TOP 6 MIDI KEYBOARDS in 2022

🔥 JUST RELEASED 2023 UPDATE • Top 6 NEW MIDI KEYBOAR...
1. Akai MPK Mini geni.us/6M2JNEM
2. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p
3. Arturia Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl
4. Nektar LX Mini geni.us/kBlWp
5. Launchkey Mini Mk3 geni.us/lL0Yhsy
6. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI
7. Bonus Nektar Impact LX25+ geni.us/AKAf
8. Bonus Worlde Tuna Mini (Amazon paid link) geni.us/ZhjA
Bonus MidiPlus MiniControl (Amazon paid link) geni.us/BSpXL
I compare six of the best midi keyboards for $120 and help you decide which one is best for you. If you are looking to buy a midi keyboard, you need to watch this video. This video is especially helpful if you are new to music production. Depending on your needs, I recommend which of these midi keyboards is right for you. The six keyboards I’m comparing here are the M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini, the Nektar Impact LX Mini, Native Instruments M32, Arturia Minilab Mkii, Akai MPK Mini MK3 and the Novation Launchkey Mini MK3. All these keyboards have 25 keys (except for the M32 and Oxygen Pro Mini which have 32) and are capable of playing sounds through software and your DAW, and also controlling the sounds you make. I will cover features, feel, portability, build quality, and included software. These are midi controller keyboards, so they don’t make sounds on their own, they need software which is included to produce sounds. All keyboards are around $120. These midi controller keyboards work with DAWs including Ableton Live, Logic, and many others.
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#MIDIKeyboards #MIDIController #SanjayC
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Where I get my sounds - geni.us/aY6hdKk
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The best headphones EVER - geni.us/KV65VR
My main audio interface - geni.us/pVIcY1
Excellent audio interface for starter geni.us/iOmP
Amazing studio monitors for the price - geni.us/t8gZ
My main keyboard - geni.us/rd5k
The most complete virtual instrument collection - bit.ly/3Bu8JTX
Drum pads with the best sensitivity - geni.us/eKPXTA
The best DAW ever - geni.us/5oLM
Great microphone for vocals - geni.us/OlJW
Subwoofer that did the job - geni.us/eEAGqai
My preferred mini keyboard - geni.us/qjYl

[@SanjayC]

⬇ Links to all keyboards here ⬇ 1. Akai MPK Mini geni.us/6M2JNEM 2. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini geni.us/cdGB7p 3. Arturia Minilab 3 geni.us/qjYl 4. Nektar LX Mini geni.us/kBlWp 5. Launchkey Mini Mk3 geni.us/lL0Yhsy 6. Native Instruments M32 geni.us/r1YI 7. Bonus Nektar Impact LX25+ geni.us/AKAf 8. Bonus Worlde Tuna Mini (Amazon paid link) geni.us/ZhjA Bonus MidiPlus MiniControl (Amazon paid link) geni.us/BSpXL

[@frpaulgeorge1320]

Hello sir, Can we connect midi keyboard to a Yamaha digital keyboard like pSR S775 or Sx series? If Yes please let me know or make a vedio how to do it....Please be kind to reply?

[@Brintofly]

I think among these M-audio Oxygen Pro Mini is the best for what it offers in the price range. It has a little bit of everything you need.

[@mystikrebel1089]

Even if I have no money left I still have to come and check what bargins Sanjay has dug up lol

[@SanjayC]

Love that...thanks for always supporting!

[@edrumsense]

Ever!

[@8DMUSICKANNADA]

I'm selling my nektar impact+ 25 keys let me know if you're interested to buy

[@dennis5806]

Beside the topic of the video, your content is really well done 👌👌From the background eye candies to the color changes, the professionalism, and most importantly the extra information and details you provide throughout the video are really nice. Thanks for the help

[@ob1quixote]

I think that chord, arpeggiator, and other features like that are only important if you're going to control hardware synths with a mini-keyboard. If you're just using it to play into the box, you don't really need those things. Conversely, transport controls aren't as important on a mini-keyboard you're using to control hardware. All that being said, I went out of my way to get an old Arturia Keylab 25 and I'm so glad I did.

[@SanjayC]

Wow...the old school Keylab 25 - that's pretty cool

[@futur_sunds]

I will always recommend Arturia. You can just feel and hear the effort put into there products.

[@SanjayC]

Yeah, I agree with that - Native Instruments as well, in my opinion

[@rchrd3353]

weird. every arturia hardware i've had has been crap build quality or firmware issues/bugs. microfreak, microbrute, minibrute, drumbrute impact.. all issues. support never helped either..and while multiple firmwares have been put out, none of them fix the bugs that i report. tried the keystep as well and thought the keybed was pretty overrated and mediocre at best (too short and stiff) ..and the keystep pro has tons of issues as well. they're one of the top brands i avoid now tbh but ymmv.

