MIDI controllers make song writing around in Logic Pro X much easier. Gone are the days of using your computer keyboard as a synth, because once you plug in your MIDI controller, you’ll be able to control all of your parameters and software instruments direct from the controller.
Most all MIDI controllers work with almost all DAWs, but we’ve triple checked all of the MIDI controllers in our buyer’s guide to ensure that they’ll work with Logic Pro X.
Good MIDI controllers range from about $50 to $500.
If this is your first ever MIDI controller you might want to start with an inexpensive option, and if you’re building up your high end gear collection, well you might want to look into a pricier MIDI controller that you’ll be using for the long haul ahead.
What To Look For In a MIDI Controller For Logic Pro X:
- Value – You don’t want to overspend on a MIDI controller if you’re only using it to add some layers to your sound, however if you’re going to be using this MIDI controller to make a majority of your music then why not go all out on this device.
- Size – If you want a lot of keys because your mainly going to be using your MIDI controller as a keyboard, then make sure the MIDI controller you use has almost a full sized keyboard on it.
- Design – Some MIDI controllers feel cheap, but they still get the job done. We prefer MIDI controllers that have a high resale value because of their immaculate design and because they feel nice to play.
- Features – Some MIDI controllers have motorized knobs, so that as you adjust settings on your DAW you’ll see the motorized faders actually moving on your MIDI controller. Features like this really provide a premium experience, and help keep the resale value of your MIDI controller quite high.
Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII | 25-Key Ultra-Portable USB MIDI Drum Pad & Keyboard Controller with Joystick
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Our 2nd option the MPK Mini MKII is a compact MIDI controller and one of the most highly reviewed affordable MIDI controllers on the market. With over 1000 positive customer reviews on amazon alone, the Akai Professional MP Mini MKII seem to be without a doubt the go to choice for many musicians. For only $99 the MP Mini MKII definitely has one of the best price points in the MIDI controller market. This is an extremely affordable MIDI controller with all of the features you’d expect from a more expensive unit.
There are 8 different pads which can be assigned to anything you’d like, as well as 8 different control knobs to tweak your sounds along the way. Additionally, the added control stick in the upper left hand corner creates a whole new way to manipulate your sounds.
Nektar Panorama P6 61-key MIDI Controller Keyboard
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The Nektar Panorama P6 comes in a 49 key and 61 key model. Both models work with multiple DAW’s including Logic Pro X, Reason, Bitwig Studio, Cubase, Garageband and many more. The Nektar Panorama P6 features a 100 MM alps motorized fader, 12 pads with velocity sensitivity, 10 assignable LED buttons, nine 45mm faders, and much more. The Nektar Panorama P6 is really the all in one MIDI controller you need for logic pro X.
It’s sleek design manages to include all of the components and abilities you’d expect from a high end MIDI controller, while fitting within a stylish and compact package.
M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV | 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller (8 Pads / 8 Knobs / 9 Faders)
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The M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is another full sized MIDI keyboard option that comes in 25 key, 49 key, and 61 key models. With 8 pads, 8 knobs, and 9 faders this is a versatile little MIDI controller that doesn’t leave any options off the table. Additionally the synth keys are velocity sensitive, so you can get just the right tone and feel from your playing.
There’s also a sustain pedal input for further tone manipulation allowing you to get the exact sound you’re after. It’s easy to see why the M-Audio Oxygen 49 MKIV is such a popular choice among musicians looking for a reliable MIDI controller. Its small size and many keys make it convenient and portable.
Akai Professional MPK261 | 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller with LCD Screen (16 Pads / 8 Knobs / 8 Faders)
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The Akai Professional MPK261 features 16 programmable pads, 8 knobs, and 8 faders. If you liked the Akai professional mini then you’re sure to love the Aka Professional MPL261 full sized MIDI keyboard & controller. The full size keys on this keyboard are semi weighted and pressure sensitive so you’ll get both a realistic feel when you play and a more accurate performance recorded to your DAW.
The Akai Professional MPK261 comes in 25, 49, and 61 key models so if you’re a more serious keyboardist then you’ll want to obviously grab the 61 key model. The 25 key model is cheapest while the 61 key will cost you about twice as much so there’s a big price difference between all 3 units.
We personally use Akai brand ourselves for all of our MIDI devices and we love them. They’re affordable, reliable, tiny, and the perfect complement to your music room.
Arturia 230421 KeyLab 49 Hybrid USB/MIDI Keyboard Controller
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Last on our list is the Arturia 230421 KeyLab 49, there’s actually a new model of this device out now, but we went with the older model because of it’s proven track record as an excellent & affordable MIDI controller for logic pro x.
The Arturia 230421 KeyLab 49 has all of the features you would except from a mid range MIDI keyboard controller including 49 semi weighted keys with velocity sensitivity, 16 velocity sensitive pads, 9 sliders, and 10 assignable switches.
Takeaways
No matter what MIDI controller you end up purchasing, the truth is you really can’t go wrong. Most MIDI controllers are relatively the same, except some have the added benefit of velocity sensitize keys and pads, as well as semi-weighted keys for a more realistic keyboard feel, and motorized knobs if you’re spending countless hours editing in logic pro x.
Make sure you stay within your budget and go with a MIDI controller that checks all of the boxes for you personally. If you looked into all of the MIDI controllers on our list and still decided that none of these were for you, then let us know so we can improve our MIDI controller’s buyer’s guide.
I started Music Store Central with one simple goal, to help answer all the questions that I know other musicians have. I wanted to make buying new instruments and gear for your passion completely effortless.