The 12 Best Budget MIDI Keyboards - Our Favourites Under £100 (2024)

If you’re looking to expand your studio setup without breaking the bank, finding the right MIDI keyboard for you is essential.

In this guide to the best budget MIDI keyboards, we’ll explore various models that balance cost and functionality. Hopefully, we’ll help you pick a keyboard that not only fits your budget but also inspires your creativity. Let’s dive in and discover the perfect MIDI keyboard for your music-making needs.

In a hurry?

Here are our favourite MIDI keyboards under £100 at the moment and why we like them:

Why we’ve chosen these MIDI keyboards

In selecting these MIDI keyboards, we made sure to strike a balance between affordability and functionality. Our options offer the best value for money with essential features such as responsive keybeds, adequate controls like sliders and knobs for expressive performances, and compact designs suitable for small studio spaces or mobile setups.

MIDI keyboards come in all shapes and sizes, so having a good variety of choices – along with our buying advice at the end of the article – should guide you in the right direction Additionally, these keyboards are compatible with a wide range of music production software, making them great for both beginners and seasoned producers looking for a cost-effective solution.

Our aim is to ensure that each recommended MIDI keyboard delivers on both quality and usability, providing you with reliable options that don’t compromise on the essentials.

The best budget MIDI keyboards

1. Novation LaunchKey Mini MK3

Key features

• 25 mini keys
• 16 RGB pads
• Eight rotary knobs

Pros

• Compact and portable design
• Seamless integration with Ableton Live
• Versatile controls suitable for various music production tasks

Cons

• Limited key range may not suit all playing styles

The Novation LaunchKey Mini MK3 offers an impressive array of features for its price. Equipped with 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys, 16 RGB pads, and eight rotary knobs, this controller provides ample control for beat-making and live performances.

The dedicated navigation and transport controls make your workflow extremely efficient, especially with seamless integration with Ableton Live that’s ideal for on-the-go music creation. Additionally, its pitch and modulation touch strips add expressive capabilities without the bulk of traditional wheels.

Compact in size, it’s perfect for producers who need a portable setup without compromising on functionality.

2. Arturia MiniLab 3

Key features

• 25 velocity-sensitive keys
• 8 RGB backlit, pressure-sensitive pads
• 16 rotary encoders

Pros

• Compact and highly portable
• Integrated with Ableton Live Lite
• Responsive controls ideal for both studio and live performance

Cons

• Limited to 25 keys, which might restrict range for some users

For just under £100, the Arturia MiniLab 3 balances functionality and value. With 25 velocity-sensitive keys, it enables you to play expressively and comfortably as it can fit on even the most cramped desks. Eight RGB pads then enhance your control over percussion and samples, perfect for fleshing out compositions or live performances.

For extensive manipulation and control over your sound, you have 16 rotary encoders that can tweak volume, adjust synth parameters, and more, all at your fingertips. Additionally, the two touch strips provide fluid pitch bends and modulation, adding character and depth to your music. Its compact size and USB-powered design ensure it is easily portable, making it a superb choice for musicians on the go.

The MiniLab 3 comes pre-mapped for seamless use with Ableton Live Lite, which is included. This is great for beginners who want all the essential features of Ableton and to be able to start creating straight out of the box.

But it’s not just for beginners. With its mini display providing feedback for your settings and functions, the MiniLab comes jam-packed with all the tools a producer could need, including performance pads, faders, and a touch strip. The included music software bundle gives you everything to help you get started straight out of the box, including premium-quality virtual instruments for Native Instruments.

3. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32

Key features

• 32 compact keys with pre-mapped control for many popular DAWs
• OLED display for real-time feedback
• 8 touch-sensitive control knobs

Pros

• Lightweight and highly portable design
• Extensive software bundle, including Maschine Essentials and Ableton Live 10 Lite
• Smart Play features like scales, chords, and arpeggios

Cons

• Compact keys may not suit players used to full-sized keys

Another great choice for under £100, the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 packs a considerable punch for its cost, offering a wealth of features that make it ideal for budget-conscious musicians.

This controller boasts 32 compact keys, providing a wider octave range than many other models in the same price bracket. It’s particularly notable for its seamless DAW integration, coming with pre-mapped control over KOMPLETE instruments, FX, and hundreds of NKS plug-ins.