[@ramspencer5492]

Both Arturia and NI are selling an experience for their software.... They both are offering the least complete packages overall though .. As far as comprehensive features..... And will probably continue to be the slowest to update and refresh..... don't ever expect to see NI put drum pads on their keyboards.... Which are definitely missed, IMO.

[@ramspencer5492]

@Simple Minds it's been forever in tech years since they've done a refresh.... I'd just do the oxygen pro if I were buying a portable mini keyboard today. As dumb at it is that they don't have endless encoders...

[@manuele.itriagom.728]

I have a Minilab II and love it but my PC doesn't recognize it anymore. It works on my wife's Mac so I don't understand what the hell is going on and can't find any fixes online.

[@ramsey4630]

oxygen pro mini is by far the best .the vst control is very deep . the thing is learning the editor. almost everything on this machine except 2 buttons is customizable. with multiple banks.

[@richrich1k]

Dude, you just answered all my questions. THANK YOU. I think OXYGEN PRO MINI is the best of this list, because of al the good futures it has and dude’s passion to talk about say it all.

[@margaretchristo6859]

I was waiting for this video to drop! If you posted videos everyday, I’d watch! It would put me in the right frame of mind for the day! Thank you SanjayC.

[@SanjayC]

Wow...thank you so much!!

[@futur_sunds]

I second that.

[@peterseville]

I fourth that.

[@Racca420]

You sold me on the M-Audio Oxygen ProMini when you compared it to the Akai MPK a few months ago and I am very happy with my investment! It even came with free VSTi plugins like Hybrid, Velvet and MiniGrand. 🎹

[@SanjayC]

So glad you're happy with the Oxygen Pro

[@KarenGalstyan]

I wish there was a market for premium mini keyboards. As somebody who’s always on the road it would be great to have something durable + with better keybed than the cheaper keyboards. The closest thing I found to that were the lumi/seaboard block, but you cant get them these days.

[@JeffyG]

Very true. Since most of these are ‘budget’ oriented, to attract beginners, nobody combines all the features into a premium mini keyboard. I’ve had an m-audio mini, an XKey 37, and now a Novation LaunchKey Mini for my mobile rig. The market for a premium mini/portable must be smaller than the beginner audience AND if a premium mini was $200, it wouldn’t compete with the $100 most beginners are willing to invest.

[@dasnohvit]

The Minilab feels sturdy, probably the sturdiest of all the ones in the video. Since it has the best keybed, it's probably que best choice for you.

[@KarenGalstyan]

@@JeffyG yeah the market is smaller but Im pretty sure there is a sizable niche of amateurs willing to pay over 200$ for a decent mini midi keyboard without all the fancy features. I mean look into the whole traveler guitar market ( maybe not directly comparable) I have the launchkey mini as well, but every-time I throw it in my backpack I have a feeling it would break any moment now. If they made it with more durable materials + have endless encoders, people would still love it imho even if they charged 100 bucks extra

[@DerekPower]

I believe the SEABOARDS will return sometime next year. I have three LUMIs myself and I love its inherent expressive capabilities, specifically MPE.

[@SanjayC]

Totally agree, Karen! I would totally get one!

[@Duvoncho]

Love my Minilab MkII. No complaints at all. Perhaps if I was using it on the road I'd have a different opinion but for home use it does everything I want and the keys feel incredible for this price range.

[@SanjayC]

Good to hear that

[@silentkayak]

I have an older version of the Akai MPK mini than the model you reviewed. It works well for me as an amateur/hobbyist electronic musician. But the two things I don't like about it is the joystick, which always returns to center, and the keyboard contacts. Since I moved to the tropics, I have to disassemble it about every six months and clean the contacts so that every key on the keyboard works. But hey, I've had it for six years and it still works so I can't complain.

[@SanjayC]

If you can still make music with it...its all good. Thanks for sharing your experience, Jay!

[@christophrau8725]

Hello, many thank your really detailed reports here. What I may add: I just got the AKAI MPK mini mk3 for testing. A big drawback are actually the keys with their "L-shape". If you press a key with your thumb and then come slightly under the next higher key, you get stuck. That doesn't work at all. That criterium that has finished the AKAI for me. And as you say, if you want to create full tones it's not that easy for fingers. Playing on my mechanical piano is easier. So one with the shape of piano keys! Keep up the good work with your reviews and reports - thank you!

