Buying your first MIDI keyboard? Here are your best options
We take a deep dive into some of the most commonly recommended MIDI controllers for beginner producers, performers, and beatmakers.
Beginning your music-production journey can be daunting, but it’s also a lot of fun — just consider the endless possibilities ahead! While you can get started with little more than a laptop (or even your phone, nowadays) music is meant to be played, and we’d always recommend you invest in a way to physically connect with your sounds and software. Programming notes on a piano roll works well enough, but a good MIDI controller for beginners will have you transforming finger movements into musical magic in no time.
In recent years, the landscape of beginners keyboards has evolved, and we now have access to everything from traditional piano-style keys to revolutionary touch-sensitive surfaces, and all at more affordable prices than ever before. So whether you're drawn to the classic feel of weighted keys or are curious about next-generation expression, there's a controller on this list that'll match your creative vision perfectly.
In today's market, you'll find versatile options from the likes of pro-studio staples like Arturia, Akai, and Native Instruments, alongside similarly-specced alternatives from lesser-known brands that offer great value to those who know exactly what they need from a controller (and what they don’t). But some of the most exciting developments are happening with MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) controllers. These instruments respond to multiple dimensions of touch, opening up new creative territories without adding complexity by way of additional knobs, faders, and buttons.
Companies like ROLI have been pushing these boundaries with controllers that blend familiar and revolutionary approaches. Options range from enhanced traditional keyboards like the ROLI Piano, to compact expressive units like Piano M, all the way to completely reimagined interfaces like the ROLI Seaboard M that let you bend, slide, and shape notes in ways that would leave guitarists envious.
So, from the essential to the expressive, and compact keys to commanding control-centers, here are our picks of MIDI keyboards for beginners that won’t break the bank.
ROLI Piano M
When considering keyboards for beginners, we have to start with our own Piano M (formerly LUMI Keys Studio Edition)— a keyboard, designed, in part, to teach you how to play. Our focus here though is on its expressive capabilities, and on that front Piano M brings MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) capabilities to a compact, travel-friendly form factor. Its 24 illuminated mini-keys don't just look striking — they light up to show scales, chords, and arpeggios, essentially providing visual feedback that can accelerate the learning process for new producers.
What sets the Piano M apart from other MIDI controllers for beginners is its approach to expression. Instead of relying on separate pitch and mod wheels, you can bend notes by sliding your finger sideways on a key, create vibrato with small wiggles, and apply pressure for aftertouch effects. This polyphonic capability means each key responds independently, opening up playing techniques that simply aren't possible on conventional keyboards. While this does require adapting to a slightly different playing style than traditional pianos, most users find the learning curve manageable and appreciate the expanded creative possibilities.
The wireless connectivity via Bluetooth makes the Piano M genuinely portable, with up to six hours of battery life supporting both studio work and mobile creativity. The included ROLI Studio software provides over 400 presets, many of them designed to showcase the controller's expressive capabilities, while the magnetic connector system allows multiple units to be chained together for expanded range. This modular approach means you can start small and grow your setup as needed.
Want to build confidence in your keyboard skills? Pair Piano M with the ROLI Learn app and learn to play with an ever-growing library of classic and contemporary hit songs.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
Like many keyboards for beginners, the M32's compact design makes it highly portable and desk-friendly, though this comes with minor trade-offs in playability. The 32 mini-keys use synth-action rather than weighted keys, which means they respond quickly and are ideal for programming sequences and triggering samples, but may feel less familiar if you're coming from traditional piano experience. The smaller key size also requires some adjustment, especially if you have larger hands or you're planning to play complex chord progressions.
The M32 also comes with a substantial software bundle that adds significant value to the package. It includes over 6,100 sounds and 10 GB of content, featuring professional instruments like the Monark analog synth, Scarbee Mark I electric piano, and Reaktor Prism modal synth, plus Ableton Live Lite for recording and production. This comprehensive package gives beginners immediate access to high-quality sounds and production tools without additional investment.
While the M32 requires a USB connection to your computer rather than offering wireless connectivity, this ensures stable, low-latency performance that's crucial for recording and live performance. The eight touch-sensitive knobs provide hands-on control over software parameters, and the Smart Play features help beginners stay in key and create musical ideas even without extensive keyboard skills. The M32's approach prioritizes electronic music production over acoustic piano performance, with its compact size and included software supporting that focus.