Eight touch-sensitive knobs and a clear OLED display enhance your ability to tweak sounds and effects on the fly, ensuring a hands-on and intuitive experience. The touch strip adds expressive capabilities for pitch and modulation, giving performances and recordings a nuanced feel.

Its light and compact design makes the M32 an ideal travel companion for producers on the move, fitting easily into backpacks and small studio spaces. The comprehensive software bundle, including Maschine Essentials, Ableton Live 10 Lite, and a selection of NI’s own Komplete Instruments and Effects, adds incredible value, allowing you to dive into music production with a range of tools at your disposal.

4. SubZero MiniCommand USB MIDI Controller and Keyboard

Key features

• 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys
• 8 programmable pads with two banks
• 8 assignable knobs and 1 master volume fader

Pros

• Compact size ideal for limited space and portability
• Versatile control options for extensive customisation
• Affordable price with a comprehensive feature set

Cons

• Doesn’t include any DAW software like other MIDI keyboards on the list

Offering great value for its price, the SubZero MiniCommand USB MIDI Controller and Keyboard is an excellent choice for musicians seeking a functional yet budget-friendly MIDI controller. This unit features 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys, giving you enough range to perform while maintaining a compact footprint that’s perfect for small studios or mobile setups.

There are eight programmable pads, each with two banks, giving you ample control over samples and beats and adding depth and variety to your music production. The eight assignable knobs and four faders make it straightforward to tweak and fine-tune your sounds in real time.

Pitch bend and modulation wheels further enhance your expressive capabilities, ensuring that each performance is as dynamic as it is unique. The four faders can be used to control everything from volume to automation, complete with transport controls for navigating between different settings at a touch.

This controller’s USB-powered and plug-and-play design ensures that you can get started quickly, with no need for external power supplies or complicated installation processes. Its integration with most DAWs is smooth, thanks to its straightforward setup, making it a great starter controller for those new to music production or seeking a compact, travel-friendly option.

5. SubZero ControlKey61 MIDI Keyboard

Key features

• 61 programmable velocity-sensitive keys
• 4 assignable control knobs with 2 function groups
• Supports most popular operating systems

Pros

• Comprehensive DAW integration
• Versatile control options
• Compatible with Windows and Mac

Cons

• May be complex for beginners

The SubZero ControlKey61 MIDI Keyboard offers excellent value for money, boasting a great array of features that cater well to both new and experienced musicians at a modest price point. This 61-key controller is not just about the basics; it offers programmable velocity-sensitive keys that provide nuanced control over dynamics, making it ideal for detailed expressive playing.

One of the keyboard’s strongest selling points is its robust DAW integration capabilities. With programmable keys that can be set to different MIDI channels and behaviours, you gain extensive control over your digital audio workstation. This integration is pivotal for producers using software like Ableton, as it allows for the creation of unique effects and innovative tracks.

Additionally, the keyboard is equipped with pitch bend and modulation wheels, and each can be configured to a wide range of controls, enhancing your ability to shape sound on the fly. The four assignable control knobs, each with two selectable banks, allow for precise manipulation of effects and parameters, all marked clearly with indicator LEDs for ease of use.

While the wealth of options and configurations might seem daunting to a beginner, the SubZero ControlKey61 offers plenty of potential for customisation and this makes it ideal for those that are looking to expand their toolkit without breaking the bank. Its design, focused on flexibility and compatibility, ensures that this keyboard will be a central piece of any music production environment.

6. Arturia Microlab

Key features

• Velocity-sensitive Keystep-grade keybed
• Includes Bitwig 8-Track DAW software
• Portable with integrated cable storage

Pros

• High-quality keybed for expressive play
• Comprehensive software bundle included
• Compact and travel-friendly design

Cons

• Limited number of controls

If you’re looking for a compact MIDI keyboard that packs a punch in terms of features and value, the Arturia Microlab could be just the ticket. For its price, it offers remarkable quality, including a velocity-sensitive keybed that’s identical to the one found on Arturia’s award-winning Keystep. This ensures a responsive and fluid playing experience that can suit any level of musical proficiency.

The Microlab isn’t just about the keys; it also comes equipped with two touch strips that are perfect for precise modulation and automation, adding a dynamic layer to your performance. Plus, four buttons provide essential functions such as sustain, chord play, and preset navigation, making it incredibly user-friendly.

