Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers — Winter 2023

A digital workstation isn’t complete without a MIDI controller. Luckily, Sweetwater has taken the guesswork out of choosing the perfect MIDI controller for your setup. From professional studios to on-the-go performances, every production artist and music maker will find the best MIDI controller for their applications below. Whether you have a propensity for weighted, hammer-action keys or lean toward springy, fast, synth-action keys, or something in between, we’ve categorized the best MIDI keyboards so you can find your preference and narrow your choices. What is the bonus of buying a MIDI controller? Many come with included software and virtual instruments to get you started making beats or composing your next soundtrack right away. If you have a specific DAW that you’re comfortable using, then keep your eyes peeled for MIDI controllers that come with presets or maps for your chosen workstation. Now, let’s get into the fun part! 

Note: At Sweetwater, we know there's no such thing as 'best' when it comes to music gear. Every player and artist has unique tastes, which is what makes selecting gear so fun! The items on this list feature some of our favorite products from top manufacturers to help you start your buying journey! Explore these recommendations and dive into Sweetwater's massive collection of gear on our online store. For personalized picks and expert advice, please contact our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700!

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers — Our Picks

For convenience, we’ve organized our list of keyboard controllers into three categories: synth-action, semi-weighted, and weighted. To learn more about the differences between the three categories, check out Keyboard Action Types in the Buying Advice section that follows our product recommendations below.   

Best Synth-action MIDI Keyboard ControllersArturia MiniLab 3 25 Slim-key ControllerNovation Launchkey 49 MK3 49-key Keyboard ControllerM-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 49-key Keyboard ControllerKorg microKEY Air-61 61-key Bluetooth Keyboard ControllerAkai Professional MPK Mini MK III Limited Edition Black on Black 25-key Keyboard ControllerBest Semi-weighted MIDI Keyboard ControllersNektar Impact LX88+ 88-key Keyboard ControllerAlesis VI25 25-key Keyboard ControllerNative Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Smart Keyboard ControllerArturia KeyLab 61 MkII 61-key Keyboard ControllerAkai Professional MPK225 25-key Keyboard ControllerBest Weighted MIDI Keyboard ControllersStudiologic SL88 Studio 88-key Keyboard ControllerKurzweil KM88 88-key ControllerArturia KeyLab 88 MkII 88-key Weighted Keyboard ControllerM-Audio Hammer 88 88-key Keyboard ControllerRoland A-88 MKII 88-key Keyboard Controller

Best Synth-action MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Arturia MiniLab 3 25 Slim-key Controller

Friend to beginner and pros alike

If you’re the “inspiration strikes me on the go” type of person, then Arturia designed the MiniLab 3 just for you. Weighing only three pounds, its MIDI-enabled compact body sports 25 synth-action keys plus plenty of encoders, velocity pads, sliders, and more tactile controls that’ll provide you with detailed control in your favorite DAW. Speaking of which, the MiniLab 3 is pre-mapped for most DAWs and also has 500 presets to get the creative juices flowing. The MiniLab 3 can grow with the blooming skills of a beginner or adequately match the skills of a pro — all in a portable and eco-designed chassis. 

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductArturia MiniLab 3Number of Keys25Type of KeysSynth ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPads8 x RGB Back-lit Pressure Sensitive PadsEncoders/Pots8MIDI I/OOut/USBPros• Great MIDI keyboard controller for beginners • Compact, portable, and sleek design• Comes with Arturia’s Analog Lab synth and keyboard sounds

Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 49-key Keyboard Controller

Streamlined for Ableton Live use

Up the ante with 49 synth-action keys on the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3. This keyboard controller fits in seamlessly with Ableton Live workflows and features the deepest Ableton Live integration yet. But it also has plug-and-play functionality with almost any other major DAW. The Launchkey 49 MK3 packs impressive tools, including scale, chord, and custom modes; a powerful arpeggiator; and one-touch Capture MIDI access in Ableton Live, to name a few. A detailed controller, the Launchkey 49 MK3 sports velocity-sensitive keys as well as velocity-sensitive pads to give you incredible control over your sound so you can forge your best creations.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductNovation Launchkey 49 MK3Number of Keys49Type of KeysSynth ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPads16 x RGB, Velocity-sensitive PadsEncoders/Pots8 x Rotary KnobsMIDI I/OOut/USBPros• Great option for intermediate or advanced keyboardists looking for a synth-action MIDI keyboard controller• Loads of controls and ability to tweak• Comes with software, including Ableton Live 10 Lite, Spitfire Audio LABS Expressive Strings, and many more

