Piano Keyboard Reviews

Buyer's Guides

How Many Keys Should a Beginner Keyboard Have?

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If you’re interested in playing the piano, or you’ve always wanted your child to learn it, knowing the fundamentals of beginner keyboards will get you off to a great start.

The first factor to consider is the number of keys on the keyboard. For someone with no musical knowledge, maybe think that all keyboards have the same number of keys. Not true! We’ll walk you through the different keyboard sizes as well as which one is best for you.

How Are the Keys on a Keyboard Structured? In Other Words, How Do They Work?

Beginners start out by playing on a C scale without any sharps and flats. This basically means that they start playing on only the white keys. As you progress, you start playing on the black keys. As you play more complex music, you will need to play more notes. Other than that, there is nothing particularly special or different about the black keys.

What Are the Names/Notes of the Keys on a Keyboard?

The white keys on a keyboard are labelled according to the alphabet in a repetitive loop. The black keys have 2 names each, for instance D-Flat (C-sharp), and so on. Sharps and flats are better understood by first clearing up what semitones are.

A semitone (also known as a half tone) is the interval between two full tones that are next to each other. For instance, the distance between D and D-sharp is a semitone.

A whole tone is the distance between two semitones. For instance, C or D are each whole tones.

Pianos generally come with a 12-note pattern that is repeated. For acoustic pianos, it is repeated 7 times. This number may be smaller for pianos with fewer keys.

How Many Keys Do the Most Popular Keyboards Have?

Standard keyboards have 88 keys. However, there are small pianos with fewer keys, suitable for those who just want to learn the basics of piano-playing. They are also ideal for those who have difficulty in learning on a full keyboard. Other common sizes include the following:

  • 66-key keyboard
  • 76-key keyboard
  • 44-key keyboard (for children)

Why Do Some Keyboards Have 61, 76, or 88 Keys? In Other Words: Why Don’t all Keyboards Have the Same Number of Keys?

Keyboards may have a different number of keys due to a number of reasons:

Functionality

Some keyboards may have what seem to be keys that are never used. These keys help carry the overtones of the keys you are actually playing on.

If you just want to play melodies or a solo gig, a small keyboard will suffice. If you work at a radio station or a group band, you’ll need a keyboard with which you can play a high range of octaves.

Price

Keyboards with fewer keys are cheaper and more affordable. For those on a budget, such as college students, etc., they are a more feasible option. They’re also a good option if you’re not sure how long you’ll keep playing or if you’re teaching a child who constantly changes their mind.

What is the Minimum Number of Keys that a Beginner Keyboard Should Have?

The minimum number of keys varies for children and adult players.

For Children

For toddlers, such as those around the age of 5, a keyboard with 25 or 44 keys may be sufficient. For instance, Casio has a popular 44-key model that is quite popular among children.

For children about the age of 9 years, a 66-key piano or even the full 88-key piano is also suitable. This is because by then, their hands are big enough to play on a regular keyboard and their general motor skills have developed sufficiently to play properly. Some children may reach this point before the age of 9.

For children who start playing on a 66 or 88-key keyboard, the transition to play complex notes is easier and quicker.

For Adult Beginners

Ideally, adult players should start playing on an 88-key keyboard. However, if for some reason, whether it is affordability, or availability (if you’re buying a second-hand piano) you can’t find one, a 66 or 76-key keyboard will work. Most tunes, such as pop or rock music, can be learnt and played on these keyboards. However, for serious players who want to reach the pro level and play complex music, such as classical, they will require a full 88-key keyboard.

Another plus of playing on an 88-key keyboard is that you won’t have to worry about upgrading your instrument as you progress.

How Many Keys Are There On A Piano Keyboard?

Wrapping Up

Before you decide which keyboard you get, you need to consider your budget and long-term plan. If you wish to play professionally or play specific types of music, such as classical, then get an 88-key keyboard from the start. If it doesn’t fit your budget, start with a 66-key keyboard until you can get a bigger one. Either way, make your decision carefully because choosing the right keyboard will affect the way you play.

Hamzer Keyboard: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

How to Choose a Weighted Keyboard

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When looking for the best keyboard to buy, weighted keyboards are generally at the top of most people’s recommendation lists.  As the name implies, a weighted keyboard consists of weighted keys that play a crucial role in the overall performance and sound of the instrument.

Weighted keyboards are similar to traditional pianos, so getting used to this type of keyboard is not difficult, and the transition is easy to make. They are great for beginners as they help the player develop the necessary finger strength and flexibility.

They not only help them learn the varying dynamics but also how to control them while playing the piano. These factors, indeed, help pianists become better musicians with a great musical ear in no time.

If you are on the lookout for the best-weighted keyboard, this article will serve as the perfect guide to help you choose a weighted keyboard for your piano practice.

Decide on the Type of Weighted Keyboard You Want

Weighted keyboards can be divided into three major categories – semi-weighted, graded weighting, and hammer action keys. Before you consider investing in a weighted keyboard, it is crucial to decide which type will best serve your music needs and requirements.

If you are a beginner, we won’t recommend semi-weighted keyboards for your piano practice. The keys are quite resistant, which may hinder your progress as a pianist.

Being a novice musician, your goal is to get into the rhythm of playing the instrument with as much ease and comfort as possible. To replicate the feel of a real piano, stick to a fully-weighted keyboard, a hammer-action keyboard, or a graded action keyboard.

Hammer action keyboards offer a mechanism that replicates the hammer action of a traditional piano. As you press the keys, you will feel resistance that is similar to the resistance produced by a real piano hammer.

The graded hammer action simply called graded weighting or graded action is a standard feature on stage keyboards, acoustic keyboards, and digital keyboards. On acoustic pianos, they offer more resistance in the lower range and less resistance in the upper range. Digital keyboards with graded weighting have keys individually weighted that add to their playability.

In many instances, digital pianos with graded weighting emulate the feel and weight of wood or ivory rather than plastic.

Apart from these options, a common keyboard has unweighted keys, which, as the name suggests, means that it doesn’t have weighted action. These keyboards do not come with weights within their keybeds. However, they still produce responsive sounds.

What Is the Difference Between Semi-Weighted and Fully-Weighted Keyboards?

Different keyboards have different weighted actions; for example, semi-weighted keyboards have semi-weighted keys, hammer action keyboards have hammer action keys, weighted keyboards have weighted keys, and so on and so forth.

Many people mistake weighted keyboards to be same as semi-weighted keyboards since they produce somewhat similar sounds. However, they are quite different from each other. The primary difference between the two is in the resistance of their keys.

