MIDI controllers with 61 keys are a good choice for those who are not satisfied with 25 or 49 keys and need more octave options to play more complicated parts.
These controllers have enough keys to cover a wide range of music and offer great sound control options and that’s why they have become popular among many different types of artists.
So, if you’re looking to upgrade your MIDI controller, I’ll recommend one that has all the features you need and produces good sound.
What’s The Best 61 Key MIDI Controller?
I’m listing my favorite and one of the best 61 key MIDI controllers with amazing sound and many different options to tweak sound or DAW settings.
| Image | Model | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Arturia KeyLab 61 |  (4.9 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 | (4.9 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | Korg microKEY Air-61 |  (4.8 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | M-Audio Keystation 61 |  (4.7 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | Alesis V61 MKII | (4.7 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
Arturia KeyLab 61
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Arturia KeyLab 61 offers a superb combination of keyboard feel and control options. With its semi-weighted keys, it caters to musicians who prefer a keyboard-like feel. The included software instruments, such as Analog Lab, make it an excellent choice for expanding your sound palette. It also features nine rotary encoders, nine faders, and 16 RGB pads for extensive creative control. Great from everything from recording to playing live.
Pros:
- Sound quality
- Features
Cons:
- Might be complicated for beginners
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61
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Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A61 is the best 61 key MIDI controller to use with NI Komplete and its plugins. It features 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and high-resolution color displays for in-depth control over virtual instruments. Its extensive browsing and tagging features streamline your creative process, and NKS compatibility ensures it works smoothly with a wide range of virtual instruments. The only downside is that it doesn’t have onboard pads or more advanced controls.
Pros:
- Great for Komplete instruments
- Comfortability
Cons:
- Lacks control options
Korg microKEY Air-61
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Korg microKEY Air-61 offers a unique approach with its 61 natural touch mini keys and wireless Bluetooth MIDI connectivity. Its compact and sleek design makes it ideal for musicians on the go. This 61 key MIDI controller is created for playing without distractions – has only mod and pitch wheels and up and down octave buttons. So, if you want just a simple yet great-sounding keyboard to play virtual instruments, then this one is perfect for you.
Pros:
- Price
- Sound
- Key quality
Cons:
- Lack of controls
M-Audio Keystation 61
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M-Audio Keystation 61 is a straightforward and affordable MIDI controller with 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys. Like the Korg microKey, it lacks controls but has a little bit more – apart from control wheels and octave buttons, offers volume fader, play/stop, and navigation buttons. Its lightweight and portable design makes it suitable for musicians who need a no-fuss solution for music production and performance. It’s very comfortable to play and even though it has 61 keys, it’s somewhat compact and can fit in most home studio spaces.
Pros:
- Amazing sound
- Comfortability
Cons:
- No pads
Alesis V61 MKII
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Alesis V61 is one of the best 61 key MIDI controllers based on its features and price. This one provides 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys along with eight backlit pads and four assignable knobs. Octave and transpose buttons allow you to extend your playing range easily. Works great with modern digital audio workstations and also includes MPC Beat software and additional extension packs which means you will have everything to not only record but perform on stage with your band.
Pros:
- Controls
- Good sound
- Easy to play
Cons:
- Feels cheap
Conclusion
61 key MIDI controllers are good for musicians because they can play more notes and complicated chords with both hands. Each one listed here is good for different things like feeling, software, portability, simplicity, or price. You can find the right one for you to make better music.