M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 49-key Keyboard Controller

USB plug-and-play for Mac or PC

Another 49-key controller, the M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3, is an excellent USB controller for virtual instrument lovers that play and perform with their Mac or PC. For instance, a MIDI value assignable volume slider plus pitch, modulation, and octave wheels present creators with the controls needed to access the full capacities of their software. Built to be compact and lightweight, the Keystation 49 MK3 easily fits in any studio and transports to performances with ease. The simple and quick USB plug-and-play operation of this keyboard controller has made it a quick favorite among artists that create, compose, and arrange various genres of music.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductM-Audio Keystation 49 MK3Number of Keys49Type of KeysSynth Action, Full-sizedVelocity SensitiveYesPadsNoEncoders/PotsNoMIDI I/OUSBPros• Great for beginners who want more than 25 keys• Lightweight, expressive, and one of the most affordable MIDI keyboard controllers on the market• Control set that is easy to understand

Korg microKEY Air-61 61-key Bluetooth Keyboard Controller

Five octaves of wireless control

Say goodbye to cable clutter with the Korg microKEY Air-61. This keyboard controller connects to your computer, laptop, or mobile device through low-latency Bluetooth technology. Korg’s Natural Touch keybed delivers optimum playability while the compact body design easily fits inside any studio, apartment, or home. The microKEY Air-61 isn’t shy about traveling either. Users will have 30 hours of battery life on two AA batteries — that’s a month of music making when played for one hour per day. Pitch and modulation wheels, plus a sustain pedal input, set you up for success in music production software and apps. With an included USB port, users can take advantage of this plug-and-play method as well.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductKorg microKEY Air-61Number of Keys61Type of KeysKorg Natural Touch Mini-keysVelocity SensitiveYesPadsNoEncoders/PotsNoMIDI I/O• USB/BluetoothPros• Velocity-sensing keybed that makes it easy to add expression to your performance • USB powered but can also run for about 30 hours on just 2 AA batteries • Can connect to computer or mobile device via Bluetooth

Akai Professional MPK Mini MK III Limited Edition Black on Black 25-key Keyboard Controller

Great for mobile production and performance

This one’s for the goths — a black on black version of the Akai Professional MPK Mini MK III. Another ultra-compact controller, the MPK Mini MK III’s name translates to detailed functionality and concise control. Compatible with all mainstream DAWs, the MPK Mini MK III will keep you locked into music creation, thanks to its velocity-sensitive keys, eight MPC-style pads, eight assignable knobs, and four-way thumbstick. The MPK Mini MK III is USB bus powered, making connection to laptops and computers a breeze. Achieve expressive performances, get detailed with percussive elements, control arpeggiation, and work virtual instruments like you own them — all of this, and more, is here with the MPK Mini MK III.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductAkai Professional MPK Mini MK IIINumber of Keys25Type of KeysSynth Action, Mini-keysVelocity SensitiveYesPads8 x Backlit, Velocity-sensitive Performance PadsEncoders/Pots8 x Assignable KnobsMIDI I/OUSBPros• Blacked-out design looks sleek and stylish • Built-in arpeggiator that gives you synth features in a MIDI keyboard controller • Instant integration with your favorite DAW

Best Semi-weighted MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Nektar Impact LX88+ 88-key Keyboard Controller

Nektar DAW mapping for most popular DAWs

A full range of 88 semi-weighted keys awaits your musical endeavors with the Nektar Impact LX88+ controller. MIDI and USB connections set you up for success when connecting to your DAW of choice. The full-size, piano-style keys exhibit an even and dynamic response that caters well to those who play pianos or synths. Easily control parameters in DAWs and plug-ins through the Impact LX88+’s pitch bend and modulation wheels, faders, encoders, performance pads, and buttons. Your favorite settings can also be saved in the Impact LX88+’s five preset slots. Thanks to its Nektar DAW integration mapping, the Impact LX88+ was custom designed for many popular DAWs to make music creation simple, intuitive, and as lightning quick as the striking of your imagination. Grab an Impact LX88+ today, and you’ll find there’s even more to discover under the hood.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductNektar Impact LX88+Number of Keys88Type of KeysSemi-weightedVelocity SensitiveYesPads8 LED BacklitEncoders/Pots8MIDI I/OOut/USBPros• 88 keys that give you the feel of a real piano • Comes with Bitwig 8-Track DAW software • Performance pads, faders, and pots that offer plenty of hands-on control