[@cnotebeats8061]

I’ve owned almost all of them and what I can tell anyone that’s reading this is that its important to note what vsts you’re going to be using. You don’t want to be scrolling endlessly through sounds to finally find the right patch and then start playing. That’s why I’d recommend the NI Komplete series. You can filter right on the keyboard and scroll through with the feel and it works really great as you’re creating . In the studio I have the s series which is bomb but for on the road or at home the m32 does the job. The Arturia is also really good bc of the software it comes with but breaks really fast owned two of them in less than a year.

[@arnavverma4507]

does these native instruments keyboards work with 3rd party plugin like nexus, omnisphere to scroll endlessly through sounds?

[@Sound5hark]

thanks for the input, this comment really helped me pinpoint what i was looking for

[@cnotebeats8061]

@@arnavverma4507 yes, but it does with er very midi controller. Cmd + m or ctrl + m

[@cnotebeats8061]

@@Sound5hark glad I could help

[@aldreimartin2829]

The oxygen pro mini is so beautiful and nice to use😍

[@SatyamKhare_Official]

Your comparison videos always give a better clarity in terms of deciding the product for all the aspects. I always watch your recommendations before investing on anything ❤️

[@hectornajerahoz]

Man, I tried an Arturia Mini once and the quality is undeniable, amazing. Besides that in black it looks 🔥

[@CristobalCFC]

Got the M-Audio Oxygen Pro (32 keys) a couple of months ago. I love it.

[@SanjayC]

Glad to hear that! What DAW are you using it with?

[@_mickmccarthy]

While the Akai MPK Mini doesn't officially have transport controls, I've been able to map MIDI CC messages from the drum pads to get trigger FL Studio's play, stop, record (and I think loop) functions. Not ideal, but it works!

[@louisik1]

Not only that, but it has 8 'programs' that are easy to switch between, so you can set up different MIDI CC programs for different parts of your workflow. If you're recording, you can use your transport program, if you're mixing you can use the pads for mute/solo and the knobs for mix level, if you're sound surfing you can use your vst tweaking program, etc. It has software that makes programming easy.

[@iainmcguire7190]

@@louisik1 The software to program the pads is actually pretty clunky and old fashioned. And switching between programs to gain access to transport controls, then trying to switch back, to use the pads for drums gets in the way. I've recently got a launchkey mini to replace an MPK mini, and can't believe how much more fun it is to use in the real world. The joystick is also practically unusable on the mpk mini

[@louisik1]

@@iainmcguire7190 Mm.. I'd say the software looks a bit unrefined when it comes to design, but doesn't feel any more arcane than programming other synths/controllers. I've upgraded to an APC40 MK2 so yeah, I appreciate the additional functionality. But for some folks who might be on a very tight budget, the MPK mins can be stretched to do more.

[@joshuachinedumusic]

Arturia boards are the best. I have your review video of the keylab MK II saved on my phone. I play keys. Keep up the good work Mr. Sanjay C. Your videos really put me through what devices do what in the studio and what free plugins to you as I started production this year. Thank you again. 💪

[@Victor-lo6dg]

I bought the novation lanchkey mini mk3 previously because it was the only keyboard with the midi out at that time. It's so convenient when you use Ableton. After loading the instruments that I want , I can just focus on the keyboard without looking at the screen. If I get to choose , I would go for the oxygen pro mini now because of its midi out and additional faders. I'm obsessed with its faders😀

[@reillyspitzfaden]

I have the minilab and in addition to what you mentioned, I really like the pushbuttons on encoders 1 and 9, and the wider type of midi messages you can customize on the knobs compared to the launchkey (the other one on this list I’ve tried). I never use features like arpeggiator or note repeat on the keyboard anyway; I just do them in logic

[@W6FOG]

Ruby

[@BJ-fj6jw]

Sanjay, you must know, 10 years or 1 minute ago, your demos inspire and educate me. Pronams to your labor of love. Thank you!

[@SoulSheIS]

I really appreciate having an extra octave on a mini midi keyboard-- would love to see 32-Keys with transport control, pads, and knobs. The LX Mini looks promising.

[@prodigygaming5102]

I’m looking for a keyboard now. Was it all it’s cracked up to be?

[@restlesswanderer]

Thanks for this review - and other comparisons. As an absolute beginner I've decided to go with Oxygen, for extra keys and a lot of features. Swayed my mind from Akai. Great material. Very thoughtful, no fixed opinions. Love your work, thank you.

[@pedrwm]

Do you still use it? How do you like it so far?

[@Justthegoodstuff-gh2xx]

How is it going?

