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10 Best Budget Midi Keyboard 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 - 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs, Music Production Software and Native Instruments Sound Package (NKS Integration), Grey

The AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a budget-friendly MIDI keyboard controller with 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, making it compact and portable for on-the-go music production. The inclusion of 8 backlit drum pads and 8 assignable knobs offers a solid range of control for beat making and virtual synthesizer manipulation. The innovative 4-way thumbstick and built-in arpeggiator add further versatility for dynamic pitch and modulation control, as well as creative arpeggios.

This makes it a great choice for beginners and budget-conscious music producers looking for an all-in-one solution to start making music right away. The MPK Mini MK3 comes with a comprehensive software package, including MPC Beats and over 1500 sounds, providing a robust starting point for music production. The lightweight plastic build and small size (7 x 12.5 x 1.9 inches, 1.8 pounds) enhance its portability, which is ideal for travel and tight studio spaces.

However, the mini keys may be less comfortable for users with larger hands or those used to full-sized keys. Additionally, while the USB connectivity ensures easy setup, the device is primarily compatible with Windows and Windows 7 platforms, potentially limiting its use with other operating systems. Despite these minor drawbacks, the AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 offers an excellent balance of features, portability, and price, making it a strong contender in the budget MIDI keyboard category.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Number of Keys
25 velocity-sensitive keys are responsive and perfect for crafting melodies and beats.
Key Action
The build quality is impressive with a solid, durable feel and responsive, smooth keys.
Pads and Controls
Pads are firm yet sensitive, making it easy to achieve the perfect velocity for drumming and sampling.
Connectivity
Seamless connection with various DAWs, integrating flawlessly every time.
Software Compatibility
Included software expands creative possibilities and adds great value.
Build Quality and Portability
The build quality is impressive with a solid, durable feel and responsive, smooth keys.
#2

Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] - premium 88-note MIDI keyboard for expressive music creation

The Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] is a premium 88-note MIDI keyboard that caters to expressive music creation. The 88 semi-weighted keys provide a realistic playing experience, which is a standout feature for a budget MIDI keyboard. The 16 velocity-sensitive pads add to the expressive capabilities, making it suitable for creating dynamic performances. However, its classification as a 'budget' option might be a stretch given its premium features and price point.

The seamless DAW integration across leading software like Ableton, Logic Pro, and Cubase makes this keyboard appealing for users who require immediate control over their music production software. The powerful arpeggiator with Strum Mode and creative scale and chord modes further enhance its versatility, allowing users to explore various melodic and harmonic possibilities effortlessly. Connectivity is robust with both USB and MIDI options, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

Despite its plastic build, the keyboard is sturdy, but at 18.17 pounds, it is not the most portable option. It works with both Mac and Windows operating systems, making it accessible to a broad user base. Given its advanced features, this MIDI keyboard might be more suitable for intermediate to advanced users rather than beginners. While it offers excellent value for its high-end functionalities, those strictly looking for a budget-friendly option may find it a bit pricey. In summary, the Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] is a feature-rich MIDI keyboard that excels in providing an expressive and comprehensive music creation experience, albeit at a higher cost than typical budget keyboards.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Number of Keys
The 25 velocity-sensitive keys are responsive and comfortable for playing melodies or chords, balancing portability and functionality.
Pads and Controls
The controller's pads and knobs offer good tactile control for DAW settings and mixing, adding to its usability.
Connectivity
Setting up with DAWs like Waveform Pro is seamless with plug-and-play functionality, enhancing the overall user experience.
Software Compatibility
The bundled software requires multiple accounts and permissions, which can be a privacy concern, though the hardware itself remains impressive.
Build Quality and Portability
The keyboard is smaller than expected, making it perfect for a mobile setup. It's compact enough to fit inside a backpack alongside other gear.
#3

Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 37 Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O, Music Production Software and Native Instruments Sound Package

The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly MIDI keyboard controller. With 37 mini keys, it offers a compact design that allows for easy portability, making it suitable for musicians on the go. The key action is responsive, providing a decent playing experience for both melodic and harmonic performance. One of its standout features is the advanced connectivity options, including MIDI and CV/Gate I/O, which allow for integration with various sound sources and modular gear, expanding your creative possibilities.

