Best 61 key midi controllers

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 20, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best 61 key midi controllers you can find out there. We've found about 75 of 61 key midi controllers and selected the 35 top options by MASINGO, Logitech for Creators, Suzuki, Orange Amps. We took the time to do a thorough research and point out some advantages and disadvantages of each of the options we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend endless hours hoping to find the perfect model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Midiplus X6 II MIDI Keyboard Controller
#TOP 1
Midiplus X6 II MIDI Keyboard Controller
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Nektar SE61 - USB MIDI Controller Keyboard
#TOP 2
Nektar SE61 - USB MIDI Controller Keyboard
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Nektar, 49-Key Midi Controller (SE49)
#TOP 3
Nektar, 49-Key Midi Controller (SE49)
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Top 35 Best 61 key midi controllers Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Midiplus X6 II MIDI Keyboard Controller

Midiplus

Features

  • X6 II which have 61 full-scale velocity keys respectively.
  • It's powered by USB, no external supply is needed(1 MIDI OUT, 1 SUSTAIN PEDAL interface a interface and 1 USB interface).
  • Using solid and technology sense metal shell, embedded elegant white sides, black and white tonal collocation, stylish appearance design.
  • Capacitive touch sensors to control PITCH and MODULATION/With function-editing button (MIDI/SELECT) and Octave switching button.
  • 4 editable knob controllers and 6 editable knob controllers.
#TOP 2

Nektar SE61 - USB MIDI Controller Keyboard

Nektar

Features

  • Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
  • Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs
  • Includes Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package
  • Mac, PC and iOS Compatible
  • All the features and expressive control you need to start making music with your computer, and at a price that delivers amazing value for money
#TOP 3

Nektar, 49-Key Midi Controller (SE49)

Nektar

Features

  • Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
  • Includes Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package
  • Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs
  • All the features and expressive control you need to start making music with your computer, and at a price that delivers amazing value for money
  • Mac, PC and iOS Compatible
#TOP 4

M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3

M-Audio

Features

  • Total Control - Volume fader, transport and directional buttons for easy control of your software, plus ergonomically-designed pitch and modulation wheels, Octave up and down buttons and sustain pedal input for expressive performances
  • Ultimate Expression - 61 full-size velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys provide a natural feel that captures every subtle nuance of your performance
  • Premium Software suite included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Velvet, XPand 2, Mini Grand, and Touch Loops
  • Your Studio Centrepiece - Compact design fits any desk, studio or stage setup perfectly and advanced functionality customizes your controls for your recording software
  • Immediate Creativity - Easy plug-and-play connection to your Mac or PC—no drivers or power supply required; compatible with iOS devices via the Apple to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately)
#TOP 5

Novation Launchkey 61 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller

Novation

Features

  • Get melodies moving with arpeggiator – Easy to use but deeply controllable, Launchkey Mini’s creative arpeggiator allows you to change rhythm, beat, pattern, octave, gate and more to add a whole range of diversity to your ideas and melo-dies.
  • Never hit a wrong note – Scale modes transpose keys and pads to notes in the se-lected scale, so that you can focus on being creative and remove music theory frus-tration.
  • Play chords with one finger – Lay down chords for your track quick with three chord modes — fixed, scale, and user. Play a chord with one finger by assigning a fixed shape to the keys and it’ll transpose as you move up and down the keyboard.
  • "Designed for Live — Get hands on with Ableton Live – An unrivalled integration to Ableton Live with your Launchkey gives you a seamless music making experience. Have all the tools at your disposal 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. Never lose an idea with Capture MIDI – One touch access to Ableton Live’s Capture MIDI ensures you will never lose an idea without taking you from the creative expe-rience.
  • Create and play with feeling – Velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 velocity-sensitive pads enable expressive and dynamic performance at your fingertips. Capture your playing in Ableton Live precisely as you intended.
  • DAW Integration – In addition to Apple Logic and Ableton Live, Launchkey also has excellent integrations with Reason, as well as any HUI compatible DAW, such as Cubase, Pro Tools, and more.
#TOP 6

