Mini Keyboard Keys Benefits and Drawbacks

While it is sometimes difficult to review a concept, the concept of mini keyboard keys has definitely formed some fairly strong opinions. From toy keyboards with nothing but a speaker output to compact MIDI controllers with more knobs and pads than you can shake a stick at, there is certainly a lot of diversity out there.

To start off, mini keyboard keys are exceptional at providing you extra space for other features while allowing you the ability to play the same notes. While it can be daunting to figure out how to properly use the smaller keys without messing things up, it takes a while to learn how to play piano in the first place. When the microKORG was first released, people were stunned by the size. They, however, did not expect that such a small device could produce such a wide variety of massive sounds. Over time, people began to appreciate that while the smaller keys do not necessarily have the tactile feel, the small sacrifice that is made is always for a better cause.

This Korg microSTATION review describes one of the best uses of this feature. Not only does it a total of 61 keys, but the reduction in keyboard size provides a great deal of room for other features. Aside from being a relatively small workstation, the unit features a sixteen step sequencer with a wonderful visual grid. Essentially, the added space gives you an additional feature that expands your creative talent.

In this Roland Gaia review, there is an argument more towards larger keys and a simpler interface. With all of the sound synthesis features, why is it even important to have larger keys? Would it not be more helpful to be able to quickly test the current sound through multiple octaves? I also think that some dedicated LPF or HPF knobs would be nice so you can perform without messing up your presets.

In conclusion, mini keyboard keys will not be replacing full sized keys, but they certainly will be here to stay. There is a small sacrifice of playability and a learning curve, but the benefits are lower price cost (for what you are getting) and most likely additional features and keys.