[@JeffyG]

No vendor has is all. Transport controls, 32 keys, mod & pitch wheels, DAW integration, device level control, endless encoders, etc. It seems to depend on your DAW preference. For Ableton, Novation LaunchKey Mini is the best with 16 pads. For Logic, a tie between M-Audio Oxygen and Novation LaunchKey which offer the best integration and smart control supports. Then, software bundles come into play: if you love NI Komplete 13, the NI M32 offers integration but no pads. If you love Arturia V Collection bundle, the Arturia Mini has the best integration. Let’s face it, each vendor sell these mini keyboards as an entry point with software, hoping you’ll upgrade to full keyboards and full software suites, in the future.

[@SanjayC]

Great points, Jeffy

[@cameronpritchard626]

Ayyye new Sanjay vid!!! Love to see it after an exam day 🙌🙌

[@SanjayC]

Hey Cameron! Hope you enjoyed the video!

[@cameronpritchard626]

@@SanjayC sure did 🔥🔥🙌

[@StefanDabija]

Hey Sanjay! I am really glad to have discovered your channel. I am currently studying music theory since I want to further develop my passion for music and to start coming with some ideas of my own. I am conflicted between the Oxygen Pro Mini and the Arturia Minilab. I haven't study piano so this mini keyboard will also double as my first learning keyboard. Judging solely on the sheet number of functions and on the fact that it offers some additional keys, I guess that the Oxygen Pro Mini would be the best choice, but Arturia Minilab's build quality and key feel seems to be on a different level. I would also consider the Oxygen Pro 25, but I might be overfocusing on the key build quality. 😅 Happy New Year btw!

[@alialhadithy6590]

Did you end up getting any? I am exactly in your position and hesitant .

[@aldreimartin4875]

Amazing comparison, the oxygen pro mini is the most astounding of them all.

[@SanjayC]

Thanks!

[@mrz80]

@@SanjayC I'm stuck in a three-way dither now between the Oxy Pro mini, the Launchkey Mini, and the Nektar Mini. The M-Audio looks like it's the coolest feature set, but the other two are considerably smaller, which has to factor in given how much junk I already lug around in the backpack.

[@FlorisvanEck]

@@mrz80 M-Audio has bad quality control tons of stories of them breaking down after months, I think the Order is Arturia/Native Instruments, then Novation, then the rest in terms of quality of the brand/hardware.

[@mrz80]

@@FlorisvanEck I ended up copping a sweet deal on a used MAudio Axiom Air 32 Mini. It's got enough controls for basic VST tweaking, half decent drum pads, and 32 keys. And in a nice show of serendipity, it just fits in the padded inside pocket in my backpack. I'm plenty happy with it.

[@S9MusicProd]

Great comparison, and I really think Alesis V25 should have been included in this. Undoubtedly the Best keybed (semi weighted) , same price point.

[@davidriha]

Totally agree, the V25 is STILL one of the top midi keyboards in 2022

[@henrikgustav2294]

How’s the quality?

[@iluvuvibez6644]

It comes with everythujg?

[@Keziapurrs]

Awesome review! I own the Akai MPK Mini Mk3, the M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini and the Aurturia Minilab. I love them all for different reasons. But i find myself using my Oxygen Pro Mini the most b/c of the numerous features.

[@SanjayC]

Hi Lisa...wow you've got a great collection of keyboards - you need to add the M32 next - it will give you something completely different.

[@cambopup777]

Hi Lisa, I’m considering of getting M-Audio Oxygen Pro mini as I really like all the features it comes with, but I heard a lot of people mentioned about the unreliability of its quality. How’s your experience with it so far?

[@brendanhoffmann8402]

I just got the Novation Launchkey mini mk 3. It's my first control surface. I'm not very good at keyboards but it's going to be great to use with Logic. I didn't realise Novation was an arm of Focusrite... Now I have two things from that company

[@bobbda]

Sanjay, please do you have any video on fully standalone DAWless music production devices where one can create music (even on a couch!) without needing to turn on a computer, load up a DAW, stare at a screen and complex DAW interfaces, and fumble with a mouse? I am sure you agree that this can be really tiring, so much less hands on, put off (busy or new) people right away, and is so impeding to just getting right into music creation and workflow. Please sir, have you looked at completely standalone devices like the MPC One, MC-707, MPC Live 2, Maschine Plus, and MPC X? Your comments and recommendations on these DAWless devices will be really insightful and helpful for both beginners and pros who find computer DAWs so impeding to get straight into the workflow and maintain creativity. And especially for beginners who don't know which device (MPC or Maschine or Roland) provides the easiest workflow methods and interfaces to construct songs using a truly standalone device, your comments on these devices will be extremely helpful. Thank you so much in advance sir.

