Cubase is one of the more popular DAWS and is one that I have grown familiar with. For the most part, it’s easy to use and it allows you to do everything that you would need to do. With this being said, there are MIDI keyboard controllers that work well with it and I want to breakdown some great options for you.
In this article, we are going to break down the best MIDI keyboard controllers for Cubase.
The best keyboard for Cubase is going to be something that has good functionality with the DAW as well as some pads, keys, knobs, and preferably aftertouch.
If you’re using Cubase as your main DAW, here’s a quick look at a few controllers I urge you to check out.
All four of these options are quality picks that I have personally used and really enjoy. If you’re not a serious producer or you’re just beginning, I would recommend picking the MPK Mini MK2.
Best Cubase MIDI Controllers:
1. Akai MPK Mini MK2
The Akai MPK Mini MK2 is one of the most popular controllers in the game currently. It’s cheap, the functionality is great, and it also comes with some pretty nice software.
I recommend this to beginners often as it’s great for portability and it’s easy to use. If you are constantly on the go, the MK2 is perfect.
The pitch bend is the one thing on this controller that I don’t think is great. It’s stiff and it doesn’t give me too much use.
I personally own this portable mini MIDI controller and I absolutely love using it as my second controller.
The bundled software, the functionality, and the portability are really hard to top. I personally recommend this as your first controller, especially with Cubase. You will find that this is really easy to use, yet it still can be used at a high level.
2. Arturia Keylab MKII 61
The Keylab MKII 61 is a rather new controller by Arturia and a good one at that. It comes with 5 control inputs and 16 RGB backlit pads. The pad functionality is some of my favorite with this controller as you will find they’re not too stiff.
You will notice the sleek design with the Keylab MKII and one thing that I need to mention is that keys feel really nice for a MIDI controller.
There is included software and the durability with this controller is top-notch. Arturia typically makes keyboards like tanks. I always make that joke, but it’s no lie. The first time I recorded with one I was blown away by how durable it was. Some controllers feel extremely cheap, and this is not the case.
This is the best MIDI controller for Cubase. It’s a brand new controller that has aftertouch and it also is extremely durable.
3. Akai MPD218
The Akai MPD218 is the premier budget controller for Cubase. This is easy to use, it’s cheap, and the pads feel really nice.
The functionality is great with all major DAWS including Cubase. If you’ve had troubles with mapping your controllers, this is a perfect pick as it will be pre-mapped.
This is a great controller keyboard for beginners, that is definitely worth checking out.
The Akai MPD218 is the best current controller for budget choices. It’s a pad controller than doesn’t have keys but allows you to lay down drum beats and trigger samples.
