Choosing the right music production hardware can feel like navigating a labyrinth. Two titans often stand out for producers looking to elevate their workflow: the Akai Force and the Native Instruments Push 2. Both offer innovative ways to interact with your music, but they cater to slightly different creative philosophies and user needs.
Are you seeking a standalone powerhouse that lets you ditch the computer, or a deeply integrated controller that unlocks the full potential of Ableton Live? This comparison dives deep into the core features, strengths, and potential drawbacks of the Akai Force and Push 2.
We’ll break down what makes each unit tick, helping you discern which of these formidable contenders will best complement your unique production style and studio setup. Prepare to make an informed decision for your next creative investment.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Akai Force | Push 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Standalone Operation | Yes | No (Requires computer) |
| Built-in Screen | 7-inch touchscreen | Dual high-res displays |
| Pads | 16 velocity-sensitive RGB | 64 velocity-sensitive RGB |
| Knobs | 8 touch-sensitive | 8 endlessly-rotatable |
| Faders | 4 touch-sensitive | 8 touch-sensitive |
| Sequencer | Integrated step and clip | Integrated step and clip |
| Sampling | Built-in sampler | Integrated within Ableton Live |
| Built-in Synth Engines | Yes (Hype, Solina, etc.) | No (Relies on Ableton’s instruments) |
| Connectivity | USB, MIDI In/Out, CV/Gate | USB, MIDI In/Out |
| Storage | SD card slot, internal storage | No internal storage (relies on computer) |
| Transport Controls | Dedicated buttons | Dedicated buttons |
| Jog Wheel/Encoder | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Standalone Operation
- Akai Force: The Force is a fully standalone unit, meaning it can be used without a computer. It has its own operating system, internal storage, and can run VSTs directly. This offers ultimate freedom and portability.
- Push 2: Push 2 is a controller that *requires* a connection to a computer running Ableton Live. While it integrates deeply with Live, its functionality is entirely dependent on the host software and computer.
- Winner: akai force
Workflow and Interface
- Akai Force: Features a touch screen and a grid of 64 MPC-style pads. Its workflow is inspired by classic MPCs, focusing on sampling, sequencing, and performance. The touch screen offers visual feedback and direct manipulation.
- Push 2: Also features a grid of 64 velocity-sensitive pads, but with a different feel and purpose. It’s designed to be an extension of Ableton Live, with a focus on session view, clip launching, and detailed parameter editing via its high-resolution display.
- Winner: push 2
Sampling Capabilities
- Akai Force: Born from the MPC lineage, the Force excels at sampling. It offers robust internal sampling, slicing, and manipulation tools directly on the unit. You can sample from virtually any audio source connected to it.
- Push 2: While Push 2 can be used to trigger and manipulate samples within Ableton Live, its core strength isn’t standalone sampling. It relies on Live’s sampling instruments like Simpler and Sampler for this functionality.
- Winner: akai force
Build Quality and Pad Feel
- Akai Force: The Force has a solid, robust build with durable, responsive MPC-style pads. These pads are known for their tactile feel and excellent velocity sensitivity, making them great for drumming and performance.
- Push 2: Push 2 boasts exceptional build quality with a premium feel. Its pads are also highly sensitive and expressive, and the unit features a bright, high-resolution LED display that provides excellent visual feedback.
- Winner: push 2
Software Integration
- Akai Force: Can act as a controller for Ableton Live (with some limitations) and supports VST/AU plugins for standalone use. Its integration with other DAWs is less direct compared to Push 2.
- Push 2: Is the definitive controller for Ableton Live. Its integration is seamless and deep, allowing for unparalleled control over almost every aspect of the software, from clip launching to mixing and instrument control.
- Winner: push 2
Connectivity and Expansion
- Akai Force: Offers a good range of inputs and outputs, including MIDI, USB, and audio. It has internal storage and can accept SD cards for additional project and sample storage, making it a self-contained ecosystem.
- Push 2: Primarily connects via USB to a computer. It has MIDI I/O, but its expansion is largely dictated by the capabilities of Ableton Live and the computer it’s connected to.
- Winner: akai force
Visual Feedback
- Akai Force: Features a 7-inch touch screen that provides good visual feedback for waveforms, parameters, and project navigation. While functional, it’s not as high-resolution or as deeply integrated with parameter data as Push 2’s display.
- Push 2: Boasts a stunning, high-resolution, full-color LED display that provides incredibly detailed visual feedback for waveforms, device parameters, mixing levels, and more. This makes editing and fine-tuning highly intuitive.
- Winner: push 2
Price and Value
- Akai Force: Generally positioned at a higher price point, reflecting its standalone capabilities, internal processing power, and comprehensive feature set. It’s an investment for those seeking a computer-free production environment.
- Push 2: Also a premium product, its value is intrinsically tied to owning Ableton Live. For Live users, it’s an indispensable tool that offers immense creative potential, justifying its cost within that ecosystem.
- Winner: push 2
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Standalone Capability | Akai Force |
| Ableton Live Integration | Push 2 |
| Built-in Instruments/Synths | Akai Force |
| Pad Count/Feel | Push 2 |
| Screen Real Estate/Touchscreen | Akai Force |
| CV/Gate Connectivity | Akai Force |
| Overall Versatility (Outside of DAW) | Akai Force |
| DAW Control Depth (for its respective DAW) | Push 2 |
What They Have in Common
- Pad Performance: Both units feature highly responsive velocity-sensitive pads that are excellent for drumming, playing melodic parts, and triggering clips. The RGB lighting on both also provides visual feedback for modes and clip status.
