AKAI MPK MINI MK3 VS NOVATION LAUNCHKEY MINI COMPARISON | Which is better?

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Highly demanded comparison between two very awesome mini MIDI keyboards, the Akai MPK Mini Mk3 and the Novation Launchkey Mini Mk3. In this video we compare the keys, pads, knobs, and overall features of the keyboards :)
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Intro 0:00 - 1:28
Keybed 1:28 - 2:47
Size & Build Quality 2:47 - 4:16
Pitch Bend & Modulation 4:16 - 6:56
Knobs 6:56 - 8:39
Arpeggiator 8:39 - 12:21
MIDI Out 12:21 - 13:40
A New Skill 13:40 - 15:41
Pads 15:41 - 19:55
Software Workflow Functionality 19:55 - 25:15
Bundled Software 25:15 - 26:05
Final Thoughts 26:05 - 26:51
Outro 26:51 - 28:00
This video was sponsored by Skillshare
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[@Taetro]

Get your Skillshare! The first 1000 people who click the link will get 2 free months of Skillshare Premium: skl.sh/taetro0820 Also a couple things I glazed over that I may go deeper into in the future: -Launchkey has a FIXED CHORD mode, allowing for 1 finger playing of full chords -MPK Mini's Pitch Bend/Mod may perform better depending on what Program you have selected. Let me know if you have more questions following this video :)

[@daniyalrahman8046]

>yyy

[@uzzwalbain8337]

Would you mind to make review on Alesis midi keyboards (namely Alesis V25 and v49)? Your highness is strongly appreciated!

[@nunyabidness1852]

Not saying you're doing this, but I've noticed that many reviewers seem somewhat bias against the Akai. It makes me wonder if the popularity of the Akai factors into that. I get it, it's always doper to have the less known item, especially if it is comparable or superior to the popular one. But, I don't want the cooler product, I want the better product. I would liken this situation to Bose. Audiophiles loathe Bose, they laugh at their product line and they make fun of their users. They claim the sound is boring, that it lacks personality. I was once told that Bose is too consistent. Ummm, what? But, in reality, they only dislike it because it's well-known. So, they will opt for more obscure options. I've played music my whole life, been around a lot of gear and other shit. Bose is a phenomenal brand. It is consistent, but I think it is robust. I get great bass from my Bose products. The highs are above average, the mids are perfect. The best feature?? DURABILITY. Anyway, do you think maybe you or others approach the Akai in the same way that audiophiles approach Bose Speakers? I love your vids, I'm a sub. Thank you.

[@Michael_Lak]

First time viewer. What a smooth operator. Great relaxed, informed vibe.

[@Taetro]

thank you Michael :)

[@kimmiesrhythms]

wonderful for doing a comprehensive review. this will help so many on the fence with purchases.

[@mert_mashel]

I LOVE how you also tell us about the flaws that you dislike about each of these. Many channels will just sugarcoat their reviews making it very hard to get an honest opinion on them. Thumbs up!

[@LexAaeto]

Went from using the Akai mini to the Launchkey after I dropped my device on the floor. Couldn’t be happier with the change. The modulator is so much more practical on the Launchkey compared to the joystick of the Akai.

[@andreacorrado]

i experienced the same thing :)

[@TechReflex]

How much of a difference is there in the keybed? And are you missing the larger pads on the AKAI?

[@BearSavageMusic]

I just seriously have to say that thank you for teaching me today and many other days! always great detail!

[@abdulillo]

I have been playing piano and guitar for many years but never into music recording or production. I just discovered your channel, motivated me to get the mpk mini and your videos are incredibly helpful besides the chill vibes you give during them makes it a very smooth experience to watch them and keep watching. Thank you!! please keep making this kind of content :D

[@JSpycer]

Happy this video came out! Glad I took the Launchkey at the end..you for sure were a big influence..maybe you could make some tutorials on how to make those dope stickers fit perfectly on your controllers hahah

[@faithalityblog]

I think the sensitivity in the drum pads will depend on your style of music as well. Electronic music uses very loud and consistent beats, but if you play cinematic or orchestral percussion, every level of sensitivity counts because you want to have more control over the intensity (specially for risers and build ups).

