12 Best Synthesizers for Both Professional and Amateur Musicians!

In our experts’ opinion, this is the best all-around synthesizer available today. It has a wide range of excellent features while also being easy to use. It ticks all of the right boxes while also offering exceptional value for money.

There’s nothing not to love here. It has everything that you need and even has a hybrid signal. Along with that, there is a versatile digital oscillator, variable analog filter, and a 64-step sequencer. It means your creativity has no limits.

It’s a great size and has 25 touch-sensitive keys that feel great. Connectivity won’t be an issue, and that includes MIDI in and out ports. It has everything you need here with plenty of versatility to get the exact synth sounds you want.

What do we love it for?

• There is a lot to love about this synth. Along with all the features we mentioned, it also has very low latency. You'll have an immense amount of fun exploring how to use this synth, and it's not too hard to learn. It all comes with an affordable price tag.

What were we disappointed with?

• Part of the reason it has that affordable price is that there are some cheaper plastic parts on it. That’s not a huge issue as the durability is still quite good. Apart from that, it’s hard to pick any fault with this synth.

If you wanted a purely digital synth, then you can’t go wrong with this model. It’s a great bridge between the past’s synth machines, but with the modern wonders of technology, it has a classic FM sound engine that will give you a lot of fun.

The FM synthesizer has three voices that can replicate the sound engine available on classic FM synthesizers. It has a user-friendly interface that is intuitive and allows you to get the results you’re looking for effortlessly.

It has a 16-step sequencer that allows you to make countless powerful rhythms. On top of that, there are an ADSR envelope generator and a multi-touch keyboard. It’s a fantastic synth and a perfect example of a high-quality FM model.

What stands out?

• We loved the wide range of sounds that can be produced by this synth, which we thought was the best budget synthesizer. That’s helped by the large variety of presets available, along with the range of features available. On top of this, it's entertaining to use, and you'll love learning with it.

What cons did we manage to find?

• Why you’ll enjoy the learning experience, it does have quite a steep learning curve with it. The amount of time this takes will depend from one person to the next, but hopefully, you enjoy the experience.

The Moog Grandmother is well-known for its immense quality both in terms of construction and sound. It’s a semi-modular analog instrument that many synth enthusiasts love using due to the depth of sound.

It also has a built-in arpeggiator along with and an immense 64-step sequencer. You can start using it straight away as no patching is required. You can then explore the infinite sound possibilities that this synth gives you.

There are many things to love here, such as the immersive ambient sound you get from the analog spring reverb. An ADSR envelop generator and low-pass filter are added positives here, and it’ll also have all the connections you need.

What are its best features?

• With Moog, you know you’re getting fantastic quality but also high value for money. You’ll love the features here to go with its solid build. It’s a good synth for portability while also being fairly simple to use.

What could be improved?

• One of the factors that do make this an affordable synth is that there is a lack of versatility here. It’s important to see whether or not this is suitable for the results you’re looking for. If it is, then that lack of versatility won’t be an issue.

As technology improves, there was always a chance analog would be left behind, and that has been the case with other forms of technology. With music, however, many people still swear by that analog sound.

Companies such as Korg have moved with the times and created analog synths that are suitable for the next generation while still having that classic sound. With the Minilogue XD, they have found that balance perfectly.

Plenty of functionality is offered here with its digital multi-engine, a powerful 16-step sequencer, and micro tuning. The result is a synth that gives you exceptional possibilities for your sound design and musical performance.

What are its best features?

• Creative minds will love the sound customization offered here as the possibilities are near-endless. It’s very well made with a solid build quality that should see it lasting for many years. The intuitive sequencer is also a joy to use.

What could be improved?

• It's worth noting that the output is mono, which may not be ideal for everyone. The effects are stereo, but the sound will still feel centralized. This won’t be an issue for all users as it depends on your preference.

The Dave Smith Instruments OB-6 is another brilliant analog synth that has a long list of excellent qualities. It has a 6 voice polyphony that works very well with a keyboard that has just four octaves and semi-weighted keys.

The sequencer on this synth is another impressive feature as it has 64-steps to give you excellent control over your music creativity. Other features include a 2-pole filter and true voltage-controlled oscillators that we loved.

