Best MIDI Keyboard Controllers For FL Studio 2025

I’ve spent years working inside FL Studio, and over that time I’ve tested just about every MIDI controller you can buy. Some work well with the DAW, others feel clunky and slow things down. The ones I’m including here are the controllers I actually keep in my studio and use on real projects. From full-size keyboards to compact options for traveling, these are the picks that make producing in FL Studio faster and more enjoyable.

Editor’s Note: I just updated this guide today (August 2025) to include the newest controllers I’ve been using, including the Novation FL Keys 61 and Launchkey Mini MK4.

My Top Picks

Model	Best For
Novation FL Keys 61	Best overall FL Studio controller Read More	View Price
Novation FL Keys 37	Compact option with tight FL Studio integration Read More	View Price
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MK3	Affordable full 88-key controller Read More	View Price
Nektar Panorama T4	Versatile hybrid controller with great pads Read More	View Price
Akai MPC Live	Pad-focused production workflow Read More	View Price
Novation Launchkey Mini MK4	Best portable and budget option Read More	View Price

Features

Model	Keys	Pads	Portability	FL Studio Integration	Price Range
Novation FL Keys 61	61 full-size	16 velocity-sensitive	Medium	Seamless, FL-specific	Mid-range
Novation FL Keys 37	37 full-size	16 velocity-sensitive	High	Seamless, FL-specific	Budget-friendly
Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MK3	88 full-size	8 backlit	Low	Good, not FL-specific	Affordable for 88 keys
Nektar Panorama T4	49 full-size	8 velocity-sensitive	Medium	Strong after setup (MCU)	Mid-range
Akai MPC Live	No piano keys	16 MPC pads	Medium	Good with setup, pad-first	Higher-end
Novation Launchkey Mini MK4	25 mini	16 velocity-sensitive	Very high	Smooth, not FL-specific	Budget

Best FL Studio MIDI Controllers

Novation FL Keys 61 – Best Overall for FL Studio

The Novation FL Keys 61 has become the centerpiece of my FL Studio setup. I’ve tried just about every controller you can pair with FL, and this is the first one that feels like it was designed to be part of the DAW instead of just an accessory. The 61 keys give me enough range to play full chord progressions and basslines without constantly shifting octaves, and the direct integration means I can stay focused on creating instead of menu diving. This controller hasn’t just improved my workflow, it’s made producing inside FL Studio more fun.

Pros

• Seamless integration with FL Studio
• 61 full-sized keys for comfortable playing
• Responsive velocity-sensitive pads tied to the channel rack
• Transport and mixer controls built in
• Solid build quality

Cons

• Keys are solid but not premium
• Larger footprint takes up more desk space
• Not as useful for producers switching between multiple DAWs

What I Like

The biggest win with the FL Keys 61 is the seamless FL Studio integration. Everything works out of the box, from the transport controls to the mixer navigation. I also really like the 61 key format since it’s a sweet spot for composing. The pads feel great and map directly to the channel rack, which makes beat-making fast and intuitive. Build quality is solid, and even though it’s not the heaviest controller, it stays in place while playing.

What I Don’t Like

The keys are good but don’t quite have the premium feel of Arturia’s top-tier controllers. The size might be too large if you’re working in a small space, and while it shines with FL Studio, it’s not as flexible if you frequently work in other DAWs.

Verdict

After spending months with the FL Keys 61, I can confidently say it’s the best MIDI controller for FL Studio. It streamlines my workflow, feels natural to play, and was clearly designed for producers who want speed and control. If you mainly work inside FL Studio, this is the controller to get.

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Novation FL Keys 37 – Best 37 Key Option For Those On A Budget

The Novation FL Keys 37 is the smaller sibling of the FL Keys 61, and it’s just as tightly integrated with FL Studio. I’ve been using this as my portable option when I don’t want to lug around a larger controller, and it’s quickly become my favorite compact keyboard for FL Studio. The 37 keys keep it lightweight and easy to carry, but you still get the same workflow benefits and seamless mapping that make the FL Keys series so powerful.

Pros

• Built specifically for FL Studio with full integration
• Compact size that’s easy to travel with
• Responsive velocity-sensitive pads mapped to the channel rack
• Affordable price compared to larger models
• Lightweight but still durable

Cons

• 37 keys can feel limiting for more advanced playing
• Not as versatile if you need a wider key range
• Still larger than mini controllers like the Launchkey Mini

What I Like

The portability is the biggest win here. I can throw the FL Keys 37 in a backpack and still get the same direct control over FL Studio that I have in my main setup. The pads are excellent for finger drumming, and the transport and mixer controls make it easy to create without relying on the mouse. For producing on the go or working in a small home setup, it’s a perfect balance of features and size.

What I Don’t Like

With only 37 keys, I often find myself shifting octaves when I’m trying to play with two hands. It’s not a deal breaker, but it’s a compromise if you’re used to 61 or 88 keys. While it’s much smaller than the 61, it’s still not as tiny or throw-in-your-bag portable as some mini controllers.