[@Taetro]

true

[@mozzanth]

Glad I found your channel! I definitely like the stand-alone feature of the launchkey mini MK3. Thank you for this video Taetro!

[@Hyper_V]

This is a very comprehensive comparison! Like you said in another video, it doesn't really matter what the tool is, as long as you are using it to make tunes... but both of these controllers are pretty amazing anyways. I have the Launchkey Mini - but I think i would have been pretty happy with the MPK Mini also really. (launchkey mini though is really made for Ableton live, which is my DAW so that's really why I got that)

[@krazywabbit]

Thank you for this and all your videos. I am an amateur dude just having fun and working to make my own music for my YT vids. I have an old Yamaha PSR E363 that was not cutting it as a MIDI. Your video of going to the cabin and showing what was in your bag and pulling out the Launchkey MINI along with this showing it has ARP, sold me. I use Garageband along with the iPad for mobile and needed a portable keyboard player. I'm considering using to MacBook Air and maybe down the road, Ableton might pop off. But for now being an amateur, GB works for me. Really appreciate a theme in your videos. What works for you. Launchkey Mini will be the one for me. Also, not having the risk of the joystick breaking in the bag was a factor. Keep up the great work and be safe!

[@MrAvaraa]

Loved it, thanks! Very smooth and well spoken and shown, gj!

[@LaughterOnWater]

Thanks for this comparison! The difference for me is the pad sensitivity. Stay safe out there!

[@porterman69]

Yo!! I am Beyond amped that I just got 2 months of skillshare Premium... Taetro, many thanks my man.!!!! You have been beyond helpful on my musical journey in 2020!!!! Quarantine be DAMNED. You ROCK HOME BOY!!

[@ByForschle]

thx a LOT for this video and for the helpful comments down here. helped me a lot with my decision

[@Drunk_Bishop]

This video helped me make my choice. Youve got really simple, informative content and you get straight to the point without trailing off. Hope you keep making videos on this stuff. Theres a lot of new diy people like me who could learn from these videos.

[@vitaag]

Which one did you get?

[@Drunk_Bishop]

@@vitaag wow ten months ago! I ended up purchasing the Launchkey which really helped me out. I am currently using the Maschine mk3. Never thought I’d get this far. Thank you Taetro.

[@vitaag]

@@Drunk_Bishop Awesome! Thanks a lot! I got myself the Launchkey too.

[@Drunk_Bishop]

@@vitaag great choice! 11 months later and I still have it :)

[@abramjones1649]

That was the smoothest transition into an ad I've ever seen

[@jaimetrevino4650]

Very smooth, chill, informative review. Loved it. I guess it’s settled for me: I’m getting the Launchkey. Thanks!

[@snjv_official]

YOOO! This was exactly what i needed ! Thanks for the vid man ! Love from NEPAL !

[@Taetro]

perfect. much love bro

[@Badboy-ei1ct]

kun chai kineu ta solti?

[@snjv_official]

@@Badboy-ei1ct ill be buying arturai ko 49keys wala not the mini ones !

[@rodneyhanssen2641]

Great video dude. thanks, I got to the "joystick" part of the review and already decided it for me!

[@shannonia81]

What a great review. You've never hidden the fact that you're pro-launchkey, but you very fairly give the mpk its props with sincere reasoning behind them 👍 Can you tell me the instrument you were using to demonstrate? It was a lovely sound!

[@leestevenson1236]

What a brilliant teacher, cheers dude.

[@farealjune6933]

I actually just purchased this same launchkey a couple days ago to try out a new midi prior to me even looking at any videos. Part of me making that purchase was because I experienced issues with the Akai Mini Mpk2 in the past as well as I was familiar with an older model launchkey that I used in school that I thoroughly enjoyed and got accustomed to using with both Logic and Ableton. Although I am not an Ableton user (only worked with it in school), seeing this video after my purchase gives me a lot on confidence in my choice of the Launchkey. Preciate it Taetro! Thank you for thoroughly comparing the two. 🙏🏾🫡

[@sarys73]

This is a great vid. I use Ableton but I still couldn't decide on Arturia Keylab Essential, Launchkey, or Oxygen Pro. I've wanted the essential for a while, but I've see a few people who've said the keys die after about a year and half. Think I'm gonna go with Launchkey. Thanks

[@LARDinhoFC]

Awesome review, thank you so much for your great work!

