Best Workstation Keyboards of 2025

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Workstation keyboards are designed for professionals who require high level of precision and control in their work. These keyboards are built with features such as programmable keys, customizable backlighting, and macro recording capabilities, allowing users to streamline their workflow and improve efficiency. They are also designed for comfort, with ergonomic shapes and wrist rests to reduce strain during long hours of use. Workstation keyboards come in a variety of sizes and styles, from compact models to full-sized keyboards with number pads. They are ideal for graphic designers, video editors, programmers, and anyone who demands top-notch performance from their keyboard.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

AKAI MPC Key 37 Workstation Cover #TOP 1
AKAI MPC Key 37 Workstation
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Yamaha PSR-SX720 Workstation Bundle Cover #TOP 2
Yamaha PSR-SX720 Workstation Bundle
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Korg NAUTILUS61 Cover #TOP 3
Korg NAUTILUS61
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Workstation Keyboards

#TOP 1

AKAI MPC Key 37 Workstation

MPCKEY37XEUK
AKAI MPC Key 37 Workstation Cover
AKAI Professional MPC Key 37 Standalone Production Workstation, Drum Machine, MIDI Keyboard, Synthesizer with WiFi, Bluetooth, Touchscreen, Plug-ins

The AKAI MPC Key 37 is a versatile standalone music production workstation that allows you to create without needing a computer. With its powerful multi-core processor and 37-note synth-action keybed, you can easily produce music on-the-go. The inclusion of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth MIDI means you can connect effortlessly to other devices and software. Plus, with the MPC2 software supporting up to 128 audio tracks, you have the flexibility to use nearly unlimited plugin instruments. This makes it an essential tool for anyone looking to enhance their music-making experience.

What We Like
Standalone operation
Multiple connectivity options
Supports numerous plugins
Touchscreen interface
#TOP 2

Yamaha PSR-SX720 Workstation Bundle

PSRSX720Bn1
Yamaha PSR-SX720 Workstation Bundle Cover
Yamaha PSR-SX720 61-key Arranger Workstation Essentials Bundle

The Yamaha PSR-SX720 Bundle is an impressive 61-key arranger workstation designed to enhance your musical creativity. Featuring a synth-action keyboard, it allows for smooth playing and expression. The joystick controller adds versatility, enabling you to manipulate sounds easily. With a 16-track song recorder, you can layer your performances and create complex compositions effortlessly. Additionally, the real-time control knobs let you adjust settings on the fly, making it convenient for live performances or studio sessions. This bundle is perfect for musicians looking to elevate their sound and workflow.

What We Like
Synth-action keyboard
16-track song recorder
Real-time control knobs
Versatile joystick controller

Korg NAUTILUS61

NAUTILUS61
Black
Korg NAUTILUS61 Cover
Korg Workstation Keyboard (NAUTILUS61) Black

The Korg Workstation Keyboard, known as the NAUTILUS61, offers nine powerful sound engines and top-notch effects to explore a wide range of sounds. With its modern user interface, you can easily access thousands of fantastic sounds. The keyboard actions on the NAUTILUS models provide a semi-weighted synth action for the 61 and 73-key versions, while the 88-key version offers a premium four-stage weighted hammer action for a realistic piano playing experience. The intuitive Set List Mode allows you to organize your sounds or sequences for performances, enabling quick access during live shows.

What We Like
Powerful sound engines
Modern user interface
Premium keyboard actions
#TOP 4

Roland FANTOM-8

FANTOM-8
Black
88 Keys
Roland FANTOM-8 Cover
Roland FANTOM-8 Music Workstation 88-key Semi-weighted Synthesizer Keyboard

The Roland FANTOM-8 Keyboard is an 88-key semi-weighted synthesizer that offers a seamless workflow and a wide range of authentic electronic and acoustic sounds. With its acclaimed 88-note weighted keyboard and aftertouch, you can enjoy a realistic playing experience with expressive control. The expandable sound engine allows you to create fresh hybrid sounds by combining modern PCM, virtual analog, and a routable analog filter. Additionally, the V-piano technology provides stunning realism and expression. The FANTOM-8 Keyboard also comes with a limited edition T-shirt and product registration for added value. Whether you're a professional musician or an aspiring artist, this keyboard is designed to enhance your creativity and deliver exceptional performance.

