NI's smallest keyboard controller with 32 synth-action keys and deep NKS/Komplete integration.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
Checked September 2026
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 vs Akai Professional MPD218 (2026)
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 is best for portable nks-mapped control of komplete and nks plugins; Akai Professional MPD218 is best for beatmaking and drum programming on a budget. Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 starts at $139 and Akai Professional MPD218 at an unpublished price.
A MIDI-over-USB pad controller with 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive MPC pads and 6 assignable knobs.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported+ iOS
| Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 | Akai Professional MPD218 | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | portable nks-mapped control of komplete and nks plugins | beatmaking and drum programming on a budget |
| Starting price | $139 | Not public |
| Free version | No | No |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Formats | USB-MIDI | USB-MIDI |
| OS | Windows, macOS | Windows, macOS, iOS |
| Key features | 32 synth-action mini keys, OLED display for browsing and feedback, Smart Play (scales, chords, arpeggios), Touch strips for pitch/mod, 8 touch-sensitive control knobs | 16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit pads (3 banks), 6 assignable 360-degree knobs (3 banks), 6 control buttons, Class-compliant, driverless USB-MIDI, iOS compatible via Apple Camera Connection Kit |
| Developer | Native Instruments | Akai Professional |
Questions people ask
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32 starts at $139; Akai Professional MPD218 starts at a price not published online.
32 synth-action mini keys, OLED display for browsing and feedback, Smart Play (scales, chords, arpeggios), Touch strips for pitch/mod, 8 touch-sensitive control knobs.
16 velocity- and pressure-sensitive backlit pads (3 banks), 6 assignable 360-degree knobs (3 banks), 6 control buttons, Class-compliant, driverless USB-MIDI, iOS compatible via Apple Camera Connection Kit.