If you are looking for the most powerful and popular DAWs on the market today, Logic Pro X is arguably one of them available. Many professional producers, musicians and composers from all over the world use Apple’s Logic Pro X, a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), which offers a vast range of features like writing, recording, editing, mixing and mastering audio.
You’ll need the best MIDI controller to make the most of Logic Pro X, even though you’ll notice that most professional producers and artists use MIDI keyboards for playing software instruments and live samples.
Whatever you require – a full-size keyboard, a portable board, a keyboard with weighted keys or just a basic set of faders – don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the best MIDI controllers for Logic Pro X.
8 Best MIDI Controller for Logic Pro in 2024 – Top Rated Logic Pro MIDI Controller
The below-mentioned MIDI Controllers are compatible with Logic Pro and let you control all the plugins, parameters and dynamics of Logic Pro.
1. Arturia KeyLab 61 MK2 – Editor’s Choice
- 61 Full Size Velocity Sensitive Keys with Aftertouch
- 16 Customisable RGB Backlit Pads
- 9 Faders and 9 Rotary Knobs
- Pitch Bend & Modulation Wheel
- Analog Lab Mode, DAW Mode & User Mode with Display
- CV Output, 5 Pin MIDI In/Out, Pedal In/Out, USB
Arturia offers incredible integration with its top-notch collection of software instruments and Arturia KeyLab 61 MK2 is no exception. KeyLab 61 MK2 is built of supreme quality and expressive velocity-sensitive keys with Aftertouch. It is among the most flexible, creative and expressive MIDI keyboards available. This MIDI controller comes with a few high-end vintage synth emulations, even though Logic Pro X has plenty of terrific synths and VSTs.
Arturia KeyLab 61 MK2 has a velocity-sensitive Keybed that comes with an aftertouch to give you the maximum expression. Modulation and pitch bend wheels are also added to offer more control over live playing. KeyLab 61 MK2 includes Analog Lab V, which is a collection of more than 8,000 sounds from vintage keyboards, synths, pianos, gargantuan organs and digital music makers. It integrates fantastically with any third-party software.
The 16 RGB Backlit Pads are customizable and you can even store chords within each pad so that you can trigger the chords just by pressing the pad and using the hand to control other parameters or add effects to your music.
Arturia KeyLab 61 MK2 uses HUI (Human User-Interface Protocol) to interact with this MIDI controller and let you access the 10 most popular DAWs including Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Ableton LIVE, FL Studio, BitWig, Cubase, StudioOne etc. using DAW Command. The built-in display shows all the DAW controls on the screen and makes things easier without looking at the computer screen.
With Arturia KeyLab 61 MK2, you get multiple features like intuitive labels, smart-mapping controls and magnetic strips that are exclusive to each DAW. Every fader, rotatory knob and button is automatically assigned to relevant parameters within Logic Pro X. These features are more than enough to impress any aspiring or professional producer.
Arturia KeyLab 61 MK2 is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for the best MIDI Controller for Logic Pro X in 2024. It is an advanced, hi-tech MIDI controller that allows you to create/play music the way you want. If you want more keys for playing piano riffs, do check out best 88 Key MIDI Controller that also comes with hammer action weighted keys.
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2. M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 – Best Overall
- 49 Semi Weighted, Velocity-Sensitive keys with Aftertouch & Assignable Zones
- 16 RGB MIDI assignable Velocity Sensitive Pads with Note Repeat
- Arpeggiator with Type, Octave, Gate and Swing controls
- 8 Assignable Knobs, 9 Faders & OLED Screen
- Preset & DAW Buttons for Auto-Mapping
- Sustain Pedal In, USB, 5-Pin MIDI
M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 is the best choice for producers who work in studios or on the go and want complete control over every aspect of their music production in Logic Pro X. The MIDI keyboard comes with 49 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys with Aftertouch and Assignable zones which are full-sized and feel joyous when played. Especially with synths included with Logic Pro, the keyboard can create a new range of expressions, thanks to PrecisionTouch Keybed.
When it comes to live performances, M-Audio Oxygen Pro 49 is the best option since it strikes a compromise between increased portability and advanced voicing capabilities. Oxygen Pro 49 offers seamless integration for the majority of digital audio workstation software and performance mapping. The MIDI controller instantly maps controls, including faders, transport controls, pan controls and channel controllers and many more, as soon as you plug it into Logic Pro X. All you need to do is choose the appropriate setting in your DAW and you’ll be set to go.