Alesis VI25 25-key Keyboard Controller

Compact control of virtual instruments and beats

The Alesis VI25 is a fantastic merger of functionality, semi-weighted keys, and portability. These full-sized keys feature aftertouch so you can get nitty gritty with the details in your music. The VI25 may have an ultra-small footprint, but it offers 16 incredible velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads that’ll have you making incredible beats in no time. Plus, multicolor LEDs allow for color coding of the pads, so you always know exactly where you stand. Apart from that, you’ll have eight assignable knobs and 24 buttons for complete musical domination. Pitch and mod wheels, transport controls, and MIDI and USB connectivity make this controller a favorite among virtual instrument lovers and beat crafters alike.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductAlesis VI25Number of Keys25Type of KeysFull-size, Semi-weightedVelocity SensitiveYesPads16 x Blacklit, Velocity SensitiveEncoders/Pots8 x KnobsMIDI I/OOut/USBPros• USB and MIDI outputs to provide compatibility with all your gear • Loads of functionality in a compact and affordable unit • Comes with Ableton Live Lite

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Smart Keyboard Controller

Incredible integration with Native Instruments software

With the Komplete Kontrol S49 controller from Native Instruments, you’ll be amazed at the intricate and intuitive control it provides over major DAWs — not to mention its massive integration with Native Instruments software. With a Fatar keybed, dual high-resolution screens, pitch and mod wheels, a touch strip, and a four-directional push encoder, the Komplete Kontrol S49 outfits users with the playability and controls needed to navigate DAWs, use virtual instruments, and create with every ounce of inspiration. Scale mode, arpeggiator, multicolor Light Guide... This keyboard controller has it all. If you’re a fan of Native Instruments software, then you’ll be a fan of the supremely playable Komplete Kontrol S49.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductNative Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49Number of Keys49Type of KeysSemi-weighted Fatar KeybedVelocity SensitiveAdjustable, FixedPadsNoEncoders/Pots8 x Touch-sensitive knobs, 4-directional Push EncoderMIDI I/OIn/Out/USBPros• Comes with Komplete Select software bundle • Perfect integration with Komplete • Advanced control options and high-resolution displays to enhance your workflow  

Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII 61-key Keyboard Controller

Superb tactile control

Another offering from Arturia is the KeyLab 61 MkII. Its aluminum and wood construction makes a statement in any studio — whether home or pro — with the playability, versatility, and integration to match. Sensitive yet robust, the Pro-Feel action keybed on the KeyLab 61 MkII features aftertouch to achieve realistic and expressive sound. A slew of connections, including 5-pin MIDI I/O, four CV jacks, USB, and pedal inputs, set you up for success in digital environments or when the moment calls for traditional hardware analog synth gear. 16 velocity-sensitive performance pads enable percussive performance, while nine faders, nine rotary encoders, and a plethora of fully assignable buttons make work in any DAW a piece of cake.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductArturia KeyLab 61 MkIINumber of Keys61Type of KeysSemi-weightedVelocity SensitiveYesPads16 x Backlit, Velocity-sensitiveEncoders/Pots9MIDI I/OIn/Out/USBPros• Lightweight aluminum body sturdy enough to handle touring • Comes with a plethora of synth and keyboard sounds via Arturia’s Analog Lab bundle• Numerous pads, faders, and encoders that afford endless creative possibilities

Akai Professional MPK225 25-key Keyboard Controller

Compact beat and virtual instrument studio

Taking cues from their MPC line of workstations, the Akai Professional MPK225 controller maximizes MIDI rigs and music-making environments through an ultra-portable chassis. Eight MPC-style beat pads keep you on the path to percussive glory, while features like MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing, MPC Full Level, and an arpeggiator bring the inspirational fire in droves. Users have access to MIDI I/O, USB, and pedal connections to achieve quick and painless integration with most rigs. The MPK225 is plug-and-play compatible with Windows, Mac, and even iOS systems. Equipped with Akai Professional VIP3 (Virtual Instrument Player) software, the MPK225 offers users seamless integration from hardware to software.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductAkai Professional MPK225Number of Keys25Type of KeysSemi-weightedVelocity SensitivePressure and Velocity-sensitive PadsPads8Encoders/Pots8MIDI I/OIn/Out/USB/iOSPros• Compact controller great for small home and project studios • Assignable pads that let you make drums beats, trigger a sound effect, and much more • Semi-weighted keys that are a great middle ground for players who have never played a weighted keyboard/piano

