So are you looking for the best midi keyboard for fl studio? There are many of them from various brands, but only a few are up to the task. Choosing one of many can be daunting, and this guide will demystify the process for you with reviews of the top-rated midi drivers.
A mouse and keyboard in your DAW won’t stand up to the task, and that’s when a midi keyboard becomes a necessity. As a hip-hop producer, electronic musician, or rhythm maker, you’ll need to make the most of FL Studio software and control your hardware.
If you’re a logic pro user, check out our comprehensive guide to the best MIDI controller for Logic Pro X, where you’ll be luckier to find the logic pro perfect controller!
Of the seven midi keyboards reviewed, the Alesis V62 MIDI Keyboard Controller was the overall best choice, as no other midi keyboard could live up to its combination of exceptional functionality, durability, and value.
Table of Contents
Here are our top 7 Best MIDI Keyboard for FL Studio in 2020
- Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII
- Nektar Impact LX25+
- Alesis V61 MIDI Keyboard Controller
- M-Audio Code 49
- Novation Launchkey 25 MK2
- Nektar Impact GX61
- Akai Professional Fire
Whatever your budget, here you can find an ideal choice of the best midi controller for fl studio and all other areas of your life that demand pristine performances.
🏆 Quick Look at the Best MIDI Controller for FL Studio 🏆
The 7 Top-Rated MIDI Keyboard for FL Studio: Reviews in Details
Its review time! As its name implies, a midi controller is for controlling anything and everything. However, in order for you to choose the best, you need to establish what exactly you need.
Once you know what you want, you can look at some products and check their weight, dimensions, control options, and connectivity if they fit your needs.
We invested a lot of time and effort in compiling this guide. We’ve spent 57 hours searching for the best midi keyboard for fl studio on the market, and we’ve used various sources, such as reviews and reviews from professional musicians, to provide the information you need.
We have examined the size, materials used, weight, and other key features such as style and warranty, as the perfect ukulele needs to tick all the right boxes. To make your life as easy as possible, we have compiled a comparison chart and in-depth reviews of each product.
You can blindly trust us because the more research you do, the more knowledge you get. We investigate for our loving clients as for the best.
Therefore, we must choose one that fits perfectly. We visited many guitar stores, talked to various professionals and manufacturers, and finally got our top seven.
Here, we will provide a review of the best midi controller for fl studio in detail so you can shop knowing everything. Let’s get started.
The best midi keyboard for Fruity Loops Studio should offer flexibility. That is one of the things that the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII offers. It is ultra-versatile as a USB midi controller or ultra-portable mini keyboard.
Another thing I would like to recommend is for the 128 sounds along with 10 included drum kits.
It’s a compact model with a great design, which includes an OLED display and 25 responsive synth-action keys.
The keys are full-size and highly touch-sensitive that even the default velocity curve is good enough. The 8 velocity drum pads feel and work great. The knobs also have a nice feel, and you can adjust their sensitivity to assess how different effects impact sounds.
The 9 faders are useful for mixing a track or playing live. They are made with soft rubber caps that work well but are somewhat loose and short.
On the plus side, they make dynamic performance an achievable dream, which is why this is one of the best midi keyboards for FL Studio for live performances.
Like other Akai controllers, this is a gem. It has a fantastic design and focuses mainly on functionality in a powerful and flexible way.
It has a high-quality construction with controls that work well and has a nice touch. The controller integrates seamlessly with various DAWs, including FL studio. You’ll fall in love with the few affordable premium soft synths it comes with.
This midi controller is a powerhouse with so many superior features to fit its compact size. Because it’s super lightweight, it’s great for creating or producing music on the go.
The Nektar Impact GX25+ is one to consider for your Nektar DAW integration for common and popular DAWs. Eight buttons are available for DAW control, strategically located in the middle.
DAW integration and extended eight-button functionality allow you to spend more time creating great music instead of dealing with your mouse most of the time which can kill inspiration and creativity.
It is a well-made product with a clear and decisive design that guarantees that everything is easily accessible. It also has a good mix of control types to choose from.
It features semi-heavy keys that span 2 octaves, giving them a less synthesized feel and making the response more natural. It has an octave and transpose buttons along with 2 wheels for tone and modulation curves.