M-Audio Oxygen 61 IV

M-Audio

Features

  • Class compliant, plug-and-play functionality and USB powered specification for simple user-friendly setup
  • Compact, ultra-portable performance keyboard controller with 61 full-size, synth-action velocity-sensitive keys and on-board pitch bend and modulation wheels for expressive performances
  • Innovative DirectLink automatically maps controls to popular DAWs including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase and more
  • Comprehensive production software package for Mac and PC worth over dollar 100 included; Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist and AIR Music Tech Xpand 2
  • Dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full melodic range and transport buttons let you control your DAW without reaching for the mouse
  • 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching; 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders for manipulating virtual instruments, DAW parameters and plugins - on-board LCD screen provides instant parameter feedback
#TOP 7

Nektar Panorama P6 - USB MIDI Controller Keyboard

Nektar

Features

  • Mac and PC compatible
  • Comprehensive MIDI functionailty. Compatible with all MIDI music software applications
  • Deep DAW integration for Cubase, Logic, Studio One, Bitwig Studio, Nuendo, Mainstage, Reason and Reaper.
  • Includes PreSonus Studio One Artist DAW
  • Nektar's most advanced MIDI Controller. 61 semi-weighted full-size velocity sensitive keys + aftertouch. Amazing number of controls available includes 100mm ALPS motorized touch-sensitive high resolution fader.
#TOP 8

AKAI Professional MPK261

Akai Professional

Features

  • Comprehensive Production Software Package for Mac and PC included - Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech & Xpand!2(downloads)
  • The MPC Production Experience - Includes MPC Beats Software complete with the finest features and essential production tools from the Akai Professional MPC Series
  • Beat Making Essentials - 16 RGB-illuminated MPC-style pads each with 4 banks for 64 pads - the perfect solution for triggering samples, loops, one-shots, melodics and more
  • Assignable Control - 24 assignable Q-Link controllers comprising 8 control knobs, faders and switches engineered for hassle-free DAW / virtual instrument mapping
  • Pro Keyboard Performance - 61 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive full-size keys and a premium piano-style keybed for unprecedented response and natural feel
  • Core MPC Tools - MPC mainstay controls included - MPC Note Repeat, arpeggiator, MPC Full Level, Tap Tempo and Time Division
  • Your Studio Centerpiece - Take command of your peripheral MIDI equipment courtesy of an onboard USB-MIDI interface with 5-pin MIDI input & output
#TOP 9

Alesis V61 - 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Alesis

Features

  • Octave Up and Down buttons let you access the full keyboard range and Pitch and modulation wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit pads for beat production and clip launching
  • Premium Software Included - Includes Ableton Live Lite, Xpand!2 virtual instrument software by Air Music Tech and MPC Beats
  • MIDI Keyboard with 61 full-sized, velocity sensitive square-front keys, perfect for playing Virtual Instruments
  • 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons interface with your music software. Seamless, visual feedback via illuminated buttons and knobs
#TOP 10

Nektar, 61-Key MIDI Controller

Nektar

Features

  • 61 Premium midi controller with 61 expressive synth-action keys, on-board pitch bend and modulation wheels for performances
  • 14 MIDI assignable buttons
  • Nektar DAW Integration for most popular DAWs
  • Mac, PC and iOS compatible
  • Includes Bitwig 8-Track DAW. NOTE: Refer the User Guide before use.
#TOP 11

Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 Keyboard MIDI Controller Includes Analog Lab software

ARTURIA

Features

  • A powerful MIDI keyboard controller built around Arturia's Analog Lab and V Collection instruments
  • Other hands-on controls include 10 encoders, 9 sliders, a 6-button transport section, and 4 command switches
  • Perform with 8 pads, Chord Play mode, and a sustain pedal input for added expression
  • Compatible with all major Digital Audio Workstation: Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, FL Studio, Bitwig, Cubase, Ableton Live, Digital Performer, Studio One
  • Play effortlessly on a highly responsive 61-note keybed with separate modulation and pitch wheels
#TOP 12

