The Novation FLpad is a 64-pad, 8×8 MIDI grid controller made in collaboration with Image-Line for desktop FL Studio. Its dedicated controls focus on Channel Rack sequencing and Pattern-based work; Novation’s custom integration requires FL Studio 26.1.6 or later.
What the FLpad is designed to do
Unlike a general-purpose pad controller, FLpad has dedicated views and controls for FL Studio workflows: sequencing, playing notes, managing Patterns, navigating the Channel Rack, controlling its mixer functions, and editing note properties in Graph Edit. Novation lists six named views—Sequencer, Note, Patterns, Channel Rack, Channel Rack Mixer, and Graph Edit—plus up to four Custom Modes. See Novation’s FLpad integration and FAQ.
The controller has 16 dedicated workflow buttons. Their shift functions include Clone Loop, octave up/down, Pattern Length, Channel Rack mutes and pan, tempo, redo, quantise, and Score Log. The product is aimed at hands-on Pattern and Channel Rack work, not at replacing a piano keyboard or providing full control of the Playlist view. Novation points people who want keys and broader FL Studio control toward FLkey.
FLpad vs. FLpad Mini: which fits your setup?
The key functional difference is the pads: the full-size FLpad pads respond to velocity, while the Mini’s smaller pads use fixed velocity. That makes the full-size model the more suitable choice if expressive finger drumming or dynamics in melodic playing matter; the Mini prioritizes a smaller footprint. Novation’s specifications are shown below.
The Tool Desk
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Specification | FLpad | FLpad Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Grid | 8×8; 64 RGB-backlit pads | 8×8; 64 pads |
| Pad size and response | Full-size, velocity-sensitive | Mini, fixed-velocity |
| Workflow views | Six named views; up to four Custom Modes | Same listed core workflow views |
| Dimensions | 240 × 240 × 17.6 mm (9.4 × 9.4 × 0.69 in) | 180 × 180 × 14.2 mm (7.1 × 7.1 × 0.56 in) |
| Weight | 820 g (1.81 lb) | 380 g (0.84 lb) |
| Power and cable | USB bus powered; 1.5 m USB-C-to-A cable included | USB bus powered; 1.5 m USB-C-to-A cable included |
Specifications: Novation FLpad and Novation FLpad Mini. Both connect over USB-C and are bus powered; Novation says a power supply is not included.
Check FL Studio compatibility before buying
Novation’s support article, dated October 1, 2026, specifies desktop FL Studio version 26.1.6 or later for the custom scripts. FL Studio Web and FL Studio Mobile are not supported for this dedicated integration. The controller may still send generic MIDI through Custom Modes, but that is not the same as the FL Studio scripts. See Novation’s FL Studio setup instructions.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How setup and Custom Modes work
Novation expects FL Studio to detect FLpad and configure its control scripts automatically. If it does not, follow the support page’s manual procedure for your operating system: Windows uses MIDI and MIDIIn2 ports, while macOS uses MIDI and DAW ports. In FL Studio’s controller settings, select the matching Novation FLpad MIDI/DAW entries and assign unique, nonzero ports.
Novation Components is used to update firmware and configure the hardware. Its Custom Modes can map grid widgets to keystrokes, faders, note layouts, Program Change messages, and MIDI CC buttons. Components is offered as a standalone app or as a Web MIDI browser app for Chrome, Opera, and Edge; the full guide is Novation’s FLpad Components Guide.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Novation says Custom Modes can send polyphonic aftertouch data, but FL Studio does not support polyphonic aftertouch by default. For deeper integration with another DAW, such as Ableton or Logic, Novation recommends its Launchpad range. FLpad and FLkey can also be used together.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Launch pricing and included software
MusicRadar’s October 1, 2026 launch report listed these prices. They are launch-reported figures, not verified current retailer prices; regional taxes, shipping, stock, and later price changes may affect what a buyer pays.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Model | Launch-reported price |
|---|---|
| FLpad | $219.99 / £179.99 / €168.06 |
| FLpad Mini | $139.99 / £99.99 / €92.43 |
Novation’s product pages describe bundled software including six months of FL Studio Producer Edition and instruments or effects from UVI, GForce, and Klevgrand, as well as Melodics lessons. Named items include UVI Prime 8+, Klevgrand Slammer and LUXE, and GForce synthesizers. Bundle contents and terms can change, so confirm what is included at purchase. Launch coverage: MusicRadar’s October 1, 2026 report.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