The 16 RGB MIDI assignable velocity-sensitive drum pads also come with Note Repeat which makes things easier while recording drum loops. It also got the 8 Assignable Knobs and 9 faders to get full control of different sound plugins, effects and other sound parameters. The OLED screen provides visual feedback, so you can change the effects and modes without looking at the computer screen. As soon as you trigger any smart control or any effect, it will be visible on this OLED screen.
Oxygen Pro 49 also comprises Smart Scale and Smart Chord modes. It also includes a range of professional production features like Arpeggiator features and note repeat which is best for studio productions and live performances. For connectivity, it offers 5 Pin MIDI out, USB Type-B & Sustain port. Here is more about MIDI Cables.
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3. Novation Launchkey 49 MK3
- 49 Velocity Sensitive, Synth Action Keys
- Chord Mode, Scale Mode, Strum Mode, Arpeggiator
- 16 RGB backlit Velocity Sensitive Pads
- Capture MIDI, Quantise, Click, Undo, Navigation, Stop, Solo, Mute Buttons
- 16×2 char screen
- 8 Knobs, 9 45mm Faders, Pitch & Modulation Wheels
- 5 PIN MIDI Out, USB Type-B, Sustain Pedal
If you want a MIDI keyboard for live performances, Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is an excellent option for you. It excels by combining live manipulation with a keyboard and includes everything you need to produce music in Logic Pro X. It is a compact and portable keyboard, and easily sends MIDI data to your USB ports which makes it the perfect choice for creatives who are constantly on the road.
Launchkey 49 MK3 comes with 16 backlit ultra-sensitive pads for launching clips and laying down beats, and 8 knobs which offer you greater tactile control over Logic Pro parameters than ever before. This MIDI controller includes smart controls and it instantly maps to Logic Pro, and its capabilities are tailored for live sound shaping. It also includes Scale Mode and its various chord alternatives encourage melodic creativity.
The inbuilt Char Screen comes in handy when you are exploring different sounds/samples/loops or while activating any mode on the controller. It displays all the activated effects, and modes and keeps the flow of music production seamless. You can even use Novation Launckey MK3 as a standalone controller without a computer or laptop connected to it.
Besides other features, Launchkey 49 MK3 includes transport controls which also support live music production. Launchkey 49 MK3 comes with everything you need to start creating music in the box, it includes a wide range of instruments, sounds, and effects from Spitfire Audio, Klevgrand XLN Audio as well as Ableton Live Lite. Although Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is a popular MIDI controller for Ableton LIVE but not get confused with it as Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is also fully compatible with Logic Pro as well.
If you are looking for the best MIDI Controller for Logic Pro with synth-action keys, a char screen, brilliantly designed keyboard at competitive pricing, Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is something you should be considering.
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4. M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 – Best For Beginners
- 49 Full-Size Velocity-Sensitive Synth-Action Keys
- Transport and Directional Buttons
- Pitch and Modulation Wheels
- USB Type-B, Sustain Pedal Port
If you are someone who is looking for the best MIDI Controller for Logic Pro for Beginners that too in an affordable price range, M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is the way to go. It is a powerful MIDI keyboard, with limited buttons and is especially designed for playing virtual instruments and sequencing music on a Mac or PC. The MIDI controller provides all the essentials for making music which makes use of Logic Pro X easier.
Keystation 49 MK3 includes 49 full-sized velocity-sensitive synth-action keys to give you excellent performance. All the essential basic controls like ergonomically-designed pitch, modulation wheels, transport & directional buttons and many more are included to give you the most immersive and expressive experience.
Keystation 49 MK3 is the most compact and durable keyboard with core controller functionality which gives you the access to compose music and perform in whatever way you like while on the road. Transport controls are also provided within the Keystation.
You will never miss an idea with the Record button that instantly triggers the record on DAW. You also get the pause and stop buttons along with a volume fader and directional arrows. Similar to the four arrows on your computer keyboard, the directional arrows let you navigate up, down, left and right through your tracks, sounds, loops, samples and other settings, and parameters of Logic Pro.
Keystation 49 MK3 is not much of a fancy controller, it is a simple, easy-to-use MIDI controller as compared to other options available in the market. The Keystation also includes two industry platforms to enhance your creativity like Ableton Lite and Pro Tools First M-Audio Edition which is used by many artists, musicians and music producers. Keystation 49 MK3 is also a suitable option for beginners who have just started and want to take things forward with basics only.
