Best MIDI Keyboards 2026 – TOP 10

In my list of the best MIDI keyboards, I’ve gathered interesting and popular models.This list includes full-size and miniature MIDI keyboards with 88 keys and fewer. All the models featured are current for 2024. If you’re unsure how to choose a MIDI keyboard, I recommend checking out our article on it!

👉 How to Choose a MIDI Keyboard? 👈

A MIDI keyboard is a device that sends a musician’s physical playing on a piano or manipulation of encoders and faders via the MIDI protocol to a computer. MIDI keyboards are found in recording studios, production studios, at live performances, or at a musician’s home. In the 21st century, it’s the most common type of musical instrument. Thanks to a MIDI keyboard, you can record piano parts, bass, drum sections, and other instruments. Most modern MIDI devices come with encoders, buttons, and faders for manipulation within a DAW. Therefore, a MIDI keyboard can be used for writing automations or working in Live mode with the DAW and plugin interface.

In this list, I’ve included both expensive MIDI keyboard solutions and budget-friendly options up to 200$.

10 Alesis V25 MKII

Low-budget MIDI keyboard – with decent keys and pads.

Keys: 25, mini | Controller: encoders, buttons | Pads: 8 | Connection interface: USB-B.

The Alesis V25 is a portable MIDI keyboard from the budget segment. It’s equipped with 25 miniature keys that are velocity and aftertouch sensitive, allowing musicians to play with different expression and dynamics. The controller features 8 backlit pads for creating rhythms, sampling, or controlling other DAW functions. There are also 4 knobs and 4 buttons that can be configured to control instrument and effect parameters. The Alesis V25 comes with software that may include instruments, samples, or plugins for music creation.

You can consider the Alesis V25 as a first MIDI keyboard to buy. It’s a budget keyboard, so don’t expect anything supernatural 😆 .

9 Akai MPK mini MK3

The most popular MIDI controller – a high-quality budget MIDI keyboard.

Keys: 25, mini | Controller: encoders, buttons | Pads: 8 | Connection interface: USB-B.

The Akai MPK mini MK3 is the most popular portable MIDI keyboard. Like similar solutions, it’s equipped with 2-octave keys (25 of them) that are velocity-sensitive. It has an onboard display that helps when working with the controller. 8 encoders and 8 excellent pads will help with live performances or music production in the studio. Instead of the usual Pitch Bend and Mod Bend, Akai opted for a joystick, which is interesting. The Akai MPK mini MK3 is very compact (318 mm x 181 mm x 44 mm), making it easy to take with you on trips.

The Akai MPK mini MK3 has stood the test of time and users. It’s worth your attention.

8 Arturia Minilab 3

One of the best portable MIDI keyboards – includes plugins from Arturia.

Keys: 25, mini | Controller: encoders, buttons, faders | Pads: 8 | Connection interface: USB-C, MIDI OUT

The Arturia Minilab 3 is a portable 2-octave MIDI keyboard with controller capabilities. For me, the Arturia Minilab 3 is one of the best portable MIDI keyboards. I did a detailed review of it, which I recommend checking out. I was pleasantly surprised by the keys with excellent response and a stunning, informative OLED display. 8 pads will help you use the controller in live performances or in the studio. Encoders and faders are always useful for writing automations or working with plugins. The Arturia Minilab 3 is a modern MIDI controller for producers working in any music genre.

I recommend the Arturia Minilab 3 for purchase. Remember that for $110, you get not only a MIDI keyboard but also useful software from Arturia ;-).

7 M-Audio Oxygen 61 Pro

MIDI controller with many functions – excellent software and plugin bundle.

Keys: 61, full-size, semi-weighted  | Controller: encoders, buttons, faders | Pads: 16 | Connection interface: USB-B, MIDI OUT.

The M-Audio Oxygen 61 Pro is a keyboard MIDI controller developed by M-Audio for musicians, producers, and DJs. This controller offers a keyboard, pads, knobs, and buttons designed to control various functions in music software and DAWs. It’s equipped with 61 velocity-sensitive keys, allowing you to play with different levels of force and expressiveness. The Oxygen 61 Pro features 8 knobs, 9 faders, and various buttons that can be configured to control instrument parameters, effects, or mixing in your DAW.

