12 Best Cheap MIDI Keyboards Under 200 Dollars
Juan Stansbury
Are you a music producer or a serious musician aspiring to produce music on your PC?
If your answer is yes, a MIDI keyboard is one of the most important instruments that you should have. In case you didn’t know, a MIDI keyboard is piano-like electronic hardware.
The device has knobs, wheels, and sliders for sending MIDI signal commands to computers or other connected music devices. With tons of budget MIDI keyboards on the market, choosing the best cheap MIDI keyboard has become a daunting task.
Nowadays, with less than 200 dollars, anyone can set up a small size professional music studio with a few musical pieces of equipment.
As far as you assemble some musical instruments, a computer, and a MIDI keyboard, you are ready to rock out. Without further ado, let’s discuss the best cheap MIDI keyboards.
Last update on 2023-10-29 at 07:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Table of Contents
12 Best Cheap MIDI Keyboards Under 200 Dollars
Akai MPK Mini MKII
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Whether you are a studio producer or a mobile performer, Akai MPK Mini MKII will make you control your music-making in many exciting ways.
The USB bus-powered MIDI controller incorporates 25 synth-action mini keys and 4-way thumb-stick for mod duties and pitch bend.
Additionally, there’s an adjustable arpeggiator that lets you adjust the resolution, modes, and range.
Besides, the MPK Mini MkII comes with 60 free lessons that will teach you how to input the device’s pad controllers and keys that will resonate well with your music.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional music producer, this device is guaranteed to improve your skills.
Although there are many perfect features of this device, there are some things a common user should get to know.
For instance, MIDI controllers are great when recorded at certain velocities. But you will require software to make this happen.
- Small and portable.
- Include 8 drum pads.
- Include 8 assignable knobs.
- 25- key design and other MIDI knobs.
- The keys may be rather small for large fingers.
- The software is hard to use for beginners.
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Video: “THE BEST AKAI MPK MINI TUTORIAL AND REVIEW!!!”
Alesis V25
- MIDI Keyboard with 25 full-sized, velocity sensitive square-front keys, perfect for playing Virtual Instruments
- 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit pads for beat production and clip launching
- 4 assignable knobs and 4 assignable buttons interface with your music software. Seamless, visual feedback via...
- Octave Up and Down buttons let you access the full keyboard range and Pitch and modulation wheels deliver expressive,...
- Premium Software Included - Includes Ableton Live Lite, Xpand 2 virtual instrument software by Air Music Tech and MPC...
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To create the best music, you need the best MIDI keyboard that you can always count on. Loaded with full-size, synth-action keys, Alesis V25 MIDI keyboard is perfect especially when you use virtue instruments.
You will have the feeling of large keys with the perfect front in a complete controller. The device’s backlit, velocity, and sensitive LED pads will let you not only tap out rhythms and play synthesizers but also trigger loops.
Only a single USB cable will provide power to the keyboard and send the MIDI data. In addition to its portability, Alesis V25 is ideal for two-hand performance.
The device will give you all you need to take control of your virtue instruments on stage or in the studio.
With Alesis V25 USB MIDI keyboard, all the selection of controls that you need is at your fingertips. For instance, there are full-sized keys to give you velocity controls. The backlit velocity-sensitive pads make it easy to trigger loops and tap rhythms.
- Easy to set up.
- Options can be easily adjusted.
- Provides tactile controls.
- You have to install software for any adjustment.
- Some consumers don’t like semi-weighted keys— prefer springier ones.
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Video: “Alesis V25 MIDI Keyboard Controller Review”
Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK3
![Novation Launchkey Mini [MK3] — Portable 25-Key, USB, MIDI Keyboard Controller...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/416sQyIqrBL.jpg)
- Get hands on with Ableton Live - Have a seamless music making experience with Ableton Live and your Launchkey Mini. Have...
- Get creative easily with arpeggiator - Easy to use but deeply controllable, Launchkey Mini’s creative arpeggiator...
- Play chords with one finger - Lay down chords for your track quick with fixed chord mode. Play a chord with one finger...
- Launchkey Mini goes anywhere with you - Send apps and program changes to your hardware synths with MIDI Out, or add keys...
- Finest-tech at your fingertips - The Launchkey Mini might be small in size but it’s packed with features. The 25-key...
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If you are in the music industry, definitely you are looking for an affordable and portable MIDI keyboard that will give you an awesome experience.
Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK3 is the perfect instrument that should always be on top of your bucket list. With this device, you get new melodies, sounds, and rhythms flying out of your fingertips.
Launchkey Mini 25 MK3 will fit in your bag and allow you to make tracks anywhere with tons of sounds in the box. With its 16 super-sensitive pads for clip launch and drumming, you can easily add dynamic and impressive rhythms.
