Keyboards and MIDI controllers travel badly. They are wide, thin and full of knobs, keys and screens — exactly what cheap padding fails to protect. Here is how to choose the right case or bag.
Measure the Board Correctly
Measure width (the longest side), depth and height including any protruding knobs. Controllers with heavy knobs or expression wheels are taller than they look. Add 3–5 cm to each dimension so the board fits with clearance — forcing a controller into a tight bag is how sliders get bent.
Common Sizes
- 25–37 keys: compact bags around 50–60 cm — often shoulder bags.
- 49–61 keys: 80–100 cm — the most common gigging size; look for backpack straps.
- 73–88 keys: 120 cm and up — wheeled or two-person carry cases.
Padding and Structure
Look for rigid or semi-rigid panels across the full face of the bag, not just corner foam. Keyboards flex; a bag that bends in the middle offers little protection. Thick EVA or multi-layer padding on the bottom and a padded flap over the keys are the minimum for regular transport.
Wheeled vs Carry
Boards over 61 keys are heavy enough that wheeled cases save your back at load-in. For smaller boards, backpack straps beat side handles for walking with the instrument. Check that wheels and handles are reinforced — they take the hardest abuse.
Protecting Screens and Knobs
Controllers with screens or fader banks need extra top padding. Some players add a soft cloth between the board and the bag lid. Never stack other gear on top of a keyboard bag in the van.
Whatever size you need, the rule is the same: measure first, then choose a bag with structure, not just soft foam. See our padded case range or talk to us about custom keyboard case sizes.