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5. AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 – Best Portable MIDI for Logic
- 25 Velocity Sensitive Keys
- 4-Way Thumbstick for Pitch & Modulation
- 8 Backlit Velocity-Sensitive Drum Pads with Note Repeat
- 8 Endless Knobs
- Built-in OLED Display
- Supports USB Type-B & Sustain
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MK3 is a compact but fully loaded MIDI keyboard with 25 velocity-sensitive keys that is specially designed for beginners. MPK Mini MK3 is a great option if you have just started your music production journey and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on fancy equipment. Due to its compact and lightweight design, you can easily take it anywhere you go and make some music.
The keys of MPK Mini MK3 are small and it may feel a little challenging to operate for some experienced musicians especially if someone is using full-size weighted keys. Additionally, within Logic Pro X there are eight velocity-sensitive rubber drum pads with two banks of eight assignable control knobs. The octave up and down buttons are given to make it simple to switch up to 10 octaves when you perform.
The endless rotatory knobs are also provided to MIDI parameters for editing but the simplest and quickest way to start experimenting right away is to utilize Logic Pro’s MIDI Learn feature. This involves choosing a parameter, pressing command-L and then turning the corresponding knob on the MPK. MPK Mini MK3 also comes with a built-in Arpeggiator for playing arpeggios. The OLED screen is also there on MPK Mini MK3 that displays all the DAW information and activated effects to make things easy to understand & manage.
Especially for Mac users, AKAI Professional has included a production software package with AKAI Pro MPC Essentials with virtual instruments like the Hybrid 3 by Air Music tech and the SoniVox Wobble which includes more than 1500 sounds.
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6. Arturia MiniLab 3 Mini Hybrid – Best Value for Money Mini MIDI Keyboard
- 25 Pressure & Velocity Sensitive Keys
- 8 Multi-Function Knobs & 4 Faders
- Pitch Bend & Modulation Touch Strips
- In-built Display with Clickable Knob
- Octave, Chord, Shift Buttons
- Built-in Arpeggiator
- USB Type-C Class Compliant, 5-Pin MIDI Out, Control Port
Arturia MiniLab 3 Mini Hybrid is perfectly suitable for beginners and seasoned players as well. MiniLab 3 Mini Hybrid is a compact MIDI keyboard controller with 25 pressure & velocity-sensitive Keybed.
The keyboard is included with Analog Labs which includes more than 500 sound presets of 28 different instruments. The integration of Analog Labs and Logic Pro is super easy and it works flawlessly. You can tweak and listen to the sounds of hundreds of vintage instruments like Sequential Prophets, Buchla Synths, and Hammond organs with Analog Labs.
Making music with MiniLab 3 is so easy because it comes with many built-in features like Chord mode, and DAW mapping presets which can be customized according to needs. Due to its compact and portable design, MiniLab 3 can be easily transported anywhere you like. You can even carry it in your backpack. Instead of wheels for Pitch Bend and Modulation, there are touch strips that feel even better while using them.
To give you everything in one place, Arturia MiniLab 3 Mini Hybrid also got an inbuilt display with a clickable knob for browsing sounds and controlling the parameters of Logic Pro. The 8 Multifunction Knobs and 4 faders let you play with different sounds and tune them in your own style.
Instead of USB Type-B, Arutria MiniLab 3 Mini Hybrid boasts a USB Type-C port with a control port and a 5-Pin MIDI port. Overall, the Arutria MiniLab 3 Mini Hybrid is a pretty solid MIDI controller for its price. If you are looking for the best affordable MIDI controller for Logic Pro, this is a viable recommendation to go with.
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7. AKAI Professional MPD218 – Best Drum Pad MIDI Controller for Logic
- 48 Thick Velocity Sensitive Expandable Pads via 3 Banks
- 18 360-Degree Assignable Potentiometers via 3 Banks
- Note Repeat & Full Level Control
- MPC Beats Software Included
- USB Connectivity
AKAI Professional MPD218 is a pad controller and with AKAI MPD218, you get 16 velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads that have inspired the beatmakers over many decades. The MIDI controller is a combination control surface and pad that lets you set up your music production studio anywhere you like and inspires you to produce music.