It has 8 backlit rhythm pads that are suitably velocity-sensitive, are configured in 4 velocity curves, and 3 are fixed. 4 can be assigned for recall and you can trim and save scenes at the touch of a button and help eliminate complex menus.
Additionally, there is a miniature fader bar and 8 rotary potentiometers that reflect Nektar dials but can take care of everything from oscillation, resonance, and cut settings, or can be assigned as individual channel controls.
It connects via USB and is also compatible with Android devices if desired. It has a 1/4 “jack auxiliary input to connect a footswitch.
It is diverse machinery, it has easy transport and navigation buttons and it benefits from a clear screen. It’s easy to use as it syncs directly to your DAW and even ships with an optional free DAW as well as a couple of handy game patches to play with.
Whether you are looking to produce or play great music, you can trust the Alesis V61. It is a powerful and reliable MIDI controller with all the features and functions you are looking for an excellent keyboard controller and drum pad.
For dynamic performance, the Alesis V61 is what you need. It allows you to take full control of your favorite music software while still having the ability to play and play.
Whether you’re looking to perform on stage or produce music in your home studio, you can always trust the Alesis V61 for excellent, dynamic performance. It is a robust and reliable midi keyboard.
The 25 full-size keys are light-heavy, so playing on the V61 will feel like playing on a real piano. Its drum pads have a nice touch that is “rubbery” and not stiff.
Octave up and down buttons along with sufficiently responsive keys allow you to access the full range of the keyboard so you can play different melodies, chords, and bass lines. Pitch and mod wheels will help you achieve expressive and creative control over your rhythms.
As if that were enough, the V61 is one of the best affordable midi keyboards for FL studio. It is primarily comprehensive and a perfect choice for any musician.
This one for the minimalists. The M-Audio Code 49 is one of the simplest MIDI keyboards available; It has no sliders, knobs, or battery pads.
This is a sleek, attractive, and well-built keyboard for those who simply want a MIDI keyboard at an exceptional price, and the option of getting one with 88 keys is ideal for pianists and keyboards.
This is not the cheapest midi controller out there, but its features make it worth buying. It is also not the best midi controller to move around as it weighs over 6 pounds and has 49 keys.
The keys are full-size and highly touch-sensitive that even the default velocity curve is good enough. The 8 velocity drum pads feel and work great. The knobs also have a nice feel, and you can adjust their sensitivity to assess how different effects impact sounds.
The 9 faders are useful for mixing a track or playing live. They are made with soft rubber caps that work well but are somewhat loose and short.
On the plus side, they make dynamic performance an achievable dream, which is why this is one of the best midi keyboards for FL Studio for live performances.
Continuing with Novation for another less chaotic option for those who may feel a bit overwhelmed by impulse models, we have the Launchkey range, which is not only faster to learn but is priced at a very affordable level.
It features a compact 25-note keyboard that covers 2 octaves and has octave selection buttons for instrument-based control.
They work alongside 16 velocity-sensitive backlit tracks, rhythm tracks, and scene select buttons. The pads take care of the clip launch and allow users to work in real-time with a section in a loop to create a beat on the fly ordered by beat.
Expanding 16 instead of a typical 4 (on a smaller 25-key model) gives the user much more control over their bars.
This is the smallest of Novation’s keyboard controllers, and while it doesn’t have enough room for all the sliders and buttons like the others, its functionality is similar.
With its world-class features, such as the 16 multi-colored pads, you can play the drums, launch loops, adjust virtual instruments, and control basic DAW functions. Its plastic design isn’t the strongest, so it won’t hold up well if you hit the road too often.
If you don’t have the time or knowledge to find compatible software, this should be your best option, since it not only handles FL studio 12 but all the other DAWS available.
When it comes to versatility, the Nektar Impact GX61 is one to consider for its Nektar DAW integration for common and popular DAWs. Eight buttons are available for DAW control, strategically located in the middle.
DAW integration and extended eight-button functionality allow you to spend more time creating great music instead of dealing with your mouse most of the time which can kill inspiration and creativity.
Another thing I would like to recommend is that it includes assignable buttons for specific MIDI messages. They can be used in MIDI software not compatible with DAW integration.
It really just brings extra keys to the table, which is great for pianists who need something a little more liberating to improvise.
