Best 25-Key MIDI Controllers in 2024

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A 25-key MIDI controller is an essential tool for any musician, producer, or DJ who wants to create music on the go.

With its compact size and versatility, it allows you to create music anywhere, whether you’re on stage, in the studio, or on the road.

A 25-key MIDI controller is also an excellent option for beginners who are just starting to learn how to create music.

When it comes to purchasing a 25-key MIDI controller, there are a few things to consider. One of the most important factors is the number and quality of the keys.

While a 25-key controller may not have as many keys as a larger controller, it’s important to ensure that the keys are responsive and feel good to play.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider the number of knobs, faders, and other controls on the controller, as well as its compatibility with your DAW (digital audio workstation) software.

After researching and testing various 25-key MIDI controllers, we’ve identified the top options that offer the best combination of quality, features, and affordability.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, these controllers will help you create music with ease and precision.

Best 25-Key MIDI Controllers

When it comes to producing music, having the right tools is crucial.

A 25 key MIDI controller is a great option for those who want a compact and portable device that can help them create music on the go.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the best 25 key MIDI controllers that are available on Amazon.

Our team has researched and tested each product to ensure that we are providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Whether you are a beginner or a professional, we are confident that our list will help you find the perfect MIDI controller for your needs.

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3

We highly recommend the AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 for anyone looking for a portable and powerful MIDI controller.

It offers a complete package with all the tools you need to make hit songs.

Pros

• The compact size makes it an ideal travel companion
• Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control
• Complete Music Production Starter Kit including MPC Beats, 6 Virtual Instruments, and 2GB of sound content

Cons

• Some users reported issues with the software suite that comes with the product
• The 25 mini keys may not be suitable for advanced pianists
• The knobs may feel a bit cheap and flimsy

The AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 is an excellent choice for beginners and professionals alike.

The 25 mini keys are velocity-sensitive and offer a great feel for playing melodies and chords.

The built-in arpeggiator, MPC Note Repeat & Full Level, and 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-Style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat and Full Level make programming drums, triggering samples, and controlling virtual synthesizer/DAW controls a breeze.

The 8 360-degree knobs assign to all your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls, and more, giving you complete command of your virtual instruments and FX.

The compact size makes it an ideal travel companion, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

The Complete Music Production Starter Kit includes MPC Beats, AIR Hybrid, Mini Grand, Velvet, and assorted MPC Expansion packs, providing you with everything you need for pro production.

However, some users reported issues with the software suite that comes with the product.

Overall, the AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a portable and powerful MIDI controller.

Its compact size, innovative 4-way thumbstick, and complete music production starter kit make it an ideal choice for beginners and professionals alike.

Donner Mini MIDI Keyboard, N-25 25 Key MIDI Controller

If you’re looking for a compact and affordable MIDI controller, the Donner N-25 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The compact design with 25 mini velocity-sensitive keys makes it easy to carry around and play anywhere.
• The simple layout and user-friendly functions are perfect for novice users, but it also comes with advanced features such as an arpeggiator and pitch-bend wheel for more experienced musicians.
• It’s compatible with various DAWs and mobile devices, making it a versatile tool for music production.

Cons

• The keys may feel a bit small for some users, especially if you’re used to playing on a full-sized keyboard.
• The build quality is not as sturdy as some other MIDI controllers on the market.
• The included keyboard-teaching courses may not be as comprehensive as some users would like.

Overall, the Donner N-25 is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable and affordable MIDI controller.

It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who needs a compact keyboard for on-the-go music production.

Arturia MicroLab 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Black

If you’re looking for a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller with great features, the Arturia MicroLab 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Black is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The industry-acclaimed 25 velocity-sensitive slim-keys keybed provides a comfortable and responsive playing experience.
• The integrated cable-tidy recess helps keep your setup neat and organized.
• The flashy rubberized case protects the controller when you’re on the go.

Cons

• The capacitive pitch and modulation touch strip may take some time to get used to.
• The USB cable included in the package is a bit short.
• The keys may feel a bit small for some users.

We’ve been using the Arturia MicroLab 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Black for a while now, and we’re impressed with its features and performance.

The slim-keys keybed is comfortable to play, and the velocity sensitivity is spot on.

The integrated cable-tidy recess is a great addition, as it helps keep our setup organized and clutter-free.

