Take Your Music Making Mobile With the MX Keys Mini

The MX Keys mini key fob (more info) will allow users to compose music on the go. This tenkeyless keyboard was designed in response to requests for smaller versions of the renowned MX Keys.

It comes with three functions that help you work remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic: a dictation button, Mute key, and an Emoji keyboard.

Size

There are a variety of different sizes of keys on synths and keyboards. There are "mini" and "slim" key sizes and also full-size keys. Each of these features a distinct shape and feel, but what's important is the total 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 lightweight and is a great tool for practicing. The MicroKorg XL also has smaller Arrows, but has more space to move right and enter buttons. It all depends on what you want from your keyboard and the amount of portability that is important.

Sound

Full-size keys. "Slim" keys. "mini key replacement" keys. They all have distinct meanings, and this could affect how a keyboard feels. To help you compare the different sizes of keyboards, we've created this handy key size comparison chart.

The iRig Keys Mini is our top pick in this category. It's a great option for musicians on the go or anyone looking to practice - at home, at the office, or anywhere else you want to work. The keyboard is light and portable, with Bluetooth wireless technology that allows you to connect to your mobile device. It comes with a variety of accessories including an sustain pedal that can be used to add an expression.

The model comes with 500 onboard sounds of pro-quality and a loop mixing feature. You can use it to make your own music or as controller software for other DAWs, or hardware synthesizers. The keyboard is designed with easy functions for novice users.

It also comes with it with a USB keyboard receiver that connects to your laptop or computer, and allows you to connect any keyboard you want to use to control your DAW with no latency. It includes a variety 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 that packs a lot of features. It comes with dual keys that work for Mac and Windows which means that if you're switching between laptops at home and at work (a frequent practice during the coronavirus pandemic) you don't have to worry about accidentally hitting the wrong key and adding gibberish to your open document.

The keyboard comes with a variety of useful features, including the system mute key that is compatible with all of your software and conference software. It also has a separate dictation button and an emoji keyboard for hands-free typing.

The layout of the MX Keys Mini is still good, despite the fact that it has lost a number of keys to accommodate its 65%-sized. The cursor jets have been squeezed together to form the shape of a laptop double stack and the function row has been smaller to allow for the Delete button. The only downsides are the lack of a Touch ID fingerprint scanner and the Back button, which activates the backlight, which can be distracting when typing in the 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 in your backpack or gigbag. It should include some useful features that allow you to record music ideas while on the move.

If your mini-keyboard is exposed to water, you must remove the battery from the device immediately and wash it using a paper towel. After drying it completely, replace the battery. If the key fob isn't able to function after this, it may have been reset and require an original replacement key to reset the device.

iRig Keys Mini, which is a 25-key MIDI Controller, is designed to go wherever your mobile lifestyle takes. It's small enough to slip into bags for gigs or backpacks, but it's loaded with powerful software to help you transform your mobile ideas into full-blown songs.

The keyboard is available in graphite, rose, or pale gray, and has white LED-backlit buttons. Logitech has created the MX Keys Mini with artists and busy professionals in mind well, and offers several ways to connect devices for seamless multi-device work. For example, you can pair it with tablets, laptops or desktop PC to record notes, and then switch to a different device like your smartphone to compose or editing, as well as posting to social media.