What We Like
Seamless workflow
Authentic electronic and acoustic sounds
Realistic playing experience
#TOP 5

Roland JUNO-D6 Synthesizer

JUNO-D6
Roland JUNO-D6 Synthesizer Cover
Roland JUNO-D6 Synthesizer | 61-Note Keyboard with Synth Action | ZEN-Core Engine with Over 3800 Onboard Sounds | Intuitive Creative Tools | USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface for Mobile & Computers

The Roland JUNO-D6 Keyboard is designed for musicians who need a reliable and versatile instrument. It features a professional-quality sound engine with over 3,800 presets, giving you instant access to a wide range of sounds, from pianos to synths, perfect for live performances. The user-friendly design allows for quick navigation, making it easy to find your desired sounds. Plus, the ability to import your own WAV files lets you customize your music experience. With USB-C support, you can power the keyboard with a mobile battery, making it ideal for gigs on the go.

What We Like
Wide range of sounds
User-friendly interface
Custom sound import
Mobile battery power

Roland Synthesizer: FANTOM-06

FANTOM-06
Black
Roland Synthesizer: FANTOM-06 Cover
Roland Synthesizer (FANTOM-06),Black, 61-Key

The Roland FANTOM-06 synthesizer features a newly designed 61-note keyboard and combines the sonic power and fluid workflow of the top-of-the-line FANTOM series in a streamlined instrument that can go everywhere your inspiration takes you. It offers thousands of electronic and acoustic sounds powered by Roland's advanced ZEN-Core and SuperNATURAL technologies, including authentic acoustic grand sound and response, Virtual ToneWheel Organ with harmonic bar control and quick-fire playability, deep onboard sampling features, scenes with settings for all 16 layers plus effects and patterns, clip-based sequencing with instant pattern recording and triggering, and a TR-REC sequencer inspired by classic Roland drum machines. It also features a 4x32 USB audio interface and native integration with Logic Pro, MainStage, and Ableton Live.

What We Like
Deep onboard sampling features
New SuperNATURAL pianos with authentic acoustic grand sound and response
Virtual ToneWheel Organ with harmonic bar control and quick-fire playability
Clip-based sequencing with instant pattern recording and triggering
TR-REC sequencer inspired by classic Roland drum machines
#TOP 7

Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer Workstation

MODX8+
Black
88-Key
Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer Workstation Cover
Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer Workstation , Black

The Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer Workstation is a powerful and versatile instrument that combines a semi-weighted synth action keyboard with Yamaha's AWM2 and FM-X technologies. It also features Motion Control, a highly customizable synthesizer engine control matrix, and MODX OS, which adds new voices, live sets, and features. Customers have praised the MODX8+ for its incredible sound, light weight, and mix of vintage and new features.

What We Like
Semi-weighted synth action keyboard
AWM2 and FM-X technologies
Motion Control and MODX OS
Lightweight and great sound
Mix of vintage and new features
#TOP 8

Roland RD-2000 EX Digital Piano

RD-2000 EX
Roland RD-2000 EX Digital Piano Cover
Roland Premium Digital Stage Piano RD-2000 EX

The Roland RD-2000 EX is a premium digital stage piano designed to elevate your performance. It features two powerful sound engines that deliver rich, authentic tones, making it perfect for both studio work and live shows. With the advanced V-Piano modeling technology, you can enjoy a detailed sound that feels natural and immersive. Additionally, the SuperNATURAL sound engine offers 128-voice polyphony, ensuring you can layer sounds without losing quality. You’ll appreciate the real-time control provided by nine sliders and eight knobs, allowing you to easily adjust your sound on the fly.

