CME Xkey

^# 28

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$85.00 to $139.00 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (28)

3 Critic Reviews

8 Reviews

All time low price

Find out who is using CME Xkey

1 community setup

8 wishlisted

51 saved

Page last updated Jun 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated May 29, 2026.

Store

Reviews

Price

4.0 (5)

$139.00

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5.0 (2)

$139.00 3 available New

$99.00 1 available Used

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4.3 (82)

$85.00

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Average Price: $116

Budget/Beginner

$200

$501+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Keyboard Controllers category, CME Xkey is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "CME Xkey". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Meet the CME Xkey, a game-changing MIDI keyboard controller that truly redefines the blend of design and functionality. It's not just about its ultra-slim profile, but also the high-level playability it offers. This controller boasts an elegantly crafted aluminum chassis that not only looks sleek but also ensures durability. The Xkey takes portability to a whole new level with its lightweight design making it an ideal companion for musicians on the go.

The true magic of the Xkey lies in its unique chiclet key mechanism. This feature guarantees that each key depresses evenly regardless of where your fingers land, thereby enhancing playability and response speed. The full-size keys, complete with slightly elevated black keys, provide comfortable key separation for a more natural playing experience.

The CME Xkey is not just a pretty face, it comes fully loaded with advanced sensing technology that delivers 128 levels of velocity sensitivity and full polyphonic aftertouch. The high-resolution pitch bend and modulation buttons utilize continuous MIDI control data to give you full control over your music.

This MIDI keyboard controller is a true embodiment of versatility. Its class-compliant USB connection makes it compatible with a wide range of devices including iOS, Android, Microsoft Surface Pro, Mac, and PC. The Xkey is fully USB bus powered, freeing you from the hassle of carrying around a power supply or spare batteries.

Key Features:

Ultra-slim and full-featured MIDI controller keyboard
Precision cut aluminum frame with 25 full-sized keys
Chiclet key mechanism for even key depression
128 levels of velocity sensitivity and full polyphonic aftertouch
High-resolution pitch bend and modulation buttons
Octave up and down buttons for an extended note range
Fully USB bus powered and firmware updatable via USB
Plug-and-play compatibility with most operating systems, including iOS
Lightweight and portable, perfect for musicians on the go.

Product specs

Type	Keyboard Controller
Number of Keys	25
Type of Keys	Synth, Full-sized Keys
Velocity Sensitive	Yes
Aftertouch	Yes
Other Controllers	Pitchbend Button, Modulation Button
MIDI I/O	USB
OS Requirements - Mac	OS X 10.9 or later, iOS 4.2 or later
Power Supply	USB Powered
Height	0.62"
Width	15.27"
Depth	5.31"
Weight	1.32 lbs

FAQs

Is the CME Xkey 25 compatible with iOS devices?: Yes, the CME Xkey 25 is compatible with iOS devices running iOS 4.2 or later, making it a convenient option for mobile music production.
Does the CME Xkey 25 have velocity-sensitive keys?: Yes, the CME Xkey 25 features velocity-sensitive keys, allowing for expressive playing dynamics.
What type of connectivity does the CME Xkey 25 offer?: The CME Xkey 25 connects via USB, providing easy integration with computers and compatible devices.
Does the CME Xkey 25 offer polyphonic aftertouch?: Yes, the CME Xkey 25 includes polyphonic aftertouch, enabling nuanced control over individual notes for more expressive performances.
How portable is the CME Xkey 25?: The CME Xkey 25 is highly portable, weighing only 1.32 lbs and featuring a slim profile, making it easy to carry for mobile musicians.

Videos

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Sweetwater

CME Xkey Portable Keyboard Controller Demo with Daniel Fisher - iOS Update Vol. 59

Sweetwater

CME XKey 37 Review

David Wallimann

Review: CME XKey37 Portable MIDI Keyboard - SoundsAndGear.com

SoundsAndGear

CME Xkey Air 37-key Bluetooth MIDI Controller Review by Sweetwater

Sweetwater

CME Xkey 25 Review - Is this thing any good?! #TTNM

THE TUESDAY NIGHT MACHINES

CME Xkey MIDI Controller - Practical Review | Audio Mentor

Reuben Chng

NAMM 2013 CME XKey Keyboard Controller

SoundsAndGear

Reviews

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PROS

Perfectly-sized and light for travel, fits in backpacks
Surprisingly good touch sensitivity for its weight
Full-sized piano keys accommodate larger fingers
Aluminum body with high-quality build and design
Polyphonic aftertouch on nearly full-sized keys
Seamless integration with iOS, Android, Windows, and Mac OSX
Encourages experimentation with responsive playing action
Has a classy, simplistic design that blends in with any setup
Solid enough for regular travel without damage
Octave shifting keys aid in easy composition

CONS

Lacks a slider pad for nuanced pitch bend mods
USB cord placement on the right side can be inconvenient
Some users report poor build quality and noisy keys
Key issues including non-functional lower octave and pitch/mod buttons
The last CME branded key may break under pressure
Octave shifting keys have an uncomfortable rubberized feel
Lack of velocity sense as noted by some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about CME Xkey.

