AKAI Professional MPK mini Plus vs Arturia Keystep 37
Detailed comparison to help you choose the right Master Keyboards (up to 49 Keys) for your music.
Last updated: May 13, 2026 • Next update: May 20, 2026
AKAI Professional MPK mini Plus
The MPK mini Plus is a seriously handy little controller. It’s perfect for producers, beatmakers, and anyone needing a compact, portable solution for triggering sounds and sequencing. The integrated arpeggiator and step sequencer add a lot of creative potential for on-the-go music creation.
$160
Arturia Keystep 37
The Keystep 37 is a brilliant little productivity powerhouse. It’s perfect for electronic musicians, songwriters, and anyone needing a compact MIDI controller with a robust sequencer and solid integration options. While the mini keys take some getting used to, the aftertouch adds a lot of expressive potential.
$186
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | AKAI Professional MPK mini Plus | Arturia Keystep 37 |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | AKAI Professional | Arturia |
| Model | MPK mini Plus | Keystep 37 |
| Price | $159 | $185 |
| Expert Rating | ⭐ 4.9/5 | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
| Keys | 37 | 37 |
| Key Type | Velocity-Sensitive Mini Keys | Velocity-sensitive Slimkey with aftertouch |
| Pads | 8 Velocity-Sensitive MPC Pads | None |
| Knobs/Faders | 8 Assignable Rotary Controls | 4 freely assignable |
| Connections | USB-B, Pitch CV, Modulation CV, Gate | 3.5mm CV outs, Clock sync, USB, MIDI I/O, Sustain pedal input, Power pack input |
| Weight | 2.7 lbs | 1.6 kg |
| Pros | + Excellent MPC pad feel, responsive and satisfying to trigger. | + Excellent sequencer for quick melodic ideas and loops |
| Pros | + The OLED display is a huge upgrade for visual feedback. | + Slimkey action surprisingly playable, especially with aftertouch |
| Pros | + Assignable joystick provides nuanced control over modulation and pitch. | + Compact size makes it ideal for travel and smaller setups |
| Pros | + Chords and Scales mode simplifies composition for beginners. | + Comprehensive connectivity for integration with modular and DAWs |
| Cons | - Mini keys can be cramped for players with larger hands. | - Slimkeys won't satisfy players accustomed to full-size keys |
| Cons | - Plastic build feels somewhat less robust than higher-end controllers. | - Limited knob/fader count restricts deep parameter control |
| Cons | - CV/Gate outputs lack dedicated power, requiring external solutions. | - Plastic build feels a little less premium than Arturia’s higher-end offerings |
| Category | Master Keyboards (up to 49 Keys) | Master Keyboards (up to 49 Keys) |
| Article Number | 552530 | 502689 |
| Check Price | Check Price |
