Best midi controllers for pro tools

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

Steve Romanoski

Last Updated: Sep 18, 2022

In this article, we've compiled the best midi controllers for pro tools you can find out there. We've found about 64 of midi controllers for pro tools and selected the 31 top options by Steinberg, JodyJazz, Harmony Audio, Aquila, MeloAudio. Read on to find out what exactly made us choose these ones.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

#TOP 1

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

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

#TOP 1

#TOP 2

Icon Pro Audio DAW Control Surface

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Icon Pro Audio DAW Control Surface

#TOP 2

#TOP 3

Novation Launch Control XL MkII

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Novation Launch Control XL MkII

#TOP 3

Top 31 Best midi controllers for pro tools Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

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

Novation

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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 2

Icon Pro Audio DAW Control Surface

Icon Pro Audio

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Stereo LED master channel level metering on metering bridge
Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a “greatest hits” collection of features from Harrison’s analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
8 touch-sensitive motorized channel faders
Mackie control build-in for Cubase, Nuendo, Samplitude, Logic Pro, Abelton Live, Reaper, Reasons, Studio One and Bit wig
12-segment LED channels level metering on metering bridge
1 touch-sensitive motorized fader for master channel

#TOP 3

Novation Launch Control XL MkII

Novation

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24 rotary pots with 300 degree motion. 24 multi-colour indicator LEDs - one for each pot. Eight 60mm Faders. 16 assignable multi-colour backlit buttons. Additional 8 assignable backlit buttons.
Create Your Own Layouts - Fully customisable with the included software editor.Plug Straight In - Bus powered and no drivers needed.16 Multi-color Buttons - 16 multi-color buttons for immediate Track Focus and key mixer controls.Get Started Immediately - Make music out of the box with included Ableton Live Lite software and Loopmasters sample collection
HUI compatibility for mixer control in DAWs including Cubase, Logic Pro and Pro Tools. HUI is not supported in Pro Tools First. Note: Due to the implementation of HUI in Pro Tools the LC XL pan controls will not always line up with their centre positions. Power Requirements: . USB bus powered, including iPad. Novation now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Novation products.
We recommend that you update to the latest version as previous versions of Ableton Live do not include the Launch Control integration. Launch Control will also work as a standard MIDI controller.
Assign buttons, knobs and faders to any parameters within Ableton Live to make your own layouts; customize knobs with your own colors; switch between your own mappings and Live's functionality

#TOP 4

Native Instruments Maschine Mk3 Drum Controller

Native Instruments

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Integrated hardware/software system includes sampler, arranger, mixer, FX, and more
Includes 25 GB KOMPLETE 11 SELECT library featuring 25 pro-quality studio and creative FX
Touch sensitive knobs for parameter tweaking. System requirements: Mac OS X 10.11 or macOS 10.12 (latest update), Intel Core i5, 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended),Windows 7, 8, or 10 (latest Service Pack, 32/64-bit), Intel Core i5 or equivalent CPU, 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended)
Pro-grade, 96 kHz / 24-bit audio interface with 2 x 1/4” TRS line outputs, 2 x 1/4” TRS line inputs, 1/4” dynamic mic input, stereo headphone output, 1 x MIDI In, 1 x MIDI out; 1 x Footswitch
Smart Strip for strumming notes, pitch bending sounds, performing with FX, and more. Compatible with all major DAWs (including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, GarageBand, FL Studio, Avid Pro Tools, PreSonus Studio One, and more) as a VST, Audio Units, or AAX 32 and AAX 64 plug-in with full multi-core support

#TOP 5

M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3

M-Audio

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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 - 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys provide a natural feel that captures every subtle nuance of your performance
Your Studio Centrepiece - Compact design fits any desk, studio or stage setup perfectly and advanced functionality customizes your controls for your recording software
Premium Software suite included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Velvet, XPand 2, Mini Grand, and Touch Loops
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 6

AKAI Professional Fire (Software Bundle)