The 16 pads are thick and they provide super-sensitive control over the beat-making procedures. You can create amazing urban beats with the classic note-repeat and full-level functions and three banks provide you with 48 pads of control. There is a dedicated Pad Bank button using which you can turn these 16 Pads into 48 Pads for triggering drums, samples, sound effects, loops and whatnot.
The 6 rotatory knobs are provided on the left side of the MIDI controller. The given three banks can be assigned to take control of up to 18 MIDI parameters like pan, filter cutoff, volume and effect settings. Along with Logic Pro, MPD218 is also compatible with Ableton LIVE, which is included in the package. Using a USB Type-B port, you can easily plug and play this to your laptop/computer. You can even connect it to an iPhone or iPad to make music on the go.
Additionally, Ableton LIVE Lite and AKAI Software Preset Editor are also included. You may customize all the knobs and pads in the AKAI Software Preset Editor to fit your workflow and store them in any of the 16 presets.
If you are a beginner and looking for the Best drum pad MIDI controller for Logic Pro, this is something you can consider. It works brilliantly for triggering loops, sounds, and samples, is fully compatible with all the popular DAWs and is highly portable as well.
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8. Alesis V49 MK2
- 49 Full-Size Velocity Sensitive, Synth Action Keys
- 8 Velocity Sensitive Backlit Pads With Note Repeat
- 4 MIDI-Assignable Knobs
- Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels
- Arpeggiator with 6 Modes
- USB Type-B, 6.35mm Sustain Pedal
Alesis V49 MK2 is a USB-powered, versatile, 49-key MIDI keyboard controller for Logic Pro which comes with everything you need to start making music on Logic Pro right away. The MIDI controller is equipped with many features like 49 Full-size synth-action keys and eight velocity-sensitive pads which enable you to take your ideas from conception to completion. The Octave and Transpose buttons are provided to give you the full piano range.
If you want to make unique melodies, an arpeggiator with 6 modes is also added. Due to Alesis V49 MK2’s lightweight and compact design, it is convenient to use and take anywhere you desire. All the buttons are assigned to MIDI parameters and you can easily map them to keyboard shortcuts by using the Logic Pro X’s learn function and it allows you to perform editing or any other functions with just a touch of a button.
The pitch bend and modulation wheels are also there to give that extra expression to the sound. For beat-making or to trigger the samples, we have 8 Velocity-sensitive Backlit pads with Note Repeat. With note repeat, playing hi-hats and adding snares effects gets that nice touch which however is not possible with hands alone.
For connectivity, it uses a USB Type-B port which is super easy to connect and set up. You can even use the Alesis V49 MK2 to iPhone or iPad using a Type-A to Lightning adapter (not included in the package). The Sustain Pedal Input port is also there, just in case if you want to connect a sustain pedal.
If you are looking for the best 49 Keys MIDI controller for Logic Pro with Drum pads, Arp, and Note Repeat, Alesis V49 MK2 is a brilliant MIDI controller to go with. However, if you want a more affordable MIDI controller for Logic Pro and don’t need drum pads, M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is another good option for you. If you need more controls than keys, Novation Launchkey 37 is something you can consider, slightly expensive but offers better value for money.
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Things to Consider Before Buying a MIDI Controller
If you are new to MIDI Controllers and don’t have any idea about MIDI Controllers and which one to pick, here is a basic buying guide you can follow to get the best MIDI Controller for you.
1. Number of Keys
Most MIDI controller keyboards come with 25, 49, 61 or 88 keys, but you can also find some configurations with 32, 37, 73 or 76 keys. 25 keys are suitable for one-handed synth basses or leads, whereas 49 keys are good options for two-handed play, while 61 to 88 keys are suitable for excellent piano arrangements. But most importantly before buying any keyboard, you need to decide whether you like playing with one hand or with two hands and how much space you have in your music production studio.
If your whole purpose is to create beats, loops, samples, and record drum sessions for your next EDM track, a small 25-key MIDI keyboard is good to go but if you want to play/record chords, or melodies where you need more than 1 octave at the same time, go for 49 keys or bigger MIDI controller. Here is break down of the number of keys with respect to Octaves:
- 25-Keys (2 octaves)
- 37-Keys (3 octaves)
- 49-Keys (4 octaves)
- 61-Keys (5 octaves)
- 88-Keys (7 octaves)
2. Types of Keys
The most important feature to look into in a MIDI controller is action and there are various sorts of actions to take into account, such as:
- Synth-action keys – the keys are unweighted and the keyboards have a feel akin to electric organs with their lightweight, rapidly playable spring-loaded teas.
