Best MIDI Cables of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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MIDI cables are an essential component for any musician or producer who works with electronic instruments or equipment. These cables allow for the transmission of data between devices, enabling the user to control and manipulate sounds in real-time. MIDI cables are available in various lengths and configurations, including standard 5-pin DIN and USB connections. They are durable and reliable, designed to withstand the demands of studio and live performance environments. Whether you are a professional musician or a hobbyist, MIDI cables are an essential tool for unlocking the full potential of your electronic instruments and equipment.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mellbree 2-Pack 3-Feet MIDI Cable Cover #TOP 1
Mellbree 2-Pack 3-Feet MIDI Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.8
CME MIDI Cable 4-Pack Cover #TOP 2
CME MIDI Cable 4-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable Cover #TOP 3
Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 MIDI Cables

Mellbree 2-Pack 3-Feet MIDI Cable

Mell-CBL-5pin-3
Black
3-Feet
Mellbree 2-Pack 3-Feet MIDI Cable Cover
Mellbree MIDI Cable, 2-Pack 3-Feet Male to Male 5-Pin MIDI Cable Compatible with MIDI Keyboard, Keyboard Synth, Rack Synth, Sampler, External Sound Card, Sound Source and Other Music Gear

The Mellbree MIDI Cable is a 2-pack 3-feet male to male 5-pin cable that is perfect for recording studios, music rooms, and live performances. It is designed with a standard 5-pin MIDI cable, individually wired through end to end pin to pin, and a keyed 5-pin DIN connector with 180-degree pin configuration. The cable is compatible with devices with standard MIDI 5-pin interface, providing high-quality sound collection. The nickel-plated connector is firm and stable and can withstand repeated plugging and unplugging. It has an oxygen-free copper core with high transmission efficiency and a built-in shielding layer that prevents electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference.

What We Like
Good price
Fast delivery
Works as intended
Perfect for electronic drums
Simple and effective
What We Don't Like
Feels a little cheap
Not heavy duty
#TOP 2

CME MIDI Cable 4-Pack

CME
S-F000C20
Black
4-PACK - 1FT
CME MIDI Cable 4-Pack Cover
CME MIDI Cable 4-Pack - 1FT / 30cm, 5-pin DIN, Low-Profile - Mirrored 45-Degree Angled Ultra-Thin Plugs for Compact Spaces - Ideal for MIDI Interface, Pedalboard, Keyboard

The CME MIDI Cables offer a convenient way to connect your MIDI devices. With their ultra-thin, high-performance plugs, you can enjoy fast data transmission without any delay, even in tight spaces. The mirrored 45-degree angle design makes it easy to plug in your equipment. These cables are universally compatible, allowing you to connect keyboards, synthesizers, and pedals effortlessly. Built with nickel-plated connectors and an oxygen-free copper core, they are durable enough for frequent use and shielded to prevent any interference, ensuring reliable data transfer every time.

What We Like
Space-saving design
Low profile for tight spaces
Mirrored connectors for flexibility
Thin, flexible cable
Easy to connect and disconnect
What We Don't Like
Thin cable may not withstand abuse
Pricey for simple design
#TOP 3

Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable

500041-6x2
Black
6 ft
Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable Cover
Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 5 Pin MIDI Cable - 6 Feet

The Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable is a cost-effective solution for connecting your MIDI keyboard controller, MIDI foot controller, MIDI analog synthesizer, or MIDI sequencer. With a superior construction including a keyed 5 pin DIN connector with easy-grip treads and molded strain-relief on each end, these male to male 5 pin MIDI cables are wired straight through to support MIDI equipment. This 2-pack provides one cable to support the MIDI IN function and one cable to support MIDI OUT on a MIDI instrument panel. The flexible cable is easy to use on the desktop and coil up when not in use with a portable MIDI keyboard.

