AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys) 2026
The top pick is Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3 ($961). M-Audio Oxygen 61 MK5 gives you the most for the money at $151. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 23 models across 12 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 10, 2026
Narrow the chart
All Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys)Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S61 MK3
Kontrol S61 MK3 Komplete 26 · Native Instruments
8 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
- Weight6 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
The S61 MK3 is a serious contender for anyone building a Komplete-centric studio. The keybed is a standout, and the screen is a massive upgrade for navigating those huge sound libraries. It's perfect for producers and keyboardists wanting deep integration and a tactile workflow, even if it's a bit of a commitment in terms of space and complexity.
Pros
- Excellent Fatar keybed with polyphonic aftertouch feels responsive and expressive.
- High-resolution color screen significantly improves workflow and visual feedback.
- Seamless integration with Komplete instruments simplifies sound design and recall.
Cons
- Semi-weighted action isn't ideal for pianists seeking true grand piano feel.
- The Komplete 15 bundle, while extensive, can be overwhelming for beginners.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$961 now$961€859 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Novation FLkey 2 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller
FLkey 2 61 · Novation
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight4.78 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
If you make beats or music in FL Studio, you will find this keyboard set up to work with it. It has 61 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads with polyphonic aftertouch, and plenty of faders and knobs to shape your sound. It suits producers and players who want hands-on control and a big bundle of included software.
Pros
- Built to control FL Studio, with a six-month trial of FL Studio Producer Edition included
- Has 16 pads with polyphonic aftertouch for expressive finger control
- Includes integrated scale and chord modes plus an arpeggiator
Cons
- Weighs 4.78 kg and measures 895 x 93 x 263.5 mm, so it needs a fair amount of desk space
73AudioFu
Index↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$357 · Aug 17$351 now$351€314 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller
Oxygen Pro 61 · M-Audio
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight4.8 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
If you want one controller to play keys, trigger pads and run your music software, this one covers a lot. The 61 keys respond to how hard you press and can send aftertouch, and the pads, faders and buttons can be set to what you need. It suits anyone who works with a computer and wants hands-on control, though its size and weight mean it works best on a permanent desk setup.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive, semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and assignable zones
- 16 backlit, assignable, velocity-sensitive RGB pads for triggering and beats
- 9 assignable faders and 8 assignable controls and buttons for hands-on mapping
Cons
- Weighs 4.8 kg and measures 965.2 x 264.2 x 83.8 mm, so it needs a dedicated spot on your desk
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$248 now$248€222 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Novation FLkey 61 MIDI Keyboard Controller
FLkey 61 · Novation
19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3.4 kg
You get 61 keys that respond to how hard you play, so harder presses give louder notes. It is optimised for FL Studio, and its 16 lit pads let you tap out drums or control the channel rack. If you make beats or songs in FL Studio, this one is a good fit for you.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys respond to how hard you play
- 16 RGB-illuminated velocity-sensitive pads for drums and control
- Optimised for controlling FL Studio, with mixer and channel rack control
Cons
- At 952 x 77 x 258 mm and 3.4 kg, it is a large, heavy board for small desks
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$256 now$256€229 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight1.71 kg
You get a 61-key keyboard that connects to your iPad, iPhone, Mac or PC over Bluetooth, or plugs in with USB. It runs on 2x AA batteries too, so you can play without a cable. It suits you if you want a compact keyboard for making music on a computer or tablet, and you have room for it at your desk.
Pros
- Bluetooth wireless operation works with iPad, iPhone, Mac or PC
- Runs on 2x AA batteries or USB power, so you can play untethered
- Includes a KORG software bundle code and a USB cable
Cons
- Wireless use needs Bluetooth 4.0 or higher on your computer or device
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4.78 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
If you want one controller for keys, drums and software, this one is worth a look. It has 61 semi-weighted keys, 16 pads that respond to how hard you hit them, and plenty of knobs and faders to control your music software. It suits you if you make beats or play keys at home and want to start right away with the included software.