Many MIDI controllers that include a key set can be a bit restrictive for a player to play and, despite the inclusion of octave selection buttons, do not allow authentic sweeps of more than one or two octaves, but having 61 keys will it provides more than half a piano to play and substantially affects what it can and cannot translate to a digital audio workstation.
For an overview of the additional 8 trigger pads, 8 fader-style sliders, and rotary dials, you’ll need to scroll back through products 1 and 2 for details.
Akai Fire is the first MIDI controller designed from scratch for FruityLoops.
In fact, Akai collaborated closely with Image-Line (creators of FL Studio) to create the features and control options that would help producers make the most of the DAW.
And all that effort shows: Nothing on the market even remotely comes close to offering the features, flexibility, and power of the Fire when it comes to using FL Studio.
Now to Akai for another professional alternative created with FL Studios specifically in mind and even sold with a downloadable version of the FL20 Fruity Edition.
It is a MIDI controller packed with pads and perfect for rhythm makers and heavy sample producers.
The design is well organized despite being locked with 64 RGB backlit triggers, they are arranged in 4 rows of 16 and they are an effective command center for your DAW, which syncs automatically.
They allow you to quickly program a 16-stroke bar or 4 4-stroke bars in real-time. Its greatest glory is its mode selection and scale lock which allows those with less music theory or practical skills to play melodies to develop chords etc. without the traditional keys.
You can use a shift in conjunction with the selector dial to choose a channel that is clearly indicated on the LED display. You can adjust the volume, pan, filter, and resonance with the 4 assignable ‘touch-capacitive’ knobs provided.
It also has dedicated Step, Notes, Drum, and Play buttons that have a secondary accent, quick touch, and summary actions, as well as a separate metronome.
MIDI Keyboard for FL Studio Buying Guide
There are so many of them that choosing the best one can be a challenge. This guide will help you choose what is right for you without much hassle. Before buying a midi controller, you should identify your need for one.
There are certain features that are a must for a wonderful midi keyboard. When shopping for one, be sure to consider them all for a highly functional, quality product.
In this section, you will learn about the advantages of midi controllers and the features to consider when buying one.
Weight
This depends on where or how you try to use the driver. There are small or compact midi keyboards that are lightweight and highly portable. If you want to create music on the go, this would be a perfect choice. Heavier alternatives weighing 6 pounds or more can be used at home or in studios.
Size
Size options are based on the number of keys. There are 25 keys, 49 keys, 61 keys, and 88 keys.
The small drivers are highly mobile, and you can easily put one in your backpack.
Controls set
Many midi keyboards come with a basic tone and modulation controls and some buttons for changing octaves on the keyboard.
You wouldn’t need a mouse to mix a song, and that will allow you to play, play, and control the music software at the same time.
Number of keys
Perhaps the most important factor in choosing the best MIDI keyboard is selecting the correct size for you in terms of the number of keys. The smallest keyboard you can buy has 25 keys.
After that, it’s 49, 61, and 88 (full-size pianos have 88 keys, so that’s maximum). Another size you can see in nature is 37 keys.
According to the data on our website, 49 keys appear to be the size of most producers. That’s large enough to be able to play 4-octave tunes, but it won’t take up too much space on your desktop.
You can pick 61 to get that extra eighth, but it’s about the budget and personal preference. We lean on the 49-key side if this is the first.
People who use 88-key keyboards probably have a background for playing the piano, and can’t bear to have something that feels different.
If you’re looking for maximum portability, you’ll want to look at compact 25-key MIDI keyboards.
Portability
If your studio space is especially small, you travel and produce music on the go, or you just prefer to play and record simpler tunes with one hand, you probably want a portable controller with 25 or 37 keys. Please note that the fact that a controller has 25 keys does not necessarily make it portable.
An Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII 25-key controller has a fairly large footprint and may not fit in your backpack. Furthermore, the slim M-Audio Code 49 travels very easily.
Extra controls
These are things you get in addition to the keys. Think of pads, knobs, faders, buttons, wheels, etc. Just looking at a MIDI keyboard should give you an idea of how many additional controls you’re getting.
Whether or not you need a bunch of additional controls depends on whether you really plan to use them or not. Many of these MIDI keyboards assign their sliders, knobs, and buttons to their DAW software like Ableton, FL Studio, Logic, etc.
For example, some of the equipment reviewers on the Equipboard staff prefer to use their computer mouse and keyboard to manipulate their DAWs and VSTs, and only use a MIDI keyboard to play melodies, bass lines, and drum loops.
