Take Your Music Making Mobile With the MX Keys Mini

If you're looking to bring your music-making mobile, the MX Keys Mini is worth taking a look. The tenkeyless keyboard was created in response to requests for smaller versions of the renowned MX Keys.

It comes with three functions that facilitate remote work during the Covid-19 Pandemic - a dictation button, muted key, and an emoji keyboard.

Size

Keyboards and synthesizers come with a variety of key sizes. There are "mini" and "slim" keys and also full-size keys. Each features a distinct shape and feel, but what's important is the entire package - not just the number of keys and if they're mini or full size.

Casio SA51, for example, has 100 sounds and 50 rhythms, however it's smaller than the other models. It's also easy to carry and is a great practice instrument. The MicroKorg XL also has smaller Arrows, but has more space as well as right-shift and enter buttons. So it is dependent on what you need from your keyboard and how much portability is essential.

Sound

Full-size keys. "Slim" keys. "mini key replacement" keys. They all have a meaning that is slightly different, and this could have a major impact on how comfortable and enjoyable the keyboard is. This handy key size chart to help you evaluate.

In this category, our favorite is the iRig Keys Mini. It's a great choice for musicians who are on traveling, or who would like to work at home, in the office or wherever you'd like. The keyboard is portable and light and utilizes Bluetooth wireless technology to connect to your mobile device. It is also equipped with a range of accessories that include the sustain pedal to give you more expression.

This model has 500 onboard sounds that are professional quality and a loop mixing function. You can use it to make your own music or use it as an instrument controller software for other hardware synthesizers or DAWs. The keyboard is designed with simple functions for novice users.

It comes with it's own USB keyboard that connects to your computer, laptop or tablet. It allows you to connect any keyboard compatible to the receiver to control your DAW directly. It comes with a selection of essential music software, including AAS Session Bundle and Softube Time & Tone. Also included is the exclusive Spitfire audio LABS - Expression Strings instrument.

Functions

The MX Keys Mini is a compact keyboard packed with many features. It features dual keys for Mac and Windows so you don't need to be concerned if you switch between laptops while at work or at home (a common practice when the coronavirus outbreak was in full force).

This keyboard has many other useful features, such as the system mute key that is compatible with all of your apps and conference software. It also comes with an emoji key as well as an edictation key that is specifically designed to allow hands-free dictation.

The layout of the MX Keys Mini is still impressive, despite that it has lost a number of keys to accommodate its 65%-sized. The cursor jets are squished together to form an asymmetrical laptop-style double stack, and the function row has been narrowed to accommodate the delete button. The only real drawbacks are the absence of a Touch ID fingerprint scanner and a Back button that activates the backlight, which can be distracting while typing in dark.

Portability

If you're searching for a mini keyboard that you can compose music on and carry around, you should pick one that's small enough to fit comfortably into your backpack or gigbag. It should come with useful features that will assist you in capturing musical ideas on the move.

If your mini-keyboard has been exposed to water, you must remove the battery immediately and clean it with a tissue. Then, dry it completely before putting the battery back in its place. If the key fob still does not work, it may have been changed in its programming. You will require an original replacement mini key fob key in order to reset the device.

iRig Keys Mini, which is a 25-key MIDI Controller, is designed to go wherever your mobile life takes you. It's small enough for you to slip into a backpack or gig bag but packed with powerful software to help you transform your mobile ideas into full-blown songs.

The keyboard is available in graphite, rose and gray with a pale shade, and comes with white LED-backlit buttons. Logitech has created the MX Keys Mini with artists and busy professionals in mind as well, and it offers several ways to connect devices to work seamlessly across multiple devices. It can be linked to tablet, laptop or desktop PC to take notes, and then switch to smartphones to edit, compose and post to social media.