A MIDI to USB cable lets you connect your MIDI device straight to your PC without an interface. You only need a USB port on your computer.
MIDI cables connect electronic instruments like keyboards to computers. Despite being nearly 40 years old, they’re still used today in professional and amateur musical productions.
My primary recommendation is the FORE USB MIDI Interface Cable. This affordable yet high-quality product will satisfy the needs of most users.
My second recommendation is the Sanoxy USB to MIDI Converter Cable 2 m for those on a tighter budget.
The 5 Best MIDI to USB Cables (2026)
Let’s compare these in more detail.
1. FORE USB MIDI Interface Cable
Straightforward USB-A connection
FORE's two-DIN cable is a simple route from one MIDI input and output on an instrument to a computer's USB-A port. It suits occasional keyboard recording when filtering and routing controls are unnecessary.
Check the instrument for round five-pin MIDI sockets before buying; a USB-only keyboard needs a different connection. Connect the plug marked IN to the instrument's MIDI OUT.
Pros
- Simple two-DIN layout
- Compact cable format
Cons
- No advanced routing controls
| Computer plug | USB-A |
| Instrument plugs | MIDI IN and OUT |
| Role | One MIDI input/output pair |
2. Sanoxy USB to MIDI Converter Cable 2 m
2. Sanoxy USB to MIDI Converter Cable 2 m
Basic long cable
The Sanoxy cable fills the inexpensive, longer-reach role for a single five-pin MIDI instrument. It transfers MIDI performance data, not audio from the keyboard's speakers or line outputs.
Generic interfaces can vary in handling dense SysEx data; for firmware transfers or complex routing, choose a better documented interface below. Confirm driver support for the computer you actually use.
Pros
- Two-metre reach
- Basic two-DIN connection
Cons
- Limited published routing detail
| Length | 2 m |
| Computer plug | USB-A |
| Signal | MIDI data, not audio |
3. CME U2MIDI Pro USB MIDI Interface
3. CME U2MIDI Pro USB MIDI Interface
Best control over MIDI routing
The U2MIDI Pro replaces an old LiDiVi cable whose current offer could not be confirmed. CME provides a documented one-in, one-out interface with optional message filtering, mapping and routing through its UxMIDI tools.
Its extra setup is unnecessary if all you need is a note input. This is the USB-A U2MIDI Pro; CME's C2MIDI Pro USB-C model and U6MIDI multiport box are different products.
Pros
- Documented routing and filtering
- One-in, one-out MIDI
Cons
- Advanced features require configuration software
| Computer plug | USB-A |
| MIDI ports | 1 in / 1 out |
| Cable | 2 m |
4. iConnectivity mio USB MIDI Interface
4. iConnectivity mio USB MIDI Interface
Reliable compact interface
The original mio remains a compact one-in, one-out interface for connecting a DIN-equipped keyboard or sound module to a Mac or PC. It is a good step up when a named interface matters more than an anonymous cable.
The old Guitar Center identity could not be confirmed and is detached; the exact Amazon mio offer remains new and in stock. Check computer port type before buying an adapter.
Pros
- Named 1×1 interface
- Compact DIN leads
Cons
- No additional MIDI ports
| Computer plug | USB-A |
| MIDI ports | 1 in / 1 out |
| Model | mio |
5. Roland UM-ONE mk2 USB MIDI Interface
5. Roland UM-ONE mk2 USB MIDI Interface
Documented interface for legacy gear
Roland's UM-ONE mk2 remains useful for a five-pin keyboard, module or older sequencer. It has one MIDI input and one MIDI output; the old 'one in two out' wording was wrong.
The Amazon listing had unknown availability and the old Sweetwater catalog identity did not resolve, so the verified in-stock Thomann product page is the active offer. Read Roland's driver guidance for the host operating system.
Pros
- Clear port labels and activity indicators
- Manufacturer driver support
Cons
- USB-A host connection may need an adapter
| Computer plug | USB-A |
| MIDI ports | 1 in / 1 out |
| Model | UM-ONE mk2 |
What is a MIDI to USB cable used for?
A USB-to-MIDI interface links a computer to an instrument with five-pin DIN MIDI sockets. It transfers notes, timing and controller messages, not the instrument's audio. A keyboard with only USB MIDI needs a suitable USB connection instead of the two-DIN cable discussed here.
How many MIDI to USB cables do I need?
A simple one-in, one-out cable connects one DIN MIDI input and output pair. More devices may need a multiport MIDI interface or a carefully planned MIDI thru chain. Count the ports and directions your setup requires before buying another cable.
How do I use a MIDI to USB cable?
Connect the two 5-pin connectors to your musical device and the USB connector to your computer or tablet. Remember, the MIDI-out connection of the cable should go to the MIDI-in of your instrument, while the MIDI-in of the cable should connect to the MIDI-out of your device.
How long is the ideal length of the MIDI to USB Cable?
Choose a cable that reaches without strain or a tangle across the floor. The models here are short desktop cables; for a longer stage run, plan the computer position, USB extension limits and protection of the DIN plugs rather than assuming any length will behave identically.
Verdict
Most MIDI to USB cables work fine, but if you’re doing professional gigs or have device compatibility issues, consider investing in a pricier one. If your needs are simpler, a basic cable should suffice.
For a simple, no-nonsense MIDI to USB interface, I recommend the FORE MIDI to USB cable at a good price. If you’re on a tighter budget, opt for the Sanoxy USB Data to MIDI Keyboard Interface Converter Adapter Cable.