Best 49 Keys MIDI Controllers of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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49 Keys MIDI Controllers are a popular choice among musicians and producers who desire a compact and versatile MIDI keyboard. These controllers typically feature 49 velocity-sensitive keys, as well as additional controls such as pitch and modulation wheels, octave buttons, and assignable knobs and faders. They are often USB-powered and compatible with a range of software and hardware instruments, making them ideal for home studios and live performances. 49 Keys MIDI Controllers are available from various manufacturers, with different models offering unique features and designs to suit different preferences and budgets.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover #TOP 1
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Nektar SE49 Cover #TOP 2
Nektar SE49
ftb score rating icon 9.8
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover #TOP 3
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 49 Keys MIDI Controllers

M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller

Keystation 49 MK3
Black
49 Keys
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 - Synth Action 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Assignable Controls, Pitch and Mod Wheels, and Software Included

The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller is the perfect tool for musicians and producers who need a compact, yet versatile keyboard. With 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys, assignable controls, pitch and mod wheels, and easy plug-and-play connectivity to your Mac, PC, or iOS device, you'll be able to capture every subtle nuance of your performance and take total control of your software. Plus, the premium software suite included in the package will help you unleash your creativity right out of the box.

What We Like
Full-size velocity-sensitive keys for a natural feel
Assignable controls and pitch/mod wheels for total control of your software
Easy plug-and-play connectivity to your Mac, PC, or iOS device
Compact design fits any desk, studio, or stage setup perfectly
Premium software suite included for immediate creativity
#TOP 2

Nektar SE49

SE49
Black
49 Keys
Nektar SE49 Cover
Nektar, 49-Key Midi Controller (SE49),Black white Grey

The Nektar SE49 is a 49-key MIDI controller that provides all the features and expressive control you need to start making music with your computer. With Nektar DAW integration, it seamlessly works with the most popular DAWs, allowing you to easily control your music software. It also offers comprehensive MIDI functionality, making it compatible with all MIDI music software applications. Whether you use a Mac, PC, or iOS device, the Nektar SE49 is compatible. Additionally, it comes with Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW and a sound content package, giving you everything you need to get started. With its affordable price and amazing value for money, the Nektar SE49 is the perfect MIDI controller for beginners and professionals alike.

What We Like
Expressive control
Seamless DAW integration
Comprehensive MIDI functionality
#TOP 3

M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller

Oxygen Pro 49
black
49 Keys
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 – 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads, MIDI assignable Knobs, Buttons & Faders and Software Suite Included

The M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller offers 49 velocity-sensitive keys with assignable zones, 16 backlit drum pads, 8 assignable knobs & buttons, 9 assignable faders, pitch & modulation wheels, and more for tactile MIDI control of virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAW controls, and more. It also includes a complete software production package with MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, virtual instruments, and MPC Expansion packs.

What We Like
Velocity-sensitive keys with assignable zones
Backlit drum pads for beat production and clip launching
Assignable knobs, buttons, and faders for tactile control

Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3

KeyLab Essential mk3 49 White
White
49 Key
Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 Cover
Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

The Arturia KeyLab Essential is a 49-key USB MIDI keyboard controller that comes with the Analog Lab V software. It offers new creative features like Scale Mode, Chord Mode, and Arpeggiator, which enhance composition, songwriting, and beat-making. With custom DAW integration, it provides deeper control over popular DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and FL Studio. The KeyLab Essential also includes 2000 versatile presets in Analog Lab V, ranging from vintage sounds to modern synths and orchestral sounds. Its RGB-backlit pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, contextual buttons, and a 2.5” LCD screen offer easier controls and real-time feedback. Additionally, it comes with an expanded software package that includes Analog Lab V, two pianos, and subscriptions to Loopcloud and Melodics.

What We Like
New creative features
Custom DAW integration
Versatile presets
#TOP 5

Novation Launchkey 49 MK4

AMS-LAUNCHKEY-49-MK4
Black
Novation Launchkey 49 MK4 Cover
Novation Launchkey 49 [MK4] – 49 key Semi-Weighted, USB, MIDI Keyboard Controller with DAW Integration. Chord & Scale Modes, 8 Drum Pads, & Arpeggiator — Includes Software Bundle for Music Production

The Novation Launchkey 49 is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller designed for seamless integration with major DAWs. You can enjoy an intuitive workflow, making music production easier than ever. The responsive FSR drum pads are not just for finger drumming; they also allow you to launch clips and create unique sequences. With the included software bundle, you have everything you need to start producing music right away. Plus, features like Scale Mode help you avoid wrong notes while enabling you to create complex chords and arpeggios effortlessly.

What We Like
Intuitive DAW integration
Responsive FSR drum pads
Includes software bundle
Scale Mode for easy chords
#TOP 6

Nektar Impact GX49 MIDI Controller Keyboard

GX49
Black
49 Keys
Nektar Impact GX49 MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover
Nektar Impact GX49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Nektar Impact GX49 MIDI Controller Keyboard is a versatile keyboard that is compatible with all MIDI software. It features 49 full-size synth-action keys, pitch bend and modulation wheels, octave and transpose buttons, and a sustain pedal socket. It offers excellent quality and value for money, and comes with comprehensive MIDI functionality. Additionally, it is compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS, and includes the Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW and sound content package. The Nektar DAW integration also makes it easy to use with most popular DAWs, making it a great choice for musicians and producers of all levels.

