIDI controllers that defy convention.

4. Arturia KeyLab 88 MKII Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller (Best Value)

“The best keyboard for soft synth enthusiasts and connecting to external hardware.”

How much would you pay for a fully-weighted master keyboard with two refined grand pianos and a soft synth package? Arturia thinks the answer is three digits, and this product has been around long enough to know it’s not a typo.

So, we tout it as the best MIDI keyboard controller for various music production and playing requirements. This model is available in white and black, and there are 49- and 61-key versions with varying software bundles.

Key Features:

• 88-note Fatar keybed with hammer-action, velocity sensitivity, and aftertouch
• Hammer-action velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
• 16 pads, 9 encoders & faders, pitch/mod wheels
• Seamless integration with Arturia software
• USB bus powered, CV/Gate, MIDI, USB, and 3 pedal inputs
• Requirements: Windows 8.1 and macOS X 10.13 or later

Review

This white 88-note MIDI keyboard has wooden cheeks and comes with a music stand and computer platform/shelf. Its weighted keys are velocity and aftertouch-sensitive, with 10 curves to tailor the response. The keyboard controller has standard features and functionality, including buttons, knobs, sliders, transport controls, 5-pin DIN, and four assignable control inputs.

It’s compatible with every major DAW and offers valuable production tools like Multi mode to split/layer two sounds and Chord mode to replay up to 16 user-defined chords via the pads. Likewise, Live Mode and Snapshots let you allocate sounds and multis for quick recall.

BUT… the software bundle is the clear-cut USP here, and the MIDI keyboard comes with the highly acclaimed Analog Lab V plug-in. You also get licenses for Pianoteq 5 and UVI Grand Piano. The former is an easy-on-the-CPU physically-model piano, and the latter is a sample-based plug-in that mimics the realistic and multi-timbral tones of a Steinway Model D.

That being the case, the Arturia KeyLab 88 is an ideal candidate to get your money’s worth. It’s by no means the “best” MIDI Keyboard on the market, but the accessible price, bundled software, and hardware add-ons make it perfect if you can’t spend four figures.

Pros

• Clean aesthetic and manageable weight
• Impressive instant-access controls
• Excellent connectivity option for analog/modular gear
• Analog Lab V presets are endless fun
• Bundled software and freebies add value

Cons

• Only available in white
• No escapement action
• The onboard editing system has a learning curve

Best Alternatives:

If this one is still beyond your budget, the Arturia Keylab Essential is a cut-down package that retains the V collection sound palette, endless rotary encoders, and other differentiators. Incidentally, the 49-key version was our top pick for the best MIDI keyboard for beginners.

P.S. – Take a look at our top picks for the 7 Best 88-Key Synthesizers (All Budgets).

5. Komplete Kontrol S61 MKII MIDI Keyboard Controller 

NI’s collection of libraries and virtual instruments has massive appeal for every musician, producer, and film composer. That being the case, the Komplete S61 MIDI keyboard becomes a top-shelf choice to use NI-designed hardware for deep integration and create a smooth workflow using NKS-ready content.

The Smart Play features, streamlined browsing, and instant sound previews are reason enough to call it the best MIDI keyboard for NKS-ready content.

Key Features:

• Available in 25-, 32-, 49-, 61-, 88-key versions
• Semi-weighted Fatar keybed with 3-sensor detection
• 8 RGB-lit knobs, 4-D push encoder, touch strip, pitch/mod wheels
• USB bus powered, MIDI In/Out/USB, 2 pedal inputs
• Requirements: Windows 10 and macOS 10.12 or later

Review

The S61 features an aftertouch-enabled Fatar keyboard, USB 2.0 support, twin MIDI ports, and two pedal controller sockets. Its buttons, rotaries, ribbon-style slides, and color screen functions have a clear agenda, granting customization options and extended functionality.

This MIDI keyboard makes perfect sense if you are or plan to be a Komplete 11 user. Its main gig is the NI titles and making NKS-ready content easier to access. It shares functionality with Maschine MKII, so it’s perfect to drive the Maschine software while arranging tracks.

The keyboard controller lets you drive every aspect of the workflow, and the transport controls and 4-way push encoder are our favorite features. We also appreciate the ability to search and listen to sounds in the browser without loading them.

But if you aren’t ‘Konnected,’ the device comes with a downloadable Komplete 11 Select package link. There are upgrade paths for undecided users so that you can set up everything later.

In conclusion, this MIDI keyboard works best for NI-supported instruments and libraries, but it also communicates well with all major DAWs, including Logic Pro X and Ableton Live.