[@Jacob-df8tf]

taetro i love how you have stickers on launchkey mini it's sooooo cool.

[@Taetro]

:) thanks Jakob

[@chloelin7459]

Love the vibe of your videos, subscribed after watching for the first time.

[@Taetro]

thank you Chloe!

[@Bucarmiano]

First time here, just loved your content! That's exactly what I was looking for! Tk u so much!

[@Taetro]

thank you!! Welcome to the party...stop by a live stream some time! Live every monday :)

[@cartdatomato1832]

Nice vid always love your comparisons👍🏻

[@leonardomcpugo]

Thanks, I want to get into my first MIDI keyboard and this helped me to decide for grabbing the Novation.

[@austinnie412]

the time stamps are super helpful thanks man

[@starkeye]

Was buying an MPK Mini on aesthetics as I liked the all black one, but functionality on the novation launchkey takes it. Thanks for this

[@riturajkumar5598]

Thanks man! Was waiting for this so much!

[@Taetro]

hope you enjoy!

[@riturajkumar5598]

@@Taetro yes I will! lemme buy it first! Most probably Launchkey is outta stocks!

[@evanwavebcn]

love this! thank you for the tips and for the skillshare! ace!

[@aaronaziz1711]

great video man, you helped me make my decision, i will go with the launchkey, thanks bro, take care!!!

[@JESSCfads]

Thanks so much for the review! Just got myself a Launchkey Mini MK3 :D

[@Badboy-ei1ct]

hows that?

[@jabberwock099]

@@Badboy-ei1ct I also bought it 3 days ago. It's fantastic.

[@Badboy-ei1ct]

@@jabberwock099 any review?

[@subjectifobjectif]

Great video thanks for your clear explanations

[@kevin00alexander]

This channel is very helpful, many thanks!

[@dpedrosoliano]

i just came here to personally thank you for this . cause of you i bought the launchkey mini. i spent 2 hours in the music store testing out. me and the seller actually watched your video till the end to make my final decision lol. thank you ! all the way from Malaysia

[@NFS-shade]

From Malaysia too. Maybe i'll get Novation also based on your comment.

[@dpedrosoliano]

@@NFS-shade you won't regret it bro haha

[@CreatorDrews]

Knew it man! I could learn from your comparison reviews :) went over to Spotify and 'liked' a few of your songs

[@jokerssnipe2776]

Thanks a lot! You made it wayy easyer to chose :)

[@judgeloc]

@Taetro thank you for this comparison/review. I feel a lil bit of buyers remorse after purchasing the MPK Mini MK3... My #1 issue is the need to use the mpk midi editor software for the unit to sync BPM with your DAW etc.. Its painful having to set it up every time before starting your session. I am not an Abelton user so I didn't go with the Launchkey Mini BUT the fact that it has 16 pads and transport controls on such a small unit along with introductory Abelton software may get me to at least try it out. I currently am using the Akai Fire controller alongside the mpk mk3 to have transport and pads and keys... ugh

[@nomique5676]

Awesome vid, thanks Taetro! :) I think it's time for me to get rid of my old Arturia minilab and go for the Launchkey.

[@calebfudrums]

great vid, seems like a great humble guy. subbed :)

[@Bearchette]

Love this man you inspired me greatly thank you so much PS love the name taetro for life

[@brianpolinio2394]

Thanks for the info about with the Loop! Novation Launchkey

[@paulandersbullecer3152]

Thanks for helping me make my choice of my first midi keyboards

[@bingzz1301]

great video as always

[@Mac.Eunique]

I believe you can change the velocity curve with the software. But I love that the Launchkeys pads have velocity sensitivity. Launchpads don’t so this accompanying a Launchpad helps to get you the deep pad banks as well as you velocity sensitivity.