Native Instruments also offers the A-Series controllers with similar features and software bundles but equipped with full-size keys for those who prefer a traditional keyboard layout over the M32's mini-key design.
Akai MPK Mini MK3
The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is the latest iteration in Akai's popular MPK Mini series, continuing the line's reputation as a budget-friendly workhorse that covers the essentials without unnecessary complexity. Like the M32, it features standard mini-keys that provide a straightforward playing experience, while eight backlit velocity-sensitive pads offer hands-on control for triggering drums and samples. The inclusion of eight assignable knobs gives you tactile control over software parameters, making it easy to tweak sounds in real-time without reaching for your mouse.
What sets the MPK Mini MK3 apart is its focus on beat-making and hip-hop production, though it's versatile enough for other genres. The pads are particularly responsive and well-suited for finger drumming, while the arpeggiator and note repeat functions help you create rhythmic patterns quickly. If you're interested in sample-based music or want to develop your rhythm programming skills, these features provide immediate creative satisfaction without requiring deep technical knowledge.
The controller operates via USB bus power, meaning you don't need to worry about batteries or separate power supplies — just plug it in and start playing. While it doesn't include the extensive software packages found with some competitors, it works seamlessly with most DAWs and comes with MPC Beats for basic beat-making. The MPK Mini MK3's straightforward approach makes it particularly suitable if you want to focus on making music rather than learning complex software workflows.
Arturia KeyLab Essential
The Arturia KeyLab Essential series offers full-size keys in either 49-key or 61-key configurations, making it one of the few budget-friendly options that provides a traditional key layout rather than mini-keys. The keys are velocity-sensitive with synth-action, and the larger key count means you can play more complex chord progressions and bass lines without constantly shifting octaves.
What distinguishes the KeyLab Essential is its comprehensive control surface, featuring nine faders, nine rotary encoders, and dedicated transport controls that give you hands-on access to your DAW's mixing and recording functions. The color-coded controls make it easy to understand which parameters you're adjusting, while the pitch and mod wheels provide expressive control for leads and solos. If you're planning to do a lot of mixing within your DAW or want tactile control over multiple parameters simultaneously, this level of hardware control can significantly speed up your workflow.
The KeyLab Essential comes with Ableton Live Lite and Arturia's Analog Lab Lite, which includes over 500 sounds from their acclaimed synthesizer emulations. The larger key count means you can play more complex chord progressions and bass lines without constantly shifting octaves, though this does make the controller significantly larger and less portable than mini-key alternatives. The KeyLab Essential works well if you have dedicated studio space and prioritize traditional keyboard feel over portability.
Arturia also offers the KeyLab Mini and KeyLab Mini Plus for those who prefer a more compact form factor. These models feature 25 mini-keys while retaining the same comprehensive software bundle, providing a middle ground between portability and the extensive control features that define the KeyLab range.
Novation Launchkey
The Novation Launchkey series spans a wide range of sizes, from compact mini-key versions to full-size 61-key models, though the smaller 25 and 37-key variants offer a balance of features and portability for beginners. These models feature velocity-sensitive keys with synth-action feel and include 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads for triggering drums, samples, and clips in Ableton Live. Eight rotary knobs provide real-time control over software parameters, though unlike the larger models in the range, the 25 and 37-key versions don't include faders.
One of Launchkey's main strengths is its integration with Ableton Live, where the pads light up in corresponding colors to match your Live session, and dedicated buttons for session navigation, clip launching, and device control create a workflow that connects directly with the software. If you're planning to use Live as your primary DAW, this level of integration can streamline your creative process.
The Launchkey comes with Ableton Live Lite and a selection of plugins, providing a foundation for electronic music production. Novation also offers the FLkey series with similar features specifically designed for FL Studio users, providing the same level of tight DAW integration for those who prefer that particular production environment.
ROLI Piano
ROLI Piano builds on the foundation of the Piano M with four full octaves of semi-weighted, full-size keys. Like the Piano M, it features the same Brightkey illumination system and 4D Touch capabilities, but the 49 full-size keys with complete plunge depth make it feel more familiar if you're coming from conventional piano or keyboard experience. This expanded format allows for comfortable two-handed playing while maintaining all the expressive possibilities of MPE control.
