Are Budget Midi Keyboards worth buying?
Buying a budget MIDI controller keyboard has its pros and cons, and it’s important to consider them before making a purchase decision.
One of the significant advantages of buying a budget MIDI controller keyboard is the affordability. These keyboards are generally priced lower than their high-end counterparts, making them more accessible for beginners or musicians on a tight budget. They provide a cost-effective way to incorporate MIDI functionality into your music production setup without breaking the bank. Budget controllers often offer a basic set of features that are still sufficient for most users’ needs, allowing you to get started with music production and explore MIDI capabilities without investing heavily.
Another benefit of budget MIDI controllers is their simplicity. They tend to have a straightforward design with essential controls, which can be an advantage for beginners who are just starting to learn about MIDI and music production. With fewer buttons, knobs, and pads to navigate, it can be easier to understand and get familiar with the controller’s functionalities. This simplicity can help streamline your workflow, allowing you to focus on creating music rather than getting lost in a sea of complex controls.
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider when purchasing a budget MIDI controller keyboard. One limitation is the reduced number of features compared to higher-end models. Budget controllers may not offer the same extensive range of controls, pads, or advanced functionality found in more expensive options. This can restrict your flexibility and creative possibilities, particularly if you require more advanced features for specific production techniques or prefer a more hands-on control experience.
Another potential con is the build quality and durability of budget controllers. Since these keyboards are often priced lower, manufacturers may cut costs on materials and construction, resulting in a less sturdy build. This could lead to issues such as keys that feel less responsive, buttons and knobs that are less durable, or a general lack of longevity. It’s important to read reviews and do thorough research to ensure that the budget controller you’re considering has a reputation for decent build quality and reliability.
In summary, buying a budget MIDI controller keyboard can be a practical choice for beginners or those on a tight budget. They offer an affordable entry point into the world of MIDI and music production, with simplified designs that can make it easier to get started. However, it’s essential to be aware of the potential limitations in terms of features and build quality. By considering your specific needs, researching different options, and reading user reviews, you can find a budget MIDI controller that strikes a good balance between functionality and affordability.
Below I have listed the best budget MIDI keyboards under $299.
Best Budget Midi Keyboards List
1. Arturia Keylab Essential MK3
The Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3 49-key Keyboard Controller is a versatile and feature-packed MIDI controller that combines a professional-grade keybed with comprehensive control options. Designed to offer a seamless integration with popular DAWs and virtual instruments, the KeyLab Essential Mk3 caters to the needs of both beginners and experienced musicians alike.
At its core, the KeyLab Essential Mk3 features a high-quality 49-note velocity-sensitive keybed with a smooth and responsive playing experience. The keys are designed to provide a balanced feel, allowing for expressive performances. Alongside the keybed, the controller also offers nine faders, nine rotary encoders, and 8 RGB backlit performance pads. These controls give you hands-on access to parameters, enabling you to shape your sound, control mix levels, and trigger samples or loops with ease.
One of the standout features of the KeyLab Essential Mk3 is its deep integration with a variety of DAWs and virtual instruments. Arturia has developed dedicated templates and mappings for popular software such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Studio One, ensuring a seamless workflow and eliminating the need for manual mapping. This integration allows you to control your DAW directly from the keyboard, giving you quick access to transport controls, track navigation, and instrument parameters.
Additionally, the KeyLab Essential Mk3 comes bundled with Arturia’s Analog Lab software. This software provides access to thousands of high-quality instrument sounds, including iconic synths, pianos, organs, and more. The KeyLab Essential Mk3’s controls are automatically mapped to Analog Lab, allowing you to dive into the vast sound palette and start creating music immediately.
Overall, the Arturia KeyLab Essential Mk3 49-key Keyboard Controller is a user-friendly MIDI controller suitable for both home studios and professional setups. With its responsive keybed, extensive control options, deep integration with popular software, and bundled Analog Lab software, it offers a comprehensive package for musicians and producers. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the world of music production or an experienced artist seeking a versatile controller, the KeyLab Essential Mk3 is worth considering.
Features & Specifications
- 9 rotary encoders and 9 faders can be completely customized and assigned for optimal use in your setup.
- The 8-pad beat pad features RGB backlighting as well as velocity/pressure sensitivity to expand compositional and performance possibilities.
- Chord and scale modes, as well as an arpeggiator, are new performance and composition features.
- Pitch and mod wheels are positioned above the lowest notes for a slim, ergonomic profile.
- Custom scripts are freely available for use with virtually any DAW of your choice.
- Premium software, including Analog Lab V and over 2,000 studio-grade presets, is included.
- USB-C connectivity manages full MIDI communication and bus power, allowing it to be used with almost any setup. USB-C connectivity and bus power included.
