A great entry-level MIDI keyboard controller is the Novation Launchkey 49 MK3. It is also available in 25, 37, 61, and 88-key models. It integrates particularly well with Ableton Live, though it also integrates with other DAWs. It's also worth noting that students enrolled with Berklee Online can get Novation MIDI controllers for 25 percent off. See our Student Deals page for more information about obtaining that discount.

Notable features include:

• 16 RGB backlit velocity-sensitive pads
• 8 knobs
• 9 faders
• 5-pin MIDI out connection (in addition to USB MIDI connection)
• Arpeggiator
• Pre-mapped buttons for Ableton Live features, such as scene launch and capture

The Arturia Keylab 61 mkII is a fantastic option at a mid-tier price point. It has great connectivity options and integrates very well with Arturia's Analog Lab and V Collection software collections, as well as most major DAWs.

Notable features include:

• Aftertouch
• 4 CV outputs (for use with hardware or modular synths)
• 5 expression control inputs
• MIDI DIN In/Out (in addition to USB MIDI connection)
• 16 backlit, velocity sensitive pads
• 9  “endless” rotary encoders
• 9 faders

One of the best high-end MIDI keyboard controllers available is the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2, particularly for users of Native Instruments Komplete. While it comes in 49 and 61 key models also, the 88-key model is the only one that features hammer-weighted keys.

Notable features include:

• Aftertouch
• Hammer-weighted keys
• Seamless integration with both NI Komplete and NI Maschine software
• 2 high-res color screens
• 4-directional push encoder for one-handed sound browsing and project navigation
• MIDI DIN In/Out (in addition to USB MIDI connection)

While keyboard controllers use a piano-style keyboard for note input, there are other types of controllers that simulate other real life instruments. For example, there are: 

• Drum set controllers, such as the Roland V-Drums series. These are often referred to as electronic drum sets, and can be used without a computer as a performance or practice tool. With that said, you can send the MIDI signal from the controller to your computer (or synthesizer) in order to trigger alternate sounds, including non-drum sounds.

• Wind controllers, such as the Akai Professional EWI.

• Guitar controllers, such as the Godin xtSA Multi-Voice Electric Guitar. It's worth noting this, and other MIDI capable guitars, have all the functions of a normal electric guitar, but are also MIDI controllers. Alternatively, any guitar can be converted to a MIDI controller with the use of a divided pickup (a device that can transmit the pitch of each individual string independently of the other strings), such as the Roland GK-3 Pickup.

Pad controllers feature pads that are most often used for playing drum or percussion parts, but can be used for any kind of note entry. They often have similar features to a more robust keyboard controller, such as buttons, knobs, and faders, just without the keys. An example of a pad controller is the Akai Professional MPD226.

DJ controllers simulate some or all of the functions of a traditional two-turntable or two-disc DJ rig. Often these are optimized for a particular software, such as the Traktor Kontrol series with the Traktor Pro software, or the Pioneer DJ series with the Serato DJ Pro software. Therefore, while these types of controllers excel at their intended function, they are less versatile compared to most other MIDI controllers.

Foot controllers—such as the Behringer FCB1010—allow users to transmit MIDI information hands-free, making them very popular among performing musicians, especially guitar and keyboard players. They can perform a variety of functions, including switching effects, launching clips or scenes, controlling a looper, etc. A limitation of foot controllers is that they generally contain only switches or buttons, and don't include knobs or faders.

There are a number of controllers that are designed specifically for use with Ableton Live, such as the Ableton Push series, the Akai Professional APC series, and the Novation Launchpad series. While it's possible to use these controllers with other software, it's not ideal, as much of the default functionality will not be unavailable and setup may be cumbersome. However, if you are using Ableton, any of these options can be a great choice, as they offer both fantastic default functionality and the ability to customize the functions on the controller to suit the user.

A fantastic MIDI foot controller is the Morningstar MC8. While the MC8 has 8 buttons, there are also 3 and 6 button models available. These controllers are popular for controlling both amp simulators as well as pedalboards, though they can be used for a wide variety of applications. Notable features include:

• 8 buttons
• Four 1/4 inch ports that can function as MIDI outputs, aux switch inputs or expression pedal inputs
• 30 banks with 16 switches per bank
• Flexibility with the types of messages you can send from each switch
• Web-based or desktop application for customizing settings
• Ability to trigger multiple messages from the same switch depending on the action (tap, double tap, hold, etc.)
• Ability to trigger pre-programmed keyboard commands from the controller
• LCD display with customizable text

For a less expensive alternative to the Morningstar controller above, ActitioN is worth a look. They are a small company that makes four-, eight-, and 12-button customizable foot controllers. The eight-button model is great balance of functionality and cost. Notable features include:

• USB and MIDI DIN connections
• TRS connection (to connect expression pedal)
• Ability to switch button functionality between CC (control change) and PC (program change) messages
• LED indicators for each button

The Ableton Push 3 is the newest version of the Push series, though all three versions are great options for Ableton users. Push users can perform almost all functions of the software without ever looking at the computer screen, which makes them a popular controller for both producers and performers using Ableton. It's worth noting that the Push 3 comes in both a standalone edition (which doesn't require a computer), as well as the more traditional MIDI controller version. The previous versions of the Push do not have standalone options. Notable features include:

• 64 velocity sensitive, RGB pads
• 11 knobs
• Pads can control notes, session view, step sequencer, or a combination of the step sequencer and notes
• Color Screen (not available on Push 1)
• 2 expression pedal inputs
• Touch slider for expression control

Another great choice for Ableton users is the Akai Professional APC40 mkII. While the APC40 doesn't include functionality for playing notes, it still excels at controlling the session view of Ableton, and really is a great choice, especially when supplemented with a keyboard controller for note entry. Notable features include:

• Control of 8 tracks (and the master track) at one time
• Record Enable, Solo, Mute, Fader Assign, and clip stop buttons for each track
• Volume fader for each track
• 5 clip launch buttons for each track
• 16 assignable knobs
• Crossfader