Arturia KeyLab 61 Essential

ARTURIA

Features

  • Connectivity: MIDI out, USB, Sustain pedal
  • 61 keys with velocity
  • Functions as a universal MIDI controller
  • Includes Analog Lab software with 5000 synth sounds, Includes Ableton Live Lite, Includes UVI Grand Piano model D
  • Controllers: 1 clickable encoder, 9 encoders, 9 30mm faders, 6 transport switches, 4 command switches, 1 modulation wheel, 1 pitch bend wheel, 8 touch and pressure-sensitive pads
#TOP 13

Arturia KeyLab 61 MKII Keyboard Controller (Black)

ARTURIA

Features

  • Analog Lab Included: Analog Lab gives you the best of 21 instruments that made music history, all in one convenient place. Analog synthesizers. Digital synthesizers. Acoustic pianos. Electric pianos. Organs. Strings machines
  • Workflow That Works: Every aspect of KeyLab MkII has been carefully crafted to keep distractions to a minimum, and provide time-saving shortcuts that will keep your mind in the game. KeyLab MkII features three distinct modes that you can instantly switch between for insanely efficient workflow
  • DAW Mode: The DAW mode quickly switches control to elements within your recording software. In this mode, the central jog wheel lets you move the playback cursor; the Next and Prev buttons let you shift focus on tracks by 1 or 8 channels at a time
  • Get in Command: The original Arturia KeyLab made waves by giving musicians and producers in-depth command of their MIDI environment, while KeyLab MkII streamlined its functionality by giving you instant access to the features you use most often
  • Analog Lab Mode: It�s Analog Lab mode gives you ultimate control over this powerful included software, automatically mapping KeyLab MkII�s controls to specific functions and parameters within Analog Lab. The Category buttons let you immediately refine your search for the right sound, while the jog wheel gives you precise control over preset browsing and selection. The Live button can be used to activate Split mode and set the split point
#TOP 14

Arturia KeyLab 88 Essential 88-Key MIDI Controller

ARTURIA

Features

  • 9 Faders
  • 8 Pads
  • 88-note USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
  • 9 Rotary Knobs
  • Analog Lab Software - Mac/PC
#TOP 15

M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 – 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads

M-Audio

Features

  • Every Tool You Need – Effortless auto-mapping for DAW controls & plugin parameters; Smart Chord & Smart Scale modes; Arpeggiator; pitch & modulation wheels; sustain pedal input; 5-pin MIDI Output
  • Total Command of Your Music Production - 8 assignable knobs & buttons and 9 assignable faders for tactile MIDI control of virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAW controls and more
  • MIDI Keyboard Essentials - 61 velocity-sensitive, semi weighted keys with aftertouch and assignable zones for playing virtual sampler instruments and virtual synthesizer plugins
  • Follow the included download card to visit the M-Audio website and obtain all supplied software and firmware updates
  • Beat Maker Mainstays - 16 RGB backlit MIDI assignable velocity sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering and more
  • Complete software production package Included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech and Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs
#TOP 16

Novation Impulse 49 USB Midi Controller Keyboard

Novation

Features

  • Automap 4 control software enables instant hands-on access to your DAW and plug-ins
  • Includes downloads for: Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Bass Station synth, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, and a Loopmasters Sample Pack. Novation now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Novation products.
  • Full DAW/plug-in control surface with 8 knobs, 9 faders and buttons
  • Ultra-responsive semi weighted keyboard with aftertouch
  • Multi-function drum pads enable you to warp arpeggios, roll beats and launch clips in Ableton Live
#TOP 17

Alesis VI61 - 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Alesis

Features

  • 16 velocity-sensitive trigger pads with illuminated RGB feedback for beat production and clip launching. Pitch and modulation wheels deliver expressive, creative control
  • Production software included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech (downloads). USB-powered and plug-and-play support for Mac and PC
  • Manipulate plugins and virtual instruments with hands-on controls. With VI61, you can open and close filters on virtual synthesizers, adjust volume levels in your mix, activate effects, and much more
  • MIDI Keyboard with 61 full-sized, square-front, semi-weighted keys with after touch. USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI Out offer flexible MIDI connectivity
  • 48 assignable buttons and 16 assignable knobs interface with your music software. Seamless visual feedback via LED screen and illuminated buttons and knobs
#TOP 18

