22 Best Midi Controllers For Logic Pro X 2025, Keyboard Number 6 Is My Favorite

There are many Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) out there. The accepted industry standard is Pro Tools, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of composers, sound designers, producers and engineers that prefer other DAWs.

I know at least a couple of engineers, for instance, that love Logic. And, from what I’ve seen, Logic is awesome. Its workflow, frankly, might be even better than that of Pro Tools.

Anyway, in this guide we’re going to be looking at the best MIDI controllers for Logic. If you’re here, we assume it’s because a) you’re new to Logic, b) you're in the market for a MIDI controller, or c) you’re looking to replace your existing MIDI controller.

Either way, here are our top MIDI controllers that work great for Logic.

Korg TRTK49 USB MIDI Controller With TRITON Engine

The Korg TRTK49 USB MIDI controller isn’t the cheapest unit by any means. And, while it works a lot like any other MIDI controller, it comes with some features that make it stand out.

This keyboard comes with the TRITON engine (512 program sounds), built-in KAOSS pad for control change or phrase generation (also works as track pad with click), a full assortment of assignable controls (eight sliders, eight knobs, eight switches, dedicated DAW transport switches) and full transport control.

You also get a semi-weighted keyboard for enhanced feel. Many piano players and purists prefer the feel of semi-weighted or weighted keys to synth action keys, but that's certainly a matter of preference.

Buyers liked that this was a full-on MIDI controller with stage piano functionality. They also liked the sounds.

Some didn’t like that you couldn’t alter or save sounds or tweak the effects. Granted, you should be able to do a lot with each sound within your DAW, so if you’re buying this as a synth or stage piano, you should probably look in that category or products instead.

The Korg TRTK49 represents a great concept overall, though we don’t think it’s for everyone. Still worthy of inclusion on this list.

Item weight: 8.38 lbs.

Package dimensions: 32.9 x 5.7 x 15.6 inches

Akai Professional MPK249 | 49 Key Semi-Weighted USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

Not to be confused with the MPK49 introduced earlier, the Akai Professional MPK249 MIDI controller comes in 25-key, 49-key and 61-key configurations.

This model features 49 semi-weighted, velocity sensitive full-size keys, premium piano style key bed, 16 RGB illuminated MPC style pads, each with four banks for a total of 64 pads (for triggering samples, loops, one shots, melodies and more), 24 assignable Q Link controllers comprising eight control knobs, faders and switches for hassle free mapping and control.

It also comes with five pin MIDI input and output and MPC mainstay controls (MPC Note Repeat, arpeggiator, MPC Full Level, Tap Tempo and Time Division).

Also included are Ableton Live Lite, Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Twist 2.0 and Akai Pro MPC Essentials as downloads.

The good – buyers loved the price, feel and functionality of this MIDI controller. Also a popular MIDI controller by Logic Pro experts.

The bad – some found it a little difficult to play (stiff keys). Aside from that, most problems people experienced were platform specific or minor gripes.

Item weight: 12.49 lbs.

Package dimensions: 12.3 x 29.1 x 3.4 inches

Nektar P4 DAW Controller

The Nektar P4 DAW controller is an advanced MIDI controller with 49 ultra-expressive synth action keys and aftertouch, 90+ MIDI and QWERTY keystroke assignable controls, 100mm ALPS motorized hi-res faders for detailed mixes, and mute, solo and fader channel buttons.

The P4 allows for deep integration with Logic Pro, Reason, Cubase, Nuendo, Reaper, Bitwig Studio and Studio One.

You also get fully programmable real time controls, 20 user presets, 12 pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, TFT color display and more.

The good – motorized faders work well and even stand the test of time. DAW integration works well. Keys feel great.

The bad – some noted that it was a little too expensive for what you get, and those thoughts are not entirely unfounded. But the Nektar Technologies controller remains a rather interesting entry on this list.

Item weight: 17.75 pounds

Package dimensions: 33.3 x 13.2 x 3.9 inches

Akai Professional MAX25 | 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard & Drum Pad Controller

The high-end Akai Professional MAX25 comes with 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, four LED touch faders for hands-on expression, eight MPC pads with MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing and AkaiConnect software for mapping to VST plugins/instruments.

