Best Mini MIDI Keyboard for Ableton Live 2023
It’s no secret that MIDI keyboards and Ableton Live go hand in hand. It can be a daunting task to find the best MIDI keyboard for Ableton for any given user, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the best options available. From beginner level to studio-ready, these keyboards will help you get started with your own production endeavors!
We know that everyone is different, which is why we made sure that our controllers have customizable controls so you can map them however you like for maximum flexibility and ease of use during live performances or studio sessions, which is super straightforward to do in Ableton Live!
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3
The Akai MPK Mini is affordable, compact, and has a nice feel to the keys. It’s perfect for those who want an easy-to-use MIDI controller that can be taken anywhere. It’s compatible with all major DAWs including Ableton so you can start making music right away. You won’t find another device like it on the market today. It’s not just an amazing product but also an incredible experience you can have every day of your life. So it has rightfully earned its place on main recommendations for any Home Studio Equipment, and therefore the best MIDI keyboard for Ableton Live.
With 25 synth-action mini keys, 8 backlit MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity plus 8 assignable knobs, this little guy packs a punch! This controller was designed for musicians who are always on-the-go but still want professional results every time they play their instrument, though it really is great for producers of all levels from beginners to pros. Whether you are producing hip-hop beats or EDM bangers – this will get the job done right!
M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini
M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini is a perfect entry-level keyboard controller for musicians, producers & performers. It has all of the features needed to create musical masterpieces on a laptop or desktop computer, such as eight assignable knobs and buttons that are customizable to control nearly any function in your favorite DAW, which is obviously Ableton Live. The compact design makes it ideal for traveling musicians who want to take their production work with them on the road and its compact, lightweight design makes it easy to use in any environment.
This package also includes Ableton Live Lite – giving you everything from virtual instruments and effects plugins right out of the box! No matter what kind of music production workflows you prefer, Oxygen Pro Mini has everything necessary to get started making great music right away!
Korg Nanokey2
The Korg Nanokey2 is an affordable, compact midi controller that makes it easy to get started with music production. It comes in two colors and works great with Ableton Live! Generally speaking, Ableton users tend to use a lot of pad and knob automation so perhaps calling this one the best MIDI keyboard for Ableton Live is being a little generous.
Nevertheless, this little guy has 25 velocity-sensitive keys and weighs less than 1 pound. It also features octave up/down buttons, pitch up/down buttons, and a sustain button. And if you need more keys just plug in another Nanokey2 via USB to give yourself 50 total keys, now that’s what we call “value”!
Ableton Push 2 Controller Instrument
Alright, so technically not a keyboard but if you’re into Ableton Live, chances are you wouldn’t mind a controller pad, even if you don’t know it yet!
Push is an instrument that lets you control your sound and creativity with a few simple buttons. Push is a powerful, expressive instrument that puts everything a musician needs to capture new ideas right at their fingertips.
Ableton Push 2 is a controller instrument that’s so intuitive you won’t even need to look at your screen. Built for melodies, basslines and drums; this box of musical magic gives you the tools to be the creative genius that’s been locked inside of you.
With velocity-sensitive pads, and knobs on the top panel, it gives musicians incredible command of their instruments from anywhere inside or outside of Ableton Live.
Novation Launchkey Mini
The Novation Launchkey Mini is the perfect solution. It’s lightweight and compact enough to fit in your bag or backpack, but still has all the control you need to make music with Ableton Live. Plus, it comes with everything you need to get started – including Ableton Live Lite software so you can start making music right away!
This compact controller gives you all the controls needed to create great music with Ableton Live. Its 16 velocity-sensitive multi-color launch pads allow you to launch clips or play drums, 8 knobs for tweaking effects and instruments without ever touching your computer mouse or trackpad; plus arpeggio and chord buttons so you can play music without having to learn chords and scales! With this much power at such an affordable price point, why wouldn’t you take advantage?
So which is the Best MIDI Keyboard for Ableton Live?
There are many MIDI keyboards on the market today, but which one is the best MIDI keyboard for Ableton Live? It’s important to understand what features and functions you need before making the purchase. I have listed a few of my favorites above, and I hope this article offered some insight in deciding what will work best for your personal music production habits so that you can go back to doing what you love! Remember to consider the type of music you play and if any specific features would be needed or desired, such as velocity sensitivity or aftertouch. Which ones did you choose from this list? What were your thoughts? Let me know how it goes!