The Best MIDI Keyboards for Music Producers in 2024
Your Ultimate Guide
10/19/20246 min read
4. Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3: Best for Ableton Live Users
The Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3 is an excellent MIDI controller for Ableton Live users, offering deep integration and intuitive features that make it perfect for in-the-box producers. This controller strikes a balance between functionality and affordability, making it a popular choice for intermediate and advanced users.
Key Features:
37 velocity-sensitive keys.
16 RGB pads, perfect for triggering samples, loops, and beats in Ableton Live.
8 rotary knobs for controlling synth parameters or mixing.
Dedicated buttons for clip launching, quantizing, and recording in Ableton Live.
Includes Ableton Live Lite and access to Novation’s Sound Collective.
Pros:
Perfect integration with Ableton Live, making it easy to produce and perform in real time.
Lightweight and compact, yet still offering a great amount of functionality.
Affordable price for intermediate users.
Cons:
While it works best with Ableton Live, users of other DAWs might not experience the same level of integration.
Fewer keys than larger models, which may limit expressive playing for some.
Use Case:
If you’re a dedicated Ableton Live user looking for a controller that meshes seamlessly with your DAW, the Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3 is a fantastic choice. It provides all the necessary controls for live performance and music production within Ableton.
Boost your Ableton Live performance with the Novation Launchkey 37 Mk3. Buy it here.
5. M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3: Best Full-Size Keyboard for Piano Players
The M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3 is a full-sized, 88-key MIDI controller that is ideal for producers who want the feel of a piano in their production setup. Whether you’re a classical pianist or a producer working on orchestral arrangements, this keyboard offers a realistic keybed without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
88 full-sized, semi-weighted keys with velocity sensitivity.
Pitch bend and modulation wheels for expressive performance.
Transport controls to play, pause, and record directly from the keyboard.
Assignable buttons for custom control.
Plug-and-play USB connection, no drivers needed.
Pros:
Full-size keyboard makes it perfect for piano players and those working on orchestral scores.
Affordable price for an 88-key MIDI controller.
Simple, straightforward design that gets the job done without unnecessary bells and whistles.
Cons:
Lacks pads, knobs, and faders, making it less suitable for beat makers or those who need more control over their DAW.
Keys are semi-weighted, so they may not feel as authentic to pianists used to fully weighted keys.
Use Case:
If you’re a pianist or a music producer who needs a realistic keybed for classical, jazz, or orchestral compositions, the M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3 is one of the most budget-friendly full-sized MIDI keyboards on the market.
Create beautiful melodies with the M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3. Buy it here.
Conclusion: Which MIDI Keyboard Is Right for You?
Choosing the best MIDI keyboard depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of music you produce. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a portable option like the Akai MPK Mini Mk3, a professional who needs advanced control with the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII, or a pianist requiring full-size keys with the M-Audio Keystation 88 Mk3, there's a perfect MIDI keyboard out there for you.
By selecting the right keyboard, you can significantly improve your workflow, gain more control over your DAW, and create music more efficiently. Ready to add one of these powerful tools to your studio?
Check out our recommendations above and make your purchase today!
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If you're a music producer, you know that having the right tools can make all the difference in your creative process. One of the most essential pieces of equipment in any producer’s setup is a MIDI keyboard. Whether you're composing melodies, programming drums, or controlling your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), a good MIDI keyboard is a must-have tool for translating ideas into music. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the best MIDI keyboards for music producers in 2024. We’ll cover the pros and cons, key features, and examples of how each MIDI keyboard can enhance your production process. Plus, if you're looking to level up your home studio, we’ll share affiliate links so you can easily grab the gear that fits your needs.
Why MIDI Keyboards Are Essential for Music Production
MIDI keyboards are more than just keyboards—they’re your gateway to creating music using virtual instruments, controlling parameters in your DAW, and giving life to your musical ideas. Here's what makes them essential:
Creative Flexibility: Whether you're playing piano chords or triggering synth sounds, MIDI keyboards let you control any virtual instrument in your DAW with ease.
Time-Saving Workflow: Many MIDI keyboards come with pads, knobs, and sliders that allow you to tweak effects, adjust volume, and even automate settings directly from the keyboard.
Intuitive Composition: For producers who want hands-on control of their melodies and beats, a MIDI keyboard provides tactile feedback that makes creating music more intuitive than using just a mouse and keyboard.
Now, let’s look at the best MIDI keyboards for 2024 to help you choose the right one for your production workflow.
1. Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk3: Best Portable Option
The Akai MPK Mini Mk3 is perfect for producers on the go or those working in smaller home studios. Despite its compact size, it packs a punch with features that cater to beginners and advanced producers alike.
Key Features:
25 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing.
8 backlit MPC-style drum pads, perfect for programming beats.
Assignable knobs for controlling effects, volume, and panning in your DAW.
Built-in arpeggiator and note repeat functions for creative sequencing.
Comes with MPC Beats DAW and a collection of virtual instruments and samples.
Pros:
Extremely compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
Drum pads are great for beat makers who want that classic Akai feel.
Affordable pricing for producers on a budget.
Cons:
Limited number of keys may not suit pianists or producers who need more range.
Lacks pitch and mod wheels, which might be important for those used to expressive controls.
Use Case:
If you’re a beginner looking for a budget-friendly, portable solution or a seasoned producer who needs a compact MIDI controller to take on the road, the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 is a solid choice.
Grab the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 and start making beats on the go. Buy it here.
2. Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII: Best for Advanced Users
The Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII is a powerhouse MIDI controller that combines performance and production tools for advanced users. With 61 semi-weighted keys, it's perfect for producers who need a high level of control over their DAW and virtual instruments.
Key Features:
61 keys with aftertouch for expressive play.
16 RGB performance pads, great for launching clips, programming drums, or triggering effects.
9 faders and 9 rotary knobs to adjust parameters like volume, panning, and effects.
Full DAW integration with software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, and more.
Comes with Analog Lab V, which gives you access to over 6,000 classic synth and keyboard sounds.
Pros:
Highly versatile with a wide range of controls for customizing your workflow.
High-quality build with a metal chassis and wood sides.
Excellent for synth and piano players who need a larger keybed.
Tight integration with Arturia's software for instant access to vintage sounds.
Cons:
More expensive compared to entry-level models.
Its size may not be ideal for producers with limited desk space.
Use Case:
If you’re a professional or advanced user looking for a high-performance MIDI controller that offers deep DAW integration and studio-level control, the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII should be at the top of your list.
Ready for studio-quality control? Check out the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII. Buy it here.
3. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2: Best for Sound Design
For music producers who heavily rely on Native Instruments’ vast ecosystem of virtual instruments and effects, the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 is the perfect companion. It offers an intuitive interface that allows you to browse, control, and tweak NI instruments like a pro.
Key Features:
49 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch.
Two high-res color screens for browsing and previewing sounds from Komplete and NKS libraries.
8 touch-sensitive knobs for sound sculpting.
Full DAW control with advanced integration for Logic, Ableton, and more.
Includes Komplete Select: a collection of high-quality sounds, synths, and effects.
Pros:
Seamless integration with Komplete and NKS-compatible plugins.
Visual feedback through its color displays helps streamline sound selection and adjustments.
Excellent for sound designers and those who work heavily with virtual instruments.
Cons:
Price point may be higher for beginners.
Limited to Native Instruments ecosystem for optimal functionality.
Use Case:
If you’re a music producer who loves sound design or already uses Native Instruments’ software suite, the Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2 will supercharge your workflow by offering seamless control over your sound libraries and virtual instruments.
Want to master your sounds? Get the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 Mk2. Buy it here.