Verdict

The FL Keys 37 is my go-to travel controller for FL Studio. It has all the same workflow benefits of the 61 but in a compact format that makes it easy to take anywhere. If you’re short on space or need something portable without losing integration, this is the one to pick.

Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MK3 – Best Budget 88-Key Controller For FL Studio

The Arturia KeyLab Essential 88 MK3 has become one of my favorite budget-friendly full-size keyboards to pair with FL Studio. I wanted something that gave me the full 88-key range without breaking the bank, and this controller delivers. While it’s not built specifically for FL Studio like the Novation FL Keys line, I’ve been pleasantly surprised at how smooth the integration feels once it’s set up. For anyone who plays piano or needs the full range for composing, this is one of the best values out there.

Pros

• Full 88-key range at an affordable price point
• Lightweight for its size compared to other 88-key controllers
• Solid keybed for the price, good enough for piano players
• Bundled Arturia software adds a lot of value
• Useful controls and faders for DAW workflow

Cons

• Not as tightly integrated with FL Studio as the FL Keys series
• Pads are serviceable but not as responsive as Akai or Novation
• Keys feel good for the price, but not as premium as higher-end options

What I Like

The biggest advantage of the KeyLab Essential 88 MK3 is the price-to-range ratio. Getting a full 88 keys for this cost is rare, and it makes a huge difference when I’m working on piano-heavy tracks. The keybed is better than most budget controllers, and the faders and knobs are well-placed for quick adjustments. I also really like the bundled Arturia software, Analog Lab Intro is packed with usable sounds, and I still find myself going back to it when I want inspiration.

What I Don’t Like

Since it isn’t designed specifically for FL Studio, the workflow isn’t quite as seamless as the Novation FL Keys controllers. It takes a little extra setup to get everything mapped the way I like. The pads are fine, but I find them less responsive than what I’m used to from Akai or Novation. And while the keys are solid for the price, they don’t have the same premium feel as Arturia’s higher-end models like the KeyLab MKII.

Verdict

The KeyLab Essential 88 MK3 is one of the best deals if you want a full-sized keyboard without spending a fortune. It’s not as tightly connected to FL Studio as the FL Keys 61 or 37, but it still works very well once set up. For producers who want the full 88-key range and a reliable all-around controller, this is an excellent option.

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Nektar Panorama T4

The Nektar Panorama T4 is one of those controllers that quietly drives your workflow forward once you’ve spent time with it. I added this to my studio lineup because I wanted something compact, yet powerful, that could straddle both software and hardware control. Setting it up with FL Studio took a little time, but once it was dialed in, the control and flexibility it offers made it a standout in my workflow.

Pros

• Deep FL Studio control in MCU mode, including transport, mixing, and navigation
• Responsive keybed and pads that feel solid under the fingers
• Bundled Nektarine VST adds real value and functionality
• Small enough for tight studio spaces or hybrid hardware/software rigs

Cons

• Setup requires firmware and driver steps to unlock full FL Studio integration
• Smaller LCD screen has limited visibility into complex mappings
• Occasional reports of quality inconsistencies with faders and controls

What I Like

Once correctly configured, the Panorama T4 lets me control nearly every aspect of FL Studio without ever touching the mouse. Switching patterns, navigating the mixer, adjusting levels, and tweaking plugin parameters can all be done directly from the controller. The keybed feels heavier and more satisfying than average, and the pads are excellent for finger drumming. The bundled Nektarine software gives me access to a wide variety of sounds right away, which makes it feel more like a hybrid instrument than just a controller.

What I Don’t Like

The integration isn’t plug-and-play, you need to update the firmware and set it to MCU mode for it to work smoothly. Until that’s done, it doesn’t perform at the level you expect. The LCD display is small, which can make it harder to read parameters at a glance. While my unit has been solid, I’ve seen reports from other users about inconsistent quality in the faders.

Verdict

The Nektar Panorama T4 might not get the same attention as Novation or Arturia, but it’s one of the most versatile controllers I’ve used with FL Studio. If you want hands-on control of transport, mixing, and even plugins, it’s a great option that balances price and functionality. It’s a reliable workhorse in my studio and one I recommend to producers who want more depth than a simple entry-level controller.

Akai MPC Live – Best Pad-Centric Controller

The Akai MPC Live is one of those controllers that feels instantly familiar the moment you sit down with it. I’ve always considered the MPC pads to be the gold standard, and using this with FL Studio just confirms that. I added the MPC Live to my setup because I wanted something pad-focused for beat-heavy projects, and it’s delivered exactly that. Whether I’m working on hip hop, lo-fi, or EDM, this controller gives me a hands-on workflow that feels natural and creative.

Pros

• Legendary MPC pads that are large, responsive, and durable
• Standalone workflow that still integrates smoothly with FL Studio
• Built-in screen and interface make it easy to navigate without relying on the computer
• Solid, road-ready build quality
• Comes with bundled software and sounds

Cons

• More expensive than other pad-based controllers
• Learning curve if you’re new to the MPC workflow
• Larger and heavier than some of the other compact controllers

What I Like

The pads are the highlight here. They’re big, velocity-sensitive, and extremely responsive, making finger drumming and sampling a lot of fun. I love being able to put together entire grooves without touching the mouse, and the onboard screen gives me quick access to sounds and presets. The build quality is excellent — this is the type of gear you could throw in a bag for gigs and not worry about. Even after long sessions, it still feels solid and reliable.