2. Novation Launchkey 49 MK3
The Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 49-key Keyboard Controller is a highly regarded MIDI controller that offers a wealth of features and seamless integration with popular DAWs, making it a go-to choice for musicians and producers. With its responsive keybed, versatile control options, and innovative performance features, the Launchkey 49 MK3 provides a comprehensive solution for creating music.
The keybed of the Launchkey 49 MK3 offers 49 velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for expressive playing and dynamic performances. The keys are designed to provide a comfortable and responsive feel, making it enjoyable to play for extended periods. Alongside the keybed, the controller features eight rotary knobs, nine faders, and 16 RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads. These controls offer extensive hands-on control over various parameters, including instrument parameters, mixer settings, and effects.
One of the standout features of the Launchkey 49 MK3 is its deep integration with Ableton Live. Novation has developed a close partnership with Ableton, resulting in a seamless and intuitive workflow. The controller features dedicated buttons for launching clips, controlling transport functions, and navigating tracks within Ableton Live. It also provides automatic mapping of its controls to Ableton Live’s parameters, making it effortless to control instruments and effects directly from the keyboard.
Beyond Ableton Live, the Launchkey 49 MK3 is compatible with other major DAWs and offers flexible MIDI mapping options. This allows you to easily integrate the controller into your existing setup and customize the control assignments to suit your workflow preferences. Whether you’re using Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, or other software, the Launchkey 49 MK3 provides a versatile control surface that adapts to your needs.
In addition to its DAW integration, the Launchkey 49 MK3 includes innovative performance features such as Scale and Chord modes. Scale mode helps you stay in key by automatically quantizing your playing to a selected scale, while Chord mode enables you to trigger chords with a single key press. These features are especially helpful for those who may not be proficient in playing traditional chords but still want to explore rich harmonic possibilities in their music.
In summary, the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 49-key Keyboard Controller is a highly capable MIDI controller suitable for musicians and producers of all levels. Its responsive keybed, extensive control options, deep integration with Ableton Live, and innovative performance features make it a powerful tool for creating music in a variety of genres and styles. Whether you’re performing live, recording in the studio, or producing tracks, the Launchkey 49 MK3 provides a user-friendly and feature-rich experience.
- Optimized for Ableton Live, with instant access to all necessary controls
- Automatically maps to most major DAW
- 49 velocity-sensitive synth-style keys
- Three chord modes (fixed, scale, and user) allow you to trigger chords with a single finger.
- Modulation and pitch bend wheels
- 9 x 45mm sliders and 8 rotary knobs
- Arp/scale/fixed chord buttons
- Scale modes transpose keys and pads to the selected scale’s notes.
- Easy-to-read 16 x 2 character screen
- 4 Custom Modes for creating your own control setups for any live performance or studio session
3. M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49
The M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 Keyboard Controller is a feature-packed MIDI controller designed to provide musicians and producers with a professional-grade playing and control experience. With its responsive keybed, extensive control options, and intuitive software integration, the Oxygen Pro 49 offers a versatile tool for music production.
The Oxygen Pro 49 features a premium-grade keybed with 49 velocity-sensitive keys. The keys provide a natural and responsive feel, allowing for expressive playing and dynamic performances. The inclusion of aftertouch adds an extra layer of expressiveness, enabling you to add modulation and control parameters with varying pressure on the keys. The keybed is designed to deliver a balanced and consistent playing experience, making it suitable for both piano-style playing and synth-based performances.
In terms of control options, the Oxygen Pro 49 offers nine assignable faders, eight assignable knobs, and 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads. These controls give you hands-on access to various parameters, including instrument parameters, mixer controls, and triggering of samples or loops. The pads are particularly useful for drum programming and triggering MIDI clips, while the faders and knobs allow for precise control over automation and mixing.
The Oxygen Pro 49 is designed to seamlessly integrate with popular DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and more. It comes bundled with M-Audio’s Auto-Mapping software, which automatically assigns the controls to the corresponding parameters in your DAW. This makes it effortless to control instruments, effects, and mix settings directly from the controller, reducing the need for manual mapping and allowing for a more efficient workflow.
Additionally, the Oxygen Pro 49 includes features such as Smart Chord mode and Smart Scale mode, which are helpful for beginners and those with limited music theory knowledge. Smart Chord mode enables you to play full chords with a single key, while Smart Scale mode ensures that you play in key by automatically correcting any off-key notes. These features open up creative possibilities and make it easier to explore harmonies and melodies, even if you’re not an experienced keyboard player.
Overall, the M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 Keyboard Controller is a professional-grade MIDI controller suitable for musicians and producers of different levels. Its responsive keybed, extensive control options, and intuitive software integration make it a valuable tool for music production, whether you’re recording, performing live, or composing. With its solid build quality and comprehensive feature set, the Oxygen Pro 49 offers a reliable and powerful solution for enhancing your creative workflow.