ROLI Piano shares the same core MPE features as its smaller sibling — you can bend notes by sliding sideways on keys, create vibrato with finger wiggles, and apply polyphonic aftertouch for dynamic expression. However, the full-size keys and semi-weighted action provide more resistance and tactile feedback, making it easier to develop precise control over these expressive techniques. The larger key surface also gives you more room for subtle gestural control, which can be particularly valuable when working with complex MPE sounds.
Beyond the keyboard improvements, ROLI Piano adds practical connectivity features including a sustain pedal input and MIDI output for connecting external hardware. It's currently available for pre-order at a substantial discount and includes the same ROLI Studio software bundle with over 400 presets. With six hours of wireless battery life and the option to pair with ROLI's Airwave system for gesture control, the Piano represents a step up in both playability and connectivity for those who want a more traditional keyboard feel without sacrificing expressive control.
Like Piano M, ROLI Piano pairs with the ROLI Learn app, helping you learn your favourite songs and pick up musical fundamentals along the way, making it a perfect musical keyboard for beginners.
Nektar SE
The Nektar SE range offers controllers in 25, 49, and 61-key configurations, positioning itself as a budget-conscious option that focuses on essential features rather than bells and whistles. The keys use standard synth-action with velocity sensitivity, and the controllers include basic pitch and mod wheels, plus a selection of assignable knobs and buttons for software control. While the build quality reflects the lower price point, the SE series covers the fundamental requirements for MIDI control without unnecessary complexity.
What distinguishes the Nektar SE controllers is their emphasis on broad DAW compatibility and straightforward operation. They work reliably across different software platforms and include Nektar's own DAW integration templates, which can help streamline your workflow regardless of which production software you choose. The SE range provides a no-frills approach to MIDI control that may appeal if you're looking for basic functionality at an accessible price point.
ROLI Seaboard M
ROLI Seaboard M represents a completely different approach to musical control, replacing traditional keys with 24 miniature Keywaves that respond to five dimensions of touch. This isn't a conventional electric keyboard for beginners — it's a continuous touch surface that transforms natural playing gestures like slides, vibrato, and pressure changes into musical expression. It may be an unorthodox way to get started, but if you're interested in pushing beyond the limitations of traditional keyboard controllers, Seaboard M opens up creative possibilities that simply don't exist elsewhere. Start as you mean to go on, we say.
The learning curve is significant, as Seaboard M requires developing entirely new playing techniques. However, this investment can pay off with the ability to create authentic articulations for any instrument — from violin vibrato to flute trills — or develop completely original expressive techniques. The Five Dimensions of Touch (Strike, Press, Glide, Slide, and Lift) allow each finger to manipulate sound independently, creating polyphonic expression that goes far beyond what mod wheels or pitch bend can achieve.
Like Piano M, Seaboard M offers up to 10 hours of wireless operation and can connect multiple units via magnetic connectors. It includes ROLI Studio with over 200 presets designed specifically for its unique capabilities, and can even pair with ROLI's Airwave system to add gesture control in 3D space. Seaboard M is best suited for adventurous beginners who want to explore entirely new forms of musical expression, rather than those seeking familiar keyboard playing experiences.
M-Audio Keystation
The M-Audio Keystation series offers no-frills MIDI control across a wide range of sizes, from 49 to 88 keys, with full-size semi-weighted keys that provide a more substantial playing feel than many budget alternatives. These controllers strip away most extras to focus purely on keyboard performance, featuring velocity-sensitive keys with decent action and basic pitch and mod wheels. While you won't find pads, knobs, or fancy displays, this simplicity keeps costs down and reliability high.
What sets the Keystation apart is its focus on players who want a traditional keyboard feel without paying for features they won't use. The semi-weighted keys offer more resistance than typical synth-action controllers, making them better suited if you're looking for piano-style playing and expressive performances. The larger models include sustain pedal inputs and the build quality is solid throughout the range, making them dependable workhorses whether you're in the studio or on stage.
The Keystation series comes with basic software bundles that vary by model, typically including Pro Tools First and a selection of virtual instruments. The controllers work plug-and-play with most DAWs and provide straightforward MIDI control without complex setup procedures. If you want even more portability, M-Audio also offers the Keystation Mini with 32 mini-keys, providing the same reliable approach in a more compact format for mobile production setups.
