Best 88 Keys MIDI Controllers of 2025

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

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88 keys MIDI controllers are a popular choice among musicians and producers looking for a full-sized keyboard with a range of features. These controllers typically offer a weighted or semi-weighted key action, allowing for a more realistic playing experience. They also often include a variety of knobs, faders, and buttons for controlling software instruments and effects. Many 88 keys MIDI controllers come with software bundles, providing users with a range of sounds to choose from. These controllers are a versatile tool for any musician or producer looking to add a keyboard to their setup.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover #TOP 1
M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Nektar Impact LX88+ MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover #TOP 2
Nektar Impact LX88+ MIDI Controller Keyboard
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Nektar Impact GXP88 MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover #TOP 3
Nektar Impact GXP88 MIDI Controller Keyboard
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 88 Keys MIDI Controllers

#TOP 1

M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller

Keystation 88 MK3
Black
88 Keys
M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 – 88 Key Semi Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controller for Complete Command of Virtual Synthesizers and DAW parameters

The M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 is a MIDI keyboard controller that has 88 full-size velocity-sensitive semi weighted keys. It features volume fader, transport & directional buttons, pitch & modulation wheels, octave up & down buttons, and sustain pedal input. It is plug-and-play USB connectivity to Mac or PC, and compatible with iOS devices via the Apple to USB Camera Adapter (sold separately). It is also slimline design and comes with MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Mini Grand, and Velvet.

What We Like
88 full-size velocity-sensitive semi weighted keys
Plug-and-play USB connectivity
Compatible with iOS devices
Slimline design fits any desk, studio or stage setup
Comes with MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Mini Grand, and Velvet
#TOP 2

Nektar Impact LX88+ MIDI Controller Keyboard

Impact LX88+
Dark Grey
88 Keys
Nektar Impact LX88+ MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover
Nektar Impact LX88+ 88-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Nektar Impact LX88+ is a high-quality MIDI controller keyboard with features designed for performers and producers. It has 88 semi-weighted full-size synth-action velocity-sensitive keys, 8 back-lit hyper-sensitive drum pads, 9 faders, 8 knobs, 6 transport buttons, pitch bend, modulation + octave & transpose buttons + sustain pedal socket. It also includes the Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs with Mixer and Instrument modes, comprehensive MIDI functionality, and is compatible with all MIDI music software applications. Plus, it is compatible with Mac, PC and iOS, and includes Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package.

What We Like
88 full-size keys for tactile instrument control
Back-lit hyper-sensitive drum pads for easy and intuitive use
Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs with Mixer and Instrument modes, allowing for seamless workflow and control
Comprehensive MIDI functionality, making it compatible with all MIDI music software applications
Compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS, and includes Bigwig Studio 8-track DAW + sound content package for added convenience
#TOP 3

Nektar Impact GXP88 MIDI Controller Keyboard

GXP88
Black
88 Keys
Nektar Impact GXP88 MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover
Nektar Impact GXP88 88-Key Keyboard Controller

The Nektar Impact GXP88 is a high-quality MIDI controller keyboard with 88 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys that provide expressive performance. It features pitch bend and modulation wheels, octave and transpose buttons, and sustain and expression pedal sockets. The keyboard is compatible with all MIDI music software applications and can be used with Mac and PC. The Nektar Impact GXP88 also includes Cubase LE DAW, Retrologue 2 VSTi, and a sound content package. With Nektar DAW integration for most popular DAWs and Nektarine PlugIn Control for Instruments and Effects, this MIDI controller keyboard is a comprehensive tool for music production.

What We Like
88 premium quality semi-weighted full-size velocity sensitive keys + aftertouch
Comprehensive MIDI functionality for all MIDI music software applications
Compatible with both Mac and PC
#TOP 4

Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller Bundle

SP-2
Black
88 Keys
Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller Bundle Cover
Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller Beat Maker Bundle with 88 Keys and Sustain Pedal, Plus Software Suite

The Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller is a music production essential with 88 full-size semi-weighted keys, a volume fader, transport and directional buttons, pitch and modulation wheels, octave up and down buttons, and a sustain pedal input. It provides effortless plug-and-play USB connectivity to Mac or PC and is compatible with iOS devices via the Apple to USB Camera Adapter. The bundle also includes a universal sustain pedal with chrome foot pedal and a conveniently located polarity switch for compatibility with all electronic keyboards.

