Review MIDI keyboard Novation Launchkey 25 MK2. Where to buy it?

Novation Digital Music Systems Ltd. is a British music equipment manufacturer, founded in 1992 by Ian Jannaway and Mark Thompson as Novation Electronic Music Systems. I’ll tell you how this post is built. I’ll tell you how this post is built. First, I’m going to list the features of this Novation Launchkey 25 MK2 keyboard. Then you have a video or two, purchase links and useful comments from other users and then you have one of the most useful parts; comparison tables with similar keyboards so you can compare.

  • 25 speed-sensitive keys
  • 16 speed-sensitive pads backlit with RGB
  • Scale and chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • MIDI capture function
  • MIDI mappings
  • Locking the device
  • Tone shift and modulation wheel
  • 2 x 16 character display
  • 8 knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Dimensions: 463 x 77 x 258 mm (width x height x depth)
  • Weight: 1.81 kg
  • Includes licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings

review novation-launchkey-25-mk2
This MIDI keyboard is usually priced at around €165/£149/$168 and offers 25 speed-sensitive keys that allow you to play and compose different musical ideas on your favourite DAW, and using the libraries you have.

As control functions it also offers 16 RGB backlit speed-sensitive ‘pads’, 8 assignable knobs, control buttons, octave up/down buttons, movement buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels.

On connections, it integrates a sustain input, MIDI output and USB connection, where it is also powered.

Includes licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings.

Now that we have seen the features of

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgtXwg3ucbc

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Novation Launchkey 25 MK2 vs Akai MPK mini Mk2

The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €165/£149/$168 when the Akai MPK mini MK2 white is priced at €79/£70/$81. Let’s see your face to face:

  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 provides 25 speed-sensitive keys, while the Akai MPK mini MK2 provides 25 sensitive mini keys.
  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 features 16 RGB backlit speed-sensitive ‘pads’, 8 assignable knobs, control buttons, octave up/down buttons, movement buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels. And the Akai MPK mini MK2 offers a thumbstick to control pitch bend or modulation, 8 MPC pads (Midi Production Center, octave up/down buttons and arpeggiator, and also the 8 assignable knobs.
  • Both offer a sustained input and USB connection. The Novation has a MIDI output as well.
  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 includes the licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings. And the Akai MPK mini MK2 white includes the Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials licenses.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3

Akai MPK mini MK2 white
  • 25 speed-sensitive keys
  • 16 speed-sensitive pads backlit with RGB
  • Scale and chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • MIDI capture function
  • MIDI mappings
  • Locking the device
  • Tone shift and modulation wheel
  • 2 x 16 character display
  • 8 knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Dimensions: 463 x 77 x 258 mm (width x height x depth)
  • Weight: 1.81 kg
  • Includes licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings
  • 25 mini synthesizer action keys
  • New 4-way ‘thumbstick’ for dynamic tone/modulation control
  • 8 MPC pads with note repetition
  • Arpeggiator
  • 8 assignable control knobs for mixing, adjusting plugins and more
  • Ultra-compact design allows you to create anywhere
  • Additional inputs: 1 x 6.3 mm jack for sustain pedal
  • Powered by USB
  • No power adapter required
  • Full size sustain pedal input jack
  • Includes complete production software package (downloads): Hybrid 3 by AIR Music Tech, SONiVOX Wobble and Akai Pro MPC Essentials
  • Dimensions: 317 x 181 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 748 g
  • Color: White

In this comparison, we have on the one hand the Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 that we have already analyzed previously and on the other hand, we have the Akai MPK mini MK2 that offers 25 mini synth-action keys, a thumbstick to control the pitch bend or modulation, 8 MPC pads (Midi Production Center, octave up/down buttons and arpeggiator, and also the 8 assignable knobs.

The advantage of the Novation is its 25 full-size keys and its large number of pads. Now as an advantage of the Akai MPK mini MK2 we can count on its set of control functions, which for its price, really is very good. If you want to have a normal 2-octave keyboard with moderate control functions, go for the Novation Impulse 25 MK3, and if you don’t mind having mini-keys and a great set of control functions go for the Akai MPK mini MK2.