Korg microKEY
The Korg microKEY series represents one of the most minimalist approaches to MIDI control, available in 25, 37, 49, and 61-key configurations that prioritize portability and simplicity above all else. These controllers feature velocity-sensitive keys with a lightweight synth-action feel and essentially nothing else — no knobs, no pads, no faders, just keys. This stripped-down approach makes them extremely compact and affordable, but also means you'll be doing most of your parameter control through software.
What the microKEY lacks in physical controls, it makes up for in pure portability and reliability. The ultra-slim profile makes it genuinely laptop-bag friendly, and the straightforward USB bus power operation means there are fewer things that can go wrong. The microKEY comes with basic bundled software and works well if you already have software instruments you want to control, or if you prefer to choose your own virtual instruments rather than being tied to a specific manufacturer's ecosystem.
Alesis V Series
The Alesis V Series covers a wide range of sizes from 25 to 61 keys, positioning itself as one of the most affordable entry points into MIDI control. The controllers feature velocity-sensitive keys with basic synth-action and include essential controls like pitch and mod wheels, plus a selection of assignable knobs and buttons. While the build quality is basic and reflects the budget pricing, the V Series provides functional MIDI control for those who need to keep costs minimal.
What sets the V Series apart is its focus on delivering core functionality without extras that drive up the price. The controllers include basic pads for triggering samples and drums, though these aren't backlit or as responsive as those found on more expensive models. If you're just starting out and want to test whether keyboard-style control works for your workflow, the V Series offers a low-risk way to experiment without significant financial commitment.
The software bundle is modest compared to other manufacturers, typically including basic versions of production software and a limited selection of sounds. However, the V Series controllers work reliably with all major DAWs and provide standard MIDI control that's compatible with any software instruments you might already own or plan to purchase. If all you want is a basic musical keyboard for beginners, the V Series gives you hands-on control without paying for premium features.
IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2
The IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2 range focuses on ultra-portability and mobile music creation, available in 25 and 37-key configurations that are designed primarily for use with tablets and smartphones. These controllers are extremely lightweight and compact, with mini-keys that feel basic but functional, and they're powered directly through Lightning, USB-C, or micro-USB connections depending on your device. If you're interested in making music on the go with mobile apps, the iRig Keys 2 series offers one of the most streamlined solutions available.
What makes the iRig Keys 2 particularly appealing for mobile production is its plug-and-play compatibility with iOS and Android devices, along with a comprehensive software bundle that includes multiple IK Multimedia apps and instruments. The controllers include basic pitch and mod controls, plus programmable knobs for real-time parameter adjustment. While the build quality is clearly designed to prioritize portability over premium feel, the keys are velocity-sensitive and provide adequate response for mobile music creation.
The iRig Keys 2 works with desktop computers as well, but its real strength lies in mobile production scenarios where you want to sketch ideas on a tablet or create complete tracks using mobile DAWs. The included software provides immediate access to professional-quality sounds and production tools that are optimized for the controller's capabilities. If you're drawn to the idea of producing music anywhere with just a tablet and a compact controller, the iRig Keys 2 series offers a genuinely portable solution, though the compromises in key feel and build quality mean it's best suited for mobile-first workflows rather than primary studio use.
Roland A-49
The Roland A-49 has been a fixture in the MIDI controller market for many years, representing Roland's straightforward approach to keyboard control with 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys. This controller focuses on essential functionality with a clean, minimalist design that includes basic pitch and mod controls, along with a handful of assignable buttons and knobs. While it may not offer the extensive control surfaces or modern features found on newer models, the A-49's longevity in the market speaks to its reliability and effectiveness as a simple MIDI keyboard.
What sets the A-49 apart is Roland's attention to key feel and build quality, areas where the company's keyboard expertise shows through even in their more affordable controllers. The keys have a solid, responsive action that feels more substantial than many competitors in its price range, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions. If you're looking for a no-nonsense controller that prioritizes playability over bells and whistles, the A-49's focus on fundamental keyboard performance remains relevant despite its age.
The A-49 comes with basic software and integrates smoothly with most DAWs through standard MIDI protocols. While it lacks the comprehensive software bundles and advanced features of newer controllers, this simplicity can be an advantage if you prefer to choose your own instruments and effects rather than being tied to a manufacturer's ecosystem. The A-49 represents a time-tested approach to MIDI control that continues to serve users who value straightforward functionality and dependable performance over cutting-edge features.
