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Average Price: $84

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$200

$501+

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Description

The Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard is a compact powerhouse designed for musicians on the go. Perfectly tailored for both beginners and seasoned producers, this MIDI keyboard controller effortlessly bridges the gap between musical creativity and technological innovation. Featuring a 25-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, it offers a tactile and responsive playing experience, ensuring every nuance of your performance is captured. The keyboard is also equipped with backlit MPC-style pads, which are both velocity-sensitive and come with note repeat functionality, making beat creation intuitive and enjoyable.

Beyond its keys and pads, the MPK Mini provides a robust suite of controls, including assignable Q-Link knobs for hands-on control of your favorite DAW parameters and effects. This keyboard doesn't just stop at hardware; it includes a comprehensive software package, featuring MPC Beats, Air Hybrid, and Mini Grand, allowing you to start producing right out of the box. With its USB-powered design, it eliminates the need for an external power supply, making it a true portable solution for music creation.

Whether you’re laying down tracks in the studio or crafting beats in a coffee shop, the Akai MPK Mini adapts to your environment without compromising functionality.

Key Features:

  • 25 velocity-sensitive synth-action keys
  • 8 backlit, velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads with Note Repeat
  • 8 assignable Q-Link knobs for mixing, tweaking plug-ins, and more
  • USB powered, no external power adapter needed
  • Includes MPC Beats, AIR Hybrid, and Mini Grand software
  • Built-in arpeggiator for easy melody creation
  • Compact design ideal for travel and live performances

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPK Mini 25-Key MIDI Controller
Finish Black
Year 2012 - 2014
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Key Size Mini
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 25 Keys
Number of Pads 8 Pads

FAQs

Is the Akai MPK Mini compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and FL Studio?

Yes, the Akai MPK Mini is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and FL Studio, by using it as a MIDI controller to trigger sounds and control parameters.

Does the Akai MPK Mini require an external power supply?

No, the Akai MPK Mini is USB-powered, meaning it receives power directly from your computer when connected via USB, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

How portable is the Akai MPK Mini for mobile music production?

The Akai MPK Mini is highly portable, featuring a compact design with mini keys and a lightweight build, making it ideal for mobile music production and easy to fit in a backpack.

Can I use the Akai MPK Mini with an iPad?

Yes, the Akai MPK Mini can be used with an iPad by using a compatible USB adapter, allowing you to control music apps that support MIDI input.

What type of pads does the Akai MPK Mini feature?

The Akai MPK Mini includes 8 velocity-sensitive pads, which are ideal for finger drumming and triggering samples, enhancing your creative workflow.

Shireworks

Shireworks

Tech Review: Akai MPK mini- Laptop Production MIDI Keyboard

Video thumbnail for Tech Review: Akai MPK mini- Laptop Production MIDI Keyboard by Shireworks

Tech Review: Akai MPK mini- Laptop Production MIDI Keyboard

Shireworks

Shireworks

Video thumbnail for Akai Professional MPK Mini: The Most COMPLETE REVIEW (2020) and instructions by Nerd Musician

Akai Professional MPK Mini: The Most COMPLETE REVIEW (2020) and instructions

Nerd Musician

Nerd Musician

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPK mini - Hands on Review by JRESHOW

AKAI MPK mini - Hands on Review

JRESHOW

JRESHOW

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK mini Keyboard by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Akai MPK mini Keyboard

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

B&H Photo Video Pro Audio

Video thumbnail for AKAI MPK mini Review by Massive Music Academy

AKAI MPK mini Review

Massive Music Academy

Massive Music Academy

Video thumbnail for Akai Professional MPK Mini Laptop Keyboard and Pad Controller Review by hirudov

Akai Professional MPK Mini Laptop Keyboard and Pad Controller Review

hirudov

hirudov

Reviews

PROS

  • Plug-and-play ease of use enhances home recording setups

  • Ideal for beginners with intuitive controls and compatibility with software like Logic Pro

  • Compact and sleek design combines multiple controllers into one for efficiency

  • Highly durable for extensive use, both in-studio and on-the-go

  • Features velocity-sensitive pads for dynamic performance

  • Offers extensive control with assignable knobs and octave control

  • USB powered and highly portable for on-the-road production

  • Compatible with various DAWs and performance software

  • Can be used with Android devices via OTG cable

  • Attractive design, available in different colors for aesthetic preference

CONS

  • Some users report durability issues with keys breaking off

  • Lacks replaceable parts, leading to concerns over long-term use

  • Missing rubber foot can cause instability and noise during use

  • Drum pads and keys may not meet the expectations of all users

  • Lack of a sustain pedal jack limits expression options

  • Some users find the included software and knob integration challenging

  • Reported issues with connectivity and software compatibility

  • The small size and mini keys may not suit all playing styles

  • Pads can be hard to trigger for some, affecting playability

  • Some users find the device's overall sensitivity and responsiveness lacking

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard.

