Do you dream of making your own music but feel like your space is too small? Maybe you’ve seen cool keyboard setups online and wished you could have one too. But then you look at all the different kinds of keyboards, and it gets confusing. It’s tough to know which small MIDI keyboard is the best one for you, right?
Choosing the right small MIDI keyboard can feel like a puzzle. There are so many brands, sizes, and features to think about. You want one that fits your desk, your budget, and your music ideas. But with so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. You might worry about buying the wrong one and not being able to make the music you want.
Don’t worry! This blog post is here to help. We’ll break down what makes a great small MIDI keyboard and what you should look for. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about picking the perfect keyboard. Get ready to unlock your musical creativity, no matter how much space you have!
Our Top 5 Small Midi Keyboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Small Midi Keyboard Detailed Reviews
1. Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3-25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 8 Backlit Drum Pads
Rating: 8.9/10
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to dive into music production or take their beat-making to the next level. This compact USB MIDI controller packs a punch with its 25 velocity-sensitive keys, making it perfect for creating melodies and basslines. It also features 8 backlit MPC-style drum pads that feel great for tapping out rhythms and triggering samples. Plus, with its built-in arpeggiator and dedicated knobs, you have a lot of control over your sound right at your fingertips.
What We Like:
- The 25 mini keys are velocity-sensitive, so you can play with expression.
- The 8 backlit MPC-style drum pads are great for making beats and launching sounds.
- The 4-way thumbstick offers fun control over pitch and modulation.
- Native Instruments (NKS) integration means you can control their software directly from the MPK Mini.
- It comes with MPC Beats software and over 1500 sounds to get you started.
- You also get two months of Splice, giving you access to a huge library of samples.
What Could Be Improved:
- The mini keys might feel a bit small for players used to full-sized keyboards.
- While it’s great for beginners, more advanced producers might want more hands-on controls.
Overall, the Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a powerful and affordable way to start making music. It offers a lot of features for its size and price point.
2. Akai Professional LPK25 – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 25 Responsive Synth Keys for Mac and PC
Rating: 8.7/10
The Akai Professional LPK25 is a compact USB MIDI keyboard controller. It boasts 25 responsive synth keys, perfect for making music on your Mac or PC. It even includes an arpeggiator and comes with music production software. This black keyboard is designed for musicians on the go.
What We Like:
- The 25 mini keys are responsive. They let you play with feeling and dynamics.
- You can easily change the note range with octave up and down buttons.
- A sustain button adds expression to your playing.
- The built-in arpeggiator sparks creativity.
- It has 8 programmable preset slots for quick access to your settings.
- Setup is super easy with plug-and-play for Mac and PC.
- It works with many popular music programs like Ableton Live and GarageBand.
- Its sleek design looks great in any studio setup.
What Could Be Improved:
- The mini keys might feel a little small for players with larger hands.
- While versatile, it lacks some advanced features found on larger controllers.
The Akai LPK25 is a fantastic tool for anyone wanting to create music anywhere. Its portability and ease of use make it a great choice for beginners and experienced producers alike.
3. Donner Mini MIDI Keyboard
Rating: 9.0/10
Unleash your inner musician with the Donner N-25 Mini MIDI Keyboard! This compact controller is designed for beginners and experienced players alike, offering a fun and accessible way to dive into music production. Its small size makes it easy to take anywhere, and its simple design makes it a breeze to learn.
What We Like:
- Compact and Portable: The N-25 is super small, so you can carry it wherever inspiration strikes.
- Expressive Playing: The 25 mini keys are sensitive to how hard you press them, letting you play with lots of feeling.
- Easy for Beginners: With a simple layout and helpful tools like an arpeggiator and sustain, even if you don’t know much music theory, you can start making music quickly.
- Works with Many Devices: You can plug it into your computer, phone, or tablet using USB or an OTG adapter.
- Fun Visuals: The cool light-up buttons add a fun visual element to your playing.
- Learn with 40 Courses: The included 40 teaching courses will guide you from the basics to more advanced music arrangement techniques.
- Compatible with Popular Software: This keyboard works with many music-making programs like Cubase LE and Logic Pro.
What Could Be Improved:
- Mini Keys: For those with larger hands, the mini keys might feel a little cramped.
- Software Included: You need to contact customer service to get the included software, which isn’t as straightforward as having it ready to go.
The Donner N-25 is a fantastic starting point for anyone wanting to explore music production. Its user-friendly features and included learning resources make it a great value.
4. Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3-25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads
Rating: 9.4/10
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to dive into music production or level up their existing setup. This compact USB MIDI keyboard controller packs a punch with its 25 velocity-sensitive keys, perfect for playing melodies and chords. It also features 8 backlit drum pads that feel just like those found on Akai’s legendary MPC samplers. Plus, you get 8 assignable knobs to control your virtual instruments and effects, giving you hands-on command over your sound.
What We Like:
- It’s a music production and beat maker essential, making it easy to create music on your computer.
- You get total control of your production with a cool 4-way thumbstick for pitch and modulation, and a built-in arpeggiator.
- It has Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration, so you can control Native Instruments software directly from the MPK Mini.
- You get to choose a free Native Instruments sound bundle (Beats, Band, or Electronic) to get you started.
- The MPC Experience is real with 8 MPC-style drum pads that are great for making beats and triggering sounds.
- It offers complete command of your virtual instruments and FX with 8 assignable knobs.
- You get over 1500 sounds and everything you need for pro production, including MPC Beats software and 2GB of sound content.
- You can customize your MPK Mini MK3 using the free editor software.
- You get two months of Splice, giving you access to a huge library of samples and loops.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the keys are velocity-sensitive, some users might prefer full-sized keys for more advanced playing.
- The included sound package bundles are curated, meaning you don’t get to choose every single sound you might want.
