Checked September 2026
Akai Professional
Akai MPC Live III review
MIDI controllers
A standalone MPC with MPCe 3D-sensing pads, 7-inch multi-touch display, built-in speakers and rechargeable battery. Best for producers who want portable standalone production and live performance. Price not published on the developer's site.
Key features
- 16 MPCe pads with 3D sensing
- 7-inch multi-touch display with touch strip and four encoders
- Rechargeable battery and built-in speakers
- 24-channel USB-C audio and 32 channels of MIDI
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Controller mode for Ableton Live over USB-C
Pros
- Expressive MPCe pads
- Works fully standalone
Cons
- About 4 hours of battery life
Akai MPC Live III alternatives
Compact 25-key USB-C MIDI controller with pitch/mod wheels, 8 pads, and 5-pin DIN MIDI output.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported+ iOSA 25-key universal MIDI controller with pads, faders, encoders, and a bundled software suite.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported- $139.99once
Novation
Novation Launchkey Mini 25 MK4
A 25 mini-key DAW controller with polyphonic-aftertouch pads, Scale/Chord modes, and an arpeggiator.
VST3not supportedAUnot supportedAAXnot supportedCLAPnot supportedWINsupportedMACsupportedLNXnot supported
Sources: www.akaipro.com