Pros
- 61 semi-weighted keys give you a playable feel for keyboard work
- 16 FSR drum pads with polyphonic aftertouch respond to how hard and how long you press
- Nine faders, eight rotary controls and scale and chord modes give you hands-on control
Cons
- Weighs 4.78 kg and measures 895 mm wide, so it takes up real space on a stand or desk
58AudioFu
Index↓ 4.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$323 · Aug 17$309 now$309€276 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3.4 kg
The Oxygen 61 MK5 is a solid entry-level MIDI keyboard – a great starting point for bedroom producers, songwriters, or anyone just dipping their toes into music creation. The included software makes it immediately useful, and the assignable controls offer some room for customization, even if the build quality reflects its budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer expressive playing feel.
- Smart Chord/Scale modes simplify music creation for beginners.
- Comprehensive software bundle provides immediate creative potential.
Cons
- Plastic build feels budget-oriented; lacks premium feel.
- Limited key travel impacts nuanced piano playing.
57AudioFu
Index↓ 20.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$189 · Aug 17$151 now$151€135 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Nektar Impact LX61 Mk3 MIDI Keyboard Controller
Impact LX61 mk3 · Nektar
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight3.7 kg
- Keys61 keys
You get a 61-key keyboard with a synthesizer-style feel, plus pads, faders, and encoders to control your software. It comes with Bitwig Studio 8-Track and a free Native Instruments Komplete 15 Select bundle for a genre you pick, so you can start making music fast. It suits you if you want a keyboard controller that works directly with NKS-compatible instruments and effects.
Pros
- Synthesizer-style clean action keyboard with 61 keys for playing
- 8 velocity-sensitive LED-illuminated pads for triggering sounds and beats
- Includes Bitwig Studio 8-Track and MOK Miniraze to start making music right away
Cons
- Power comes from USB, so it needs a USB connection to run
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$223 now$223€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
You get 61 keys that respond to how hard you press, plus knobs and buttons you can assign to your own software. It also has a Smart Scale mode with 16 scales, which helps if you want to stay in key while you experiment. It suits someone who wants a full-size keyboard for making music on a computer or in a home studio.
Pros
- 61 semi-weighted keys that are velocity-sensitive, so playing softer or harder changes the output
- 4 assignable knobs and 6 assignable buttons for transport functions or MIDI CC messages
- Built-in Smart Scale mode with 16 scales to help keep notes in key
Cons
- Only one MIDI output on a 5-pin DIN connector, with no other MIDI connections listed
- At 4 kg and 947 mm wide, it is heavier and bulkier to carry than lighter controllers
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$212 now$212€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Nektar Impact GXP61 USB MIDI Keyboard Controller
Impact GXP61 · Nektar
2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight5 kg
- Key actionSemi-weighted keys
If you want a keyboard to run your software and make MIDI music, you should look at this one. It has 61 full size keys that respond to how hard you press, plus aftertouch, and it connects to your computer with just a USB cable. It suits people who make beats, write songs or play virtual instruments at home more than people who need something light to carry around.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted full size keys with aftertouch
- 14 RGB LED buttons for MIDI, Key Repeat and Nectarine features
- Dedicated transport buttons for Loop, Click, Go To Locator and Undo
Cons
- Needs a separate 9V power supply for external power, which is not included
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$231 now$231€206 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 23 master keyboards (up to 61 keys)
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Arturia KeyLab 61 mk3 BlackArturia · 3 finishes52Stable$525€469$525€469Check ↗
- 12
Arturia KeyLab Essential 61 Mk3 BlackArturia · 2 finishes49↓ 1.4%$231€206$231€206Check ↗
- 13
Nux NTK-61Nux46Stable$282€252$282€252Check ↗
- 14
M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3M-Audio45Stable$143€128$143€128Check ↗
- 15
Novation 61SL MKIIINovation44↑ 17.1%$782€699$782€699Check ↗
- 16
Nektar SE61Nektar42Stable$92€82$92€82Check ↗
- 17
Korg microKEY 61 MkIIKorg40Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 18
Miditech i2-61 Black EditionMiditech38Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 19
Crumar DK61Crumar38Stable$636€568$636€568Check ↗
- 20
Expressive E Osmose 61 CEExpressive E38Stable$1,241€1,109$1,241€1,109Check ↗
- 21
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 - AIEP3 BundleM-Audio31Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 22
Intuitive Instruments Exquis Deluxe Dark WoodIntuitive Instruments31Stable$379€339$379€339Check ↗
- 23
M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3-AIEP3 BundleM-Audio27Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys) by the numbers
Measured across all 33 models we track, not a sample.
