Many new musicians and producers who are starting their music production journey often look for easy-to-use tools to help them begin. MIDI controllers are a great option for beginners because they are versatile and simple to use.
Beginner MIDI controllers offer all the options and features you need to start your music production or recording journey and they will help you to create amazing sounds easily.
In this article, I will discuss some of my favorite MIDI controllers that I think are great for beginners.
What’s The Best MIDI Controller For Beginners?
If you are searching for the best MIDI controllers for beginners with great sound, controls, and features, here are my favorite ones that I have used.
| Image | Model | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Roland A-49 |  (4.8 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | Alesis VI61 | (4.8 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | M-Audio Oxygen 61 | (4.8 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | Akai MPK Mini Plus |  (4.7 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
 | Nektar Impact GX61 | (4.7 / 5) | Check on Amazon |
Roland A-49
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Roland A-49 is a simple and easy-to-use MIDI controller with 49 keys that respond to how hard you press them. It has a basic design that won’t confuse beginners with too many fancy features and 49 keys are enough to play almost any song or part. It’s also built to last and doesn’t take up much space, which makes it perfect for people who record in a small room. If you’re a beginner and want a MIDI controller that’s reliable and straightforward, Roland A-49 is a great choice.
Pros:
- Sound quality
- 49 keys
Cons:
- Lack of pads
Alesis VI61
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Alesis VI61 is one of the best MIDI controllers for beginners that offers an exquisite combination of keyboard feel and control options and it’s my favorite one from this list. First of all, it offers comfortable-to-play 88 semi-weighted keys but apart from that, you have sixteen pads, pitch/mod wheels, and assignable knobs. But the amazing thing is that it comes with 48 assignable buttons, that allow you to control different features of virtual instruments. That’s why it’s my favorite beginner MIDI controller.
Pros:
- Features
- All controls
- Sound
Cons:
- No faders
M-Audio Oxygen 61
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Oxygen 61 by M-Audio strikes an excellent balance between affordability and functionality. With 61 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys and an array of knobs, faders, and pads, it offers comprehensive control without overwhelming beginners. It’s a simple but very powerful MIDI controller that comes with a VST instruments bundle which makes it a great MIDI keyboard for recording. I owned it and I can say from my experience that this is a great-sounding instrument to record or even play on small gigs.
Pros:
- Great keys
- Features
- Great for recording
Cons:
- Only for beginners
Akai MPK Mini Plus 37
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Akai MPK Mini Plus is the best MIDI controller for beginners if you are looking for small and compact size keyboards. It has 37 keys which is more than the standard 25 keys and gives you more octave options. It is perfect for beginners, especially those who want to make music while traveling or have small studio space. The controller has eight drum pads that light up, eight knobs, a sequencer, both wheels and various buttons to control your DAW or virtual instruments settings. Sound-wise, I always liked Akai Professional products and this particular one is no exception.
Pros:
- 37 keys
- Great for recording
- Control options
Cons:
- Feel of keys
Nektar Impact GX61
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Nektar Impact GX61 is a 61-key MIDI controller that has a similar layout to Roland A-49 but is more affordable. Although this one doesn’t offer drum pads, comes with pitch and mod wheels, works perfectly with all modern digital audio workstations, has a simple design, and focuses on playing and controlling DAW and VST settings via specific buttons. If you are looking for a beginner MIDI controller that is great for playing and recording, then GX61 is one for you.
Pros:
- 61 keys
- Great sound
- Easy to play
Cons:
- No pads
Conclusion
As a beginner in music production, selecting the best MIDI controller for beginners can greatly impact your learning experience and creative journey. Whether you value simplicity, affordability, or versatility, these controllers are perfect for beginners to discover and enhance their musical abilities. With any of these beginner MIDI controllers, you’ll have limitless creative options, making your journey into music production thrilling and rewarding.
