8 Best USB MIDI Keyboard Controllers 2023
by The Press Desk
We have trawled through many discussion threads over our boards to determine ten of the best currently available MIDI/USB keyboard controllers, so, for your convenience, here we go!
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2
For many, Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 the definition of an "endgame" keyboard controller that checks most, if not all, of the boxes: premium 88-key Fatar keybed that feels like a real piano, two high-resolution color screens for easy browsing, expressive four-directional push encoders, dedicated function buttons and an impressive bundled software suite developed by those who are certainly among the best in the industry. And with the ever-growing list of compatible instruments under the "NKS" standard, this is definitely a wise choice if you're looking for a keyboard that provides total integration with many of the best virtual instruments out there.
Expressive E Osmose
Playable as a standalone polyphonic synth or as an MIDI Keyboard, the Expressive E Osmose 49-key gesture-sensitive keybed offers users the company's AKA (Augmented Keyboard Action) technology providing players the ability to express themselves in three dimensions of control per key by making use of the MPE (Multidimensional Polyphonic Expression) protocol. Osmose also features up to 24 voices, USB and DIN MIDI connections, 2 continuous pedal inputs, a color LCD screen, pitch and modulation sliders and much more.
Novation FLkey 37
FL Studio is certainly a popular DAW amongst electronic music producers, and Novation acknowledged that to deliver a controller that is especially catered for them. With a layout that is optimized for FL's Step Sequencer, Channel Rack and Mixer, the FLkey 37 integrates seamless to the software to provide a fast-paced workflow that is not to be found anywhere else.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
The smaller brother in the Komplete Kontrol line is no slouch, and despite its small size that easily fits inside a small backpack, it packs a lot of interesting features, including support for NKS-compatible instruments, eight assignable encoders and a keybed that is far more impressive than its footprint might indicate. If you're a fan of Native Instruments and would like a compact controller to take wherever you go, look no further.
Roland A-88MKII
It’s all about actual keyboard playing with the elegant Roland A-88 MKII controller. Presenting a fully-weighted keyboard and three user-definable zones, the A-88 MKII has a strong focus on performance and on providing the user with an instrument that is straightforward to use and that feels as realistic as possible. In addition to the stellar keybed, the A-88 MKII comes with an array of RGB-lit knobs and pads, a sustain pedal input plus two fully-assignable pedal inputs, a macOS/Windows control app for custom control and instant recall together with Roland’s unique pitch/mod lever. If you're after that “Ivory Feel-G”, this is it.
Arturia Keystep 37
Arturia’s Keystep 37 isn’t your regular MIDI controller. Besides a 37-note keyboard with velocity plus aftertouch, this rather portable unit comes with a highly programmable arpeggiator, polyphonic sequencers and serious CV capabilities for seamless integration with modular synthesizers and one of the best options to control eurorack rigs. All in all it's an excellent keyboard controller plus sequencer combo with some unique features that makes it a very interesting choice for electronic musicians and producers.
Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2
Akai APC Key25 MK2 is a compact MIDI Keyboard that seamlessly integrates with Ableton Live for clip launching and composing. The unit features a 5x8 Grid Matrix with 40 RGB-backlit pads, 8 assignable endless 360 rotary knobs, 4 directional arrows to navigate the clip matrix and dedicated scene launch buttons. APC Key25 MK2 also includes Ableton Live Lite Music Production Software and three AIR Music Technology plugin instruments; Hybrid 3 Polyphonic Synth, Mini Grand Acoustic Piano and Velvet Vintage Electric Piano instrument for Mac and PC.
Nektar Impact LX Mini
Small but mighty the Nektar Impact LX Mini is a 25-key MIDI controller with intelligent mapping for major DAWs (Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Digital Performer, Garageband, Logic Pro, Nuendo, Reason, SONAR, Studio One, FL Studio and Reaper) meaning it comes pre-mapped and configured so users can spend more time producing instead of configuring. The unit also features 8 color-coded performance pads, 4 pad maps giving users a total of 32 possible note assignments, 8 control knobs, 2-built-in arpeggiators and full transport controls.
There's the list, with plenty of options to cater for most tastes, needs and pocketbooks. For more on MIDI controllers, synthesizers and virtual instruments please visit our Electronic Music Instruments & Electronic Music Production board.
