Best MIDI Keyboards in 2022

Have you been into music for a long time or have you just started? Need a new assistant to make the process of creating and writing music easier? Then we recommend reading our article. It will tell you about the best midi keyboards.

What is a midi keyboard?

This is a digital device that records the sounds of various instruments and allows you to quickly control recording programs. The musician will be able to create drum and keyboard parts and easily use the sequencer.

It is important to remember that the keyboard does not have speakers that can play sound. Accordingly, it is necessary to connect to a computer where special programs are already installed.

How is it different from a synthesizer?

• the functionality of the keyboard is more scarce, and also cannot be used without additional devices (computer);
• the synthesizer is an independent device, but as additional functions it can also be connected to a PC, but basically no auxiliary equipment is needed for its operation.

Why then buy a keyboard if the synthesizer fully copes with its tasks?

Pros and cons of MIDI keyboards

• miniature size - for a small studio this is the most suitable option;
• cost - it is logical that even the most expensive keyboard will cost less than a professional synthesizer;
• quality - since the only important thing in this device is the keyboard itself, respectively, manufacturers need to pay more attention to only one detail;
• simplicity - when connected to a PC, there will not be as many problems as there are when working with a synthesizer;

• it's just a dummy if you don't use a PC.

It's time to review the ranking of the best MIDI keyboards.

Top 7 MIDI Keyboards for Beginner Musicians in 2022

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3

1 place

Convenient and pleasant to use device. Suitable for recording voices.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	32
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	missing
average price	6000 rub.

• design;
• compactness;
• price;
• backlight.

• does not work with macbook;
• small key travel.

The technique is suitable for recording individual short musical phrases, parts. For beginners, one of the most suitable options. It will turn out to fill your hand and understand the principle of work.

Roland A-49

2nd place

High-quality four octave equipment, which will be an excellent assistant in stuffing the accompaniment of any music and selecting notes.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	13000 rub.

• responsive;
• quality assembly;
• connects to everything;
• infrared control sensor;
• sensitivity;
• design;
• obedient;
• easy to use.

• There were no cons when using it.

Complete value for money. It is a real pleasure to play on such a device.

KORG nanoKEY2

3rd place

The model is very sensitive to touch, and the keys are made in such a way that there is no chance of hitting the wrong note.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	missing
average price	4600 rub.

• dimensions;
• quality;
• convenient to take with you;
• price.

• Buyers did not find any cons when using the device.

This device is particularly durable and easy to use.

AKAI LPK25

4th place

A compact model that will help beginners express themselves. The device has 4 memory cells for saving user settings, which is very convenient for constant use.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	missing
average price	5000 rub.

• light;
• two full aftermaths (despite the miniature size);
• work without drivers;
• arpeggio function.

• narrow keys.

Suitable for beginners to get their hands on. It is difficult to "fill the drums" without the use of additional devices (in this case, a computer mouse).

Acorn Masterkey 61

5th place

The full-size five-octave keyboard fits into even the tightest of spaces.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	9000 rub.

• good build;
• extended midi functions;
• the ability to shift the range of the keyboard;
• the modulation and tone change wheels are rubberized, so the possibility of loss of control over the control of the musician is reduced to zero;
• convenient to connect.

• not very reliable fastening of the keys.

This model will successfully fit into the musician's desktop. With it, you can create incredible works, because the manufacturer has added everything that the performer needs to the device.

IK Multimedia iRig Keys 37

6th place

The device works great with all PCs and even Macs (this is rare for a budget price category). Can be connected to a mobile phone. There are also holes for an expression and sustain pedal.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	37
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	6000 rub.

• comfortable to work;
• quality assembly;
• the size;
• the presence of pitch and modulation;
• light;
• does not require driver configuration.

• cheap assembly material;
• high price.

The surface is quite sensitive, so there are no problems during operation. Upon purchase, samples of various instruments are given as a gift.

Alesis V25

7th place

A powerful tool that will help in the management of many music software. Eight pads allow you to play parts with drum roll and record various clips.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	10000 rub.

• the size;
• comfortable key diameter;
• softness when pressed;
• smooth "twists";
• does not slip;
• soft backlight.

• pads are scratched.

The device works flawlessly with the best programs (Ableton Live and XPAND!2). The body of the gadget itself is so compact that it will fit anywhere.

So, for beginners, the market offers a sufficient number of MIDI keyboards in the middle price segment.

Consider the equipment rating for professional musicians.

Top 6 Best MIDI Keyboards for Professionals in 2022

ROLI Seaboard RISE 49

1 place

The device has silicone keys that respond to various types of touches and blows. In addition, if desired, you can adjust the degree of sensitivity. And with built-in Bluetooth, it's even easier to use.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	USB Type A, B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	111000 rub.

• 5D Touch technology;
• many sounds;
• software package;
• the ability to play wirelessly;
• reliable assembly;
• durable.

• price;
• no power supply.

The gadget helps to realize even the most sophisticated fantasies of a musician. Sounds can be changed as you like: deepen, bend, and so on.

