

In addition to portable MIDI keyboards we have articles on the best MIDI sequencers, synthesizers, and audio interfaces.
Best portable midi keyboard software#
The so-called Analog Lab software accurately emulates hundreds of classic keyboard instruments such as analog synthesizers and organs, and the MiniLab is pre-mapped to all of them in order to create a tactile and intuitive experience while playing.


The MiniLab's keys are less remarkable, but many still choose this model because of its overall construction quality and the robust software it comes bundled with. In fact, the V25 is one of a minority of controllers that provide full-sized piano keys but can still be considered relatively portable, so it's a great choice for those who find that scaled-down keys are too cramped and hamper their creativity. The Alesis V25 and Arturia MiniLab may lack a couple of the internal functions of the aforementioned models, but they are still worth considering because of their solid builds and playable, nice-feeling keyboards. Many find these rectangular pads to be more intuitive than a keyboard when playing percussive sounds and making beats, and encoders can be mapped to various parameters in a DAW in order to provide more tactile control of sound parameters or effects. In addition to these generative abilities the Launchkey Mini and MPK Mini also provide additional controls beyond their keys, such as drum pads and assignable encoders. Features like a built in arpeggiator and note repeat functionality allow for easy creation of complex melodies or beats, and the Keystep even includes a relatively complex polyphonic sequencer.
Best portable midi keyboard professional#
If you don't mind sacrificing a little bit of portability in exchange for a better build quality and more advanced features, selections like the Arturia Keystep, Novation Launchkey Mini, and Akai Professional MPK Mini MkII might be your best options. All of these have lightweight, plastic-feeling builds, very small keys with poorer action than more robust models, and lack advanced controls like pitch bend wheels or programmable encoders. However, all of these models make considerable concessions to achieve their size. All these options can be powered via a USB connection to a laptop or even some tablets, and this combined with their compact size means that they could even be reasonably used at a cafe or on public transit. These options provide you with both a piano-like layout for entering melodies and a slim form factor that could easily fit in many backpacks or messenger bags. If your utmost concern is portability and you don't need more than basic keyboard, check out models like the Akai Professional LPK2, M Audio Mini 32, and Korg nanoKEY2.
