Are you trying to find default midi keyboard controllers among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling default midi keyboard controllers on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 15 hours of research and did 89 default midi keyboard controllers tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best default midi keyboard controllers you can buy today
- Expressive performance MIDI controller keyboard with 88 premium piano style semi-weighted keys + aftertouch, pitch bend and modulation wheels + octave & transpose buttons + sustain & expression pedal sockets + MIDI 5-pin Out.
- Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs + Nektarine PlugIn Control for Instruments and Effects
- Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
- Mac and PC compatible
- Includes Cubase LE DAW + Retrologue 2 VSTi + sound content package
- High quality MIDI controller keyboard designed for performers and producers wanting tactile instrument control. 88 semi-weighted full-size synth-action velocity-sensitive keys, 8 back-lit hyper-sensitive drum pads, 9 faders, 8 knobs, 6 transport buttons, pitch bend, modulation + octave & transpose buttons + sustain pedal socket.
- Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs with Mixer and Instrument modes
- Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
- Mac, PC and iOS Compatible
- Includes Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package
- Low-profile, 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard, ideal for use with laptop and netbook computers
- Advanced-design keyed offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys
- Sustain button – ideal for entering piano parts!
- Music Production and Beat Maker Essential -USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
- Total Control of your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat and Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual synthesizer / DAW controls
- Complete Command of your Virtual Instruments and FX - 8 360-degree knobs assign to all your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls and more
- 1500+ Sounds and Everything You Need for Pro Production -Complete Music Production Starter Kit including MPC Beats, 3 Virtual Instruments and 2GB of sound content
- Customize your MPK Mini MK3 - Download the Editor and learn how to manually map the knobs and joystick, adjust the keyboard and arpeggiator, store your own programs, and more
- 32-note velocity sensitive mid-size key keyboard. Pitch Wheel. Modulation Wheel. Octave Buttons(Up & Down). Transpose Buttons(Up & Down).
- Sustain Switch interface (sustain pedal does not include). USB B type: USB connect to Computer
- Attachment Type: USB cable
- Country of origin : Taiwan
- Ultimate Expression - 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys provide a natural feel that captures every subtle nuance of your performance
- Total Control - Volume fader, transport and directional buttons for easy control of your software, plus ergonomically-designed pitch and modulation wheels, Octave up and down buttons and sustain pedal input for expressive performances
- Immediate Creativity - Easy plug-and-play connection to your Mac or PC—no drivers or power supply required; compatible with iOS devices via the Apple to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately)
- Your Studio Centrepiece - Compact design fits any desk, studio or stage setup perfectly and advanced functionality customizes your controls for your recording software
- Premium Software suite included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Velvet, XPand2, Mini Grand, and Touch Loops
- 【Powerful keyboard】 Songwriters and Beat Maker Essential - USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production.
- 【Wireless keyboard】It's very compact and portable, and you can connect it wirelessly to your device with Bluetooth, built-in 2,000 mAh battery can work for about 16 hours, you can easily slip this ultra-portable MIDI keyboard into almost any bag and take it with you to the studio, cafe or hotel to compose music.
- 【Music Production】 25 velocity-sensitive keys, 8 RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads, 8 assignable rotary enconders, 2 Capactive touch stripes pitch bend to all your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls and more.
- 【Smart keyboard】Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Android and iOS，The K5 compatible with all digital audio worksstation, Ableton live，Fl Studio，Cubase，Logic Pro X，Bitwig，Reason，Studio One，GarageBand(iOS) etc.,
- 【Scale feature】Integrate the smart chord and smart sound function, users can choose quickly through the keys. very suitable for setting this function during performance and practice.30 days money back and one year warranty.
