Whether you already have a MIDI controller or planning to get one, you are going to need the right cables for connecting it to any device. Be it your computer or any other audio device, your MIDI cannot be used without having the right connecting cables. Thus, we are here with some of the best MIDI cables which have been chosen keeping these points in mind:
- Cable Length: If you are connecting a MIDI controller to your computer, you would want the cable to be long enough for easily using your MIDI controller without running out of cable length. Because of this, almost all MIDI cables are around 6 feet for ease of use where some might be even longer at 15 feet or more.
- Connector Type: Even though all the cables here are made for MIDI controllers, not all MIDI controllers rely on the same type of cables. Hence, you can find different types of MIDI connectors like USB to 5 pin, 5 pin to 5 pin, USB type B to USB type C, and much more.
- Durability and Warranty: Similar to any other types of cables, MIDI cables can also go through a lot of abuse over time due to which having a durable and reliable cable is highly important. While most of them are rubber cables, some do use a braided design which can be quite handy. As for the warranty, even though most of them come backed by a 1-year warranty, there are also a few more options that may offer up to a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.
Surely these points are some of the most important ones when you are talking about MIDI cables. But since there is much more to check, all the best MIDI cables given down below also have their important specifications and features explained well along with an extensive ”Buying Guide” so that you can go with the best MIDI cables by the end of this listicle.
Best MIDI Cables 2024 List
| Best MIDI Cables | Cable Length | Connector Type | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FORE MIDI Cable Adapter | 6.5 feet | USB to 5 Pin | 6 month long | Check On Amazon |
| Hosa MIDI Cable | 5 feet | 5 Pin to 5 Pin | Lifetime warranty | Check On Amazon |
| MeloAudio Midi Cable | 5 feet | USB type B to Lightning | --- | Check On Amazon |
| Monoprice MIDI Cable | 3 feet | 5 Pin to 5 Pin | Lifetime warranty | Check On Amazon |
| LiDiVi MIDI Cable | 6.5 feet | USB to 5 Pin | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| Roland Midi Cable | 6.5 feet | USB to 5 Pin | Lifetime warranty | Check On Amazon |
| Cable Matters 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable | 6 feet | 5 Pin to 5 Pin | Lifetime warranty | Check On Amazon |
| Ancable MIDI Cable | 15 feet | USB to USB type B | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| TENINYU USB to MIDI Cable | 6 feet | USB to 5 Pin | 1 year long | Check On Amazon |
| LEKATO MIDI Cable | 6.5 feet | USB to 5 Pin | --- | Check On Amazon |
| Oxsubor MIDI Cable | 6.5 feet | USB to 5 Pin | -- | Check On Amazon |
| DigitalLife USB C MIDI Cable | 5.9 feet | USB type B to USB type C | --- | Check On Amazon |
Best MIDI Cable Reviews
1. FORE MIDI Cable Adapter
Fore is a highly popular brand of MIDI products and related accessories like its MIDI cable given here that can be a great high-performance option for many modern MIDI controllers.
The Fore MIDI cable is present in the 1st position in this list since this can be a great high-performance option for using with USB devices. This is made possible thanks to its USB to 5 pin connectors that use an inbuilt adapter and converter.
Even with its inbuilt converter, you get a pretty decent cable length of 6.5 feet with this MIDI cable. While you do get a pretty great and durable build quality, this MIDI cable only comes with a 6-month warranty which can be a bit limited for some users.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 6.5 ft
- Uses USB to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a 6-month warranty
Pros:
- High-performance MIDI cable for USB devices
- Inbuilt adapter for high-quality audio
- Decently long MIDI cable for most applications
Cons:
- Warranty period could have been longer
2. Hosa MIDI Cable
When compared to most other brands of MIDI cables, Hosa is a much more affordable and budget-oriented option that can be quite a viable option if you still want a well-built cable for the price.
Hosa’s MID-305BK MIDI cable is present in the 2nd position in this listicle as this is a great value for money option thanks to its given entry-level price tag. As this is an entry-level option, it is not made for USB devices since you get 5 pin to 5 pin connectors with this cable.
Thankfully, you still get a decent 5 feet length with this cable to make sure that you can easily connect your MIDI controller. Unlike other budget options, this MIDI cable even comes with a lifetime warranty making it the perfect option for long-term usage.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 5 ft
- Uses 5 pin to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- High value for money MIDI cable with entry-level price
- Excellent warranty for long term usage
- Decently long for the given price for ease of use
Cons:
- Does not work with USB devices
3. MeloAudio Midi Cable
MeloAudio is primarily known for making audio products and accessories that are ideal for using with smartphones which also includes its MIDI cables that are quite handy.