The rubberized case not only looks great but also protects the controller from scratches and bumps when we’re on the go.

The capacitive pitch and modulation touch strip is a unique feature that takes some time to get used to.

However, once we got the hang of it, we found it to be a great addition to our workflow.

The USB cable included in the package is a bit short, which may be an issue for some users.

However, we were able to find a longer cable easily.

The keys may feel a bit small for users with larger hands. However, we found them to be comfortable to play, and they didn’t feel cramped.

Overall, we highly recommend the Arturia MicroLab 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Black to anyone looking for a compact and portable MIDI keyboard controller with great features.

Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller

If you’re looking for a versatile and user-friendly MIDI keyboard controller, the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The seamless integration with Ableton Live allows for a streamlined music-making experience.
• The velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 velocity-sensitive pads enable expressive and dynamic performances.
• The arpeggiator and chord modes add a whole range of diversity to your ideas and melodies.

Cons

• The keys may feel a bit like toy keyboard keys to some users.
• The pads cannot be used to trigger Logic sounds.
• The key action is not as good as the Launchkey Mini version.

We recently had the chance to try out the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller, and we were impressed by its overall performance.

The seamless integration with Ableton Live is definitely one of the standout features of this controller.

With deep and intuitive Ableton Live control, including device macro control, track select, record, capture MIDI, clip and scene launch, stop/mute/solo, volume, pans, and sends, you’ll have all the tools you need at your disposal.

The velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 velocity-sensitive pads are also worth mentioning.

They allow for expressive and dynamic performances, and you can capture your playing in Ableton Live precisely as you intended.

The arpeggiator and chord modes are also great additions to this controller. You can lay down chords for your track quickly with three chord modes — fixed, scale, and user.

You can also get melodies moving with the creative arpeggiator, which allows you to change rhythm, beat, pattern, octave, gate, and more.

While the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller has a lot of great features, there are a few downsides to consider.

Some users may find that the keys feel a bit like toy keyboard keys, and the key action is not as good as the Launchkey Mini version.

Additionally, the pads cannot be used to trigger Logic sounds.

Overall, we think the Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and user-friendly MIDI keyboard controller.

AKAI Professional LPK25 – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

If you’re a musician, producer, or DJ looking for a portable and easy-to-use MIDI keyboard controller, the AKAI Professional LPK25 is an excellent option.

With its compact size, responsive keys, and feature-packed design, this controller is perfect for composing, jamming, and playing melodies on the go.

Pros

• The LPK25 is incredibly portable and lightweight, making it easy to take with you anywhere you go.
• The keys are responsive and offer an excellent playing experience, with careful attention to velocity response.
• The built-in arpeggiator and clock give you creative control over your sound sources, and the USB cable makes it easy to connect to your computer.

Cons

• The LPK25 only has 25 keys, so it may not be suitable for more complex compositions.
• Some users have reported issues with the keys making noise during use.
• The LPK25 may not be as durable as some other MIDI keyboard controllers on the market.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the AKAI Professional LPK25 to anyone looking for a portable and easy-to-use MIDI keyboard controller.

With its responsive keys, feature-packed design, and excellent portability, this controller is perfect for musicians, producers, and DJs on the go.

The LPK25 is incredibly easy to set up and use, with USB power and plug-and-play compatibility for Mac or PC.

The built-in arpeggiator and clock are particularly useful for creative control of your sound sources, and the dedicated octave up and down buttons make it easy to transpose the range of your software instruments.

And with 8 programmable preset slots, you can instantly recall your mappings for DAWs, virtual instruments, and more.

Whether you’re looking to create music on the go or just want a compact and easy-to-use MIDI keyboard controller, the AKAI Professional LPK25 is an excellent choice.

So why wait? Click the link above to learn more and start making music today!

M-WAVE Bluetooth Wireless 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

If you’re looking for a portable and compact MIDI keyboard controller, the M-WAVE Bluetooth Wireless 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is a great option for you.

Pros

• The wireless feature is a great addition to this keyboard. You can connect it wirelessly to your device with Bluetooth, and the built-in 2,000 mAh battery can work for about 16 hours. This makes it very convenient to use and carry around.
• The 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys are perfect for studio production, virtual synthesizer control, and beat production. They are also very responsive which makes playing easier and more enjoyable.
• The K5 is compatible with all digital audio workstation software, such as Ableton live, Fl Studio, Cubase, Logic Pro X, Bitwig, Reason, Studio One, GarageBand(iOS), etc. It also integrates the smart chord and smart sound function, which allows you to choose quickly through the keys. This is very suitable for setting this function during performance and practice.

