Generally, I find that pads in the beginner price range feel cheap and require too much setup-I feel the same way about knobs.

I made a distinct choice not to include a product with drum pads in this beginner category. The simple yet effective keys let you write basic arrangements in a way that feels less like programming songs, and more like playing songs. In contrast to using your computer’s keyboard as a MIDI note input device, or drawing MIDI notes into your DAW manually, the Komplete Kontrol M32 is a much more intuitive option. These keys aren't weighted, so you probably won't be playing a Beethoven masterpiece on this keyboard, but that isn't exactly what this MIDI keyboard is intended for. There are 32 compact, synth-action style keys, which means they’re smaller than average-sized keys. However, when all the specs and features of the keyboard come together, they create a great user experience. What’s interesting about the Komplete Kontrol M32 is that if you look at its features independently, they don't seem that impressive. Native Instruments has always had an incredible track record in the hardware department, putting creativity and workflow first. That’s why I believe that Native Instruments’ Komplete Kontrol M32 is the best MIDI keyboard for beginner producers.

When thinking about the best MIDI keyboard for beginners, I considered the form factor, ease of use, and value. Figure 1: The Komplete Kontrol M32 MIDI keyboard.

Native instruments midi keyboard