0 Best midi controllers for live performance under 100 of 2023

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Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Sep 24, 2022

No matter what your intentions and budget are, we got you covered with this list of the 0 best midi controllers for live performance under 100 by Nobels, Libretto, OnStage, Lohanu, D Z Strad. We took the time to do a thorough research and point out some pros and cons of each of the options we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend endless hours searching for the ideal model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed
#TOP 1
Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed
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Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed
Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed
#TOP 1
Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad
#TOP 2
Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad
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Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad
Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad
#TOP 2
Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key
#TOP 3
Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key
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Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key
Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key
#TOP 3

Top 11 Best midi controllers for live performance under 100 Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed

Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed
Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed Thumb #1 Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed Thumb #2 Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed Thumb #3 Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed Thumb #4 Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed Thumb #5 Arturia MINILAB MKII Universal MIDI Controller MiniLab MkII Keyboard Controller Features a Great-Feeling Keybed Thumb #6
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Features

  • Not everyone has the luxury of a spacious studio, and this is where our reinvented controller really shines. MiniLab MkII has a tiny footprint allowing you to place it virtually anywhere within your set-up, even if the only space available is on your lap. The quality of every component has seen an improvement over the original model, from the keybed to the controller knobs, the touch sensors to the outer casing. Despite the hardware upgrade
  • Helping you make the most of your virtual instruments and recording software, MiniLab MkII features a great-feeling keybed with 25 slim-keys, 16 knobs, 8 pads, and touch controls in a space-saving package. Whether you want to experiment with a bass line, tap out a solid drum beat, or tweak the parameters of your favorite synth patch, our new controller gives you the freedom to totally control your music any way you like
  • MiniLab MkII is a high quality, feature-packed controller which gives you hands-on access to the sounds in your virtual studio. Breathe new life into your sounds by playing, tweaking, tapping and twisting its rugged controls.
  • Created with the mobile musician in mind, MiniLab MkII has a slim, compact profile which makes it perfect for transporting to and from gigs, and for keeping you creating when you’re travelling. With its rugged, durable construction, the revitalized MiniLab can take the strain of life on the road, ready to perform night after night.
  • This powerful controller also comes with several critically acclaimed software titles that will have you creating professional recordings in no time. Analog Lab Lite lets you perform using hundreds of legendary synth, piano, organ & string machine sounds. Ableton Live Lite lets you record, arrange, and cultivate your musical ideas into a finished product. UVI Grand is a recreation of the Steinway Model D piano.
#TOP 2

Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad

Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad
Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad Thumb #1 Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad Thumb #2 Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad Thumb #3 Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad Thumb #4 Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad Thumb #5 Novation Launchpad Mini [MK3] — Portable MIDI 64-Pad Thumb #6
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Features

  • Full of customisation for your needs - Novation Components is a tool to help you customise your Launchpad Mini. With three Custom Modes, edit mappings and control anything MIDI easily.
  • Seamless performances made easy - 64 vibrant RGB pads give you a perfect reflection of your Ableton Live session, making it easier than ever to see your clips. Know exactly which clips you are triggering for a seamless performance.
  • Anytime. Anywhere. The portable device - Small and light, Launchpad Mini’s slim, lightweight design means it’ll fit into any setup, so that you have the control you need at all times. The bus-powered hardware is perfect for when you’re travelling around and need to save important space for your other items.
  • Get started easily - It’s never been easier to get started. Download all the software you want with step-by-step video guides to get you set up and making music in minutes through Novation's interactive on boarding.
  • The perfect companion for Ableton Live - Quickly launch your clips and scenes at the press of a button with our exceptional Ableton Live Integration. Stop, Solo, and Mute controls make it easier and more tactile to control your performances right from your Launchpad Mini, no mouse needed.
#TOP 3

Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key

Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key
Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key Thumb #1 Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key Thumb #2 Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key Thumb #3 Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key Thumb #4 Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key Thumb #5 Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key Thumb #6
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Features

  • Play chords with one finger - Lay down chords for your track quick with fixed chord mode. 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.
  • Get hands on with Ableton Live - Have a seamless music making experience with Ableton Live and your Launchkey Mini. 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.
  • Get creative easily 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 melodies.
  • DAW Integration - In addition to Apple Logic and Ableton Live, Launchkey Mini also has excellent integrations with Reason, as well as any HUI compatible DAW, such as Cubase, Pro Tools, and more.
  • Finest-tech at your fingertips - The Launchkey Mini might be small in size but it’s packed with features. The 25-key device has 16 velocity-sensitive RGB, eight rotary controls, pitch and mod touch strips, and sustain input. Our finest mini keymech to date is also included.
  • Launchkey Mini goes anywhere with you - Send apps and program changes to your hardware synths with MIDI Out, or add keys to your Groovebox directly over MIDI. Launchkey Mini’s lightweight and compact design means it goes anywhere you do. The hardware is bus-powered which is great for travelling and jamming on the go.
#TOP 4

Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH)

Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH)
Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH) Thumb #1 Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH) Thumb #2 Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH) Thumb #3 Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH) Thumb #4 Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH) Thumb #5 Korg, 1-Key Midi Controller (NANOKON2WH) Thumb #6
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Features

  • New track select and marker advance parameters
  • Low-profile, multi-function control surface
  • Supports numerous software titles including major DAW programs
#TOP 5