It also features four pad banks and four fader banks for a total of 64 assignable pads, faders and buttons, built-in step sequencer and expanded arpeggiator, CB and Gate outputs (1V/Oct), Mackie Control and HUI modes for controlling just about any synth or MIDI instrument.

Customers found this keyboard to be sturdy, portable, responsive and intuitive.

Some found the keys on the Akai to be unreliable, stiff and inconsistent with velocity, but they are in the minority.

Item weight: 7.28 lbs.

Package dimensions: 17.1 x 13 x 3.2 inches

Akai Professional MPK49 | 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller With MPC Pads

The Akai Professional MPK49 comes with 49 full-sized semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 12 pads, eight faders, eight knobs, 12 genuine MPC pads for percussion programming, eight full-sized sliders with three controller banks for 24 sliders total, MMC/MIDI transport controls and plug and play USB connection for Macs and PCs.

No driver installation is required for the Akai, and manufacturer claims it’s perfect for Logic, Cubase, Studio One, Reaper, Digital Performer, Ableton and more.

Buyers appreciated the size, feel and build of the keyboard. Some felt that they could find better for less money though.

Item weight: 12.8 lbs.

Package dimensions: 28.7 x 11.8 x 3.9 inches

M-Audio Axiom 61 61-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The M-Audio Axiom 61 comes with 61 piano style, semi-weighted keys, nine mixer style faders, eight smooth rotary encoders for hands-on control over your DAW, angled top panel and centrally positioned LCD for better ergonomics, DirectLink mode for mapping onboard controls to DAW mixer parameters and Axiom Instrument Maps for instant access to virtual instrument parameters.

The good – buyers loved the plug and play design of the keyboard as well as the responsiveness of its various functions.

The bad – not much. Some said the keyboard occasionally becomes unresponsive and needs to be restarted.

We find that both hardware and software components occasionally need to be restarted regardless of how stable they are, so we can’t hold this against the M-Audio controller.

Item weight: 16.5 lbs.

Package dimensions: 40 x 11 x 15 inches

Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 | High-Performance USB/MIDI Wireless Keytar Controller

Now for something a little different.

The Alesis Vortex Wireless 2 comes with 37 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch, eight RGB backlit velocity sensitive trigger pads, eight backlit faders for controlling volumes or VST instrument parameters and embedded MIDI-assignable tilt sensor performance control with on/off button, thumb-controlled volume slider and reversible pitch-bend wheel on neck.

You also get USB receiver for wireless connection to Mac or PC, as well as production software package, including Pro Tools | First Alesis Edition, Ableton Live Lite, plus DB-33, Eleven Lite, Mini Grand, Hybrid 3, Loom 2, Vacuum Pro, Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech and TimewARP by Way Out Ware.

Buyers liked that this unit was light and ergonomic. Some felt the keys or shape could be improved upon and some said they would have liked more support and instructions to go with the keytar.

You could use this unit as a standard tabletop keyboard as well as a keytar that hangs around your neck. But this keyboard is probably for the most dedicated keytarists, especially those looking for a live MIDI controller.

So, if this Alesis isn’t what you have in mind, I’d suggest finding another suitable USB powered table on this list.

Item weight: 6.61 lbs.

Package dimensions: 2.6 x 35.2 x 10.9 inches

Roland A-500PRO-R 49-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Roland A-500PRO-R MIDI controller comes with velocity-sensitive 49-keys with channel after touch, 45 assignable controls (knobs, sliders, buttons, transport and more), USB Bus power (AC adaptor optional) and eight dynamic pads for finger drumming and MIDI triggering.

The Roland also comes with sure-grip pitch bend/modulation stick and support for sustain and expression pedals (not included). It works with any DAW on Mac or PC.

So, here’s another versatile unit that’s been built for use with a variety of platforms. It's actually been rated best keyboard controller for Logic Pro X by industry experts.

Item weight: 12 lbs.