Pros

• A complete studio solution to operate within the NI ecosystem
• Top-notch graphical displays
• Improved DAW integration features for all major DAWs
• Perfect to drive Maschine MK3 software

Cons

• Still can’t substitute the Maschine MK3
• Not adapted for live performances

Best Alternatives:

Nothing is comparable to the NI Komplete S61 if you are working with NKS-ready content or NI Maschine. The best we can do is recommend the 88-note version to enable upper and lower-end key switching if you rely heavily on KONTAKT samplers.

P.S. – Check out our article on Akai Force vs. Maschine MK3 (Differences & Which to Buy).

6. Novation 61SL MK3 MIDI Keyboard (Best for Ableton)

“The best MIDI keyboard for real-time control over everything in one spread.”

The Novation 61SL MK3 marries a stellar feature set with an onboard sequencer and various digital and analog outputs. The flexible interfacing of hardware and software enables a versatile workflow and near-limitless creative possibilities.

Based on that, the 61SL is one of the best all-purpose MIDI keyboards to sequence and control plug-ins, MIDI instruments, analog hardware, and DAWs.

Key Features:

• Available in 49- and 61-key versions
• Semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
• 16 pads, 8 faders & encoders, pitch/mod wheels – All backlit
• 8-step sequencer, dedicated transport control, bundled Ableton Live Lite
• USB bus powered, MIDI In, Out, Out2/Thru, and USB, 2 pedal inputs
• Requirements: Windows 7 SP1 and MacOS 10.11.6 or later

Review

The SL MkIII has synth-style semi-weight keys – aftertouch-enabled with a fixed or adjustable velocity curve. The MIDI keyboard is replete with knobs, buttons, faders, and pads to control your DAW. It also features 5 LCD screens to monitor parameters and backlit pitch/mod wheels.

Round back, you’ve got three DIN ports (one switchable) and pedal outputs for sustain, expression, and foot switch. Analog buffs can commandeer their synths and modules using the excellent clock out and two CV pitch/gate/mod outputs channels.

The MIDI keyboard’s deep integration with Ableton, Logic, and Reason makes it employable immediately (read: out of the box). Moreover, the eight-track sequencer and built-in arp are apt to fuel your creative outbursts, and the scales, modes, and zones bestow complete control of your projects.

The pre-mapped controls, well-designed templates, and Components app are also strong selling points. But take some time to adapt it to your setup, and don’t forget the USB port only connects to a computer. It needs a 12VDC external power adapter at all times.

Pros

• Touch-sensitive controls
• Easy to navigate near-universal controller
• Excellent DAW/plug-in integration
• Twinkly lights make for excellent visual feedback
• Impressive Automap controller assignment

Cons

• The step sequencer has limitations
• Odd quirks for Logic Pro X user

Best Alternatives:

The Novation Launchkey 61 is the best alternative to the SL MK3 for Abelton users on a budget. Likewise, the M‑Audio Oxygen Pro 61 is also an excellent choice for DAW integration and playback. But both MIDI Keyboards fall behind on touch-sensitive controls.

P.S. – Check out our Launchpad Pro vs. Push 2 Shootout to find the best unit for your needs. 

7. Nektar Panorama P6 61-Key MIDI Keyboard (Best Controller Surface)

“The best MIDI keyboard for controlling your DAW and outboard MIDI gear.”

Nektar MIDI keyboards are famed for superior DAW integration, making them a top contender for a studio centerpiece at a reasonable price point. The Panorama P6 achieves that with 93 real-time controls, modern control features, software shortcuts, and best-in-class communication protocol.

The controller keyboard’s deep integration and playability make it enjoyable to use out of the box, and it’s prevalent among Reason and Logic Pro X users.

Key Features:

• 61-key MIDI Keyboard Control Surface
• Semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch
• 12 pads, 16 encoders, 9 faders, pitch/mod wheels
• Deep DAW integration for Logic Pro, Reason, Cubase, Bitwig, and Nuendo
• USB bus powered, 1 motorized fader, 5-pin MIDI din output, 2 pedal inputs
• Requirements: Windows 8 and MacOS X 10.7 or later

Review

This Panorama P6 hosts a good amount of pots/pads/faders, an 11-button transport bar that doubles up as a function bar, and two assignable pedal inputs. It also boasts a motorized ALPS fader to control and set up channel automation, an LCD screen that displays real-time info for a fluent workflow, Qwerty macros, and channel strip control to access sends, inserts, EQ, etc.

However, the critical asset is the pre-mapped controls that tie the MIDI keyboard tightly to Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Logic Pro, Studio One, and Reason. Whatever the DAW, the P6 is a top-notch control surface to create, record, and perform using the mode and menu options.