This MeloAudio MIDI cable is present in the 3rd position in this article because it is the perfect option for using along with your Apple smartphones and tablets. To make this possible, MeloAudio uses USB type B to Lightning connector with this cable.
Since you will be using this MIDI cable along with mobile devices, its given length of 5 feet should be plenty for most. However, if you are looking for something reliable, then you should look elsewhere as this one lacks any form of included warranty.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 5 ft
- Uses USB type B to Lightning connectors
- Works with iOS devices
Pros:
- Perfect for using with Apple mobile devices
- Fairly long MIDI cable
- Pretty great build quality with metal housings
Cons:
- Does not offer any form of warranty
4. Monoprice MIDI Cable
Monoprice is a highly popular brand of audio and video products since most of its offerings are highly affordable yet quite reliable which is also true for its MIDI cables given here.
The Monoprice 108532 MIDI cable is the most affordable option given here making it the perfect pick for those of you who are on a tight budget. Unfortunately, due to its cheap and entry-level price tag, you only get a 3 feet cable which might be a bit too small for some.
Thankfully, this MIDI cable still offers great compatibility since it works great with 5 pin to 5 pin MIDI controllers with ease. But the best thing about this MIDI cable is that it offers a great build quality paired with a lifetime warranty making it ideal for long-term usage.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 3 ft
- Uses 5 pin to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Quite an affordable MIDI cable for budget buyers
- Superb warranty period for long term usage
- Great compatibility with 5 pin MIDI controllers and audio devices
Cons:
- A bit too short for certain applications
5. LiDiVi MIDI Cable
In comparison to most other brands of MIDI cables out there, Lidivi is fairly new due to which most of its offerings are ideal for more recent MIDI controllers like its MIDI cable present here.
Lividi’s MIDI cable can be a great option if you have a more recent MIDI controller that relies on USB connectors for connecting to your computer. As a result, this MIDI cable comes with a USB to 5 pin connector thanks to an inbuilt adapter and converter.
As you would expect from a premium MIDI cable, this one also comes with a standard and a decent length of 6.5 feet. Because you get a pretty sturdy build quality along with a 1-year warranty, this cable can also last for a decently long time with ease.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 6.5 ft
- Uses USB to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Perfect for modern USB based MIDI controllers
- Uses an inbuilt adapter for high-quality audio transmission
- Fairly long MIDI cable for ease of use and proper connectivity
Cons:
- Not a budget-friendly option
6. Roland Midi Cable
Roland is a high-end and quite a premium brand of audio products like MIDI controllers due to which it also offers accessories like MIDI cables that can be a viable option if you are looking for something durable and reliable.
This Roland UM-ONE-MK2 MIDI cable can be a great option if you want something that offers great longevity. Talking about its connectors, this high-end MIDI cable uses USB to 5 pin connectors which is just perfect for modern MIDI controllers.
Along with having popular connectors, this MIDI cable also comes with a very practical length of 6.5 feet which makes it perfect for all sorts of applications. Because this is such a high-end MIDI cable, its included lifetime warranty justifies its price tag especially if you want a MIDI cable made for long-term usage.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 6.5 ft
- Uses USB to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Superb audio quality with high-end adapter and converter unit
- Great for long term usage with a long warranty
- Decently long MIDI cable for most applications
Cons:
- Highly expensive MIDI cables
7. Cable Matters 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable
Cable Matters is primarily a brand of cables and related products which offers all kinds of cables and connectors including its MIDI cables which offer a great value for money to the user.
The Cable Matters MIDI cable can be a great pick if you want to have multiple MIDI cables for all your MIDI controllers since it comes as a pack of 2 cables resulting in a pretty amazing value for money. Taking a look at these cables, both of them are 5 pin to 5 pin cables which are pretty versatile.
Each of these cables also offers a decent length of 6 feet which is on par with more premium options out there. Unlike other budget-friendly and entry-level options, this pack of MIDI cables even offers a lifetime warranty for both of its MIDI cables making them highly reliable.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 6 ft
- Uses 5 pin to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Pros:
- Amazing value for money with a pack of cables
- Ideal for long term usage with excellent warranty
- Great length for most MIDI cable applications
Cons:
- Lacks support for USB devices
8. Ancable MIDI Cable
You can also consider Ancable and its offerings if you are looking for MIDI cables that are more ideal for recent MIDI controllers thanks to its connectors and other features.
