Launchkey.

Both Launchkey MK3 and Launchkey MK4 are MIDI keyboard controllers that integrate deeply with major DAWs. In general, Launchkey MK4 features tighter integration with supported DAWs including, for the first time, Ardour.

The MK4 controllers feature improved build quality across the range and more premium, semi-weighted waterfall-style keys on 49- and 61-key models. Keybeds on these models can be split or layered for playing two instruments at once.

The pads on all Launchkey MK4 models use Novation’s patented FSR (Force Sensitive Resistor) technology for better responsiveness and consistency, and also support polyphonic aftertouch when used with supported DAWs and plugins.

All Launchkey MK4 models feature a new OLED screen that displays key parameters, chord names, and more, along with an expanded set of built-in creative tools — including many more scale types and a more powerful arpeggiator. Paired with eight endless encoders that always pick up where you left off, it offers our most seamless workflow yet across all supported DAWs. We’ve also upgraded the buttons on all models to add a more satisfying, tactile click.

Launchkey MK4 connects to your computer using USB-C, while Launchkey MK3 uses the older USB-B connector.

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Launchkey MK4 and FLkey 2 are both current-generation MIDI keyboard controllers from Novation. They are based on the same hardware platform and share many of the same features, but there are some fundamental differences to be aware of.

While Launchkey MK4 does work with FL Studio, FLkey 2 is the only dedicated keyboard controller for FL Studio. We therefore recommend that you purchase FLkey 2 if you’re working predominantly in FL Studio. It features tighter integration thanks for custom scripting, and its control panel is screen-printed to highlight specific FL Studio functions. FLkey 2 also includes a six-month subscription to FL Studio Producer Edition.

If you regularly switch between FL Studio and another DAW, Launchkey MK4 is likely the best choice.

Note: It is not possible to use the FLkey 2 script with a Launchkey MK4 controller due to key design and firmware differences.

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Chord Map allows you to quickly build and play interesting chords using the pads and encoders. To access it on a full-size Launchkey, simply press the Chord Map button. On Launchkey Mini, hold Shift and press pad 12 (labelled Chord Map).

From here, the leftmost eight pads will be highlighted in blue. These are Chord pads. The rightmost six pads, highlighted in orange, are Performance pads.

Press one of the Chord pads to trigger a pre-defined chord in the currently selected scale. The chord you’re currently playing will be shown on the OLED display. You can transpose up and down between octaves using the Up and Down buttons next to the pads.

Hold down one of the orange pads while playing to add performance effects (only one can be used at a time). Available effects include arpeggiation, inversions, and splits — which allow you to play bass notes on the first press of a pad and the rest of the chord with a second press.

For further creative options, encoders 1-4 control Adventure, Explore, Spread, and Roll, respectively. Adventure (Encoder 1) controls how harmonically complex the chords are, Explore (Encoder 2) provides different chord sets at each Adventure level, Spread (Encoder 3) spreads out the notes in the chord over multiple octaves, and Roll (Encoder 4) strums the notes of your chosen chord one by one.

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Deciding on the best MIDI keyboard controller is highly personal. You need to consider your intended use, desired features, available space, and budget among other factors.

If you’re working predominantly in Ableton Live, Logic, or any of the other supported DAWs, we strongly recommend Launchkey MK4 as the best choice for most people. It is available in seven different sizes across two unique colourways.

If your main DAW is FL Studio, we recommend you consider FLkey 2 instead. While Launchkey MK4 does support FL Studio, FLkey’s depth of integration with this specific DAW is unmatched.

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Both keyboard splits and layering are possible with Launchkey MK4 49 and 61. Use Shift and Fader Buttons 6-9 allow you to select Zones, set up Part A and Part B, and then Split the keyboard to play different sounds with different key ranges, or Layer it to play both sounds at once.

Using Zones and Splits in your DAW may require some setup. Visit the support article below to watch a video demonstration and download a range of project templates.

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