It’s no secret that modern MIDI controllers are more than devices for creating music. They’ve become full-fledged assistants for both beginners and professional musicians. But sometimes it’s a difficult task to pick up a certain device especially if you’ve not worked with MIDI controllers before. 

If it’s about you, do not worry since after reading this article you’ll get closer to making a choice and deciding on a model that will satisfy your needs.

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII red

The current model combines a compact size (317 mm x 181 mm x 44 mm) with a low weight (0.75 kg) and is aimed more at novice musicians.

Technical characteristics:

  • 25 velocity-sensitive keys;
  • 8 MPC pads with the ability to program drums, repeat notes, control a virtual instrument
  • 8 repetitive encoders;
  • buttons for switching octaves;
  • Tap-Tempo button to adjust the tempo;
  • 8 knobs for mixing and setting up plugins;
  • arpeggiator joystick with adaptable operating modes, resolution, and range.

What this model is lack of:

  • functions of changing the pitch and modulation;
  • keyboard aftertouch sensitivity;
  • hammer action;
  • MIDI interface.

Power is supplied via the USB cable. To get started, you do not need to install drivers as the device comes with all the necessary software. The device is compatible with PC, Mac, and iPad (in case of using Camera Connection Kit).

Unlike other portable devices from this niche, Akai Mini has large, comfortable keys with smooth pressing and without a typical click. In general, the design of the tool is minimalistic since the manufacturer gives priority to functionality.

Novation Launchkey Mini MkII

Novation Launchkey Mini MkII

This MIDI keyboard is the most compact of all Novation’s controllers: its dimensions are 32.5 mm x 17.5 mm x 4.3 mm and its weight is about 0.675 g. At the same time, it’s a powerful device that allows you to create, record, and play music tracks both in the studio or during live performance.

Technical characteristics:

  • 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys;
  • 16 pads with LED backlight and sensitivity to the force and velocity of pressing;
  • 8 assignable knobs;
  • the octave change option;
  • buttons for navigation and track switching;
  • the ability to work on PS and Mac;
  • 1 gigabyte of samples from Loopmasters.

What this model is lack of:

  • hammer action and display;
  • preset function and keyboard aftertouch;
  • pitch and modulation controller;
  • pedal input;
  • MIDI interface.

The device is powered via a micro USB cable, so if you want to connect an iPad, you’ll need an adapter.

The controller comes with pre-installed software (Ableton Live Lite 9, V Station, etc.), so there is no need to search for drivers.

Joyst JV-1 joystick MIDI controller

Joyst JV-1 joystick MIDI controller

This is not the smallest controller: its dimensions are 322 mm x 232 mm x 35 mm, and its weight is about 1 kilogram.

A distinctive feature of this device is an analog control mechanism that is implemented only through joysticks.

Technical characteristics:

  • 30 velocity-sensitive joysticks with after-touch option to provide full pitch blending;
  • the hexagonal and easy-to-remember arrangement of notes;
  • the same shape of all chords;
  • pitch-blending of individual notes due to MIDI Polyphonic Expression controller;
  • the ability to switch between octaves (7 octaves in total);
  • 7 playing modes.

What this model is lack of:

  • display;
  • hammer action;
  • pedal input;
  • preset software.

The device can be connected to a PC, synthesizer, or any mobile device with USB On-The-Go and doesn’t need an external power supply.