Others like to assign sliders to the mixer, drum pads to samples, and even transport controls (play, stop, rewind, etc.) on their MIDI keyboard to their DAW.
Example: You might prefer to hit the drum parts on a pad grid, rather than a keyboard, so you might like the pads on the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII.
Top Things You Should Know as a Worship Guitarist
What is a MIDI controller?
It’s a piece of hardware modeled on earlier MIDI keyboard/synthesizer and sequencer models that were designed earlier with music production in mind to replace a traditional keyboard and mouse computer peripheral.
MIDI is an acronym for Digital Musical Instrument Interface for those who were wondering.
What is FL Studio?
Fl Studio is a digital audio workstation software that was first released in the form of Fruity Loops if you can remember enough. What has evolved over the years into an all-in-one station to effectively manage the music creation process from start to finish?
Due to its flexible and potentially infinite possibilities, it is used within the industry by both the top and newcomers. It is a fairly simple program to manage, but management is best suited to the correct controller, which is why we are talking about MIDI today.
What type of MIDI controller?
As you may have noticed, the main types of MIDI controllers on the market appear to be instrument-based (piano/keyboard) or pad/button, the latter of which is often referred to as alternative MIDI controllers.
Depending on your instrumental skills and knowledge, and indeed production style, you have a penchant for the two types, helping the producer in very different ways.
If you prefer VST instruments over samples, you should look for the most realistic keyboard-based MIDI controller with at least 32 keys.
If you do a lot of rhythm and bass work and sampling, you may prefer the simplicity of pad activation.
If you’re not decided yet, sometimes the best route is to go with a mixed medium option that offers the best of both worlds, even if this means you should go for something with fewer piano keys, you can always diversify at a later date with a MIDI keyboard for future instrumental use only.
That said, an overly complex model is probably not a great idea for a complete novice, as it may take a little time to learn the strings.
Do you need a MIDI controller for FL Studio?
Technically speaking, your DAW can be operated without any form of MIDI controller, but you will find that your response is much longer and that you will first have to learn the arduous task of how your keyboard maps to the software.
Some people manage to play a computer keyboard like a piano, but the keyboard you have has been designed for typing and really has no regard for velocity in its design.
Electronically produced music always risks sounding too synthetic or cohesive when a band plays a piece of music, there are always nuances that give it character.
In its most simplistic form, this is the dynamics of how smoothly an arpeggio is played or how hard a chord is played. Which is difficult to recreate with a computer keyboard.
But through a MIDI controller designed to capture the speed more cunningly, it can be translated without the need to enter and draw the speed by hand with a mouse that can be done but it is very complicated.
Similarly, controlling a VST drum kit to create an authentic-sounding beat, and relying on reflections of a fraction of a second from a computer mouse or keyboard for something as crucial as tempo, is best with a kit designed for the task in question.
Mastering your DAW with a mouse can take a lot more patience, especially when it comes to filtering settings in terms of your EQ, if you don’t have a mouse wheel to help out a little it can be difficult to click and select a virtual dial and adjust levels.
So, which is the best for right now?
The best midi keyboard for fl studio really depends on what type of midi keyboard you are looking for, what level of performance you are on, and how you want to use it. Our best choice for the best fingerstyle acoustic guitars is the Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII.
We chose this one because it gives you everything you need for a pleasant guitar playing experience – great design is needed to go with the gear and most importantly, wonderful authentic sound. This combination of price, quality, and appearance makes this guitar our best option.
Final Words
As you will have seen from our picks, the market has a lot to offer in terms of handling your audio workstations and it really just depends on the type of control you prefer. With midi keyboards, the market has a lot to offer, and choosing the best one isn’t a walk in the park, especially if you don’t know your needs. Your personal needs are key when buying a midi controller.
It is a versatile product that can be used by musicians and producers of all levels.
Based on popular research and ratings, you can trust our top seven choices to be the best Midi keyboard for FL studio in the market. The list has something for everyone, be it an advanced musician, an amateur producer, or a beginner.
Your FL Studio workflow will go a long way if you buy any MIDI keyboard. You will spend seconds instead of minutes recording ideas and control of the workstation will be easier. And once you get on those drum pads, it will only be a matter of time when you start sounding like a real drummer.