- Full Creative Control - A dynamic 37-Key MPK Mini keybed for 3 full octaves of melodic and harmonic performance; Easily connect to your DAW or studio equipment with the USB-powered MIDI Controller
- Advanced Connectivity - Connect to different sound sources with CV/Gate and MIDI I/O; Control modular gear, sound modules, synthesizers, and more to bring new sound sources into your music production
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- Record and Compose Without a Computer - Connect to your production station and use the built-in 64-step sequencer featuring one track for drums and one for melodies or chords, with up to 8 notes each
- Control Your DAW - Transport section for intuitive hardware control of your DAW; Arm and start recordings, stop playback, rewind or fast-forward for easy navigation of large sessions and projects
- Handle Any Style Or Genre - 8 premium RGB MPC Pads with responsive feel and durable construction for dynamic performance and music creation; Use the Chords and Scales modes to simplify and enhance your performance
- Complete Command Of Your Productions - 8 assignable rotary knobs for tactile control of your DAW; Dial in EQ, adjust volume, or write automation with the endless rotary knobs to mix your songs
- MPC Beats Software Included - Based on the iconic MPC hardware, MPC Beats features thousands of drum samples and plugin instrument presets for powerful, inspired beat making and music creation
- Get a Full Month of Splice - Unlock the ultimate sample library, now included with your purchase of any MPK or MPC; Register your product and redeem 30 days of access to Splice Creator plan
- All the features and expressive control you need to start making music with your computer, and at a price that delivers amazing value for money
- Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs
- Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
- Mac, PC and iOS Compatible
- Includes Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package
- Compact yet powerful standalone mini keyboard with built-in speaker and USB MIDI Controller capabilities for beat makers, songwriters and musicians
- 25-Key Gen 2 MPK Mini dynamic keybed, OLED Display, 8 Velocity sensitive backlit MPC drum pads, arpeggiator and note repeat, plus 4 encoder knobs deliver a professional, versatile performance
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- Over 100 internal drum and instrument sounds including acoustic and electric pianos, synth leads, pads and more
- Take MPK Mini Play MK3 on the go and power up with batteries (not included), or connect to USB Mains Plug
- Includes MPC Beats and MPC expansion packs plus software instruments Hype, AIR Essential Keyboards and Electric from AIR Music Tech for limitless creativity
- Melodics educational software download included with 60 free lessons and plug and play support for instruction on MIDI keyboards, pad controllers and e-drums
- Get a Full Month of Splice - Unlock the ultimate sample library, now included with your purchase of any MPK or MPC; Register your product and redeem 30 days of access to Splice Creator plan
- Mini Keys, Major Performance - 25-key MIDI controller keyboard with responsive keys to play with feel and dynamics. Enjoy expressive songwriting, composing, jamming, playing melodies, bass lines, and more
- Full Range Experience - Play every note with ease. Use the dedicated octave up and down buttons to transpose the range of your software instruments plus a sustain button for expressive performances
- Feature Packed - Use the built-in arpeggiator and clock for creative control of any of your sound sources like software instruments, synthesizers, or USB-enabled modular gear, all by one USB cable
- Customized Production - With 8 programmable preset slots you can instantly recall your mappings for DAWs, virtual instruments, and more. Create, edit, and manage all your presets from the computer
- Versatile Performance - The USB Studio MIDI controller is perfect for your songwriting, beat-making, and DJ remixes whenever you're inspired. The sleek design fits alongside your studio equipment
- Effortless Setup - With USB power and plug-and-play compatiblity for Mac or PC, LPK25 has a simple setup process. Spend less time configuring and more time writing music wherever you create music
- Universal Compatibility - Works with all popular applications including GarageBand, Logic, Studio One, Cubase, Ableton Live, ProTools, Reason, FL Studio, Digital Performer, Adobe Audition, and more
- English (Publication Language)
- MIDI Keyboard Essentials - 32 velocity-sensitive, semi weighted keys for playing virtual sampler instruments and virtual synthesizer plugins