Package dimensions: 37 x 14 x 7 inches

M-Audio Code 49 | USB MIDI Controller With 49-Key Velocity Sensitive Keybed

The M-Audio Code 49 comes with 49 full-size, velocity and pressure sensitive keys with aftertouch, custom keybed for precise action, four assignable zones for splits and layering, 16 fully assignable velocity sensitive trigger pads for production, clip launching and more.

With the Code 49, you also get eight assignable 360 encoders combined with nine assignable faders and buttons for controlling your DAW and VSTs, fully assignable Ableton-friendly XY pad for HID control, Mackie/HUI transport control, USB bus powered design and five-pin MIDI in and out.

The software bundle is made up of Code Series Software Editor, Ableton Live Lite and virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech (Hybrid 3 and Loom).

Buyers liked the feel of the keybed, the included features as well as the interface’s layout.

Some weren’t so enthusiastic, but most of their criticisms were platform specific (not Logic related).

Item weight: 9.9 lbs.

Package dimensions: 10 x 33.9 x 2.8 inches

Roland A-300PRO-R 32-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

The compact Roland A-300PRO-R MDI controller comes with 32 velocity sensitive keys with channel after touch, 45 assignable controls (knobs, sliders, buttons, transport and more), eight dynamic pads for finger drumming and MIDI triggering and USB bus powered design (AC adapter optional).

Its software bundle includes Cakewalk Production Plus Pack.

Buyers found the Roland to be sturdy, inexpensive, reliable and portable. 32-key controllers are somewhat of a rare breed, so for those who like it, they like it a lot.

Others said this isn’t a pro level MIDI controller and said some of the components feel a little cheap.

Item weight: 6.4 lbs.

Package dimensions: 27 x 13 x 7 inches

Alesis VI49 | 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Alesis VI49 comes with 49, full-sized, square front, semi-weighted keys with after touch, USB MIDI and five-pin MIDI Out, 16 velocity sensitive trigger pads, 16 assignable knobs, 48 buttons and production software (although we assume you won’t need the extra software).

With the VI49, you can open and close filters on virtual synthesizers, adjust volume levels in your mix, activate effects and more.

The velocity sensitive trigger pads come with illuminated RGB feedback for beat production and clip launching. The pitch and modulation wheels offer you more control over expression.

36 assignable buttons and 12 assignable knobs are included. You can use them to interface with your production software. You also get seamless visual feedback via LED screen. The buttons and knobs illuminate too.

The included software, by the way, is Ableton Live and Xpand!2 by AIR Music Tech, in case you were interested.

And, just in case you plan to use the MIDI controller on other platforms, you’ll be glad to know it’s USB powered, plug and play, and works on Macs and PCs.

As you can tell, this is a highly versatile and configurable MIDI controller.

Some users said this is the best MIDI controller they could find for the price and liked everything about it.

A small minority of users had issues with the keys on the Alesis (either breakage or squeaky), so that might be one thing to look out for, but overall, it seems to have relatively few cons and is worth a look if you’re looking for a controller in this class.

Item weight: 11 lbs.

Package dimensions: 12.4 x 37.6 x 4.5 inches

M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 | Ultra-Portable 32-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 comes with 32 low-profile velocity sensitive mini keys, portable design, four assignable controls (three multi-color LED buttons and one knob) and selectable velocity curves, including one for drum programming.

You also get re-assignable pitch bend and modulation controls, USB powered design, Ignite music creation software and Ableton Live Lite. The Keystation can also work with an iPad, but you will require the iPad Camera Connection Kit MC531ZM/A.

As you can probably guess, this is a great workstation for carting around everywhere you go, if you find you’re constantly out and about and still able to work on your music.

Many buyers loved the portable nature of the keyboard as well as its price point.

Others weren’t crazy about the 32-key design, and while this may work well for jotting down ideas and making music on the go, it isn’t ideally suited to more in-depth composition and music production work. So, please take note.

Item weight: 1.6 lbs.

