Best MIDI Controllers with Software of 2026

The AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a 25 key USB MIDI keyboard controller that is ideal for music production, virtual synthesizer control, and beat production. It features 8 backlit drum pads, 8 knobs, and an innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control. Additionally, it has an arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range, and modes. This all-in-one music production starter kit includes MPC Beats, 6 virtual instruments, and 2GB of sound content.

The Akai MPK Mini IV is a compact MIDI keyboard designed for music makers of all levels. It features 25 mini keys that respond to your touch, perfect for playing melodies or triggering samples with ease. The controller includes eight knobs that you can assign to adjust sounds or effects in real time, helping you shape your music without using a mouse. You also get eight pressure-sensitive drum pads with colorful lights, ideal for finger drumming and adding rhythm to your tracks. Plus, it comes with a large collection of virtual instruments and sounds, so you have everything you need to start creating music right away.

The AKAI Professional MPK Mini Play MK3 is a compact yet powerful standalone mini keyboard with built-in speaker and USB MIDI Controller capabilities, perfect for beat makers, songwriters and musicians. It features a 25-Key Gen 2 MPK Mini dynamic keybed, OLED display, 8 velocity-sensitive backlit MPC drum pads, arpeggiator and note repeat, plus 4 encoder knobs, delivering a professional, versatile performance. With over 100 internal drum and instrument sounds, including acoustic and electric pianos, synth leads, and more, the MPK Mini Play MK3 is perfect for limitless creativity. The product also includes MPC Beats and MPC expansion packs, as well as software instruments Mini Grand, Hybrid and Velvet from AIR Music Tech. Additionally, the Melodics educational software download is included with 60 free lessons and plug and play support for instruction on MIDI keyboards, pad controllers and e-drums.

The Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is a USB-powered MIDI keyboard controller that provides full creative control with its dynamic 37-key MPK Mini keybed, advanced connectivity with CV/Gate and MIDI I/O, and built-in 64-step sequencer with one track for drums and one for melodies or chords. It also features 8 premium RGB MPC pads, 8 assignable rotary knobs, and a transport section for intuitive hardware control of your DAW. Additionally, it comes with MPC Beats software for powerful beat making and music creation.

The Donner STARRYPAD MIDI Pad Beat Maker is a versatile midi drum pad controller that offers a range of features to enhance your music production experience. With 16 soft silicone backlit pads, you can easily trigger drums, samples, effects, and more. The pads are customizable, allowing you to assign different functions to suit your needs. Additionally, the STARRYPAD comes with adjustable velocity sensitivity curves, giving you precise control over your playing dynamics. The controller also features 2 faders, 2 knobs, and 3 buttons for added control and customization. The compatibility of the STARRYPAD is impressive, working with Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows devices. Whether you're a beginner or a professional music maker, the Donner STARRYPAD MIDI Pad Beat Maker is a powerful tool that will boost your rhythm game and take your music production to the next level.

The AKAI Professional LPK25 MIDI Keyboard Controller features 25 responsive mini keys that offer expressive songwriting, composing, jamming, and playing melodies, bass lines, and more. It is equipped with octave up and down buttons and a sustain button for full-range experience. The built-in arpeggiator and clock provide creative control of sound sources, while the 8 programmable preset slots allow for customized production. The LPK25 is compatible with popular applications, easy to set up, and perfect for versatile performance.

The Donner DMK 25 Pro is a versatile MIDI keyboard controller designed for creativity and ease of use. It connects to your computer or mobile device, allowing you to create music effortlessly. With its smart dynamic scale mode, you can easily play various musical genres. The real-time multi-mode control features, including arpeggio and note repeat, let you craft music clips anywhere. Additionally, the personalized touch bar enhances your performance by providing intuitive control over pitch and modulation, making your musical experience feel more dynamic and engaging.

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.

The Donner N-25 MIDI Keyboard is a compact and portable MIDI controller that features 25 mini velocity-sensitive keys. It is designed to help you create melodies and riffs full of emotion. The layout of the keyboard is user-friendly, making it easy for novice users to learn. It comes with useful functions such as an arpeggiator, sustain, octave, and tap tempo, which can assist musicians with limited music theory backgrounds. The MIDI keyboard is compatible with Mac, iOS, PC, iPhone, and iPad, allowing you to easily connect it to your devices. It also features a multifunctional pitch-bend wheel and cool light-up buttons for a fun visual display. Additionally, the Donner N-25 MIDI Keyboard comes with 40 free keyboard-teaching courses, making it ideal for beginners who want to try arranging music. Overall, this MIDI keyboard offers a complete music production experience and is perfect for musicians of all levels.

The Arturia MiniLab 3 Keyboard Controller offers premium velocity-sensitive keys, 2 banks of 8 high quality pads with RGB backlighting, 8 rotary encoders, 4 sliders, and more. It is a portable and performance-ready keyboard controller that lets you control instruments, mute tracks, punch in your 8 pad drums, and adjust your 4 faders with a flow so fluid you'll forget you had a mouse. MiniLab 3 is perfect for recording, performing, or jamming with friends no matter where you are, and it also includes amazing software that offers thousands of world-class presets spanning dozens of timeless instruments.