[@nvrmor023]

Sounds like you need a Synthstrom Deluge

[@SanjayC]

I have the Maschine Plus and I don't use it as much as a computer. The UI on a computer is just so much easier to navigate. But if you dedicate time to learning a device like MPC One or Maschine Plus, you could learn how to quickly navigate and make incredible music with it. My advice is to select the hardware and dedicate time to it.

[@rahuldhiman434]

These black and white keys just hypnotize me😍

[@SanjayC]

Yeah, they look sooo good

[@sodapopizze.eljoven]

i need to rewatch this whole video again. i don’t know which one to choose.

[@DieselWeazel]

Same thought.

[@Krunal-Music]

Oxygen Pro Mini is in my bucket list ✨👊 Thanks for this awesome video 👊✨🌟

[@SanjayC]

You're very welcome! You'll enjoy the Oxygen Pro

[@karlsjostedt8415]

Aftertouch is an absolute must! No mention of the most important feature of difference!

[@BLUEGOBEATS]

I see you changing background items for different keyboards. The extra effort you put into these videos definitely helps make it aesthetically pleasing. Thank you.

[@dibyajyotiamarsagar8092]

Thanks for the video. You are helping us a lot by doing these videos taking time to using these and then showing us a good comparison.

[@justinbrotman2871]

Thanks for this video! I just bought the Nektar Impact LX Mini and I'm not a pro keyboard player so it's definitely a learning curve for me. So far it is a great upgrade for me, playability, and it's compatibility with multiple DAWs will more than suit my needs at this time. I appreciate your short coverage of this keyboard because I have learned a couple of things about it quickly by watching. When I expand out and get another controller keyboard I'll definitely hit up this channel while doing my research. Thanks!

[@svsmesho96]

I am thinking of LX 25. Is it a good one. How is your experience ? Please let me know. 😊🙏

[@shannonwilliams6040]

Did the pitch bend go out on you yet?

[@justinbrotman2871]

@@svsmesho96 it has been a solid controller. I have had zero issues with it.

[@chantduplantier9871]

Great info! Thanks! I have the M32 and love it. It’s just a little big for throwing in a backpack when I’m traveling and have to bring my computer(s) as well. Wish they made an M25. That would be perfect, but, the control over the NI and NKS universe makes it worth the effort since I’m all in with NI. Thanks again! Great job as always!

[@SanjayC]

Thanks so much, Chant! Yeah, the M32 is so good if you like using Komplete Kontrol.

[@techiestuffs3041]

I'm planning to get Ni M32 is it worth buying ??? The keys the features n all Help

[@mickehog76]

I am happy with my akai mpk mini mk3. Which is a great complement to my bigger Yamaha keyboard. I am sure you will be happy with no matter what you buy or get as a Christmas gift.

[@SanjayC]

Love that! And Merry Christmas!

[@mickehog76]

@@SanjayC Merry Christmas to you too! 🎅

[@elliottrickert2879]

I’ve been waiting for this!!!!

[@SanjayC]

Its here!

[@rockstarjoe]

I have the M32 and I kind of hate it. The velocity tracking is terrible and I have to absolutely hammer the keys to get a decent response out of it. And of course NI does not include any way to adjust the velocity. Very disappointed in it.

[@andesneko]

I only hate its software dependency. And it is a bit too long.

[@DJPocholo]

I love the oxygen pro mini! That's one of my dream gears on my small studio 🙏🙏

[@SanjayC]

Ah I see your dream keyboard here now!

[@DJPocholo]

@@SanjayC Thanks for the reply Sanjay i really appreciated this. Keep grinding stay safe 🙂

[@dasnohvit]

There is a lot of producers right now messing around with hardware synths... or maybe will be doing that in the short term. When that happens, the "MIDI out" connection is extremely useful. specially with modules of devices with small or strange keys like the Volca's.

[@SanjayC]

Agreed. Especially in a small form factor

[@keshavrajlahoti8109]

i LOVE my akai mpk mini mk3. sweetest pad!!! keys feel a little less sensitive but gets the job done and pretty well. i wished it had auto sync for knobs in logic pro :( but hey it an amazing keyboard to travel with. and if you are like me who make beats outdoor then akai is an excellent option!!!!

[@SanjayC]

Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@ChocolatePuppies]

Good Luck to everyone 🤞🏼 I actually need a midi keyboard and the oxygen is at the top of my list. Thank you for giving back to the music community!!

