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You can use a MIDI keyboard in BandLab to play and record a Virtual Instrument, but you do not need a physical keyboard: Web users can use Musical Typing, and the Mobile apps include a virtual piano. For a controller, connect it to your computer or phone, open a Virtual Instrument track, select an instrument, and record your performance.
Use a MIDI keyboard with BandLab on the Web
- Connect the keyboard to your computer with USB. If it has 5-pin MIDI ports rather than USB, connect it through a USB-to-MIDI interface cable or an audio interface with 5-pin ports. The cable or interface carries MIDI to the computer; it is distinct from the keyboard’s audio output. BandLab’s connection guide says most USB devices should work, but it does not guarantee compatibility for every model.
- Open BandLab Studio and create a project or open an existing one. Add a Virtual Instrument track, then choose an instrument in the instrument panel. For Studio’s project and track setup, see BandLab’s getting-started guide.
- Play a few notes. BandLab should usually detect the connected MIDI device. If it does not, allow MIDI-device access in your browser and select the keyboard manually in the instrument track panel.
- When the instrument responds as expected, press Studio’s Record button and play your part. The performance is recorded on the Virtual Instrument track as MIDI notes, which you can edit after recording.
BandLab’s Virtual Instruments guide, dated October 5, 2026, reports a catalog of more than 370 instruments. That is BandLab’s own product count, not an independent measurement. See the Virtual Instruments guide.
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Connect a MIDI keyboard to BandLab on a phone
- Connect the keyboard to the phone with an adapter or OTG cable supported by both devices. Power the keyboard if it needs an external supply, then check that the phone detects it.
- In the BandLab app, open Studio, add a Virtual Instrument track, and choose an instrument.
- Play the keyboard to confirm the instrument responds, then tap Record when you are ready to capture a take.
BandLab’s connection instructions say the Connected MIDI Devices setting is available on Android; do not expect that setting in the iOS app. BandLab’s guide does not provide a model-by-model compatibility list for phones, keyboards, and adapters, so a connection that works with one combination is not a guarantee for another. Check BandLab’s MIDI connection instructions.
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What to check if BandLab does not detect the keyboard
- Web browser permission: Allow the browser to access MIDI devices, then try selecting the keyboard from the instrument track panel.
- Power: If the keyboard needs external power, connect it. Some controllers may not receive enough power through the connection alone.
- Cable or port: Reconnect the cable, try another USB port or cable, and check that a 5-pin keyboard is connected through a suitable MIDI interface.
- Phone adapter: Confirm that the adapter or OTG connection is supported for both the phone and keyboard, and that the phone recognizes the device.
- Separate timing issue from connection: If Android records notes but their timing is off, that is not necessarily a detection failure. BandLab’s beginner guide says its Latency Test can help identify and apply compensation techniques. Read BandLab’s beginner guide.
Assign MIDI knobs and faders on the Web
If your controller has knobs, faders, or buttons, BandLab’s MIDI Mapping feature lets you assign those controls to highlighted parameters in Studio. It is a Web-only feature, not a Mobile-app setting.
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Akai Professional MPK Mini IV 25-Key USB-C MIDI Keyboard Controller, Black | Velocity-Sensitive Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, 360° Knobs, Chord and Scale Mode, for Beat Makers, Music Production
- Next-Gen Music Production and Beat Maker Essential - USB-powered MIDI keyboard controller with 25 mini velocity-sensitive keys, optimized for studio or beat production, piano-style performance, synth leads, sample triggering
- Real-Time Control and Navigation - 8x assignable 360° knobs, a vibrant full-color screen and push/turn encoder for hands-on access to settings, presets, and DAW functions, without reaching for a computer
- Iconic MPC Pads with RGB Feedback - 8 velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC pads deliver an iconic finger-drumming experience, plus dynamic visual feedback to match your performance in studio or on the go
- Studio Instrument Collection Included - A powerful VST/AU and standalone virtual suite packing 1000+ pro-grade drums, keys, synths, bass, FX from AIR, Akai Pro and Moog, plus MPK Mini IV integrated controls
- Pre-Mapped DAW Integration - Get producing in under 15 minutes with Ableton Live Lite 12, Logic Pro, FL Studio and more; comes with an expanded DAW-mapped transport section for uninterrupted workflow
- In BandLab Studio, open the top-left menu and choose View > MIDI Mappings.
