If you’re trying to decide the kind of keys you need, synthesizer vs. keyboard can be a tricky debate, especially if you’re new to music gear. Add MIDI controllers into the mix and you have three very similar-looking pieces of kit… all serving different purposes.
They have keys, buttons, and sometimes a whole load of extra controls. Each one is designed for a different purpose. Some make their own sounds, some just control other gear, and some do a bit of both. If you’re trying to decide which one suits your needs, it helps to have a really good, deep understanding of these pieces of gear and how they’ll integrate into your setup.
Maybe you want an instrument that works on its own, with built-in sounds and speakers. Or perhaps you’re after something to control virtual instruments on your computer. Whatever the case, understanding the basics will make choosing much easier.
In this guide, we’ll break down how synthesizers, keyboards, and MIDI controllers work and the kinds of studios and live performances they’re suited to – all in a straightforward way. We’ll also suggest some of our favourite picks for each category. By the end of this guide, you will know the differences between each and be confident in choosing the gear you need for your own needs.
In a hurry?
| Equipment | Description | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Synthesizer | A synthesizer generates and manipulates sound using oscillators, filters, and effects. It’s ideal for producers, sound designers, and electronic musicians who want to create custom tones and experiment with sound design. Commonly used in electronic, ambient and experimental music. | Oberheim TEO-5 |
| Keyboard | A keyboard comes with built-in sounds and is designed for easy, plug-and-play performance. Great for beginners, gigging musicians, and those who need an all-in-one instrument for playing various styles, including pop, rock, jazz and classical music. | K1 61-Note Keyboard |
| MIDI Controller | A MIDI controller doesn’t produce sound on its own but sends MIDI data to software or hardware synthesizers. Ideal for producers and musicians working with DAWs, virtual instruments, and digital music production, offering hands-on control over software sounds. | Arturia Keylab MK3 88 |
Type of synthesizers
Synthesizers come in a few different types, each with its own way of generating sound. Knowing the basics of synthesis can help you pick the right one for your music.
Analog synthesizers create sound using electrical circuits. They’re known for their warm, rich tones and hands-on controls. Many classic synth sounds in rock, pop, and electronic music come from analog models. They’re great for musicians who enjoy tweaking sounds in real-time.
Our top pick for analog synths is the Oberheim TEO-5, which brings Tom Oberheim’s classic sound and filtering into the modern era. Equipped with the iconic SEM filter and analog VCO/VCFs, the TEO-5 is a true analog powerhouse.
Digital synthesizers generate sound using digital processing. They can produce a wider range of tones, from realistic instrument sounds to completely new textures, and often have built-in effects and more complex features, making them flexible for different styles.
The Arturia MINIFREAK is our pick for a top digital synth, with two digital sound engines and analog filtering for a truly hybrid experience. The powerful digital effects engine and advanced modulation matrix make it perfect for sound design and music production.
Virtual synthesizers faithfully recreate the tone and character of their hardware counterparts at a fraction of the price, combining digital processing with an analog-style workflow. They recreate the warmth of analog with the added benefits of modern design and extra features.
There is a whole world of virtual instruments (VSTs) out there, ranging from recreations of classic analog gear to cutting-edge digital synthesis. Our top picks showcasing the two ends of the spectrum are Arturia Pigments 6 and the Rhodes V8 plugins.
Pigments 6 utilises the Modal engine and provides three new filters and four new modulators for unparalleled sound design capabilities, while the Rhodes V8 is a faithful recreation of the official Rhodes electric piano – providing the true sound of the V8 model with 72 factory presets and advanced tonal control.
Type of keyboards
Portable keyboards are lightweight and easy to use, making them a great choice for beginners or casual players. They come with a range of sounds, rhythms, and sometimes learning features to help with practice. Many also have built-in speakers, so you can play without extra equipment.
The Casio CT S300 is a compact and portable keyboard that be carried via the built-in handle. It features 400 tones and 60 onboard songs to explore.