Semi-weighted keys come with a spring mechanism along with weights that are connected to each individual key. So a pianist is able to press down on the keys effortlessly. That said, when the keys rise back up, they feel quite sluggish. For this reason, various pianistic techniques like a glissando may not be easy to implement.

On the other hand, fully-weighted keys have more resistance because all the keys are equally weighted. Unlike semi-weighted keys, they spring back with a much stronger force that isn’t unpleasant to the ear.

Weighted keyboards are often chosen over semi-weighted keyboards because of their ability to offer a real piano feel. Plus, as stated above, they provide more endurance and strength than semi-weighted keyboards while playing the piano.

What Should I look for When Buying a Weighted Keyboard for a Beginner?

Both weighted and non-weighted keyboards are great for beginners, as they can be a remarkable instrument in helping them produce varied forms of music.

When looking for your first weighted keyboard, here are the two most important things to consider before you take the plunge.

1. The Number of Keys

Generally, keyboards come with 66, 72, or 88 keys. Beginners that may be interested in playing the classical piano must consider a keyboard with 88 keys, especially if they plan to play a traditional piano one day. For this purpose, a digital piano with 88 weighted keys will be a perfect choice.

Usually, beginners are often advised to start with a 66-key instrument and go on to use a 72-key instrument further down the line. Synthesizers are a popular keyboard type that has 66 keys. These instruments are built with unweighted keys, which are light and easy to use.

2. The Keyboard Brand

The keyboard brand you consider will depend on several factors. If you have no desire to become a serious musician and only want to experiment with the instrument, you will probably look for a keyboard that is available at a reasonable price. The cheapest keyboard brands usually have small keys that do not produce a high-quality sound and are prone to break easily.

Some of the best-weighted keyboard brands that happen to be affordable are Yamaha, Kurzweil, and Roland. They offer numerous key ranges, built-in speakers, and many sound options.

Advanced pianists can consider weighted keyboard brands like Korg or Williams Keyboards. Any advanced student or trained pianist looking for a full-sized digital piano with weighted keys can’t go wrong with Williams Keyboards.

You can get brand new as well as used weighted keyboards easily. While making the choice, keep their advantages and disadvantages in perspective. With a second-hand keyboard, you may get the instrument at a lower price, but it may lack the features that you can get in a brand new keyboard, or there’s even a chance that certain features might not perform to their best.

All in all, your purpose of having the piano will ultimately set your preference for either a used weighted keyboard or a new one.

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Where Can I Buy a Cheap Keyboard Piano?

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If you’ve been thinking of learning how to play the piano, the first place to start is to get your hands on a cheap keyboard.

While premium, high-quality pianos can be quite expensive, you can find cheaper alternatives to begin with. The best keyboards can set you back by around USD 500-1000, but if you’re a beginner, you can find a decent keyboard starting at around USD 100.

Where to Buy Your Piano From

Whether you choose to buy your piano online or offline, make sure you choose a trusted source. With a new piano, you’ll need to consider factors, such as the warranty of the instrument, etc. With a used one, you’ll need to look at the state of the instrument, reviews if you’re dealing with an online seller and so on.

What are the Best Websites for Finding a Deal on a Keyboard Piano or Digital Piano?

Amazon is all the rage now. It doesn’t matter what you’re looking for –  just type the word and you’ll find it. With prices starting as low at USD 100, you can find pretty much any piano in any size, style and brand on Amazon. With a little more investment, you can end up with a great keyboard piano that comes with important accessories, such as a stand, headset, etc.

If you want to invest in a specific keyboard (whether it’s a better brand or a larger instrument with more features) that you can’t seem to find on Amazon, you can opt to look for one on craigslist.

What are the Best Offline Places to Find a Cheap Keyboard Piano?

If you’re not big on online shopping, there are other places where you can look for a keyboard piano. From proper music stores with brand new instruments, to flea markets with secondhand devices, there are plenty of options to choose from.

If you’re looking for a cheaper keyboard, buying a brand new one is not the best option since it probably won’t fit your budget. Finding a decent used keyboard requires a little more time and effort: you’ll have to go to a number of thrift stores or a flea market and hunt for a keyboard that isn’t too worn out and doesn’t have any missing keys. You may have to visit the same thrift stores more than once in case you suddenly find what you’re looking for. But the effort is worth it since you can get a keyboard in great condition for a fraction of the real price.

What Factors Make a Keyboard Piano More Expensive?

The price of a keyboard is affected by numerous factors, such as the brand and the features the instrument offers. Let’s take a closer look at the specifications you need to consider when buying a keyboard piano:

The Keys

Although a full-sized keyboard has 88 keys, a keyboard with 61 keys will also suffice if you’re starting out. And yes, the number of keys on your keyboard will affect its price.

If you’re planning on learning the type of music that requires more complex keys, you’ll need to expand your budget a bit. For instance, you can’t try and learn classical music on a 61-key keyboard – for that you’ll need the keyboard with 88 keys.

The Material

Basic plastic keyboards start at around USD 100. Keyboards made with high-grade plastic will be costlier and those made of metal will be even more expensive. You need to consider how frequently you’ll be using your keyboard piano: are you in a rock band that plays at the local bar every night, or are you taking piano lessons once a week? A basic keyboard might be sufficient to help you kick-start your musical journey, but you’ll need something more durable if you plan on playing frequently.

The Presence of Additional Features

Not all keyboards are built the same. Some offer features such as touch response, where the pressure exerted on the key determines the type of sound it makes. The more features your keyboard has, the more expensive it is likely to be.

Other such features include weighted keys, which add some resistance to the keys to help you develop your own technique of playing. Keyboards without this feature are likely to be cheaper.

Bundles

If you’re buying your keyboard piano online, chances are you will find product bundles at discounted rates. Accessories such as piano stools, stands or a metronome can be purchased in a package with your piano, which will obviously cost a bit more than just buying the piano on its own.

What are Some Tips for Finding the Best Budget Keyboard for my Needs?

The first thing you need to consider is whether you want a standard or digital keyboard. The digital one will imitate the sounds of a real keyboard, but if you want to be a true pianist, you’ll need to learn how to play on the standard keyboard eventually.

Start by allotting a budget to yourself for your piano. If you’re on a tight budget, a secondhand keyboard is a better option (despite the obvious risk of hidden damage in the instrument) since you’ll have more room to look for a keyboard with more features. If you’re playing notes with higher octaves, you’ll need the keyboard with 88 keys, and having additional features such as touch response can be quite useful.