The M-Audio Oxygen 61 Pro is an affordable MIDI controller that can suit both beginners and professionals, and the $290 price is a pleasant surprise 8-).

6 Novation flkey 61

Full-size MIDI keyboard – full integration with FL Studio.

Keys: 61, full-size, semi-weighted  | Controller: encoders, buttons, faders | Pads: 16 | Connection interface: USB-B, MIDI OUT.

The Novation flkey 61 is a full-size MIDI keyboard and controller designed for working within FL Studio. This MIDI keyboard is made to easily and quickly improve the workflow for producers using FL Studio. It has everything you need: excellent velocity-sensitive keys, pads, encoders, and faders. The Novation flkey 61 can be used as a MIDI controller, to write effect automations, or to tap out beats with the pads. Several interesting functions are available for playing the MIDI keyboard, such as Chord mode or creating sequences.

The Novation flkey 61 is a good choice for FL Studio users. If this is your main workstation, then pay attention to this MIDI keyboard.

5 Arturia KeyLab 61 Essential

Lightweight and compact MIDI keyboard – excellent keys and control screen.

Keys: 49, full-size, semi-weighted  | Controller: encoders, buttons, faders | Pads: 8 | Connection interface: USB-B, MIDI OUT.

The Arturia KeyLab 61 Essential is a full-size MIDI keyboard with an LCD display and controller capabilities. It has 61 velocity-sensitive keys onboard, allowing musicians to play with varying levels of pressure and expression. 8 pads will help you tap out beats or use them in live performances. This MIDI keyboard is equipped with encoders and faders, which can be linked to Arturia plugins or programmed to work in a DAW.

The Arturia KeyLab 61 Essential is an affordable MIDI keyboard with full-size keys. If you’re looking for your first controller, you can consider it. I recommend reading my detailed review!

4 Akai MPK 249 MK2

Compact MIDI keyboard with full-size keys – can connect to iOS.

Keys: 49, full-size, semi-weighted  | Controller: encoders, buttons, faders | Pads: 16 | Connection interface: USB-C, MIDI IN/OUT.

The Akai MPK 249 MK2 is a MIDI keyboard and controller created for musicians and DJs. The keyboard is equipped with 49 keys that are sensitive not only to touch but also to the speed of playing. In addition to the keyboard, the device has 16 RGB pads, which are also touch-sensitive and backlit, displaying information about their status and assignment. The Akai MPK 249 MK2 can be integrated into any DAW, and you can fully utilize the MIDI keyboard’s interface.

The Akai MPK 249 MK2 is a powerful and versatile instrument that allows you to comfortably create music, control sounds, samples, and DAW settings. It’s ideal for musicians who need a compact yet multifunctional MIDI controller for music production.

3 Arturia Keylab 49 mkII🥉

High-quality MIDI controller with 49 keys – has 9 faders and 9 encoders.

Keys: 49, full-size, featuring Arturia’s Pro-Feel technology | Controller: encoders, buttons, faders | Pads: 16 | Connection interface: USB-B, MIDI IN/OUT, CV

The Arturia Keylab 49 mkII is a full-size MIDI keyboard with control elements and pads. This model has 49 keys with Arturia Pro-Feel technology. The keys are velocity-sensitive and can convey both a soft, delicate performance from a pianist and an aggressive delivery from a musician. The Arturia Keylab 49 mkII is equipped with an LCD display that helps you see useful information (plugin presets, encoder and fader positions, etc.). For beatmakers, there are 16 silicone pads installed here, which will help you tap out beats or use them in live performances. I recommend checking out my review of this MIDI keyboard!

The Arturia Keylab 49 mkII is an excellent MIDI keyboard for studio and touring use. And the useful bundled software from Arturia will improve the sound of your tracks and bring new colors to your music ;-).

2 Roland A-88MKII 🥈

MIDI keyboard and controller – keys with hammer action mechanism.

