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What’s up guys! Zach with yet another blog post! This one is obviously going to take a look at some of the best MIDI keyboards of 2024. With music tech only getting more and more affordable, there are tons of great MIDI controllers out there that dont break the budget. “Whats the best MIDI controller is a question I have gotten enough to where I think its worth writing about it. So here we go
“What MIDI keyboard should I get?” A timeless question for composers and producers alike. When it comes to making music, choosing the right MIDI keyboard can significantly impact your creative process. MIDI keyboards vary greatly in size, features, and feel, so it’s essential to find one that matches your needs. In this post, we’ll compare some of the most popular MIDI keyboards and explain what to consider when making your choice.
What to Consider When Choosing a MIDI Keyboard
Key Feel: One of the most important factors is the feel of the keys. Ask yourself, “What kind of feel are you wanting from your keys? A realistic weighted feel, something more spongey or like you’re typing on a keyboard?” Weighted keys simulate the feel of a traditional piano, offering resistance and a more dynamic playing experience. In contrast, semi-weighted or synth-action keys are lighter and easier to press. I would definitely recommend something with synth action if you mostly plan on staying within an octave or two/ are planning on mostly using it to write leads and bass lines separately. If you are someone who is an accomplished or even intermediate pianist and plan on using a larger format keyboard you will probably be much more comfortable with a more realistic feel when playing
Size and Portability: MIDI keyboards range from very compact, to 88-key models, which are more suited for a full piano experience and definitely not compact. So you will definitely want to consider your application and whether you need something travel friendly or a larger keyboard for a complete range of notes.
Features: Look for additional features like drum pads, faders, knobs, and aftertouch. These can greatly expand your creative possibilities and workflow. This rings true especially for EDM. Being able to record the effect of twisting a knob vs just writing in the midi information is WAY more fun and immersive and just give you more control at the end of the day.
Included Software/goodies: Something that can help be the tipping point for you is what software or other goodies is included? Part of why I was so excited for my Arturia Keylab Essential 88 was it came with Arturia’s Analog lab which is an awesome suite of various synths, pianos and other instruments.
Compatibility: Ensure the keyboard is compatible with your digital audio workstation (DAW) and any other software or hardware you plan to use. This is generally not an issue but can definitely cause a slow down in the excitement of getting a new piece of gear. It took me an hour or two to get my Arturia talking to REAPER. I ended up reaching out to support,which was great by the way, and the helped me get my issue resolved. If I remember right it was a driver issue. Once it was identified, everything was working the way it should.
Top 5 MIDI Keyboards of 2024
Now for the main event, Here are five of the most popular MIDI keyboards, along with their pros and cons:
Pro: Compact and portable, with a wealth of controls including pads, knobs, and a built-in arpeggiator. Ideal for beginners and those on the go.
Con: Small keys and the lack of weighted keys may not satisfy players looking for a realistic piano feel.
Akai has been a strong player in the compact MIDI game for a while. Great prices and great features!
Pro: High-quality build with semi-weighted keys, aftertouch, and plenty of controls. Excellent integration with Arturia’s software suite.
Con: More expensive, and the semi-weighted keys might not be heavy enough for those used to a traditional piano.
Not very portable but you cant go wrong with Arturia. The pads are great, the keys feel great!
Pro: Seamless integration with Ableton Live, with a good balance of keys and pads. The 61 keys provide a wide range for playing.
Con: The build quality is somewhat plastic, and the synth-action keys might feel too light for some users.
This may noy be an issue with Novation now, but I had an OG Launchkey mini and could never get all the pads to work properly. It seemed like it only wanted to work in Ableton.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 Mk3
Pro: Fully weighted hammer-action keys offer a realistic piano feel. Perfect for serious pianists and producers who want premium quality.
Con: Expensive and large, making it less portable and more suited for studio use.
Being the biggers on our list, and most expensive, this is definitely not a MIDI you would want to transport but the feel of full weighted keys is unmatched. This also comes with Kontakt 7 which at the time of this writing, retails for $299!
Pro: Affordable, with a straightforward design. Great for beginners who need basic MIDI functionality without the extra frills.
Con: Lacks advanced features like drum pads or aftertouch, and the keys are not weighted.
M-Audio does a great job at making affordable gear that has what you need. If you don’t need all the pads, knobs or faders, this is a fantastically affordable option.
Conclusion
Choosing the right MIDI keyboard really comes down to understanding your needs and preferences. Like do you plan on wanting to work on music on the go? Or do you want to be able to set it and forget it and keep your keyboard stationary? Some questions I always ask myself when looking at new gear are:
How much is it?
Where am I going to play it (at home or in the wild)
How do I want it to feel?
What free stuff do I get for buying this?
Does the instrument inspire me?
If you can confidently answer these questions when looking at any new piece of equipment, you will more than likely be happy. Of course do research and make sure what you’re looking at will check the boxes for you but ask yourself what you’re looking for before you make a decision.