Best 5-Pin MIDI Cables of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

5-pin MIDI cables are a staple in the world of music production and performance. These cables are used to transmit MIDI data between electronic instruments, controllers, and other devices. They are essential for musicians who want to connect their MIDI-enabled gear and create complex arrangements and compositions. 5-pin MIDI cables are durable and reliable, ensuring that the data transmission is fast and accurate. They are available in various lengths and colors, making it easy to organize and set up a studio or stage. For musicians who rely on MIDI technology, 5-pin MIDI cables are a must-have accessory.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable Cover #TOP 1
Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Monoprice MIDI Cable - 10 Feet Cover #TOP 2
Monoprice MIDI Cable - 10 Feet
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mellbree 2-Pack 3-Feet MIDI Cable Cover #TOP 3
Mellbree 2-Pack 3-Feet MIDI Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 5-Pin MIDI Cables

#TOP 1

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
Cost-effective 2-pack
Superior construction
One cable to support MIDI IN and one cable to support MIDI OUT
#TOP 2

Monoprice MIDI Cable - 10 Feet

108533
Black
10 Feet
Monoprice MIDI Cable - 10 Feet Cover
Monoprice MIDI Cable - 5 Pin DIN Connectors, Shielded, Molded Connector Shells, 28 AWG, 10 Feet, Black

The Monoprice MIDI cable is a durable and high-quality cable that comes with a lifetime warranty. It features a standard, keyed 5-pin DIN connector on each end with molded connector shells. The soft but durable cable jacket makes it last a lifetime, and it is RoHS compliant. At a fair price, this cable is an excellent choice for all your MIDI needs.

What We Like
Durable and high-quality cable
Lifetime warranty
Soft and durable cable jacket
Reasonably-priced
#TOP 3

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
Compatible with devices with standard MIDI 5-pin interface
Two-pack for convenient backup or different cable length needs
Nickel-plated connector is firm and stable
Oxygen-free copper core with high transmission efficiency
#TOP 4

Hosa MID-310BK 5-Pin DIN to 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 10 Feet

MID310BK
Black
10 Feet
Hosa MID-310BK 5-Pin DIN to 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 10 Feet Cover
Hosa MID-310BK 5-Pin DIN to 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 10 Feet

The Hosa MIDI Cable is a high-quality cable designed to connect MIDI devices. With its 5-pin discrete wiring, it is compatible with all MIDI standards, including SysEx. The nickel-plated plugs ensure rugged durability and efficient signal transfer, while the oxygen-free copper conductors enhance signal clarity. The cable also features an OFC spiral shield for effective EMI and RFI rejection and flexibility. With a length of 10 feet, it provides ample reach for your MIDI devices. Whether you're a musician, producer, or audio enthusiast, the Hosa MIDI Cable is a reliable choice for connecting your MIDI equipment and ensuring a seamless musical experience.

What We Like
High-quality signal transfer
Effective EMI and RFI rejection
Durable and reliable
#TOP 5

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
Ultra-thin, space-saving design
Universal compatibility
Durable connectors
Interference shielding
#TOP 6

Hosa MID-305BK MIDI Cable

MID305
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Hosa MID-305BK MIDI Cable Cover
Hosa MID-305BK 5-Pin DIN to 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 5 Feet

The Hosa MIDI Cable is designed to connect your MIDI devices seamlessly. Its 5-pin discrete wiring ensures compatibility with all MIDI standards, including SysEx, making it versatile for various setups. The durable nickel-plated plugs provide ruggedness, ensuring a reliable connection that stands up to regular use. Additionally, the Oxygen-Free Copper conductors enhance signal clarity, allowing for crisp and clear audio transmission. With this cable, you can enjoy uninterrupted performance and optimal sound quality in your music production or live setups.

What We Like
Durable nickel-plated plugs
Compatible with all MIDI standards
Enhanced signal clarity
5-pin discrete wiring
#TOP 7

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
Compact design for tight spaces
High-speed, low-latency transmission
Durable for frequent use
Compatible with various devices

Cable Matters MIDI Splitter Cable

500081-BLK
Black
Cable Matters MIDI Splitter Cable Cover
Cable Matters 5-PIN DIN MIDI Splitter Cable (Dual MIDI Cable) - 0.5 Meters / 1.6 Feet

The Cable Matters MIDI Splitter Cable is a versatile solution for musicians and producers. With its dual 5 pin DIN to 5 pin DIN cable, it allows you to split one MIDI connection into two, making it ideal for duplicating MIDI signals to two devices. The cable is wired straight through to each of the two female connectors, ensuring reliable signal transmission. The superior construction of the DIN cables includes a keyed 5 pin DIN connector with easy-grip treads and molded strain-relief on each end, providing durability and longevity. Its flexible and portable design makes it easy to use in the studio and coil up when not in use with a portable MIDI keyboard. Whether you're in a studio, home recording studio, or on the road, the Cable Matters MIDI Splitter Cable is a reliable and convenient tool for connecting multiple MIDI devices.

What We Like
Versatile
Durable construction
Portable design
#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
Dual functionality
Easy to connect
Durable construction
Reduces cable clutter
#TOP 10

EMK 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable

EMK
LSMD5001
Blue
3.3Feet/1m
EMK 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable Cover
EMK 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable Male to Male Midi Cables Compatible with MIDI Keyboard/Synthesizer/Guitar Multi Effects/Audio Interface/Audio Mixer/Audio Amplifier/External Sound Card (3.3Feet/1m)

The EMK MIDI Cable offers excellent compatibility with various musical devices, allowing you to connect MIDI keyboards, synthesizers, and more without hassle. You’ll enjoy reliable audio transmission thanks to its solid 5-pin connection, which ensures your setup remains stable during performances or recordings. The cable's premium materials, including a durable nylon jacket, provide flexibility and protect against wear and tear. Additionally, its design helps minimize interference, ensuring clear sound quality with no delays. This makes it a great choice for musicians looking to enhance their setup.

What We Like
Wide device compatibility
Stable audio transmission
Durable construction
Minimized signal interference
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do MIDI cables have 5 pins?

Since electronic musical instruments already feature a number of plugs and connections, MIDI specifies one that wasn't commonly in use at the time: the circular 5-pin DIN connector. A unique connector was selected so things couldn't be misconnected.

2. Is a 5-pin DIN cable the same as a MIDI cable?

Simple answer: NO, a "DIN cable" is NOT the same as a "MIDI cable" unless you can prove it. Since there is no simple definition for "DIN cable" this doesn't work as a generic question. I know what the OP means, and it's basically the same cable, but was used long before the MIDI protocol was written.

3. What is a 5-pin cable used for?

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) cables are used in the transfer of digital information between musical devices, a keyboard or sequencer for example. Digital information is easier to preserve in signal transfer than analog....5 pin Active MIDI Cable.

4. Can you go MIDI to XLR?

MIDI can be transmitted through XLR cables and connectors with pretty much the same degree of effectiveness as the MIDI DIN connectors.

Editor's Notes

During our 5-pin midi cable research, we found 24 5-pin midi cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 39,886 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 5-pin midi cables list. We found that most customers choose 5-pin midi cables with an average price of $11.24.

The 5-pin midi cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 5-pin midi cables, including Cable Matters, Monoprice, Mellbree, HOSA, CME. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 6,066 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.