Nektar Impact LX61+ Keyboard Controller

Nektar

Features

  • Mac, PC and iOS compatible
  • Includes Bitwig 8-Track DAW
  • USB MIDI controller keyboard with 61 velocity sensitive keys
  • 8 Hyper-Sensitive backlit pads
  • Software instruments automatically mapped to controls
#TOP 19

M-Audio Hammer 88 - USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

M-Audio

Features

  • Free Online Lessons - Includes FREE 3-month subscription to Skoove. The easiest way to learn piano with interactive piano lessons for beginners and advanced players
  • Express Yourself - Conveniently located pitch bend, modulation, volume and octave controls for immersive, expressive performances
  • Pro Software Suite Included – MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Eighty Eight Ensemble, AIR Music Tech’s Velvet, Mini Grand, DB33, and Touch Loops
  • Plug & Play - Driverless class compliant and USB powered specification provides seamless USB-MIDI connection for playing virtual instruments, controlling recording software and more
  • Perfect Feel, Ultimate Response - 88 fully-weighted, hammer-action velocity-sensitive keys deliver natural piano feel, faithfully replicating every subtle nuance of your performance
  • All The Right Connections - Expanded control options for Inputs for Sustain, Expression and Soft pedals included
#TOP 20

Arturia KeyLab MKII 61 Professional MIDI Controller and Software (WHITE)

ARTURIA

Features

  • DAW Mode: The DAW mode quickly switches control to elements within your recording software. In this mode, the central jog wheel lets you move the playback cursor; the Next and Prev buttons let you shift focus on tracks by 1 or 8 channels at a time
  • Workflow That Works: Every aspect of KeyLab MkII has been carefully crafted to keep distractions to a minimum, and provide time-saving shortcuts that will keep your mind in the game. KeyLab MkII features three distinct modes that you can instantly switch between for insanely efficient workflow
  • Analog Lab Included: Analog Lab gives you the best of 21 instruments that made music history, all in one convenient place. Analog synthesizers. Digital synthesizers. Acoustic pianos. Electric pianos. Organs. Strings machines
  • Get in Command: The original Arturia KeyLab made waves by giving musicians and producers in-depth command of their MIDI environment, while KeyLab MkII streamlined its functionality by giving you instant access to the features you use most often
  • Analog Lab Mode: It�s Analog Lab mode gives you ultimate control over this powerful included software, automatically mapping KeyLab MkII�s controls to specific functions and parameters within Analog Lab. The Category buttons let you immediately refine your search for the right sound, while the jog wheel gives you precise control over preset browsing and selection. The Live button can be used to activate Split mode and set the split point
#TOP 21

Novation 61SL MkIII, Midi & CV equipped Keyboard Controller

Novation

Features

  • Easily integrate hardware with your DAW
  • The perfect controller for Ableton Live music-making software
  • Internal 8 track pattern based sequencer
  • 1 routable clock for the whole system. Novation now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Novation products.
  • Bring MIDI hardware and CV/Gate synths together
#TOP 22

M-Audio Oxygen 61 (MKV) – 61 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads

M-Audio

Features

  • Every Tool You Need – Effortless auto-mapping for DAW controls & plugin parameters; Smart Chord & Smart Scale modes; Arpeggiator; pitch & mod wheels; sustain pedal input; USB MIDI cable included
  • Make Better Beats with these Beat Maker Must Haves - 2 banks of 8 backlit velocity sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat - for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering and more
  • Complete software production package Included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, 2 virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech (Hybrid 3 & Mini Grand) and 5 Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs
  • Follow the included download card to visit the M-Audio website and obtain all supplied software and firmware updates
  • Get Hands-on with Your Music Studio Equipment - 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders for tactile MIDI control of virtual synth parameters, effect plugins, DAW controls and more
  • Recording Studio Equipment Essential - MIDI controller with 61 velocity-sensitive full-size piano style keys delivers a natural response that gets the best from virtual sampler & synthesizer plugins
#TOP 23

