Best In MIDI Controller of 2025

Hayden Bryant Avatar
Hayden Bryant
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

MIDI controllers are electronic devices used in music production to control and manipulate sound. They come in various shapes and sizes, from small portable units to larger, more complex systems. These controllers are used to trigger and manipulate sounds in software synthesizers, drum machines, and other virtual instruments. They often feature knobs, sliders, and buttons that can be assigned to different parameters in the software, allowing for precise control over the sound. MIDI controllers are an essential tool for musicians and producers looking to create and refine their sound.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Arturia MiniLab 3 Portable MIDI Controller Cover #TOP 1
Arturia MiniLab 3 Portable MIDI Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Arturia MiniLab 3 MIDI Controller with Software Cover #TOP 2
Arturia MiniLab 3 MIDI Controller with Software
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Donner B1 Analog Bass Synthesizer with MIDI Cover #TOP 3
Donner B1 Analog Bass Synthesizer with MIDI
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 In MIDI Controller

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 2

Arturia MiniLab 3 MIDI Controller with Software

MiniLab 3
black
Einheitsgröße
Arturia MiniLab 3 MIDI Controller with Software Cover
Arturia - MiniLab 3 - Universal MIDI Controller for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package - 25 Keys, 8 Multi-Color Pads - Black

The Arturia MiniLab 3 is a versatile MIDI controller designed to enhance your music production experience. It features a lightweight design that makes it portable, allowing you to create music anywhere. With 25 velocity-sensitive keys and 8 multi-colour pads, you can easily control instruments and add dynamic elements to your tracks. The device seamlessly integrates with major DAWs, letting you manage your projects entirely from the controller. Plus, it comes with a comprehensive software package that provides a wealth of sounds and tools to inspire your creativity.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight
Seamless DAW integration
Comprehensive software package included
Velocity-sensitive keys and pads
#TOP 3

Donner B1 Analog Bass Synthesizer with MIDI

Essential B1
Donner B1 Analog Bass Synthesizer with MIDI Cover
Analog Bass Synthesizer and Sequencer, Donner B1 Controller with 128 Patterns, Saturation & Delay Effects, LED Display and MIDI IN/OUT

The Donner B1 Synthesizer is designed for easy operation, featuring 128 electronic music genre presets and 128 user-programmable options, allowing you to create unique compositions effortlessly. Its modern silicon haptic pads with colour-changing backlights enhance playability, enabling you to perform bass synth lines live. You can explore classic deep bass tones with saturation and delay effects, perfect for aspiring EDM and Hip-Hop producers. Furthermore, it supports MIDI and multi-device connections, streamlining your music composition process with your DAW for added flexibility.

What We Like
User-friendly operation
Live performance capability
Classic bass tones
MIDI connectivity
Multi-device support
#TOP 4

Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 MIDI Controller

KeyLab Essential mk3 61
White
61-Key
Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 mk3 MIDI Controller Cover
Arturia - KeyLab Essential 61 mk3- MIDI Controller Keyboard for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package- 61 Keys, 9 Encoders, 9 Faders, 1 Modulation Wheel, 1 Pitch Bend Wheel, 8 Pads- White

The Arturia KeyLab Essential offers a versatile and user-friendly MIDI controller designed to enhance your music production workflow. With a responsive keyboard and tactile DAW commands, you can easily navigate your projects. The 9 faders and encoders allow for precise control over your sounds, while features like Chord Play and Scale Mode open up creative possibilities. Additionally, the included software package provides a wealth of vintage and modern presets, empowering you to create high-quality tracks effortlessly.

What We Like
Responsive keyboard experience
Wide range of controls
Included software package
Creative features for music-making
#TOP 5

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
#TOP 6

Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 MIDI Controller

231522
Black
Einheitsgröße
Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 MIDI Controller Cover
Arturia - KeyLab Essential 49 mk3- MIDI Controller Keyboard for Music Production, with All-in-One Software Package- 49 Keys, 9 Encoders, 9 Faders, 1 Modulation Wheel, 1 Pitch Bend Wheel, 8 Pads- Black

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is designed to enhance your music production workflow. Its durable yet stylish design allows you to easily adapt the keyboard to your personal style. With a responsive keybed and tactile controls, you can enjoy seamless navigation and a distraction-free experience. The extensive array of features, including Chord Play and Scale Mode, gives you creative flexibility, making it easier to experiment with your sound and bring your musical ideas to life.

What We Like
Responsive and tactile controls
Comprehensive software bundle
Eco-friendly design
Adaptable to various workflows

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 8

AKAI Professional APC64 MIDI Controller with RGB Pads

APC64
APC64 - black
Einheitsgröße
AKAI Professional APC64 MIDI Controller with RGB Pads Cover
AKAI Professional APC64 Ableton MIDI Controller with 8 Touch Strips, Step Sequencer, 64 RGB Velocity-Sensitive Pads, CV Gates, MIDI In & Out, USB-C

The AKAI APC64 is a next-generation Ableton Live controller designed to enhance your music production experience. With 64 RGB velocity-sensitive pads, you can trigger clips, play notes and chords, providing a vibrant way to interact with your music. The 8 assignable touch strips allow you to manipulate sound parameters like vibrato and pitch-bend, giving you greater control over your performances. Its built-in step sequencer lets you create complex sequences in real-time, whether you're using it with a computer or standalone. Additionally, the included Ableton Live Lite software makes it easy to record and mix your ideas.

What We Like
Highly responsive RGB pads
Flexible touch strips for sound control
Standalone sequencing capability
Includes Ableton Live Lite
Lightweight and portable design

AKAI Professional LPD8 MIDI Controller with Drum Pads

LPD8 MK2
LPD 8 MK2 - black
LPD8
AKAI Professional LPD8 MIDI Controller with Drum Pads Cover
AKAI Professional LPD8 - USB MIDI Controller with 8 Responsive MPC Drum Pads for Mac and PC, 8 Assignable Knobs and Music Production Software

The AKAI LPD8 Controller is ideal for music production, featuring 8 responsive MPC drum pads that allow you to trigger samples and loops effortlessly. With 8 assignable Q-Link knobs, you gain tactile control over your DAW parameters and software instruments, making mixing precise and intuitive. The controller offers 4 programmable preset slots, enabling you to recall your favourite settings instantly. Its lightweight and robust design ensures you can take it anywhere, making it a perfect companion for musicians on the go.

What We Like
Responsive drum pads
Assignable control knobs
Portable and sturdy design
Easy plug-and-play setup
Universal DAW compatibility

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
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our in midi controller research, we found 107 in midi controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 102,083 customer reviews through our big data system to write the in midi controller list. We found that most customers choose in midi controller with an average price of £112.80.

The in midi controller are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of in midi controller, including Arturia, Donner, Akai Professional.

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.