As a music teacher, you know the importance of having a quality keyboard in your classroom. But with such a wide range of prices and features, it can take time to know which one is right for you.
In this blog post, I’ll help you uncover some of the best portable piano keyboards and midi controllers to use with your devices (laptops, Chromebooks, and iPads) and teach you to determine which features will be most meaningful for you so that you can purchase the best piano keyboard or midi controller for your teaching situation.
Note: I will not discuss piano lab/keyboard lab setups in this post as those needs will differ.
If you’re in the market for a new portable piano keyboard, midi controllers for notation input, a set of portable keyboards for student learning, or if you’re looking to start teaching notation and composition, this is the perfect place to start!
Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links which will earn me a very small commission (at no extra cost to you!). These are all books that I recommend because they are quality resources and any commissions earned go back into supporting the upkeep of this site.
Consider Your Aim or Purpose
Before we jump in, it’s important to consider your overall aim for your purchase (aka. “Why do you need a keyboard?). It’s exciting to think about how your students will engage with your keyboard(s) now and in the future, but clarity is essential to a meaningful purchase.
Here are some essential questions to think about before buying a new portable piano keyboard or midi controller:
- Do you want to be able to input notes into audio-editing or notation software?
- Do you want to use the keyboard to teach piano skills?
- What will you want to use this keyboard to be used for, not only now but in the future?
- Could your needs change in the next several years?
Portable Piano Keyboards vs. Midi Controllers (Keyboard Controllers)
What are Midi Controllers (Keyboard Controllers)?
Midi Controllers are intended for you to enter notes into notation software (Noteflight, Musescore, Finale, Sibelius etc.) or to use with a digital audio workstation (GarageBand, Bandlab, Soundtrap, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton etc.).
You can also use midi controllers with interactive music websites like Chrome Music Lab’s Songmaker or Blob Opera to control input.
Midi controller keyboards must be plugged into a device AND have the device’s app or software running to hear sound. They do not generally have external speakers.
What are Portable Piano Keyboards?
Portable piano keyboards on the other hand, also referred to as “portable keyboards,” are the best option for learning keyboard skills. Many of them can ALSO be used for midi input as a midi controller keyboard. They usually have in-built speakers and can be played standalone or plugged into a device.
Because they are dual-purpose, they tend to be more expensive.
Comparing Midi Controllers vs. Portable Piano Keyboards
Speakers
- Portable keyboards generally have speakers
- Midi controllers do not have speakers – a device or app is required.
Sounds
- Portable keyboards usually contain an in-built sound library (with drum sounds, synthesizers, and backing sounds).
- Midi controllers do not contain any in-built sounds (all sounds are contained in the app or program the controller is plugged into).
Size/Length
- Portable keyboards come in various lengths, with mostly full-sized keys.
- Midi controllers come in various lengths and many sizes of keys, from mini to full-sized.
USB Connectivity
- Portable keyboards usually have USB connectivity (verify before purchasing if needed)
- Midi controllers always have USB connectivity
Power
- Portable keyboards will usually require a power outlet or wall plug. This is a consideration if your classroom doesn’t have many wall outlets or power points.
- You may want to consider an option with a battery if needed (though I don’t recommend this because of the sheer cost and short lifespan of most batteries).
- Midi controllers are powered via your device or computer and do not require their own power source.
Price
- Portable keyboards are generally more expensive. Expect to pay at least $200 (and often more).
- Midi controllers can be expensive, but decent ones can also be purchased at less-expensive prices if needed.
Portable Piano Keyboard and Midi Controller Lengths & Key Sizes
- Small/Compact: 25 or 32 Keys
- Mid-sized #1: 49 Keys
- Mid-sized #2: 61 Keys (suggested minimum length for keyboard lesson use)
- Large: 76 Keys
- Full-Sized: 88 Keys
Split-Keyboards
Some portable keyboards can split the keyboard in half so two students can play together on the same piano in the same octave on both sides. This is a good feature to look for if you’re low on space.
Keyboard and Midi Controller Key Sizes/Action
- Smaller or more compact keyboards/controllers often have more narrow or shorter length keys, which are harder to play accurately (especially for older students with larger hands).
- Look for weighted keys if you want your students to have a close representation or feel of a real piano keyboard – especially if you are looking for piano lesson purposes.
Space Requirements
When purchasing devices for your classroom, you’ll need to consider your space. Do you have spaces to put keyboards away in cupboards, shelves, or out of the way if needed? If not, consider how much usable space you’ll have if keyboards or controllers are left out in your room (and how you can keep them safe if students move around them).
Purchasing Your Portable Keyboard or Midi Controller
Before purchasing your keyboard or midi controller, it’s important to research respected brands and compare features.
Look for a licensed distributor in your area to get the best pricing, and be sure to ask about any specials or package deals that might be available to educators or bulk discounts. This is also a great time to talk with other music educators in your district who may also be looking to purchase keyboards or controllers to save money in bulk.
You’ll want to consider if your budget allows for warranty coverage. This is a great way to help protect your investment, especially in schools where many students will encounter your devices and unfortunate accidents can occasionally happen.
Popular Midi Controllers
I went through and did a bit of research in several large music teacher groups online and found some of the more popular midi controllers teachers use in their classrooms. Here are a few that were referenced and recommended many times by music teachers (note that prices may vary):
Akai MPK Mini (≈ $119 USD)
Alesis V25 (≈ $109 USD)
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 (≈ $59 USD): this is one of my personal favorites. I’ve had the original model for years and still really love it!
M-Audio Oxygen 25 MKV (≈ $129 USD)
M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 (≈ $59 USD)
Novation Launchkey Range: come in a variety of lengths and sizes (≈ $109+ USD)
Popular Portable Keyboards
I found many popular portable keyboards in use at many different schools that are also recommended by music teachers. This is by no means an exhaustive list. There are SO many great options that I didn’t have space for, but here are just a few of the tops ones:
Casio CT-X700 (≈ $199 USD)
Casio CT-X5000 (≈ $499 USD)
Yamaha MX61 (≈ $799 USD)
Korg Kross 2 (≈ $829 USD)
Final Thoughts
I hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of some of the best portable piano keyboards and midi controllers for music classrooms. No matter your budget, great options are available to you and your students.
Do you have a favorite keyboard or controller that you use in your classroom? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
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Looking for More Resources for Music Teachers?
Hello! I’m Katie Argyle – an Australian music technology trainer and consultant with a passion for helping music teachers through my businessMidnight Music.
I’m a qualified teacher but no, I don’t currently teach in a school. I help teachers through my online professional development space – theMidnight Music Community– where there are tutorial videos, courses, links and downloadable resources.
I like to focus oneasyways to incorporate technology intowhat you are already doing in your music curriculumthrough a range of creative projects. I also run live workshops and have presented at countless conferences and other music education events.
If you want simple, effective ideas for using technology in music education, I would LOVE to help you inside theMidnight Music Community.