When you plug it into live and feed your ideas, launch key mini will get any track moving.
The instrument’s deep integration with live music will make you move where the music will take you. With this device, the sounds from your head are transferred into your hands.
Moreover, the instrument comes with everything that you need to produce the perfect tracks in the box including, sounds, effects, and instruments from Spitfire audio, Klevgrand, AAS, XLN Audio, and Softube. Also, you are given free membership of the Novation Sounds Collective.
The touch strips for mod and pitch incorporated in this instrument will let you feel the magic in your fingers. This device feels as awesome as it looks.
- Works well with all DAWs.
- Highly affordable and great workflow .
- Generous software bundle.
- Hardware MIDI out.
- Fixed configurations may not be suitable for all consumers.
- Lacks after-touch.
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Video: “Review: LaunchKey MINI MK3 // Ableton Live // Generative arp // TRS MIDI explained (MKIII tutorial)”
M-Audio Oxygen (25) MK IV
- Compact, ultra portable performance keyboard controller with 25 full size, synth action velocity sensitive keys and on...
- 8 velocity sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching, and 8 assignable knobs for manipulating...
- Dedicated octave up and down buttons increase the keyboard to the full melodic range and transport buttons let you...
- Innovative DirectLink automatically maps controls to popular DAWs including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase and...
- Class compliant, plug and play functionality and USB powered specification for simple user friendly setup
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This MIDI keyboard controller is highly rated for its full-size keys, compactness, and its portability.
It integrates impressive keyboard feel complete with easy DAW in addition to its 8 velocity-sensitive pads for perfect loops and samples.
Besides, it incorporates many features that will make you easily configure the device with pro tools like Cubase, GarageBand, Ableton Live, Reasons, and Logic Pro X.
8 parameter controls will make you easily control your DAW without keyboard or mouse clicks. Also, it can be automatically integrated into the popular DAW software—this makes it a concise plug and plays MIDI control that is fit for both novices and professionals.
M-Audio Oxygen will always maximize your workflow while ensuring a natural playing experience and creativity.
The instrument has also enhanced transport control buttons that will allow you to initiate play, stop, or record in the DAW right from your keyboard.
- Enough pads for the perfect beat—also good for improvising.
- Easy and faster control integration with digital applications.
- Easily adjust the velocity setting.
- Easy to use even for the beginners.
- Velocity curve lagging.
- Keys are stiff.
- No volume slider.
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Video: “M Audio Oxygen 25 MIDI keyboard Review!!!!”
Korg NanoKey 2
- Low-profile, 25-key USB-MIDI keyboard, ideal for use with laptop and netbook computers
- Advanced-design keyed offers improved accuracy and velocity-sensitive keys
- Sustain button – ideal for entering piano parts!
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Korg NanoKey 2 is a great value for your bucks especially to the musicians or producers who prefer a portable controller that can be used with laptops or tablets.
There are a variety of controllers in the market but few are as perfect as Korg Nano Key 2. Its size and design resonate well with the portability that Korg was looking for.
This NanoKey 2 is a device that you can put in your bag and forget about it. It is extremely light, perfectly functional and easily stored.
What’s more?
The instrument’s body is tough enough to withstand a nice beating, while its design eliminates any risk of damage during transport.
The NanoKey 2 MIDI uses a USB cable to connect with your device. Tossing this device and a laptop in your bag, you have a fully functional workstation. Things can’t get more low profile than this.
If your work is tied inside the studio, you will probably consider something different, but if you are mostly on the move, this is the excellent choice for you— especially when you consider its low price.
Apart from these great features, some users have complained of inconsistent velocity response from NanoKey 2. Also, some iPad users have cited the lack of an iOS editor.
- Easy to set up.
- Affordable and portable.
- Keys are little Mushy.
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Video: “Korg nanoKEY2 – Quick demo”
Akai LPK25
- 13-Inch, Slim-Line Laptop Performance Keyboard With 25 Velocity-Sensitive Mini-Keyboard Keys For Playing Melodies, Bass...
- Dedicated Octave Up And Down Buttons To Increase The Keyboard To The Full Melodic Range Plus A Sustain Button For...
- On-Board Arpeggiator Steps Through Chords Automatically And Generates Inspiring Melodic Ideas Quickly
- 4 Programmable Memory Banks For Instant Recall Of Mappings For Daws, Virtual Instruments, Effects And More
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Key choices can make or break your sound production depending on what you are trying to achieve.
For the music producers who are looking for the best cheap MIDI Keyboard that will not make you break the bank, Akai LPK25 is a great choice.
This lightweight MIDI controller is perfect for the on-the-go music producers and live performance with an inbuilt arpeggiator functionality.
