Best MIDI Keyboards in 2020

Have you been into music for a long time or just started? Need a new assistant to make your music creation and composing process easier? Then we recommend reading our article. It will tell you about the best midi - keyboards.

What is a midi keyboard?

It is a digital instrument that records the sounds of various instruments and allows you to quickly control recording programs. The musician will be able to create drums and keyboards and use the sequencer with ease.

It is important to remember that the keyboard does not have speakers that can produce sound. Accordingly, you need to connect to a computer where special programs are already installed.

How is it different from a synthesizer?

• the functionality of the keyboard is more meager, and also cannot be used without additional devices (computer);
• the synthesizer is an independent device, but as additional functions it can also be connected to a PC, but basically no auxiliary equipment is needed for its functioning.

Why then buy a keyboard if the synthesizer fully copes with its tasks?

Cons and pros of MIDI keyboards

• miniature size - for a small studio this is the most suitable option;
• cost - it is logical that even the most expensive keyboard will cost less than a professional synthesizer;
• quality - since the only important thing in this device is the keyboard itself, therefore, manufacturers need to pay more attention to only one detail;
• simplicity - when connecting to a PC there will be no so many problems as when working with a synthesizer;

• it's just a dummy if you don't use a PC.

It's time to review our ranking of the very best MIDI keyboards.

Top 7 MIDI Keyboards for Beginning Musicians in 2020

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3

1 place

Convenient and pleasant device to work with. Suitable for recording voices.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	32
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	absent
average price	RUB 6000

• design;
• compactness;
• cost;
• backlight.

• does not work with MacBook;
• small key travel.

The technique is suitable for recording individual short musical phrases, parts. For beginners, one of the most suitable options. It will turn out to fill your hand and understand the principle of work.

Roland A-49

2nd place

High-quality four-octave equipment, which will become an excellent assistant in filling the accompaniment of any music and selecting notes.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 13,000

• responsive;
• high-quality assembly;
• connects to everything;
• infrared control sensor;
• sensitivity;
• design;
• obedient;
• easy to use.

• No downsides were found when using.

Full value for money. It is a real pleasure to play on such a device.

KORG nanoKEY2

3rd place

The model is very sensitive to touch, and the keys are made in such a way that it is impossible to hit the wrong note.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	absent
average price	4600 RUB

• dimensions;
• quality;
• convenient to take with you;
• cost.

• The buyers did not find any drawbacks when using the device.

This device is particularly durable and easy to use.

AKAI LPK25

4th place

A compact model that will help aspiring musicians express themselves. The device has 4 memory cells for storing user settings, which is very convenient for constant use.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	absent
average price	RUB 5,000

• lightweight;
• two full aftermath (despite the miniature size);
• work without drivers;
• arpeggio function.

• narrow keys.

It will be perfect for beginners to get their hands on. It is difficult to beat the drums without using additional devices (in this case, a computer mouse).

Acorn Masterkey 61

5th place

The full-size five-octave keyboard fits into even the tightest of spaces.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 9,000

• good build;
• advanced midi functions;
• the ability to shift the keyboard range;
• the wheels of modulation and pitch changes are rubberized, so the likelihood of a musician losing control over control is reduced to zero;
• convenient to connect.

• not entirely reliable key mounting.

This model will fit well on the musician's desktop. With it, you can create incredible pieces, because the manufacturer has added everything the performer needs to the device.

IK Multimedia iRig Keys 37

6th place

The device works great with all PCs and even Macs (this is rare for the budget price category). Connection to a mobile phone is possible. Expression and sustain pedal holes are also provided.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	37
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 6000

• work comfortably;
• high-quality assembly;
• the size;
• the presence of pitch and modulation;
• lightweight;
• does not require driver configuration.

• cheap assembly material;
• high price.

The surface is sufficiently sensitive, so there are no problems when working. Upon purchase, samples of various instruments are given as a gift.

Alesis V25

7th place

A powerful tool to help you manage many music softwares. Eight pads let you play drum parts and record various clips.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 10,000

• the size;
• comfortable key diameter;
• softness when pressed;
• smooth "twists";
• does not slip;
• soft lighting.

• the pads are scratching.

The device works without interruptions with the best programs (Ableton Live and XPAND! 2). The body of the gadget itself is so compact that it fits into any place.

So, for beginners, the market offers a sufficient number of MIDI keyboards in the middle price segment.

Consider the rating of equipment for professional musicians.

Top 6 Best MIDI Keyboards for Professionals in 2020

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49

1 place

The device has silicone keys that respond to various types of touches and impacts. In addition, the degree of sensitivity can be adjusted if desired. And with the built-in Bluetooth module, use becomes even easier.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	USB Type A, B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 111,000

• 5 D Touch technology;
• many sounds;
• set of software;
• the ability to play wirelessly;
• reliable assembly;
• durable.

• cost;
• lack of power supply.