Akai Professional Advance 61 Keyboard Controller

Akai Professional

Features

  • 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC pads with RGB illumination
  • Pre-mapped to hundreds of industry-leading virtual instruments Unlimited instances of VIP may be run in a DAW
  • Includes a 16GB download of sound content from AIR Music Technology SONiVOX, and Toolroom Records
  • 61-key Semi-weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, 8 Assignable Knobs, 8 Pads, Color Display, Dedicated Transport Controls and VIP Mapping Software
#TOP 24

midiplus Origin 62 61 Keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Midiplus

Features

  • The supplied USB MIDI out and keyboard MIDI out Can connect to other MIDI device by oneself. Sustain pedal interface (sustain pedal does not include). power supply: USB power
  • Attachment: Owner's manual, USB cable
  • 61 full size sensitive keys. Eight fully assignable 40 mm sliders. Eight fully programmable knobs. Four trigger pads. Six transport controls. Pitch bend wheel. Modulation wheel
#TOP 25

Korg Keyboard Amplifier

Korg

Features

  • Compact and playable natural touch Mini keyboard
  • Lavish array of powerful music software bundled free of charge
  • Connect with a single USB cable; supports Mac, WIN, iPad, and iPhone
  • Dedicated editor software "Kong Control editor" Is provided
  • Connect a pedal, and enjoy full control functionality"
#TOP 26

midiplus X6 mini -Key Controller

Midiplus

Features

  • Package Dimensions: 8.382 cms (L) x 19.558 cms (W) x 92.964 cms (H)
  • Product Type: Keyboard Instruments
  • Country Of Origin: China
  • Package Quantity: 1
#TOP 27

Novation Launchkey MK3 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Novation

Features

  • 5-Pin MIDI DIN Output: Launchkey MK3 61 is equipped with a full-size 5-pin MIDI DIN output, enabling simple connection to the universe of MIDI devices — new and old. Coupled with its immense standalone potential, Launchkey is now the centerpiece to your live or studio system — computer or not
  • Various Modes: Eight Scale modes guide you into new musical territory, by transposing keys played to notes in the scale selected. Simply choose your root note and your preferred scale, then play. Three Chord modes transform the keys and pads into an interactive surface of musical exploration, where every note played is tonally and harmonically linked. The arpeggiator lets you explore new melodies and find ideas quickly, while the mutate function reconstructs your patterns into exciting new forms
  • Bundle Includes: Novation Launchkey MK3 61-Key USB MIDI Ableton Keyboard Controller, Knox Gear Adjustable Double X Keyboard Stand, and On-Stage KSP100 Keyboard Piano Style Sustain Pedal (Black)
  • Customizable for Convenience: Custom Modes simplify the relationship between controller and software, with more power than ever in your hands. Programmable using the Novation Components browser-based tool, Custom Modes let you design the behavior of your Launchkey, with control over control assignments, MIDI routing, pad color and much more
  • Integration with Ableton Live: The integration with Ableton Live is truly seamless, with a dedicated button for activating the Capture MIDI function, plus track arm, quantize, click and loop controls, for flying around your Session faster than ever
#TOP 28

