BY Bernie Taupin  | Last updated: April 7, 2025

Best Keyboard For Making Beats 2025 : My Recommendations

When I was searching for best keyboard for making beats to improve my performance and make my work easier, I wanted something that offered both quality and value. After exploring various options, I found a few standout choices that deliver impressive features and reliability. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, these products offer a seamless experience tailored to your needs.

Product Overview

After testing several options, I discovered that not all best keyboard for making beats are created equal. I focused on key aspects like performance, durability, and ease of use. Some models stood out for their superior build quality, while others offered advanced features that made a real difference. Finding the right balance between these factors helped me choose the best fit for my specific requirements.

Performance and Usability

Using best keyboard for making beats firsthand gave me a clear understanding of what works best in real-life scenarios. Some products excelled in precision and efficiency, while others impressed me with their ergonomic design. Whether I needed something lightweight for on-the-go use or a more robust option for heavy-duty tasks, I found choices that met my expectations.

The 5 best keyboard for making beats:

  • AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3
  • M-WAVE 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
  • AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2
  • MIDI Keyboard Controller
  • M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 - 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads, 8 Knobs and Music Production Software Included, White

M-WAVE 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

M-WAVE 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With 8 Backlit Drum Pads, Bluetooth Semi Weighted Professional dynamic keybed 8 Knobs and Music Production,Software Included (Black)

Exploring the M-WAVE 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The M-WAVE 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller has quickly become one of my favorite tools for making music. Right from the moment I opened the box, I could tell it was something special. It came well-packaged with no signs of damage, which is always a relief when awaiting new gear!

The first thing that caught my eye was the slick black finish of this keyboard. It's compact and lightweight, perfect for moving around with ease. Plus, it's Bluetooth-equipped, which lets me hook it up wirelessly, making it a solid companion for all my portable music-making adventures.

One of the standout features of the M-WAVE keyboard is the eight backlit drum pads. They are a joy to play with and really enhance the creativity I can bring to each recording session. The drum pads light up with a cool glow that adds an extra layer of fun when jamming out to new beats.

When it comes to performance, this keyboard delivers, and then some. The semi-weighted keys provide a responsive and dynamic playing experience, making it feel like I'm touching real piano keys. This is perfect for any music enthusiast, whether you're playing melodies or experimenting with chords. The keyboard is also super user-friendly, perfect for both beginners and seasoned music lovers.

Setup is a breeze! The keyboard connects easily to my iPad, and with the included software, MIDI mapping is a piece of cake. I plug it in, and it's ready to play with GarageBand – no additional drivers or complex installations to worry about.

For features and variety, the M-WAVE keyboard does not disappoint. It has volume knobs, modulation wheels, and pitch bends, which give me the freedom to add detailed nuances and layers to my sound creations. Switching between different instruments is simple too, allowing me to keep my sessions creative and fun.

Another positive of this keyboard is its battery performance. It's rechargeable and the battery lasts a long time, so I can focus on my music without worrying about constant recharging. It's a small detail that makes a big difference, especially during extended sessions.

Although it's packed with such neat features, one might think it's only suitable for music experts. However, it's versatile and approachable enough for anyone dipping their toes into music production, especially with software like Logic Pro on an iPad. This adds to its appeal as a smart investment for any musician, particularly those on a budget.

In all, the M-WAVE 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller is a remarkable piece of equipment. Its combination of portability, ease of use, and solid performance makes it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to explore their musical talents, providing great value for its price!

AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2

AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2 - 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller for Clip Launching with Ableton Live Lite, 40 RGB Pads and 8 Rotary Knobs

Exploring the World of Music with the AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2

When I first got my hands on the AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2, my excitement was through the roof. Having previously enjoyed the APC40 mkII model, I was eager to explore its younger sibling, especially since it comes with a compact, well-thought-out design that packs a lot of functionality. At first glance, the solid build quality immediately stood out, and I knew this little powerhouse was going to be a fantastic addition to my music creation setup.

The APC Key 25 MK2 isn't just about good looks; it's designed to be easy to use, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned musicians alike. The interface is straightforward, and the excitement only grows as you start diving into its capabilities. The 25-key USB MIDI keyboard controller is accompanied by 40 RGB pads and 8 rotary knobs, opening up a wide range of possibilities for creating awesome sounds. Even though it’s small, it certainly packs a punch.

One of the most alluring features is its seamless integration with Ableton Live Lite. Recording and managing clips in session view has never been easier. I found myself enjoying the process of capturing ideas and then shaping them just how I wanted. By simply hitting the designated record button next to the play/record button, I could trigger clips to guide my project's direction effortlessly. Once I finished, a swift switch back to arrangement view recorded it all. For an affordable price, it's truly a tool that enhances your workflow.

One should note that while it’s an incredible piece of equipment, there is room for improvement. Expanding its software compatibility and introducing an Android app would certainly enhance its functionality and appeal to an even broader audience. However, with the current setup, it's still pretty versatile and a fantastic value for what it costs.

Durability is another strong suit of the APC Key 25 MK2. It’s definitely made to last, which reassures me as I plan to make a lot of music with it for many years to come. The compact size does not compromise its solid build, making it a reliable companion, whether you're in the studio or on the move.

