Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Guitar Center
4.5 (12)
$269.00
Amazon
4.5 (1730)
$198.00 Used
Reverb
5.0 (8)
$134.99 New
$75.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (5)
$269.00
zZounds
5.0 (1)
$199.00

Average Price: $187

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Introducing the Akai Professional MPK225, a 25-Key MIDI Controller that serves as your all-in-one solution for music creation and performance. This compact, yet powerful device combines the best of Akai’s iconic MPC workstations with the latest technology for seamless software integration and enhanced workflow.

Whether you're a seasoned musician or a budding producer, the MPK225 ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips. It features 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, providing a natural feel and dynamic responsiveness. But that’s not all, the MPK225 comes packed with 8 MPC-style pads boasting RGB feedback, 8 assignable knobs, and 4 backlit buttons for instant control over your virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more.

For added versatility, the incredible Octave Up and Down controls let you access the entire melodic range, making it perfect for playing bass lines, piano harmony, solo leads, and more. Plus, with classic MPC Note Repeat and MPC Full Level onboard, you can bring the authentic MPC workflow into your music production.

To top it all off, the MPK225 is USB-powered and optimized to interface directly with your Mac or PC through plug-and-play connectivity, making it a breeze to set up and start making music.

Key Features:

  • 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
  • 8 MPC-style pads with RGB feedback
  • 8 assignable knobs, 4 backlit buttons, and onboard transport buttons
  • Octave Up and Down controls
  • Classic MPC Note Repeat and MPC Full Level
  • Plug-and-play USB connectivity
  • Comprehensive interface for manipulating virtual instruments, effect plugins, DAWs, and more
  • Comes loaded with Ableton Live Lite and MPC Essentials production software
  • Includes Hybrid 3 and SONiVOX Twist virtual synthesizers.

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model MPK225
Finish Black
Year 2014 - 2025
Categories Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 25 Keys
Number of Pads 8 Pads

FAQs

Is the Akai Professional MPK225 compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro?

Yes, the Akai Professional MPK225 is compatible with major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and others. It features dedicated transport controls and assignable Q-Link knobs for seamless integration.

Does the Akai MPK225 require an external power supply?

The Akai MPK225 can be powered via USB connection to your computer, eliminating the need for an external power supply.

How many assignable pads does the Akai MPK225 have?

The Akai MPK225 features 8 backlit MPC-style pads that are velocity-sensitive and can be used for triggering samples, loops, and more.

What is the key action like on the Akai Professional MPK225?

The Akai MPK225 features 25 semi-weighted, full-size keys with velocity sensitivity and aftertouch, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience.

Can the Akai MPK225 be used for live performances?

Yes, the Akai MPK225 is well-suited for live performances with its robust build, responsive keys, and customizable controls, making it a versatile choice for musicians on stage.

GetintheMix

GetintheMix

Akai MPK 225 Compact Controller Keyboard

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK 225 Compact Controller Keyboard by GetintheMix

Akai MPK 225 Compact Controller Keyboard

GetintheMix

GetintheMix

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK 225 MIDI Keyboard Review by Barret's Music

Akai MPK 225 MIDI Keyboard Review

Barret's Music

Barret's Music

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK225 The Best Midi Controller For Ableton (mpk25 vs mpk249 mpk49) by Mickey Martin

Akai MPK225 The Best Midi Controller For Ableton (mpk25 vs mpk249 mpk49)

Mickey Martin

Mickey Martin

Video thumbnail for Akai MPK225 | Promusic by Promusic.az

Akai MPK225 | Promusic

Promusic.az

Promusic.az

Reviews

PROS

  • Instant mapping with Studio One Sphere DAW

  • Easy to use with synths and virtual instruments

  • Includes DAW transport control features

  • Comes with bonus software package

  • Recognized and trusted in professional studios

CONS

  • Some users may need time to fully explore its capabilities

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller.

Features and functionality

  • Saving changes to presets requires using the Preset button, Write button, and data dial, with an option to rename by holding Shift.

    Source
  • The MPK225 offers semi-weighted keys with after-touch, enhancing expressive playability.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Some users experience issues with firmware updates, particularly on Mac, requiring involvement with Akai's website for solutions.

    Source
  • A computer-based editor is recommended for saving and editing presets over using the MPK225's onboard controls.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners often find the MPK225 unexpectedly complex, leading to frustration and abandonment after prolonged setup attempts.

    Source
  • The MPK225's lack of easily accessible online support and troubleshooting guides is a common frustration among users.

    Source
  • Owners praise the ease of using the octave-up/down buttons during live play.

    Source
  • Owners with larger hands find the MPK225 more comfortable than the Mini, which has smaller keys that can be a dealbreaker for some.

    Source

Build quality

  • The pitch bend wheel has a satisfying spring mechanism, aiding in precise note control.

    Source
  • Users often report that the stock pads on the MPK225 lack sensitivity and may need replacing for optimal performance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MPK225 is not as portable as the Mini, requiring a full backpack, while the Mini fits in a small bag—important for those frequently on the move.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MPK225 paired with Logic on an M1 iPad Pro allows for effective on-the-go production work, with seamless iCloud integration for syncing projects.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 20 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mad_matty

So Far, So Good.

I have not had this even a week and I love it. I purchased this as an upgrade from an Alesis V-Mini. I will update this review when I have used it more.

ricardo_machado

Very Nice and Intuitive

Very Nice and Intuitive

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Logic uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Logic

Rapper

The RattPack

...
Verified via Photo

"Who's ready for some new music?" -Logic. Logic was on tour when this picture was posted. So I assume he was using this as a portable MIDI to work on music while on tour.

See how Jordan Fish uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Jordan Fish

Singer, Keyboardist

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via YouTube

Jordan used this keyboard during his performance at the Royal Albert Hall in 2016. It can be seen 3:51 into this video.

See how !llmind uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

!llmind

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

The item can be seen 3:07 into this video

See how Paul Meany uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Paul Meany

Singer, Keyboardist

MUTEMATH

...
Verified via YouTube

The item can be seen 4:25 into this video.

See how Loscil uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Loscil

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

Used in this video of a live performance

See how Aries uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Aries

Singer, Rapper

...
Verified via YouTube

in the description aries put links to the equipment he uses

See how Herobust uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Herobust

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Instagram

Herobust playing with the pitch and mod on the midi

See how Brendan Yates uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Brendan Yates

Singer

Turnstile

...
Verified via YouTube

During Turnstile's performance at Primavera Sound Barcelona 2023, Brendan Yates is seen using the Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller, particularly at the beginning of the show.

See how Noga Erez uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Noga Erez

Singer, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

The Akai Mpk 225 can be seen at 1:00 into this video.

See how Goth Babe uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Goth Babe

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Photo

In a video he posted on his Instagram story, you can see him with the MPK225.

See how Sick Luke uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

Sick Luke

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube
See how The Aston Shuffle uses Akai Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller

The Aston Shuffle

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

Akai MPK225 25-Key Midi Controller spotted in The Aston Shuffle's studio in this Instagram pic.

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 Professional MPK225 25-Key MIDI Controller, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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1
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1
Korg Electribe EMX-1
Korg Electribe EMX-1 Keyboards, Synthesizers & MIDI
1

Community setups

Show yours
zeph

zeph

Gear IQ 134

dj_queenie

dj_queenie

Gear IQ 82

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