Nektar T6 DAW Controller (Panorama

Nektar

Features

  • CONNECTIONS USB port for power and data connection to your computer Foot switch jack, assignable (pedal not included) Expression pedal jack (pedal not included) MIDI Output On/off switch
  • Firmware update required on either Windows or Mac OSX. Firmware not update-able on Linux.
  • NOTE REPEAT Inspiring performance tool. Real-time control of trigger rate, accent, swing and gate. Separate settings for keys and pads. Switch on/off at any time with dedicated repeat buttons. Sync to external clock. Control velocity with pressure or wheels
  • NEKTARINE Instant access to Nectar plugin control in any VST/VST3/AU DAW. Customize mapping or create plugin maps from scratch. Browse patches directly from Panorama T6. Layer up to 8 VST/VST3/AU plugins with mix control of volume, pan, mute, solo and select
  • KEYS & PADS 49 or 61 note 2nd Gen synth-action keyboard with after touch. Expression & pedal sockets. 8 super-sensitive pads with pressure. Chord: Trigger up to 6 notes from one key or pad. Hold: Holds played notes until deactivated - great with legato
  • DAW CONTROL Nectar DAW integration included for Bigwig, Cubase, GarageBand, Logic, Unendow, Reason, Reaper and Studio One. MCU compatible for control of almost any other MIDI Music software
#TOP 29

Samson Carbon 61 USB MIDI Controller

Samson

Features

  • 61-key velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keyboard
  • Includes traditional MIDI Out, Sustain pedal input and USB connections
  • Assignable Data encoder and Volume slider
  • Dedicated Transpose and Octave buttons, Pitch Bend and Modulation wheels
  • Integrated iPad slot
#TOP 30

Korg, 61-Key Midi Controller

Korg

Features

  • Connect wirelessly to iPad, iPhone, or Mac
  • Lasts a month between battery changes
  • Lavish array of powerful music software bundled free of charge
  • Usb compatible
  • Compact and playable natural touch Mini keyboard
#TOP 31

midiplus USB MIDI Keyboard Controller (X6 Pro)

Midiplus

Features

  • 8 groups of adjustable velocity curve
  • 9 editable knob controllers with back light
  • 61 full size semi-weight velocity keys Build-in 128 high quality GM standard sounds
#TOP 32

Miditech i2-61 MIDI Keyboard Controller

Miditech

Features

  • i2-61 is midi keyboard controller with 61 full sized dynamic keys
  • Product design in black tone, simple but functional
  • Pitch bend/modulation wheels/Data entry slider/3-segment blue LED display
  • Supply USB MIDI connector/MIDI in/MIDI out/Sustain pedal port
#TOP 33

Oxygen 61 MK IV - 61-Key USB MIDI Drum Pad and Keyboard Controller

Amazon Renewed

Features

  • 8 velocity-sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching; 8 assignable knobs and 9 assignable faders for manipulating virtual instruments, DAW parameters and plugins - on-board LCD screen provides instant parameter feedback
  • Compact, ultra-portable performance keyboard controller with 61 full-size, synth-action velocity-sensitive keys and on-board pitch bend and modulation wheels for expressive performances
  • Dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full melodic range and transport buttons let you control your DAW without reaching for the mouse
  • Comprehensive production software package for Mac and PC worth over $100 included; Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist and AIR Music Tech Xpand!2
  • Innovative DirectLink automatically maps controls to popular DAWs including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase and more
  • Class compliant, plug-and-play functionality and USB powered specification for simple user-friendly setup
#TOP 34

Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

Roland

Features

  • USB-C connectivity and bus power
  • Built-to-last with wood and premium materials for years of dependable performance
  • Thin design with shallow depth fits today's studio environments
  • Three customizable zones, onboard arpeggiator, and chord memory
  • Eight RGB-lit assignable knobs, eight RGB-lit pads, and three pedal inputs
  • Control application for deep customization and instant recall
  • Unmatched playability with Roland's own PHA-4 keyboard
  • MIDI 2. 0 ready
#TOP 35

Nektar Impact GX61 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Bundle

Nektar

Features

  • Compatibility: Compatible with any music software for Windows and Mac OS
  • Bundle Includes: Nektar 61 Note USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, On Stage KSP100 Keyboard Piano Style Sustain Pedal (Black), Knox Gear Adjustable Double X Keyboard Stand, Knox Gear 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub, Knox Gear 61-Key Keyboard Dust Cover (Black)
  • Dynamic: Impact GX61 are dynamic and expressive instruments, tailored to composition and performance with your computer music system
  • Transport Extended: Eight buttons intended for DAW control, are at the center of Impact GX. Essential tasks like transport activation or track navigation are highly repetitive and reaching for the mouse every time, can kill any seed of inspiration
  • Nektar DAW Integration: Nektar DAW integration is carefully crafted to give the best experience with your Nektar hardware. It delivers the freedom to create, instead of having to reach for the mouse constantly when you are in the middle of capturing an idea

Things to Keep in Mind When Selecting the Perfect 61 key midi controllers

Is a weighted keyboard as good as a piano?