What We Like
Authentic sound quality
Dual sound engines
Real-time control options
Expandable sound library
#TOP 9

KORG i3 Music Workstation Keyboard

I3MB
Black
KORG i3 Music Workstation Keyboard Cover
Korg, 61-Key Workstation Portable Keyboard (I3MB)

The KORG i3 Music Workstation Keyboard is a powerful and versatile tool for creating, composing, arranging and performing music. With 790 instrument sounds and 59 drum kits, the keyboard produces high-quality, layered sounds that can be customized or used with the on-board Style Performance Sound Sets. The 61 velocity sensitive keys have 3 touch curves, while the joystick allows real-time pitch bend, vibrato and brilliance during performance. The back-lit panel buttons and good-sized screen provide valuable feedback for all functions, and the convenient Grand Piano Sound button quickly returns the keyboard to the set-up sound.

What We Like
Produces high-quality and layered sounds
Allows customization of sounds
Provides real-time pitch bend, vibrato, and brilliance through joystick

AKAI Professional MPC Key 61

MPC Key 61
Black
MPC Key 61
AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 Cover
AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 - Standalone Music Production Synthesizer Keyboard with Touch Screen, 16 Drum Pads, 20+ Sound Engines, Semi Weighted Keys, black

The AKAI Professional MPC Key 61 is a standalone music production synthesizer keyboard with a 7” multi-touch display, 16 MPC pads, semi-weighted keys, and assignable Touch Strip. It features 20+ sound engines and over 6000 customizable sounds, making it the most modern-day sound pallet ever programmed in a production synthesizer. With high-speed data transfer via USB and network, as well as wireless software integration via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Link, the MPC Key 61 is the centerpiece of your recording studio.

What We Like
Standalone music production synthesizer keyboard with a 7” multi-touch display, 16 MPC pads, semi-weighted keys, and assignable Touch Strip
20+ sound engines and over 6000 customizable sounds, making it the most modern-day sound pallet ever programmed in a production synthesizer
High-speed data transfer via USB and network, as well as wireless software integration via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ableton Link
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a keyboard and a workstation keyboard?

The main difference between a keyboard and a workstation keyboard is the additional features and capabilities that a workstation offers. While a basic keyboard may have standard sounds, a workstation keyboard typically provides a wider range of synth sounds, effects, advanced patch editing, sequencing, and other music creation tools. Workstation keyboards are designed for professional use and offer more extensive functions for music production.

2. What are the types of computer keyboards?

There are several types of computer keyboards used for different purposes. These include QWERTY keyboards, gaming keyboards, virtual keyboards, and multimedia keyboards. Each type of keyboard is designed to cater to specific needs, such as gaming, general typing, multimedia control, or accessibility.

3. Why are workstations more expensive?

Workstations are generally more expensive than standard PCs due to their higher-quality components and advanced features. In the past, workstations were larger and heavier, adding to their cost. However, advancements in technology have allowed for the development of more compact and affordable workstations without compromising performance. Despite the reduced size and weight, workstations still offer robust capabilities and are built to withstand intensive use, contributing to their higher price tag.

4. Is a workstation faster than a laptop?

Workstations tend to be faster than laptops as they typically support more powerful CPUs, more memory modules, and larger hard drives. Additionally, the components used in workstations are often less expensive compared to those used in laptops. However, it's important to note that the speed and performance of a workstation can vary depending on the specific model and configuration.

5. What's the difference between a digital piano and a workstation?

The difference between a digital piano and a workstation lies in their primary focus and features. While digital pianos are designed primarily for piano players and often have 88 weighted keys, workstations are more versatile and cater to creating and recording music from a variety of instruments. Workstations may have 61 non-weighted keys and provide a wider range of synth sounds and music production capabilities.

Editor's Notes

During our workstation keyboard research, we found 24 workstation keyboard products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 4,580 customer reviews through our big data system to write the workstation keyboards list. We found that most customers choose workstation keyboards with an average price of $2,086.74.

The workstation keyboards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of workstation keyboards, including AKAI, YAMAHA, Korg, Roland. 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.