Best Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controllers

Studiologic SL88 Studio 88-key Keyboard Controller

88 keys of expressive portability

A great studio primary controller, the Studiologic SL88 Studio kicks off the weighted controller section with a gorgeously playable keybed and a price tag that won’t break the bank. Ready for the studio or stage, the SL88 Studio packs together an aftertouch-enabled, hammer-action Fatar keybed and three X/Y stick controllers so users can tap into plenty of nuanced expression. A MIDI In and two MIDI Out ports, plus a range of expression pedal inputs, set you up to achieve realistic and detailed performance. Not a stranger to complex MIDI rigs, the SL88 Studio makes it easy to control multiple hardware keyboards as well as computer software from one master controller. Plus, the SL88 Studio can send and receive MIDI over its USB connection and can be powered from USB as well. Lastly, it only weighs around 30 pounds — a supremely portable weight for an 88-key, weighted keyboard controller.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductStudiologic SL88Number of Keys88Type of KeysWeighted, Real Piano Hammer-action KeysVelocity SensitiveYesPadsNoEncoders/PotsNoMIDI I/OOut/USBPros• Ideal gigging controller • Onboard display that gives you total access to all of the keyboard’s features with ease• TP/100LR premium hammer action that delivers authentic feel of acoustic grand piano

Kurzweil KM88 88-key Controller

Real Piano Hammer-action keys

For years, Kurzweil has been a tried and trusted brand at the hands of many pros, and the KM88 continues this legacy with 88 Real Piano Hammer-action keys. Seven velocity maps allow you to customize the keybed to your desired playability — which is great for studios where more than one person will be playing. This controller can run on USB bus power to remove extra cable tangle and features a 5-pin MIDI Out port. You can also access virtual controllers for the KM88 that expand your overall control via nine sliders, knobs, and switches per zone. Aside from this, the KM88 boasts four independent, customizable split zones, simple chord triggers, a programmable slider, an X/Y joystick, and six buttons. It all adds up to grand piano–like playability and unique customization opportunities.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductKurzweil KM88 88-key ControllerNumber of Keys88Type of KeysWeighted, Real Piano Hammer-action KeysVelocity SensitiveYesPadsNoEncoders/PotsNoMIDI I/OOut/USBPros• Comes with instant recall • Allows for key velocity adjustment to fit your playing style and needs • Value-packed unit  

Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII 88-key Weighted Keyboard Controller

Comprehensive digital and analog control

Apart from its striking appearance, the Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII controller offers many appointments that make it a quick favorite of serious pianists, beat makers, virtual instrument pros, and everyone in between. Arturia makes mapping the KeyLab 88 MkII’s vast controls simple, thanks to a MIDI control center — you can configure nine faders, nine encoders, 16 performance pads, and a plethora of buttons. You’ll have in-depth connection opportunities to expand your rig with CV/Gate, MIDI 5-pin DIN, and USB-MIDI connectivity. What’s more, the KeyLab 88 MkII comes equipped to work and immediately map to several of the most popular DAWs. And, of course, this controller packs together software like Analog Lab, Ableton Live Lite, Wurli V, and more to present you with a comprehensive controller that delivers diverse control along with delightful Fatar hammer-action key sensitivity.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductArturia KeyLab 88 MkIINumber of Keys88Type of KeysWeighted, Fatar TP/100LR KeybedVelocity SensitiveYesPads16 x Backlit, Velocity-sensitiveEncoders/Pots9 x Rotary EncodersMIDI I/OIn/Out/USBPros• An array of programmable controls • Fatar hammer-action keys that give this controller a real piano feel • Comes with Arturia’s synths and keyboard sounds

M-Audio Hammer 88 88-key Keyboard Controller

This one’s for the pianist

Another mighty 88-key controller, the M-Audio Hammer 88 brings the fire with USB, MIDI, and even iOS compatibility. These hammer-action, velocity-sensitive keys will help you capture all the nuances of your performances. Great for performers and producers, the Hammer 88 gets down to brass tacks with a simple outward design that brings together pitch and mod wheels, octave/transpose buttons, and a master volume fader. When it’s time to expand your rig, the Hammer 88 can send MIDI data to hardware synths, sound modules, and drum machines as well. Overall, the Hammer 88 makes an excellent choice for those dedicated pianists who need a clutter-free workstation. 

