Advice For MIDI Keyboard Controller Just for VSTis in 2026?

[Ryan Teasnob]

I need to replace a MIDI keyboard controller that I used for years (Korg MicroKontrol) and need a new one. I hardly ever used most of the capabilities of that old one. Really all I need it for is to play virtual instruments. I typically just use it with a piano VSTi for figuring our notes and intervals and things, creating quick drum patterns and starts to other instrument parts. I don't play piano, so I never can play it like that. And after creating a measure or two of a part with any instrument, I draw in MIDI notes for the rest of the part(s).

So basically, I don't need drum pads, I don't need to control DAW sliders, etc. Just to trigger instruments. So super simple.

I also want something small so as not to take up too much space - like 37 keys I think.

I use Reaper on a Windows 11 computer.

Thoughts/suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[DM60]

I did a quick search on Mini MIDI controllers. I've been watching some of these synth guys playing different hardware synths and using these controllers. Looks like exactly what you are looking for. Not sure where you are located, but this is just an example:

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/de...bwmckdBnqa8HwLh25IuE-IQ_Aw7wsY_mz3vqJZaWA97nE

 

[Slouching Raymond]

I don't use VSTi instruments, but I do use the Roland Integra7.
I control it over a standard midi cable from a Roland RD64 piano.
This is perfect, as the RD64 has good quality keys, and the roland joystic to the left. And it is small at 5 octaves.
Sadly the RD64 was discontinued shortly after I bought mine. They may be washing around second hand.

I did buy a Novation Impulse 61, but don't really think much of it.
They do a 49 key version.

The keys on cheap controllers seem to be too cheap & nasty.
If I were looking today, I'd look at using a cheap piano as a controller.

 

[Papanate]

I am partial to the Arturia KeyLab Essential mk3 - about $240 new - Used about $100 - I would buy used.
I know you said you don’t need drumpads - but it has 8 pads - which along with the many controls sets it
up to be used for any production.

 

[Ryan Teasnob]

Thanks for the input. I really need it to be small - like maximum of 37 keys.

I did a quick search on Mini MIDI controllers. I've been watching some of these synth guys playing different hardware synths and using these controllers. Looks like exactly what you are looking for. Not sure where you are located, but this is just an example:

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/de...bwmckdBnqa8HwLh25IuE-IQ_Aw7wsY_mz3vqJZaWA97nE

That's actually perfect! I wonder how it escaped my previous searches. And for $45, it's at least worth a try. Thanks for the tip!