Ancable’s MIDI cable is the perfect option for heavy-duty usage especially if you have a more recent MIDI controller. For starters, this MIDI cable offers USB to USB type B connectors that are perfect for more recent MIDI controllers.
Because this MIDI cable is made for heavy-duty usage, you get an excellent length of up to 15 feet with it so that it can be used in all sorts of applications. Even though this is a fairly entry-level MIDI cable considering its size, you still get a 1-year warranty with it.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 15 ft
- Uses USB to USB type B connectors
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Excellent MIDI cable length for heavy-duty usage
- Works great with modern MIDI controllers with USB connectors
- Affordable MIDI cable for the given size and connectors
Cons:
- Not a compact and portable option
9. TENINYU USB to MIDI Cable
Teninyu is another brand of MIDI cables that can be considered if you are looking for something that works great with modern MIDI controllers while being compatible with all their features.
The Teninyu MIDI cable offers great compatibility with most high-end and modern MIDI controllers thanks to its connectors. To be exact, this MIDI cable uses USB to 5 pin connectors which is always great to have.
For further making this cable versatile and practical, Teninyu has also included a decently long 6 feet cable in the box. You will also find a 1-year warranty with this MIDI cable even though its build quality is a bit on the average side.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 6 ft
- Uses USB to 5 pin connectors
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
Pros:
- Fairly versatile with great compatibility
- Decently long MIDI cable for ease of use
- Works great with USB based MIDI controllers
Cons:
- Build quality could have been better
10. LEKATO MIDI Cable
For those seeking a reliable MIDI interface solution, the LEKATO MIDI Interface stands out. This USB MIDI cable is tailored for seamless editing and recording in studio environments. With a length of 6.5ft, it effortlessly connects keyboards and synthesizers to both Windows and Mac systems. Featuring up to 16 input and output channels, it ensures pristine audio transmission for your musical instruments.
Crafted with soft bare copper material, this interface boasts resistance to electromagnetic interference, ensuring optimal performance. Its plug-and-play design eliminates the hassle of special drivers—simply connect to your laptop or PC and dive into music creation. Plus, the built-in driver enables direct compatibility with MIDI devices, supporting Windows 7, 8, 10, and Mac OS.
Keep track of your MIDI connections effortlessly with the intelligent LED indicator, displaying blue for power and red for signal transfer. This versatile USB MIDI cable accommodates various electronic instruments like pianos, keyboards, electric pianos, and hand roll pianos.
Best Features:
- Generous cable length of 6.5 ft
- Utilizes USB to 5-pin connectors
- Compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, and Mac OS
- Features 1 in + 1 out MIDI connectors with LED indicators
Pros:
- Decently long cable for convenient use
- Fast and stable MIDI data transmission
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- Lacks any form of warranty
11. Oxsubor MIDI Cable
The Oxsubor USB MIDI Cable takes the spotlight among its peers for effortlessly connecting your piano keyboard to your PC or laptop. With a length of 2 meters (6.5 feet) and a vibrant red hue, this cable offers straightforward plug-and-play functionality, minus any hassle. Its built-in driver ensures a swift connection to any USB socket without complications.
A nifty LED indicator comes into play, with red indicating power and blue signaling a successful connection, simplifying status checks. Crafted with top-notch wire and chip technology, this USB MIDI cable fends off electromagnetic interference, ensuring rapid audio transmission without compromising quality.
Thanks to the high-performance HTP processing function, you’ll enjoy minimal latency during your musical endeavors, ensuring seamless sessions with no delays. What’s more, it’s compatible with a range of systems, including Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and Mac OS, supporting MIDI standard interface devices for versatile track recording and editing.
Key Features:
- Lengthy cable of 6.5 feet for flexibility
- Uses USB to 5-pin connectors
- Works with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and Mac OS
Pros:
- Budget-friendly MIDI cable option
- Supports MIDI standard interface devices
- Compact and portable design
- Convenient length for flexible connectivity
Cons:
- Requires an additional OTG cable for use with phone or Pad
12. DigitalLife USB C MIDI Cable
DigitalLife makes all kinds of electronics products and accessories like its MIDI cables given here that can be a great option for those who are looking for something versatile.
This DigitalLife MIDI cable is the most versatile option given here thanks to its vast functionality and features. The best thing about this MIDI cable is that since it uses USB type B to USB type C connectors, it works with your computer as well as your smartphone.