Akai Professional

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Workflow Revolution - 64 velocity-sensitive RGB Pads for creation of patterns in the step sequencer and recording notes / synth parts on a pad-based MIDI keyboard controller in Performance mode
Beat Production Simplified – Transform Fire into a beat maker essential with a MPC Style 16-pad layout in Drum Mode
Maximum Tweak-Ability - 4 banks of assignable Touch-Capacitive MIDI knobs / encoders for controlling Mixer, Channel and custom User-Assignable mappings
FL Studio Music Production Essential- Dedicated USB MIDI hardware controller for the FL Studio DAW platform with seamless plug-and-play connectivity
Includes FL Studio Fruity Fire Edition (Download) - Complete Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) with unlimited tracks, on-board effects and virtual instruments, full automation functionality and more
Improved Navigation - Instantly navigate the Channel Rack, Browser, Tool Bar and Playlist windows; dedicated controls to browse audio and project files with clear feedback from the OLED display

#TOP 7

Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key

Novation

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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 8

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII

Akai Professional

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Total Control Wherever You Go - USB MIDI keyboard controller with 25 velocity-sensitive keys and octave up / down buttons to access the full melodic range – perfect virtual synthesizer control
Plug & Play – No drivers required, USB powered and ultra-portable design lets you create anywhere
Take Command of Your DAW - 8 fully-assignable Q-Link knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins and more
1400 Sounds and Everything You Need For Pro Production - Production software package for Mac and PC included: AKAI Pro MPC Beats, SONiVOX Wobble, and Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech (downloads)
The MPC Production Experience - Includes MPC Beats Software compete with the finest features and essential production tools from the AKAI Professional MPC Series
Beat Maker Essentials - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC drum pads with note repeat & full level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual instrument / DAW controls
Express Yourself - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation MIDI control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes

#TOP 9

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII

Akai Professional

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Full-size sustain pedal input jack

#TOP 10

M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini – 32 Key USB Keyboard Controller

M-Audio

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Beat Maker Mainstays - 8 RGB backlit MIDI assignable velocity sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering and more
Total Command of Your Music Production - 4 assignable knobs, buttons and faders for tactile MIDI control of virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAW controls and more
MIDI Keyboard Essentials - 32 velocity-sensitive, semi weighted keys 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
Complete software production package Included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech and Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs
Every Tool You Need – Effortless auto-mapping for DAW controls & plugin parameters; Smart Chord & Smart Scale modes; Arpeggiator; pitch & modulation wheels; sustain pedal input; 1/8-inch (3.5mm) MIDI Output

#TOP 11

Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface

Korg

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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 12

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII – 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Drum Pads

Akai Professional

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Features

Dedicated buttons for Note Repeat, Full Level, and Octave Up and Down
Powered by USB connection to computer, with free virtual-instrument download packages
Compact keyboard controller easily fits backpack and studio production desk (12.4" long, 1.6 lbs)
Crammed full of all the features you need to play and edit musical ideas
25-synth-action mini-keys, 8 velocity-sensitive rubber drum pads with two banks, and eight assignable control knobs
1400 Sounds and Everything You Need For Pro Production: Production software package for Mac and PC included: Akai Pro MPC Essentials, SONiVOX Wobble, and Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech (downloads)

#TOP 13

M-Audio Oxygen 25 IV

M-Audio

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Innovative DirectLink automatically maps controls to popular DAWs including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase and more
Compact, ultra portable performance keyboard controller with 25 full size, synth action velocity sensitive keys and on board pitch bend and modulation wheels for expressive performances
Comprehensive production software package for Mac and PC worth over dollar 100 included; Ableton Live Lite, SONiVOX Twist and AIR Music Tech Xpand
8 velocity sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching, and 8 assignable knobs for manipulating virtual instruments, DAW parameters and plugins on board LCD screen provides instant parameter feedback
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
Class compliant, plug and play functionality and USB powered specification for simple user friendly setup