What We Like
Great price
Effective for connecting synths
Good for studio/home use
Nice appearance and build quality
Reliable performance with no glitches
What We Don't Like
Thin cables may lack durability
#TOP 4

Roland 5ft MIDI Cable

RMIDI-B5
Black series
5 feet
Roland 5ft MIDI Cable Cover
Roland 5ft MIDI Cable-Black Series, 5 feet (RMIDI-B5)

The Roland MIDI Cable is designed with commercial-grade nickel DIN connectors, ensuring a reliable and secure connection for your devices. Its four conductor wire enhances signal quality, allowing for clear data transmission between your MIDI instruments and equipment. Additionally, the high-density spiral shielding protects against interference, which is essential for maintaining sound integrity during performances or recordings. With its durable construction, this cable is built to withstand regular use, making it a great choice for both studio and live settings.

What We Like
High build quality
Thick and sturdy cables
Excellent connection reliability
Noise and interference-free
Attractive visual design
What We Don't Like
Price slightly higher than basics
#TOP 5

Mellbree MIDI Cable 5-Pack

Mel-5pingg-06BS
Black
2 feet / 60 cm
Mellbree MIDI Cable 5-Pack Cover
MIDI Cable, 5-Pack 2FT 5-pin DIN 45-Degree Mirrored Angled Plug Ultra-Thin Plugs for Compact Spaces Compatible with Keyboards, Synthesizers, Controllers, via Standard 5-pin DIN MIDI in/Out/Thru Ports

The Mellbree MIDI Cables are designed with an ultra-low profile, featuring a 45-degree angled plug that makes them perfect for tight spaces like pedalboards and tabletop setups. You can enjoy efficient and reliable MIDI transmission, as these cables support high-speed data transfer while minimizing interference. Built with durable materials, including nickel-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper cores, they can handle frequent use without losing performance. Their versatile compatibility allows you to connect various MIDI devices, ensuring a seamless experience whether you're a professional or a hobbyist.

What We Like
Low profile design
Thin and flexible cables
Right-angle connectors
No signal degradation
Great for cramped setups
What We Don't Like
Thin construction may raise concerns
#TOP 6

Hosa MID-315BK 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable

MID315BK
Black
15 Feet
Hosa MID-315BK 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable Cover
Hosa MID-315BK 5-Pin DIN to 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 15 Feet

This 15-foot cable is designed to interconnect MIDI devices with 5-pin DIN connectors. It is compatible with all MIDI standards, including SysEx, and features nickel-plated plugs for durability and efficient signal transfer. The Oxygen-Free Copper conductors enhance signal clarity, and the OFC spiral shields provide effective EMI and RFI rejection while maintaining flexibility.

What We Like
Durable and sturdy construction
Excellent value for the price
Reliable performance in various setups
Firm connectors with no play
Effective for MIDI connections
What We Don't Like
Initial stiffness in cables
May require adjustment for compatibility
#TOP 7

Roland RMIDI-G3 Midi Cable

RMIDI-G3
Gold series
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Roland RMIDI-G3 Midi Cable Cover
Roland Gold Series RMIDI-G3 Midi Cable, 3 feet, 1 Count (Pack of 1)

The Roland Midi Cable 3ft is designed to enhance your musical experience. Its three-foot length is perfect for connecting your instruments without excess slack. With heavy-duty connectors featuring gold contacts, you can expect superior signal transfer and durability. The cable’s four-conductor configuration ensures low-noise performance, allowing you to focus on your music without interference. Additionally, the heavy-duty polyethylene insulation adds an extra layer of protection, making it a reliable choice for both studio and live settings. With a lifetime guarantee, you can trust this cable to meet your needs for years to come.

What We Like
High-quality connectors
Impressive cable construction
Flexible length options
Reliable performance
Excellent customer service
What We Don't Like
Occasional shipping errors
#TOP 8

Heams 3 Pack 3FT MIDI Cables

605182767361
Black
3 FT
Heams 3 Pack 3FT MIDI Cables Cover
Heams 3 Pack Premium 3FT MIDI Cable, Stable & Fast Transmission and Long-Lasting MIDI Cables, Male to Male 5-Pin MIDI Cable for MIDI Keyboard, Electronic Piano, Electronic Drum

The Heams MIDI Cables offer reliable and quick signal transmission, ensuring you experience clear sound without delays. With premium oxygen-free copper cores, these cables enhance your music experience, making them perfect for any musician. Designed with durable nickel-plated connectors, they can withstand frequent use, saving you money in the long run. The standard 5-Pin DIN connectors are wired for optimal performance, making these cables ideal for various MIDI devices, including keyboards and electronic drums. Their user-friendly design allows for easy setup, so you can focus on creating music.

