Best 61-Key MIDI Keyboard for Music Production in 2024

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A MIDI keyboard is an esscreate digital musicential tool for any musician or producer looking to create digital music.

It allows you to control virtual instruments, record MIDI data, and play live performances.

However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs.

That’s why we spent hours researching and testing to identify the best 61 key MIDI keyboard.

A 61 key MIDI keyboard is an excellent choice for those who want a balance between portability and functionality.

It’s compact enough to fit in a home studio or backpack, but still has enough keys to play complex chords and melodies.

When choosing a 61 key MIDI keyboard, there are several factors to consider, such as the key action, number of knobs and pads, and connectivity options.

The key action is crucial for any MIDI keyboard, as it determines how the keys feel and respond.

Some keyboards have a weighted or semi-weighted action, which mimics the feel of a traditional piano.

Others have a synth-action, which is lighter and more responsive. The number of knobs and pads is also essential, as it allows you to control various parameters in your software.

Finally, connectivity options such as USB, MIDI, and Bluetooth can affect how you integrate your keyboard with your setup.

After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the best 61 key MIDI keyboard for musicians and producers.

Our top pick offers a semi-weighted key action, eight assignable knobs, and nine assignable pads.

It also has USB and MIDI connectivity, making it easy to integrate with your setup.

In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into our top pick and other notable options on the market.

 

Top 10 Best 61-Key MIDI Keyboards

 

We have researched and tested various 61 key MIDI keyboards to bring you the best options on the market.

These keyboards are versatile and perfect for musicians, producers, and anyone who wants to create music on their computer.

In this roundup, we will showcase the top 61 key MIDI keyboards that offer exceptional features, performance, and value.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, we’re confident that you’ll find the perfect keyboard for your needs.

 

1. Nektar Impact GX61 MIDI Controller

If you’re looking for a versatile and feature-packed MIDI controller, the Nektar Impact GX61 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The 61 synth-action keys are expressive and responsive, making it easy to play with nuance and emotion.
• The Nektar DAW Integration is a great feature that makes it easy to control your DAW from the keyboard. This makes it perfect for recording and producing music.
• The 14 MIDI assignable buttons give you plenty of control over your software instruments and effects.

Cons

• The included Bitwig 8-Track DAW may not be the best option for everyone, especially if you’re already using a different DAW.
• The keyboard can feel a bit flimsy, especially compared to more expensive models.
• The manual could be more detailed and informative.

We were impressed by the Nektar Impact GX61 MIDI Controller’s versatility and functionality.

The keys feel great to play, and the integration with popular DAWs makes it a great choice for recording and producing music.

However, the included Bitwig 8-Track DAW may not be the best option for everyone, and the keyboard can feel a bit flimsy.

 

2. Novation Launchkey 61 [MK3]

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile MIDI keyboard, the Novation Launchkey 61 [MK3] is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The Ableton Live integration is seamless and intuitive, making it easy to control all aspects of your music-making experience.
• The Capture MIDI feature is a game-changer, ensuring that you never lose a creative idea again.
• The velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 velocity-sensitive pads allow for expressive and dynamic performances.

Cons

• The keys may feel a bit toy-like to some users.
• The pads cannot be used to trigger Logic sounds.
• The price point may be a bit high for some users.

We’ve had the chance to use the Novation Launchkey 61 [MK3] in various settings, and we’ve been impressed with its performance across the board.

Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a beginner, this keyboard is designed to be accessible and intuitive.

One of the standout features of the Launchkey 61 [MK3] is its seamless integration with Ableton Live.

We found that we were able to control all aspects of our music-making experience with ease, including device macro control, track select, record, capture MIDI, clip and scene launch, stop mute solo, volume, pans, and sends.

The result is a truly immersive and intuitive music-making experience that allows you to focus on your creativity.

Another feature that we loved is the Capture MIDI function.

With one touch, you can access Ableton Live’s Capture MIDI, ensuring that you never lose a creative idea again. This feature alone is worth the price of admission for us.

Finally, the velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 velocity-sensitive pads are a joy to use.

We found that we were able to create expressive and dynamic performances with ease, capturing our playing in Ableton Live precisely as we intended.

Of course, there are a few potential downsides to the Launchkey 61 [MK3]. Some users may find that the keys feel a bit toy-like, which can take some getting used to.

Additionally, the pads cannot be used to trigger Logic sounds, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.

Finally, the price point may be a bit high for some users, although we feel that the features and performance of this keyboard more than justify the cost.

 

3. FVEREY 61 Key Folding Piano Keyboard

If you’re looking for a portable and foldable MIDI keyboard that delivers high-quality sound, then the FVEREY 61 Key Folding Piano Keyboard is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The 61 semi-weighted keys give beginners a good feel for real pianos.
• The keyboard can be folded 180°, saving space and making it easy to carry.
• The keyboard has 128 tones, 128 rhythms, and 15 demos, making it highly versatile.