What sets the Microlab apart is its impressive software bundle. It includes Analog Lab Lite, which features 600 presets from classic synthesizers and keyboards, offering a rich palette of sounds to inspire your music creation. Additionally, the UVI Grand Piano software provides a lifelike piano sound, sampled from a Steinway, for those seeking authentic acoustic piano tones.

Also included is Bitwig 8-Track – a lightweight yet powerful DAW that allows you to start producing right out of the box. It allows for the integration of both MIDI and audio tracks, making it versatile enough for both production and live performance setups.

To top it all off, the Microlab’s design is both sleek and practical. Its rubberised case and integrated cable storage make it ideal for musicians on the go, ensuring that you can create music wherever inspiration strikes.

Despite its expansive features, the controller’s limited physical controls might be a drawback for those who prefer more hands-on tweakability. However, for newcomers and those looking for portability and simplicity, the Microlab is a stellar choice.

7. Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 Laptop Production Keyboard

Key features

• Gen 2 enhanced keybed
• Classic-style MPC performance pads
• Complete Music Production Starter Kit included

Pros

• Highly expressive and sensitive controls
• Versatile control with knobs and joystick
• Compact design for mobile producers

Cons

• Might be overwhelming for beginners

The Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 is particularly great for those who produce on the go. It’s a comprehensive solution, delivering a high degree of control and expression for its price.

Central to the MPK Mini MK3 is its second-generation keybed, meticulously refined to capture every subtlety of your performance. This is then complemented by the classic-style MPC pads, inherited from iconic drum machines like the MPC 2000. These pads offer an unmatched dynamic response, ideal for a range of applications, from drumming to sample triggering.

Eight rotary knobs with endless encoders allow you to tweak your sound seamlessly within your DAW, enhancing your ability to shape music in real time. This level of integration is crucial for those who demand precision and flexibility in their workflow.

The device also comes equipped with a built-in arpeggiator, a four-way joystick for sound manipulation, and a note repeat function, which are fantastic for creating complex patterns and engaging musical pieces.

Included in the package is the Complete Music Production Starter Kit, which features an array of software and sounds, from MPC Beats to exclusive sound collections from renowned designers.

8. M-Audio Oxygen 25 MKV MIDI Keyboard

Key features

• Full 25-key velocity-sensitive keyboard
• 8 pads, knobs, and a fader for control
• Smart Chord and Smart Scale technology

Pros

• Deep software integration and DAW compatibility
• Built-in arpeggiator and Smart Controls
• Comes with professional software and learning tools

Cons

• Limited keys for advanced compositions

The M-Audio Oxygen 25 MKV is a compact keyboard designed to be both portable and powerful, featuring a 25-key velocity-sensitive keyboard that captures the nuances of your performance accurately.

It’s equipped with eight velocity-sensitive trigger pads for beat production or clip launching, providing a tactile experience akin to much larger setups. It also includes eight assignable knobs and a fader, which give you extensive control over your mixes and sound design, directly from the controller. This eliminates the need to constantly reach for your mouse, streamlining your creative process.

One of the standout features of this model is its Smart Chord and Smart Scale technology, which significantly speeds up composition and ensures you’re always in key. These are incredibly useful for both beginners learning music theory and seasoned producers speeding through their workflows.

Better still, the Oxygen 25 MKV offers seamless compatibility with popular programs like Ableton, Pro Tools, and Logic. This integration extends to its comprehensive control layout, which automatically maps common DAW functions for immediate access.

Included in the package are two DAWs – Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats – and premium virtual instruments, including a multi-oscillator synthesizer and a grand piano. These tools, along with a built-in arpeggiator, provide you with everything needed to start making music right away.

9. Nektar Impact LX Mini

Key features

• Dual arpeggiator and note repeat engines
• Seamless DAW integration with extensive control
• Dedicated instrument mode for precise tweaking

Pros

• Creative control with arpeggiator and repeat tools
• Deep integration with major DAWs
• Includes Bitwig 8-track DAW software

Cons

• Limited to 25 keys, may not suit all players

The Nektar Impact LX Mini offers a remarkable amount of control and functionality for its price, making it great for musicians of all levels. This compact MIDI keyboard is designed to maximise your creative potential without overwhelming your workspace.

The standout feature of the Impact LX Mini is its dual arpeggiator and note repeat engines. These tools allow you to instantly access and modify parameters like rate, swing, and tempo directly from the eight performance pads, enriching your music with intricate rhythms and patterns.