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductM-Audio Hammer 88Number of Keys88Type of KeysWeighted Hammer ActionVelocity SensitiveYesPadsNoEncoders/PotsNoMIDI I/OOut/USB/iOSPros• Simplicity of Hammer 88 great for advanced pianists who are looking for a high-quality MIDI keyboard • Super lightweight, making it great for live gigs • Powered by USB, so no power supply required

Roland A-88 MKII 88-key Keyboard Controller

Your central production controller

You can’t go wrong with a Roland, and the Roland A-88 MKII controller proves this point with the most in-depth functionality you’ll find on a MIDI controller. It starts with Roland’s PHA-4 keybed which features incredible sensitivity and response through a weighted escapement and keys with an ivory feel. A slew of MIDI, USB, and pedal connections means the A-88 MKII is easily integrated with popular DAWs and analog gear. DAW integration and functionality meet in the A-88 MKII’s eight assignable pads, eight assignable control knobs, octave up/down, three key zones, pitch/mod wheel, and so much more. With its incredible keybed, connectivity, and controllability, the A-88 MKII will quickly commandeer its spot as your central production controller.

Add to cart Add to listLearn More

ProductRoland A-88 MKIINumber of Keys88Type of KeysPHA-4 Fully Weighted Keybed with EscapementVelocity SensitiveYesPads8 x RGB PadsEncoders/Pots8 x Assignable KnobsMIDI I/OIn/Out/USB, MIDI 2.0 SupportPros• Incredible responsiveness • Great for keyboard players who are looking for that piano-like feel • Seamlessly integrates with the DAW of your choice

MIDI Keyboard Controller Buying Advice

How to Choose a MIDI Keyboard ControllerThe Ins and Outs (and Sometimes, Thrus) of a MIDI Keyboard ControllerWhat Is a Keyboard Controller?Faders, Buttons, and KnobsKey CountKeyboard Action TypesAftertouch — Do I Need It?I/O OptionsPerformance PadsKeytars and Wind ControllersChoosing the Best MIDI Keyboard Controller for You

How to Choose a MIDI Keyboard Controller

Using a MIDI controller can open a world of sonic possibilities. But how do you know which one best fits your needs? Don’t worry — Sweetwater is here to help! This Sweetwater Buying Guide includes information that can help you choose a MIDI keyboard controller. Of course, if you have specific questions not covered in this guide or the related content, then please reach out to one of our knowledgeable Sweetwater Sales Engineers at (800) 222-4700. They’re happy to help!

The Ins and Outs (and Sometimes, Thrus) of a MIDI Keyboard Controller

The technical jargon may seem confusing for people new to MIDI keyboard controllers or MIDI itself. Not to worry! In this guide, we will discuss the essential elements that are helpful to understand before selecting your MIDI keyboard controller.

What is MIDI? The Essential Guide

MIDI 2.0: What Actually Matters for Musicians

What is a Keyboard Controller?

In the 1980s, one of the original purposes of developing the MIDI specification was to allow live performers to control the sounds of multiple synthesizers from a single keyboard. That concept has been a smashing success! Today, live performers, songwriters with laptops, studio musicians, sound designers, and others can all benefit from MIDI’s flexibility.

A keyboard controller is a device with piano- or synth-style keys and, usually, a selection of knobs, buttons, and sliders that transmits MIDI data (including pitch, note-on/note-off, program change, continuous controller [CC], and so on) to external sound modules (synthesizers), computer software synthesizers, or a hardware or software sequencer. Most keyboard controllers have no internal sound-generating capability, but any MIDI-equipped keyboard synthesizer/workstation can control the sounds and parameters of other MIDI-equipped devices.

The real advantages of a keyboard controller are versatility and portability. They give you control over the entire range of modern music hardware and software while sometimes being compact enough to fit in your laptop computer bag.