Cons

• The speakers’ sound quality is not very good, but it’s good enough with headphones.
• The other sounds besides the piano are poor.
• The sustain pedal may have issues, but the manufacturer has addressed this problem.

We were impressed with the exquisite craftsmanship and tasteful texture of the keys.

The keys have a specific rebound speed, and you can enjoy the sound of notes by running your fingertips over them.

Moreover, the keys are not easy to turn yellow even with extended use, and they have greater stability.

The FVEREY 61 Key Folding Piano Keyboard is highly portable and versatile.

It comes equipped with double HIFI stereo speakers, delivering 100% piano original sound, heavy bass, and warm tone, making your music performance the best it can be.

With the keyboard’s LCD display and buttons, it’s easy to use, with chords function, sustain pedal input, metronome, tempo, Transpose, headphone output, and connection Stereo output to recorder, mixer, or amplifier.

You can connect it with piano games apps such as Garage Band, Perfect Piano, and Pop Piano or online music lessons, making piano learning more fun.

 

4. Casio Casiotone, 61-Key Portable Keyboard with USB, White (CT-S200WE) White Keyboard Only Keyboard

If you’re looking for a versatile, portable, and affordable 61-key MIDI keyboard, the Casio Casiotone CT-S200WE is an excellent choice.

Pros

• USB MIDI connectivity for easy integration with your computer or mobile device
• Built-in carry handle for easy transportation
• Chord and a Play app integration and Dance Music Mode for added fun and creativity

Cons

• Limited number of keys may not be sufficient for more advanced players
• Keys may feel a bit lightweight and less responsive compared to more expensive models
• No sustain pedal input

The Casio Casiotone CT-S200WE is perfect for beginners and intermediate players who are looking for an affordable and portable keyboard that offers a wide range of sounds and features.

With 400 tones, 77 rhythms, and 60 built-in songs, you’ll have plenty of options to experiment with and explore.

The LCD display is easy to read and navigate, and the built-in speakers offer decent sound quality for home practice and small performances.

One of the standout features of the CT-S200WE is its USB MIDI connectivity, which allows you to connect it to your computer or mobile device and use it with your favorite music software or apps.

The built-in carry handle makes it easy to take the keyboard with you wherever you go, and the Chord and a Play app integration and Dance Music Mode add a fun and creative dimension to your playing.

While the CT-S200WE is not without its limitations, such as the lack of a sustain pedal input and the lightweight feel of the keys, it offers excellent value for its price point and is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile 61-key MIDI keyboard.

 

5. M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61

If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful MIDI keyboard controller, the M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and assignable zones make playing virtual instruments and synthesizers a breeze.
• The 16 RGB backlit drum pads with Note Repeat are perfect for beat production and clip launching.
• With 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders, you have tactile control over virtual instruments, effect plugins, and DAW controls.

Cons

• The user interface and customization can be difficult for those who are not tech-savvy.
• The presets don’t include built-in support for some popular DAWs like Cakewalk.
• The keyboard is not portable due to its weight.

We were impressed with the M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61’s premium response and hands-on control.

The keys have a great feel and response, and the drum pads are responsive and dynamic.

The built-in arpeggiator and Smart Chord and Smart Scale modes are useful features that streamline the creative process.

The easy-to-read OLED screen makes configuring the Oxygen Pro 61 with any mainstream DAW a breeze.

The auto-mapping feature takes care of the rest, so you don’t have to spend time setting up controls and plugin parameters manually.

The Oxygen Pro 61 comes with a complete software production package that includes MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech, and Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs.

This means you have everything you need to record, sequence, arrange, and mixdown your tracks.

Overall, we highly recommend the M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile MIDI keyboard controller.

It’s an excellent value for the features offered, and the premium build quality and responsive playing experience make it a joy to use.

 

6. Donner DEK-610 Piano Keyboard

If you’re a beginner or a professional looking for a portable 61 key midi keyboard, then the Donner DEK-610 Piano Keyboard is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The two 4-inch 20W high-quality speakers in DEK-610 electronic keyboard achieve three-dimensional surround sound, heavy bass, and warm tone, making your music performance better.
• Donner piano keyboard has 3 excellent teaching modes to help beginner get familiar with traditional piano and meet the need of different learning, which is perfect for beginners.
• DEK-610 music keyboard is equipped with a huge music library, with 500 tones, 300 rhythms, 40 demo songs, and you can create your own music or do band performances. A great choice for professional players.

