AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys) Under $1,000 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 22 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 10, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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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 22 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
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 61 - AIEP3 BundleM-Audio31Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 21
Intuitive Instruments Exquis Deluxe Dark WoodIntuitive Instruments31Stable$379€339$379€339Check ↗
- 22
M-Audio Keystation 61 MK3-AIEP3 BundleM-Audio27Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
Master Keyboards (up to 61 Keys) by the numbers
Measured across all 31 models we track, not a sample.
Median $256 — half of all master keyboards (up to 61 keys) here cost less.
median of 29 models · 1.71 kg–6.8 kg
most common · 13 models
How to choose the best master keyboards (up to 61 keys)
Key Action
Weighted actions are the gold standard for piano feel, but in this price range, you're more likely to find semi-weighted or synth-action. Synth action is fast and responsive for leads and pads, but lacks the nuanced dynamic control of weighted. Pay attention to key travel - too short and it feels mushy, too long and it's sluggish.
Sound Engine/ROM
Some boards have built-in sounds, others are purely MIDI controllers. If you want sounds, look for something with a decent ROM - listen for the character, the sustain, and how those sounds sit in a mix. Don't expect boutique-level sounds; think solid, usable tones.
Connectivity
USB-MIDI is essential, obviously. Aftertouch is a nice-to-have for expressive playing. MIDI In/Out opens up possibilities for older gear or complex setups. Consider audio outputs - stereo is standard, but a couple of mono outputs can be handy for routing to different amps or effects.
Build Quality/Controls
Plastic is the norm here. Look for a solid feel, stable keys, and knobs/faders that don't feel flimsy. Good tactile feedback on the controls is crucial for tweaking sounds on the fly - especially important when you're gigging in less-than-ideal conditions.
Modulation/Expression
Pitch bend and modulation wheels are standard, but the range and responsiveness can vary. Dedicated assignable knobs or buttons for effects or synth parameters are a huge bonus for creative control and can save you a ton of time in a DAW.
Buying guide
Alright, so you need a decent master keyboard, but you're not looking to drop a grand and a half? Totally get it. A lot of folks think they need 88 keys to be a real player, but for a lot of us - gigging soloists, studio guys, bedroom producers - 61 keys are plenty, especially if you're layering sounds. Let's find you something that'll feel good under your fingers and won't leave you eating ramen for a month.
Realistically, at this price point, you're making compromises. You're unlikely to find a fully weighted action with a mind-blowing sound engine. Focus on finding a balance - a good action is more important than fancy sounds if you're primarily playing piano, and vice-versa if you're into synth leads.
Don't get hung up on the number of knobs - a few well-implemented, assignable controls are better than a dozen cheap, scratchy ones.
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 31 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 semi-weighted and synth-action?
Semi-weighted has some resistance like a real piano, but it's lighter. Synth action is almost like playing a trackball - very fast and responsive, but not much dynamic range. It's a feel thing - try both if you can.
Can I use this with my DAW?
Absolutely. USB-MIDI is standard. You'll need drivers, but they're usually easy to find online. It's just another MIDI controller for your software instruments.
What about aftertouch?
Aftertouch adds expressive nuance - notes swell or change timbre as you hold them down. It's not essential, but it's a cool feature if you're into that kind of thing. Don't pay a premium for it, though.
Is a smaller keyboard (37 keys) a good alternative?
It depends. 37 keys can be tight for chords and basslines. If portability is your main concern, it's an option, but you'll likely feel cramped. 61 keys offers a good balance of portability and playability.
I'm on a super tight budget - what should I skip?
Skip the fancy sounds. Focus on a solid action and good MIDI connectivity. You can always load your own sounds in your DAW - that's where the real magic happens anyway.





