Best Aftertouch MIDI Controllers of 2025

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

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

Aftertouch MIDI controllers are a type of electronic musical instrument that allow the player to manipulate the sound of their instrument in real time. Aftertouch refers to the pressure that a player can apply to a key after it has been pressed down, and this pressure can be used to control a variety of different parameters such as vibrato, volume, or filter cutoff. With an Aftertouch MIDI controller, musicians can add a level of expressiveness and nuance to their playing that was previously impossible with traditional instruments. These controllers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small keyboard controllers to larger, more complex instruments that can be played like a guitar or drum kit.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover #TOP 1
Arturia KeyLab 88 MkII MIDI Keyboard Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.8
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover #TOP 2
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 MIDI Keyboard Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Behringer SWING 32-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with 64-Step Sequencer Cover #TOP 3
Behringer SWING 32-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with 64-Step Sequencer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Aftertouch MIDI Controllers

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

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
#TOP 3

Behringer SWING 32-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with 64-Step Sequencer

SWING
Black
Behringer SWING 32-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with 64-Step Sequencer Cover
Behringer SWING 32-Key USB MIDI Controller Keyboard with 64-Step Sequencer

The Behringer SWING MIDI Controller is a compact-sized keyboard with 32 velocity-sensitive keys that offer expressive playing. It features a 64-step sequencer with 8-note polyphony, allowing for intricate and dynamic sequences. The Chord Play mode enables users to create extensive loops and play long samples with up to 16 notes. The Arpeggiator mode offers 8 simultaneous notes per step and 8 styles, adding depth and complexity to your compositions. The highly reactive pitch and modulation touch strips provide precise control and enhance performance. With its versatile performance controls, including Record, Play, and Stop buttons, the SWING MIDI Controller offers seamless control over the sequencer and arpeggiator. Whether you're a beginner or a professional musician, this MIDI controller provides a range of features to enhance your creativity and inspire new musical ideas.

What We Like
Compact-sized keyboard
64-step sequencer with 8-note polyphony
Chord Play mode for extensive loops
#TOP 4

Xkey 37 Air MIDI Keyboard

Artesia
Xkey 37 Air
Silver
37 keys
Xkey 37 Air MIDI Keyboard Cover
Xkey 37 Air Bluetooth MIDI Keyboard - Apple-Style Ultra-Thin Aluminum Frame, 37 Full-Size Velocity-Sensitive Keys, Polyphonic Aftertouch, Ultra-Low Latency, Simply Plug & Play on iPad, iPhone, Mac, PC

The Xkey 37 Air Bluetooth MIDI Keyboard offers an exceptional playing experience with its 37 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys that respond to your touch, allowing for nuanced performances. Its ultra-low latency ensures that you can create music wirelessly without any delay, making it perfect for on-the-go musicians. The ultra-thin design, made from durable aluminum, makes it easy to transport, weighing less than 2 lbs. With plug-and-play functionality, connecting to various devices like iPads and PCs is seamless, enabling you to start making music right away.

What We Like
Ultra-thin and lightweight
Full-size, responsive keys
Seamless wireless connection
Easy plug-and-play setup
#TOP 5

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 6

Muse Kinetics QuNexus Galaxy Keyboard

Muse Kinetics
M-708G
Muse Kinetics QuNexus Galaxy Keyboard Cover
Muse Kinetics QuNexus Galaxy | 25 Key USB MIDI MPE CV Keyboard Controller, 3-Track Step Sequencer/Arpeggiator with Polyphonic Aftertouch and Selectable Per-Note Modulation

The Muse Kinetics Controller offers an impressive range of features to enhance your music-making experience. The touch-sensitive keys respond to your playing style, allowing you to express yourself with velocity and polyphonic aftertouch. This means you can add depth and nuance to your performances. With its three-track sequencer and arpeggiator, you can easily create complex rhythms and melodies, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different musical ideas. Additionally, the device provides various connectivity options, including USB-C MIDI and CV outputs, making it convenient to integrate into your existing setup.

#TOP 7

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 Keyboard Controller

NA-970
White
49 Keys
Arturia KeyLab MkII 49 Keyboard Controller Cover
Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII - 49 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Arturia KeyLab MkII is a luxurious and expressive MIDI controller that offers unsurpassed connectivity, effortless integration, customizable interface and inspiring included software. This versatile studio controller features dynamic performance and studio controls, including a high-quality 49-note keyboard with aftertouch, 16 RGB backlit pads, 9 faders, 9 rotary knobs and dedicated DAW and transport controls. The KeyLab MkII is encased in durable, tour-ready aluminum and decked out with wiggle-free knobs and faders, making it a reliable controller designed from the ground up to not let you down. Additionally, the KeyLab MkII comes complete with thousands of sounds in 3 incredible software titles - Analog Lab, Piano V, and Ableton Live Lite - and works seamlessly with them to let you create music without barriers. Say hello to your ideal creative companion for the studio and stage.