Keys: 88, full-size, hammer-action  | Controller: encoders, buttons | Pads: – | Connection interface: USB-C, MIDI IN/OUT.

The Roland A-88MKII is a full-size MIDI keyboard from the renowned keyboard instrument manufacturer Roland. The keys of this controller are weighted and have a standard key travel range, built on the PHA-4 mechanism, which provides a realistic playing feel. This MIDI keyboard has control buttons and integrates easily with any DAW. The A-88MKII offers MIDI and USB connections, making it compatible with a wide range of software and hardware. Don’t forget the good bundled software, which will definitely be useful for arrangers and musicians.

The Roland A-88MKII is a good professional instrument that can replace a huge grand piano or upright piano. This model is perfect for pianists. The $1300 price is fully justified.

1 Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 🏆

One of the best midi keyboards 2026 year – full-size keys and integration with NI Kontakt.

Keys: 88, full-size, with Hammer Action technology | Controller: encoders, buttons, display | Pads: – | Connection interface: USB-C, MIDI IN\OUT.

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 is a full-size MIDI keyboard with an LCD display and control buttons. This MIDI keyboard has weighted keys with backlighting and is built with Hammer Action technology, providing the feel of playing a real piano. The Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 fully integrates with NKS (Kontakt), allowing complete customization of the plugin interface and manipulation of NKS libraries. Thanks to its buttons and faders, this MIDI keyboard can be integrated with and controlled by any DAW.

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK3 is a reference MIDI keyboard that will be an excellent choice for professionals and pianists. Its $1500 price is justified as this MIDI keyboard will cover all the needs of a musician and arranger. Music writing, automation recording, and live performances are not a problem for this MIDI keyboard 8-).

---

---

---

❓ Which MIDI keyboards to buy? Answers to questions:

1. Which MIDI keyboard to choose for a beginner? If you plan to learn piano, you 100% need a full-size MIDI keyboard with the closest possible playing feel. This could be a hammer-action or weighted MIDI keyboard. You should get one with 61 or 88 keys so you don’t hit a ceiling for playing and can develop your right and left hands. If you’re a beatmaker and a small MIDI keyboard is sufficient for recording simple melodies and harmonies, you can get something like the Arturia MiniLab 3. It’s best to figure out for yourself what purposes you need a MIDI keyboard for. If possible, go to a store and play on all the types available, then you won’t make a mistake when choosing!
2. What is needed to connect a MIDI keyboard? Practically all MIDI keyboards work with any software. You just need to connect the keyboard to your PC, launch your DAW (e.g., Cubase), set up the connection, select a virtual synthesizer (VSTi) – and you can start playing. MIDI keyboards can be connected via a standard USB or MIDI cable.
3. What is better, a MIDI keyboard or a synthesizer? A MIDI keyboard requires a source like a computer, tablet, or smartphone (VSTi or DAW). A synthesizer can synthesize and create sound on its own. The concept of ‘better’ doesn’t apply. Most expensive MIDI keyboards are not inferior to modern synthesizers in terms of control, quality, and key simulation.
4. Can you play a MIDI keyboard without a computer?No. A MIDI keyboard requires a sound source. Essentially, a MIDI keyboard is an instrument for playing, and the sound itself is formed in your DAW. Some MIDI keyboards can work with portable devices (Android, iOS).
5. Can you learn to play on a MIDI Keyboard? Of course, but it’s advisable to get a full-size MIDI keyboard with 61 or 88 keys, and remember that a MIDI keyboard requires a computer.
6. Can you connect a MIDI keyboard to a phone? Yes, some MIDI keyboards can be connected to a phone. You should check the device specifications to see if it supports iOS or Android.
7. Do professionals play on MIDI keyboards? Yes. In studios, at concerts, at home, and generally anywhere 8-). MIDI keyboards are a convenient and flexible instrument. It can be a piano, drums, trumpets, guitars, and anything else you choose in your DAW.
8. Should I buy an expensive one right away, or can I get a budget MIDI keyboard? If possible, it’s best to get the best one you can afford. The more expensive the keyboard, the more functions it has and the better the key simulation quality.

👉 How to Choose a MIDI Keyboard? 👈