Cons

• The keys are a bit smaller than usual, which might take some getting used to if you’re used to playing on a regular-sized keyboard.
• Some users might prefer a keyboard with more keys, but this keyboard is perfect if you’re looking for something more portable and compact.
• The manual could be more detailed and user-friendly.

Overall, the M-WAVE Bluetooth Wireless 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is a great option for anyone looking for a portable and compact MIDI keyboard controller.

It’s perfect for studio production, virtual synthesizer control, and beat production.

The wireless feature, responsive keys, and compatibility with digital audio workstation software make it a great investment for any music producer.

AKAI APC Key 25 MK2

If you’re looking for a versatile and compact MIDI controller to enhance your music production, the AKAI APC Key 25 MK2 is a great option.

Pros

• The 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys are responsive and perfect for live performances and studio compositions.
• The 40 RGB pads are great for launching clips in Ableton Live and provide visual color feedback.
• The 8 assignable rotary knobs give you control over volume, pan, insert sends for effects, and automation for all track types.

Cons

• The DAW integration is limited to Ableton Live, so if you use other software, this may not be the best option for you.
• The build quality is mostly plastic, which may not be as durable as other MIDI controllers.
• The case is not included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you plan on taking it on the go.

In our experience, the AKAI APC Key 25 MK2 is a reliable and intuitive MIDI controller that seamlessly integrates with Ableton Live.

The 25 mini-keys are responsive and perfect for playing chords, basslines, and synth leads.

The 40 RGB pads are a standout feature that allows for instant creativity with loops, vocals, and melodic samples.

The 8 assignable rotary knobs are perfect for dialing in effects and parameters, and the 4 directional arrows make it easy to navigate large sessions with ease.

Overall, if you’re an Ableton Live user looking for a portable and versatile MIDI controller, the AKAI APC Key 25 MK2 is definitely worth considering.

It’s easy to use, responsive, and provides a seamless creative experience.

M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV)

If you’re looking for a feature-packed 25-key MIDI controller keyboard and MIDI pad controller, the M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) is a great option.

We highly recommend it for beginners and professionals alike.

Pros

• The 25 full-sized velocity-sensitive piano keys deliver a natural response that gets the best from virtual sampler & synthesizer plugins.
• The 2 banks of 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat are perfect for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering, and more.
• The 8 assignable knobs and 1 assignable fader provide tactile MIDI control of virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, DAW controls, and more.

Cons

• The key-bed is synth action, which is softer compared to the more expensive weighted keys.
• The per-key sensitivity is not adjustable, which can be a problem for some users.
• The drum pads are not as responsive as some other MIDI controllers in the same price range.

The Oxygen 25 (MKV) controller is packed with powerful features, essential for creating and producing music in a digital environment.

With everything you need to breathe new life into your production, and create cutting-edge music on stage or in the studio, this MIDI controller is a must-have.

The Oxygen 25 (MKV) is effortless to configure with your Digital Audio Workstation.

You can select your DAW on the keyboard controller, configure your DAW’s preferences to the MIDI keyboard, and you’re set!

Controls such as Transport, Faders, Pan, Record Arm, Solo, Mute, Select, and many more are automatically mapped to all mainstream DAWs for a fluid workflow.

The M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) comes with a premium software suite, including two Digital Audio Workstations (MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite), two Virtual Instruments (Hybrid 3 and Mini Grand), 5 MPC Expansion Packs, 60 free interactive MIDI keyboard lessons from Melodics, and a 3-month subscription to Skoove.

Everything you need for immediate creative potential right-out-the-box is here!

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a versatile, feature-packed MIDI controller that’s easy to use and comes with a premium software package, the M-Audio Oxygen 25 (MKV) is an excellent choice.

It’s perfect for beginners and professionals alike who want to create and produce music in a digital environment.

Nektar SE25 | USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with Nektar DAW Integration Black

If you’re looking for a compact, expressive, and rugged MIDI keyboard, the Nektar SE25 is an excellent choice.