What We Like
Stable signal transmission
Durable connectors
Wide compatibility
Easy to set up
What We Don't Like
Only three pins connected
#TOP 9

Cable Matters Dual 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable

500056-BLK-3m
Black
Cable Matters Dual 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable Cover
Cable Matters Dual 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable (Combined 5 Pin MIDI Cable) - 9.8 Feet

The Cable Matters MIDI Cable is designed for musicians who want a reliable connection for their MIDI devices. This dual cable allows you to connect your MIDI keyboard, foot controller, or synthesizer effortlessly, making it ideal for both studio and live settings. With a straight-through wiring format, it supports both MIDI OUT and IN functions, reducing clutter and simplifying your setup. The durable design includes easy-grip connectors and strain relief, ensuring that you can use it comfortably and pack it away without hassle when you're done.

What We Like
Color-coded for easy setup
High-quality throughput
Durable and reliable cables
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Short lifespan
#TOP 10

FORE 16.5 Feet MIDI Cable 2-Pack

FORE
F-MCR5
16.5-Feet
FORE 16.5 Feet MIDI Cable 2-Pack Cover
FORE 16.5 Feet 2-Pack MIDI Cable Male to Male 5-Pin DIN Compatible with MIDI Keyboard/Synthesizer/Guitar Multi Effects/Audio Interface/Audio Mixer/Auido Amplifier/External Sound Card/Red

The FORE MIDI Cable 2-Pack offers high-performance connectivity for your MIDI devices. With its advanced FTP processing chip, this cable ensures quick and stable data transmission, making it perfect for musicians and producers who need reliability. Its plug-and-play design means you can easily set it up without complicated driver installations, saving you time and hassle. Additionally, it supports a wide range of MIDI equipment, from keyboards to synthesizers, enhancing your studio or live performance setup. The durable construction further ensures that you can rely on these cables for consistent performance.

What We Like
High compatibility across devices
Compact and flexible design
Colorful for easy identification
Affordable price
Durable and well-made
What We Don't Like
Thin cable may concern some users
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best MIDI Cables

Introduction

When it comes to setting up a MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) system, choosing the right cables is crucial for ensuring smooth, interruption-free operation. In this article, we'll provide some key points to consider when selecting MIDI cables for your setup.

Types of MIDI Cables

MIDI cables come in two main varieties: standard MIDI cables and USB MIDI cables. Standard MIDI cables are the traditional type, featuring a five-pin DIN connector on each end. These cables are typically used to connect devices that have dedicated MIDI ports, such as synthesizers and sound modules.

On the other hand, USB MIDI cables are equipped with a USB connector on one end and a MIDI connector on the other. These cables can be used to connect MIDI devices to a computer, allowing the computer to act as a MIDI controller or interface. USB MIDI cables are also useful for connecting MIDI devices that don't have dedicated MIDI ports.

Choosing the Right Length

When selecting MIDI cables, it's important to choose the right length for your setup. If the cables are too short, you may have difficulty positioning your devices in the desired configuration. On the other hand, if the cables are too long, they can become tangled and cumbersome, leading to potential signal loss and other issues.

As a general rule, it's best to choose MIDI cables that are just long enough to reach the devices you want to connect, without any excess slack. If you're not sure how long your cables should be, it's a good idea to measure the distance between your devices and choose cables accordingly.

Considerations for Quality and Durability

MIDI cables are an essential component of any MIDI system, and it's important to choose cables that are of high quality and durability. Cheap, low-quality cables can cause signal loss, interference, and other problems, ultimately hindering the performance of your MIDI setup.

When shopping for MIDI cables, it's a good idea to look for cables that are specifically designed for use with MIDI devices. These cables are typically built with high-quality materials and construction techniques, ensuring reliable performance and long-lasting durability.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, choosing the right MIDI cables is an important step in setting up a successful MIDI system. By considering the type of cables you need, the appropriate length for your setup, and the quality and durability of the cables, you can ensure that your MIDI system operates smoothly and reliably.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do people still use MIDI cables?