While buying a brand new keyboard with these features might be out of your budget, going on a thrift store/ flea market hunt, or even alerting your friends on social media can help you find a used instrument that fits your musical needs.

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Best Piano Keyboard for Beginners (2020): 24 Top Keyboards Ranked

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Piano Keyboard for Beginners

If you're like most beginner players, you might be a little overwhelmed by the number of piano keyboards to choose from. And you're probably wondering "What is the
best beginners piano keyboard?" 

We spent over 40 hours researching the best keyboards for new players, and in this comprehensive guide we break down the best 24 models, starting with our 6 best-of-the-best:

And don't forget to check out our runners-up list - all are popular and excellent value keyboards.

Let’s get started!

Quick Navigation

Best Beginner Piano Keyboards (Summary Table)
Best Piano Keyboards for Beginners: Reviews
How Many Keys should a Beginner’s Keyboard Have?
Commonly Asked Questions
Tips for Buying a Piano Keyboard for a Beginner
Features to Look For In a Beginner's Keyboard
Piano for Beginners, Lesson 1 || The Piano Keyboard
Conclusion

Best Beginner Piano Keyboards (Summary Table)

Best Piano Keyboards for Beginners: 
Reviews

The purpose of this article is to show you some of the best options for keyboard pianos for beginners. Whether you are the one who is learning, or you are buying a keyboard for another beginner in your life, all of these options are going to be excellent for learning on.

Today we are reviewing five of our favorite beginner keyboard pianos, so you can see the best features, as well as the pros and cons of each.

Best Beginner Keyboard (Overall): 
Yamaha EZ-220


Yamaha EZ-220 61-Lighted Key Portable Keyboard Package with Headphones, Stand and Power Supply

The Yamaha EZ-220 is an ideal beginner’s keyboard – it is well-priced, portable, and easy to use. The keyboard is designed to make both learning and playing a breeze.

The EZ-220 piano comes with a touch-sensitive keyboard with 61 lighted keys, 100 free songs, and a wireless connection to the Page Turner iPad app.  All of these basic features make the learning process super easy and fun.

A USB to HOST port allows you to directly plug in the keyboard to your computer and edit and share your recorded music. A wide variety of built-in-voices lets you play guitars, strings, brass, drums, synthesizers, etc. The portable piano keyboard comes with many other additional features, too – a piano stand, a power adapter, headphones, etc.

You might be surprised to find out that EZ-220 weighs only 10 pounds, which makes it easy to travel with. This lightweight instrument also takes up very little room, and hence, can be kept in a tight, enclosed space. The best feature of the Yamaha EZ-220 is the visual guides (Y.E.S) for beginners that help learners achieve mastery in playing the piano in no time.

PROS

  • Learning and playing the piano is easy and intuitive

  • The touch sensitivity of the keyboard makes the transition to an advanced level easy

  • The lighted keys make learning easy and fun

  • Weighs only 10 pounds, which adds to the portability of the keyboard

  • Comes with a music rest, headphones, an AC adapter, a songbook, and a keyboard stand

  • The Yamaha Education Suite (Y.E.S) system is integrated into the piano

  • 100 built-in songs and styles for piano lessons

  • 392 instrument sounds of brass, drums, strings, etc

cons

  • Since it is a piano for beginners, it consists of non-weighted keys

  • Lacks built-in recorder

  • Expensive

  • Lacks standard Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless connection

  • Apps are for iOS only

  • Not MIDI compatible

Summary

The Yamaha EZ-220 is undoubtedly the best lighted-key keyboard, especially for those just starting out on their musical journey – young children or complete beginners. The features like the lighted keys and the fingering guide help make piano lessons fun, simple, and interactive. The accompanying iPad app with demo songs makes the learning process all the more interesting.


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Best Budget Beginner Keyboard: 
Alesis Melody 61 


Alesis Melody 61 MKII | 61 Key Portable Keyboard with Built In Speakers, Headphones, Microphone, Piano Stand, Music Rest and Stool

The Alesis Melody is a 61-key keyboard that comes in a bundle package that includes everything you need to start learning and playing immediately. It even comes with a pair of headphones, so you can enjoy playing without any outside distractions (and no one will be able to hear you make mistakes while you're learning!).

This keyboard is priced at less than $120, and it is loaded with features that help to make learning how to play the piano fun and easy. There are 200 built-in sounds with layer and split modes, as well as 128 accompaniment rhythms.

This keyboard has 10 featured songs in three instruction modes, so you can learn while you are playing along with each song. There is also the ability to record your own music to play along with. This package also includes online music lessons from Skoove, and you will learn how to play in a way that is a lot easier than traditional piano lessons. You will get a free, three-month subscription to Skoove Premium, with full access to all of the courses, and there are new lessons offered each month.

PROS

  • Learn at your own pace with Scoove music lessons

  • USB connectivity to use MP3’s

  • Uses an AC adapter or batteries

cons

  • Keys may have a tendency to freeze

  • Poor sound quality at loud volumes

  • Some units have stopped working

Summary

The Alesis Melody 61 is the ideal keyboard for the aspiring beginner who really wants to learn how to play the piano. Yes, it only has 61 keys, but this is more than enough to start learning on, and when you are ready, you can move up to a full keyboard.

This unit comes with headphones so you can play undisturbed, and it even comes with a microphone so you can sing along while you are playing.


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Best Beginner Keyboard for Kids: 
RockJam 561 


RockJam 61-Key Electronic Keyboard SuperKit with Stand, Stool, Headphones & Power Supply

Learning to play the piano has never been easier, thanks to the RockJam 561. This keyboard is loaded with features that make learning how to play the piano loads of fun, and the learning tools make it easy to start playing your favorite songs pretty quickly. It has 100 keyboard sounds, 100 rhythms, and 50 demo songs, and you can learn on 61 keys. Yes, this is not a full keyboard, but it will do the trick, and once you master some techniques, you will be ready for a full, 88-key keyboard.

This keyboard has an LCD display that will show you which keys and chords to play for the demo songs, and it will even show you the pace at which you should be playing. The 30 JoyTunes Piano Maestro songs are a great selection, including classical, pop, and rock, and the Piano Maestro learning tool gives you real-time feedback so you always know what you are doing right, and wrong.

It works with a power supply that is included, and you can also pop in some batteries and take it anywhere.

