Novation

Novation LAUNCHKEY-MINI-MK2 Keyboard Controller Bundle

3.2 (2 reviews)

A compact 25-key MIDI controller with velocity-sensitive pads and knobs, bundled with software to start producing music immediately.

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Overview

The Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 packs a surprising amount of control into a footprint barely wider than a laptop keyboard. Its 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys handle melodic input, while 16 multi-color, velocity-sensitive drum pads serve double duty for finger drumming and launching clips in Ableton Live. Eight rotary knobs give you tactile control over synth parameters, effects, or mixer channels, and dedicated buttons for octave shift, track selection, and navigation let you move through your session without touching the mouse. The InControl mode provides automatic mapping to Ableton Live's mixer, device parameters, and session view, making setup essentially instant.

This bundle adds practical extras to the core controller: a USB hub addresses the limited port count on many laptops, and the included software package — Ableton Live Lite, Novation Bass Station and V-Station virtual synths, and Loopmasters sample packs — means a new producer can go from unboxing to laying down tracks without any additional purchases. At just 325mm wide and USB bus powered, the Launchkey Mini MK2 fits in a backpack and works anywhere a laptop does, making it a genuinely portable production tool rather than a desk-bound accessory.

Specifications

Keys
25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys
Drum Pads
16 multi-color backlit, velocity-sensitive
Knobs
8
Buttons
2 Octave, 2 Track, 2 Navigation, InControl, 2 multi-color round buttons
Connectivity
Micro USB
Power
USB bus powered
Included Software
Ableton Live Lite 9, Novation Bass Station, V-Station, Loopmasters samples
Dimensions
325mm x 175mm x 43mm
Bundle Extras
USB hub, Austin Bazaar polishing cloth

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Extremely compact at 325mm wide, making it highly portable for mobile music production
  • 16 velocity-sensitive, multi-color backlit drum pads provide expressive beat-making and clip launching
  • Bundle includes Ableton Live Lite, Bass Station, V-Station, and samples so you can produce immediately
  • USB bus powered with no adapter needed, simplifying setup and travel
  • Eight assignable knobs offer hands-on control over synth parameters and mixer levels

👎 Cons

  • Mini-sized keys are less comfortable for players accustomed to full-size keyboard action
  • 25-key range limits playability for parts that span more than two octaves without using octave shift buttons
  • Micro USB connector is less durable and less common than USB-C on modern devices
  • No pitch bend or modulation wheels, which limits real-time expressive control during performance
  • No standalone operation — requires a connected computer to function

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, while it has deep integration with Ableton Live via InControl mode, it functions as a standard USB MIDI controller compatible with virtually any DAW software.
No, the Launchkey Mini MK2 is USB bus powered, so it draws all the power it needs from your computer's USB port — no power adapter required.
The bundle includes the Novation Launchkey Mini MK2 controller, a USB hub, an Austin Bazaar polishing cloth, and software including Ableton Live Lite 9, Novation Bass Station, V-Station, and Loopmasters samples.
Yes, all 16 drum pads are velocity-sensitive and multi-color backlit, allowing for expressive finger drumming and visual feedback of pad states.
It uses a Micro USB socket for connecting to your computer.