Novation Launchkey 25 MK4 review

Novation's Launchkey 25 MK4 pairs a compact two-octave range with full-size synth-action keys, an eight-encoder DAW surface, 16 pressure-responsive pads and both USB-C computer control and five-pin DIN MIDI Out. That is a distinct layout from the 25-key Launchkey Mini, not a color or bundle variant. The assessment below is based on the US manufacturer page and its version-3 English guide, not hands-on testing.

Twenty-five notes, but not mini keys

Twenty-five keys span two octaves plus one note. That can be enough for a bass or lead part, a short chord figure, a desk where a larger controller would crowd other gear, or a take that can be recorded in separate octave-shifted passes. It is not a substitute for a longer range when both hands must cover wide voicings or sustain a low register while reaching high notes without shifting. Novation describes this standard Launchkey 25 as a 25-key, full-size synth-action keyboard with velocity sensitivity. The regular-sized key spacing is its central difference from the 25 mini keys on the Launchkey Mini 25 MK4; neither description promises a weighted piano action or a personally comfortable feel.

Octave buttons can shift the controller's register, but a fixed performance map should be checked against the manual and software you intend to control. The reviewed sources do not establish keyboard aftertouch; pad response is not proof that the keys send aftertouch.

Pads, encoders and creative tools

The Launchkey has 16 RGB velocity-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch, eight endless encoders, a monochrome 128-by-64 OLED, pitch-bend and modulation wheels, plus transport and workflow buttons. Pads can play drums, trigger clips or map controls, but they are not a sound source; check whether the target DAW or instrument responds to the pad messages you need.

Scale mode, Chord Map, Fixed Chord, User Chord and the generative arpeggiator are documented as built-in tools. These can help shape ideas from a small keyboard, but they do not increase its physical range or replace the musical choices of the player. The OLED provides feedback while changing modes. Novation describes tailored integration for named DAWs and HUI support for others; a familiar transport button is not a guarantee that every software version exposes the same functions without setup.

A useful USB-to-computer and DIN-to-hardware arrangement

The USB-C port carries data and, according to the guide, computer bus power. The box list names a 1.5-metre USB-C-to-A cable; check the cable or adapter path for a USB-C-only computer. Connector shape alone does not establish host, OS or DAW compatibility.

A separate five-pin DIN MIDI Out sends control data to external instruments, so this model can document a computer link and a wired hardware route at the same time. The DIN connection is materially simpler for a synth with a matching input than the Launchkey Mini 25's 3.5 mm TRS Type-A MIDI jack, which requires a compatible adapter for DIN gear. Neither route carries the external instrument's audio back through this controller. The reviewed product page and guide do not specify an onboard sound engine or audio output; budget for the software or powered hardware that makes sound and for a separate monitoring/interface path.

The manual documents a 6.35 mm sustain input supporting sustain pedals and momentary foot switches. It does not name a pedal in the box contents. The documented power arrangement is computer-connected USB power, so a hardware-only plan should not assume that DIN MIDI supplies power or that a computer-free power mode is supported. Confirm the latest manual if your rig depends on standalone operation.

Desk fit and carrying weight

The version-3 guide lists a body 461 mm wide, 251 mm deep and 79 mm high, or about 18.15 by 9.88 by 3.11 inches, and a weight of 1.82 kg (4.01 pounds). Novation's US page rounds the weight to 1.8 kg, which is consistent at that precision. The 18.15-inch body is wider than the 13.33-inch Mini 25 MK4, but it exchanges that portable footprint for full-size keys and a direct DIN socket. Measure the usable desk or stand area and leave extra room for the USB lead, pedal, DIN connector bend and hand position; a body-width screen is not a complete placement test.

What to compare it against

The closest same-count comparison is Novation's Launchkey Mini 25 MK4: it uses mini keys and a 3.5 mm TRS Type-A MIDI output, while the standard board here has full-size keys and direct DIN. Both offer USB-C, eight encoders and 16 pressure-sensitive pads, so choose by hand spacing and cabling. Arturia's MiniLab 3 adds a compact pad surface; MicroLab reduces the control layout. The full-size Launchkey 37 increases reach, with a wider body.

Who this configuration suits

Shortlist the Launchkey 25 MK4 if a fixed 25-note floor is acceptable but mini keys are not, and if the same arrangement should connect to a USB-C computer, send directly over five-pin MIDI and offer responsive pads for DAW work. Look elsewhere if a part requires broader simultaneous reach, a weighted key mechanism, confirmed key aftertouch, the narrowest possible chassis, or built-in sound and headphone output. Its software bundle and named DAW integrations are a starting point, not a promise of perpetual entitlements; check the current download page, account requirements, software versions, seller package and return terms for the exact MK4 SKU before buying.

Novation US Launchkey 25 product page · Novation downloads and guide index · Launchkey 25 User Guide, version 3.