And here’s a video of the Akai MPK mini MK2 white

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Akai MPK mini Mk2 review

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 vs Novation Launchkey 49 MK3

The Novation Launchkey 25 MK2 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €165/£149/$168 while the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 is priced at €222/£205/$224. We will see your face to face:

  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 provides 25 speed-sensitive keys, while the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 provides 49 sensitive keys.
  • Both offer 16 RGB-backlit speed-sensitive ‘pads’, 8 assignable knobs, control buttons, octave up/down buttons, movement buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels. And buttons for certain other functions.
  • Both offer a sustain input, MIDI output and USB connection.
  • Both include the licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3

Novation Launchkey 49 MK3
  • 25 speed-sensitive keys
  • 16 speed-sensitive pads backlit with RGB
  • Scale and chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • MIDI capture function
  • MIDI mappings
  • Locking the device
  • Tone shift and modulation wheel
  • 2 x 16 character display
  • 8 knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Dimensions: 463 x 77 x 258 mm (width x height x depth)
  • Weight: 1.81 kg
  • Includes licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings
  • 49 speed-sensitive keys
  • 16 Sensitive Pads with RGB illumination
  • Scale and Chord Modes
  • Arpeggiator
  • Capture MIDI function
  • MIDI Mappings
  • Device Lock function
  • Pitch and modulation wheels
  • 2x 16-digit displays
  • 8 regulators
  • Buttons for octave up / down, arp / scale / fixed chord, play / stop / record / loop, track navigation, stop / solo / mute, MIDI capture / quantization / click / undo, scene start, Device selection and Device lock functions
  • Input for 6.3 mm Sustain Jack pedal
  • USB-B connection
  • MIDI output
  • Powered by USB
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 789 x 77 x 258 mm
  • Weight: 3.03 kg
  • Includes Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 virtual keyboards selectable), Klevgrand R0Verb and DAW Cassette, Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings

In this comparison we find two very similar models, both are Novation Launchkey, the 25- and 49-key version. They offer virtually the same control functions, but we found advantages in the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3, which are certain additional function buttons and integrated MIDI output. If you’re on a budget, look into the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3, otherwise, the Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 is not a bad choice.

And here’s a video of the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3 review.

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 vs Alesis VI25

The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €165/£149/$168 when the Alesis VI25 is priced at €139/£122/$138, with a difference of £26. Let’s go head to head:

  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 provides 25 speed-sensitive keys, while the Alesis VI25 provides 25 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch and sensitivity.
  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 features 16 RGB backlit speed-sensitive ‘pads’, 8 assignable knobs, control buttons, octave up/down buttons, movement buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels. The Alesis VI25 offers 16 RGB backlit speed-sensitive trigger pads for rhythm production and clip release, an interface with 24 assignable buttons and 8 assignable knobs with your music software, and pitch bend and modulation wheels that provide precise and creative control.
  • Both offer a sustain input, MIDI output and USB connection. The Alesis VI25 features an integrated external power supply.
  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 includes the licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings.

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3

Alesis VI25
  • 25 speed-sensitive keys
  • 16 speed-sensitive pads backlit with RGB
  • Scale and chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • MIDI capture function
  • MIDI mappings
  • Locking the device
  • Tone shift and modulation wheel
  • 2 x 16 character display
  • 8 knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Dimensions: 463 x 77 x 258 mm (width x height x depth)
  • Weight: 1.81 kg
  • Includes licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings
  • 25 full-size semi-weighted aftertouch keys with square front
  • 16 speed-sensitive trigger pads with RGB backlighting for rhythm production and clip release
  • Interface with 24 buttons and 8 knobs that can be assigned to your music software
  • Pitch and modulation wheels provide precise and creative control
  • Seamless visual information via LED display and illuminated buttons + knobs
  • USB MIDI port and 5-pin MIDI output offer flexible MIDI connectivity
  • USB powered
  • Plug-and-Play support for Mac and PC
  • Includes USB cable, Ableton Live Lite software (download), Xpand! 2 software (download)

In this comparison, we have on the one hand the Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 with its functions and features that we have already analyzed before, and on the other hand, we have the Alesis VI25 that offers 25 semi-weighted keys with full-size aftertouch with square front, 16 speed-sensitive trigger pads with RGB backlighting for rhythm production and clip release, an interface with 24 assignable buttons and 8 assignable knobs with your music software and pitch bend and modulation wheels that provide precise and creative control.

The advantage of the Alesis is that it has a semi-balanced keyboard that is much better than the competition’s, as well as an interface with 24 assignable buttons. As an advantage of the Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 has its licenses that are mostly for beginners are highly valued. As a MIDI controller, the Alesis VI25 has more advantages, so we can say that it is the best choice. Go for it.