This controller is an excellent starting point for aspiring producers and a valuable addition for experienced musicians. It offers a lot of creative power in a small package.
5. Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3-25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads
Rating: 9.2/10
Unleash your inner music maker with the Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3. This compact USB MIDI controller packs a punch for anyone looking to create beats, control virtual instruments, or mix their tracks. Its 25 velocity-sensitive keys are great for playing melodies and chords, while the 8 MPC-style drum pads let you tap out rhythms and trigger samples with ease. The innovative thumbstick adds a new dimension to pitch and modulation, and the built-in arpeggiator helps you create cool musical patterns.
What We Like:
- It’s a music production and beat maker essential, perfect for studio work and virtual instruments.
- You get total control of your production with the 4-way thumbstick and arpeggiator.
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) integration lets you control Native Instruments software directly.
- You can choose a free Komplete 15 Select bundle from Native Instruments.
- The MPC experience is there with 8 backlit drum pads for drums and samples.
- You have complete command of your virtual instruments and FX with 8 assignable knobs.
- It comes with over 1500 sounds and everything you need to start producing, including MPC Beats software.
- You can customize your MPK Mini MK3 using the editor.
- You get two months of Splice, a huge sample library, with your purchase.
What Could Be Improved:
- The keys are mini-sized, which might feel a bit cramped for players with larger hands.
- While it includes a lot, some advanced producers might want more dedicated faders.
The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a fantastic all-in-one solution for aspiring and experienced music creators. It offers a wealth of features in a portable package, making it an excellent addition to any home studio.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Small MIDI Keyboard
Are you looking to make music on your computer or tablet? A small MIDI keyboard can be your best friend! It lets you play virtual instruments, record melodies, and control music software. This guide helps you choose the right one.
1. Key Features to Look For
Number of Keys
Small MIDI keyboards usually have 25 or 49 keys. 25 keys are super portable. They fit easily in a backpack. 49 keys give you more range. You can play more complex music with 49 keys.
Key Action and Feel
Keys can feel different. Some are “synth-action.” They are light and springy. Others are “semi-weighted.” They feel a bit heavier. This gives them a more piano-like feel. Try to find keys that feel good to you.
Connectivity
Most small MIDI keyboards connect to your computer using USB. This is simple and easy. Some also have MIDI ports. These let you connect to older gear.
Included Software
Many keyboards come with free music software. This can include virtual instruments and recording programs. This is a great bonus, especially for beginners.
Extra Controls
Look for knobs and sliders. These let you control your music software. You can change sounds or adjust volume. Some keyboards have drum pads too. These are great for making beats.
2. Important Materials
Most small MIDI keyboards use plastic for their bodies. This keeps them light and affordable. The keys are usually made of plastic too. Some higher-end keyboards might use metal for a sturdier feel. The quality of the plastic matters. Cheaper plastic can feel flimsy. Good plastic feels strong and durable.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built keyboard feels solid. The keys move smoothly. The knobs and buttons don’t feel loose. A poorly built keyboard might have sticky keys or rattling parts. This makes playing frustrating.
Key Sensitivity
Good key sensitivity means the keyboard plays how hard you press the keys. Pressing softly makes a quiet sound. Pressing hard makes a loud sound. This is called velocity sensitivity. It makes your music sound more expressive.
Software Compatibility
Make sure the keyboard works with your computer and music software. Most work with Windows and macOS. Check if it supports your favorite programs.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
For Beginners
A small MIDI keyboard is perfect for someone just starting. You can learn the basics of music production without spending a lot of money. The included software helps you get started right away.
For Mobile Musicians
If you like to make music on the go, a small keyboard is ideal. Its compact size makes it easy to carry. You can create music anywhere inspiration strikes.
For Beatmakers
Keyboards with drum pads are excellent for creating beats. You can tap out rhythms easily. This makes producing hip-hop or electronic music fun.
For Songwriters
If you write songs, a MIDI keyboard helps you lay down your ideas. You can quickly record melodies and chord progressions. This speeds up your songwriting process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a MIDI keyboard?
A: A MIDI keyboard is a controller. It sends musical information to a computer or other device. It doesn’t make sound on its own. You need software or another instrument to hear the music.
Q: Do I need special software to use a MIDI keyboard?
A: Yes, you need music software. This is called a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) or virtual instruments. Many keyboards come with free software to get you started.
Q: How many keys do I need?
A: For beginners or those with limited space, 25 keys are often enough. If you play piano or need more musical range, consider 49 keys.
Q: What does “velocity sensitive” mean?
A: Velocity sensitive keys respond to how hard you hit them. This means you can play louder or softer, making your music sound more natural and expressive.
Q: Can I use a small MIDI keyboard with my tablet?
A: Some small MIDI keyboards can connect to tablets. You will likely need an adapter and a compatible app.
Q: Are all MIDI keyboards the same size?
A: No, MIDI keyboards come in many sizes. Small ones are usually 25 or 49 keys. Larger ones can have 61, 76, or 88 keys.
Q: What is the difference between a MIDI keyboard and a digital piano?
A: A digital piano is a complete instrument that makes sound. A MIDI keyboard is a controller that sends information to other devices. It needs software or another sound source.
Q: Do I need to plug in my MIDI keyboard?
A: Most small MIDI keyboards get power through the USB cable connected to your computer. Some larger or more advanced models might need a separate power adapter.
Q: Can I use a MIDI keyboard without a computer?
A: Yes, you can use a MIDI keyboard with other MIDI-compatible devices like synthesizers or sound modules. You will need the right cables for this.
Q: How do I choose the best small MIDI keyboard for me?
A: Consider how many keys you need, the feel of the keys, and any extra features like knobs or pads. Reading reviews and watching videos can also help.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.