What We Like
88 full-size semi-weighted keys for expressive performances
Effortless plug-and-play USB connectivity for immediate creativity
Universal sustain pedal with chrome foot pedal for a natural, realistic pedal action
Conveniently located polarity switch for compatibility with all electronic keyboards
Premium build with a robust, heavy-duty mechanism for uncompromised reliability
#TOP 5

Studiologic SL88 Studio

bdb10a0d-8991-4321-81a3-92e331d38f87
Black
Studiologic SL88 Studio Cover
Studiologic SL88 Studio Lightweight Midi Controller with 88-Key Hammer Action Keyboard

The Studiologic SL88 Studio is a compact and lightweight MIDI controller designed for professional musicians. With its 88-key hammer action TP/100LR keyboard, this controller provides an authentic piano playing experience. The aftertouch feature adds expressiveness to your playing. The SL88 Studio offers 3 default velocity curves and 6 editable user velocity curves, allowing you to customize the keyboard response to suit your playing style. The razor-sharp color graphic LCD-TFT display provides clear visual feedback, while the 3 XY stick controllers offer real-time control. With the powerful software editor, you can easily program and customize the controller to your liking. The magnetic rail system of the SL88 Studio works seamlessly with the Studio logic Magnetic Computer Plate and Magnetic Music Stand, providing a convenient and integrated solution for your music production needs.

What We Like
88-key hammer action keyboard
Compact and lightweight
Customizable velocity curves

Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Keyboard Controller

Keylab 88 II
White Version
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII 88 Key Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller — Aftertouch, Velocity Sensitive, Hammer-Action, Piano Feel, With 16 Drum Pads, 9 Faders, 9 Knobs and Analog Lab V Software Included

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Keyboard Controller features an 88 note Fatar TP/100LR keybed with high-quality aftertouch, velocity sensitivity, hammer-action, and piano feel. It includes 16 RGB-backlit performance pads, and a control bank with 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs. This MIDI controller does not include a stand and is perfect for musicians and producers looking to create music or perform live.

What We Like
Realistic piano feel with hammer-action and high-quality keys
Ample control options with 16 performance pads, 9 faders, and 9 knobs
Includes Analog Lab V software for added functionality and creativity
#TOP 7

Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller

AMS-LAUNCHKEY-88-MK3
Black
88-Key
Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] - premium 88-note MIDI keyboard for expressive music creation

The Novation Launchkey 88 [MK3] MIDI Keyboard Controller for Ableton Live features 88 premium semi-weighted keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads, enabling users to play with feeling. It offers seamless DAW integration with immediate access to all the controls needed, a powerful arpeggiator with Strum Mode, and creative Scale and Chord Modes with three chord modes (fixed, scale, and user) allowing users to trigger chords with one finger. Additionally, users can play anything by using Custom Modes and the MIDI output to take control of their favorite synths and hardware.

What We Like
Premium full size keybed with 88 semi-weighted keys and 16 velocity-sensitive pads
Seamless DAW integration across all leading DAWs with immediate access to controls
Powerful arpeggiator with Strum Mode for new melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic ideas
#TOP 8

Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII

Keylab 88 II
Black
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII Cover
Arturia - KeyLab 88 MkII - 88-Key MIDI and Modular Controller for Music Production - Expressive Piano-Weighted Keybed, 16 Pads, 9 Faders, 9 Knobs - Software Included (Black)

The Arturia 88 MkII is an 88-note USB MIDI keyboard controller with aftertouch, which comes with Analog Lab software for both Mac and Windows. It features 16 RGB performance pads, CV/Gate connectivity, and a DAW Comm Center. With the aftertouch, you can add more expression to your playing, and the Analog Lab software provides you with over 6000 presets from their award-winning V Collection. The 16 RGB performance pads allow you to trigger clips, play drums, and launch loops. The CV/Gate connectivity enables you to control your modular synthesizers, and the DAW Comm Center makes it easy to switch between your DAW and other software. Overall, the Arturia 88 MkII offers a comprehensive solution for MIDI control, software integration, and hardware connectivity.

