Best Miscellaneous Controllers for Intermediate 2026

If you want a compact way to make beats and play drum parts, this one is worth a look. It has 16 light-up pads that respond to how hard you hit them, plus 16 knobs called encoders for tweaking sounds. It works with Windows 7/8, Mac OS X 10.7 or later, and iPad with an extra kit.

• Weight0.74 kg

The Airturn Quad 500 is a wireless controller with four ATFS-2 pedals on a pedal board. You can use it to turn pages on digital content, run teleprompter apps, or remotely control iOS, Android, Windows PC and Mac devices over Bluetooth 5. Its built-in battery lasts up to 150-200 operating hours per charge, so it suits you if you want hands-free control of your tablet or computer while you play.

• Weight0.6 kg

You get a wireless Bluetooth controller with a trigger pad, made for drummers and percussionists. You can set how sensitive the pad is, then use it to control audio, lights, effects and MIDI commands. It also works as a page turner or slide remote, so it can suit you if you read digital music or give presentations.

The Midimix is a neat little controller – perfect for bedroom producers or anyone just starting out with a DAW. It gives you real fader action, which is a huge upgrade from mouse control, and the Totalsync feature is seriously clever. It's not a replacement for a full-fledged mixer, but it's a fantastic, affordable way to get hands-on with your tracks.

This is a small white USB-MIDI controller with 16 pads that respond to how hard you hit them. It suits you if you want to play beats or sounds from a computer or iPad and like having an X-Y pad and buttons close at hand. Keep in mind it draws power over USB, and iPad use needs an active USB hub and an Apple Camera Connection Kit that is not included.

• Size8"

The ESI Xjam is a surprisingly capable little pad controller, perfect for beatmakers, loopers, and anyone wanting to add some tactile control to their software instruments. Its compact size and programmable features make it great for mobile setups, though the plastic construction is noticeable. It’s a solid value for the price.

The AirTurn BT500S-2 is a surprisingly capable page turner and simple controller for musicians who need hands-free operation. It's a solid choice for DAW users, virtual instrument players, and anyone who wants to streamline their workflow without a ton of extra gear. The build is practical, and the Bluetooth performance is excellent for the price.

If you want to scroll through digital pages hands-free, this footswitch could be a good fit for you. It connects wirelessly over Bluetooth LE to an iPhone, iPad, Mac or Android device, and you can switch between three control modes. It will not work for you if you use a Windows computer.

The AirTurn BT500S-4 is a fantastic tool for performers, composers, and anyone who needs hands-free page turning or MIDI control. Its robust build, reliable Bluetooth, and long battery life make it a solid investment, especially for those using sheet music or controlling virtual instruments during live performance or recording.