Cons

• The microphone that comes with the piano is a very cheap toy-like mic.
• One of the keys doesn’t work.
• The accessories are on one or both sides of the white foam, in the embedded position, which can be difficult to find.

We’ve had the pleasure of using the Donner DEK-610 Piano Keyboard for a few weeks now, and we’re quite impressed with its sound quality and portability.

The two 4-inch 20W high-quality speakers in DEK-610 electronic keyboard achieve three-dimensional surround sound, heavy bass, and warm tone, making your music performance better.

The keyboard has 3 excellent teaching modes to help beginner get familiar with traditional piano and meet the need of different learning, which is perfect for beginners.

The music library of DEK-610 music keyboard is equipped with 500 tones, 300 rhythms, 40 demo songs, and you can create your own music or do band performances.

A great choice for professional players.

However, the microphone that comes with the piano is a very cheap toy-like mic, and one of the keys doesn’t work.

Also, the accessories are on one or both sides of the white foam, in the embedded position, which can be difficult to find.

Despite these minor issues, the Donner DEK-610 Piano Keyboard is a great value for its price and is definitely worth considering for anyone looking for a portable 61 key midi keyboard.

 

7. Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included White

If you’re looking for a versatile and intuitive MIDI keyboard, the Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• New creative features: Scale Mode, Chord Mode, and Arpeggiator make composition, songwriting, and beat-making more intuitive than ever.
• Custom DAW integration: KeyLab Essential 3 features custom scripts for deeper control over DAWs, including Ableton Live Logic Pro X, FL Studio, and more.
• More versatile presets: The 2000 presets included with Analog Lab V are no longer limited to vintage sounds; users can enjoy unique hybrids, modern synths, orchestral sounds, and more.

Cons

• Might be a bit much for beginners.
• Some users have reported issues with the USB cable.
• Outdated software and lack of customer support can be frustrating for some users.

Our experience with the Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 has been mostly positive. The new creative features, custom DAW integration, and versatile presets make it a great option for musicians and producers looking for a MIDI keyboard that can handle a wide range of genres and styles.

One thing to keep in mind is that the KeyLab Essential mk3 might be a bit overwhelming for beginners.

With so many controls and features, it can take some time to get used to.

However, once you’ve spent some time with it, you’ll appreciate the level of control it gives you over your music.

Another potential downside is the USB cable. Some users have reported issues with the cable that comes with the keyboard, so you may need to purchase a replacement.

Finally, while the included software is impressive, some users have reported issues with outdated software and lack of customer support.

If you’re looking for a MIDI keyboard with top-notch software and support, you may want to look elsewhere.

 

8. Soulmate Foldable Piano 61 Key Keyboard Piano Semi Weighted Keys Portable Electronic Piano, Bluetooth & MIDI, Bag Foldable Keyboard Piano for Beginner, Black 61 Keys Black

If you are looking for a portable keyboard with a folding design, the Soulmate Foldable Piano 61 Key Keyboard Piano is worth considering.

It is a compact and lightweight keyboard that can be easily carried around in a travel tote bag.

This keyboard is suitable for beginners and music lovers who are looking for a portable option.

Pros

• The folding design and portable travel tote bag make it easy to carry around and store without taking up too much space.
• The 61 standard semi-weighted keys provide a piano-like finger touch and key depth, allowing for a full, delicate, and three-dimensional sound.
• The keyboard comes with Bluetooth MIDI function, which allows you to connect your devices like phone, PC or tablet with some Piano teaching applications such as Garage Band, Perfect Piano, Pop Piano or other online music lessons.

Cons

• The sound quality may not be as good as a more expensive keyboard, but it can be corrected with external speakers.
• The keyboard hums a little bit, which may be annoying to some users.
• The keys may feel a little toy-ish until you get used to them.

The Soulmate Foldable Piano 61 Key Keyboard Piano is a great option for those who want a portable keyboard that is easy to carry around.

The folding design and portable travel tote bag make it easy to store and transport.

The semi-weighted keys provide a piano-like feel, and the Bluetooth MIDI function allows you to connect to various devices for a better training experience.

The keyboard is suitable for beginners, but it may not be suitable for more advanced users who require a higher quality sound.

The keyboard hums a little bit, which may be annoying to some users, and the keys may feel a little toy-ish until you get used to them.

 

9. Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII

If you’re looking for a high-quality MIDI keyboard controller, the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII is an excellent choice.

With its sturdy aluminum chassis, wood panels, and luxury keybed, it’s built to last and inspire confidence.

Pros

• The aftertouch-enabled keybed is incredibly expressive and inspiring, making it a great choice for synth players.
• The 9 faders can control the virtual drawbars of an organ, and at the flick of a switch, control the levels in your DAW.
• The KeyLab MkII comes with over 6000 synth and keyboard presets from Arturia’s flagship V Collection, as well as physically modeled pianos and Ableton Live Lite.