[@deefreddie8468]

The oxygen pro mini looks amazing and complicated to use

[@reinventionjournal]

This was an excellent roundup. I was torn between the limited options I get where I live, but you made my decision painless. I am getting the Launchkey Mini. Thank you very much. Subscribed.

[@micespe8522]

Sanjay, Sanjay! Man every video you do is just spot on! If I did a top 6 in KZbin contributors for knowledge, quality, and insight you are in every slot for me of the Top 6. No comparison to what your channel has brought to me as an artist and my wallet. As for these keyboards the Arturia MiniLab for me is purely the bestt quality made for the bucks, but overall my first purchase was the NI M32 and still holds the quality that it started with since the day I got it at release. The others for the price do have their plus and minuses, but to me can't hold up to the M32 and Arturia MiniLab. Thanks again for just inspiring all of us out here to Make the music we love! :)

[@jerzykaczmarczyk8657]

THANK YOU MY BROTHER FROM ANOTHER COUNTRY AND ANOTHER FAMILY!!!

[@Makwaje]

Love the Novation :)

[@SanjayC]

Yeah, its awesome

[@sofiejensen3804]

Honestly as an It guy (main work) I think that it is a deal breaker if the keyboards do not have endless knobs... I can live with the transport controls are on the main system, but the knobs always have to sync with the instrument I am using and that only happens if they are endless.

[@peralta229]

My most favorite keyboard is M-audio oxygen pro mini, Arturia minilab, Novation launchkey mini and the Native instruments M32 sir. Thanks for making this video sir.😁😃😀

[@SanjayC]

I'm glad you like it! :-)

[@peralta229]

@@SanjayC I wish we have some refresh in these keyboards sir.🙂😊☺️

[@cheapnoiseinthehouse5578]

What's the cheapest keyboard with standard midi out. I don't care abojt the pads or knobs or arpegiators.

[@paradox7828]

One of the most informative midi keyboards videos. Thanks

[@SanjayC]

You're very welcome!

[@ScottysAnimals]

I appreciate the concise review and detailed descriptions of features I didn't even understand or consider.

[@WhiteFalconus]

Agree with you there. After buying an Alesis V25 I was SO relieved to be able to return it and get the money back. The keybed was atrocious, sometimes sending a midi message, sometimes not. Then I bought the Minilab 2 and that was a totally different level, the best keys from all mini controllers I have tried. And boy its sturdy, its now my main controller at home. The strip is the best way to control modulation for me, hands down. Also got a Roland A-49 (which is not exactly mini) for piano recordings. Finally a week ago I went for the Akai MPC Mini MK3, the all black one. The black keys are something to get my brain around for sure and they are not as good as the Minilab, still nice though. But the drumpads are better than the Minilab and the knobs feel more solid too. The arpeggiator is a gimmick that I cant imagine ever using, when about every single VST includes it. I hope my mini midi journey ends here :)

[@megaboy2811]

if you had to pick one, the arturia or akai, which one would you choose? And also which daw do you use?

[@WhiteFalconus]

@@megaboy2811 I use Ableton Live. The choice depends on what you put the highest emphasis on. If you want the best keys and easy looping controls in Ableton, go for the Arturia. If you need it to be more portable with slightly better pads, go for the Akai. If I had to choose only one, I would choose Arturia.

[@BrookePalmer]

Such a well-made, informative video, thank you, this helped me a lot!

[@alexanderplayspiano7157]

Going into the holidays, I'm looking forward to parking work and laying down some ideas I've had for a while. Keep making the videos, Sanjay. Namaste.

[@Ivanmartinezalvear]

Man Christmas is just here!!!

[@by_antony]

I have the AKAI MPK mini mk3. I am a beginner in terms of electronic music production and I wanted something to get me started. The AKAI did not let me down. However, I have not been able to map the knobs, not that I understand the applications of them yet, and I could not get on with the pads. I played real drums as a teenager with a good sense of rhythm, and still occasionally play them, though I don't own a set myself, but the sensitivity on these pads, or lack of, seemed to be an issue for me. However, as a MIDI controller (I can play the notes as opposed to 'writing' then into my DAW), I have found this invaluable.

[@by_antony]

I think the AKAI LPK25 would be better, but same price as MPK mini

[@Xenofauna]

Hell yeah, Imperial Godzilla!