Features and functionality

  • The MPK Mini MK3 includes an OLED display and has improved knob and control placement compared to the previous version.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the MPK Mini's modulation control and built-in drum pads as versatile features for various applications.

    Source

Build quality

  • The keys are noted to feel plastic-y but are reported to be durable enough for a few years of use.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Some users find the included Akai software for configuration unstable on Mac, preferring to map controls directly in their DAW.

    Source
  • Users find that Cakewalk is a recommended free DAW for beginners, offering full functionality to explore music production without initial cost.

    Source
  • The included MPC Essentials software is criticized for being limited to single-track production, rendering it impractical for full song creation.

    Source
  • FL Studio’s unlimited trial is suggested for beginners, though it limits saving projects, offering a balance of features and accessibility for learning.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MPK Mini MK3 is considered a cost-effective tool for creating demos and synthesizing various instrument sounds when space is limited.

    Source
  • The MPK Mini is frequently used for recording lead and bass lines, auditioning sounds, and sound design, though it may be restrictive for complex compositions.

    Source
  • Cakewalk is highlighted for its user-friendly interface, making it a suitable starting point for young producers transitioning from phone apps.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • It's recommended to explore the used market for the MPK Mini, as many users outgrow it, often making it available at a lower cost.

    Source
  • Users suggest considering the MPK Mini as a secondary, portable controller if upgrading to a larger keyboard in the future.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners often find 25 keys sufficient for creating basic parts and melodies, especially if not playing with two hands.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some users who require more keys for complex ideas pair the MPK Mini with larger keyboards like the Keystation 49.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • An external USB sound card is recommended for improved audio quality and performance, suggesting the Behringer UMC22 as a budget-friendly option.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 55 Reviews and 222 Ratings

5 star
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1 star
briantefft

Great Versatile Mobile MIDI Keyboard

Got this as a gift when I was a child before I even had a computer, but as I've grown into hobby production, I haven't had a more versatile MIDI Controller than the OG MPK. I've debated about eventually upgrading to something newer, but it plays it's role perfectly in my arsenal.

odysseyeurobeat

Huge Milage, Tiny Controller

I'm stunned my own MPK Mini isn't broken by now— I use this controller for quite possibly everything. Whether I'm at the airport working on music between flights or on stage performing, this controller is an absolute powerhouse for whatever I throw its way. I upgraded to this from the LPD8, and what an upgrade it was— with two banks of eight drum pads, eight assignable knobs, and 25 keys with octave control, any MIDI parameter is at my command.

Obviously it's not the solution to every problem— if it was an all-in-one solution, I wouldn't need to use it alongside a Mixtrack and MIDI Fighter when I perform. It's stunning how quickly all those knobs and drum pads get taken up, so even if you know what you're doing, you'll end up resorting to the keys for many of the functions you wish you could assign to those pads.

That's my only problem with this controller, and frankly it's not a bad problem to have. For the price I paid for it, it's everything I've wanted it to be and then some. If you need a go-to controller for on the go production or are curious about controllerism as a performance method (and can't afford a QuNeo), this is a fantastic piece of kit!

julianwolf2

Hi! Are you also rock mod? That's cool man! :)

purifiedwater

Cheap, questionably built but VERY Helpful

I've had this Midi Controller to about a year and pretty much have taken so much care of it but the middle C key is pushed out of place (Still works, just looks weird) and it was shipped to me without one of the rubber foots, though it is a very minor problem, when inspiration hits and I'm writing down an idea, the clunking of the plastic (Due to missing a rubber foot) really kicks me out of my zone. Super well built, the pads are so amazing and Acurate for the price, Its good

dom_bishop

Handy on the move

Does the job! Has the fundamentals for a standard midi device. Firm drum pads, easy for creating quick patterns, nice layout and easy to understand without manual. Great for newcomers to electronic production. Powered by USB and small enough to carry around on the road!

evolverman

Multifunctional but Disposable

Knobs map easily to Ableton when used with Launchpad95 midi script (free online). The settings software was a bit of a learning curve. But my biggest problem was that one of the keys snapped off at 11 months. Akai repaired the unit but a year later with warranty lapsed another two keys broke off. The same problem has been reported by others online so be warned - there are no replaceable parts on this.

djstevenhan

?????????