And here is a video of the Alesis VI25 keyboard

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Alesis VI25 review.

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 vs Arturia MiniLab MKII

The Novation Launchkey 25 MK2 MIDI Keyboard is priced at €165/£149/$168 when the Arturia MiniLab MKII is priced at €91/£82/$91, with a difference of £74 between them. This is your face-to-face:

  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 provides 25 speed-sensitive keys, while the Arturia MiniLab MKII provides 25 sensitive mini keys.
  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 features 16 RGB backlit speed-sensitive ‘pads’, 8 assignable knobs, control buttons, octave up/down buttons, movement buttons, and pitch bend and modulation wheels. The Arturia MiniLab MKII offers 16 assignable knobs, 8 sensitive backlit pads, touch strips for pitch bend and modulation.
  • Both offer a sustained input and USB connection. The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 features an integrated MIDI output as well.
  • The Novation Launchkey 25 MK3 includes the licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings. The Arturia Minilab MKII includes the licenses for Analog Lab Lite with 500 sounds in V-Collection 5 quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano (software requires a download from the manufacturer’s website).

Let’s put the features of these keyboards in a table so you can compare

Novation Launchkey 25 MK3

Arturia MiniLab MKII
  • 25 speed-sensitive keys
  • 16 speed-sensitive pads backlit with RGB
  • Scale and chord mode
  • Arpeggiator
  • MIDI capture function
  • MIDI mappings
  • Locking the device
  • Tone shift and modulation wheel
  • 2 x 16 character display
  • 8 knobs
  • Power supply via USB
  • Dimensions: 463 x 77 x 258 mm (width x height x depth)
  • Weight: 1.81 kg
  • Includes licenses for Ableton Live Lite, Serato Sample LE, AAS Session Bundle, XLN Addictive Keys (1 of 4 selectable virtual keyboards), Klevgrand R0Verb-, DAW Cassette and Spitfire Audio LABS-Expressive Strings
  • 25 speed-sensitive mini keys
  • 16 rotary encoders (2 of them are clickable)
  • 2 banks of 8 speed and pressure-sensitive pads with RGB backlighting
  • Touchstrips for pitch bend and modulation
  • Connection for sustain pedal
  • USB connection
  • Bus-powered
  • Dimensions: 355 x 220 x 50mm (width x depth x height)
  • Weight: 1,5kg
  • Includes license for Analog Lab Lite software with 500 sounds in V-Collection 5 quality, Ableton Live Lite and UVI Grand Piano (software requires a download from manufacturer’s website)

And here’s a video of the Arturia MiniLab MKII

If you want to know more about this option, click on the following link to see the Arturia MiniLab MKII review.

Which is the best of these MIDI keyboards if I am a beginner on a low budget?

While the answer to this question lies mostly in what specific need you have, for example, if you want to have a keyboard with the widest range of notes possible, or if you want to have as many control functions as possible, or perhaps a mix between the two, that is without leaving behind the different connections and software licenses that most MIDI controllers offer, we will give an objective opinion according to our experience in music production and thus also with the price demanded by the controllers, a kind of value for money.

In this post, we have MIDI controllers with a price not higher than 222 euros, and as a star product we have the Novation Launchkey 25 MK2 that offers 25 keys of normal size and with speed sensitivity (intensity in MIDI language), plus 16 RGB pads (Red Green Blue lighting), 8 assignable knobs, and other control functions, as well as it integrates a sustain pedal input and MIDI output, it also includes excellent licenses. All this adds up to a very balanced MIDI controller that is ideal for beginners. Go for it.

Where to buy the Novation Launchkey 25 MK2

Thomann

  • Free Shipping.
  • Full warranty. If you have any problems, they take care of everything.
  • 100% reliable payment.
  • A leader in trouble-free shipping.
  • Usually the Best price.
  • Best Reputation: They are the leading online store in Europe and have the best catalog and information.

Amazon

  • Free Shipping and the possibility of shipping in one day with Amazon Premium.
  • Full Guarantee but they are no experts in music equipment.
  • Sometimes a better price.
  • He’s got worse stock than Thomann.

Also, look at these models with a similar price and features:

Jaime Echagüe

Hi! I'm Jaime Echagüe, a musician and an authentic fan of musical instruments. With this blog I want to give general information about musical instruments in an easy, direct and honest way. I hope you enjoy my website and that you find it very useful.

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