All things considered, the P6 is one of the best control surfaces for deep DAW use and highly customizable plug-in control. It also excels at seamless one-button switching to Mixer, Transport, and Instruments modes without touching your mouse or keyboard.

Pros

• Excellent componentry and functionality
• Class-leading DAW integration
• Motorized ALPS fader
• Ideal for controller
• Fairly portable for the size

Cons

• Keys feel a bit cheap
• No bundled software
• Poor integration for Ableton

Best Alternatives:

The Nektar Panorama T6 is the best alternative for music producers willing to skip the motorized fader and semi-weighted keys. If you want piano-like keys, the StudioLogic SL73 offers stellar features/functionality and connectivity around the back. It’s not very portable, though.

Buying Advice: How to Pick the Best MIDI Keyboards

There’s much to consider when determining the best MIDI keyboard controllers. They come in various shapes and sizes and are valued for portability, deep DAW use, software bundles, or do-it-all control over your plug-ins, mixer, and transport controls. Below, we discuss the specs and features for finding the best device to level up your music production workflow.

Key Size and Action

There are two aspects to the MIDI keyboard keybed – key size and action. In other words, the keys can be mini or full-size, with soft, semi-weighted, or fully-weighted action. Soft keys are also called synth-action keys, and weighted keys are hammer-action or piano-style keys.

Key size won’t matter if you use MIDI keyboards to lay down beats, bass, basic chords, and melodies. Small, synth-action keys are responsive and don’t take up too much studio real estate.

Conversely, if you are a piano or keyboard player, you’ll want a full-sized keybed with semi-weighted or hammer-action keys to recreate the feel of the traditional instrument.

What Is the Best MIDI Keyboard Size? 

The top MIDI keyboard controllers may have a 25-, 37-, 49-, 61-, 73-, or 88-note keybed. The best size (number of keys) depends on the intended purpose of the controller and piano/keyboard skill level.

A trained classical pianist may find operating a 25-key synth-action keyboard frustrating. Likewise, a novice won’t fully utilize an 88-note behemoth, resulting in overkill.

Luckily, all top MIDI keyboards have buttons to shift octaves, so every size – even 25-key controllers – allows you to access the full range of pitches. However, it can be inconvenient to push buttons while playing, and a smaller keybed prohibits two-handed playing.

Broadly speaking, on-the-go musicians and music producers prefer a 25-key MIDI keyboard that fits in a backpack because portability is paramount. If you work from a fixed location, consider 49 to 88-note MIDI keyboards based on how you intend to utilize them.

Lastly, advanced players will lean towards 61+ keys to play two-handed, and 88-note keyboards best serve pianists.

Ease of Use

Most music producers agree that good MIDI keyboards should be easy to set up, if not wholly plug-and-play. They should work as advertised out of the box, especially if they promise auto mapping and seamless integration with specific DAWs. It also helps if there is a community or forum where you can troubleshoot problems and get quick, reliable answers.

Connectivity

Music producers want connectivity options that allow them to work in the box, so we’ve picked USB bus-powered keyboard controllers with one to three pedal inputs around the back.

Opt for one pedal, at the very least, if you plan to use a sustain pedal for convincing piano parts. 5-pin MIDI out ports aren’t a must-have feature unless you plan to connect hardware.

DAW/Plug-in Integration

MIDI Keyboards with top-notch DAW/plug-in integration let you control your DAW, plug-ins, and virtual instruments with one device. These features are essential to adjust parameters using the controller and ditch the mouse/keyboard for play/pause and record arming.

Many top-rated keyboard controllers can serve as a command center if you are into that sort of thing. But some do it better than others. For instance, Nektar units are synonymous with deep integration.

Novation is a shoo-in for Ableton Live, and NI Komplete MIDI controllers are designed for interfacing hardware with supported NI instruments and libraries.

Value

MIDI controller keyboard may have varying knobs, sliders, wheels/joysticks, pads, and keys. You can determine the “value for money” by weighing the features and functionality against the device’s asking price. However, more is not always better and will add to the learning curve.

Secondly, entry-level MIDI keyboards may be feature-rich, but the hardware may feel cheap/flimsy and respond inconsistently to aftertouch. On the other hand, the top brands have a proven reputation, so it’s best to pay more if you want a market-tested MIDI controller.

Lastly, MIDI keyboards entice buyers with software bundles worth hundreds of dollars. Free software adds value, but only if the titles are helpful for your audio projects.

Before you go, check out our guide to our Best Free MIDI Keyboard Software (6 Great Options)!