Yes, MIDI cables are still widely used today, especially for triggering virtual software instruments in digital audio workstations (DAWs). MIDI has various applications and is commonly used in music production and live performances.

2. Is a MIDI cable faster than a USB?

USB is significantly faster than MIDI in terms of data transfer speed. However, USB can introduce more latency and jitter, which can affect timing. So while USB has the potential for higher speed, MIDI cables are still commonly used due to their reliability and compatibility with MIDI devices.

3. Is it better to use MIDI or USB?

The choice between MIDI and USB depends on the specific requirements and capabilities of your setup. USB offers higher bandwidth and the ability to support multiple virtual MIDI ports, while MIDI cables have a more established and reliable connection. Consider your needs and compatibility with your devices when deciding which connection to use.

4. Are all MIDI cables the same?

All MIDI cables have the same 5-pin DIN-type male connectors and use the same wiring. However, modern MIDI hardware has become smaller and more compact, catering to mobile computing devices and offering more flexibility in terms of size and design.

5. Is MIDI obsolete?

MIDI is not obsolete. The introduction of MIDI 2.0 allows for compatibility between MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0 devices, ensuring that older equipment can still be used alongside newer devices. This gradual adoption of the new protocol prevents rendering older MIDI devices obsolete.

6. What is the main disadvantage of using MIDI?

One of the main disadvantages of MIDI is that it relies on the sound generator or synthesizer to produce the sound. MIDI data itself does not contain information about timbre, tone, or expression. The quality and compatibility of the sound source and playback device play a crucial role in the final sound output.

7. Do I need a special USB cable for MIDI?

No, a standard USB cable with a Type A connector on one end and a Type B connector on the other end is commonly used to connect MIDI instruments to computers. This type of USB cable is widely available and compatible with MIDI devices.

8. What is the best length for a MIDI cable?

Theoretically, DIN-MIDI cables can reach a maximum length of 50 feet. However, many people experience intermittent signal loss and hanging notes when exceeding 20-30 feet. It's advisable to keep MIDI cable lengths within this range to maintain a reliable signal.

9. What type of MIDI cable do I need?

The most common type of MIDI cable is the 5-pin DIN connector. This connector has a semicircular arrangement of pins, with pins 4 and 5 transmitting the MIDI signal, pin 2 serving as the earth connection, and pins 1 and 3 not being used. Occasionally, you may encounter a 7-pin MIDI connection, but the 5-pin DIN connector is more prevalent.

Editor's Notes

During our midi cable research, we found 24 midi cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 24,883 customer reviews through our big data system to write the midi cables list. We found that most customers choose midi cables with an average price of $15.65.

The midi cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of midi cables, including Mellbree, CME, Cable Matters, Roland, HOSA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 792 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.

MIDI Cables Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Mellbree CME Cable Matters Roland Mellbree HOSA Roland Heams Cable Matters FORE
Connector Type 5-pin Din 5-pin Din Midi 5 Pin Din Din Connector 5 Pin Midi 5-pin Din to Same 5-pin Din 5-pin Midi Midi Midi / 5 Pin Din
Compatible Devices MIDI Keyboards, Electronic Pianos, Electronic Drums, External Sound Cards, Synthesizers, Samplers, Other Music Gear MIDI hardware, MIDI controller, MIDI interface, Pedalboard, Guitar Pedal, Keyboard, Digital Piano, Synthesizer PC MIDI Devices MIDI Interface, Pedalboard, Keyboard Personal Computer Musical Instrument, Synthesizer 5-Pin MIDI keyboard, electronic piano, electronic drum Keyboard Keyboard
Special Feature Data Transfer Ideal for MIDI Interface, Pedalboard, Keyboard, High-speed, Error-Free, Mirrored 45-Degree Angled Ultra-Thin Plugs for Compact Spaces Portable High Speed / Braided Low Noise All Copper Conductors and Nikle-plated Connector, 3 Times Durability Portable High Speed, Data Transfer
Cable Type USB 1 FT - Low-profile Audio cable MIDI MIDI CABLE AUX MIDI MIDI Audio cable -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
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