[@dinocaster3371]

I have the NI M32, Akai mini mk3, and Launchkey mini mk3 and they all have their pros and cons. It baffles me that there just can't be a perfect mini keyboard. Perfect to me = drum pads, endless knobs, pitch and mod wheel or touchpad, light weight and compact. -Akai mpk mini has the best drum pads and endless knobs, but the pitch and mod stick is horrible to control and the keys velocity response is really weird (too soft). -Launchkey mini mk3 has alright keys and drum pads and the pitch/mod touchpads work well. The knobs are horrible tho. Really tiny and not endless. -M32 has really good key feel but is slightly larger with 32 keys. The endless knobs and touchpads work well but there are no drum pads. -Arturia minilab seems to have all the best features: good keys, endless knobs, drum pads, pitch/mod touchpads. But it's heavier and bulkier than the others, not super light and portable. 🤷🤷🤷

[@rchrd3353]

touchpads actually don't work well on the launchkey mini 3 .. at least both of the 2 that i tested. pitch bend only went to 99% in one direction on both of them (tested multiple daws and computers) .. seems like they're installed off center or calibrated poorly . i also personally think a joystick is much better than a strip.. much more expressive and fun to play for pitch bends, even more so than a traditional wheel.. though the mod wheel function on joysticks does suffer a bit to compensate. they are also excellent to use for x/y pads on certain synths like u-he zebra and the like

[@SanjayC]

Arturia does what it does very well, but its missing transport controls which I really like to have.

[@Jason75913]

if the Akai has springs on the joystick, one could try to remove the ones that center modulation, et voilá, problem solved

[@rchrd3353]

@@Jason75913 I personally just disable mod wheel from the stick and bind it to one of the 8 knobs if I ever need it

[@sneezingfrog]

Nice comparison of the options. I actually prefer the lack of transport controls on the MiniLab, as I've got those on a FaderPort, and the FaderPort's a very complete solution for me in that space, so I'm not interested in that functionality from a keyboard, and I'd prefer that the real estate was used for other things. Add to that the nice keys, endless encoders and the simple and elegant integration with Analog Lab, and to me it's everything I want, and nothing I don't. I mean heck, for the price here, it feels a bit as if they're giving you an excellent keyboard as a throw-in with Analog Lab, rather than the other way around. Truly an excellent value in my opinion.

[@vincebu6441]

Just grabbed the arturia myself.. love the channel!!!

[@SanjayC]

Nice! I'm sure you're loving the keys!

[@debdootmanna]

Another great video. This will cross more than 500k views

[@SanjayC]

Very kind of you. Thanks for always supporting me, Debdoot!

[@EndInformation]

NK M32 + Ableton Push 2 + my old Korg M50 is a dream setup for live performance and recording.

[@rabbitknight]

M32 is my main keyboard! Love the NKS control!

[@SanjayC]

Yeah, its hard to top that feature!

[@Wooooosaaaaaa]

Haven’t watched since you were wearing the Tudor, nice upgrade :) glad I’m back

[@SanjayC]

Hey thanks for coming back. Actually this isn't really an upgrade. Its the reduced model and I bought it used in Japan a few years ago. Japan has a really nice (and reputable) used watch market. Gotta get a deal! :-D

[@nataliebetito5818]

Best review ever: very professional, straight to the point and reliable. I guess I'm going to buy the LX mini. Thanks a lot for helping me with my decision. =)

[@ScottysAnimals]

Just a quick update, I decided to go with the M-Audio oxygen Pro Mini 32, but when it arrived I realized it could not be found by Propellerhead Reason software. Lots of other models are even though it said on Amazon that it was compatible. It does work but I could not get everything to map. Could be user error but my Akai 249 works practically plug & Play. I just wanted something a bit smaller less cumbersome on my desk but I will just make do with what I have.

[@robinbroadwater2147]

Forgive me for leaving a second comment, but I've come up with questions that may spark additional videos for you. All of the keyboards sound nice, but, for me, M-Audio edges them out, because of the additional features and DAW compatibility. My questions: 1) When you include music samples in your videos, will you please let us know which keyboards you used to make them? If you ever use anyone else's chord packs, on any of those, will you tell us which? And, if you haven't, will you offer reviews on chord packs? I really just want to know who you find best overall, and, best for the money. 2) Similarly, will you share your opinion on best overall, and best for the money VI's? 3) Lastly, are you going to grace us with a class on music production? I keep seeing other artists' Monthly classes advertised on KZbin, and was just curious. If you don't, I would love to know whose classes you'd recommend. If you do, whichever platform/s AND whichever artist/s SHOULD pay you, for sending them business. Thanks again, for another great video.

[@A1DULLU]

The black on black looks 🔥

[@cambopup777]

Hi Sanjay, great video as always! I own an Akai MPK Mini MK3 and I’m considering of getting M-Audio Oxygen Pro mini as I really like all the features it comes with, but I heard a lot of people mentioned about the unreliability of its quality about the key, pads, or error midi messages. So far how’s your experience using it?