Package dimensions: 17.5 x 5.5 x 2 inches

Novation Impulse 49 USB MIDI Controller Keyboard

The Novation Impulse 49 comes with ultra-responsive semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, full DAW/plug-in control surface with eight knobs, nine faders and buttons, Automap 4 control software for hands-on control to your DAW and plugins, and multi-function drum pads (for warping arpeggios, rolling beats and launching clips in Ableton Live).

Again, we assume there’s a good chance you’re not going to be using additional software, but just in case, this bundle comes with Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Bass Station synth, XLN Audio Addictive Keys and Loopmasters Sample Pack.

This MIDI controller is available in 25- and 61-key versions as well (at different price points), in case you’re looking for something a little different.

This is another highly versatile MIDI controller, but whether it’s right for you is still going to come down to a matter of preference. Here’s a surface level assessment of its pros and cons:

Pros – users loved the feel of the keys on the Novation as well as the included software bundle. Some even said they thought it was the perfect controller for Logic Pro X.

Cons – some users said the quality of the keyboard and customer support were somewhat questionable. Others said it shouldn’t cost quite as much as it does.

Item weight: 12.46 lbs.

Package dimensions: 28.3 x 6.3 x 15.1 inches

Arturia Keylab 49 Essential Controller Keyboard

The Arturia Keylab 49 Essential controller functions as a universal MIDI controller. It comes with MIDI out, USB, optional DC power, sustain pedal connectivity and MCU/HUI control compatibility.

It features pitch and modulation wheels, intelligent chord functionality, MIDI channel select, backlit performance pads, DAW command center, twin-line LCD screen, knobs and faders and 49 keys.

The Keylab 49 Essential comes bundled with Perfect Analog Lab integration, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand piano model D.

The good – some buyers said this was among one of the best MIDI controllers they could find. They enjoyed both the feel and functionality of this keyboard.

The bad – others didn’t like the software the Arturia controller comes bundled with. Not a big deal if you aren’t planning to use it!

Item weight: 8.38 lbs.

Package dimensions: Unknown

M-Audio Oxygen 49 IV | 49 Key USB/MIDI Keyboard

The M-Audio Oxygen 49 IV comes with 49 full-size, synth action velocity sensitive keys, onboard pitch bend and modulation wheels, eight velocity sensitive trigger pads for beat production and clip launching, eight assignable knobs and nine assignable faders.

You also get dedicated octave up/down buttons, DirectLink for automatically mapping controls to popular DAWs, class compliant plug and play functionality, USB powered design and production software package – Ableton Lite Live, SONiVOX Twist and AIR Music Tech Xpand!2.

Users liked the pads, session control buttons and keys.

Apparently, some weren’t crazy about the build or functionality, and some even said it broke relatively quickly.

Item weight: 6.39 lbs.

Package dimensions: 9.6 x 32 x 3.7 inches

Roland A-49-BK Lightweight 49-Key MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Roland A-49-BK MIDI controller comes with 49 full-size keys with velocity sensitivity, two knobs, two switches and D-Beam controller.

As the name would suggest, the Roland A-49-BK is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport. If you have a mobile setup or plan to be recording on the go, then you might appreciate this aspect of it. Of course, this also means it isn’t quite as feature rich as some alternatives.

The MIDI controller is USB powered and the use of an AC adapter is not required.

The keys on the A-49-BK have a rounded shape for better reaction to your touch and more comfortable glissandi. The mechanical noise is also minimal.

This keyboard works with Macs and PCs, and you can even connect it to your iPad.

Buyers said they liked the feel of this keyboard over some of the cheaper counterparts, as well as its size.

Others said it didn’t measure up to their expectations because they didn’t feel they had complete control over the mod stick or D-Beam.

Item weight: 6 lbs.

Package dimensions: 33 x 3 x 7 inches

Novation Launchkey 49 USB Keyboard Controller For Ableton Live, 49-Note MK2 Version

The Novation Launchkey keyboard controller is marketed as a USB controller for Ableton Live but it works fine for Logic too, and is a decent option at a reasonable price point too.

The MK2 comes with 49 keys, 16 velocity sensitive RGB pads, eight knobs, dedicated navigation and control buttons, sustain pedal 1/4-inch jack, seven-segment three-character LED display, pitch bend and modulation wheels.