The K1 61-Note Keyboard is also a bargain portable keyboard, offering 300 sounds and rhythms and 80 songs to play along to, as well as drum pads for laying down your own beat.
Arranger keyboards are perfect for solo performers. They boast auto-accompaniment features that add backing tracks based on the chords you play. This makes them ideal for songwriting, live performances, or anyone who wants a full-band sound without extra musicians.
If you’re looking for an affordable arranger keyboard, the Roland E-X50 is the perfect choice. Equipped with 700 instrument sounds, Bluetooth audio connectivity and onboard stereo speakers, the E-X50 is a great all-round keyboard.
Workstation keyboards are built for serious music production and they’re used both in studios and for live performance setups. These types of keyboards offer advanced sequencing, recording, and editing tools, allowing you to create complete tracks without needing a computer.
Perfect for those who like an all-in-one workstation experience, the Roland Fantom-08 is the ultimate choice. At its core is the powerful ZEN-core sound engine accompanied by the 88-note hammer-action keybed, iconic TR-REC sequencer, and a colour touchscreen. It has everything you could possibly need to turn your ideas into sound.
Types of MIDI controllers
MIDI controllers don’t produce sound on their own; they send data to other devices, like software instruments or hardware synths. Unlike synths and keyboards, with a MIDI controller, you’ll need other pieces of equipment in your studio already, namely a computer and a DAW. To find out more about how this kind of music production works, check out our guide to MIDI.
Pad controllers are great for finger drumming and triggering samples. They have velocity-sensitive pads that let you control drum beats, loops, and effects with expressive dynamics. Many also include extra controls like faders and knobs for added flexibility.
A great starting point if you’re looking at pad controllers is the SubZero ControlPad 64. With an affordable price point, 64 touch-sensitive pads, and transport control, it has everything you need to translate your ideas.
Keyboard controllers look like traditional keyboards but don’t have built-in sounds. Like other MIDI controllers, they’re designed to send data to virtual instruments on a computer or hardware synths – but in this case, they give you the playability of a piano. They range from compact models with a few keys to full-sized versions with weighted keys for a more piano-like feel.
Arturia’s Keylab series sets the standard for MIDI keyboards, with a comprehensive feature set including pads, faders, encoders, and a high-resolution screen.
The Keylab MK3 49 Key is the perfect introduction to MIDI keyboards, whereas the newly released Keylab MK3 88 is slightly more advanced, retaining all the features of older Keylab MIDI keyboards and adding an 88-note hammer-action keybed.
Wind controllers are designed for wind and brass players, so as such, they use breath and finger control to send MIDI data. We recommend the Roland AE-01. It has a very nice, intuitive design that makes it easy to play, there are six sounds to choose from, and it offers MIDI control via Bluetooth.
Synthesizer vs. keyboard vs. MIDI controller
Functionality
Synthesizers, keyboards, and MIDI controllers may look similar, but they each serve a different purpose and are suited to different applications.
A synthesizer is designed for creating and shaping sounds. It generates these sounds electronically and allows you to tweak waveforms, filters, and effects to craft unique sounds. You’ll hear synths in all sorts of music, from electronic genres to film scoring and experimental sound design.
Synthesizers also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, such as keyboard synths and desktop modules. Some synths, like the Behringer Model 15 (a semi-modular desktop synth) and the Polyend Synth (a multi-engine polyphonic synthesizer) don’t even have keys.
A keyboard is a self-contained instrument with built-in sounds, often mimicking pianos, strings, and other instruments. They’re designed for playing music straight away, making them ideal for beginners, performers, and those who need an all-in-one solution.
From portable keyboards such as the Yamaha PSR E383 to feature-heavy arranger keyboards such as the Korg Pa5X, there is a style of keyboard to suit every need.
