10 Best Budget Midi Keyboard 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

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.