I bought this mpg mini for my travel! I just produce everywhere and I need a small keyboard to input midi signal. Mpk mini is a really nice product for me. It not only have keyboard but also have drum pads and knobs. So with this little keyboard I can produce easily and quickly at the outside of studio!

kyla_vejas

Best mini midi keys

Super reliable, velocity sensitive, smooth, easy to work on. Borrowed it from a friend and played live a whole season on it! Funniest keyboard to use live while putting a groundbraking bass on it from a laptop.

johannes_fechler

very nice for traveling

very light and small device which easily can be transported inside of a backpack. Nice integrated Arp with different modes. Pads are not so good n my opinion and at my device i very often have a connection problem where i have to replug it to my mac.

gonzo_beats

reliable keyboard for on-the-go use

i use this akai keyboard when im on the go for all my courses, it is a really reliable keyboard. you know its going to last because its an akai

jayikalima

Small. Perfect for the producer on-the-go.

This keyboard does a lot for its small size. It's editable to the point where you can change practically all the routings without a hitch with a program on a disk, and it even works on Android via OTG cable.

Pads are responsive, keyboard itself is very snappy and fun to play, and the knobs are fairly precise too. One gripe I have is the lack of a sustain pedal jack; this one only gives you a button to use.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how N99 uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

N99

Music Producer

...
Verified via Namir

N99 is seen using the Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard in a photo on Namir's site, as captioned by Namir Hassan.

See how JALKX uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

JALKX

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Equipboard

In the studio, JALKX uses the MPK mini MK2 for planning out chords and basslines.

See how Geena Duffy uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Geena Duffy

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via Photo

In a Facebook photo, Geena Duffy is shown with the Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard, highlighting her use of this MIDI controller in her setup.

See how Whitey uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Whitey

Rapper, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In 2024, Whitey Pines used an Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard to create a beat, as shown in the user-uploaded photo.

See how 50landing uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

50landing

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post ( https://www.instagram.com/p/B71faT5JW-X/ ), You can see the midi keyboard resting in front of a laptop

See how Larry Washington uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Larry Washington

Drummer, Music Producer

MFSB

...
Verified via All About Jazz Musicians

Larry Washington, a renowned drummer and music producer known for his work across various genres including Hip Hop, Funk, Soul, and Jazz, utilizes the Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard as part of his musical equipment. This detail is substantiated by information provided by All About Jazz, a reliable source dedicated to jazz musicians and their gear.

See how Deejay Error uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Deejay Error

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post shared by Mixxtone, Deejay Error is seen using the Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard.

See how Afrika Islam uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Afrika Islam

Music Producer, DJ

The Rock Steady Crew

...
Verified via Facebook

In this Facebook Photo Afrika Islam shows off his Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard.

See how Tami T uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Tami T

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this performance, we can see the breakdown of Tami's midi machine, composed of the MPK Mini and other keyboards and mixers.

See how Tokyo Prose uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Tokyo Prose

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

An Akai MPK Mini can be in this photo, posted to Tokyo Prose's Instagram.

See how Ahwlee uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

Ahwlee

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube
See how A Himitsu uses Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard

A Himitsu

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this Facebook post by A Himitsu.

Album Usage

The Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai MPK Mini Laptop Production Keyboard, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Apple MacBook Pro (General)
Apple MacBook Pro (General) Computers & Peripherals
5
Apple iMac (General)
Apple iMac (General) Computers & Peripherals
4
Ableton Live
Ableton Live DAW Software
4
Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro DAW Software
4
Yamaha HS80M Active Studio Monitor
Yamaha HS80M Active Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors
2
Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk2
Akai Professional MPK Mini Mk2 MIDI Keyboard Controllers
2
KRK ROKIT 6 G3 Studio Monitor
KRK ROKIT 6 G3 Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors
2
Custom Built PC
Custom Built PC Computers & Peripherals
2
Roland Juno-106
Roland Juno-106 Synthesizers
2

Community setups

Show yours
janoschmoldau

janoschmoldau

Gear IQ 121

heyitsgalaxycreeper

heyitsgalaxycreeper

Gear IQ 78

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