It’s perfect for musicians on the go, especially considering the wide number of inputs and outputs it has. You can also use it easily as a MIDI keyboard and even attach effects pedals. It has everything you need in a solid device.

What are its best features?

• Along with all of the features that we've looked at here, it also has brilliant build quality, which makes it highly portable. The sequencer is also exceptional. On top of that is the analog sound that many people adore.

What could be improved?

• It's hard to pick any fault with this keyboard. If we had to pick one, it may be that the keyboard is not large enough. It only has 4 octaves, which may limit those looking for a little more range.

This is a fantastic FM synth for anyone that wants a high level of portability. Along with having a power adapter, the synth has a battery that can last up to 5 hours. It also has an auto power-off function that will save battery.

It’s a digital synth that comes with 8-voice polyphony. That comes from a 37-key keyboard that is central to the creativity you can produce from this synth. It has a loop sequencer along with the EG envelope generator.

You get a 4-operator FM sound engine that contains 12 different algorithms. The connectivity options are quite good, and it has an in/out MIDI option. It looks great and is quite affordable, which makes it an excellent choice for many users.

What do we love it for?

• It has the affordability and build quality you'd expect from Yamaha. On top of that, it has excellent sound and key feel from the keyboard. In many ways, it's per perfect FM synth and can be integrated will with the dedicated app.

What were we disappointed with?

• It can be a little hard to edit envelopes here when compared with other models. You get used to it eventually, but it can be quite a difficult learning curve.

This synth is genuinely brilliant for anyone that wants to create any monophonic sound that they could possibly want. It allows you to make those sounds with delicacy while also be relatively easy for you to use.

It’s a pure analog synth that has a flexible multi-wave LFO along with a variable filter. Another impressive aspect of this synth is the paraphonic mode that allows you to use those analog oscillators independently for a wide range of tonal options.

The design here is semi-modular, and you don’t need to start patching straight away for high performance. The portable is also fantastic, which makes this synth perfect for both home studio and those on the road.

What are its best features?

• This is another synth that finds that perfect balance of being true to the synths of mold while having all the modern touches. It's brilliant to use, and this is aided by responsive online support.

What could be improved?

• They aren't really downsides as such as it's just the type of synth it is, but there isn't any patch storage or a sequencer. If you want those, you'd either need to get extra devices or look for another model.

This is another Behringer synth that has fantastic analog sound. It’s brilliant for many different reasons, including that it has a 12-voice polyphonic synthesizer. That gives is enormous potential for making exceptional sounds.

The features here are incredible, including a 32-step sequencer, 8-channel modulation matrix, 3 ADSR generators, and 4 FX engines. Along with that are dual analog OSCs and LFOs per voice, so you can see that you’ll never be short of creative options here.

A unique feature here is the remote control, as you’ll be able to control it via many different Apple and Android devices. Along with that, it has many other connection options, and that even includes built-in Wi-Fi.

What stands out?

• We've listed many great features here, but the synthesizer is also brilliant for patch building. The quality of the controls is high, and you can see that in the knobs and sliders. It all adds up to fantastic value for money and a synth you'll fall in love with.

What cons did we manage to find?

• While the knobs and sliders feel good, the overall build quality isn't quite as high as on other models. It's not terrible by any means, but it's worth noting. If you take care of it, you'll have a great synth for a long time.

This is another excellent synth for those looking for one without a keyboard. It’s a monophonic analog synth that may be suited to your style. Next, it has a good range of connections and can be used with batteries along with the power cable.

The sequencer here is very impressive with its 16 steps and selectable length between 1 and 16. It also has real-time and step-recording with parameter recording along with real-time parameter recording.

It features a 2-octave keypad for those who like a change from a traditional keyboard. On top of that is 2 VCO with variable shape waveforms and LFO. It’s a brilliant option, and you’ll get lost in many hours of playing this synth.

What makes it special?

• This is a fantastic option as a beginner synth, considering how easy it is to use. It's lightweight and portable, too, so you can take it anywhere. The sound potential is tremendous, and you'll love the smooth synth sounds.

