Akai Professional APC Mini MK2 USB MIDI Pad Controller
- 64 RGB backlit pads as a clip matrix
- 9 assignable faders, mapped to Live macro controls
- 1 to 1 mapping for Ableton Live
- Drum and Note modes, Smart Scale View
- Scene launch buttons, soft keys and arrow buttons
- USB 2.0 Type B, Mac and Windows
- Ableton Live Lite download included
- 1 year manufacturer warranty
Last refreshed Oct 2, 2026 · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A grid controller built around Ableton Live clip launching, with faders for mixing and macros. It is aimed at Live users, so other software needs manual mapping.
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ASIN: B0BPC32YZ1Model: APCMINI2Category: MIDI Controllers
Overview
A Live performer or beat maker gets a compact grid of backlit pads that mirrors the clip view in Ableton, plus a row of faders. Scene launch buttons, soft keys and arrows move around big sessions without looking at the screen.
The direct mapping means clips and macros respond right away in Ableton Live. Outside that software, the layout depends on what the host program lets you assign.
Who it's for
Looping performers, remix artists and live set builders working in Ableton get tight integration. Keyboard players, or anyone using different software with no mapping time, should look at a general controller.
Pros and cons
- Large pad grid for clip launching
- Faders for macro control
- Drum and Note modes
- Ableton Live Lite included
- Best suited to Ableton Live
- No keys or knobs
Performance notes
Pad colors follow the clip state in Live, so the grid shows what is playing or queued. Faders map to the selected device macros, and Smart Scale View shows the active key on the pads so the laptop screen can stay out of view.
Specifications
| Brand | Akai Professional |
|---|---|
| Model | APCMINI2 |
| Dimensions & fit | |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 8.28 x 9.48 x 1.2 inches (D x W x H) |
| Weight | 810 g |
| Construction & materials | |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Compatibility & installation | |
| Connectivity Technology | USB 2.0 Type B |
| Included components | |
| Included Components | USB cable, Ableton Live Lite download, user guide, software download cards, safety and warranty manual |
| Warranty & support | |
| Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer |
| Supported Software | Ableton Live |
| Other details | |
| Control Type | Track faders, clip launching |
| Number of pads | 64 |
| Number of faders | 9 |
| Pad type | RGB backlit |
| Platform | Mac, Windows |
| Modes | Drum, Note |
Closest rivals on specs
M-AUDIO Keystation Mini 32 MK3 USB MIDI Controller- Item Weight 1.79 vs 1 pounds (+79%)
Donner Mini MIDI Keyboard N-25- Item Weight 1.79 vs 0.99 pounds (+81%)
Korg nanoKONTROL2 Slim-Line USB Control Surface- Item Weight 1.79 vs 0.65 pounds (+175%)
Frequently asked questions
How do I set up the Akai APC Mini MK2 with Ableton?
The listing names 1 to 1 mapping for Ableton Live and includes Ableton Live Lite as a download, with a user guide and software download cards. It gives no step list.
Does it work on Mac and Windows?
Yes, both are listed as platforms, over a USB 2.0 Type B port.
Can it play notes without a keyboard?
Note mode lets you play melodies on the pads, and Drum mode works with the Ableton Drum Rack.