I might have a use for something like this inexpensive compact MIDI controller keyboard:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079FGP3BH/ref=twister_B07FYNHSSS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

but hoping for a little better quality. (One Amazon review said the firmware driver for this particular off-brand model infected his computer with a virus!) I'm looking for portability, at least a few pad triggers. But the most important feature is that it must have a traditional MIDI 5-pin connector. Most of the compact controllers are designed for use with laptops/software and lack a DIN connector for MIDI out.

If any 'Zoners have experience with something like this and a specific recommendation, please share. Thanks!

Never heard of this brand...and looks like that's the only thing they sell on Amazon? If so, then it'll give you nothing but trouble . A small OS update could make it useless. I would totally pay a little more and go for something like AKAI.

M-Audio Code series.. 25, 49 and 61 key models..

I have the Code61.... They may be the best on the market..

The Akai advanced and Native instruments are comparable , but nearly twice the price..

I like the keys more on the Code61... and it comes with a ton of VST's..

In general you get what you pay...

all these cheap keyboards/controllers in general have a keyboard action unworthy of a keyboardist...

And don't believe everything you read on internet forums..
Its highly unlikely he got the virus from a driver..
And if so, he should have scanned it by his virus protection..

If you want to enjoy a keyboard, make sure you like its action, and spend some dollars on that..

One of the things I LIKE about that lil' cheapie, is that the keys extend all the way to the left, and pads are on the right. This might theoretically allow it to be used hand-held, like an *ahem* bass keytar.

So many of the controllers today have a wide section on the left, with pitch and mod wheels, joystick, etc., which i never use (and cannot be used one-handed.) If necessary I could get a separate pad controller and graft it onto the right side. I guess what I really want is a 25-37 key controller with a very compact form factor. I'm not terribly picky about the action for this application, but would prefer full-size keys.

This controller: https://www.zzounds.com/item--FATCMK137PAK
could be part of the solution, but Fatar no longer makes one like this, and amazingly, neither does anyone else. Grrr...!