The Best MIDI Controllers 2024

Updated On September 11th, 2022

Looking for the best MIDI Controllers? You aren't short of choices in 2022. The difficult bit is deciding the best MIDI Controllers for you, but luckily that's where we can help. Based on testing out in the field with reviews, sells etc, we've created this ranked list of the finest MIDI Controllers.

Rank Product Name Score
1
Uno

Uno

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100%
2
M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 Premium Keyboard and Pad VIP Controller

M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 Premium Keyboard and Pad VIP Controller

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100%
3
Akai MPK49 MIDI Keyboard

Akai MPK49 MIDI Keyboard

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80%
4
Akai Professional LPK25 | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Akai Professional LPK25 | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

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0%
5
M-Audio Oxygen 88 MIDI Controller

M-Audio Oxygen 88 MIDI Controller

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0%
6
Line 6 Mobile Keys MIDI Keyboard

Line 6 Mobile Keys MIDI Keyboard

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0%
7
AMERICAN DJ VERSA DECK TABLE TOP USB SOFTWARE CONTROLLER W/ TWO CHANNEL MIXER

AMERICAN DJ VERSA DECK TABLE TOP USB SOFTWARE CONTROLLER W/ TWO CHANNEL MIXER

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0%
8
Alesis QX25 25-Key Advanced MIDI Keyboard Controller

Alesis QX25 25-Key Advanced MIDI Keyboard Controller

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0%
9
M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk3 Ignite

M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk3 Ignite

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0%
10
Rocktron MIDI Mate Controller Pedal

Rocktron MIDI Mate Controller Pedal

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0%

1. Uno

Uno
100%

Our Score

1 In / 1 Out MIDI Interface

Uno

2. M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 Premium Keyboard and Pad VIP Controller

M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 Premium Keyboard and Pad VIP Controller
100%

Our Score

The M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 USB MIDI Keyboard is designed for mobile studio and live performance applications. The compact USB powered controller features 32 velocity sensitive keys, pitch bend, and modulation buttons, octave/transpose controls, a sustain button, an edit button for changing MIDI assignments, directional navigation buttons, transport controls, eight MIDI knobs, eight velocity sensitive trigger pads with two selectable banks, a Kensington lock for security, and four selectable operation modes. The controller can be used in HyperControl volume mode where the knobs control the volume levels of selected tracks in your DAW, HyperControl Pan mode where the knobs control panning position, and HyperControl Inst/FX mode for controlling effect plug-in parameters. In MIDI mode, all the controls of the unit will send MIDI messages that the user can assign.

Features: M-Audio Axiom AIR Mini 32 USB MIDI Controller 32 velocity sensing mini-keys with selectable touch curves 8 dynamic drum pads, with 2 Banks for added versatility Drum pad learn feature makes it easy to assign patches to trigger pads Interactive HyperControl® provides effortless controller mapping Assignable controls with front-panel programming 8 knobs, 3 dedicated transport controls, 5 navigation buttons, Ten memory locations for saving your custom settings Dedicated pitch bend, modulation, and sustain performance buttons Octave / Transpose buttons provide access to the entire note range Includes Ignite music creation software Class-compliant with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Mac OS X Ignite Music Creation Software Seamless M-Audio keyboard integration Unique musician-centric workflow Capture ideas quickly—with professional results Easily combine and arrange individual recordings Intuitive graphic interface aids production Smart MIDI Chord and Phrase Players Easy sharing and collaboration via SoundCloud Export WAV and MIDI files for use with any DAW Size: 15.6 X 7.7 X 1.5 inches System Requirements: Ignite Minimum System Requirements (PC): Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate (Service Pack 1) or higher Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz processor 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended) 1 GB hard drive space; additional 3 GB required for optional Expansion Packs 5400 RPM hard drive 1 available USB port for included hardware * A broadband internet connection is required to download the software Ignite Minimum System Requirements (Mac): Mac OS X 10.3.3 – 10.3.7 Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz processor 5400 RPM hard drive 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended) 1 GB hard drive space; additional 3 GB required for optional Expansion Packs 1 available USB port for included hardware * A broadband internet connection is required to download the software