Integration with your digital audio workstation (DAW) is fluid and comprehensive. The Impact LX Mini boasts dedicated transport controls that cover essential recording and navigation functions, all operable from the keyboard itself. This level of DAW integration, compatible with leading software such as Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic, ensures a seamless workflow and keeps you focused on creativity rather than logistics.

The dedicated instrument mode is another highlight, offering detailed control over virtual instruments akin to tweaking hardware synths. With 16 parameters accessible via rotary knobs, you can adjust everything from oscillation tuning to LFO settings on the fly. The Nektar Grab software further enhances this by letting you save and recall your settings easily.

Additionally, there’s Bitwig 8-Track included, providing a solid foundation for music production.

10. Novation FLkey Mini for FL Studio

Key features

• 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys
• 16 RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads
• Extensive FL Studio integration

Pros

• Tailored for FL Studio with specific controls
• Comprehensive software suite included
• Innovative touch strips for pitch and modulation

Cons

• Primarily designed for FL Studio users

If you’re an FL Studio user, the Novation FLkey Mini is designed specifically to enhance your music production workflow within this DAW. This compact controller offers great value, featuring 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys that allow you to perform everything from simple melodies to expansive pads and basslines.

The FLkey Mini doesn’t just stop at keys. It includes 16 RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads, perfect for tapping in beats or triggering samples with precision and ease. Additionally, two touch strips provide nuanced pitch bend and modulation, adding expression to static notes.

One of the most significant features of the FLkey Mini is how easy it is to use with FL Studio. It comes equipped with eight rotary knobs that can be assigned to control virtually any aspect of your mix, from volume and pan settings to plugin parameters.

This integration extends to the FLkey Mini’s ability to navigate presets and control your DAW directly from the controller, significantly reducing your reliance on a mouse and keyboard.

The software bundle included with the FLkey Mini is equally impressive. A 6-month trial of FL Studio Producer Edition, along with a variety of VST instruments from XLN Audio, AAS, and Spitfire Audio, provides a robust foundation for any project. Additionally, Klevgrand’s DAW Cassette and Roverb offer unique effects to refine your mixes.

Whilst the Novation FLkey Mini is an excellent choice for FL Studio users requiring deep integration, the FLkey Mini can also be used with other popular DAWs making it highly versatile.

11. Akai Professional APC Key 25 MKII Ableton MIDI Controller

Key features

• 5×8 RGB pad matrix with dedicated controls
• Gen 2 optimised keybed
• Includes Ableton Live Lite and AIR plugins

Pros

• Deep integration with Ableton Live
• Endless encoders for precise control
• Compact and powerful for both studio and stage

Cons

• Primarily designed for use with Ableton Live

Ideal for Ableton Live users, the Akai Professional APC Key 25 MKII offers a wealth of features that encourage you to be creative while sticking with a streamlined workflow that integrates effortlessly with Ableton Live.

The centrepiece of the APC Key 25 MKII is its 5×8 RGB pad matrix. This matrix allows you to trigger clips, drum sounds, or even patterns with precision and ease, enhancing live performances and studio sessions alike. The pads are complemented by dedicated scene launch buttons and directional arrows that make navigating between clips and views within Ableton Live a breeze.

This MIDI controller doesn’t just excel in control but also expression. The newly improved Gen 2 keybed ensures that every detail of your performance is captured. This level of sensitivity is ideal for players who require nuanced dynamics and articulation in their music creation.

Additionally, the eight rotary knobs are endless encoders, offering limitless potential for tweaking and fine-tuning sounds. These can be effortlessly assigned to various parameters in Ableton Live, allowing for detailed adjustments to effects, volumes, and other settings.

Bundled with the controller is Ableton Live Lite and a suite of VST instruments from AIR Music Technology, including the versatile Hybrid 3 synthesizer, the Mini Grand piano, and the Velvet electric piano.

12. M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MKIII USB MIDI Keyboard

Key features

• 32 mini-keys for melody and chord playing
• USB-powered and class-compliant
• Includes a comprehensive software suite

Pros

• Ultra-portable and lightweight design
• Simple plug-and-play setup for Mac and PC
• Controls for octave, volume, pitch bend, and modulation

Cons

• Lacks extra controls compared to MIDI keyboards on the list

The M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MKIII is a highly practical solution for producers on the go or those just starting with MIDI controllers. Its compact and lightweight design makes it exceptionally easy to carry, allowing you to make music practically anywhere.