PROS

  • Free learning tools included

  • Bundle package includes everything you need

  • Intuitive keyboard helps make learning to play easier

cons

  • Some units stop working for no reason

  • Some keys may stick and not work properly

  • LCD screen is pretty small

Summary

If you're looking for an inexpensive keyboard to learn on that has plenty of great learning features, the RockJam 561 is an option to consider. It has plenty of voices and rhythms, along with demo songs and free learning tools that include actual piano lessons. The bundle package includes everything you need to start learning and playing now.


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Best Beginner Keyboard for Adults: 
Yamaha PSR-E263


Yamaha Psr-E263 61-Key Portable Keyboard

The Yamaha PSR-E263 is considered an excellent instrument for beginners of all ages, but especially for aspiring adult pianists. Like the Yamaha EZ-220, the PSR-E263 is a 61 key portable instrument with a wide variety of sounds, features, and functions.

The product consists of 400 high-quality instrument voices and 100 styles to create and explore varied forms of music. It also comes with the Yamaha Education Suite that can be used with over 100 songs, making it perfect for aspiring pianists that are just starting out.

The Yamaha keyboard features a compact, lightweight design that allows you to take your instrument wherever you want to. It also boasts a battery-powered setup, which helps you set the piano up anywhere without having to plug it in.

Another terrific feature of this piano model is the duo mode that allows two pianists to play built-in songs together. The songbook that contains the built-in songs can be downloaded and is easily playable due to this feature. You can also play your favorite songs by directly connecting your music player to the instrument via cables. The onboard lessons (listening, timing, and waiting modes) help instill the necessary skills among those playing the piano daily.

PROS

  • A library of 400 instrument voices that allow budding pianists to play music from different genres

  • 130 music accompaniment styles

  • Compact, portable, and lightweight

  • Ultra-wide stereo provides excellent sound quality

  • It offers great connectivity options via add-ons like headphones, line output, line input, built-in speakers, etc.

cons

  • Non-weighted keys

  • Non-touch sensitive keys

  • No USB and MIDI ports on the keyboard

  • Loud accompaniment sounds

Summary

If you are new to music and want to experiment with the art of piano playing, you can always rely on the Yamaha PSR-E263. It is a quality product available at an affordable price. Hence, you can easily learn to play the piano without having to burn a hole in your pocket.


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Best Beginner Keyboard with 88 Weighted Keys: 
Alesis Recital Pro


Alesis Recital Pro | Digital Piano / Keyboard with 88 Hammer Action Keys, 12 Premium Voices, 20W Built in Speakers, Headphone Output & Powerful Educational Features

The Alesis Recital Pro is a full-fledged digital piano with 88 hammer-action keys and an adjustable touch response. Since it is a full-sized piano, the size of the instrument is quite noticeable. However, surprisingly, the piano has a light weight, weighing approximately 26 pounds – this is light as compared to other 88 key digital keyboards.

The Alesis Recital Pro has its own 20-watt, built-in sound system, which means that you won’t need to plug it into a stereo to listen to music. In addition, there are two speakers on both sides of the panels. With the help of a stereo headphone jack, you can plug in headphones and practice your piano lessons silently.

The Recital Pro consists of 12 built-in sounds with two kinds of variations of instruments such as the piano, organ, synth, harpsichord, acoustic bass, etc. The keyboard also allows pianists to customize music by combining two or more voices via the Layer Mode or tailor it through adjustable Modulation, Chorus, and Reverb.

PROS

  • It is affordable

  • Weighted, full-sized keys

  • Easy to use

  • Portable and lightweight

  • Comes with a small display on the top panel

  • Powered by batteries

cons

  • Can record only one song

  • The first 8 to 10 notes hardly sound like musical notes

  • Lacks a stand and sustain pedals

Summary

The Alesis Recital Pro is designed for both amateurs and experts. Its top elements include educational features, connectivity, and a well-built body that make the instrument worth investing in. All the 88 keys of Alesis Recital Pro are semi-weighted with the same length and width. Since the keys are light and easy to press, the keyboard is ideal for children.

With the help of its incredible educational feature – lesson mode – children can learn to play the piano quicker than ever. The wide range of connectivity options can allow beginners to perform useful tasks like connecting various sound systems to the keyboard, plug in headphones to practice private piano lessons, etc.


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Runners-Up

These keyboards are just below the cream-of-the-crop. But just because they didn't make our top list doesn't mean they're not excellent quality and outstanding value!

If you didn't find what you were looking for in a beginner's keyboard out of our top choices, browse the models below and you'll be sure to find one that's just right for your aspiring pianist!

Hamzer 61-Key Digital Music Piano Keyboard


Hamzer 61-Key Digital Music Piano Keyboard - Portable Electronic Musical Instrument - with Microphone

This keyboard from Hamzer offers an amazing and authentic range of sound. The built-in speakers give you plenty of volume, and they sound great, so you can enjoy the 255 timbres, 255 rhythms, and more. This Hamzer keyboard has an integrated learning system that has been created for beginner and intermediate piano players, and it is perfect for mastering finger control.

You can play single-fingered and fingered auto-bass chords, and have the ability to choose chord timbre, rhythms, etc. Other features include rhythm sync and fill-in, tempo adjustment, and a master volume control.

One of our favorite features on this keyboard is the record and playback feature. This is great to have when you are learning because you can record what you are playing and then be able to listen for any mistakes and easily correct them. This Hamzer keyboard is easy to use, and it is lightweight and portable.

You can take it anywhere, and there is no need to plug it in, because it works with six AA batteries (not included), and it also uses a standard 110-120 volt power adapter so it can be plugged into any wall outlet.

PROS

  • Record and playback feature

  • Loads of voices and rhythms

  • Easy to use and portable

cons

  • Some units have stopped working

  • Keys are not standard size as advertised

  • No actual piano sound

Summary

If you are looking for an inexpensive keyboard piano that has the features you need to be able to learn how to play, this model from Hamzer is an excellent choice. It lets you learn how to play quickly, using single and fingered chords, and there is even an auto-bass function. This may be a compact keyboard, but it is pretty large on sound.

This is a keyboard that anyone can use, and it is designed specifically for beginners.


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Casio CTK-3500


Casio CTK-3500 61-Key Touch Sensitive Portable Keyboard with Power Supply

The Casio CTK-3500 is a portable, touch-sensitive keyboard that offers a wide range of beginner-friendly features. It comes with several built-in instrument rhythms and voices that make the entire piano learning experience fun and interesting. One of the distinctive features of the Casio CTK-3500 is its ability to load any MIDI song via the Chordana Play app. The songs can be downloaded onto the keyboard’s onboard memory and will show musical notes on the LCD screen, helping you to learn to read and play music.  