What We Like
Aftertouch
16 RGB pads
Analog Lab software
#TOP 9

Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Controller

230642
Black
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Controller Cover
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII 88-key Weighted Keyboard Controller with Wooden Legs

The Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Controller bundle includes the Wooden Legs for KeyLab 88 MkII and features an 88 note Fatar TP/100LR keybed with high-quality, aftertouch, velocity sensitive, hammer-action, piano feel keyboard. It has 16 RGB-backlit performance pads, a control bank with 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs, and can control modular equipment with 4 CV/Gate outputs. It has seamless integration with all Arturia software instruments, presets for multiple DAWs, and huge connectivity including expression, sustain, CV/Gate, MIDI, USB and 3 assignable auxiliary pedal inputs.

What We Like
88-key Weighted Keyboard Controller
High-quality, piano feel keyboard with aftertouch and velocity sensitivity
16 RGB-backlit performance pads for triggering samples and loops
Control bank with 9 faders and 9 rotary knobs to adjust parameters
Seamless integration with all Arturia software instruments and presets for multiple DAWs
#TOP 10

Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 Keyboard Controller

KeyLab Essential 88 (MK2)
White
88 Keys
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 Keyboard Controller Cover
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88-88-Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 Keyboard Controller is a semi-weighted USB MIDI keyboard controller that comes with 88-note, velocity-sensitive keyboard, 8 pads, 9 rotary knobs, and 9 faders. It features Arturia's multi-award-winning software suite, Analog Lab, offering access to thousands of synth and keyboard sounds. It can be used with any third-party instruments or software, making it a universal MIDI controller. Every aspect of the KeyLab Essential has been carefully chosen to provide the best possible experience while creating music.

What We Like
Semi-weighted 88-note keyboard
Comes with Analog Lab software suite
Universal MIDI controller
8 pads, 9 rotary knobs, and 9 faders
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do you need an 88 key MIDI controller?

If you want to play piano pieces or compose music with a piano, having an 88 key MIDI controller is recommended. However, 49 keys can be considered as a minimum for piano composition, and 61 keys or above are more versatile options.

2. Is there a MIDI controller with weighted keys?

Yes, there are MIDI controllers with weighted keys, such as the M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro. Weighted keys provide a piano-like feel and are suitable for those who want to replicate the touch and sensitivity of playing an acoustic piano.

3. What is the difference between 61 and 88 keys MIDI controller?

In terms of versatility, an 88-key MIDI controller offers more range and allows you to play over 7 ¼ octaves, compared to the 5 octaves provided by a 61-key controller. 61-key controllers are more space-efficient, but if you want to play with more expression and have a wider range for your compositions, an 88-key controller is recommended.

4. How do I choose a MIDI controller?

When choosing a MIDI controller, consider factors such as the number and types of inputs and outputs, the availability of faders, knobs, and buttons for various purposes, the key action and types of keys, the presence of pads, and additional features like pitch bend/modulation wheels and aftertouch.

5. Should a beginner get an 88 key keyboard?

While 88-key keyboards are the best choice for students planning to learn traditional piano, beginners can still learn and practice on a simpler 66-key instrument.

6. Are weighted keys worth it?

Yes, weighted keys are worth it, especially for beginners who want to mimic the touch and sensitivity of playing an acoustic piano. Weighted keys provide a more realistic and expressive playing experience, allowing for different levels of control.

7. Should I get a 61 key or 88-key?

For most contemporary songs that don't require more than 5 octaves, a 61-key MIDI controller should be sufficient. However, if you are primarily focused on classical music, it is recommended to consider a traditional 88-key keyboard for a wider range and versatility.

Editor's Notes

During our 88 keys midi controller research, we found 24 88 keys midi controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,872 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 88 keys midi controllers list. We found that most customers choose 88 keys midi controllers with an average price of $471.99.

The 88 keys midi controllers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 88 keys midi controllers, including M-Audio, Nektar, Studiologic, ARTURIA, Novation. 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.