Its plug and play functionality adds up to its easy set-up. Also, this is a perfect match for newbies in music production.
It includes all the required designs for increasing your musical ideas. Its enthusiastic octave buttons complete the keyboard with a melodic range.
It is ideal for both recording and playing. Its onboard adjustable arpeggiator makes it easy and simple to create complex melodic lines.
- Convenient octave buttons.
- USB powered— no external power supply needed.
- Compatible with Pro DAWS like Ableton Live, FL Studio Cubase, and many more.
- Too small for live Piano session records.
- Highly springy keys.
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Video: “Akai LPK 25 Portable USB MIDI Keyboard – Review & Demo”
Native Instrument Komplete Kontrol M32
- 32 compact keys to control all your instruments and effects
- Sleek and solid design, fused with professional production features
- Comes with a powerful software package, including synths, basses, drums, effects – plus Ableton Live 10 Lite
- OLED display and touch-sensitive knobs to tweak your sound’s essential parameters in real-time
- Usb 2.0 bus powered
Last update on 2023-10-29 at 07:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The M32 is the most recent and least expensive of all the integrated controllers for the Komplete Kontrol and Maschine company software.
The device is light as a feather. M32 is great for music producers who are constantly on the move or the ones who care about their desktop space, of course, light doesn’t mean flimsy.
The incredible thing is that it incorporates all the buttons and rotaries that are in the most expensive keyboards.
This means that you have all the transport, navigation and select areas in addition to the 8 rotaries. This is a great chance for the newcomers to enter the music production with cheap but a professional MIDI keyboard.
- Touch-sensitive controls.
- Highly portable.
- A lot of features.
- None.
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Video: “Native Instruments M32 REVIEW!”
M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32
- Production and Beat Maker Essentials Program beats, loops, and grooves using 8 easily accessible pressure and velocity...
- Complete MIDI Control 8 encoders, 3 dedicated transport controls and 5 navigation buttons for comprehensive DAW, virtual...
- Effortless Setup HyperControl unites your hardware and software by automatically mapping the controller’s parameters...
- MIDI Keyboard Controller Must Haves On board pitch bend, sustain and modulation buttons for expressive performances and...
- No Drivers, No Fuss Class compliant with Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Mac OS X for simple,...
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Take your music production to the next level and experience an expanded control of your instrument with M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32.
This device gives you extensive control while remaining easy and simple to use. With this MIDI keyboard, you are sure of flawless recording software with no set-up chores.
You can customize the set-ups right from your keyboard meaning that there is no software editing required.
An ignite feature that comes with this MIDI Keyboard enables you to capture your ideas at a professional level. Different musical ideas are captured as clips.
A variety of these clips can be played together or combined to create complex song sections. Ignite is easily integrated with any current keyboard controller.
Once it has been paired with your PC, the key parameters will be assigned automatically or presented to the front panel controllers. This is an out-of-the-box integration that works with no set-up chores.
Ultimate for plug and play, the compact Mini 32 presents 8 sensitive pads and 32 velocity-sensing keys, opening fresh paths to ideal performance.
It is you to choose the best velocity curve that will match your play. Modulation, sustain buttons and pitch bend adds serious performance capabilities.
The presence of octave shift keys gives you access to the whole MIDI note range.
In addition to a versatile arpeggiator, there is both a phrase player and a chord player that cultivates your music production through the introduction of new musical patterns such as drum patterns.
Another amazing thing is that you can share your music ideas and songs with the rest of the band or other musicians or producers through Sound-Cloud— all this can be done on Ignite.
Besides, you can easily export MIDI and WAV files to any other DAW software including the Pro Tools.
- Lightweight and portable.
- 8 rotary knobs and drum pads.
- Fully programmable for all DAWs.
- Modulation and pitch bend with buttons.
- No direct MIDI connections— only via USB.
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Video: “A Lot Of Control In A Little Package! |M-Audio Axiom Air Mini 32 Review!|”
Midiplus AKM320
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If you are a serious music producer and sourcing for the best priced MIDI Keyboard, then Midiplus AKM320 is here for you.
In terms of quality, Midiplus AKM320 is the solid choice for your music production or studio.
Owing to its affordability and inclusion of all the major features required for any music production, this controller is perfect for the beginners.
You may have a full-sized MIDI controller but require a lightweight and portably designed keyboard that is perfect when traveling, editing, performing, composing, and recording on the go.
It is nicely packed with all the great features that a serious musician or producer would wish for.
You can use the MIDI keyboard for a variety of things including recording, editing, and remixing.
The device can also be easily connected through a USB port. Besides, you can do a lot more things with this particular controller than any other compact size controllers like pitch wheels and modulation.
