Best MIDI Controller of 2025

Hayden Bryant Avatar
Hayden Bryant
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025

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A MIDI controller is a device that allows musicians and producers to control and manipulate various aspects of their music software. These controllers come in various shapes and sizes, but they all offer a range of assignable knobs, buttons, and faders that can be mapped to different parameters within your software. With the ability to control everything from virtual instruments to mixing and mastering tools, a MIDI controller can greatly improve the workflow and creative possibilities for any musician or producer.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller Cover #TOP 1
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.9
AKAI Professional MPK Mini Plus MIDI Controller Cover #TOP 2
AKAI Professional MPK Mini Plus MIDI Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.8
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard Cover #TOP 3
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 MIDI Controller

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller

MPKMINI3
Standard
MPK Mini
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller Cover
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 – 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs and Music Production Software Included

The AKAI MPK Mini MK3 is an essential USB-powered MIDI controller designed for music production and beat making. With 25 velocity-sensitive keys, it allows you to create dynamic melodies and harmonies effortlessly. The innovative 4-way thumbstick offers precise pitch and modulation control, enhancing your creative possibilities. You can also utilise the built-in arpeggiator to generate rhythmic patterns, adding depth to your music. Additionally, the 8 backlit drum pads make it easy to programme drums and trigger samples, ensuring you have complete control over your productions.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Customisable controls for flexibility
Includes extensive sound library
Ideal for beginners and professionals

AKAI Professional MPK Mini Plus MIDI Controller

MPK Mini Plus
Black
37 Tasten
AKAI Professional MPK Mini Plus MIDI Controller Cover
AKAI Professional MPK Mini Plus - 37 mini Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 8 MPC Pads, Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O, and Music Production Software

The AKAI MPK Mini Plus is a versatile MIDI controller that offers full creative control with its dynamic 37-key keybed, allowing you to perform melodies and harmonies effortlessly. Its advanced connectivity features let you connect to various sound sources, including modular gear and synthesizers, expanding your music production capabilities. You can also record and compose without needing a computer, thanks to the built-in 64-step sequencer. Additionally, the transport section simplifies controlling your DAW, making it easy for you to navigate large projects efficiently.

What We Like
Dynamic 37-key keybed
Advanced connectivity options
Built-in sequencer for composing
Intuitive DAW control
#TOP 3

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard

KEYSTATION MINI 32 MK3
MK3 Black 32 Keys
32 Keys
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard Cover
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 32 Velocity Sensitive Mini Keys and Recording Software Included

The M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 is designed for music production on the go. With its 32 velocity-sensitive mini keys, you can enjoy a natural playing experience that suits your style, whether you prefer piano or synthesiser sounds. The plug-and-play feature means you can easily connect it to your Mac or PC without needing extra drivers or power supplies. Additionally, the octave buttons allow you to expand your range, while the volume knob and sustain button enable you to express yourself more fully in your music.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight design
Customisable velocity response
Easy plug-and-play setup
Extended range with octave buttons

Arturia MiniLab 3 Portable MIDI Controller

MiniLab 3
White
25-Key
Arturia MiniLab 3 Portable MIDI Controller Cover
Arturia - MiniLab 3 - Universal MIDI Controller for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package - 25 Keys, 8 Multi-Color Pads. - White

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a versatile MIDI controller that effortlessly adapts to your music-making needs. With its 25 velocity-sensitive keys and 8 multi-colour pads, you can control instruments and create dynamic tracks easily. The compact design ensures portability, making it perfect for recording or jamming anywhere. It also features seamless integration with major DAWs, allowing you to manage your projects entirely from the MiniLab 3, enhancing your creative flow.

What We Like
Portable and robust design
Seamless DAW integration
Velocity-sensitive keys and pads
Includes comprehensive software package
#TOP 5

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller

MPKMINI3
White
25 Tasten
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller Cover
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 – 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs and Music Production Software Included (White)

The AKAI MPK Mini MK3 is a versatile USB MIDI keyboard controller designed for music production and beat making. With its 25 velocity-sensitive keys, you can create dynamic melodies and harmonies effortlessly. The innovative 4-way thumbstick offers you precise pitch and modulation control, enhancing your creative possibilities. Additionally, the 8 backlit drum pads allow you to programme drums and trigger samples with ease, making it perfect for live performances. Lastly, the 8 assignable knobs give you complete command over your virtual instruments and effects, enabling seamless mixing and tweaking.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Velocity-sensitive keys and pads
Customisable controls
Includes extensive sound library

AKAI Professional LPK25 MIDI Keyboard Controller

LPK25 MK2
LPK25 MK2 - black
New Model
AKAI Professional LPK25 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
AKAI Professional LPK25 - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with 25 Responsive Synth Keys for Mac and PC, Arpeggiator and Music Production Software

The AKAI LPK25 is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller designed for both Mac and PC users. With its 25 responsive synth keys, you can enjoy an expressive playing experience, perfect for songwriting and composing. The octave up and down buttons allow you to easily transpose your software instruments, while the sustain button enhances your performances. Additionally, the built-in arpeggiator provides creative control over your sound sources, enabling you to explore unique musical ideas effortlessly.

