# Launchkey 49 MK4 vs A-49: specs and price compared

A sourced, side-by-side comparison of the Launchkey 49 MK4 (Novation) and A-49 (Roland) among midi keyboards. A-49 is the cheaper of the two at $175.

## Side by side

| Spec | Launchkey 49 MK4 | A-49 |
| --- | --- | --- |
| US price | $279.99 | $175 |
| Brand | Novation | Roland |
| Released | 2024-08 | 2012-10 |
| Keys | 49 | 49 |
| Key type | semi_weighted | synth |
| Drum pads | 16 | 0 |
| Knobs | 8 | 2 |
| Faders | 9 | 0 |
| Aftertouch | No | No |
| Connection | usb_midi_din | usb_midi_din |
| Bundled software | Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, GForce Oberheim SEM, Klevgrand plugins, NI Komplete Select, Melodics | Ableton Live Lite |

## Key differences

- Key type: Launchkey 49 MK4 semi_weighted vs A-49 synth
- Drum pads: Launchkey 49 MK4 16 vs A-49 0
- Knobs: Launchkey 49 MK4 8 vs A-49 2
- Faders: Launchkey 49 MK4 9 vs A-49 0
- Bundled software: Launchkey 49 MK4 Ableton Live Lite, Cubase LE, GForce Oberheim SEM, Klevgrand plugins, NI Komplete Select, Melodics vs A-49 Ableton Live Lite

## 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.)

## Sources

- Launchkey 49 MK4: https://us.novationmusic.com/products/launchkey-49 (us.novationmusic.com, verified 2026-06-19)
- A-49: https://www.roland.com/us/products/a-49/specifications/ (roland.com, verified 2026-06-19)

Canonical: https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/midi-keyboards/novation-launchkey-49-mk4-vs-roland-a-49/
Cite: Per The Front Desk Review, Launchkey 49 MK4 ($279.99) vs A-49 ($175) — sourced spec-by-spec comparison at https://frontdeskreview.com/gear/midi-keyboards/novation-launchkey-49-mk4-vs-roland-a-49/
License: CC BY 4.0.