Next up, we also recommend the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 (opens in new tab). It has instant support for Ableton Live, and handy creative tools like an arpeggiator and chord memory function. In the compact corner, because of the sheer number of features crammed into such a light, small footprint, our first recommendation is the Novation LaunchKey Mini Mk3 (opens in new tab). MIDI controller keyboards tend to fall into size categories: compact, portable devices with 25 keys larger, desk-based options with 49 or more keys and then 88-note keyboards aimed at ‘pro’ players. If you need more guidance, head to the buying advice section at the bottom of the page. Our price comparison widgets have found the best deals online right now, too. Next up, we detail our top MIDI keyboard picks, after which we have more in-depth reviews of each of the models in our buyer’s guide to help you find the right one. And if you are a trained keyboard player, you might want to consider an 88-note model with weighted keys – we have also included some of these in our guide. It might well be a little more rugged, too something to consider if you want to take it on the road. You can get a perfectly decent cheap MIDI keyboard for way less than $/£100 if you shop around, but up your spend even slightly and you'll get your hands on a higher quality model with more features and higher specs. Many of the best MIDI keyboards also come with mapping templates for the most popular DAWs - Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, etc - making it easy to get up and running and start producing music right out of the box. And talking of software, most MIDI keyboards include good value software bundles, and we have listed the highlights with each keyboard. Most options we recommend here also come with additional features such as knobs, pads, buttons and faders to boost creativity and give you even more control over your software. You can opt for a compact, portable MIDI keyboard that fits comfortably in a laptop bag, or you can go all-in with a full-size 88-note model with weighted hammer-action keys. There are plenty of models to choose from. They are mostly used to let you play and record with your DAW's software instruments and any VST synth plugins you might have installed. They can be plugged directly into your computer or laptop via USB - or, in some cases, operate wirelessly over Bluetooth or connect to iOS devices to control apps.

MIDI controller keyboards not only enable you to play and record tunes into your computer, they also let you control software - and in some cases, other studio hardware - so have become one of the most essential items for the modern music producer.

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