This unit is fully USB bus powered and class compliant. It comes with Ableton Live, XLN Audio Addictive Keys and a three-year warranty.

The MK2 is available in 25-key, 49-key, 61-key and 25-key mini configurations, giving you a few options to choose from depending on what you need.

Customers enjoyed all the features included on this MIDI controller as well as its lightweight design.

Others didn’t like the layout and some even said it was overly complicated.

Item weight: 8.16 lbs.

Package dimensions: 30.5 x 3.5 x 10.6 inches

Alesis Q49 49-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Alesis Q49 MIDI controller comes with 49 velocity sensitive keys, pitch and modulation wheels, Octave Up and Down buttons, sustain pedal input, MIDI output and single USB cable design.

The Q49 comes bundled with Ableton Live Lite Alesis Edition.

The good – customers liked the keys as well as the pitch and modulation wheels.

The bad – some said they didn’t like the “cheap” feel of the keyboard.

Item weight: 5 lbs.

Package dimensions: 7 x 32 x 2.2 inches

Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII – 25 Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller

The Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII gives you everything you need in a mobile setup. And, it could be great in a studio setting too.

This mini controller comes with 25 velocity sensitive keys and octave up/down buttons, four-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes.

You also get eight backlit velocity sensitive MPC drum pads with Note Repeat and Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual instruments and DAW controls, as well as eight fully assignable Q Link knobs for mixing, tweaking plugins and more.

This keyboard is plug and play and doesn’t require the installation of drivers. It’s USB powered and ultra-portable.

Buyers said they found the Akai a fun tool to play with and liked that it was budget friendly.

They also pointed out, however, that it can take a while to get used to the workflow. Many didn’t like the included software either, but we assume you’re going to be using it with Logic, so that probably doesn’t matter to you.

Item weight: 1.65 lbs.

Package dimensions: 7.1 x 12.5 x 1.7 inches

Nektar Impact GX61 Controller Keyboard

The Nektar Impact GX61 MIDI controller is a solid, low-cost option for Mac, iOS and PC. Of course, it works with Logic and this fact is stated in the product description.

This controller comes with 61 premium MIDI expressive synth-action keys, onboard pitch bend and modulation wheels, 14 MIDI assignable buttons and Bitwig 8-Track DAW.

Reviewers said this keyboard exceeded expectations, noting its feel, keys and price as its main benefits.

Skilled and experienced keyboardists/pianists weren’t thrilled with the Nektar, but it seems like they were probably expecting more than you can realistically get at this price point.

So, advanced players may want to steer clear, but those looking for a solid entry to intermediate level controller will like this one.

Item weight: 6 lbs.

Package dimensions: 38 x 7.8 x 2.8 inches

IK Multimedia iRig Keys Pro Full-Sized 37-Key MIDI Controller

The IK Multimedia iRig Keys Pro 37-key MIDI controller has been designed with iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac and PC in mind, making it highly compatible across a variety of OS platforms.

This MIDI controller comes with 37 velocity sensitive full-sized keys, modulation and pitch bend wheels, Volume/Data knob, Octave Up/Down and Program Up/Down back-lit soft-touch buttons and optional sustain or expression pedal input.

The iRig Keys Pro also comes bundled with SmapleTank 3 SE and six expansion libraries for Mac and PC.

Buyers liked that the IK Multimedia controller was easy to set up. They also liked the feel of the keyboard and even said it works great with Logix Pro X.

Some didn’t like the keyboard action and others had issues with the USB port.

If you think it might be the right size for you, however, and you’re looking for a portable unit, we think this one is worth a look.

Item weight: 3.51 lbs.

Package dimensions: 23.2 x 7.4 x 2.2 inches

Worlde TUNA MINI 25 Key USB Portable Mini MIDI Keyboard Controller

It’s time to round out this list with a decent budget option, and this one looks a little bit like an Arturia product.

The compact and portable Worlde 25 key MIDI controller comes with 25 mini keys (three velocity sensing settings), octave shifting, eight anti-slip 360 degree rotatable knobs, eight force-sensing drum pads (with eight virtual), eight faders, wood imitation rim, pedal interface, and it works with Mac or PC.