[@milododds1]

Thank you for this very thorough product comparison, for me it comes down to whether I want to go with Ableton DAW software. I'm an eLearning content developer and instructional designer so I am looking at how I can make my own background music and sound effects. I have to be super careful with not breaking copyrights when it comes to music and graphics. Another reason I also created my own illustration software.

[@xosefc]

Is your own Illustration software better than Inkscape or Krita(both free and open source)? Regarding music, you should try LMMS or MPC Beats, from Akaipro site.

[@sushinskiy]

Thanks a lot for this review, very helpful before I'll buy a midi-keyboard. Before I thought to buy mpk mini, but in your review I see significant advantages in in launchkey and I think to buy this one.

[@l.j.2917]

Omg thank you so much! This was so helpful! Going with Launchkey!

[@Taetro]

You're so welcome!

[@AlecaMonteiro]

Me too. I just bought the Launchkey Mini Mk3 because of Taetro. 😊

[@l.j.2917]

@@AlecaMonteiro Awesome sauce! :)

[@williamblack2549]

Same

[@huinam8639]

Great vid as always!!! btw,are you familiar with the m-audio axiom air mini 32? It’s not quite as popular as the akai mpk but they have some similarities. Would really appreciate if you did a review/tutorial.

[@MrAnperm]

Great video, man.

[@lifeofyusufkerem]

Long awaited comparison is here!!

[@Taetro]

heck yeahhh

[@fostforward]

As a new creator this vids are very helpful man, thanks!

[@Taetro]

appreciate you! thanks for watching :)

[@pauldittus4587]

@Taetro Out of all the controllers you've used, what's your personal favorite small midi controller? I'd also be interested in vs Arturia Minilab mkii. Thanks!

[@islem2371]

Think you for this video That help so much

[@cdxtreme81]

Great video, not mention it's the 1st video if yours I've ran across. Quick Question....What mini keyboard should I go for that's good with Magix Music Maker and FL 20? I'd like to start creating my own personal content.

[@endikka7138]

Thanks a lot TAETRO, súper information and comparison ,definitely i prefer launchkey mini Mk3.... greetings from México city !

[@user-ik8vy1rg8f]

That segue into the title card / logo was great.

[@Taetro]

haha thank you!!

[@f3niks]

Great, great video ! You are a pro definitely. Thank you :)

[@scottholstein4187]

VERY helpful! Two questions. Does one model work better with Cakewalk by Bandlab? And does Launchkey have full velocity control like the Akai model has?

[@personameflawless6631]

Awesome video,thank you

[@breakbearrr]

Helpful video ty, sold me on the novation

[@Taetro]

🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻

[@samuelsanchez8212]

Good morning Boss good looking out with the lesson thanks stay blessed

[@divanmusic285]

finally... thx bro good vid

[@divanmusic285]

quick question... could you use novation "built in tempo" in another DAW such as fl studio 20?

[@Guitarist888]

Excellent review! Very informative! What mic are you using in this video?

[@mangeshhbarde]

Very informative!

[@mnordavind]

Although the minilab 2 is much older, a comparison of the keybeds of both would be good, good review as always.

[@premixmpk7070]

Sure

[@Taetro]

for sure

[@johnong2655]

minilab's new firmware really refresh the whole experience. Still relevant to this day

[@unkojll4404]

Can I have that akai mpk mini in the back

[@ruxiwang9571]

Minilab's endless encoder makes me crazy. They just don't work in ableton live.

[@aesthetic2088]

If been waiting for this video

[@Taetro]

let me know what you think!

[@oknotyet9630]

I have the Launchkey49 and I use Ableton live 10 the keyboard and that DAW are a unstoppable team I highly recommend The launchkey if you use Ableton still a great keyboard even if you don't

[@tylerparsons4681]

Thank you so much! Been waiting for this

[@Taetro]

happy to deliver. thanks Tyler :)

[@Xo1ot1]

Quality video, thanks.

[@zamageni]

I’m getting the Novation Launchkey Mk3 mai la because of the pads and the integration with ableton live

[@Alex-no3co]

Excellent review.

