Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 25-Key USB MIDI Controller

1 / 7

Product guide

Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 25-Key USB MIDI Controller

MIDI Controller: Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 (APCKEY25MK2) combines 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys with a clip-launch pad grid and assignable controls for a compact Ableton-oriented workflow. Its USB-powered setup suits laptop-based production and performance, while the two-octave keyboard is a more limited fit for parts that need a broad key range.

At a glance

The 40-pad RGB matrix is described for launching clips across Ableton Live tracks and scenes.
Velocity-sensitive mini keys, octave navigation, eight assignable knobs and directional arrows provide hands-on input and session control.
USB power avoids a separate power adapter according to the product listing.
Ableton Live Lite and a virtual-instrument pack are claimed as included software.

Price

$119.00Save 14%

Reference price: ~~$139.00~~

Price checked: Nov 12, 2026

View offer Ahead of Black FridayExplore the selection

Often bought together

Akai Professional LPD8 USB MIDI Pad Controller | 8 RGB MPC Drum Pads, 8 Assignable Knobs, Universal DAW Compatibility, for Music Producers and Beat Makers

$79.00

Pros and cons

Pros

Combines a compact 25-key keyboard with a 40-pad clip-launch grid and eight assignable knobs.
USB-powered operation supports a laptop-based setup without a separate power adapter.
Ableton Live Lite and three virtual instruments are listed as software inclusions.

Cons

The 25 mini keys cover two octaves before using octave controls, which limits the playable range at once.
Its controls and Ableton-focused workflow may feel complicated to buyers seeking a simple keyboard controller.

Technical specifications

14 specifications

Identity
Brand	Akai Professional
Model	APCKEY25MK2
Keyboard keys	25
Keyboard description	Compact, 25 velocity-sensitive piano-style keys with octave navigation buttons

Connectivity and controls
Connection listed	USB
Control method listed	Touch
Pads	40 RGB pads
Rotary knobs	8

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	900 g
Dimensions listed	19.2D x 31.5W x 4.8H centimetres

Software and compatibility
Supported software	Ableton Live
Compatible devices	PC
Platform	Macintosh
Hardware platform	PC/Mac

What to know before buying

Listing details to confirm

The listing gives conflicting dimensions: 19.2D x 31.5W x 4.8H centimetres versus 19.2 x 31.39 x 4.57 cm; 900 g. It also describes the keys as a built-in synthesizer keyboard in one claim, while other details identify them as a MIDI controller. Confirm the exact dimensions and intended software compatibility before purchase.

What’s in the box

Included

APC Key 25 mk2
Quickstart Guide
USB Cable
Safety and Warranty Manual
Software download card

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Ableton Live users who want clip launching, keyboard input and assignable controls in one compact USB controller.
Laptop-based music makers who can work with 25 mini keys and use octave navigation for a wider note range.

Less suited to

Players who need a full-size keyboard or a wide note range available at once.
Buyers looking for a straightforward, minimal controller rather than a feature-rich Ableton-oriented layout.

Akai Professional APC Key 25 MK2 25-Key USB MIDI Controller · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.3 / 5 · 655 ratings

5 stars70%70%
4 stars13%13%
3 stars6%6%
2 stars5%5%
1 star6%6%

Customer feedback describes the controller as practical, well-built and useful in a studio, with praise for its controls. Some users find it difficult or overly complicated, while feedback is mixed on value, compatibility, button response and keyboard function. The reported split matters here: the many controls and Ableton-oriented layout provide flexible clip and instrument control, but may require more setup and learning than a simple keyboard. Aggregate ratings lean positive, though they do not explain the reasons behind individual experiences.

Positive themes

Customers praise the build quality and controls.
Customers describe it as a practical studio tool.

Negative themes

Some customers find it difficult to use or more complicated than they need.

Mixed feedback

Customer opinions are mixed on value, compatibility, button responsiveness and keyboard functionality.

Frequently asked questions

Does the APC Key 25 MK2 work with Ableton Live?

The listing says it is pre-mapped for Ableton Live and includes Ableton Live Lite. It specifies pre-mapping for Ableton 11.2.7 onwards, so check your software version and setup.

How many keys and pads does it have?

The controller has 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys and a 40-pad RGB matrix. The listing describes the pads for launching clips in Ableton Live.

Does it need a separate power adapter?

The product claims USB-powered operation and says no separate power adapter is needed.

What is included?

The explicit contents list names the APC Key 25 mk2, Quickstart Guide, USB Cable, Safety and Warranty Manual, and Software download card. Software access is described separately as Ableton Live Lite and virtual instruments.