Best Midi Keyboard Controllers

A MIDI controller is an essential piece of equipment for anyone interested in making his or her own digital music. Unlike traditional synthesizers, most MIDI controllers lack their own amplification systems—in other words, rather than using a MIDI controller in the same way you would use an older keyboard with a set of internal speakers, to use a MIDI controller, you’ll probably need to run it through another device, whether it’s a computer and its speaker system or a synthesizer. As such, high-end MIDI controllers are designed for and generally sold to serious digital musicians. If that describes you, let’s help you find the best controller available.

Electronic Musical Instruments: Perhaps the most straightforward form of music synthesizers, electronic musical instruments are electronic versions of standard instruments—keyboards, drum sets, and so on. They are versatile pieces of equipment that are capable of being used as instruments on their own or being plugged into other devices.

Pitch-to-MIDI Converters: These devices take sounds created by instruments or voices and convert them into MIDI sounds.

Grid Controllers: For users with the right amount of experience, grid controllers offer an excellent amount of control—instead of creating one or two sounds at a time, use the grid keys to work up to 64 different lines, music clips, and other elements into your electronic composition.

Step Sequencers: Often resembling traditional mixing equipment, step sequencers allow users to integrate different elements into their compositions while at the same time controlling pitch, speed, and volume.

Customers who have purchased MIDI controllers have several criteria for determining the best models. Here are the some of the key ones:

Musical Versatility: Customers who purchase MIDI controllers want devices that allow them to do a lot of different things with their music. Top brands perform a lot of musical functions well, while decent brands might offer fewer options but still do a good job with them.

Responsiveness: The top controllers have keys that are responsive to the user's touch. While they aren’t going to be as sensitive as, say, piano keys, the keys on a MIDI controller should respond readily to your fingers.

Compatibility: The best brands are able to work with different music programs and operating systems. Reviewers who praise their controllers often point to having the ability to switch back and forth between programs, while a lack of easy compatibility is seen as a con for some controllers, even if their owners like them overall.

USB Connections: Since it’s a device that’s designed to be plugged into computers, it makes sense that a good USB connection is important. Surprisingly, some brands struggle with this, and critical reviews often point to problems with connecting the controller to the user’s computer or other devices. 

When selecting the best MIDI controller for you, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Variety of Functions: If you have a lot of experience with digital music, you will be able to take advantage of all of the bells and whistles that come with higher-end models. They might cost more, but you’ll be in a position to get the most value for your money out of them. If you’re just starting out, a more basic model can be a great way to work your way into digital music—you can always move up to a more advanced controller when you’re ready to get the most out of it.
• Ease of Use: Some controllers are so straightforward that they’re virtually plug-and-play—plug the system into your computer and you’re almost ready to go. With others, you might need to install one or more programs to get started. Some MIDI programs can be fairly complicated to use, so make sure to pay attention to product reviews and go for a model that fits your technological comfort level.
• Space: Some controllers fit on top of a desk, while others are the size of more traditional digital keyboards. Think about how much studio space you have—if you’re working in a small space, then one of the larger models might not be best for you, even if it has appealing features.
• Price: When you start shopping for any piece of electronic equipment, you’ll find a wide range of prices. MIDI controllers are no exception. As such, it’s well worth asking yourself how you plan to use the device, what you hope to get out of it, and how much you're willing to pay. If you’re a beginner or casual hobbyist, there are good models available at lower prices. If you’re a professional or digital music enthusiast, a higher-end (and therefore more expensive) model might be the best fit for your needs.

M-Audio: M-Audio is an American leader in electronic music products, and has been since its founding in 1998. The company was sold to Avid Technology in 2003 and inMusic in 2012, but has maintained high production standards; its products are used by some of the most famous acts in a number of musical genres.

Novation: Novation is a British manufacturer that has focused on digital music since 1992. Although they also produce digital keyboards, from the very beginning Novation has produced MIDI controllers of all kinds.

Arturia: Arturia is a French digital music company that was founded in 1999 with the goal of producing affordable equipment and software. One of the company’s goals is to bridge the gap between the past and the present, and many of their products integrate older technologies with advanced software and hardware.

Korg: Of the companies on this list, the Japanese manufacturer Korg has the longest history by far. Korg has been making electronic music equipment since 1962, when it made its first keyboard synthesizer. The company has been an industry leader for decades, helped by its longtime association with Yamaha.