#TOP 14

AKAI Professional MPD218

Akai Professional

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iOS Connectivity Covered - Control your iOS apps and open up a world of pad control capability using the Camera Connection Kit (sold separately)
The MPC Production Experience - Includes MPC Beats Software complete with the finest features and essential production tools from the Akai Professional MPC Series
Assignable Control - 18 fully assignable 360-Degree potentiometers accessible via three banks for controlling DAW, virtual effect and virtual instrument parameters
Expandable Banks - Easily accessible dedicated controls for three pad banks provides a total of 48 assignable pads
Feature Packed - MPC note repeat and full level controls for immersive expressive performances
Beat Production, Anywhere - Ultra-portable, feature-packed and USB powered pad controller with 16 thick fat MPC pads for triggering drums, melodic samples, effects and more
Comprehensive Software Suite Included - Ableton Live Lite, Drum Synth 500 by AIR Music Tech

#TOP 15

PreSonus FaderPort 16 16-channel Mix Production Controller

PreSonus

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Faders also have alternative modes to control plug-ins, bus sends, and pan position.
Mix with precision via 16 100 mm touch-sensitive motorized faders and 89 buttons covering 104 different functions, all in a compact chassis that easily sits on any desk.
Also compatible with almost all recording software for Mac and Windows, including Logic Pro X, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools via Mackie Control Universal and Mackie HUI emulation.
Footswitch jack included for hands-free punch in/out during recording (footswitch not included).
Contains complete recording-transport controls, general session controls, marker navigation controls, channel controls, and automation controls.
Features 16 high-definition Scribble Strip displays so you can identify channels at a glance.
Connects via USB 2.0 for easy connectivity.
Innovative Session Navigator provides quick control over Track and Timeline Scrolling, Zooming, Master fader control, and much more.
Native MIDI control map for advanced users to create customized macros
Comes with over $1000 worth of recording software including Studio One Artist (for which it has seamless & native support), Ableton Live Lite, and Studio Magic plug-in suite.

#TOP 16

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

M-Audio

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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 17

PreSonus ATOM Production & Performance Midi Pad Controller

PreSonus

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Includes MVP Loops content custom-curated for ATOM.
Set looping points, navigate the timeline, zoom in/out on the timeline or events, and edit/quantize MIDI events.
Compatible with most music production and performance software via USB.
Produce, play virtual instruments, and trigger samples and loops with unsurpassed expressiveness and flexibility.
Trigger loops and effects and play virtual instruments with 16 full-size velocity- and pressure-sensitive, RGB LED pads (and 8 assignable pad banks).
Tight integration with included Studio One Artist and Ableton Live (live 10 Lite included) music production software gets your mind off the screen and back on the beat.
Equipped with 20 assignable buttons and 4 endless rotary encoders.
Comes with over $1000 of computer recording software plug-ins – Studio Magic Plug-In Suite.
MIDI "keyboard" mode, Note Repeat mode, and Full Velocity mode (application dependent).
Selectable pad velocity curves and pressure thresholds customize the pads' response for maximum expression.

#TOP 18

Icon Pro Audio, ICOC-PLATFORMMM+

Icon Pro Audio

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1-year warranty (18-month with registration) valid if purchased from authorized US dealers
Class-compliant with macOS Big Sur (M1 and Intel Compatible), Windows 10, and Windows 8/7 (32 & 64-bit)
Platform D2 optional LCD display available separately
Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a "greatest hits" collection of features from Harrison's analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Mackie control built-in for Cubase, Nuendo, Amplitude, Logic Pro, Able ton Live, Reaper, Reason, Studio One and Bit wig
8+1 touch-sensitive motorized faders with 10-bit resolution
8 dual-function encoder knobs (rotate and enter)

#TOP 19

QCon Pro G2 8-channel universal DAW control surface

Icon Pro Audio

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Features

Large backlit LCD to display channel name, control values etc. For each channel
Presets and overlays for Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, studio One, digital performer, FL studio, amplitude, Reaper, Bitwig, Reason, Sonar, and Audition
Universal DAW control surface with Mackie control and HUI
Illuminated buttons for each channel including rec-enable, solo, mute, select and monitor
9 touch-sensitive motorized faders
Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a “greatest hits” collection of features from Harrison’s analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration

#TOP 20

M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro – 88 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Piano Style Weighted Hammer Action Keys

M-Audio

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Complete software production package Included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, AIR Music Tech’s Velvet, Mini Grand, Hybrid 3, and Touch Loops
Traditional Piano Feel - 88 velocity-sensitive, graded, hammer action weighted keys with aftertouch and assignable zones for playing virtual sampler instruments and virtual synthesizer plugins
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
Every Tool You Need – Auto-mapping for DAW & plugin parameters; Smart Chord & Scale modes; Arpeggiator; pitch & mod wheels; 3 foot switch pedal inputs and 1 expression pedal input; 5-pin MIDI Output
Studio Equipment Must Haves - 16 RGB backlit MIDI assignable velocity sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat for beat production, clip launching, soundboard triggering and more

#TOP 21

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

Akai Professional

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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 22

M-Audio Oxygen 49 (MKV) – 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads

M-Audio

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Features

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
Recording Studio Equipment Essential - MIDI controller with 49 velocity-sensitive full-size piano style keys delivers a natural response that gets the best from virtual sampler & synthesizer plugins
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
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
Follow the included download card to visit the M-Audio website and obtain all supplied software and firmware updates

#TOP 23

Korg Midi Controller (NANOKONST)

Korg

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USB and wireless for more music production freedom.
Refined and stylish design
A compact physical MIDI controller that’s ideal for mobile or desktop uses.
Please Note: Kindly refer the User Manual before use.

#TOP 24

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3

M-Audio

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Features

Immediate Creativity - Simple plug-and-play connection to your Mac or PC—no drivers or power supply required
Pro Music Production Wherever You Go – USB MIDI keyboard controller with slimline footprint and 32 mini piano style velocity-sensitive keys for a natural feel
The MPC Production Experience - Includes MPC Beats Software complete with the essential production tools from Akai Professional
Express Yourself - Octave up and down buttons for extended keyboard range, Volume knob delivers smooth control and Sustain button adds expressive capability
Customisable Response – Mini keys with selectable velocity curves match any playing style inc’l traditional piano, synthesizer, key-based beat making; pitch bend / modulation buttons add expression

#TOP 25

Orba by Artiphon | Portable synth

Artiphon

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Reviews for Artiphon PBM Score

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Customer Reviews

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 26

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 USB MIDI Keyboard 25 Keys Controller

Novation

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Reviews for Novation PBM Score

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Customer Reviews

Features

Three chord modes (fixed, scale and user) let you trigger chords with one finger.
Velocity-sensitive keyboard and 16 velocity-sensitive pads enable expressive and dynamic performance
CR3-X monitors deliver a combination of high-quality components and professional build quality typically only found on more expensive studio monitors. But, they are affordable and ultra-compact
Ableton Live Lite included & 4 GB of Loopmasters sounds and samples
One-touch access to Ableton Live’s Capture MIDI feature means you’ll never lose an idea.

#TOP 27

AKAI Professional MIDImix

Akai Professional

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Features

Mixdown Essentials - 8 individual line faders and 1 master fader for controlling track volume, virtual instrument parameters, effect settings and more
Assignable Control - 24 knobs, arranged 3 per channel for controlling EQ, bus sends, virtual instrument parameters, effect settings and more
Complete Mix Control - Lightweight, compact and robust ultra-portable MIDI mixer / DAW controller seamlessly maps all mixer settings to your DAW with a single push of a button
Get Hands-On - 16 buttons arranged in 2 banks provide mute, solo and record arm functionality per channel
Effortless Ableton Live Integration - Instant 1 to 1 mapping with Ableton Live (Ableton Live Lite included)

#TOP 28

IK Multimedia iRig Keys 2 Mini 25 mini-key MIDI controller

IK Multimedia

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Reviews for IK Multimedia PBM Score