3. Akai MPK49 MIDI Keyboard

Akai MPK49 MIDI Keyboard
80%

Our Score

Maximize musical ideas on-stage or in the studio with the new Akai MPK49 performance controller. The Akai MPK49 ushers in a new era for USB/MIDI controllers by combining a high-quality, 49-key, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch and 12 genuine MPC drum pads. 48 total pads are accessible via 4 pad banks. The pads feature the heart and soul of hip hop: the MPC Note Repeat function and Swing parameters. The Akai MPK49 Performance Controller also has its own arpeggiator, for creating quick, creative riffs in seconds.

Akai MPK49 MIDI Keyboard Screen Type: LCD Screen Type: LCD Maximum Number of Keys: 49 USB: Yes Maximum Number of Keys: 49 USB: Yes

4. Akai Professional LPK25 | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Akai Professional LPK25 | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
0%

Our Score

Akai LPK25 Laptop USB MIDI Controller

Melodic performance in the palm of your hand The LPK25 laptop performance keyboard is a USB-MIDI controller for musicians, producers, DJs and other music creators. It measures less than 13 inches across and weighs less than a pound to easily fit into a laptop case, backpack or messenger bag for extreme portability. Keyboard players who want to work with software on their computer will find that the LPK25 gives their laptop the keys they need to express themselves anywhere. The LPK25 is a scaled-down relative to the MPK series of keyboard performance controllers. The diminutive keyboard is made up of 25 miniature, velocity-sensitive keyboard keys with synth action. The LPK25 contains an arpeggiator, which steps through chords automatically, assisting musicians with creating quick melodic ideas. Sustain, octave up and down and tap tempo controls round out the LPK25's easy-to-learn layout. The LPDK25 works plug and play with Mac and PC and requires no software driver installation or wall power for operation. It has four memory banks for programming and recalling settings appropriate to different software programs you use. Create melodic and harmonic riffs in seconds, anywhere, with the LPK25. Features: USB-MIDI controller works with virtually all audio software 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard keys Arpeggiator, sustain button, octave up and down, and tap tempo controls Plug-and-play USB connection for Mac and PC requires no driver installation Small enough to fit in a backpack or laptop bag Four programmable memory banks Send note information or program changes from keys Comes with editor software for Mac and PC USB bus powered - no additional power cable needed

