Which is The BEST Ableton Live MIDI Controller?

Confused about which Ableton Live controller is right for you? I’ve got you covered! In this video, I break down the best controllers for every budget and purpose. Discover budget-friendly options like the Akai APC Mini and mid-range favourites like the APC 40 Mk2, APC 64, and Novation Launchpad Mini Mk3. Dive into advanced picks like the Novation Launchpad X, Launchpad Pro Mk3, and the ultimate studio and live solution—the Ableton Push 3. I also explore legendary models like the Ableton Push 1 and Push 2, which are still excellent choices on the second-hand market. Whether you’re just starting with MIDI controllers or need pro features like velocity sensitivity, chord modes, and standalone capabilities, this video has everything you need. Perfect for music producers, beat makers, and anyone using Ableton Live, this guide will help you find the ideal controller for your setup. Watch now to make a wise choice and avoid costly mistakes!

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🎬 Timestamps 🎬
00:00 - Intro
00:37 - AKAI APC
08:05 - Novation LaunchPad
14:02 - Ableton Push
20:50 - Conclusion

WHO AM I:

I’m Craig, a professional musician and music technology teacher working at universities online and across London, UK. I make videos that look at easy and fun ways to get started in music production.

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[jeanangelo]

Dude idk how your channel isn't HUGE yet! You have helped me SO so much as I've started getting into music production. I can't thank you enough for your engaging and thorough edutainment <3 thank you!!

[alfonsodiaz]

For me, having the Push 2 and APC40 mk2 is the best of both worlds. APC doing clip and fader duties while Push playing the notes and beats.

[MP-mrrj]

I’ve got the Mini mk2, ideal for my workflow, I like to get ideas down quick in session and then map them out in arrangement!

[ItsWesSmithYo]

MIDI stuff reigning supreme since 1983, let that sync in 😂🖤 Thanks for the run down mate 🧮

[CoolJacketCoder]

My APC40 MK1 is still rocking and rolling in my studio 😊

[Domn]

Was about to buy the APC64. Just seemed so feature packed. This has changed my tune.

[ahmetcangokceer]

18:44 feel you totally... got the Push 2 after using Launchpad X coupled with a Korg nanokontrol 2 for years and my brain just does not function like the Push, I suppose if I started out with one maybe but the more "DIY" fashion of mapping and knowing the functions of buttons (and how interchangeable they are) gives me complete freedom with live performance

[Lycanium-cc]

I find it way easier to buy a MIDI adpater for a normal keyboard, and then get a non-keyboard MIDI controller, saves so much money and time. I see you also think that way 😁. +1sub😉

[StarsOnESP]

Thank you for the perfectly lucid and frank breakdown. Super appreciate you dialing in (so to speak) the finer points of live vs. studio use. You've resolved a multitude of quandaries for me here.

[flrn]

Push 2/3, I'm not sure how this is even a challenge :D

[maikvanrossum]

Nice overview 👍🏻 Hopefully Akai will release a APC40mk3, because those faders and knobs really are a very welcome addition to the APC64 or Push controller. Furthermore, IF you can find a mint Push 2 for that price then it’s a real steal and great choice 👌🏻 Otherwise I would definitely save for a Push 3 controller (so without the standalone option), simply because of its integrated MIDI, Audio, CV and ADAT I/O. Just a decent audio-midi interface will set you back a couple of hundred bucks. Add that to the price of a used Push 2 and the Push 3 controller version comes into reach. If not, I would go for the Novation… the Pro-version is also a bit more flexible when used as controller / sequencer for iPad (usb) or other gear (midi).

[protoeuropean]

The best combo IMO for producing AND live DJn is the APC40 mk2 and Novation launchpad pro mk3....you're welcome.

[markanthonyruiz]

Great breakdown! I would be really interested to hear your take on how the Move stacks up against these as a controller. I just got the APC40MKII as my dedicated controller and will be using the Move dedicated to drums for the most part but I know it also does a decent job of controlling ableton too. Just too much menu diving for me personally.

[geluix]

Push 2 with Launchpad pro MK3 . Also use Softube plugins with the Console 1 and fader 1 MK3 that work flawlessly in Ableton.

[synthseeker]

I know that the focus was on controlling Ableton Live, but the LPP Mk3 is an excellent DAWless controller (two discrete midi outs as well) in addition to being a nice control surface for Ableton. :)

[sanderschat]

was looking for a controller a long time.
Then today i realized i had the 'touchOSC' app still installed on my iPad.

Best controller for somebody how doesnt know what he/she wants :)

[codelevendev]

Is there any difference on the pad feeling between Launchpad X and Pro?

[vinylarchaeologist]

Excellent video, thanks for making it — I like how clearly you point out minor drawbacks that might become major depending on the user. Now, don't get mad at me, but the video would've been better without the background music, which serves no purpose.

[masterbob]

Hello, I'm a DJ and I'd like to purchase a launchpad simply to add sounds to my performances. Where it gets complicated is that I want to connect it directly to a mixing console. So, I need outputs.

I'm aware that I need to connect it to a computer to add sounds (Ableton Live). I also need to power it via USB.

Does it have internal memory?

The reason is that my DJ controller is a Pioneer XDJ-RX3 and is standalone. Therefore, it can be used without a computer.

Can you help me?

[markszili]

Really want one that will do Arrangement view and VSTs better none of these do very well at that other than perhaps half of the APC40 MKII