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Customer Reviews

Features

2.5mm MIDI input & output
25 mini velocity-sensitive mini-keys
Works with iPhone, iPad, Mac, PC (Android cable sold separately)
Stand-alone mode lets you control MIDI outboard gear
Headphone output for use with the latest devices

#TOP 29

Icon ICOK-IKEYBOARD8X iKeyboard 8X

Icon Pro Audio

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Reviews for Icon Pro Audio PBM Score

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Features

Controller provides pitch bend and modulation wheels, and Octave and Transpose up/down buttons
Class-compliant with macOS Big Sur (M1 and Intel Compatible), Windows 10, and Windows 8/7 (32 & 64-bit)
Full sized piano keys are semi-weighted to provide realistic piano action
Built-in presets for Pro Tools, Cubase, Nuendo, Samplitude, Logic Pro, Ableton Live
Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a “greatest hits” collection of features from Harrison’s analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Backlit LED touch fader reacts in real-time with DAW
88-key midi keyboard controller with a single channel DAW controller in a rugged metal enclosure

#TOP 30

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

Btuty

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Reviews for Btuty PBM Score

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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 31

Icon i-Controls - Potable 9-Fader MIDI Controller

Icon Pro Audio

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Reviews for Icon Pro Audio PBM Score

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Customer Reviews

Features

Class-compliant with macOS Big Sur (M1 and Intel Compatible), Windows 10, and Windows 8/7 (32 & 64-bit)
Recall up to 4 scenes for instant control of various applications
Slim and compact mixing controller with 9 faders, 9 encoders, and 18 buttons, and an x/Y joystick
Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a “greatest hits” collection of features from Harrison’s analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Includes imap software for quick and easy MIDI Mapping
Presets built-in for Pro Tools, Cubase, Nuendo, amplitude, Logic Pro, and able ton Live

Choosing the Perfect midi controllers for pro tools: What to Consider Beforhand

Do Native instruments work with Pro Tools?

Inserting a NI Instrument Plug-in A NI instrument plug-in has to be inserted in a Pro Tools Instrument track. Open a Pro Tools Session and choose Track > New from the menu bar. In the New Tracks dialog you can define the properties of the new track you want to create.

Why do most studios use Pro Tools?

Professionals use Pro Tools for simple recording, mixing, film scoring, music editing, film/television audio post-production…the list goes on and on. It offers lots of additional features, including a huge amount of automation, digital processing, and even surround sound mixing.

Which MIDI controllers work with Pro Tools?

Just to recap, here is our list of the best MIDI keyboard for Pro Tools sorted by category: Akai Pro Advance 49 (Best overall) Alesis VI49 (Best budget) Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49 MK2 (Best performance)

What can Pro Tools do that logic Cannot?

Logic Pro X has limited useful features for audio post-production. The organization for audio files is not as deep and intuitive as Pro Tools, you cant have multiple video tracks, the editing tools aren't as snappy, and you can only work on one system at a time.

Why is my MIDI keyboard not working in Pro Tools?

Under Setup > MIDI > Input Devices, check if your MIDI controller is listed here and if it's checked. If it's not listed, then most likely there is a problem with the controller itself. Check with the controller manufacturer or the user guide for instructions on how to install/setup this specific device.

Can I use MPK mini for Pro Tools?

Pro Tools First comes with a free multi-timbral virtual instrument called AIR Xpand! 2 that you can use to play your MPK mini mkII. Please Note: While your MPK mini mkII comes with its own plugins like AIR Hybrid and SONiVOX Wobble, Pro Tools First does not allow the use of third-party plugins.

Does MPK mini come with software?

MPK mini comes bundled with professional production software and virtual instruments for immediate music creation.

Editor's Notes

Overall, our testing team spent 42 hours on the research prior to come up with the list of the 31 best midi controllers for pro tools out there. We've read 1515 reviews, on 12 different trusted resources and made this compilation of the customers' favorites. These products have the average rating of 274, and, we've also considered the price range: on average, the selected midi controllers for pro tools are available at $7077.

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.