The 61-key keyboard is portable, lightweight, and comes with the use of the battery power. With 6 AA batteries, you can play the piano anywhere you like. It further has 400 instrument voices and 100 built-in rhythms that help customize music the way you want. The compact keyboard also has 48 levels of polyphony, which helps create a great mix of sounds. Some other additional features include the step-up lesson system with 60 built-in songs and a dance music mode with 50 music dance styles. But that’s not all; the Casio CTK-3500 has other interesting features like transposing and tuning, a pitch bend wheel, a metronome, etc.

PROS

  • 61-key touch-sensitive, full-sized keyboard

  • Lightweight – 7.5 pounds approx.

  • The power adaptor makes it convenient to use the keyboard outdoors

  • 400 built-in instrument voices, 100 built-in rhythms, and 48 levels of polyphony

  • Load, save, and play your MIDI songs

  • Offers features like a dance music mode, a pitch  bend wheel, supports the Chordana Play app, has a built-in step-up lesson system, etc

cons

  • The keyboard is not weighted

  • The instrument sounds slightly mechanical

Summary

The Casio CTK-3500 is best known for its affordability, durability, and easy-to-use features. All of these characteristics (and more) make this keyboard one of the most ideal beginner’s pianos. With this piano, not only will you learn how to play the piano but how to play it using upgraded technologies of today’s time.


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Joy JK-63M-KIT


Joy 61 Standard Keys Keyboard with USB Music Player, Including Headphone, Stand, Stool & Power Supply (Jk-63M-Kit)

As the name implies, the Joy JK-63M-Kit offers a complete piano package with a keyboard, a keyboard stand, a keyboard stool, and headphones. It also boasts a unique audio-in feature that allows the keyboard to be used as an MP3 player. The Joy JK-63M is also portable, which makes it easy to set it up outside your home.

The compact keyboard has a wonderful design with 61 full-size keys that are easy to press and play, making it ideal for beginners. The keyboard also features 50 demonstration songs, 255 instrument voices, 255 rhythms, and 61 types of keyboard percussions which can help you customize and record music and share it with others.

PROS

  • The kit includes the stand, bench, headphones, and other accessories

  • Cost-effective

  • 255 instrument sounds, 255 rhythms, 50 demonstration songs, and 61 keyboard percussions that allow pianists to play with varied forms of music

  • Ability to change the volume, control the tempo, and add-in sync to improve music

  • Can record and listen to music as beginners play along

cons

  • Lacks weighted key action

  • Keys lack the touch sensitivity feature

  • Difficult to assemble the stand

Summary

With a full, efficient keyboard setup and the availability of demo songs, novice pianists can explore their creative side in music right away. With features like recording music and playback, they can keep track of their daily performance and progress.

Accessories like headphones and stools allow them to quietly practice the piano in a corner without disturbing anyone around. The keyboard can also be powered with an AC cord or 6 AA batteries, which makes it easier to play the instrument outdoors. Since it is lightweight, it can easily be taken and set up anywhere.


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Yamaha PSR-EW300


Yamaha Psr-Ew300 Sa 76-Key Portable Keyboard Bundle With Stand And Power Supply

This is a portable, lightweight keyboard with 76 touch-sensitive keys. It is a full-size keyboard that enables you to practice your finger positioning until you are ready to advance to the next stage. The keyboard is robust and durable as it is made up of strong plastic. The simple and compact design of the keyboard makes piano playing fun and stress-free. In addition to great design, the Yamaha PSR-EW300 features two 12-inch speakers and a two-watt amplifier that provides excellent sound. The piano comes with 500+ sounds and several effects (reverbs, chorus, equalizer, etc.) that help improve the overall quality of your music.

The PSR-EW300 enjoys many other interesting features like duo mode, dual mode, split mode, and a music library with 154 built-in songs. Beginners can also make the most of the Yamaha Education Suite, a series of lessons that assist them in practicing present songs and MIDI files at their own pace. A nine-step lesson is another feature that helps novice pianists learn the piano quicker than ever.

PROS

  • Cost-effective

  • Strong and robust

  • Compact and portable

  • Allows connectivity options such as USB-to-host connectivity

  • 574 instrument sounds, 154 built-in songs, and 165 accompaniment styles

  • Offers three modes features – duo mode, dual-mode, split mode

cons

  • The keys aren’t weighted

  • Accompaniment sounds are extremely loud

  • Since it features only 76 keys, you can’t play the full piano range

Summary

The Yamaha PSR-EW300 is a good beginner’s piano that will prepare you for more challenging and complex levels. Owing to its easy-to-use design, vast sound options, and other practicing features, this value-priced keyboard can help advance and improve your piano playing skills quicker than you think.


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Casio CTK-2550


Casio CTK2550 61 Key Portable Keyboard Premium Package

The CTK-2250 lightweight keyboard is the perfect option for any aspiring pianist, music creator, or keyboard player. With 61 keys, built-in speakers, and the step-up lesson feature, the portable keyboard enables the learner to learn and play good music faster than they can imagine.

The beginner-friendly instrument offers 400 tones, 100 rhythms, 60 built-in songs, and a 48-note polyphony that help pianists experiment with diverse musical styles. When playing the keyboard, they will have tons of sound options that will allow them to produce more creative tunes. However, the strongest point of this keyboard model is its price. You won’t find any other keyboard as inexpensive as this one. In other words, the CTK-22550 keyboard is the best low-risk option for those just beginning their musical journey.

PROS

  • Affordable

  • Hundreds of tones to play – 400 tones, 100 rhythms, 60 song back tunes, 50 dance music rhythms

  • Supports the Chordana Play App

  • Has a touch response

  • Comes with easy-to-press piano keys

cons

  • Keys are unweighted

  • Sound quality is mediocre

  • Not a full-sized piano

Summary

Since the CTK-2250 is a low-priced piano, its features tend to be limited too. Unlike other pianos for beginners, the CTK-2250 doesn’t produce high-quality sounds even though it offers a vast range of sound options. If you can move past this challenge and only focus on improving your piano playing abilities, this compact keyboard is a wise choice. That being said, once you become proficient in playing the piano, you will definitely need a model that is much more advanced.


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Casio LK-265


Casio LK-265 61-Key Lighted Portable Touch Sensitive Keyboard with Power Supply

One of the most distinguishing features of the Casio LK-265 keyboard is its Dance Music Mode that allows you to produce and remix dance music. You get to choose from 50 music styles and instrument variations. You can also add different effects (gate, filter, flanger, low-fi, etc.) into the music to make it hipper.