Akai mpk mini mk2

2nd place

Miniature and functional keyboard. Despite its size, it offers as many as 8 spinners, excellent pads.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	25
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	13000 rub.

• functional;
• pads;
• faders;
• dimensions;
• the presence of software that configures the controller.

• no support in "fl";
• plastic case.

Full compliance with price - quality. The device fully justifies its cost. Copes with all assigned tasks.

Novation Impulse 61

3rd place

Musicians are delighted with the functionality of the technique and the degree of integration with other applications.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	MIDI in, MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	30000 rub.

• pleasant surface of the instrument;
• powerful functionality;
• reliable;
• multitasking.

• soft pitch handle;
• too sensitive pads.

Technique helps to create such music that everyone is amazed at its sound. The controller also helps to bind various buttons, knobs, which will allow the performer to work in any direction.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 61

4th place

The device features total integration with DAW.A bonus for the musician is the "Chord play" function, with which you can play chords with just one button.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	MIDI output, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	20000 rub.

• functional;
• design;
• good software included.

• short wire;

The LCD display allows you to view Analog Lab presets.

M-Audio Code 61

5th place

The keyboard impresses everyone with its design, huge variety of controllers and aftertouch function.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	61
Connection	MIDI in, MIDI out, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	32400 rub.

• comfortable use;
• appearance;
• there are no problems with the setting;
• separate editor;
• the ability to switch octaves separately from the pads.

• Some buttons make sounds when pressed.

Great device for professional musicians. It is possible to create beats, various kinds of melodies with it.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 49

6th place

The manufacturer used synth mechanics that are velocity sensitive.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	MIDI output, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	22500 rub.

• high-quality case;
• moderately sensitive pads;
• design;
• the size;
• good software included.

• tight pads.

Controls are conveniently located on the keyboard. For the most comfortable use, the equipment was equipped with the "Chord" function.

Thus, professional MIDI keyboards differ in many ways from similar devices for beginners.Moreover, the cost varies from medium to high price segment.

Not everyone can afford to open a studio, so you have to work from home and create your own home studio. Consider the rating of popular MIDI keyboards for home studios.

Top 4 Best MIDI Keyboards for Home Studios in 2022

Akai MPK249

1 place

A device that combines full software integration and enhanced performance for the musician.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	46000 rub.

• responsive pads;
• functionality;
• backlight;
• comfortable use.

• Buyers did not find any cons.

With the help of the built-in arpeggiator, you can turn any ideas into reality. The manufacturer also pleased with two sound layers, which allows you to create an individual base for each patch.

Native Instruments Kit Kontrol S49

2nd place

An unusual bonus of the device is a touch-sensitive jog dial. In addition, this model offers users a fully customizable arpeggiator mode.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	49
Connection	MIDI output, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	63200 rub.

• good integration with all settings;
• fast automation;
• does not slow down;
• backlight;
• the possibility of freely assigning midi.

• few faders.

The manufacturer has created such a model that the musician can use the keyboard without a sequencer. A special program that needs to be installed works like a synthesizer in combination with the keyboard.

IK Multimedia iRig Keys PRO

3rd place

Compact model, but with full-sized three octave keys, which provides comfortable work at home.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	37
Connection	USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	9500 rub.

• the size;
• appearance;
• functional;
• software.

• Not detected.

A good option for a home studio. Small, functional and fully optimized model.

Nektar Impact LX88+

4th place

88 semi-weighted keys with incredible touch sensitivity. Musicians are given the option to layer the panel itself, and the Grab mode lets you set instrument parameters for various controls.

Options	Characteristic
Number of keys	88
Connection	MIDI output, USB Type B
Pedals	pluggable
average price	29000 rub.

• functional;
• pads;
• faders;
• the ability to store 5 user presets;
• transposition;
• a pitch bend controller is available;
• appearance;
• a huge number of programs with which the device integrates.

• big size;
• weighs a lot.

This technique will become an indispensable assistant in creating and correcting music. A bonus to the appearance is also a colorful three-digit LED display.

So, home studio models are not much different from the previous options in our rating, but they still have some features.

How to choose?

When buying, you should pay attention to:

1. Connection type. The year is 2022 and therefore it is worth buying such equipment only with a USB connection. If it is only a MIDI cable, then problems are guaranteed.
2. Determine the desired number of keys and octaves. If the equipment is purchased for a home studio, then from 2 to 6 octaves is quite enough (this is 20, 30, 40 or 60). For a more advanced level, you can purchase a device for more than 80.
3. It is worth paying attention to the pads, feders and the presence of the wheel responsible for the modulation and the pitch wheel;
4. It is not recommended to take a keyboard with joysticks instead of wheels, those who have been making music for a long time say that it is inconvenient to work with them (but everything is individual);
5. When buying, special attention should be paid to the sensitivity of the device - this affects the sound quality;
6. Remember that the pedals can be built-in or you have to buy them separately.

Thus, the market offers a huge number of MIDI keyboards. In addition, now many online stores offer discounts for their purchase, so we advise you to look at the ratings again and choose an assistant in creating music for yourself.