These are much helpful with deeper sounds. The transpose and octave buttons are equally cool as it doesn’t feature any other knobs.
- Simple and Easy to use.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Plug and play.
- Stiff keys.
- Difficult to use volume slider.
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Video: “This is The Cheapest Midi Controller On Amazon! |MidiPlus AKM320 Review!|”
M-Audio Keystation (32, 49, 61) MK3
- Ultimate Expression - 49 full-size velocity-sensitive keys provide a natural feel that captures every subtle nuance of...
- Total Control - Volume fader, transport and directional buttons for easy control of your software, plus...
- Immediate Creativity - Easy plug-and-play connection to your Mac or PC—no drivers or power supply required; compatible...
- Your Studio Centrepiece - Compact design fits any desk, studio or stage setup perfectly and advanced functionality...
- Premium Software suite included - MPC Beats, Ableton Live Lite, Velvet, XPand2, Mini Grand, and Touch Loops
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Welcome to the bestselling MIDI keyboard controllers with comprehensive controls and velocity-sensitive keys.
These M-audio releases and perfectly expand the range of playable notes and enhance the producer’s recording workflow.
These models employ the octave range buttons, modulation controls, pitch bend, and volume control to play and record with music software without necessarily using a trackpad or a mouse.
These compact, durable and lightweight MIDI controllers are ideal for the musicians who feel the importance of commanding the music software during live performances.
They are also perfect for producers who find it necessary to include an intuitive MIDI controller with a natural feeling to their production houses. They are USB powered and support USB MIDI connectivity.
All three are compatible with iOS—enabling you to comfortably compose and perform with your audio applications on your iPad.
- No drivers needed .
- Versatile adjustments.
- Great Keys.
- Sensitive exterior.
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Video: “M-Audio Keystation 49 Mk3 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard – Review & Demo”
Novation Launchkey (25, 49, 61) MK2
- MK2 version of Novation's 25-note USB keyboard controller for Ableton Live
- 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, 8 knobs, and dedicated navigation and control buttons
- Software for Mac and PC
- Fully USB bus-powered and class compliant; works without drivers or power cable
- Software for Mac and PC, Including: Ableton Live Lite, XLN Audio Addictive Keys, Novation Bass Station and V Station...
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A MIDI controller is a musical hardware that is designed to record, mix or edit your music without using the mouse. There are different types of these hardware in the market.
The main issue is choosing the one best for you. The Latchkey versions (25, 49, 61) of the MIDI keyboard are best for use both in the studio and live performance.
These versions are the quickest and easiest technique to produce with Ableton Live. You are just required to connect it through a USB port.
The buttons, keys and velocity-sensitive pads will offer a hand-on control of your instruments and the mixer. The velocity-sensitivity will allow you to give different feelings into the various beats.
Packed with a decent software coupled with perfect features buddle at an affordable price, the Launchkey versions are a valuable addition to your studio or music production house.
- Easy to use—Ideal for beginners.
- DC and USB power sockets.
- A lot of great features.
- Lacks factory setting adjustments.
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Video: “Novation Launchkey 25 / 49 / 61 MK2 FL Studio Setup”
Nektar Impact LX49
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Impact LX49 velocity sensitive controller pads that are best suited for groove and beat creation, create simple to produce music. Every pad is capable of producing any MIDI note that is designed to use as MIDI triggers or toggle buttons.
With this MIDI controller, there are no difficult menus that are vital in finding the most out of your pads.
To be in line with your playing style, four-velocity curves automatically adjust in dynamics. For specific synth types, there are 3 fixed velocities.
More importantly, Nektar Impact LX49 includes Bitwig 8-Track DAW software that is perfect for arranging and sketching musical ideas. The software is a musical production force to reckon with.
- Easy connectivity to iOS.
- Ample control capabilities.
- Incorporate Bitwig 8-Track DAW software.
- No software editor .
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Video: “Nektar Impact LX49+”
Last update on 2023-10-29 at 07:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Final Thoughts
The MIDI keyboard that you choose is always a balance between personal preference and the task at hand.
Musicians, producers, and beat makers have different set parameters when it comes to keyboard controls.
Some will go for pads and others will prefer keys. The solid qualities that are offered by different mediums is a physical reality of various DAW navigation.
But it is vital to consider cheap but professional MIDI keyboards if you are fund tied.
Remember, price is a significant factor when purchasing any stuff. But do these kinds of stuff resonate well with the quality that you prefer?
This is also true for the MIDI keyboard controllers. You will get a lot of MIDI keyboard controllers under 200 dollars. But are they suitable for your music production?
Whatever your MIDI keyboard controller requirements, the above review is a clear indication that you have a large pool of budget MIDI keyboards to choose from.