- Clip Launching Workflow: Both are designed with clip-based production in mind, allowing users to launch, arrange, and manipulate loops and ideas in a grid format. This makes them intuitive for jamming and live performance.
- Deep Integration: While Push 2 is inextricably linked to Ableton Live, the Force offers deep integration with its own internal software and can also control DAWs via MIDI. Both aim to keep you out of your computer’s menus.
- Sequencing Capabilities: Both devices offer powerful sequencing tools, including step sequencing for precise pattern creation and real-time recording for more fluid input. This allows for detailed arrangement of your musical ideas.
- Visual Feedback: The high-resolution screens on both the Force and Push 2 provide essential visual feedback for parameters, waveforms, and track information, aiding in navigation and editing without constant reliance on a computer monitor.
Akai Force Vs Push 2 Buying Guide
Workflow and Integration
The Akai Force excels with its standalone capability, allowing for uninhibited creative flow without a computer. Its integrated sampler and extensive onboard effects make it a self-contained production powerhouse. The Push 2, conversely, is deeply integrated with Ableton Live, offering unparalleled control over the software’s features. If you prefer a hardware-centric approach, the Force shines; for those who live within Ableton Live, Push 2 is the natural extension. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Learning Curve and User Interface
Both devices present a learning curve, but they cater to different user preferences. The Force’s dedicated buttons and touch screen offer a tactile and visual experience, making it intuitive for beatmakers and hardware enthusiasts. Push 2’s grid-based interface is a direct translation of Ableton Live’s Session and Arrangement views, requiring familiarity with the software for maximum efficiency. Beginners might find the Force slightly more approachable for immediate jamming, while Ableton users will feel at home with Push 2.
Sound Design and Sampling
The Akai Force boasts a robust built-in sampler with powerful editing capabilities, including time-stretching and pitch-shifting directly on the unit. Its instrument plugins are versatile, offering a good range of sounds for immediate use. Push 2, while not a sampler in itself, provides exceptional control over Ableton Live’s Simpler and Sampler instruments, allowing for deep sound manipulation. The choice here depends on whether you want a built-in sampler or the extensive sampling power within Ableton Live.
Connectivity and Expandability
The Force offers comprehensive connectivity, including MIDI In/Out, USB, and SD card slots, making it a versatile hub for your studio. Its standalone nature means it can function independently of other gear. Push 2’s primary connection is USB to a computer running Ableton Live, but it also offers MIDI I/O, allowing it to control other hardware synths and modules. For a truly independent setup, the Force has an edge; for integration within a computer-based setup, Push 2 is designed for that purpose. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Akai Force If…
- You desire a truly standalone production experience, free from a computer.
- You want a versatile instrument with built-in synths and a powerful sampler.
- You appreciate the flexibility of CV/Gate connectivity for modular setups.
- You enjoy a tactile, hands-on workflow with a focus on arrangement and performance.
Buy Push 2 If…
- You are an existing Ableton Live user or plan to use Ableton Live extensively.
- You prioritize deep, seamless integration with a specific DAW.
- You need the most comprehensive control over Ableton Live’s features and instruments.
- You are looking for a highly refined and intuitive controller for a desktop-based workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between Akai Force and Push 2?
The Akai Force is a standalone music production system, meaning it can create music entirely without a computer. The Push 2 is a dedicated controller for Ableton Live, designed to provide deep, hands-on control over the software’s features and workflow. While both are powerful tools, their fundamental operating modes are distinct.
Which device is better for beginners?
For absolute beginners who want to start creating music immediately without a computer, the Akai Force might be more approachable due to its standalone nature and intuitive touch screen. However, if a beginner is committed to learning Ableton Live, the Push 2, despite its initial learning curve, offers a direct pathway into that powerful DAW.
Can I use Akai Force without a computer?
Yes, absolutely. The Akai Force is designed to be a fully standalone music production and performance instrument. You can record, arrange, mix, and perform your music entirely from the Force itself, without needing to connect it to a computer. This is one of its biggest selling points. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Can I use Push 2 without Ableton Live?
No, the Push 2 is fundamentally a controller for Ableton Live. It requires Ableton Live software running on a computer to function. While it can send MIDI data to other applications or hardware, its primary purpose and full functionality are unlocked only when connected to and controlling Ableton Live.
Which device offers more creative freedom?
This is subjective and depends on your preferred workflow. The Akai Force offers freedom from the computer, allowing for direct hardware manipulation and a more tactile jamming experience. The Push 2 offers creative freedom within the vast sonic and structural possibilities of Ableton Live, with its intuitive grid interface facilitating rapid idea generation and arrangement.
Final Verdict
Both the Akai Force and Push 2 are exceptional tools for electronic music production, but they cater to different needs. The Force shines as a standalone powerhouse, offering freedom from the computer and a robust, integrated workflow. Push 2 is the undisputed champion for deep Ableton Live integration, providing unparalleled hands-on control. If your priority is standalone capability and a hardware-centric approach, the Force is the clear choice. For those deeply invested in the Ableton Live ecosystem, Push 2 is indispensable.
Winner: Akai Force