Finally, the purpose of a MIDI controller isn’t actually to produce sound, rather its functionality lies in how it interacts and ties together other gear in your setup. It sends data to a computer, synthesizer, or other sound module, which then makes the sound you’ve instructed it to make. MIDI controllers are mainly used in music production, allowing musicians to control virtual instruments and software synths.
As mentioned above, some MIDI controllers have keys, while others use pads, knobs, or sliders for triggering sounds and effects. If you’re looking for an all-in-one MIDI controller, the Akai Professional MPK Mini Plus is a top pick, combining a mini keyboard with iconic MPC pads, rotary knobs, and transport controls.
Sound production
Keyboards, synths, and MIDI controllers might look similar, but they handle sound in completely different ways. A keyboard comes with built-in sounds, often sampled from real instruments. Press a key, and it plays back a pre-recorded piano, string, or drum sound. Some models offer high-quality samples with realistic expression, while others focus on convenience with preset rhythms and backing tracks.
Synths, on the other hand, don’t rely on samples. Instead, they generate sound electronically using oscillators, which create raw waveforms. These waveforms can be shaped with filters, envelopes, and effects to produce anything from deep basses to soaring leads.
Some synths recreate the warmth of old-school analog circuits, while others use digital processing for a wider range of tones. Unlike keyboards, synths let you build completely new sounds rather than just playing back existing ones.
MIDI controllers don’t produce any sound on their own. Instead, they act as a bridge between the player and external devices, like software instruments or hardware synths. Pressing a key or hitting a pad sends a signal telling another device what note to play. This makes them popular for music production, offering hands-on control over virtual instruments without taking up extra space or adding built-in speakers.
Controls
The way you interact with a keyboard, synth, or MIDI controller depends on its controls.
Keyboards are fairly straightforward to get to grips with, usually featuring volume and tone controls alongside buttons for selecting different instrument sounds and rhythms. Some models include extra features like pitch bend wheels and modulation knobs for slight sound adjustments.
Synths give you much more comprehensive control, offering knobs, sliders, and buttons for shaping sound in real-time. Filters, oscillators, and envelopes can all be adjusted on the fly, making synths a great choice for those who like to experiment.
Some also come with built-in sequencers and arpeggiators, helping create rhythmic patterns and melodies automatically.
Digital and analog synths differ in controls depending on their parameters. Digital synths like the Korg microKORG feature an analog modelling engine with vintage-style controls, including a rotary knob for toggling through different programs.
Conventional digital synths tend to have a range of features that analog synths may not have, such as touchscreen displays, advanced expression control, wavetables, and more. However, analog synths have the edge over their digital counterparts when it comes to hands-on control, with rotary knobs and faders there to sculpt your sound. The Moog Grandmother is a semi-modular analog synth with patch points and classic-style rotary controls as well as a hardware spring reverb tank.
The level of control you get with a MIDI controller depends on the type of MIDI controller you have. Generally, though, the focus is on flexibility, with keys, pads, faders, and rotary knobs that send data to connected software or hardware. Many models are customisable, letting you map controls to your preferred setup.
Sound manipulation
When it comes to shaping and tweaking sound, synths are the clear winner. Instead of playing back pre-recorded samples like a keyboard, they generate sound from scratch and enable you to adjust waveforms, filters, and modulation settings.
This means you can create anything from deep, evolving pads to sharp, punchy basslines. Many synths also include built-in effects like reverb, delay, and distortion for extra creative possibilities.
Keyboards, on the other hand, are quite limited by comparison. Instead, they’re mainly designed for melody and harmony, offering the kind of rich textures that synths don’t tend to have.
Sound manipulation-wise, most keyboards come with preset sounds that can be slightly adjusted using basic controls like reverb, chorus, or EQ. Some higher-end models allow deeper editing, but they aren’t designed for full sound creation like a synth.
MIDI controllers don’t manipulate sound directly but give hands-on control over external software or hardware. Mapped to virtual instruments, they can adjust filters, trigger effects, or tweak parameters, offering flexibility without built-in sound generation.