Customers liked how easy the controller was to use. They also appreciated the quality and plug and play design.

Some found the setup process difficult, and others said the table feels flimsy and cheap. Negative reviews are a little all over the map, however, so your opinion on the keyboard may differ.

Additionally, the Worlde is not the most expensive unit available (it’s the most affordable on this list), so you should keep your expectations realistic.

Item weight: 2.7 lbs.

Package dimensions: 11.7 x 9.7 x 1.9 inches

What Should I Look For In A MIDI Controller For Logic X Pro?

At this point in time, there are fewer platform agnostic hardware tools than ever, with most of them featuring a plug and play USB design.

So, choosing a MIDI controller, for the most part, comes down to choosing what you like in a MIDI controller.

Do you prefer having more keys or fewer (if you’re a composer, then you probably prefer more)? Are you a fan of semi-weighted or weighted keys? Do you want velocity sensitive pads? Additional knobs, buttons and faders?

So, as you can see, what’s right for one user might not be right for another.

Still, if you’re still undecided after looking over the above options, here are the main factors to consider when buying a MIDI controller:

The Right Functionality

Does the MIDI controller have the functionality you need?

More isn’t always better, for reasons we’re about to explore, but you should only buy if you know you’re getting exactly what you need for your purposes.

Many of the factors already mentioned are going to be the main contenders here – keys, pads, knobs, faders, pitch and modulation wheels, and so on. How many do you need? How should they be laid out? How should they feel (especially in the case of keys – semi-weighted, weighted, etc.)?

If you don’t need anything fancy, then there’s no need to overthink these factors. But we assume every buyer has a baseline set of requirements when it comes to buying a MIDI controller, so don’t forget to factor these into your buying decision.

Great Workflow

Layout does affect workflow. And, while you can learn to use any MIDI controller with any configuration in time, it’s fair to say some are more intuitive to use than others.

The good news is that, if you don’t mind taking your time, you can scan the pictures of each MIDI controller online to get a better sense of how it’s laid out and how easy/hard it would be to use.

You can also scan the reviews, watch online demos and reviews, and even go to the local music store to rent the controllers you’re interested in to test them out for yourself (always a reliable option).

Workflow is probably on equal footing with functionality, so far as its importance is concerned. So, don’t overlook this factor.

Durable Product

Some products hold up to more abuse than others. If you don’t plan to move your MIDI controller once you’ve got it set up, then there isn’t too much to worry about. But if you need to move it from time to time, and plan to use it all the time, that could be a different matter entirely.

All things being equal, it’s always better to put money into a product that’s going to work and keep working long-term.

MIDI controllers aren’t overly expensive, but some are a little heftier than others in terms of the investment you will make, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.

The Right Size

Size, for better or for worse, is an often-overlooked factor when shopping for a MIDI controller. We suggest factoring this into your buying decision, and here’s why.

You may have limited desk space already or haven’t even thought about where you’re going to be putting your MIDI controller in relation to all your other gear.

So, we’d recommend taking a moment to consider how you plan to get everything set up in your environment before committing to an 88-key MIDI controller, which can take up considerable space.

Bang For Buck

MIDI controllers come at a broad range of prices, even if $100 to $300 is typical.

We like to remind our readers to spend responsibly and not go into debt for gear related purchases.

Use your budget as a measuring stick for how much MIDI controller you can afford, as it makes it easier for you to narrow down your options.

Additionally, you’re much less likely to have any regrets.

Best Midi Controllers For Logic Pro X, Final Thoughts

Just because one person likes certain things about a MIDI controller doesn’t mean that another will agree. In that sense, a MIDI controller is a highly individual purchase decision. Honestly, it’s not that different from buying an instrument.

It depends a lot on how you plan to use the MIDI controller, as some people just use it to sketch out ideas or play simple bass and synth lines, while others use it to compose and arrange for full orchestras.

So, be sure you identify what you need before committing to any one product. Get exactly what you need.

And, as always, happy shopping!