5. M-Audio Oxygen 88 MIDI Controller

M-Audio Oxygen 88 MIDI Controller
0%

Our Score

The M-Audio Oxygen 88 USB MIDI controller delivers a highly expressive playing experience that's designed to satisfy players who need the feel of a piano combined with the power of a modern MIDI controller. The 88-note, graded hammer-action keybed offers an impressive feel and response—while 32 assignable buttons, knobs, and faders provide complete control over your music software. DirectLink mode automatically maps these onboard controls to common DAW functions including transport, mixer, track pan, and plug-in parameters. Built-in presets offer support for popular virtual instruments right out of the box—no complicated setup required. Featuring an unparalleled combination of great feel, total control, and ease of use, Oxygen 88 is the perfect choice for both studio and stage. M-Audio carefully designed the Oxygen 88 keyboard to emulate the feel and response of an acoustic piano. Graded hammer action means that the keys are slightly heavier in the bass and lighter in the treble areas—just like the real thing. We've also incorporated 4 highly musical velocity curves, so you can choose the one that best suits your playing style. In addition, Oxygen 88 includes 3 pedal inputs so you can incorporate 2 sustain pedals and one expression pedal for total piano-style control over your performance. Streamlined Session Compatibility Featuring 32 assignable knobs, faders, buttons, and transport controls, Oxygen 88 gives you total control over your session. Dedicated Track up/down buttons let you navigate from track to track at the touch of a button—allowing you to stay engaged in the creative flow of recording and mixing music rather than going back and forth between QWERTY keyboard and MIDI controller. DirectLink mode automatically maps Oxygen 88 controls to common DAW parameters*—while factory presets provide instant mapping to popular virtual instruments including Xpand!2, Hybrid, Velvet, Strike, Oddity, ImpOSCar, and MiniMonsta. Use the dedicated Select buttons to quickly switch MIDI channels and presets for deep tactile control over multitimbral hardware and software instruments. Interfacing a MIDI controller with your software doesn't get any easier than this. Pro Tools Compatible The Oxygen 88 MIDI controller offers out-of-the-box integration with Pro Tools software—the industry-standard DAW found in professional, project, and personal studios around the world. With DirectLink, the Oxygen 88 controls instantly map to key parameters in the Pro Tools Mixer, Edit, and Transport windows—as well as the powerful suite of virtual instruments bundled with Pro Tools. Together, Oxygen 88 and Pro Tools software provide a streamlined workflow in a formidable system with tons of interface options and industry-standard file compatibility. Total Control Beyond the knobs, faders, and buttons, Oxygen 88 delivers a host of other controls to help unleash your creativity. Assignable pitch bend and mod wheels add feeling and expression to your performance. 4 customizable zones with dedicated buttons enable you to layer sounds, split the keyboard, and create huge, stacked patches. T3 unique select buttons make it easy to step through presets, program changes, and MIDI channels on the fly. Dedicated track up/down buttons let you quickly navigate tracks in your DAW, while 2 dedicated snapshot buttons instantly send parameters to your software. Dedicated transpose/octave buttons complete the package. Professional Quality M-Audio pioneered the mobile MIDI keyboard controller category, and continues to be one of the best-selling names in the game. Thanks to continued innovation over the course of nearly a decade, you'll find that the Oxygen 88 controller has a solid, reliable build—and puts as much musicality into the keyboard as it does into the complement of other MIDI controls. And, since it's lightweight for

The M-Audio Oxygen 88 USB MIDI controller delivers a highly expressive playing experience that's designed to satisfy players who need the feel of a piano combined with the power of a modern MIDI controller The 88-note, graded hammer-action keybed offers an impressive feel and response—while 32 assignable buttons, knobs, and faders provide complete control over your music software DirectLink mode automatically maps these onboard controls to common DAW functions including transport, mixer,

6. Line 6 Mobile Keys MIDI Keyboard

Line 6 Mobile Keys MIDI Keyboard
0%

Our Score

Premium Keyboard Controllers Enjoy an exceptional playing experience on your iOS device, Mac and PC. Perfect for GarageBand & More Get more from GarageBand and other CoreMIDI multi-track studios, virtual instruments, and drum machines.

Line 6 Mobile Keys MIDI Keyboard Maximum Number of Keys: 25 Key Size Type: Full USB: Yes Maximum Number of Keys: 25 Key Size Type: Full USB: Yes

7. AMERICAN DJ VERSA DECK TABLE TOP USB SOFTWARE CONTROLLER W/ TWO CHANNEL MIXER

AMERICAN DJ VERSA DECK TABLE TOP USB SOFTWARE CONTROLLER W/ TWO CHANNEL MIXER
0%

Our Score

The AMERICAN DJ Versadeck is a 2-channel Midi Controller that includes Virtual DJ LE software so you can start DJing right out of the box. Versadeck includes a built-in 4x4 Audio interface, two USB slots for thumb drives or hard drives *, two microphone inputs and XLR balanced outputs. Versadeck main functions include: 5 On-board effects (Echo, Flange, Filter, Skid, Scratch), Auto BPM Counter, 3-Band EQ with push Kills, Key lock, 4 Hot Cue or Loop Buttons, Relay Playback and a wide pitch adjustment of -100%. The large, bright VFD display allows the DJ to see the screen from a wide angle and features 2 lines of text for track name and other Info, and a variety of important screen functions to keep you in the mix.