For connecting your MIDI controller to either of these, you can use its 5.9 feet length since it is quite handy. However, unlike other options in its class, this Digitalife MIDI cable does not come with any kind of warranty.
Best Features:
- Rated cable length of 5.9 ft
- Uses USB type B to USB type C pin connectors
Pros:
- Works with both computers and smartphones
- Fairly long cable for portable usage
- Great build quality for high durability
Cons:
- Misses out on an included manufacturer’s warranty
Buying Guide for the Best MIDI Cables
Irrespective of the device that you want to use with your MIDI controller, having the right cable is quite important. Otherwise, using your MIDI controller along with your computer, mix board, speakers, smartphone, or any other device will not be possible.
If you are also looking for such a cable for your MIDI controller, then consider checking out all the best MIDI cables given earlier in this listicle. Apart from the cables, you can also find their significant details and factors which can be quite handy for going with the right one. But if you are still confused, consider checking out this detailed buying guide for the best MIDI cables:
1. Cable Length
Even though the length of any cable like a MIDI cable won’t affect its performance, it can certainly affect its overall experience and usability quite a lot. This is due to the reason that if your MIDI cable is not long enough, using a MIDI controller can be tricky especially if your devices are placed far away from each other.
To ensure that you do not get any such issues while using your MIDI controller, most MIDI cables offer a cable length of around 6 feet. If you want something even longer, then a few options also come with up to 15 feet lengths which is more than enough even for heavy-duty usage.
2. Connector Type
Before you go ahead and pick a MIDI cable for your MIDI controller, it is highly important to ensure that the cable that you are going for is compatible and works properly. For the same, you need to check the connector type used by your MIDI cables.
Some of the common connector types that you can find while going with MIDI cables include USB to 5 pin, 5 pin to 5 pin, USB type B to USB type C, and a few others. You can go with any of these connector types depending on the connectors used by your MIDI controller and the devices you want to use along with it.
3. Durability and Warranty
After choosing the right length for your compatible MIDI cable, you would want your MIDI cable to last for as long as possible. And to ensure the same, checking the warranty offered by your MIDI cable can be a great idea. Even though almost all MIDI cables usually come with a 1-year warranty, some of them may also offer a lifetime warranty for your peace of mind and much better longevity. Talking about their durability and construction, even though most MIDI cables are made out of rubber, a few options may also offer braided construction which lasts much longer quite easily.
FAQs for the Best MIDI Cables
If you are not familiar with MIDI controllers, they are great devices for easily creating music using your computer or other sound devices. And a MIDI cable simply allows you to connect your MIDI controller with full compatibility at all times while using your MIDI controller.
If you have a MIDI controller that uses the 5 pin connector, it can still be used with USB devices with the right cables. This is possible thanks to USB to 5 pin cables that have inbuilt adapters and converters that make this possible.
Even though a MIDI controller will not work with your smartphone directly, it can be definitely used if you are using a compatible app with the right cable. For iOS smartphones, you will need a Lightning MIDI cable, and for Android smartphones, you will need a USB type C MIDI cable to use a MIDI controller for your smartphone.
Conclusion
As you can most likely tell by the name, a MIDI cable gets used to connect MIDI controllers to devices like mixboards, your computer, your smartphone, or any other device along with you might want to use a MIDI controller. Since these cables are quite important, we have already discussed a few of the best MIDI cables earlier in this listicle.
Along with these cables, you can also find their major features and specifications along with a complete buying guide so that you can easily choose the right one for you. However, if you are still confused and can’t pick the right MIDI cable for your needs, consider checking out our favorite recommendations for the best MIDI cables as given here:
- In comparison to most other MIDI cables, the Ancable MIDI cable is highly ideal for heavy duty usage. The primary reason for the same is that you get a 15 feet long cable which is much longer than most other options. You also get a decent 1 year long warranty with this USB to 5 Pin connector which is always great to have.
- If you want something highly versatile, then the DigitalLife MIDI cable can be a great option. Thanks to its USB type B to USB type C connectors, you can not only use it with your computer, but it even works with smartphones. This MIDI cable also features a decent 5.9 feet length which should be good enough for most users.
- Those of you who are on a tight budget can go with the Monoprice 108532 MIDI cable since it is the cheapest option given above. Despite being the cheapest option, you still get a lifetime warranty with MIDI cable. Although, due to its entry level price tag, this 5 pin to 5 pin MIDI cable only has a 3 feet length which is to be expected.
