Novation Electronic Keyboards: 4 Picks Ranked by Specs

Quick picks

Our 4 picks

1 Best overall

Novation Launchkey Mini 37 MK4

Best for: Portable DAW control and beat creation

Number of Keys

37

Connectivity

USB-C, MIDI

Color

Black

Dimensions

18.8 × 6.96 × 1.93 inches

Weight

2.25 pounds

View on Amazon: Novation Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 Affiliate link

The Novation Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is a compact USB MIDI controller with 37 mini keys. It features 16 FSR pads with polyphonic aftertouch for drumming and clip launching. The unit integrates with major DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic. It includes Scale Mode and chord triggers to assist composition. Weighing 2.25 pounds, it is portable for desktop use.

Pros

• 37 mini keys with USB connectivity
• 16 FSR pads with polyphonic aftertouch
• Seamless integration with major DAWs
• Built-in Scale Mode and chord triggers

Cons

• Mini key size limits full-range playability
• USB-only power and data connection
• No built-in speakers or audio outputs

Good fit if

• You need a portable controller for laptop production
• You work primarily in Ableton Live or Logic
• You want responsive pads for beat creation

Skip if

• You require full-sized piano keys
• You need standalone sound generation
• You want wireless Bluetooth connectivity

Verdict: Novation Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is a compact controller for producers who prioritize portability and DAW integration over full-sized keys. It fits users who need a lightweight setup for desktop music creation.

2 Best budget

Novation FLkey 37 USB MIDI Keyboard

Best for: FL Studio sketching and compact desktop setups

Number of Keys

37

Key Action

synth-action

Connectivity

USB-C, 5-Pin MIDI

Dimensions

9.88 × 21.9 × 3.11 inches

Weight

4.81 pounds

View on Amazon: Novation FLkey 37 USB MIDI Keyboard Affiliate link

The Novation FLkey 2 is a 37-key USB MIDI controller designed for FL Studio. It features 25 synth-action mini-keys, 16 velocity-sensitive pads, and eight mapping knobs. The unit includes built-in Scale and Chord modes with an arpeggiator. Weighing 4.81 pounds, it is compact enough for small desks. It suits producers who need a streamlined workflow for sketching basslines and melodies.

Pros

• 37 keys with 25 synth-action mini-keys for playing
• 16 velocity-sensitive pads for finger drumming and sequencing
• Eight knobs for direct control of levels and effects
• Built-in Scale and Chord modes with arpeggiator

Cons

• Synth-action mini-keys lack weighted feel
• USB-MIDI only; no wireless connectivity
• No dedicated display screen for status info

Good fit if

• You use FL Studio and want tight integration
• You need a compact controller for small spaces
• You value chord and scale assistance features

Skip if

• You require full-sized weighted keys for piano technique
• You need standalone synthesizer sound generation
• You prefer acoustic piano key resistance

Verdict: The Novation FLkey 2 37 MIDI Controller is a focused tool for FL Studio users who prioritize compact size and chord assistance over weighted key feel. It fits producers who sketch ideas quickly rather than those seeking traditional piano performance.

3 Best blue

Novation MiniNova Blue Analog Synthesizer

Best for: compact analog sound design and vocal effects

Number of Keys

37

Sound Engine

Analog modeling

Preset Sounds

256

Connectivity

USB, mic input

Color

Blue

Dimensions

2.95 × 22 × 9.84 inches

View on Amazon: Novation MiniNova Blue Analog Synthesizer Affiliate link

The Novation MiniNova is a compact analog modeling synthesizer in blue. It features mini-sized keys and a powerful engine designed by Chris Huggett. You get 256 preset sounds and 128 user slots. The unit includes vocal tuning and real-time arpeggiation. At 6 pounds, it is portable. This instrument suits producers seeking gritty bass and vintage tones in a small footprint.

Pros

• Analog modeling sound engine by Chris Huggett
• 256 presets and 128 user sound slots
• Built-in VocalTune for automatic pitch correction
• Compact 22-inch width and 6-pound weight
• Real-time arpeggiator and Animate performance buttons

Cons

• Mini-sized keys may feel cramped for some players
• No display screen mentioned for parameter editing
• Limited to monophonic analog modeling architecture

Good fit if

• You need a portable synth for studio or live use
• You want to experiment with vocal processing and tuning
• You prefer analog modeling over pure digital synthesis

Skip if

• You require full-sized weighted keys for piano technique
• You need polyphonic sound generation
• You prefer a large display for easy navigation

Verdict: Novation MiniNova Blue Analog Synthesizer fits producers who need a compact, character-rich analog modeling tool. It is ideal for those prioritizing sound design flexibility and portability over traditional keyboard feel.