- Click a highlighted parameter you want to control.
- Move or press the hardware control to assign it.
BandLab says mappings are saved through browser cookies, so clearing cookies or using another browser may mean setting them up again. See BandLab’s MIDI mapping instructions.
Use BandLab without a physical MIDI keyboard
On the Web, Musical Typing lets you play a Virtual Instrument from your computer keyboard. In the Mobile apps, use the on-screen virtual piano. These are alternatives for entering notes, not MIDI-device connections. BandLab documents MIDI editing on Web, Android, and iOS; its guide notes that the Web editor includes additional tools such as Humanize. BandLab’s beginner guide explains MIDI editing.
Rank #2
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Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus 37-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller | Velocity-Sensitive Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, 64 Step Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O, Software Suite Included, for Beat Makers
- Full Creative Control - A dynamic 37-Key MPK Mini keybed for 3 full octaves of melodic and harmonic performance; Easily connect to your DAW or studio equipment with the USB-powered MIDI Controller
- Advanced Connectivity - Connect to different sound sources with CV/Gate and MIDI I/O; Control modular gear, sound modules, synthesizers, and more to bring new sound sources into your music production
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- Record and Compose Without a Computer - Connect to your production station and use the built-in 64-step sequencer featuring one track for drums and one for melodies or chords, with up to 8 notes each
Choose the right connection for your setup
| Keyboard connection | Host device | What you need | What to verify |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB MIDI | Computer | A suitable USB connection to the computer | Browser MIDI permission and device selection if it is not detected automatically |
| 5-pin MIDI | Computer | A USB-to-MIDI interface cable or an audio interface with 5-pin ports | That the interface connects the keyboard’s MIDI output to the computer |
| MIDI device connected through an adapter or OTG | Phone | An adapter or OTG cable supported by both devices; external power if required | That the phone detects the keyboard; BandLab does not list compatibility for every model and adapter |
A controller is optional, and buying a particular keyboard is not a prerequisite for recording in BandLab. Compatibility depends on the keyboard’s ports and power needs, the host device, and any required interface or adapter.
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Quick Recap
SaleBestseller No. 2
Best Value
Akai Professional LPK25 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller | Velocity-Sensitive Mini Keys, Arpeggiator, Universal DAW Compatiblity, for Music Producers
- Mini Keys, Major Performance - 25-key MIDI controller keyboard with responsive keys to play with feel and dynamics; Enjoy expressive songwriting, composing, jamming, playing melodies, bass lines, and more
- Full Range Experience - Play every note with ease; Use the dedicated octave up and down buttons to transpose the range of your software instruments plus a sustain button for expressive performances
- Feature Packed - Use the built-in arpeggiator and clock for creative control of any of your sound sources like software instruments, synthesizers, or USB-enabled modular gear, all by one USB cable
- Customized Production - With 8 programmable preset slots you can instantly recall your mappings for DAWs, virtual instruments, and more; Create, edit, and manage all your presets from the computer
- Versatile Performance - The USB Studio MIDI controller is perfect for your songwriting, beat-making, and DJ remixes whenever you're inspired; The sleek design fits alongside your studio equipment
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Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus 37-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller, White | Velocity-Sensitive Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, 64 Step Sequencer, MIDI/CV/Gate I/O, Software Suite Included, for Beat Makers
- Full Creative Control - A dynamic 37-Key MPK Mini keybed for 3 full octaves of melodic and harmonic performance; Easily connect to your DAW or studio equipment with the USB-powered MIDI Controller
- Advanced Connectivity - Connect to different sound sources with CV/Gate and MIDI I/O; Control modular gear, sound modules, synthesizers, and more to bring new sound sources into your music production
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- Record and Compose Without a Computer - Connect to your production station and use the built-in 64-step sequencer featuring one track for drums and one for melodies or chords, with up to 8 notes each
Rank #3
Sale
Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 25-Key USB MIDI Keyboard Controller | Velocity-Sensitive Mini Keys, 8 MPC Pads, 8 Knobs, Software Suite Included, for Beat Makers, Music Producers and Home Studios
- Music Production and Beat Maker Essential -USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
- Total Control of your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat and Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual synthesizer / DAW controls
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