Monoprice Midi Controller

Monoprice Midi Controller
Monoprice Midi Controller Thumb #1 Monoprice Midi Controller Thumb #2 Monoprice Midi Controller Thumb #3 Monoprice Midi Controller Thumb #4 Monoprice Midi Controller Thumb #5
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Features

  • Aims to provide the power and flexibility of a modern studio centerpiece in a portable and ultra-compact package.
  • Portable for the Road: The SRP12 is USB powered, so you can take it with you and use it with your laptop anywhere.
  • Compact enough to fit into a backpack, the SRP12 is the ideal controller to keep you working on tracks while on the road or away from the studio.
  • Velocity Sensitive Pads: The SRP12 features 12 backlit, velocity sensitive pads, which are ideal for tapping out beats, triggering samples, composing melodies, or playing any type of virtual instrument.
  • Transport Control: The 6 MIDI Machine Control (MMC) buttons allow you to control a sequencer, but can also be mapped for transport control within any DAW software.
#TOP 6

AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker

AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker
AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker Thumb #1 AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker Thumb #2 AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker Thumb #3 AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker Thumb #4 AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker Thumb #5 AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play – USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With a Built in Speaker Thumb #6
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Features

  • Play Anywhere – Built in speaker, 1/8-inch headphone output and battery powered specification (3 x AA batteries – not included) for performing and producing on the go
  • Pro Software Suite – Includes Akai Pro MPC Beats, AIR Music Tech Hybrid 3 and SONiVOX Wobble (downloads)
  • The MPC Production Experience - Includes MPC Beats Software complete with the finest features and essential production tools from the Akai Professional MPC Series
  • Standalone Piano Style Keyboard – Portable mini keyboard and USB MIDI controller with 25 velocity-sensitive synthesizer action keys, pitch/mod joystick control, plus 128 sounds and 10 drum kits
  • Beat Maker Essential – Two banks of eight ultra-responsive backlit MIDI drum pads with Note Repeat and Full Level functions for drum machine style performance and music production
  • Tweak, Customize – Two banks of four knobs (eight total) to tweak internal sounds or software parameters; in standalone mode control chorus, reverb, filter, EQ and envelope controls
#TOP 7

Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller

Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller
Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller Thumb #1 Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller Thumb #2 Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller Thumb #3 Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller Thumb #4 Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller Thumb #5 Allen & Heath AH-XONE:K2 XONE:K2 Professional USB DJ MIDI Controller Thumb #6
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Features

  • Includes durable black padded case that doubles as a stand
  • Extremely durable, touring grade build quality
  • Universal MIDI controller for use with any DJ software
  • Minimal design with slim line chassis and soft touch controls
  • 12 analog and 6 endless rotary encoders with push switch
#TOP 8

Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth

Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth
Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth Thumb #1 Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth Thumb #2 Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth Thumb #3 Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth Thumb #4 Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth Thumb #5 Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth Thumb #6
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Features

  • Play through the built-in speaker or use the ⅛” jack to connect headphones or amplifiers
  • Make music anywhere with Orba by Artiphon, a handheld synth, looper, and MIDI controller
  • Use Tilt, Shake, Bump, and other gestures to play the touch-sensitive pads and control Orba with the way you move
  • Loop Drum, Bass, Chord, and Lead parts to create songs on the fly
  • Pair wirelessly to the Orba App to customize your instrument and save your creations
#TOP 9

midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #1 midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #2 midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #3 midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #4 midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #5 midiplus AKM322 mini size 32 keys USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #6
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Features

  • AKM322 is made up of 32 velocity-sensitive keys, 1 endless encoder, 3 rotary knobs and 11 function Buttons with LED back lit. The internal arpeggiator can build sequences with flexible possibilities
  • Dew transport controls (Play, stop, Rec, scene up/down, play/ stop clips, overdub, set marker, marker left/right, cycle, tap, metronome) on board arpeggiator with multiple modes and internal/external MIDI clock
  • The chord Mode can punch out different combinations of keys. The scale Mode helps you hit the right key every time by playing the correct tones matched to the chosen Scale
  • Shift button for second layer control and choose between two performance scenes fully USB powered controller requires no external power source
  • Chord feature: easily play the most common chords in this versatile Mode Scale Mode: Choose from four different scales and always hit the right key
#TOP 10

Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller

Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller
Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller Thumb #1 Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller Thumb #2 Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller Thumb #3 Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller Thumb #4 Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller Thumb #5 Btuty Portable Mini USB 9 Slim-Line Control MIDI Controller Keyboard Controller Thumb #6
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Features

  • Comes with editor software.
  • 4 programmable memory banks.
  • 9 MIDI control groups: 9 knobs + 9 sliders + 9 buttons.
  • Plug and Play USB 2.0 cable, no need of driver installation.
  • 6 transport buttons: Rew, Play, FF, Loop, Stop, Rec.
#TOP 11

Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #1 Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #2 Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #3 Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #4 Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #5 Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Thumb #6
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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

Editor's Notes

Overall, our testing team spent 69 hours on the research prior to come up with the list of the 0 best midi controllers for live performance under 100 out there. We've read 1700 reviews, on 8 different trusted resources and made this compilation of the customers' favorites. These products have the average rating of 0, and, we've also considered the price range: on average, the selected midi controllers for live performance under 100 are available at $0.

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.