Build quality

0 0

The keys are smooth, shiny plastic, which may accumulate micro scratches over time if frequently transported in a bag.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The pitch bend and modulation keys are pressure-sensitive rubber keys, unlike traditional wheels, allowing for variable expression without full bends every press.
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Unique scissor switch design lets keys be pressed with the same action from all angles, beneficial for playing certain chords.
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0 0

The width of the Xkey's keys feels natural, yet the shallow keybed can be more noticeable due to this design choice.
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0 0

The Xkey Air's keys have a crisp break, providing a tactile response unlike the mushy feel of the nanokey studio.
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User experience

0 0

The key action resembles chiclet keys but offers more travel, allowing velocity sensitivity primarily from 20% to 80%.
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0 0

Some owners report inconsistent dynamics with specific keys, suggesting potential quality control issues with the Xkey's keybed.
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Software and compatibility

0 0

Bluetooth MIDI connectivity is straightforward but requires a specific Bluetooth dongle for Windows due to system limitations.
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0 0

Issues with dynamics may not be resolved through the software, indicating limitations in software adjustments for certain hardware inconsistencies.
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Comparisons

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Users find the Xkey easier for traditional piano parts compared to the LUMI, despite similar features like polyphonic aftertouch.
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Setup and maintenance

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Successful connection with the Microfreak requires a Widi Jack, as USB cable connections can be challenging.
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0 0

Optimal aftertouch control is achieved by setting both the Xkey and Microfreak to exponential curves, with aftertouch activating post key bottom-out.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

The Xkey Air is effectively used with the Microfreak in conjunction with a DAW like Ableton Live for enhanced aftertouch control.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review: CME Xkey MIDI Controller - Audio Mentor

audiomentor.com

With its lightweight and portable design, the CME Xkey MIDI Controller impresses with real-sized keys, great latency, and customizable sensitivity levels, all bolstered by a high-quality build. While its flat keys might not appeal to traditional pianists, and the lack of a volume knob is a minor drawback, the Xkey excels as a versatile and expressive tool for both studio and stage. Though slightly pricier than some competitors, its programmability and premium feel make it a top contender in the portable MIDI controller market.

positive

Full Review

CME: Xkey mobile USB MIDI keyboard | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The CME Xkey impresses as a sleek, portable MIDI keyboard, excelling in iOS compatibility and build quality. Its low-profile keys enhance playability, even for non-expert keyboardists, while the Mac-like design and USB power make it convenient for mobile setups. Despite lacking traditional pitch-bend and modulation wheels, Xkey's buttons are adequate for most tasks. Its solid construction and wide compatibility make it a top choice for musicians on the go, overshadowing minor concerns about Micro-USB durability. Overall, it's a standout choice for those seeking a compact, reliable MIDI controller.

positive

Full Review

CME Xkey

soundonsound.com

Full Review

Add review

4.5 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 28 Ratings

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animism

105

almost 7 years ago

XKey is a road warrior

Have faithfully brought my XKey around the world since buying it in early 2016, spanning five continents and a whole host of different set up locations, including parks, beachfront cafes, hotel rooms, airports, and even on the occasional bus or plane. The piano sized keys are very helpful, and they have a mild degree of velocity sensitivity. I like the brushed aluminum look and build, with a classy, simplistic design that hasn't gone out of style and blends in with any setup. It's definitely solid enough for regular travel. Not sure how it will hold up as part of a bigger live setup with proper keys, but it is a trusty companion and reliable studio piece that is irreplaceable in my ultra-light, portable studio rig.

Roles:

Guitarist Keyboardist Composer

Genres:

Electronic Orchestra Orchestral

flrsh

over 11 years ago

Great concept, bad build quality.

When I first saw this product, I fell in love with it. But after all it wasn't worth the €100. And I'll tell you why. It's mainly the build quality that bothered me. The piano keys are perfectly fine, except the last CME branded key, because with a bit of pressure on that key I'll break the plastic bottom frame connected to the aluminium frame eventually. You'd also expect the octave shifting keys to be the same like your chiclet keyboard, but hell no... they're rubberized (made out of rubber) causing a really uncomfortable rebound of the key, and also when you press them down you don't really feel like you've pressed it at all. I don't recommend this product for professional use, but it'll do for portables/small studios I guess.

amosthumanhuman

almost 9 years ago

I take this thing EVERYWHERE

Perfect for home use or portable use, fits in every bag on every trip, great feel to it, ultra-responsive. Great for ideas or punch-ups on the go. It has absolutely no velocity sense as far as I can tell, but that's what sliders are for.