The keyboard also features lighted keys that are useful for beginners when it comes to guiding them on how to play songs. The best part is that you get to choose and play songs from an extensive library of music. You can also transfer MIDI songs to your keyboard via the right cables. This solid keyboard allows you to play music anywhere, no matter where you are!

This is achieved via battery power. With the help of the step-up lessons, touch-sensitive keys, and a wide variety of tones and rhythms, novice pianists will find playing the piano easy and super fun.

PROS

  • 400 tones and 150 rhythms

  • Built-in speakers and headphones allow you to play the piano quietly

  • Easy and natural to play the piano due to the touch-sensitivity keys

  • Compact and lightweight

  • The piano can be played both indoors and outdoors

  • Produces high-quality sound due to two in-built speakers

cons

  • The LCD screen is not big enough and has no light

  • Semi-weighted keys

Summary

The Casio LK-265 keyboard is one of the most popular keyboards on the market, and that’s mainly due to its awesome features. This keyboard model features lighted and fluted keys which make it easy for novice pianists to play the piano. 

Owing to its Dance Music Mode, the keyboard offers a wide range of sounds – 400 tones, 50 inbuilt songs, 100 rhythms, and 48 degrees of polyphony. One feature that makes this keyboard an ideal pick for any beginner out there is its step-up lesson feature. It allows you to learn how to play different songs and become a pro at it!


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​Roland GO: KEYS Music Creation Keyboard


Roland GO:KEYS 61-key Music, Creation Keyboard with Integrated Bluetooth Speakers (GO-61K)

The Roland GO: KEYS Music Creation Keyboard allows the creation of music through its easy-to-use keyboard. Even if you don’t have any prior musical experience, you can still create songs with the 61 keys of this innovative keyboard model.

You will have over 500 instrument sounds to play with, record your music, and track your progress as you grow. The keyboard also offers great connectivity options; for example, its Bluetooth connectivity for audio and MIDI allows you to connect your keyboard with your tablet or smartphone and share music files.

Its innovative function, which is the Loop Mix function, can help you produce melodic songs in no time. Portable and battery-powered, GO: KEY allows you to enjoy your musical journey wherever you go.

PROS

  • Wirelessly connects the keyboard with your electronic gadgets via Bluetooth

  • Offers a huge library of music

  • Simple and easy-to-use keyboard

  • Compact and lightweight design

  • Play and create music anywhere with the help of six AA batteries that power the keyboard

cons

  • Poor-quality sound

Summary

Beginners can rely on the Roland GO: KEYS Music Creation Keyboard to produce advanced music and engage in songwriting. The most setting-apart feature of this keyboard model is undoubtedly the Loop Mix function that helps create original songs in real-time. Add in effects of the bass, drums, and other instruments to take your jam to a whole new level. With over 500 pro-quality sounds, your songs will sound like they’re being played by a professional pianist in no time.

GO: KEYS is the perfect companion for ScratchX – a free educational program language. With the use of the GO: KEYS Scratch Extension, kids can learn to play the piano more effectively and produce their own stories and games with original music.


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​Yamaha P​​SR-E363


Yamaha PSR-E-363 61-Key Touch Sensitive Portable Keyboard

As compared to any other entry-level keyboard, the Yamaha PSR-E-363 has a wide variety of accompaniment styles, instrument voices, and music customization effects. In addition, it consists of touch-sensitive keys that make the playing part easy and fun.

Since the instrument doesn’t have weighted keys, it is ideal for older beginners. Weighted keys are an important feature of a keyboard for any beginner as they guide them with regards to the amount of pressure needed to move the keys and produce the right sound.

Since the Yamaha PSR-E-363 lacks weighted keys, it may not be the best option for those just experimenting in the musical field. This keyboard model also consists of a recording feature and the ability to playback songs. This helps you compose and share your favorite music and assess your overall progress over time. The Yamaha Education System provides plenty of music lessons that let you learn the piano effectively.

PROS

  • Portable and lightweight

  • Touch-sensitive keys

  • The LCD provides guidance with the onboard lessons

  • A vast onboard song library

  • Helps customize harmony, reverb, chorus, etc

  • Comes with connectivity options

  • AWM stereo sampling offers great piano sounds

  • Built-in music with 235 present song styles

cons

  • Non-weighted keys

  • Doesn’t support the Yamaha Piano Controller App

  • Lacks a power adapter

Summary

The Yamaha PSR-E-363 keyboard makes for an excellent option for those who are looking to transition from their basic piano level to a slightly more advanced level. Non-weighted keys, touch-sensitive keyboards, advanced connections, and sound options can help you become an advanced musician if you keep practicing with this keyboard.


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Yamaha YPT-360


Yamaha Ypt360 61-Key Touch-Sensitive Portable Keyboard With Power Adapter (Amazon-Exclusive)

The Yamaha YPT-360 comes with a set of versatile functions and a touch-sensitive keyboard action, making it a go-to instrument for beginners. The instrument produces high-quality sound, whether you play the music loudly or softly. Depending on your touch, you can create sounds exactly the way you want.

The Yamaha YPT-360 offers a vast music library of 574 instrument voices which lets you enjoy the music of any genre you want. The piano also supports Keys to Success and various other onboard lessons that Yamaha believes in to facilitate you in playing the piano more efficiently. With the help of step-by-step lessons, you can easily learn to play full-length songs in no time. You can further build your skills through the “Touch Tutor.”  

The Yamaha YPT-360 also allows you to play the piano with a partner via its duo mode. It also allows you to easily connect your portable devices to the keyboard, letting you transfer your favorite songs, listen to them while playing, and record them for further personalization. In this way, you not only enjoy playing the piano but also pick up how to create music too.

PROS

  • Compact and portable

  • A touch-sensitive keyboard

  • Offers various onboard educational tools for developing your piano skills

  • An LCD display for easy navigation through sounds and styles of music

cons

  • Slightly difficult to use; may require some practice to get used to

  • A little expensive

Summary

The Yamaha YPT-360 offers a wide range of voices with 574 sound effects, 165 accompaniment styles, and 150 arpeggio styles. This is one of the most versatile keyboards on the list. It comes with 61 touch-sensitive keys with ideal levels for pressure tension; hence, it is perfect for beginners.


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Yamaha PSR-EW410


Yamaha PSR-EW410 76-Key Portable Keyboard

The Yamaha PSR-EW410 is the perfect keyboard for beginners that want to play all sorts of music. With its durable onboard speakers, Live Control Knobs, Groove Creator, Quick Sampling, and USB audio recorder, creating music can be fun and simple. The lightweight and portable design of the keyboard enables you to carry it around with ease.