[@francistaylor1822]

Bought the launchkey, thanks for the comparison though couldnt use your link as im not in us

[@KingTut14]

hi Taetro. I am still torn between these 2. I was going to purchase Akai after you suggested in another video "if you are not decided on DAW, just get Akai MPK". But now after doing more research I am leaning towards LAUNCHKEY MINI, as I dont mind learning Ableton. One question. does Launchkey have the function of how u make drum pads have the same bass level no matter how hard you press it? You mentioned Akai has this in this video, but didnt say nothing about Launchkey. Thanks!

[@Gorlung]

Hi! Thank you for your valuable videos! I have a decent midi keyboard, but I need a controller to operate my live loopings in Ableton. Which one would you recommend in this case? Novation Launchpad Mini Mk3?

[@blackline67]

I got my Launchkey a month ago, and I absolutely love it. Was choosing between this two and i don’t regret my choice.

[@dooshhhhhh]

What DAW do you use?

[@blackline67]

@@dooshhhhhh Ableton

[@hemantakakati1103]

is there any way to turn off pads light ? I think it will hurt my eyes at night

[@AlecaMonteiro]

@@hemantakakati1103 don't think so 😕

[@hemantakakati1103]

@@AlecaMonteiro then im going with akai mpk or wait for arturia mini lab mk3

[@Yo-nq9ul]

16:18 he did it so smoothly like nothing🔥💯

[@OneStepToday]

Do u have a detailed tutorial of using Launchkey and Ableton for beginners?

[@marike1100]

16 pads, Midi out, and pitch/modulation strips -- the Launchkey Mini Mk3 for the win. But I like both.

[@krakapoww]

And chord / scale mode. And elastic arps. And better software integration. Easy choice

[@killerhit00]

Nice video, I just want something I can use for rock and metal drum beats in GarageBand, which one would you recommend ?

[@faruki6956]

If I don't have a preference for a DAW because I'm a beginner and I don't know which one I wanna use, how do I know which midi keyboard should I pick between the two of them? I want something beginner friendly (maybe they both are, IDK).

[@auddioduck6492]

Lol you are the man! Excellent job on this amazing comparison. Looking forward to mentor Monday brotherrr. Ps this is A Aye Ron 🤓

[@Taetro]

aayyyy :)

[@auddioduck6492]

Taetro I figured out how to get my Ableton audio routed have pure signal in my videos, my iPhone stand is coming when I get my novation. I was even considering getting a gimble for keynote but that can wait lol. Now I’m just nervous lol why am I nervous to do this thing 😓. Oh and I set up my Instagram finally. Jeez. Just venting, talk soon cousin.

[@troygroff4512]

Question for you. I grew up playing drums but now play guitar and sing. Is there a controller with a drum pad to use fingers or drumsticks that also has a keyboard? Thanks!

[@matward7174]

Great review. How about Touchable Pro app versus Launchkey mini mk3 please?

[@christianbenitez1481]

Hi! Did this new MPK improve the quality of the keys?

[@nicolas.pascal]

On both controllers, when you press the keys, does it trigger notes mid-way before hitting the bottom? It's an awful feeling when it does that. And are the keys velocity sensitive?

[@crextivve]

What plugin are you using when you used the pitchbend and madulatuon for both akai and lanchkey?

[@maorpaz]

very good video, thank you

[@augstn]

i rly wanna cry because i got the mk2 like right before the mk3 came out but great video as always t

[@camdentronnes3408]

For someone new to midi keyboards, which one would you recommend?

[@thaliakalli4207]

HELP!! I’m between this and the Alesis v25 what do you suggest? The alesis’ keys are normal sized and feel like a normal piano which is a big one for me. I don’t know other details tho and I need help what do you suggest and why?

[@blasborg]

I just received my Launchkey Mini MK3 and it's awesome BUT the pad LEDs are unbearably bright blue. Like, blindingly bright in low ligthing. Is there any way to dim the brightness? Otherwise, should I just go with the Arturia minilab mk2 or Akai MpkMini MK3 if I need pads that won't burn my retinas? :( thanks!!

[@jesperpedersen1357]

Great comparison! Can anyone tell me, does the launchkey pads have a tactile click to them?

[@louisgroff3332]

I assume ChromaPads is a chromatic scale (only moving in half-step increments, not major or minor scales)