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 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.

The Novation Launchkey 25 [MK4] is a compact and budget-friendly MIDI keyboard controller that comes with 25 keys, making it suitable for on-the-go music production and live performances. The key action is described as premium, which is a plus for a budget device, ensuring a good playing experience. Additionally, it features 16 responsive FSR pads that can be used for drumming, clip launching, and more, adding to the versatility of the controller.

The inclusion of Scale Mode, Chord Mode, and an arpeggiator offers powerful creative tools for music production, which can be particularly helpful for beginners who may not be proficient in music theory. Connectivity is well-covered with USB and MIDI options, making it compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems. This ensures seamless integration with all major DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic, Cubase, and FL Studio, which enhances the workflow for users. The software bundle included with the controller provides everything needed to start creating music right away.

In terms of build quality, the controller is made of plastic, which might not be as durable as some higher-end models, but it keeps the weight down to just 4 pounds, making it highly portable. While the compact size and lightweight build are convenient, they might also limit the range of expressive playing compared to larger keyboards. This product is best suited for beginners or intermediate musicians looking for an affordable, versatile, and portable MIDI controller.