# Launchkey 49 MK4 vs nanoKEY2: specs and price compared

A sourced, side-by-side comparison of the Launchkey 49 MK4 (Novation) and nanoKEY2 (Korg) among midi keyboards. nanoKEY2 is the cheaper of the two at $99.99.

## Side by side

| Spec | Launchkey 49 MK4 | nanoKEY2 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| US price | $279.99 | $99.99 |
| Brand | Novation | Korg |
| Released | 2024-08 | 2011 |
| Keys | 49 | 25 |
| Key type | semi_weighted | synth |
| Drum pads | 16 | 0 |
| Knobs | 8 | 0 |
| Faders | 9 | 0 |
| Aftertouch | No | No |
| Connection | usb_midi_din | usb |
| Bundled software | Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, GForce Oberheim SEM, Klevgrand plugins, NI Komplete Select, Melodics | Korg Kontrol Editor |

## Key differences

- Keys: Launchkey 49 MK4 49 vs nanoKEY2 25
- Key type: Launchkey 49 MK4 semi_weighted vs nanoKEY2 synth
- Drum pads: Launchkey 49 MK4 16 vs nanoKEY2 0
- Knobs: Launchkey 49 MK4 8 vs nanoKEY2 0
- Faders: Launchkey 49 MK4 9 vs nanoKEY2 0
- Connection: Launchkey 49 MK4 usb_midi_din vs nanoKEY2 usb
- Bundled software: Launchkey 49 MK4 Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, GForce Oberheim SEM, Klevgrand plugins, NI Komplete Select, Melodics vs nanoKEY2 Korg Kontrol Editor

## What reviewers say

**Launchkey 49 MK4** — Two whitelisted testers reviewed the Launchkey 49 MK4 hands-on: MusicRadar covering the 49 and 61 together, and Sound on Sound covering the whole MK4 range with 49/61-specific commentary. Both reach a positive verdict. Shared praise centres on the comprehensive control surface and tight Ableton Live / DAW integration. MusicRadar additionally singles out the playable semi-weighted keys and the software bundle; Sound on Sound additionally praises the creative arpeggiator and Chord Map modes. Both flag readability of the small OLED / under-labelled controls and the chunky, heavier build of the larger 49/61. Neither ran measurements, so all findings are qualitative. (2 sourced reviews.)

**nanoKEY2** — One verified review of this exact model survives: MusicRadar (by Computer Music), 1 June 2011. It rates the nanoKey2 a clear improvement on the original nanoKey — velocity response is now consistent regardless of where you strike the key, the keys no longer catch on the casing, and the overall feel is much better — while noting the action stays very light and a little awkward, and that the original's CC Mode was removed. The verdict is 'The new hardware looks and feels better, though some may be disappointed that certain features have been left behind.' All judgements are subjective; no measurements are published. (1 sourced review.)

## Sources

- Launchkey 49 MK4: https://us.novationmusic.com/products/launchkey-49 (us.novationmusic.com, verified 2026-06-19)
- nanoKEY2: https://www.korg.com/us/products/computergear/nanokey2/ (korg.com, verified 2026-06-19)

Canonical: https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/midi-keyboards/novation-launchkey-49-mk4-vs-korg-nanokey2/
Cite: Per The Front Desk Review, Launchkey 49 MK4 ($279.99) vs nanoKEY2 ($99.99) — sourced spec-by-spec comparison at https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/midi-keyboards/novation-launchkey-49-mk4-vs-korg-nanokey2/
License: CC BY 4.0.