AMERICAN DJ VERSA DECK TABLE TOP USB SOFTWARE CONTROLLER W/ TWO CHANNEL MIXER

8. Alesis QX25 25-Key Advanced MIDI Keyboard Controller

Alesis QX25 25-Key Advanced MIDI Keyboard Controller
0%

Our Score

Alesis' QX25 makes it easy to take commanding, tactile control over any parameter of your favorite music software. Using the included USB cable, the QX25 receives power while also transmitting MIDI data to your Mac, PC or iOS* software, or MIDI hardware device of choice. Punch out a drumbeat on its four easy-to-use pads, open up a filter with its 8 smooth and tight knobs, or adjust volume and playback of sequencing software with its long fader and snappy buttons. The QX25's immense parameter control and velocity-sensitive 25-key keyboard get your hands off of the mouse and into the action for a more efficient, visceral music-making experience. The QX25's 25-note keyboard means its pitch range is perfect for performing with software instruments and samplers while still remaining highly portable. Plus, it provides keyboard players with a full compliment of controls including pitch and modulation wheels, octave up/down buttons and the ability to send program changes directly from the keys. The QX25's keyboard can even be split into sections to control multiple instruments at once. The array of assignable controls on the QX25 works with virtually all music software and MIDI hardware devices. Whether you're looking to fire drum samples, tweak a software synthesizer or adjust individual tracks in a mix, the its extensive layout ensures appropriate feel and proper response with its sliders and rotary knobs, backlit drum pads, and dedicated transport controls. Ableton Enabled The QX25 comes with Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition software for performing, recording, and sequencing music right out of the box. This customized version of Ableton Live provides a fresh and easy way to create music. You'll get audio recording and production capabilities as well as powerful tools for live performance.

Alesis' QX25 makes it easy to take commanding, tactile control over any parameter of your favorite music software Using the included USB cable, the QX25 receives power while also transmitting MIDI data to your Mac, PC or iOS* software, or MIDI hardware device of choice Punch out a drumbeat on its four easy-to-use pads, open up a filter with its 8 smooth and tight knobs, or adjust volume and playback of sequencing software with its long fader and snappy buttons The QX25's immense parameter

9. M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk3 Ignite

M-Audio Oxygen 61 Mk3 Ignite
0%

Our Score

The Oxygen 61 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller delivers the same functionality as the previous version, but includes a copy of the powerful Ignite music creation software. The Oxygen 61 features 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable sliders, plus dedicated transport and track select buttons. DirectLink mode automatically maps these controls to common DAW functions including transport, mixer, track pan, and plug-in parameters. Built-in factory presets offer support for popular virtual instruments right out of the box so there's no complicated setup required. Velocity-sensitive keys and a sleek, compact design round out a portable keyboard that's perfect for both production and performance. No other MIDI controller in this price range has so much functionality while remaining easy to use. Streamlined session control: Featuring 8 assignable knobs, 9 assignable sliders, dedicated transport controls, and track up and down buttons, the M-Audio Oxygen 61 keyboard gives you total control over your session, allowing you to stay engaged in the creative flow of recording and mixing music rather than being interrupted by the constant back and forth between a QWERTY keyboard and a MIDI controller. DirectLink mode automatically maps Oxygen 61 controls to common DAW parameters while factory presets provide instant mapping to popular virtual instruments including Xpand!2, Hybrid, Velvet, Strike, Oddity, ImpOSCar, and MiniMonsta. Use the dedicated select buttons to quickly switch MIDI channels and presets for tactile control over multitimbral hardware and software instruments. Interfacing a MIDI controller with your music software doesn't get any easier than this. Professional quality: M-Audio is a pioneer in the category of mobile MIDI keyboard controllers. Thanks to continued innovation over the course of nearly a decade, you'll find that the Oxygen 61 controller has a solid, reliable build and puts as much musicality into the keyboard as it does into the complement of other MIDI controls. Pro Tools compatible: The M-Audio Oxygen 61 MIDI controller offers out-of-the-box integration with Pro Tools software, which is the industry-standard DAW found in professional, project, and personal studios around the world. With DirectLink, the Oxygen 61 controls instantly map to key parameters on the Pro Tools Mixer, Edit and Transport windows, as well as the powerful suite of virtual instruments bundled with Pro Tools. Together, Oxygen 61 and Pro Tools software provide streamlined workflow in a formidable system with tons of interface options and industry-standard file compatibility. Get Ignite: Ignite provides a refreshingly original and musician-centric way to craft music. Quickly capture, combine, and arrange your musical ideas. Ignite offers seamless integration with your M-Audio keyboard controller, with no set-up chores to perform. Get Ableton Live Lite: Write songs, make beats, record, remix, DJ and perform. Ableton Live Lite includes all the essentials that have made Ableton Live an industry-standard software for production and performance. Click here to get your copy of Ableton Live Lite.