What We Like
Responsive keys for expressive play
Octave buttons for easy transposition
Built-in arpeggiator for creativity
Simple USB plug-and-play setup
Compatible with popular software
#TOP 7

Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 MIDI Controller

APCKEY25MK2
New Model - black
Einheitsgröße
Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 MIDI Controller Cover
Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 - 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller for Clip Launching with Ableton Live Lite, 40 RGB Pads and 8 Rotary Knobs

The Akai APC Key 25 MK2 is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller designed for seamless integration with Ableton Live. It features a built-in 25-note synthesizer keyboard with octave controls, allowing you to expand your melodic range effortlessly. With its bright 5x8 RGB pad matrix, you can launch clips with visual feedback, making it easy to trigger loops and samples. The 25 responsive mini keys are velocity-sensitive, perfect for live performances and studio compositions. Additionally, the eight assignable rotary knobs enable you to control volume, effects, and automation directly, enhancing your creative workflow.

What We Like
Excellent integration with Ableton Live
Responsive mini keys for performance
Bright RGB pads for visual feedback
USB powered for easy connectivity

AKAI Professional MIDImix USB MIDI Controller Mixer

MIDIMIX
black
Einheitsgröße
AKAI Professional MIDImix USB MIDI Controller Mixer Cover
AKAI Professional MIDImix - USB MIDI Controller Mixer with Assignable Faders & Master Fader, 24 Knobs and 16 Buttons, 1 to 1 Mapping With Ableton Live

The AKAI MIDImix offers complete mix control with its lightweight and compact design, making it ultra-portable. You can easily manage track volume and effect settings using the eight individual line faders and one master fader. With 24 assignable knobs, you can adjust EQ and other parameters directly, enhancing your mixing experience. The 16 buttons provide convenient mute, solo, and record arm functions for each channel, allowing you to work efficiently and intuitively.

What We Like
Ultra-portable design
Easy control of track volume
24 assignable knobs for flexibility
Effortless integration with Ableton Live
Convenient channel functions
#TOP 9

Nektar SE61 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard

SE61
Black
61 Keys
Nektar SE61 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover
Nektar SE61 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with Nektar DAW Integration

The Nektar SE61 Controller is designed to enhance your music-making experience with your computer. It boasts 61 full-size velocity-sensitive keys, allowing you to adjust the keyboard's response to match your playing style, which can improve your performance. Its compatibility with any DAW or MIDI software on various operating systems ensures that you can integrate it seamlessly into your setup. Additionally, the Nektar DAW Integration feature enables you to control your music software more efficiently, letting you change tracks or instrument sounds without needing to use your computer mouse.

What We Like
Excellent value for money
Full-size velocity-sensitive keys
Wide software compatibility
Easy DAW control
#TOP 10

Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 White MIDI Controller

KeyLab Essential mk3 49 White
White
Einheitsgröße
Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 White MIDI Controller Cover
Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 Mk3 White - Master Keyboard

The Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3 is an expressive controller designed for your workflow. Its durable design adapts to your unique style, allowing you to create music effortlessly. You will appreciate the responsive keyboard and tactile DAW commands that enhance your music-making experience. With features like Chord Play and Scale Mode, you can unleash your creativity and explore new musical possibilities, making it an ideal tool for both beginners and seasoned musicians alike.

What We Like
Adaptive and stylish design
Responsive controls for seamless use
Creative features for music exploration
Comprehensive software bundle included
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a MIDI controller do?

A MIDI controller is a simple way to sequence music and play virtual instruments on your Mac or PC. It works by sending MIDI data (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) to a computer or synthesizer, which then interprets the signal and spits out a sound.

2. What is the difference between a MIDI controller and a keyboard?

A midi controller is just a keyboard that transmits and receives midi information, there are no sounds built into a controller, therefore, you will need an external source for sounds – if you connect to a computer to edit you will then be able to use software to edit the sounds you have created.

3. Is a MIDI controller necessary?

But are MIDI keyboards and controllers necessary? Although there are still many ways to create music without a MIDI keyboard or controller they now considered a necessary tool for modern music production due to their ability to enhance creativity and improve workflow in any music studio.

4. Is a MIDI keyboard a MIDI controller?

One of the greatest things about MIDI Keyboards is that they can also be used as MIDI controllers since they come with a MIDI output. What is this? Newer MIDI Keyboards typically come with USB connections, which plug straight into your computer so that you can use software instruments.

Editor's Notes

During our midi controller research, we found 253 midi controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 204,982 customer reviews through our big data system to write the midi controller list. We found that most customers choose midi controller with an average price of £77.63.

The midi controller are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of midi controller, including Akai Professional, M-Audio, Arturia, Nektar.

Written by
Hayden Bryant Avatar

Hayden was born in Liverpool, and he never left his hometown until university. In his freshman year at the University of Manchester, Hayden was the group leader of a popular music group. Hayden is responsible for the popularity of his music, and this is because of his natural ability to play with keys and strings. He graduated with BFA in 2016 and returned in 2018 as a lecturing staff in the School of Music.