The gadget helps realize even the most sophisticated fantasies of the musician. Sounds can be changed as you wish: deepen, bend, and so on.

Akai mpk mini mk2

2nd place

Miniature and functional keyboard. Contrary to its size, it offers as many as 8 twists, excellent pads.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 13,000

• functional;
• pads;
• faders;
• dimensions;
• availability of software that configures the controller.

• no support in "fl";
• plastic case.

Full compliance with price - quality. The device fully justifies its cost. He copes with all the tasks.

Novation Impulse 61

3rd place

Musicians are delighted with the functionality of the technique and the degree of integration with other applications.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	MIDI in, MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 30,000

• pleasant instrument surface;
• powerful functionality;
• reliable;
• multitasking.

• soft pitch knob;
• too sensitive pads.

Technique helps to create such music that everyone is amazed at its sound. The controller also helps to bind various buttons, twists, which will allow the performer to work in any direction.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 61

4th place

The device features total integration with DAW. A bonus for the musician is the "Chord play" function, with which you can play chords with just one button.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 20,000

• functional;
• design;
• good software included.

• short wire;

The LCD display allows you to view the Analog Lab presets.

M-Audio Code 61

5th place

The keyboard amazes everyone with its design, huge variety of controllers and aftertouch function.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	MIDI in, MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 32400

• comfortable use;
• appearance;
• there are no configuration problems;
• separate editor;
• the ability to switch octaves separately from the pads.

• some buttons make sounds when pressed.

An excellent device for professional musicians. With him it is possible to create beats, various kinds of melodies.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 49

6th place

The manufacturer used synthesizer mechanics that are velocity sensitive.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 22,500

• high-quality case;
• Moderately sensitive pads;
• design;
• the size;
• good software included.

• tight pads.

The controls are conveniently located on the keyboard. For the most comfortable use, the equipment was equipped with the "Chord" function.

Thus, professional MIDI keyboards differ in many ways from similar devices for beginners. Moreover, the cost varies from medium to high price segment.

Not everyone can afford to open a studio, so you have to work at home and create your own home studio. Let's take a look at the rating of popular MIDI keyboards for the home studio.

Top 4 Best MIDI Keyboards for Home Studios in 2020

Akai MPK249

1 place

A device that combines full software integration and advanced performance for the musician.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 46,000

• responsive pads;
• functionality;
• backlight;
• comfortable use.

• Buyers found no downsides.

With the built-in arpeggiator, you can turn any ideas into reality. The manufacturer also pleased with two sound layers, which allows you to form an individual base for each patch.

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49

2nd place

An unusual bonus of the device is the touch-sensitive non-stop controller. In addition, this model offers users a fully customizable arpeggiator mode.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 63,200

• good integration with all settings;
• fast automation;
• does not slow down;
• backlight;
• possibility of free assignment of midi.

• few faders.

The manufacturer has created such a model that a musician can use a keyboard without a sequencer. The special program to be installed works like a synthesizer in combination with the keyboard.

IK Multimedia iRig Keys PRO

3rd place

Compact model, but with full-size three octave keys for comfortable work at home.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	37
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 9500

• the size;
• appearance;
• functional;
• software.

• Not found.

A good option for a home studio. Small, functional and fully optimized model.

Nektar Impact LX88 +

4th place

88 semi-weighted keys that have incredible touch sensitivity. Musicians are given the opportunity to divide the panel itself into levels, and the Grab mode allows you to set the parameters of the instruments of various controls.

Parameters	Characteristic
Number of keys	88
Connection	MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	RUB 29,000

• functional;
• pads;
• faders;
• the ability to store 5 user presets;
• transposition;
• Pitch bend controller available;
• appearance;
• a huge number of programs with which the device is integrated.

• big size;
• weighs a lot.

This technique will become an indispensable aid in creating and correcting music. A colorful three-digit LED display is also a bonus to the look.

So, models for a home studio do not differ much from the previous options in our rating, but they still have some peculiarities.

How to choose the right one?

When buying, you should pay attention to:

1. Connection type. The year is 2020 and therefore it is worth buying such equipment only with a USB connection. If it is just a MIDI cable, then problems are assured.
2. Determine the required number of keys and octaves. If the technique is purchased for a home studio, then 2 to 6 octaves (this is 20, 30, 40 or 60) is quite enough. For a more advanced level, you can purchase a device for more than 80.
3. Pay attention to the pads, the faders, and the modulation wheel and pitch wheel;
4. They do not recommend taking a keyboard with joysticks instead of wheels, those who have been making music for a long time say that it is inconvenient to work with them (but everything is individual);
5. When buying, special attention should be paid to the sensitivity of the device - this affects the sound quality;
6. Remember that pedals can be built-in or you have to buy them separately.

Thus, the market offers a huge number of MIDI keyboards. In addition, now many online stores offer discounts on their purchase, so we advise you to look through the ratings again and choose an assistant for yourself in music creation.