The Oxygen 61 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller delivers the same functionality as the previous version, but includes a copy of the powerful Ignite music creation software The Oxygen 61 features 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable sliders, plus dedicated transport and track select buttons DirectLink mode automatically maps these controls to common DAW functions including transport, mixer, track pan, and plug-in parameters Built-in factory presets offer support for popular virtual

10. Rocktron MIDI Mate Controller Pedal

Rocktron MIDI Mate Controller Pedal
0%

Our Score

When you need to control your gear, choose one of the guitar world?s most commonly used MIDI Foot Controllers, The Rocktron MIDI Mate. The MIDI Mate has been designed with one concept in mind: allow the performing musician complete and easy control over their MIDI equipment. The MIDI Mate is an intelligent controller allowing you to send up to six preset changes on six different channels and five control changes while controlling one realtime parameter via a volume pedal ALL AT ONCE. Unlike other "dumb" foot controllers that send one MIDI command on one channel, the MIDI Mate lets you take full advantage of your MIDI gear in programming and most importantly, on stage. A large seven character LED screen displays song titles while preset LEDs show which preset is recalled. This sturdy, compact unit houses EEPROMs for memory storage so presets will never be lost (like they can in simple battery-storage controllers). The MIDI Mate also features a 7-pin MIDI connector, allowing phantom power to be used with a 7-pin MIDI cable, (such as Rocktron?s M7 cable, the RMM900), avoiding extra adaptor cables on stage. The MIDI Mate is the preferred choice for countless professionals. After many years on the road, the MIDI Mate has been proven the most reliable, problem-free foot controller on the market. Rocktron's MIDI Mate has three modes of operation. Mode One is the BANK Mode and allows the user to step through 128 presets in groups of ten. Mode Two is the INSTANT Mode which allows the user to select preset 01 through 99 with only two foot taps. This makes it easy to jump from a lower bank to a high bank with a minimum of scrolling. For example, you can jump from preset 20 to preset 86 instantly without scrolling from bank 2 to 8. - Mode Three is the CONTROLLER Mode which allows the user to program buttons 5 to 9 (top row) to access on/off controller assignments (not presets) while buttons 0 to 4 (bottom row) access presets. This allows presets to be recalled and modified (turn off/on chorus or delay, for example) without the need to switch modes. There are other MIDI controllers on the market, but only one brand supplies the software to do the job correctly ? Rocktron. Don?t be fooled by cheap brands that look sharp, but lack brains!

3 modes offer simple to complex control Simultaneously transmit 6 program changes on 6 separate MIDI channels, 5 control changes on 5 channels, and a continuous control change on a separate channel Large 7-character LED screen, preset LEDs, phantom power, user-friendly editing, and expression pedal-ready


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