- Semi-weighted action keys – this action style is quite similar to weighted action with a springier release and less key resistance.
- Weighted action keys – most of the weighted action keyboards come with 88 keys which gives the feel of a traditional acoustic piano.
3. Key Size
Most of the large MIDI controllers come with full-sized keys that are designed to resemble an acoustic piano, which is desired by most pianists. But for music producers who want more portable MIDI controllers, there are some options with small keys that are also available. Most 25, and 32-key MIDI controllers come with mini keys while 49, 61 and 88 keys MIDI controllers offer full-size keys. Full-Size keys feel good and most of them also come either with Semi-Weighted or Weighted keys.
4. Drum Pads
The MIDI controllers have touch-sensitive pads that can be used for a variety of purposes like triggering samples, controlling software, tapping out beats, and many more. The MIDI drum pads are used to control hardware or software drum machines. If you are someone who does a lot of Beat making or record drums using a keyboard, these Drum Pads streamline the drum session. Almost every MIDI controller offers Drum Pads and you just need to make sure it comes with velocity-sensitive pads with Note Repeat.
5. Knobs and Faders
The MIDI controllers come with a variety of knobs and faders which might be helpful for a more tactile approach to music composition. To add automation and enhance the expressiveness of your music, you can instantly manipulate many settings in your DAW and software instruments by assigning these knobs and faders. These Knobs and faders help you to tune the sound by changing attack, sustain, velocity, adding reverb, gain, compressor and whatnot.
6. Connectivity Options
Most often, the MIDI controllers are connected to a computer or a synthesizer. The MIDI controller can be connected to other instruments by 5-pin MIDI DIN cables or by USB cable. A few of the MIDI Controllers even come with USB Type-C connectivity, especially the MIDI Controller for Logic Pro and macOS. You will even find a Bluetooth MIDI controller that lets you play MIDI controllers wirelessly without connecting any cables.
Here is everything you need to know about MIDI Cables and how these are different from each other.
7. Transpose Controls
Transpose controls in MIDI controllers allow you to change the MIDI notes sent by the keyboard and allow you to modify the pitches of audio and MIDI for playback without changing the actual MIDI notes or the audio. This allows you to shift the keys of a MIDI keyboard or other controller up or down by a set number of semitones.
For example, if you transpose up by 5 semitones, playing a C would sound like an F. This makes it easy to play in different keys without learning new fingerings.
Apart from that, it also lets you change keys, and octaves, create harmonies, and map to different instruments.
8. Modulation and Pitch Bend Wheel
Pitch bend and modulation wheels are two of the most widely used control mechanisms on MIDI controllers and they are essential in sculpting the sound that the synth produces. The player can adjust the pitch upward or downward up to 2 semitones by using the pitch bend control mechanism. Pitch Bend is similar to String Bend in guitar.
Modulation on the other hand adds Vibrato expression to the sound which is mostly used by players when a single note is held for a longer duration of time.
Some of the popular MIDI Controller from Arturia also come with Modulation and Pitch Bend Touch strips instead of Wheel which also works flawlessly.
9. Compatible DAWs
MIDI controllers are typically available in DAWs to adjust parameters while live editing. The DAWs are commonly used in the music industry for recording, storing, and mixing audio tracks as well as for adding effects and equalization. Every modern-day music is produced on some DAW. The most commonly used DAWs are Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and FL Studio.
If you are using Ableton LIVE, here are best MIDI Controller for Ableton that will offer you easy integration of DAW with your MIDI controller.
Best MIDI Controller for Logic Pro: Final Words
We think the list of MIDI controllers for Logic Pro X that we’ve mentioned above is the best choice for those who are looking for MIDI controllers that are exclusive to Mac users for Logic Pro X and we believe these MIDI controllers can provide you with great music production experience.
Having a suitable musical instrument is crucial whether you’ve just started your musical journey or you’re a seasoned player and by keeping that in mind, we’ve mentioned all the important features you need to know before deciding to buy one. We hope that the list of top MIDI controllers for Logic Pro X has given you a better understanding of all the features that MIDI controllers offer.
We have also mentioned the best MIDI Controller For Logic Pro for Beginners like M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 and Alesis V49 MK2. These beginner-oriented MIDI Keyboards have an affordable price range and offer basic controls and features that are easy to learn and practice.
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