What We Like
Compatible with all MIDI software applications.
Comprehensive MIDI functionality.
Comes with Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW and sound content package.
Mac, PC and iOS Compatible.
Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs.

M-Audio Oxygen 49 (MKV) - 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Oxygen 49 MKV
Black
49 Keys
M-Audio Oxygen 49 (MKV) - 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
M-Audio Oxygen 49 (MKV) – 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads, Smart Chord & Scale Modes, Arpeggiator and Software Suite Included

The M-Audio Oxygen 49 (MKV) is a MIDI controller that is essential for recording studio equipment. It features 49 velocity-sensitive full-size piano style keys that deliver a natural response to virtual sampler & synthesizer plugins. The controller includes 2 banks of 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat, 8 assignable knobs, and 9 assignable faders for tactile MIDI control. It also comes with Smart Chord & Smart Scale modes, an Arpeggiator, pitch & mod wheels, and a sustain pedal input. The package includes MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, 2 virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech, and 5 Akai Professional MPC Expansion packs.

What We Like
49 velocity-sensitive full-size piano style keys
2 banks of 8 backlit velocity-sensitive drum pads with Note Repeat
Smart Chord & Smart Scale modes, Arpeggiator, pitch & mod wheels, and a sustain pedal input

Nektar Impact GXP49

GXP49
Black
49 Keys
Nektar Impact GXP49 Cover
Nektar Impact GXP49 49-Key Keyboard Controller

The Nektar GXP49 is a high-quality MIDI controller keyboard designed for expressive performance. It features 49 semi-weighted full-size velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch, allowing you to play with precision and sensitivity. The pitch bend and modulation wheels, along with octave and transpose buttons, offer additional control and flexibility. The GXP49 also includes sustain and expression pedal sockets, as well as a MIDI 5-pin Out for connecting to other MIDI devices. With Nektar DAW integration for popular DAWs and Nektarine PlugIn Control for Instruments and Effects, this controller offers comprehensive MIDI functionality. Compatible with both Mac and PC, it comes bundled with Cubase LE DAW, Retrologue 2 VSTi, and a sound content package. The Nektar GXP49 is the perfect tool for musicians and producers looking for a versatile and intuitive MIDI controller.

What We Like
Expressive performance
Comprehensive MIDI functionality
Mac and PC compatible
#TOP 9

midiplus AK490

AK490
White
49-Key
midiplus AK490 Cover
midiplus AK490 MIDI Keyboard Controller

The midiplus AK490 MIDI Keyboard Controller is a 49-note velocity sensitive piano style key master keyboard. It features a pitch wheel and modulation wheel, allowing you to add expression to your playing. The octave buttons (Up & Down) provide easy access to different octaves, expanding the range of your performance. With a MIDI out Din Jack, you can connect the keyboard to other MIDI devices, making it versatile for studio and live performances. The sustain switch jack allows you to connect a sustain pedal (not included), further enhancing your playing experience. The keyboard comes with an owner's manual and a USB cable for easy setup and use.

What We Like
49-note velocity sensitive keys
Pitch and modulation wheels
Octave buttons for easy octave switching
#TOP 10

Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3

KeyLab Essential mk3 49 Alpine White
Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 mk3 Cover
Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 — 49 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller with Analog Lab V Software Included

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller designed for modern music producers. Its sleek, limited-edition white design not only looks great but also enhances your creative space. With colorful RGB pads, you can easily trigger sounds and create dynamic beats. The controller offers comprehensive workflow features, allowing you to manage your DAW projects seamlessly, while the included Analog Lab V software provides access to a vast library of synth sounds and instruments. This combination makes it easier for you to compose catchy melodies and intricate rhythms effortlessly.

What We Like
Premium design and build
Colorful RGB pads
Comprehensive workflow features
Includes powerful music software
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is 49 keys enough for a MIDI controller?

The most popular size for MIDI controllers is 49 keys -- big enough to play two-handed, but not too big to fit on your studio desk. Most compact keyboard controllers have octave buttons that let you scroll up and down to access the piano's full 88-key range.

2. Is a 49 key keyboard good enough?

Although you can get two hands on a 49-key keyboard, it is limiting for a lot of songs, even pop songs that don't rely on using a big range and advanced techniques. Whether 49-keys is enough for your own needs comes down to personal opinion. If you just want to play a few chords, you might find that 49-keys is plenty.

3. How many keys should I get on my MIDI controller?

A MIDI controller needs at least 25 keys, or two octaves, to be useful. The average number of keys is 49, or four octaves. However, the type of music you play, whether you need your controller to be portable, and how much space you have in your studio will impact how many keys are right for you.

Editor's Notes

During our 49 keys midi controller research, we found 24 49 keys midi controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 37,776 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 49 keys midi controllers list. We found that most customers choose 49 keys midi controllers with an average price of $232.25.

The 49 keys midi controllers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 49 keys midi controllers, including M-Audio, Nektar, ARTURIA, Novation, Midiplus. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.