[@lorebringers]

Did you get it? How it is?

[@karaofreedom8503]

Update????

[@vibeoinktunes8396]

Love the Godzilla dude!! Good video info too 👍

[@SanjayC]

I appreciate that!

[@EspenFrafalne]

As i usually dont play keyboard, Maschine MK3 + Komplete Ultimate is my favorite compact setup. So much content that after 10 years of sporadic use, i still have tons of stuff to explore ☺

[@Rio-uv1gs]

Nektar 49 key is my faithful keyboard

[@SanjayC]

If it ain't broke...;-)

[@karlafdez.4036]

Defenitely love the arturia😍

[@veegionthetrack]

Best music gear comparison videos on youtube.

[@SanjayC]

Wow, thanks!

[@c-tzemthebeatmaker]

M32 is Awesome, but the Launchkey mini is the winner for me... Now I already have the idea which one to have .. Thanks! As always, Dope videos 🙌💯

[@maomallows]

This was awesome. Thank you for this video.

[@SanjayC]

You're welcome! 🙏

[@iamshiv21]

Notification squad 🤟❤️

[@SanjayC]

Wow...even on a weekday, Shiv is on time!! What do you think of these keys?

[@iamshiv21]

@@SanjayC I like oxygen pro.

[@SanjayC]

Yeah, that one's hard to beat!

[@ry7hym]

@@iamshiv21 same! I bought the 25 key one this black friday, it's a tad bit older but I like the large keys and aftertouch

[@AhayahsProphetBahbahkuyah]

BLESSINGS TO MY BROTHER

[@SanjayC]

Blessings to you too, Ahayahs

[@mrz80]

After a re-watch, and checking some other folks' comparisons and reviews, and scrounging around on Reverb and FB Marketplace, I went used again. Got an Axiom Air Mini 32. Looks like it's got a fairly good subset of the Oxygen Pro Mini's capabilities, and is considerably thinner and less expensive. Just the thing to toss into the backpack and take on a cruise to Alaska; I can sit on the ship watching the ocean and pretending to write music. :D

[@hectornajerahoz]

I love the portability of the Arturia, it is one of the elements that my Home Studio lacks and it is essential for creating music through virtual instruments. I would love to have one.

[@Apfelsaft85]

Thanks for this Video! It is very helpful. Very well done

[@SanjayC]

You're very welcome!

[@HernanBz]

Hi Sanjay, amazing your videos! You know I am currently using a Nektar Impact lx88 + but I would love to have an Arturia or NI. I loved the video and I admire the philosophy of both you and your partner to give and help small artists, producers! they really are unique. Greetings!

[@rafaelmdiaz11]

Heh Heh I like the way you position the action figures in each take ! Gozilla vs Darth Vader :)

[@seelamvishal]

I personally like having hardware controls on the board but then I never see myself using them. Once I get on my system for editing I don't usually like taking my hand off the keyboard

[@KingHill2015]

Love that oxygen pro. Great review

[@SanjayC]

Thank you ashley!

[@ipamabeats]

I always learn each day because your video, you are the goat! My g

[@corvid19]

Nice video. I’d like to see you do a similar one for non-keyboard controllers, as I’m looking to complement a Launchpad X with knobs and faders. The obvious choice is maybe the Launchcontrol XL, but I haven’t seen many comparisons to alternatives.

[@Steve.Dennis]

Excellent. Good production.

[@jadenphan8106]

Awesome review as always. Thanks Sanjay! I already have an M32 - love the size & NI integration. Thanks to another review of yours, I am planning on getting a Hammer 88 Pro for playing piano pieces. I still want a 49 controller for more controls of daw, workflow & synth actions. I am debating between Komplete Kontrol S49 MKII and Novation SL49. S49 is perfect for NI with beautiful screens, but can't beat Ableton integration like Novation SL49. Considering my setup, would you recommend me either one of S49 or SL49?

[@SanjayC]

I love combining a large keyboard like the Novation SL or Arturia Keylab with the M32 - you'll pretty much have everything you need. Also the Hammer 88 is great if you want that piano feel - best value for sure

[@jadenphan8106]

​@@SanjayC Thank you for your advice. Cheers!!☺

[@bartjanc]

M32 & hammer 88 pro is exactly what i have. Love them

[@phero2]

Great video!

[@KIGALIBEATS]

Great job 🔥🔥

[@SanjayC]

Thanks so much!

[@giuseppemarchiello5962]

recentely moved to another country for work, thank you for this video. It will help me to buy a keyboard when i'll save some money!

[@SanjayC]

So glad to hear that!