Size
Size and portability can vary quite a bit between synths, keyboards, and MIDI controllers. Keyboards tend to be larger, especially if they have full-sized, weighted keys. Many models come with built-in speakers, adding extra bulk, though smaller, compact versions are available for easy transport.
Synths range from compact desktop modules to full-sized workstations. Some are small enough to fit in a backpack, while others take up serious space in a studio or stage setup.
MIDI controllers come in the widest variety, from tiny 25-key models to larger units with full keybeds, drum pads, and faders. Since they don’t generate sound, they’re often lightweight and portable.
Integration
How easily a synth, keyboard, or MIDI controller fits into a setup depends on its connectivity. Keyboards are the simplest to use; just plug them in, and you’re ready to play. Many have built-in speakers, so there’s no need for extra equipment.
Synths often require external amplification or recording gear. Many connect via MIDI, USB, or CV/gate, allowing them to work with other synths, computers, or modular setups. Some also double as MIDI controllers.
MIDI controllers are built for integration, sending signals to software instruments or hardware synths. They rely on external sound sources but offer hands-on control over music production setups.
Which one is right for me?
Choosing between a synth, keyboard, or MIDI controller depends on how you want to make music and what your needs are.
If you want an instrument with built-in sounds that you can play straight away, a keyboard is the best choice. It comes with preset sounds and built-in speakers, making it easy to use without extra gear.
For experimenting with sound and creating unique tones, a synth is ideal. It lets you shape and tweak sounds using oscillators, filters, and effects, perfect for electronic music and creative sound design.
If you mainly produce on your computer and need a more efficient way of controlling your software instruments, you’d benefit from a MIDI controller as this will give you hands-on control over VSTs.
Live performance-wise, there are a few options you could choose. In fact, all three gear types would work fine. However, if you want something that can handle multiple sounds and backing tracks, we’d recommend a workstation keyboard or a performance-focused synth.
Whatever the purpose of the equipment, if you want something lightweight and portable, you’ll find a MIDI controller, synth, or portable keyboard to suit. The same goes for studio mainstays; there are plenty of larger, full-range gear that make for great permanent pieces of equipment.
FAQs
Is a synthesizer better than a keyboard?
A synthesizer is better than a keyboard for sound design and customisation. Synthesizers generate and manipulate sound using oscillators, filters, and effects, offering more creative control. Keyboards, often with preset sounds, are ideal for straightforward playing. The best choice depends on your needs.
Can you use a synthesizer as a keyboard?
A synthesizer can be used as a keyboard, but with limitations. Many synthesizers have built-in keys and can play melodies like a keyboard. However, they focus on sound creation rather than realistic instrument emulation. If you need versatility and preset sounds, a traditional keyboard may be a better fit.
What is the difference between a keyboard and a synthesizer?
The difference between a keyboard and a synthesizer lies in sound generation. Keyboards typically have preloaded sounds, while synthesizers create sounds from scratch using waveforms and modulation. Synthesizers offer deeper sound design, whereas keyboards are easier to use and have realistic instrument tones.
Final thoughts
When it comes to synthesizer vs. keyboard vs. MIDI controller, the right choice comes down to how you make music, the amount of control and number of sound-shaping options you need, and, really, what exactly you’ll be using it for.
If you’re into sound design and love sculpting unique tones, a synthesizer gives you full creative control. On the other hand, if you prefer an easy-to-use instrument with a variety of built-in sounds, a keyboard is the better option. MIDI controllers, however, are more “functional” in the sense that they bridge the gap between other pieces of gear in your studio, letting you manipulate the sound of various instruments from one place.
If you’re looking to find out more about some of the terms used in this article, like MIDI, audio interfaces, and music production, check out the other articles below.
What is MIDI? Everything You Need to Know About This Vital Tool
Hip-Hop Production – Our Tips for Making Hip-Hop Beats
The 11 Best Synthesizers for Enthusiasts and Professionals
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