Best 88-Key Fully-Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controllers (Updated Nov 2024)
Finding the best 88 key midi controller can be a challenge, but it’s worth it if you want to get the most out of your music. When choosing a midi controller, there are a few things to consider, such as the type of keys, the number of knobs and faders, and the overall design. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? This article will help guide you through finding the best 88 key midi controller for your needs. Read on for more info!
Best 88-Key Fully-Weighted MIDI Keyboard Controllers
Reviewed and Compared
| Picture | Name | My Verdict | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller | Excellent | Check Price |
|
Alesis Q88 MKII | Versatile | Check Price |
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Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller | Portable | Check Price |
 |
M-Audio Hammer 88 | Easy to Set Up | Check Price |
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Arturia KeyLab 88 Essential 88-Key MIDI Controller | 88 Keys | Check Price |
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Nektar Impact LX88+ | User Friendly | Check Price |
 |
Studiologic SL88 Studio Lightweight Midi Controller | Lightweight | Check Price |
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Akai Professional Road 88 | MIDI Controller | Check Price |
Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller
- It is an excellent choice for any musician looking for a high-quality MIDI controller
- It features velocity-sensitive keys, as well as aftertouch and pitch bend
- It is perfect for playing a wide range of musical styles
- The keyboard also has two assignable control knobs and four backlit buttons
- It allows you to control various parameters in your favorite music software
- It does not produce any sound on its own
- Some users may find that the keys are too lightweight or "springy" feeling
- The soft keys affect a musician’s playing style or technique
The Roland A-88 MKII 88-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller is a midi controller that controls your music software with a keyboard. It has 88 keys to play a wide range of notes and melodies. Plus, it has velocity-sensitive keys that let you create dynamic, expressive performances. And with its built-in USB connectivity, you can easily connect it to your computer or laptop and start making music right away. So if you're looking for a MIDI keyboard controller that's easy to use and packed with features, the Roland A-88 MKII is a great option.
Alesis Q88 MKII
- It is very versatile
- You can use it to control any equipment that supports midi, including computers and synthesizers
- It has 88 keys, which gives you a lot of range to work with
- The keys are velocity-sensitive, meaning that they will respond differently depending on how hard you press them
- It can give you a lot of control over how your music sounds
- It comes with a built-in USB interface, so you can easily connect it to your computer or other devices
- It is not an actual keyboard
- You can't use it to play sounds or melodies directly
- You have to use it to control other devices (e.g., synths, samplers, software instruments, etc.) that generate sound
The Alesis Q88 MKII is a MIDI controller keyboard. It has 88 keys, velocity-sensitive pads, eight knobs, and nine sliders. It's an excellent choice for musicians who want to control their software instruments or DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations). It's also a popular choice for DJs who want to add some hands-on control to their performances.
Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller
- It is an excellent option for those just starting
- It's simple to use
- It has a few basic features that can be expanded upon as you get more comfortable using it
- It has versatility. The Keystation 88 can be used with any software or hardware that accepts MIDI input, making it an excellent option for studio owners or producers who want greater control over their sounds
- It is portable. The lightweight design and small size of the Keystation make it easy to take with you wherever you go
- It doesn't have a lot of features
- It's a primary midi controller, so if you're looking for something with more bells and whistles, this isn't the keyboard for you
- Its keys are not velocity-sensitive, so that you won't create dynamic performances with this keyboard
The Keystation 88 MIDI Keyboard Controller is an affordable, reliable keyboard controller perfect for both beginning and experienced musicians alike. This MIDI controller features 88 full-size keys, pitch and modulation wheels, octave up/down buttons, and several other control options. It also comes with USB connectivity to use with your computer or laptop without any hassle. Whether you're looking for a simple MIDI controller to get started with or a more advanced one for your studio setup, the Keystation 88 is a great option.
M-Audio Hammer 88
- It offers a level of tactile control that traditional keyboard controllers cannot match
- You can literally "feel" the music as you play, which can be an essential advantage when performing live
- It is extremely user-friendly
- It is easy to set up
- It provides a very realistic playing experience
- It is one of the more expensive midi controllers on the market
- It is a bit larger and heavier than some other options, making it less portable
- Some users have reported issues with the build quality, especially with the keys
M-Audio Hammer 88 is a MIDI controller. It means that it doesn't produce any sound on its own but instead sends control signals to other devices that generate the sounds you hear. In this case, the Hammer 88 sends MIDI messages to your computer (or another device), telling it which notes to play and how loudly to play them. This allows you to play piano or other instruments using your computer keyboard or mouse, which can help practice or create music.
Arturia KeyLab 88 Essential 88-Key MIDI Controller
- It is a great MIDI controller for those who want the feel of a real piano
- It has 88 keys and is velocity-sensitive
- You can get a great range of sounds
- It comes with a software suite
- You can get started right away making music
- It is pretty large and heavy
- It is not portable
- Some users have reported that the keys can feel a bit stiff and unresponsive compared to other MIDI controllers on the market
The KeyLab 88 Essential is a top-of-the-line MIDI controller that offers 88 keys for a truly professional playing experience. It also comes with a wide range of assignable controls, making it easy to customize your sound. If you're looking for a top-notch MIDI controller, the KeyLab 88 Essential is worth considering.
Nektar Impact LX88+
- It offers a wide range of features and functions for amateur and professional musicians alike
- It offers a realistic feel when playing
- It includes several assignable buttons and faders, allowing users to create custom setups that perfectly suit their individual needs
- It is a highly versatile MIDI controller
- It is user-friendly
- It doesn't have a built-in audio interface
- You'll need to purchase a separate audio interface to use this controller with your computer
- Some users have reported issues with the Nektar software not working correctly on Mac computers
Nektar Impact LX88+ is a MIDI controller with 88 keys and eight knobs. It allows you to control music software or hardware instruments. The keyboard can be split into four zones, which means you can play different sounds on different parts of the keyboard simultaneously. You can also customize the settings to control various devices, including synths, samplers, and effects processors.
Studiologic SL88 Studio Lightweight Midi Controller
- It is very lightweight
- It is easy to transport
- It is very affordable
- It is an excellent option for those on a budget
- It is highly versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks
- It may not be compatible with all software programs
- It is not velocity-sensitive
- The volume of each note will be the same regardless of how hard or soft you play the keys
The Studiologic SL88 Studio Lightweight Midi Controller is an excellent addition to any studio. It's lightweight and easy to use, making it perfect for on-the-go producers. Plus, the SL88 Studio has a great assortment of features, including velocity and aftertouch sensitivity, making it a must-have for any serious musician.
Akai Professional Road 88
- It is a MIDI controller
- It can control other musical devices, such as synthesizers or drum machines
- It has velocity-sensitive
- It can respond to how hard you play the keys, allowing for more expressive playing
- It is portable
- It is challenging to set up
- It does not come with a power cord
- It is expensive
Akai Professional Road 88 is a MIDI controller that allows you to control your music software easily. It has 88 keys and is velocity-sensitive so that you can play with dynamics and expression. Plus, it comes with built-in USB and MIDI ports so that you can connect it to your computer or other devices without any hassle. If you're looking for a top-quality MIDI controller, the Akai Professional Road 88 should be at the top of your list!
If you are looking for a quality 88 key MIDI controller, look no further. The controllers we have listed above are all excellent choices that will suit the needs of most musicians. We hope this article has helped you find the best 88 key MIDI controller for your needs. Which one did you choose? Let us know in the comments below.