We recommend this product for mobile production setups, especially for those who want to create music on the move.

It’s about as wide as a laptop, and despite its size, it offers comprehensive MIDI functionality and Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs.

Pros

• The Nektar SE25 is incredibly portable, making it an excellent choice for those who want to make music on the go.
• The mini keys are surprisingly playable, and the six control buttons are incredibly useful.
• The Nektar SE25 is compatible with all MIDI music software applications, making it an excellent choice for those who use multiple DAWs.

Cons

• The keys are small, which can be challenging for those with larger hands.
• The keys may feel a bit stiff for some users.
• The included Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package may not be suitable for all users.

The Nektar SE25 is an excellent choice for those who need a compact and portable MIDI keyboard.

It’s incredibly easy to use and offers comprehensive MIDI functionality and Nektar DAW integration.

The mini keys are surprisingly playable, and the six control buttons are incredibly useful.

However, the keys may feel a bit stiff for some users, and the included Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package may not be suitable for all users.

Overall, we believe that the Nektar SE25 is an excellent choice for those who want to create music on the move.

Korg, 25-Key Midi Controller (NANOKEY2BK),Black Black Slim-Line USB Keyboard

If you’re looking for a slim-line USB keyboard that is ideal for use with laptop and netbook computers, then the Korg 25-Key Midi Controller is a great choice.

The 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard is designed with ample key width and plenty of space between the keys, reducing the chances of a wrong note.

The touch and velocity response have been carefully tuned, providing improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys.

Pros

• Low-profile design makes it easy to transport
• Advanced-design keyed offers improved accuracy
• Sustain button – ideal for entering piano parts!

Cons

• Limited number of keys
• Keys may feel too small for some users
• Not ideal for professional use

We were impressed with the Korg, 25-Key Midi Controller (NANOKEY2BK),Black Black Slim-Line USB Keyboard.

The keyboard is lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for musicians on the go.

The advanced-design keyed offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys, making it easy to play complex melodies and chords.

The sustain button is also a great feature, making it easy to enter piano parts.

However, the keyboard has a limited number of keys, which may not be suitable for some users.

Also, the keys may feel too small for some users, which could make it difficult to play certain chords and melodies.

Lastly, the Korg, 25-Key Midi Controller (NANOKEY2BK),Black Black Slim-Line USB Keyboard is not ideal for professional use, as it lacks some of the features and functionality that professional musicians require.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and portable MIDI keyboard that is easy to use and offers great functionality, then the Korg, 25-Key Midi Controller (NANOKEY2BK),Black Black Slim-Line USB Keyboard is a great choice.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best 25 key MIDI controller, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Key Action

The key action is one of the most important features to consider when choosing a MIDI controller.

There are three main types of key action: weighted, semi-weighted, and synth-action.

Weighted keys are designed to mimic the feel of a traditional piano, while semi-weighted keys offer a compromise between the piano-like feel of weighted keys and the lighter feel of synth-action keys.

Synth-action keys are the lightest and most responsive, making them ideal for playing fast and intricate melodies.

Number of Keys

The number of keys on a MIDI controller can vary from as few as 25 to as many as 88. The number of keys you need will depend on your specific needs and playing style.

If you’re a beginner or only need to play simple melodies, a 25-key controller might be sufficient.

However, if you’re a more experienced player or need to play more complex pieces, you may want to consider a larger controller with 49 or 61 keys.

Connectivity

Another important factor to consider is connectivity.

Most MIDI controllers connect to your computer or mobile device via USB, but some also offer Bluetooth or wireless connectivity.

Make sure to check the compatibility of your device before purchasing a MIDI controller.

Additional Features

Some MIDI controllers come with additional features such as drum pads, faders, and knobs.

These features can be useful for controlling different aspects of your music production software.

Make sure to consider which features are important to you before making a purchase.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best 25 key MIDI controller that meets your specific needs and playing style.

Conclusion

In summary, a 25-key MIDI controller is an essential tool for musicians, producers, and DJs who want to create music on the go.

Choosing the right one comes down to key factors like key action, number of keys, connectivity, and additional features.

Models like the AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3, Arturia MicroLab, and Novation Launchkey 25 [MK3] offer the best combination of quality, versatility, and affordability.

So take your music production to the next level by investing in one of these fantastic 25-key MIDI controllers today.