4 Best premium

Novation Bass Station II Analog Monosynth

Best for: Analog bass and lead sound design

Number of Keys

25

Key Action

Aftertouch

Sound Engine

Analog

Preset Sounds

128 patches (64 factory sounds)

Connectivity

USB, 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O

Dimensions

10.7 × 18 × 3 inches

View on Amazon: Novation Bass Station II Analog Monosynth Affiliate link

The Novation Bass Station II is a mono analog synthesizer designed for sound design rather than performance. It features two tuneable oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and noise sources to generate complex tones. The unit includes a classic multi-mode filter and a new 24dB Acid Filter for aggressive or mellow textures. You can store 128 patches, with 64 factory sounds included. Its compact 18-inch width and 5.38-pound weight make it a portable desktop unit.

Pros

• Two tuneable analog oscillators with four waveforms
• Classic multi-mode and 24dB Acid Filter
• 128 patch storage capacity
• Built-in step sequencer and arpeggiator
• MIDI I/O on 5-pin DIN ports

Cons

• No built-in keyboard for direct playing
• Monophonic sound engine only
• No USB audio interface connectivity

Good fit if

• You need a dedicated bass and lead sound source
• You want to route external instruments through analog filters
• You prefer hardware-based sound design workflows

Skip if

• You require polyphonic chord playing
• You need a plug-and-play keyboard controller
• You want to connect via USB for audio only

Verdict: The Novation Bass Station II Analog Monosynth is a compact, filter-focused sound generator for producers who need rich analog textures. It fits users who prioritize sound design depth over performance keys.

Specifications side by side

Novation Electronic Keyboards: 4 Picks Ranked by Specs

Novation’s lineup splits into controllers and synthesizers. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 and FLkey 37 offer compact USB-MIDI control. The MiniNova and Bass Station II provide standalone analog sound design. You choose based on whether you need keybeds or just knobs.

Portability matters for desktop producers. The Launchkey weighs just 2.25 pounds. The FLkey adds chord assistance for quick sketching. The MiniNova offers blue analog modeling in a small footprint. The Bass Station II focuses on monophonic bass textures. Each unit serves a distinct workflow need.

Who Novation Keyboards Suit

Novation’s range spans from ultra-compact mini controllers to standalone analog synths. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 measures just 18.8 inches wide and weighs 2.25 pounds, making it ideal for tight desktops. The FLkey 37 offers a slightly wider 37-key layout for sketching. For sound design, the MiniNova and Bass Station II provide character-rich analog textures in small footprints. You will not find full-sized weighted keyboards or Bluetooth connectivity in this list. This brand suits producers prioritizing portability and DAW integration over traditional piano performance.

How to Choose a Novation Keyboard

1. Check Key Size and Layout

   Novation offers mini keys and 37-key layouts. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 uses mini keys, which save space but feel smaller under your fingers. This suits tight desks. The FLkey 37 has 37 full-sized keys. This layout offers more range for playing chords. Choose mini keys for portability. Choose 37 keys for better playability. Your choice depends on how much desk space you have. It also depends on whether you need more notes for your music production workflow.

2. Verify Connectivity Type

   Most Novation controllers use USB-MIDI. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 and FLkey 37 both rely on USB-MIDI connections. This means you need a computer or tablet to use them. They do not have internal speakers or batteries. You must plug them into your device. This setup keeps the units lightweight. The MiniNova and Bass Station II are synthesizers. They generate sound internally. They may need MIDI connections for control. Check if your setup supports the required connection type before buying.

3. Consider Weight and Portability

   Portability matters for mobile producers. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 weighs 2.25 pounds. It is the lightest option here. You can carry it easily in a bag. The FLkey 37 weighs 4.81 pounds. It is heavier due to its larger size. The MiniNova weighs 6 pounds. The Bass Station II weighs 5.38 pounds. If you travel often, pick the lightest controller. If you leave your gear at home, weight matters less. Compare the poundage to your transport needs.

4. Match the Color to Your Desk

   Novation provides specific color options. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is black. The FLkey 37 is black with orange accents. The MiniNova is blue. The Bass Station II is black with blue details. These colors help you identify your gear quickly. They also match your desk aesthetic. A black controller blends in with most setups. A blue synth stands out. Choose the color that fits your visual preference. The color does not affect performance. It is purely a cosmetic choice for your workspace.

5. Define Your Primary Use

   Your main task dictates the right model. The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is for DAW control. It helps you mix and create beats. The FLkey 37 is for FL Studio sketching. It offers chord assistance for quick ideas. The MiniNova is for analog sound design. It creates unique synth textures. The Bass Station II focuses on bass and lead sounds. Decide if you need control, sketching, or sound generation. Pick the model that matches your primary creative goal. Do not buy a synth if you only need a controller.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• novation bass station ii analog vs mininova analog modeling
• novation vs MUSTAR electronic keyboard
• best novation keyboards
• best gaming keyboards for gaming