This controller connects seamlessly via USB to your laptop, providing a hassle-free, plug-and-play experience that’s ideal for quick setups in mobile environments. Being USB-powered and class-compliant, it eliminates the need for external power sources or drivers, making it even more convenient for portable music creation.

Despite its small size, the Keystation Mini 32 doesn’t skimp on functionality. It features 32 mini-keys that are perfect for playing chords and melodies, enhancing your ability to express musical ideas effortlessly. Octave switch buttons then allow you to extend the keyboard’s range, further increasing its versatility.

Control features on the Keystation Mini 32 include options for adjusting the octave range and volume and adding sustain, as well as on-the-fly pitch bend and modulation, which are crucial for expressive performances. These features ensure that you have substantial control over your music, even with a minimal setup.

The Keystation Mini 32 MKIII also comes with music production software and premium virtual instrument patches, providing everything needed to start creating music immediately.

What to consider when buying a budget MIDI keyboard

When selecting a budget MIDI keyboard, you want to ensure you get the best value and functionality for your money. Below are the key things we think you should look out for.

Software

Music software bundles and software compatibility is crucial. Many MIDI keyboards come with bundled software such as virtual instruments and DAWs, which can significantly enhance their value. For instance, the Novation FLkey Mini includes a free copy of FL Studio Producer Edition, making it ideal for users of that DAW​.

Similarly, some keyboards like the Arturia Microlabintegrate seamlessly with Arturia’s Analog Lab Lite software, providing a vast array of sounds right out of the box.

Encoders and faders

Encoders and sliders are essential for hands-on control over your music production software. The quality and number of these controls can vary significantly. If you’re a beginner, you might not want a huge range of controls – as that can be overwhelming – but you’ll want enough that you can control your DAW easily and efficiently and get creative with your music.

Key action and touch sensitivity

Key action and touch sensitivity are about how the keys respond to your playing. Keyboards like theSubZero MiniCommand offer a balanced response that reacts to the speed and force in which you press the keys, giving you expressive dynamics. Additionally, you may want to look out for touch-sensitive keys as these allow for more expressive performance capabilities, which can be crucial for certain music styles.

Number of keys

The number of keys on the keyboard affects both the range of musical expression and the portability of the unit.

Keyboards typically come in configurations from 25 keys to 88 keys; the right number for you will depend on your use case. For example, 25-key models like the Novation LaunchKey Mini MK3 are compact and perfect for on-the-go musicians, while a 49-key or 61-key model might be better suited for a home studio setup.

Connectivity

You’ll need to know how the keyboard will fit into your existing setup. USB connectivity is standard, but additional connectivity options like MIDI Out, pedal inputs, and CV/Gate outputs are beneficial for those who use a mix of software and hardware instruments.

Performance pads and wheels

Interacting with sound and virtual instruments can be made easier using performance pads and pitch/modulation wheels. Performance pads are great for sampling, finger-drumming and creating melodies on the fly. Modulation/pitch wheels allow you to create advanced articulation when playing melodies and composing, allowing you to make subtle pitch changes or modulate your chosen sound.

FAQs

What MIDI keyboard should I buy a beginner?

The Novation LaunchKey Mini MK3 is ideal for a beginner. With 25 velocity-sensitive keys, its size is manageable for learning and offers enough octaves to play a wide range of music. The keyboard also offers easy integration with software, and it’s within a budget price range.

What is the difference between cheap and expensive MIDI keyboards?

The main difference between cheap and expensive MIDI keyboards lies in build quality, features, and key action. Expensive MIDI keyboards often have weighted keys, advanced controls, and better integration capabilities. Cheaper versions might lack these but can still be suitable for basic needs.

Is a MIDI keyboard OK for beginners?

MIDI keyboards are excellent for beginners. They offer a cost-effective way to learn keyboard skills and music production. Plus, they’re extremely versatile and are the perfect tool for igniting creativity, allowing beginners to explore various sounds and software.

Final thoughts

We’ve had a good look at the best budget MIDI keyboards under £100, and there really is something out there for everyone, from compact models that are great for on-the-go tunes to those packed with music software bundles.

Remember, the right pick for you depends on what you need it for and what’s going to make your music-making easier and more creative. We hope this list has helped you find what you’re looking for in your perfect MIDI keyboard!