This keyboard model comes with a complete library of 758 instrument voices with the 48-note polyphony and 235 auto-accompaniment styles, which allow you to experiment with all the styles and genres of music. With the direct and simple connectivity feature, you can directly plug in your smartphones or tablets to the keyboard. This feature lets you share your own creations with others or transfer popular songs to the keyboard and play them on the piano.  

PROS

  • Reasonable price

  • Hundreds of instrument voices, music styles, and effects

  • Supports the Visual Performer app that helps show graphics on the iPad/iPhone

  • Has interesting features for music creation like Quick Sampler, Track Control, Groove Creator, Melody Suppressor, and the Live Control Knobs

cons

  • It isn’t a high-end workstation

Summary

The Yamaha PSR-EW410 is a great beginner’s or intermediate piano, consisting of both educational and advanced features. One of the greatest highlights of this keyboard is its professional features like Groove Creator, Control Knob, Quick Sampling, etc. These features help create and improve music in unique ways. This keyboard model is like its 61-keyed PSR-E counterpart, except that it has 76 keys and lots of innovative features. The keyboard also supports many apps; one of them is the Visual Performer, which plays out funky graphics on your iPad/iPhone when you play the keyboard.


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Casio WK-6600


Casio WK6600 76 Key Workstation Keyboard with Power Supply

The Casio WK-6600 is ideally used by beginners that are always on the go. This highly portable piano features 76 keys and an innovative workstation that makes it a great investment for an incredibly affordable price. The keyboard helps create terrific music with its 700 built-in songs, 210 accompaniment styles, and the ability to customize music via the “Tone and Rhythm Editor.”

 Unlike many digital workstations, the pre-recorded instrument sounds of the WK-6600 are of excellent quality. Thus, it helps mix in amazing instrument voices into your creation and produce out-of-this-world music. Some other features that can add value to your music include Reverb, Auto Pan, Chorus, Phaser, Tremolo, Enhancer, Reflection, Delay, Compressor, and lots more. With an easy-to-read display and well-arranged buttons, playing this piano is as easy as it gets.

The instrument truly has the ability to produce music in a pro-style. With the aid of a 16 track sequencer and hundreds of DSP (Digital Signal Processor) effects, you can personalize your music as you want. In simpler words, the Casio WK-6600 allows you to unlock your creativity to infinity and beyond!

PROS

  • Budget-friendly keyboard

  • Highly portable

  • Offers seamless touch

  • Touch responsive

  • Produces rich sound via its 2-way stereo speakers and a 6W amplifier

  • Comes with over 100 Digital Signal Processor effects, 10 Reverb settings, 5 Chorus settings, several layer effects, and other customizing options

cons

  • May not be the best option for beginners

  • Unweighted keys

Summary

Beginners that have a strong will and passion for developing their skills can consider investing in the Casio WK-6600 as it comes with both basic and intermediate features. Since it has many advanced features, beginners may find it slightly hard to get used to them. However, daily practicing and experimenting can help them understand the overall functioning of the Casio WK-6600.


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Yamaha P-45


Yamaha P45, 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano (P45B)

The Yamaha P-45 is the latest digital piano that replaces the previous P-35 keyboard model. This is an 88-key weighted digital piano that offers interesting features to its customers like a USB connector, 64-note polyphony, Dual Mode, a wave memory stereo sampling, and lots more. Apart from these features, what further contribute to the value of this wonderful instrument are the piano’s sleek design, durability, and portability.

The keyboard’s two 6W speakers, polyphony note, and the AWM stereo sampling system play a crucial role in uplifting the overall sound quality. To enhance your music, you will have 10 demo songs, 10 present keyboard tones, and 10 instrument sounds. The keyboard model also comes with headphones that can easily be connected to the device.

In this way, music can be played and enjoyed in silence without disturbing others. The P45 boasts additional features such as the “Transpose tuning,” which is extremely useful for amateurs out there. With the help of this feature, you can improve the pitch of your keyboard and play in a variety of keys.  

PROS

  • One of the best beginner’s keyboard

  • Affordable

  • Produces high-quality sound

  • Consists of 88 fully-weighted keys and the AWM sampling technology

  • Lightweight and portable

  • An in-built USB port

  • Comes with a sustain pedal that allows dampers to move freely

cons

  • Lacks recording and playback function

  • Has no MIDI port

Summary

This piano model is ideal for beginners on a shoestring budget. The keyboard offers the inbuilt music sounds, accompaniments, and metronome, which facilitate the art of music-making. Although the Yamaha P45 doesn’t feature any element for recording, it does possess the USB connector; which comes in handy when recording and editing music.


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Casio WK-245


Casio WK-245 76-Key Touch Sensitive Keyboard with Power Supply

This is a touch-sensitive model with 76 keys, 32 registration memory, 180 rhythms, and 152 tones. Those of you wanting to improve their volume according to the key pressure will find the Casio WK-245 worthy of your investment. It also comes with built-in speakers and headphones. The addition of the headphones means that you can practice the piano without disturbing those around you.

The most apparent feature of this keyboard model is its design – strong and nicely-built. The large and lit LCD screen showcases music notations which help a piano player accurately play the notes of the song they’re practicing. Unlike many digital pianos, the Casio WK-245 comes in a plethora of colors; hence, you won’t have to settle for one in a dull, boring color.

What good is a piano that doesn’t produce great sound? The best part about this ultra-cool keyboard is its enhanced sound effects that allow you to make melodious music. You can adjust the volume and pitch by choosing your preferred melody level. The piano can easily be connected to a PC, Mac, or iPad/ iPhone through the in-built USB MIDI port and cables. The connectivity feature allows you to send music files from your computer to your keyboard and vice versa and improve their quality.

PROS

  • Professionally built

  • Comes with a power adapter so the keyboard can be played anywhere

  • Doesn’t take up a lot of space

  • Offers numerous tones, rhythms, and sound effects to improve a beginner’s piano playing efforts

cons

  • The manual is too long to read

  • You have to press a key to select a tone rather than a dial, which is less convenient

Summary

The Casio WK245 keyboard is a model that gives you value for your money. It offers outstanding piano features at an affordable price. Plus, it guarantees that you won’t need to consider a replacement anytime soon.


