Novation Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 review

The US Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is a compact, computer-oriented controller with a 37-note synth-action mini keybed, USB-C, 16 expressive pads and an external MIDI jack. It is a meaningful step up from a 25-key mini board, but not a full-size-key keyboard or a self-contained sound source. This assessment follows Novation's US product page and version-3 English guide; it is not a hands-on test.

One more octave, with the mini-key compromise intact

Thirty-seven keys cover one octave more than a 25-key controller, leaving more simultaneous notes under the hands before an octave shift becomes necessary. That can be useful for two-handed chord shapes, a wider melody register or sketching both sides of a short arrangement without changing octaves as often. It remains a mini keybed: Novation describes synth-action mini keys, but the reviewed materials do not give key spacing measurements or establish aftertouch on the keyboard keys. A 37-key count therefore answers range, not personal comfort or a piano-like action preference.

The chassis is 477.8 mm wide, about 18.81 inches, 176.8 mm deep and 49 mm high including the controls. At a nominal 19-inch desk cap, the body uses almost the full width. That figure does not include the side ports, cable bends, nearby equipment or space for hands. Treat it as a first screen, measure the actual surface and leave usable clearance rather than assuming the product will fit because the bare chassis is slightly under the limit.

A control surface as well as a keyboard

Novation lists 16 velocity-sensitive pads with polyphonic aftertouch, eight endless encoders, two touch-strip controls, an OLED display, transport and track controls, plus chord and scale tools. The pads can serve drum, clip, chord and custom control roles; they do not contain drum sounds. Pad pressure and polyphonic aftertouch describe the pad surface, not the keyboard. Do not treat either as proof that the keys send aftertouch.

The Arpeggiator, Scale mode, Fixed Chord, User Chord and Chord Map broaden what can be generated or shaped from the controller. They do not make every performance choice automatic: verify the manual's control steps and the behavior of the DAW or instrument you plan to use. The encoders have modes for common software tasks, while deeper transport and mixing functions depend on the exact integration. Novation lists specific DAWs and describes HUI for others; check version requirements, setup and current software support before treating a mapped control as universal.

USB-C host power and a separate TRS MIDI route

The Mini 37 connects to a computer through USB-C and is bus-powered. The English guide identifies a 1.5-metre USB-C-to-A cable in the box and explains that the USB connection carries data and power. A USB-C-only computer may need a suitable cable or adapter; the port shape itself is not a compatibility guarantee. A standalone hardware plan needs a powered USB host or another arrangement specifically supported by the current manufacturer documentation.

For external instruments, Novation specifies a 3.5 mm TRS Type-A MIDI Out. That is not the five-pin DIN socket used by many hardware synths, so check the adapter wiring standard and whether the exact package includes the adapter; the user guide's box list names only the keyboard and USB lead. MIDI carries control data, not audio. The receiving synth still needs its own power and an audio connection to speakers, headphones or an interface. The Mini 37 itself is described as a controller; no onboard sound engine or audio output is specified in the reviewed sources.

Color is not a functional tier

Novation also lists a Launchkey Mini 37 White edition. Its separate US product page identifies SKU/MPN NOVLK37MIN4WHT, and its feature text, port descriptions, dimensions and listed package match the standard dark-finish SKU NOVLK37MIN4. The white-and-gray finish changes the look, not the range, controls or operating plan established here. The public review uses the exact dark-finish product photograph and does not present it as the White edition; check the suffix and image when choosing a finish.

Weight and package details deserve a fresh check

There is a source conflict worth retaining rather than smoothing over: Novation's current US page lists 0.98 kg, while the version-3 English guide lists 1.02 kg (2.25 lb). I leave weight unreported as a single value and do not use it to rank or match this model. The dimensions, in contrast, are effectively consistent: the store page gives 477.8 × 176.8 × 49 mm and the guide rounds to 478 × 177 × 49 mm.

The manufacturer advertises DAW integration and software with this family, but exact license entitlements, operating-system support, firmware and registration requirements can change. Confirm the latest official download and bundle terms for the exact purchase. The pedal jack supports sustain and momentary foot-switch use according to the guide; it is not evidence that a pedal is included.

Who should shortlist it

The Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 is worth considering when a desk setup needs 37 keys, USB-C computer control, pressure-aware pads, hands-on software controls and a compact chassis. It is less suitable if you require full-size keys, direct five-pin DIN, an onboard audio source or a tight placement margin around an 18.81-inch body. Compared with the Mini 25 MK4, it adds a full octave of range but retains the mini-key format and TRS Type-A MIDI output. Compared with Arturia's MiniLab 37, it trades that model's direct DIN route and narrower published 19.8-inch comparison point for Novation's pad polyphonic-aftertouch layout and different DAW workflow; verify each exact manual and adapter path rather than reading the shared "37" label as equivalent.

Novation US Launchkey Mini 37 MK4 product page · Novation downloads and guide listing · Launchkey Mini 37 User Guide, version 3.