In conclusion, the AKAI Professional APC Key 25 MK2 is a great addition to any music enthusiast’s toolkit. Whether you’re starting your musical journey or are well on your way, this MIDI keyboard controller delivers a fantastic mix of usability and performance, all bundled with the durability and reliability you expect from AKAI. I've truly enjoyed the process of making music with it, and its ability to transform my musical ideas into reality is simply delightful.

MIDI Keyboard Controller

MIDI Keyboard Controller 25 Keys, Beat Maker Machine with Carry Bag, OLED Display, TempoKEY USB Midi Keyboard with Drum Pads for Music Production, Black

MIDI Keyboard Controller: My Personal Experience

When I stumbled upon the MIDI Keyboard Controller with 25 keys, I wasn't immediately sold. Having owned an old M-Audio MIDI keyboard that had sadly seen better days, I knew it was time for an upgrade. However, I was dubious about finding something that could match, if not exceed, the function and affordability of my old keyboard. Space is always a premium in my setup, so finding something compact was just as essential as finding something affordable. Luckily, this MIDI keyboard controller seemed to offer the perfect solution.

From the start, I noticed how small and lightweight it was compared to other options I'd considered. Its compact size doesn't compromise its usability, though. With a built-in carrying bag, it fits neatly into my creative setup and is ideal for musicians who are frequently on the move. This meant immediate thumbs-up for being so portable. It's evident the designers thought about practical features musicians need.

Though initially unfamiliar with the brand, I decided to give it a chance, and I’m thrilled I did! This little powerhouse has inspired me to dust off some of my old compositions and start creating music again. Setting it up with my Mac Mini, Windows Desktop, and laptop was surprisingly easy thanks to its compatibility. No over-complicated processes here, thankfully. For me, its versatility is one of its strongest selling points.

The keyboard sports an OLED display and drum pads, adding extra creativity to my music-making sessions. At such an attractive price of under $100, it's a great deal. The fun began when I started experimenting with the drum pads and pitch bend. They offer a level of flexibility and creativity that extends far beyond basic function, and I found myself enjoying the possibilities they brought. Although the hardware feels a little delicate, it functions superbly, which truly speaks to its value.

Of course, it's not without some minor limitations. The keyboard can come across as slightly flimsy, which is expected at the given price. Despite this, it hasn't hindered my creative process, nor has it failed me during use. As someone still pulling together a comprehensive synth and sampler setup, this keyboard has proven itself to be an invaluable addition. I can see it becoming a staple once my studio is fully operational.

In conclusion, if you're in the market for a MIDI Keyboard Controller that won't break the bank, yet offers ample features and enormous creativity potential, this one is worth a look. It's inspired me to revive my passion for music-making, which is perhaps the greatest feature of all. I'm optimistic it will do the same for any aspiring musician searching for a capable and convenient controller.

M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini

M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini – 32 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With Beat Pads, MIDI assignable Knobs, Buttons & Faders and Software Suite Included

Exploring the M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini

As someone who enjoys making music and creating new compositions, I always look for tools that balance efficiency and creativity. Recently, I decided to add a new gadget to my collection, the M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini. This little MIDI keyboard controller has changed how I make music, both in my home office and on my travels.

Setting up the Oxygen Pro Mini was a bit of a puzzle at first. It took me some time to figure out all the features and configuration settings. However, once I got the hang of it, I found its presets handy. The keyboard is designed with presets that help you start making music with different DAWs, digital audio workstations, right away. I mostly use it with PreSonus Studio One, and I was thrilled to discover that it integrates quite seamlessly.

The keys on the Oxygen Pro Mini are semi-weighted and feel nice to the touch, though they are smaller than those on a full-sized keyboard. But this doesn't bother me much because the compact size is perfect for my small office space and convenient for travel. The beat pads are also a solid addition, although they feel a bit stiff, which took some getting used to. Still, they are responsive enough to use effectively in my music-making process.

One of the features I appreciate most is the versatility of this MIDI controller. It’s not restricted to just one type of DAW, unlike some other brands, which makes it available for creative expression regardless of your DAW preference. The Oxygen Pro Mini comes with a variety of sounds and features, including several VSTs and even a DAW of its own, called MPC Beats. If you're interested in sample-based music and loop building, it's got you covered.

During the holidays, I was excited to gift this to my fiancé, and I'm happy to say he loves it as much as I do. Watching him create amazing sounds and seeing how easily it fits his laptop setup only reinforced my positive experience. Once the initial setup was complete, it proved to be a reliable part of our musical adventures, smoothly performing as expected.

The M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini stands out because it isn’t tied down to a single software, like Ableton Live, which is often the case with other MIDI controllers. It does come with a free version of Ableton Live Lite, but its integration with PreSonus Studio One is where it shines for me. After spending just a few hours exploring the setup, I wholeheartedly recommend this for anyone who wants a versatile, portable, and strong-performing MIDI controller.

This little device has certainly become one of my favorites for music production, and it seems like a solid choice for anyone looking to explore their musical creativity without hassle. Whether you’re an amateur musician or someone more seasoned, the Oxygen Pro Mini is a worthy addition.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right best keyboard for making beats can make all the difference in performance and creativity. After thorough testing, I found that the best choices strike a perfect balance between quality, functionality, and affordability. No matter your level of experience, having a reliable product can truly elevate your results.