MPK small does not require any software drivers or an external power adapter to operate, allowing maximum mobility. It has plug-and-play functionality, USB-MIDI, and can be powered by a single USB connection to your Mac or PC.
In addition, you may save hardware/software presets in four memory banks for a quick and easy PC and MPK mini setup.
On the contrary, iRig Keys is the ideal compact keyboard and producer’s partner. Connect it to your smartphone or desktop and begin playing whenever and wherever inspiration strikes.
The iRig Keys also has a very long battery life. It could be powered by the device when connected to an iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, and it can also be fueled by the available USB connection for longer play sessions.
Akai MPK Mini
MPK mini comes with everything you need to record and improve your musical ideas rapidly. A sustained pedal input is built in for expressive playing and recording; dedicated Octave Up and Down keys extend the keyboard’s melodic range.
With an inbuilt arpeggiator that can be adjusted for resolution, range, and modes, it’s simple to produce complex melodic lines with no effort. MPC Note Repeat and Full Level also provide customers access to accurate Akai Professional MPC workstation technology.
Pros of Akai MPK Mini
- The design is small, portable, and light.
- Eight drum pads are included.
- Eight assignable knobs are included.
- Other MIDI buttons are included in the 25-key configuration.
- Reasonably-priced.
Cons of Akai MPK Mini
- MPC software is quite tough to use for novices.
- If you have large fingers, keys might be relatively tiny.
- If you already have software, your MPK Mini will not be used.
- Velocity isn’t something that can be changed.
iRig Keys
The iRig Keys global MIDI controller keyboard for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Android, and Mac/PC is the world’s first ultra-slim and highly compact MIDI controller keyboard. An included Lightning connection directly connects to your iOS smartphone. The supplied OTG to Micro-USB cable connects to your Android device and contains USB cable links to your Mac/PC.
Pros of iRig Keys
- A keyboard and audio interface in one.
- Input with phantom power and a high impedance.
- Up to 99 user pages can be configured.
- iPad cradle made to order.
Cons of iRig Keys
- The only USB supports MIDI.
- Shorter proprietary cables.
- Only Logic has a dedicated control system.
- There is no software editor.
Akai MPK Mini vs. iRig Keys
| Akai MPK Mini | iRig Keys | |
| INPUTS | 1/4″ (6.35mm) TS | • 2.5 mm TRS MIDI Input 1 • 1 x 1/4″ Sustain Input |
| OUTPUTS | 3.5 Mini-Audio Audio Jack | • 2.5 mm TRS MIDI Output 1 x 1/8″ • 3.5 mm TRS Headphone |
| CONTROLS | USB MIDI | Universal MIDI |
| CONNECTION TYPE | USB | • Micro-USB • USB Cable |
| MONITORING | ||
| COMPATIBILITY | • OS X 10.8.5 or later • Windows 7 SP1 or later | • iOS (iPhone/iPod/iPad) • Android • Mac • PC |
| SIZE | 12.5″ x 7.13″ x 1.75″ (WxDxH) | 503mm/19.8″ x 120mm/4.72″ x 40mm/1.57″ (W x L x H) |
| WEIGHT | 1.65 lbs | 660g/23.28oz |
| INCLUDED APPS | • MPK Mini Play • Akai Pro VIP3.0 | • SampleTank FREE iOS and iGrand Piano FREE apps (download from the App store) • iGrand Piano FREE and iLectric Piano FREE for Android (download from Google Play Store) • Mac/PC software: SampleTank 4 SE (download from IK User Area) |
| WARRANTY | 1YR WARRANTY Akai Professional MPK Mini | One (1) Year Warranty PARTS, Ninety (90) Days Warranty LABOR |
Comparison
Plug-and-play simplicity, USB-MIDI, and a single USB connection to your Mac or PC power the Akai MPK Mini. For a quick and easy PC and MPK mini setup, you may save hardware/software settings in four memory banks. The iRig Keys worldwide MIDI controller keyboard is the world’s first ultra-slim and very compact MIDI controller keyboard for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Android, and Mac/PC. An integrated Lightning connector connects straight to your iPhone or iPad.