What cons did we find?

• The build quality here is on the lower side, and we do have questions about its long-term durability. It seems to play very well, however, but you’ll want to ensure that you take good care of it.

You can always trust a Roland instrument and this is no different. It’s another brilliant option for those who love the sound and feel of those classic synths. It mixes both digital and analog to give you the best of both worlds.

The dedicated multiple dedicated effects means that you can switch between modern and vintage oscillators and filter types. You can then use your own creativity to split and layer them into new sounds.

The range of features here makes this one of the most versatile synths available today. The high resolution controls mean that it can produce whatever type of sound you’re after. It puts everything you need into one synth for ultimate usability.

What are its best features?

• We've already mentioned it, but the versatility is probably the best feature of this synth. The customization options are phenomenal, and excellent sound quality is produced. Added to this, its user friendly, so the learning curve isn't too steep.

What could be improved?

• There a few limitations to note, such as being unable to map an expression pedal to arbitrary parameters. Also, it shows up as two MIDI devices in your DAW, which can be a little annoying.

The Digitone is an example of how FM synthesis can be modernized. It beautifully combines FM sound generation with a subtractive synthesis signal flow for fantastic results. It’s going to bring a lot of fun for you.

It allows you to create a whole new world of sound from harsh, chaotic noise to mellow and soothing tones. There are multiple FM algorithms to choose from which each of them having carefully selected parameters.

It has 8-note polyphony along with 16 keyboard pads. For envelopes, it has two FM controls and a filter that has multi-mode and base width. On top of this is a 4-track sequencer that you’ll enjoy working with to create your unique sounds.

Why are we impressed?

• We liked the level of sound experimentation that you can get from this synth. It's very well engineers and produces deep sound with plenty of bass. The presets available also give you a great starting point for your music.

What negatives must you be aware of?

• The 4 tracks of the sequencer do limit its usability quite a bit. It's not an issue for everyone, but it's worth noting. Aside from that, it's hard to find fault with this excellent synth, which many people love.

The Novation Circuit Tracks Groovebox is a compact yet powerful standalone music production instrument designed to elevate the modern musician’s creative workflow. This device is versatile and portable, equipped with a two-part digital synth, a four-part drum machine, and an intuitive grid-based sequencer. With dedicated controls for patterns, effects, and mixer functions, it offers a tactile and hands-on experience that caters to beginners and seasoned producers alike.

Regarding performance, the Circuit Tracks delivers crisp, dynamic sounds across various genres. The synth engines, inherited from Novation’s reputable lineage, offer an array of rich tones and textures. Its sequencer, known for its immediacy, allows for quick pattern creation and modification. The battery life is commendable, providing up to four hours of continuous use, making it suitable for on-the-go sessions. MIDI in, out, and thru audio inputs offer flexibility in integrating with other gear.

The Novation Circuit Tracks Groovebox is particularly suited for electronic music producers looking for a nimble instrument that doesn’t compromise on power. Its portability means it’s perfect for on-the-spot creativity – whether on a commute, waiting at an airport, or jamming with friends at a park. Furthermore, for producers who thrive on live performances, Circuit Tracks offers an excellent means of delivering captivating sets without the need for a laptop.

One of the key differentiators for the Circuit Tracks is its ability to be a truly standalone device, eliminating the need for a computer. This offers an uninterrupted, immersive experience that few competitors can match at its price point. Additionally, its grid-based sequencer with clear visual feedback makes it incredibly intuitive, streamlining the often cumbersome track creation and editing process.

While the Circuit Tracks boasts an impressive feature set, it’s not without its limitations. The in-built sounds, though vast, might not cater to every producer’s taste, and importing custom samples can be a bit tedious. Additionally, those heavily reliant on screen-based workflows might find the absence of a display challenging. In terms of specific circumstances, the Groovebox is best suited for those who value portability and tactile interaction over expansive screen interfaces and infinite sound libraries.

Why is it special?

• Compact and portable design
• Robust build quality
• Intuitive grid-based sequencer
• Standalone functionality

What are the flaws?

• Absence of a display screen
• Importing samples could be smoother
• Limited in-built sound library