Faders, Buttons, and Knobs

In addition to the piano-style keys found on keyboard controllers, many controllers also include a range of knobs, sliders, and buttons on their top panels. These are capable of transmitting MIDI data and can dramatically increase the hands-on control you have over your software or any module you have connected to your controller. Here’s a specific example: You have your controller plugged into your computer and your DAW of choice running with an instance of your favorite soft synth. The controller’s knobs, sliders, and modulation wheel give you hands-on, real-time control over tweaking the synth’s filter cutoff and resonance, amp envelope, and so forth. Physical controls provide a more “authentic hardware” feel than a mouse. Some controllers now include automapping technology that sets up the knobs and faders to correspond to your specific software applications.

Key Count

How much space do you have in your studio? Do you play two-handed? Do you want to be able to do keyboard splits? How important is portability — are you taking your controller on the road? Your answers to these questions will determine how many keys you’ll want on your controller. Controllers generally come with 25, 49, 61, or 88 keys and range in length anywhere from under 20 inches to over 50 inches. We also occasionally see models with 32, 37, 73, and 76 keys.

Keyboard Action Types

A vital quality of any keyboard controller is the keyboard action — how the key responds to playing. You need to feel comfortable using the controller, whether you’re live on stage or in your songwriting or recording studio. Don’t underestimate the impact that a “less-than-ideal” keyboard can have on your creativity and productivity! The type of action you prefer is determined chiefly by what you are accustomed to playing and the particular style of music you play, which may call for one type of action over another. You can choose from three basic keyboard action types:

Weighted Hammer Action

Many controllers have 88-note keyboards that replicate the mechanical action of a conventional piano keyboard. This is difficult to do because a controller has no strings or hammers. Manufacturers use different methods of applying weights and springs to mimic a piano’s action. Others add a hammer action to replicate an authentic piano “feel.” If your primary instrument is piano, or if you compose a lot of piano-oriented music, then the realism of a weighted hammer-action keyboard is likely ideal for you.

Semi-weighted Action

Similar to a weighted action but with less key resistance and a slightly springier release, semi-weighted actions are popular with many players. Try a semi-weighted keyboard if you don’t need a natural piano response but don’t care for spring-loaded synth actions.

Synth Action

A synth-action keyboard, on the other hand, feels more like an electronic organ. The spring-loaded keys are light and capable of being moved very quickly. They also tend to return to their resting positions more rapidly. This can be an advantage when playing speedy parts like lead lines or fast arpeggios. Synth-action keys are perfect for musicians who aren’t pianists, such as guitarists wanting to add MIDI functionality to their setup. Several manufacturers also make controllers with synth-action mini keys if you need an ultra-compact controller that slips into a backpack.

Aftertouch — Do I Need It?

Closely watch your favorite pro keyboardist lay down a synth lead line that ends in a bit of tasty vibrato. You may witness a finger leaning deeper into the key, providing the extra key pressure that triggers an aftertouch event. Aftertouch is a convenient, ergonomic way to add expressiveness to your playing. The alternative, of course, is commandeering your left hand to rock your controller’s pitch wheel or joystick (which is not possible if you’re using it to comp under your lead). Typically found on higher-end controllers, aftertouch is one of those features you only know you need once you’ve used it.

Aftertouch comes in two flavors: monophonic (channel aftertouch) and polyphonic. Channel aftertouch typically employs a “rail” that any key can pressure, sending an average MIDI value for all held keys. Polyphonic aftertouch lets you vary a parameter on each note independently based on the pressure on the key after the note is struck. Because it’s expensive to design and manufacture, generates a lot of MIDI information, and requires a certain dexterity on the player’s part to take full advantage of it, polyphonic aftertouch is found on relatively few keyboards.

I/O Options

While all modern controller keyboards transmit MIDI via USB, two other types of jacks can make your life easier for more complex setups. Conventional 5-pin MIDI DIN jacks on your controller let you connect and control external MIDI instruments, such as hardware synths. In contrast, CV and Gate outputs will even let you play and modulate vintage (non-MIDI) synth gear.

Almost all keyboard controllers are equipped with a sustain (switch-type) pedal jack, but basic models usually only offer one for a continuous controller pedal. Having an expression pedal in your rig can make your performances significantly more expressive, letting you modulate any controllable parameter in real time — all without taking your hands off the keys! Where higher-end keyboard controllers will typically allow you to assign a MIDI CC (continuous controller) number to the pedal jack, most inexpensive controllers’ jacks are preset to send either CC 7 (volume) or CC 11 (expression). So, if your keyboard has a fixed-CC volume pedal input and you’d like to sweep a filter that’s expecting to see CC 11, then you’ll have to reset the mapping of that parameter in your software (a simple task if your software has a “MIDI learn” mode).