Features & Specifications
- 49 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch and zone assignment
- 9 faders for adjusting levels and fine-tuning your final mixes
- 8 assignable knobs and buttons for virtual instrument plug-in control
- Smart Chord mode allows you to play complex enharmonic or custom chord voicings.
- Arpeggiator with Type, Octave, Gate, and Swing controls.
- Includes MPC Beats and Ableton Live Lite
- Included virtual instrument plug-in bundle
4. Nektar Panorama T4 49-Key
The Nektar Panorama T4 49-Key is a versatile and feature-packed MIDI controller designed specifically for music production and performance. With its 49-key keyboard, it offers a perfect balance between portability and functionality, making it a popular choice among musicians, producers, and composers.
The T4 features a high-quality keyboard with aftertouch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience. Its 49 keys offer enough range for playing melodies, chords, and basslines, while still maintaining a compact form factor. The keys are also semi-weighted, giving them a natural feel and allowing for nuanced control over dynamics.
One of the standout features of the Nektar Panorama T4 is its deep integration with popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton Live, Cubase, Logic Pro, and Bitwig Studio. It comes with pre-mapped controls and dedicated buttons that provide direct access to various parameters within the DAW, including transport controls, mixer functions, instrument parameters, and more. This integration greatly enhances workflow efficiency, allowing users to focus on their creativity without constantly reaching for the computer mouse.
In addition to its seamless DAW integration, the Panorama T4 also boasts a range of assignable controls, including eight velocity-sensitive pads, eight encoders, nine faders, and transport buttons. These controls can be freely mapped to control various MIDI parameters, virtual instruments, and effects, offering endless possibilities for customization and personalized workflows. The T4 also features a clear and informative LED display, providing visual feedback on parameters and settings.
Overall, the Nektar Panorama T4 49-key MIDI controller is a versatile tool for music production and performance. With its intuitive integration with popular DAWs, responsive keyboard, and extensive control options, it empowers musicians to express their creativity and streamline their workflow, making it a valuable addition to any studio setup.
- Velocity and aftertouch sensitive
- The 1″ silk dome tweeter has a quick transient response for detailed high end and vocal clarity.
- Precise acoustic alignment results in exceptionally balanced sound across the entire frequency spectrum.
- Ultra-wide dispersion for improved stereo imaging and listening comfort.
- HF filter knob applies boost or cut to compensate for particularly dull or bright sounding rooms.
- 85 watts of bi-amplified Class A/B amplification
- Frequency response: 35 Hz – 20 kHz
5. Akai MPK225 25-Key
The Akai Professional MPK225 25-key Keyboard Controller is a compact and versatile MIDI controller that combines a responsive keybed with comprehensive control options, making it an ideal choice for musicians and producers seeking a portable and feature-packed solution. Despite its compact size, the MPK225 packs a punch with its extensive functionality and intuitive design.
The MPK225 features 25 velocity-sensitive keys that offer a responsive and expressive playing experience. The keys are designed to provide a natural feel, making it comfortable to play for extended periods. The velocity sensitivity allows for dynamic control over the sound, enabling you to add nuance and expressiveness to your performances. The compact size of the keyboard makes it a convenient option for musicians who prioritize portability without compromising on playability.
One of the standout features of the MPK225 is its comprehensive control section. It includes eight RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads, eight assignable knobs, four-way thumbstick for pitch and modulation control, and dedicated transport controls. These controls allow for precise adjustment of parameters, easy navigation, and control over your DAW and virtual instruments. The pads are particularly useful for triggering drum samples, launching clips, and programming MIDI sequences, while the knobs offer hands-on control over instrument parameters, effects, and mixer settings.
The MPK225 seamlessly integrates with popular DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools. Akai Professional provides dedicated software and presets that automatically map the controller’s controls to the corresponding functions in your DAW. This streamlines your workflow and eliminates the need for manual mapping, allowing you to focus on creating music rather than configuring controls.
Another notable feature of the MPK225 is its robust build quality. The controller is built to withstand the rigors of travel and live performances. The sturdy construction ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for both studio use and on-the-go setups. Additionally, the MPK225 is USB-powered, eliminating the need for an external power supply and further enhancing its portability.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, the MPK225 provides a feature-packed and portable controller that enables you to unleash your creativity.
Features & Specifications
- 25 semi-weighted, full-size keys with aftertouch
- Eight RGB-illuminated MPC pads (four banks each)
- Eight control knobs and four backlit buttons are included with 12 assignable Q-Link controllers.
- Arpeggiator and MPC Note Repeat for advanced rhythmic and melodic movement
- MPC Full Level, Tap Tempo, and Time Division assist with dynamics and tempo
- Controls for pitch bend, modulation, and octave for expressive recording and performance
- Production software package included: Ableton Live Lite and Pro MPC Essentials
- Virtual synths included: Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech and SONiVOX Twist 2.0