WHY ARE WEIGHTED KEYS BETTER FOR BEGINNERS THAN THOSE OF A KEYBOARD? Weighted keys will bring the beginner pianist closer to that of an acoustic piano, helping them feel the sensitivity required to push down the keys with different levels of control, as opposed to those on most keyboards that are unweighted.

What size MIDI controller should I buy?

A 25-key MIDI controller is fine for many producers who want to trigger samples or tap out a bassline. But a keyboardist who wants to play two-handed parts across octaves would be better off with the range that a 61 or 88-key MIDI controller provides.

How many keys is good for a MIDI controller?

A MIDI controller needs at least 25 keys, or two octaves, to be useful. The average number of keys is 49, or four octaves. However, the type of music you play, whether you need your controller to be portable, and how much space you have in your studio will impact how many keys are right for you.

Is it OK to learn piano on a 61 key keyboard?

For a beginner, 66 keys are sufficient for learning to play, and you can play most music on a 72-key instrument. For anyone interested in playing classical piano, however, a full 88 keys are recommended, especially if you plan on one day playing a traditional piano. Many keyboards have fewer than 66 keys.

Can you play most songs on a 49 key keyboard?

Although you can get two hands on a 49-key keyboard, it is limiting for a lot of songs, even pop songs that don't rely on using a big range and advanced techniques. Whether 49-keys is enough for your own needs comes down to personal opinion. If you just want to play a few chords, you might find that 49-keys is plenty.

Is buying a MIDI worth it?

As a general rule, it is worth having a MIDI keyboard in your home studio. Recording MIDI parts played on a keyboard is far easier than entering them in a piano roll editor or on-screen keyboard. Parts recorded from a keyboard also avoid sounding robotic, having been played by an actual human being.

Can a MIDI keyboard be used as a piano?

Can you use a midi keyboard as a piano? Not without speakers. MIDI keyboards tend to not have speakers inbuilt. Rather than being a complete console that can mimic a piano, it needs to be used in conjunction with something to generate the sound, such as a virtual instrument or a DAW.

Can you play most songs with 61 keys?

For most modern styles of music such as pop, rock, folk, etc. a keyboard/digital piano with 61 keys should be enough most of the time. Since the majority of the contemporary songs do not use more than 5 octaves, it should get you covered.

Is 61 keys enough for pop music?

For most modern styles of music such as pop, rock, folk, etc. a keyboard/digital piano with 61 keys should be enough most of the time. Since the majority of the contemporary songs do not use more than 5 octaves, it should get you covered.

Does a beginner need weighted keys?

WHY ARE WEIGHTED KEYS BETTER FOR BEGINNERS THAN THOSE OF A KEYBOARD? Weighted keys will bring the beginner pianist closer to that of an acoustic piano, helping them feel the sensitivity required to push down the keys with different levels of control, as opposed to those on most keyboards that are unweighted.

Are there any 61-key weighted keyboards?

Casio CT-X5000. The Casio stands out among the competition for having an excellent sound in the 61-key keyboard gamut. The keys are full-size and weighted for that natural piano touch.

Is 61 keys enough for MIDI controller?

61-key MIDI keyboard controllers are the sweet spot between 49 keys and 88 keys. They are big enough to play complex and interesting parts with both hands, but small enough to be portable.

Editor's Notes

Our experts spent 30 hours at the very least to come up with the list of the 35 best 61 key midi controllers the market has to offer. We've read 464 reviews, on 24 different trusted resources and made this compilation of the customers' favorites. These products have the average rating of 306, and, we've also analyzed the price range: on average, the selected 61 key midi controllers are available at $8777.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.