What We Like
Luxurious
Versatile
Customizable interface

Novation Impulse MIDI Controller Keyboard

AMS-IMPULSE-61
Grey/Red
medium
Novation Impulse MIDI Controller Keyboard Cover
Novation Impulse 61 Keys USB bus-powered MIDI Controller Keyboard – Robust, ultra-responsive, full-size piano keyboard with aftertouch and velocity-sensitive pads – works on Mac or Windows

The Novation Impulse MIDI Controller Keyboard is a robust and ultra-responsive 61-keys USB bus-powered keyboard that is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems. It features an ultra-responsive semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch, full DAW/plug-in control surface with 8 knobs, 9 faders and buttons, and multi-function drum pads that allow you to warp arpeggios, roll beats, and launch clips in Ableton Live. The Automap 4 control software enables instant hands-on access to your DAW and plug-ins. The package includes Ableton Live Lite, Novation's Bass Station Synth, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, and a Loop masters sample pack.

What We Like
Ultra-responsive semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch
Full DAW/plug-in control surface with 8 knobs, 9 faders and buttons
Multi-function drum pads enable warping arpeggios, rolling beats and launching clips in Ableton Live
#TOP 9

Arturia KeyLab MkII 49-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

NA-970
Black
49 Keys
Arturia KeyLab MkII 49-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller Cover
Arturia KeyLab 49 MkII - 49 Key Semi Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller (Black)

The Arturia KeyLab MkII 49-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller is a versatile studio controller that seamlessly integrates with your DAW, virtual instruments, hardware, and modular gear. It features a 49-note keyboard with aftertouch, 16 RGB backlit pads, 9 faders, 9 rotary knobs, and dedicated DAW and transport controls. The controller is constructed with durable, tour-ready aluminum and has wiggle-free knobs and faders. It comes with thousands of sounds in 3 software titles - Analog Lab, Piano V, and Ableton Live Lite - and works seamlessly with them, making it an ideal creative companion for the studio and stage.

What We Like
Dynamic performance and studio controls
Durable construction with wiggle-free knobs and faders
Comes with thousands of sounds in 3 software titles
#TOP 10

Vangoa MIDI Pad Beat Maker

C2000057
Black
Vangoa MIDI Pad Beat Maker Cover
Vangoa Beat Maker Machine with 16 RGB Pads, Wireless USB Midi Velocity Drum Pad Controller 8 Knobs, Aftertouch Beating Machine with Note Repeat for Music Production Beginners, Daw, Mac, PC, Ipad

The Vangoa Beat Maker offers an exciting entry into music production. With 16 touch-sensitive RGB pads, you can craft vibrant beats that respond to your every move, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned musicians. The aftertouch technology allows you to add expressive details to your tracks, enhancing your creativity. Additionally, the note repeat function lets you easily transform simple rhythms into intricate patterns, giving you the freedom to experiment and discover new sounds. This portable device is designed for convenience, allowing you to create music anywhere, anytime.

What We Like
Responsive RGB pads
Aftertouch technology
Note repeat function
Portable design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does MIDI support aftertouch?

Polyphonic Aftertouch is the only MIDI parameter that allowed for independent control over the timbre of a single note over its whole duration already since the establishment of the MIDI standard in the 1980ies. It is however only implemented into a handful of synths.

2. Does MIDI keyboard need aftertouch?

So, to emulate a real piano with samples on your controller, aftertouch is not needed. It's velocity that's important here. Some real clavichords can use aftertouch technique, where the extra pressure on the key can produce a very gentle pitch vibrato.

3. How does MIDI aftertouch work?

Aftertouch is MIDI data sent when pressure is applied to a keyboard after the key has been struck and while it is being held down or sustained. Aftertouch is often routed to control vibrato, volume, and other parameters.

Editor's Notes

During our aftertouch midi controller research, we found 24 aftertouch midi controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 15,767 customer reviews through our big data system to write the aftertouch midi controllers list. We found that most customers choose aftertouch midi controllers with an average price of $268.16.

The aftertouch midi controllers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aftertouch midi controllers, including ARTURIA, M-Audio, Behringer, Artesia, Nektar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 908 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.