Cons

• The price point of the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII may be a bit high for some users.
• The keyboard is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to transport.
• The product is only available in black, which may not be to everyone’s taste.

Overall, we highly recommend the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII to anyone looking for a high-quality MIDI keyboard controller.

With its expressive keybed, versatile faders, and inspiring software, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to take their music-making to the next level.

The KeyLab MkII is incredibly easy to use, with a sensitive enough keybed to capture the subtleties and nuances of delicate playing, while still being robust enough to feel the energy of high-impact performances.

The custom chords can be stored within the performance pads for intuitive live triggering, so you can play lead on the keys, and create lush soundscape on the pads.

The KeyLab MkII offers all the creative software you need, with access to over 6000 synth and keyboard presets from their flagship V Collection (Analog Lab 3), physically modeled pianos (Arturia Piano V), and Ableton Live Lite.

Additionally, the KeyLab MkII boasts 5 expression pedal inputs to satisfy even the most advanced performance setups.

In terms of connectivity, the KeyLab MkII is leading the way in modular control, with 4 CV outputs and a CV input.

Users can send pitch, gate, and 2 modulation sources to Eurorack gear or vintage outboard synths.

In addition to the full-sized MIDI in and out connectors, the KeyLab MkII is a full-featured controller that adapts to your needs, your style, and your workflow, so you can make music just the way you like it.

 

10. Alesis V61 MKII USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

If you’re looking for a versatile USB-powered MIDI controller that will take your musical ideas from concept to final performance, the Alesis V61 MKII is an excellent choice.

With its full-size, velocity-sensitive, synth-action keys, backlit beat pads, and assignable knobs, this keyboard controller is ideal for pro studio producers, music students, and pianists on the go.

Pros

• The V61 MKII is easy to set up and use. Simply plug it into your PC, Mac, or iOS device, and you’re ready to start creating music.
• The keyboard’s full-size keys offer a piano-like feel, making it easy to play and record melodies and chord progressions.
• The assignable knobs and backlit beat pads make it easy to create sample sounds and backing tracks, while the pitch bend and modulation wheels add expression and nuance to your playing.

Cons

• The V61 MKII is not as portable as some other MIDI controllers on the market. While it’s compact enough to fit on most desktops, it may be too bulky to take on the road.
• The keyboard’s velocity sensitivity may not be as responsive as some users would like. This can make it difficult to achieve the desired level of expression in your playing.
• The V61 MKII does not come with a sustain pedal, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.

Overall, the Alesis V61 MKII is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use MIDI keyboard controller.

With its full-size keys, assignable knobs, and backlit beat pads, it offers a range of creative options for musicians of all skill levels.

 

Buying Guide

 

When searching for the best 61 key MIDI keyboard, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure that you get the right product for your needs.

Here are some of the most important features to consider when making your purchase:

Keyboard Action

The keyboard action refers to the way the keys feel when you press them. This is an important factor to consider, as it can greatly impact the way you play and the types of sounds you can produce. There are several types of keyboard actions to choose from, including:

• Weighted: These keys feel similar to those on an acoustic piano, with a heavier touch and more resistance.
• Semi-weighted: These keys are lighter than weighted keys, but still offer some resistance.
• Synth-action: These keys have a light touch and little resistance, making them ideal for playing fast and complex sequences.

 

Connectivity

 

It’s important to consider the connectivity options when choosing a MIDI keyboard. Look for a keyboard with a USB port, as this will allow you to connect it to your computer or other devices.

Some keyboards also offer additional connectivity options, such as MIDI in/out ports, which can be useful if you want to connect other MIDI devices to your keyboard.

 

Controls

 

Many MIDI keyboards come with a range of controls, such as knobs, faders, and buttons, which can be used to manipulate your sounds and effects.

Consider what type of controls you need, and look for a keyboard that offers them.

Some keyboards also come with built-in arpeggiators, sequencers, and other features that can be useful for creating complex sounds and patterns.

 

Software

 

Finally, consider the software that comes with the keyboard.

Many MIDI keyboards come with software that allows you to create and edit sounds, as well as record and edit MIDI data.

Look for a keyboard that comes with software that is compatible with your computer and your workflow.

 

Conclusion

 

Choosing the right 61 key MIDI keyboard ultimately comes down to your individual needs and budget.

Consider the keyboard action, connectivity, controls, portability, and included software as you shop around.

Our top overall pick, the Nektar Impact GX61 offers great bang for your buck with its responsive keys, DAW integration, and assignable controls.

However the Novation Launchkey 61 [MK3] is a close second if seamless Ableton integration is most important for your workflow.

Whichever you choose, investing in a quality MIDI controller will take your music production to the next level.