AKAI MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Keyboard Controller – Compact USB-Powered Beat Maker with 25 Keys, MPC Pads & Production Software

The AKAI MPK Mini MK3 MIDI Controller has been designed to meet the evolving needs of modern producers and beatmakers seeking portability, powerful performance tools, and professional software integration. As the latest version in AKAI’s iconic MPK Mini series, the MK3 brings refined design elements, upgraded hardware, and seamless compatibility with leading digital audio workstations. Built with a newly engineered Gen 2 dynamic keybed, the MPK Mini MK3 ensures expressive playability across genres, allowing precise control of every note—whether triggering grand pianos, cutting synth leads, or smooth electric keys.

Perfect for on-the-go creativity or home studio setups, this compact controller delivers a complete music production package. Integrated features such as 8 genuine MPC-style pads with Note Repeat and Full Level, a 4-way joystick for pitch and modulation control, and 8 infinite rotary knobs provide the tactile feedback needed for shaping sounds, triggering samples, and mixing tracks with accuracy. Additionally, producers are supported with powerful software including MPC Beats DAW and virtual instruments from AIR Music Tech. For beginners and professionals alike, the MPK Mini MK3 opens the door to music creation without limitations, combining pro-level performance with plug-and-play simplicity.

Key Features Explained:

• 25 Mini Velocity-Sensitive Keys
  A newly developed Gen 2 dynamic keybed captures expressive performances with improved sensitivity and response, offering better articulation for both melodic and harmonic content.

• OLED Display
  A clear, real-time OLED screen delivers instant visual feedback for software parameters, making live tweaking and navigation easier without relying on the computer screen.

• 8 Backlit MPC-Style Pads
  Velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads pulled directly from AKAI’s flagship MPC models allow accurate finger drumming and sample triggering. Two banks offer a total of 16 assignable pads.

• 8 Endless Rotary Knobs
  Fully assignable knobs provide seamless control over DAW parameters, plugin settings, and instrument levels for hands-on mixing and sound design.

• 4-Way Joystick
  A versatile thumbstick enables intuitive pitch bend and modulation adjustments with three customizable modes for expressive play.

• USB Class-Compliant Connectivity
  Compatible with both Mac and PC without the need for drivers or external power, offering simple setup and immediate integration with your preferred DAW.

• Built-In Arpeggiator
  Add movement and rhythm to chords and notes using the onboard arpeggiator with adjustable tempo, gate, and swing controls—ideal for EDM, pop, and electronic genres.

• Included Production Software
  Comes bundled with MPC Beats, AIR Music Tech plugins (including Hype, Stage Piano, and Electric), and expansion packs for a complete production toolkit out of the box.

• Educational Access & Free Subscriptions
  Includes 60 free lessons through Melodics for mastering keys and pads, plus limited-time offers such as one month of Splice and six months of Reason+ for added creative firepower.

Full Specifications:

• Note Keys: (25) velocity-sensitive keys; 10-octave range with octave up/down buttons

• Pads: (8) assignable backlit pads, velocity- and pressure-sensitive; 2 banks

• Knobs: (8) assignable 360° knobs

• X-Y Controller: (1) configurable thumbstick with 3 modes

• Connections:

  • (1) 1/4" (6.35mm) TS input for sustain pedal

  • (1) USB port

• Power: USB Bus-powered

• Dimensions (W x D x H): 12.5" x 7.13" x 1.75" / 318mm x 181mm x 44mm

• Weight: 1.65 lbs / 0.75 kg

Conclusion:
The AKAI MPK Mini MK3 has been purpose-built to empower music creators with a flexible, intuitive, and powerful MIDI controller. From beginner musicians exploring digital production for the first time to seasoned professionals requiring a compact and reliable tool for performance and composition, the MPK Mini MK3 delivers versatility in every aspect. With its enhanced keybed, signature MPC pads, dynamic control layout, and bundled software, this controller has become a trusted companion in any music-making journey.