When you are looking to buy a midi keyboard, there are lots of things to consider – size, number of keys, whether it makes it’s own sound or just a controller, etc. I’ve put together a comprehensive list of 3 midi keyboards you can buy for under £80 and we will chat about each of them too.

AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII – £73

This amazing little midi keyboard comes in just under £75 and is an absolute bargain! AKAI is a well-known name in the world on midi controllers and keyboards and with this Mini MKII, you can live up to the AKAI name. This controller has 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys and comes with dedicated octave up and down button controls. You can also plug in and play straight away with no need for drivers. Its USB powered and comes with an ultimate production starter pack including content from Splice, Loopcloud and Serato Studio. Where the deal really comes into play with this keyboard is the 8 backlit velocity-sensitive pads for note repeat and programming drums. All in all at just £73, an amazing deal!


M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 – £42

This is a slightly cheaper option, selling for just £42 only. This M-Audio Keystation is a simpler midi keyboard with a very down to earth feel to it. This keyboard does have more keys than the last boasting a 32 key width compared to the AKAI’s 25. The keys are also velocity-sensitive and capture the feel of the softest movements. Again, no need for drivers, just plug in and play. The octave shift button remains on this one also. This controller comes with a premium software suite including – Pro Tools First M-Audio Edition Performance Software/DAW. For just £42, this surely is a deal to be snapped up.

Alesis V-Mini – £46

Alesis is another household name in midi keyboards and this V-Mini is the perfect keyboard for anyone starting out in electronic music. For just £46, it comes with many features including 25 expressive keys, 4 backlit assignable knobs, and 4 velocity-sensitive drum pads. Not only do you get all this for such a small price but it also includes ProTools First Alesis Edition and Eleven Lite. If that wasn’t enough, they also throw in Mini Grand, DB-33 and Xpand!2 virtual instrument software from Air Tech Music. What a bargain for all that! This is one that every novice or indeed an expert musician should be looking with amazing portability and a stunning finish for only £46.