Median $282 — half of all master keyboards (up to 61 keys) here cost less.
median of 31 models · 1.71 kg–6.8 kg
most common · 14 models
How to choose the best master keyboards (up to 61 keys)
Keybed Action
This is HUGE. Weighted, semi-weighted, synth-action...they all feel and play differently. A proper weighted action mimics an acoustic piano, offering nuanced dynamics, while synth action is quicker and lighter. Consider your playing style and the music you make - a piano player will hate a flimsy synth action, and a synth player might find a weighted action sluggish.
Aftertouch & Modulation
Aftertouch (the pressure you apply after hitting a key) adds a ton of expression, especially for pads, strings, and evolving sounds. Modulation wheels and strips give you real-time control over effects and synth parameters - crucial for live performance and adding movement to your tracks. Don't underestimate these!
Connectivity & MIDI
Beyond USB, look for MIDI In/Out ports. These let you integrate the keyboard into more complex setups with external gear, like vintage synths or drum machines. Latency is key - a sluggish MIDI response kills the feel.
Knobs, Faders & Transport Controls
These aren't just for show. Dedicated knobs for tweaking sounds in real-time, faders for volume control, and transport buttons to control your DAW streamline your workflow and keep you in the pocket. This is especially important when you're trying to balance levels on the fly during a gig.
Build Quality & Portability
Let's be real - gear gets abused. A flimsy plastic build won't survive a tour. Consider the weight and size too, especially if you're hauling it around regularly. Solid construction also tends to translate to a more stable and responsive keybed.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a master keyboard - smart move. Having a solid controller with good action and enough keys to actually play something interesting is a game-changer, whether you're tracking at home, gigging with a band, or just sketching out ideas. We're focusing on the 61-key range here; it's a sweet spot for portability and functionality, but finding the right one can be tricky.
A 61-key master keyboard is a significant investment, so don't cheap out too much. The biggest compromises usually come in the keybed action - really feel it out before you buy. If you're primarily using software instruments, a semi-weighted action might be acceptable, but if you're serious about piano sounds, the extra for a good weighted keybed is worth it.
Also, check the DAW integration - some keyboards offer deeper control than others.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 33 master keyboards (up to 61 keys) from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between 'weighted' and 'synth-action' keybeds?
Weighted actions try to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano - heavier, with more resistance. Synth action is lighter and faster, good for synths and quick playing, but lacks the dynamic range of a weighted action.
Do I need aftertouch?
No, but it adds a lot of expressive possibilities, especially for pads and evolving sounds. It's a nice-to-have that can elevate your playing.
What's the deal with velocity sensitivity?
Velocity sensitivity determines how loud a note plays based on how hard you hit it. A good keyboard responds accurately and consistently, allowing for dynamic performances.
Can I use a 61-key keyboard as a MIDI controller with my laptop?
Absolutely. Most modern DAWs support MIDI controllers, and a USB connection is all you need. Just make sure your drivers are up-to-date.
Is a smaller keyboard better for portability?
Generally, yes, but a lighter build is just as important. A heavy 49-key board isn't as portable as a lighter 61-key one. Consider the overall weight and how you'll be transporting it.