Performance Pads

Some keyboardists have no problem using their black-and-whites for playing percussion. Others detest it, preferring the supple feel of velocity-sensing performance pads. Many of today’s keyboard controllers sport eight or more pads that you can use to play drums and trigger loops. Some pads even sense aftertouch. A bank of pads (along with knobs, faders, buttons, and LCD screens) takes up real estate on your keyboard’s top deck, making for a larger (and heavier) controller. So, you should get out the tape measure and factor your workspace into your decision.

Keytars and Wind Controllers

Some controllers go beyond the standard definition of “keyboard.” An excellent example is the so-called “keytar,” a strap-on device that allows live keyboardists the chance to step out from behind their rigs and claim some of the glory that normally gets lavished on guitar players.

Popular with hip-hop producers and remixers, pad devices allow samples to be triggered at the tap of a pad. They’re great for programming drumbeats.

Another device that abandons the “keyboard” concept entirely is the wind controller, which gives wind players access to MIDI sound modules and software.

Plays Well with Others – How to Sync Your MIDI Hardware

Choosing the Best MIDI Keyboard Controller for You

Now that we’ve discussed the things to look for and know about MIDI keyboard controllers, let’s talk about choosing the best MIDI keyboard controller for you! Not everything fits the same mold, and that’s the same for MIDI keyboard controllers. Your needs will differ whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced keyboardist.

Just so we don’t muddy the waters and recommend the same things for every player, we will separate MIDI keyboard controller needs based on your experience level.

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers for Beginners

What to look for:

Key count: 9–25Keyboard action type: Synth actionAftertouch: Up to youFaders, buttons, and knobs: Up to youI/O: USBPerformance pads: Yes

For beginners, we recommend a MIDI keyboard controller that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles; instead, it has the necessities to get you started and make the music you want to make. The number of keys and action type can be intimidating for beginners, so 9 to 25 keys and a comfortable synth-action type MIDI keyboard controller would be perfect for someone just starting. Performance pads would also be an excellent addition for triggering drum samples, sounds, and effects. And lastly, USB and Bluetooth are the most accessible I/O options, so we recommend that for beginners.

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers for Intermediate Players

What to look for:

Key count: 32–49Keyboard action type: Synth action, semi-weighted, or weightedAftertouch: YesFaders, buttons, and knobs: YesI/O: USB or MIDI In/OutPerformance pads: Yes

For intermediate players, you get the best of both worlds. The sky’s the limit on what you can get because it depends on what you are looking for. There are plenty of MIDI keyboard controllers that upgrade beginner models and offer more features and controls. Likewise, there are plenty of options if you are looking for a keyboard with a piano feel rather than synth action. We recommend you only go for the full 88-key keyboard if necessary. Those models are massive and are more for the professional studio or gigging musician than the intermediate player.

Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers for Advanced Players

What to look for:

Key count: 61+Keyboard action type: WeightedAftertouch: YesFaders, buttons, and knobs: Up to youI/O: USB or MIDI In/Out/ThruPerformance pads: Up to you

If you’re an advanced player trained on acoustic piano, then you’re probably looking for a MIDI keyboard controller that is as close to a piano as possible. Luckily for you, Sweetwater carries many models with a piano-like feel with weighted keys that still provide a plethora of controls and faders to tweak sounds to your heart’s desire. You’re also probably a gigging musician or have a professional or project studio that you work in and need to have a MIDI keyboard controller that fits all your needs, including a full-size keyboard, faders, and knobs for tweaking, as well as the ability to set up keyboard splits for playing more than one instrument at a time.

What Are You Waiting for? Get Started with a New MIDI Keyboard Controller Today!

So, what are you waiting for? There’s never been a better time to buy a MIDI keyboard controller. In fact, there’s never a wrong time to buy a MIDI keyboard controller! Shop synth-action, semi-weighted, and weighted MIDI keyboard controllers at Sweetwater, or reach out to your Sweetwater Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700 to get started today!
The post Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers — Winter 2023 appeared first on inSync.