For music production, the built-in 64-step sequencer is a significant plus, allowing you to compose and record without needing a computer. This is great for hands-on music creation, especially for those who prefer a more tactile approach. Additionally, the eight RGB MPC pads are not only visually appealing but also durable and responsive, making them a joy to use for triggering samples and creating beats.

However, the MPK Mini Plus is not without its drawbacks. While the 37 keys provide a range for performance, some users may find them limiting for more complex compositions compared to full-sized keyboards. The build quality is adequate, but the plastic construction may not feel as robust as some competitors in this price range. Also, while it integrates well with various DAWs, there may be a learning curve for those new to music production software.

In terms of software, the inclusion of MPC Beats and a month of access to Splice is a nice bonus for beginners, providing a wealth of samples and presets to get started. Despite some minor limitations, the Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is a solid option for aspiring musicians, producers, and hobbyists looking to create music in a compact format without breaking the bank.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Number of Keys
The keys are quite a bit smaller than expected since I’m used to a full-sized keyboard, but this wasn’t a problem at all.
Key Action
The keys take a little adjustment, but once broken in it feels like a quality item.
Pads and Controls
The drum pads are a bit stiff but can be adjusted for better performance.
Connectivity
Has all the MIDI functionality you want along with CV gate in/out, MIDI in/out and control knobs for functions and the transport controls for stop, play etc. to work with your DAW.
Software Compatibility
It’s plug and play with some setup required if you use a DAW other than the one it comes with; functions on any DAW regardless with instant response during play.
Build Quality and Portability
It’s super lightweight and portable.

Buying Guide for the Best Budget Midi Keyboard

Choosing the right MIDI keyboard can greatly enhance your music production experience. A MIDI keyboard is an essential tool for any music producer, allowing you to control virtual instruments and other software with the tactile feel of a physical keyboard. When selecting a MIDI keyboard, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure it meets your needs and enhances your workflow. Here are the key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Number of KeysThe number of keys on a MIDI keyboard determines the range of notes you can play at once. MIDI keyboards typically come with 25, 49, 61, or 88 keys. A 25-key keyboard is compact and portable, ideal for on-the-go production or small workspaces, but it has a limited range. A 49 or 61-key keyboard offers a good balance between range and size, suitable for most producers. An 88-key keyboard provides the full range of a piano, perfect for pianists or those who need extensive range for complex compositions. Choose based on your space, portability needs, and the complexity of your music.
Key ActionKey action refers to how the keys feel when you press them. There are three main types: synth-action, semi-weighted, and fully-weighted (or hammer action). Synth-action keys are light and springy, good for fast playing and electronic music. Semi-weighted keys have a bit more resistance, offering a balance between synth-action and fully-weighted keys. Fully-weighted keys mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, providing the most realistic playing experience. Your choice should depend on your playing style and preference for key feel.
Pads and ControlsPads and controls on a MIDI keyboard allow you to trigger samples, control software parameters, and enhance your workflow. Pads are often used for drum programming and can be pressure-sensitive for dynamic control. Additional controls like knobs, faders, and buttons can be mapped to software functions, giving you hands-on control over your music production. If you need more tactile control and want to streamline your workflow, look for a keyboard with a good number of pads and assignable controls.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how you can connect your MIDI keyboard to your computer or other devices. Most MIDI keyboards connect via USB, which is straightforward and compatible with most setups. Some keyboards also offer traditional 5-pin MIDI ports for connecting to other MIDI hardware. Additionally, some models may include sustain pedal inputs or even Bluetooth connectivity for wireless use. Consider your current setup and how you plan to integrate the keyboard into your workflow when evaluating connectivity options.
Software CompatibilitySoftware compatibility ensures that your MIDI keyboard works seamlessly with your digital audio workstation (DAW) and other music software. Many MIDI keyboards come with bundled software or are pre-mapped to popular DAWs, making setup easier. Check if the keyboard is compatible with your preferred DAW and if it offers any additional software that might enhance your production capabilities. This can save you time and provide additional tools for your music creation.
Build Quality and PortabilityBuild quality affects the durability and longevity of your MIDI keyboard. Look for a keyboard with a sturdy build, especially if you plan to travel with it. Portability is also a key factor; lighter and more compact keyboards are easier to carry around but may sacrifice some features. Consider how often you'll be moving the keyboard and whether you need something robust for studio use or something lightweight for on-the-go production.

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