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - M-AUDIO and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the Oxygen series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your Oxygen keyboard
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles; Beats, Band, or Electronic
- Beat Maker Mainstays - 8 RGB backlit MIDI assignable velocity sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering and more
- Total Command of Your Music Production - 4 assignable knobs, buttons and faders for tactile MIDI control of virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAW controls and more
- Every Tool You Need - Effortless auto-mapping for DAW controls and plugin parameters; Smart Chord and Smart Scale modes; Arpeggiator; pitch and modulation wheels; sustain pedal input; 1/8" (3.5mm) MIDI Output
- Complete software production package Included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech and Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs
- Follow the included download card to visit the M-AUDIO website and obtain all supplied software and firmware updates
- 【TIPS】The DMK 25 Pro MIDI keyboard is not like a piano keyboard. It does not produce sound on its own and needs to be connected to a mobile phone or computer's DAW software for use. ( 4 types of DAW software are provided)
- 【Smart Dynamic Scale Mode】You can play essential bass lines, melodies, and leads with ease thanks to the intelligent dynamic scale mode of DMK 25 Pro midi controller. The 16-scale tones enable you to switch between many musical genres
- 【Real-time Multi-Mode Control】DMK-25 Pro USB MIDI controller unleashes creativity with arpeggio, note repeat, & chord functions. Craft music clips anytime, anywhere. Enhance performance joy & explore endless playability
- 【Compatible with PC & Mobile Devices】DMK 25 PRO mini midi comes with a USB-C adapter. Before use, make sure the OTG adapter is compatible with the interface of your mobile device. If your interface is others(Micro USB, Lighting etc.), please purchase separately
- 【Personalized Touch Bar with Light Scale】Your composition is easier using Pitch/ Mod touch mode. Even at home, the touch bar with a light scale gives you the impression that you are on stage
- 【40 Keyboard-Teaching Courses】We've crafted beginner to advanced keyboard courses, perfect for music arrangement novices. 40 engaging lessons cover all arrangement essentials. Time to unleash your creativity
- 【Compatible with various DAW】Compatible with various DAWs like Cubase LE, Live, Logic Pro, Protools, Studio One, etc. Donner MIDI keyboard offers a full music production experience for your creations. Get your software from customer service
- 【Innovative Wheels】4 innovative wheels for greater visual control and comfort when turning, custom mapping to allocate the information you need to control, and 6 transport controllers to improve arrangement efficiency
- 88-Key MIDI Controller
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- 【Compact Design with 25 Mini Velocity-Sensitive Keys】The portable N-25 midi keyboard controller, made up of 25 scaled-down velocity-sensitive keys, is a perfect companion for you to create melodies and riffs full of emotion
- 【Simple Layout and User-Friendly Functions】Donner N-25 mini MIDI: beginner-friendly, 4 user programmable banks, & essential tools like arpeggiator, sustain, octave, tap tempo for musicians with limited music theory background
- 【Mac, iOS, PC/iPhone/iPad Compatible】Just plug and play with Mac/PC via USB-MIDI, no extra drivers needed. Also, easily connect your MIDI controller to smartphone music apps with an OTG adapter
- 【Multifunctional Pitch-Bend Wheel & Cool Light-up Buttons】The pitch-bend function ensures a rich and expressive timbre. In addition, the light-up button will provide you a fun visual display of your playing
- 【40 Entertaining Keyboard-Teaching Courses】We've crafted beginner to advanced keyboard courses, perfect for music arrangement novices. 40 engaging lessons cover all arrangement essentials. Time to unleash your creativity
- 【Compatible with various DAW】Compatible with various DAWs like Cubase LE, Live, Logic Pro, Protools, Studio One, etc. Donner MIDI keyboard offers a full music production experience for your creations. Get your software from customer service
- Total Control - Ableton Live USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with built-in 25-note synthesizer keyboard and dedicated octave up and down buttons to increase the keyboard to the full melodic range
- Ableton Live Lite Included - An industry-leading DAW for PC & Mac. Capture ideas, live performances, record, mix and unleash your creativity. APC Key 25 MK2 is pre-mapped for 1-to-1 integration with Ableton 11.2.7 onwards
- Bright 5x8 RGB Pad Matrix - 40 RGB pads for launching clips in Ableton Live providing visual color feedback. Trigger everything from Loops, Vocals, and melodic samples for instant creativity