What I Don’t Like

The learning curve is real if you’ve never used an MPC before. It’s a slightly different mindset compared to a standard MIDI keyboard, so it takes some time to get comfortable. It’s also on the pricey side compared to something like the FL Keys 37 or the Panorama T4. Finally, it’s not the lightest or most compact controller, so if portability is your main priority, this may not be the best fit.

Verdict

The Akai MPC Live is one of my favorite tools for beat-making inside FL Studio. The pads are unmatched, and the ability to work hands-on without relying on a laptop screen makes the creative process more fluid. While it comes with a higher price tag and some learning curves, once you get comfortable with it, it’s hard to go back to anything else. For producers who want the ultimate pad-based workflow, this is the controller to get.

Novation Launchkey Mini MK4 – Best Budget Keyboard For FL Studio

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK4 is my go-to when I need something small and lightweight but still capable of controlling FL Studio effectively. I’ve used earlier generations of this controller, and the MK4 feels like the most polished version yet. It’s tiny enough to throw in a backpack, but it still gives me the pads, knobs, and keys I need to sketch out full tracks. While it’s technically designed with Ableton in mind, it works really well in FL Studio with minimal setup.

Pros

• Extremely portable and lightweight
• Affordable entry point for beginners or secondary setups
• Solid integration with FL Studio for transport, pads, and mixer control
• Responsive pads for finger drumming and sample triggering
• MIDI out for connecting to hardware synths

Cons

• Mini keys are limiting for serious piano parts
• Fewer controls compared to larger Novation models
• Not as seamless as the FL Keys series inside FL Studio

What I Like

The size is what makes this controller so appealing. I can carry it anywhere and instantly have a way to record ideas in FL Studio. The pads are surprisingly good for finger drumming, and the addition of MIDI out makes it useful beyond just software. The knobs are responsive, and the integration with FL Studio is smooth enough that I don’t feel slowed down. For a budget option, it packs in a lot of features that make it great for beat-making on the go.

What I Don’t Like

The mini keys are fine for jotting down ideas, but I wouldn’t use them for serious piano playing or complex chord progressions. Compared to the FL Keys 37 or 61, the workflow is a little less direct since it isn’t built specifically for FL Studio. And while it’s portable, the small footprint means fewer pads and controls than a full-sized controller.

Verdict

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK4 is the best compact option I’ve used for FL Studio. It’s affordable, portable, and still gives you enough hands-on control to make it more than just a sketch pad. If you want something to carry around or pair with a laptop for quick sessions, this is the ideal choice.

Transport Controls

The MPC is a great pick for FL Studio and it also works with all major DAWs as well.

If you’re looking for a versatile controller, this is a great pick.

Overall

This is one of the better controllers on the market near its price range. The MPC Studio is the perfect pick for those on the fence and stuck between choices. You really can’t go wrong with this one.

Pros

• Great Pads
• Large Interface
• Easy To Navigate
• Bundled Software
• Nice Transport Controls
• Durable
• Light-weight

Cons

• Slight learning curve

Brief Background Of FL Studio

I remember a time when FL Studio was not on the same level as some of the mainstream DAWs, so it’s crazy that it’s made such a push forward and is now one of the powerhouses.

FL Studio was created by Image-Line and it was originally released back in 1998 under the name “Fruity Loops.”

It was originally just a 4 channel drum app and in 2003 they made the transition to re-launching as a full DAW.

What To Look For When Searching For A MIDI Keyboard For FL Studio

Price: Although the price is the most obvious, there a few things that get better as you go up in price range. Typically the keys & pads at the entry-level are going to feel a little bit cheap, however, if you’re a beginner, this is totally okay.

Features: Different controllers come with a range of different features. Some will come with pitch-bend/mod wheels, whereas, some will come with drum pads or keyboards.

Plugins: Some MIDI controllers for FL Studio will actually come with some free software plugins. I recommend getting one that has some plugins included as your plugins will be your bread & butter.

Style Of Music: You will find drum pad controllers and keyboard controllers. Depending on your style of music you wish to create, you will want to pick. If you’ve never really played the piano and you more so are looking to make beats, a drum pad controller will suffice.

DAW Controls: Some controllers will give you transport controls(pause, stop, play, record), right on the controller itself. This is nice as it makes your workflow smooth.

Configuration: To save time, it is wise to grab a controller that is preconfigured with FL Studio so that you don’t have to do it. This will also make it a lot easier when doing certain things on your controllers.

Conclusion

I hope this guide helped you pick the right MIDI controller for FL Studio.

While these are only 5 options to pick from, I think that these are the best options. I didn’t want to overwhelm you with decisions, especially if you’re new.

There are a ton of different options that would also work for FL Studio, I just have experience with these and think they offer more than the other options I left out.

Are you using anything with FL Studio that I didn’t mention? Let me know below!