- 25 Responsive Mini Keys - 2 Octaves of velocity-sensitive keys for powerful live performance and studio composition using software plugins. Play chords, basslines, synth leads and other studio equipment
- 8 Assignable Rotary Knobs - Dial in volume or pan, insert sends for effects, and automation for all track types using the 360 knob controls. Use Device mode for direct control of your Ableton macros
- 4 Directional Arrow Buttons - Move around large groups of clips. Go left and right to scroll through tracks or up and down to scroll through scenes to access your loops, samples, and sounds instantly
- Instant Connectivity - APC Key 25 MK2 is powered over USB and supports plug-and-play connectivity, for seamless integration from the studio to the stage for Mac and PC, no batteries or power adapters needed
- DAW Integration - Comprehensive virtual instrument pack including Hybrid 3 - powerful polyphonic analog synth, Mini Grand - acoustic piano instrument, and Velvet — vintage electric piano instrument
- English (Publication Language)
- 88-key hammer action TP/100LR keyboard with After touch
- Compact, lightweight, extremely portable professional controller
- 3 default velocity curves and fixed curve with a programmable value; 6 editable user velocity curves
- Razor-sharp color graphic LCD-TFT display with 320 x 240 resolution; 3 XY stick controllers for real-time control; powerful new software editor
- Magnetic rail system works with Studio logic Magnetic Computer Plate and Magnetic Music Stand (each sold separately)
- 🎹【Premium MIDI Keyboard Controller】: Explore precise control and seamless integration with your music production setup with this advanced 25-key MIDI keyboard, featuring standard keys including black keys for enhanced versatility.
- 🎹【Enhanced Performance Features】: Dive into creative possibilities with half-step transpose, ARP auto accompaniment, and customizable drum pad settings ranging from 0 to 127, ensuring dynamic and expressive performances with this MIDI keyboard.
- 🎹【Intuitive Control Interface】: Take command of your music with 8 customizable pads (PAD1-PAD8) and 8 programmable controllers (Controller1-Controller8) on this MIDI keyboard, allowing you to tailor your sound and performance to your preferences.
- 🎹【Advanced Functionality and Connectivity】: Experience convenience with built-in features such as velocity-sensitive keys, OLED screen display, sustain pedal interface, and Bluetooth MIDI connectivity, offering flexibility and versatility for all your musical needs with this MIDI keyboard.
- 🎹【Versatile Power Options】: Stay powered up wherever you go with multiple power options including external USB 5V/1A power and a built-in 3.7V 500mAh lithium battery, ensuring uninterrupted creativity whether you're in the studio or on the move with this MIDI keyboard.
- 49 full-size semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys
- 9 Sliders, 8 Knobs
- Seamless DAW integration
- Mini mixing console and transport
- Full MIDI control for instruments and plugins
- Responsive keys with aftertouch
- Pitch and modulation wheels
- Integrated touchpad for computer control
- Arpeggiator, Smart Scale, Transpose/Octave Shift
- Cubase LE Software included
- Low-profile, 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard, ideal for use with laptop and netbook computers
- Advanced-design keyed offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys
- Sustain button – ideal for entering piano parts!
How to choose a good default midi keyboard controllers
Does the idea of finding a fantastic default midi keyboard controllers make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in default midi keyboard controllers. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top default midi keyboard controllers products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top default midi keyboard controllers on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top default midi keyboard controllers brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top default midi keyboard controllers based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the default midi keyboard controllers were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good default midi keyboard controllers, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your default midi keyboard controllers.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting default midi keyboard controllers for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our default midi keyboard controllers. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what default midi keyboard controllers should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on default midi keyboard controllers.