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Alesis Recital


Alesis Recital 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano with Full-Size Semi-Weighted Keys and Power Supply, Stand, Bench, and Sustain Pedal

The Alesis Recital keyboard is a wonderful entry-level keyboard for all the beginners out there. It is an 88-key keyboard, with all the keys being full-sized. Unfortunately, they are semi-weighted in nature, which means that these keys lack the ease and comfort of fully-weighted keys. That being said, the semi-weighted keys make the piano somewhat convenient to use.  

The Alesis Recital model comes with a wide range of sound effects (chorus, reverb, etc.) and hundreds of built-in sounds, layers, and split functions that allow you to dress up your music as you want. In addition, there is an extensive learning mode that is useful for novice pianists. You can take your learning to another level by subscribing to Skoove Premium. With several connectivity options such as a USB to MIDI interface, a headphone jack, and a sustain pedal jack, you can connect your keyboard to a computer, MAC, laptop, or tablet and explore the world of connectivity.

PROS

  • Natural and well-balanced piano sounds

  • Well-thought-out learning mode

  • Amazing built-in sounds

  • A velocity-sensitive keyboard

  • Portable and lightweight and can operate on batteries wherever you are

  • High-quality in-built speakers

cons

  • Exceedingly sensitive keys with poor hammer action

  • Offers basic features

Summary

The Alesis Recital keyboard is an excellent choice for beginners as it has the most beneficial feature for them – the lesson mode. Turn on this mode to learn the art of music-making from scratch. With a terrific digital audio workstation, you will get to create and improvise your tracks. Although the Alesis Recital keyboard poses certain limitations of its own, it is all right for amateurs. Plus, it is a highly affordable option that any budget-conscious customer can consider without having to worry about breaking the bank.


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RockJam 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano


RockJam 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano with Full-Size Semi-Weighted Keys, Power Supply, Simply Piano App Content & Key Note Stickers

As the name suggests, the RockJam 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano has 88 full-sized keys. All the keys are semi-weighted and velocity-sensitive, immediately responding to your touch and are adaptable to suit your playing style. Each side of the keyboard boasts a 12-watt speaker that delivers excellent sound quality. Therefore, it is best for small musical performances.

Modern and sleek in design, the RockJam 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano is full of contemporary piano features such as various instrument voices, different demo songs, and metronome settings. The split mode, lesson mode, metronome functions, reverb, and chorus functions speak volumes about the versatility of the keyboard.

The outstanding component of this piano is the sheet music/iPad stand which assists in playing, practicing, and learning music. The device is removable, so it can easily be detached from the instrument and can be stored away in a bag, cabinet, or cupboard. The piano supports the number one piano learning app – the Simply Piano Education app - which facilitates the learning of free songs, including classical, pop, and rock, in no time.

PROS

  • 88 full-sized keys

  • Over 100 tones and rhythms

  • Adjustable keyboard stand and sheet music

cons

  • Lacks fully-weighted keys

Summary

With impressive features like the lesson mode, the RockJam 88-key digital piano is perfect for beginners. Music composers will find this instrument more fascinating as it offers plenty of sound options with over 10 instrument voices, 10 demo songs, and 10 rhythm tones, etc.


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Yamaha P71


Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano With Sustain Pedal And Power Supply (Amazon-Exclusive)

The Yamaha P71 is a fully-weighted, portable keyboard, which means that its keys are smooth to the touch and can be pressed easily. Since they are fully-weighted, you can expect them to be slightly heavy. However, they provide the perfect resistance when the pianist is playing the piano. A well-built and compact piano doesn’t qualify as an ideal piano; it needs to have rich quality sound, and luckily, the Yamaha P71 fits the bill.

In addition to providing terrific sound quality, the instrument offers 10 distinctive instrument sounds (vibraphones, electric pianos, pipe organs, and harpsichords) that can enhance your piano playing experience. The P71 also offers many connectivity options (a proper USB port, a headphone jack, an amplifier, speakers, etc.) to improve and enhance the sound system of the keyboard. Owing to the USB port, integrating the sounds of the keyboard with music software will be pretty simple too.  

PROS

  • Fully-weighted keys allow you to play the keyboard easily

  • Compact and durable

  • Easy to play, practice, and learn

  • Excellent connectivity options such as a USB MIDI port

  • Budget-friendly price

  • Offers the dual mode in which two pianists can simultaneously play the keyboard

cons

  • No LED screen which makes it difficult to play the piano

  • The headphone jack is situated at the rear of the piano, which is quite inconvenient

  • The sustain pedals aren’t durable

Summary

If you are looking for an affordable keyboard with high-quality sound and performance, the Yamaha P71 is a wise choice. At a good price, you will get a power connector and sheet holder too. Thus, you can get going without having to invest in piano accessories separately.  


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Yamaha P1​​25


Yamaha P125 88 Weighted Key Digital Piano Bundle with Knox Double X Stand, Knox Large Bench and Sustain Pedal

The Yamaha P125 is the replacement of the P115 as the latest model has innovative features that the P115 lacked. To begin with, the design of the keyboard model is compact and convenient. Owing to its high portability factor, the keyboard can easily be carried around.

The piano keyboard is the Graded Hammer Standard 88-key variety, which helps create traditional music like that of an acoustic piano. Some of the jaw-dropping features of this piano are the Smart Pianist App, bass and drum tracks, and the new “Table EQ.” Although this piano lacks a furniture stand, it can still be placed on a desk/table. The “Table EQ” feature allows pianists to play the keyboard while keeping it on a table.

PROS

  • Produces sound like a traditional piano

  • Offers 20 unique rhythms, 50 built-in songs, and 192 polyphony

  • Compatible with the Smart Pianist App

  • Excellent speaker system

cons

  • Lacks variety in sound effects

  • Doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity

Summary

The Yamaha P125 is prized for its super-cool features that its counterpart didn’t have. It is an amazing instrument with amazing features and functions that allows kids to learn the piano with ease. That said, the piano still needs improvement in sound features; otherwise, the keyboard is a decent investment.


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​Yamaha YDP184R


Yamaha YDP184R Arius Series Console Digital Piano with Bench, Dark Rosewood

The Yamaha YDP184R is classical upright piano which is great to fill up space and decorate the interior of your house. It comes with a foldable music rest that folds in a backward direction, creating a neat and clean frame. This fold rest is wide enough to accommodate an A4 size paper and a wide songbook. 

In addition, the piano also comes with the three pedals, a music book, a bench, and a pair of high-quality headphones.

The piano features a large LCD player on the left side and the power button and the volume slider on the right side. The keyboard has 88 plastic keys and produces rich, dynamic sounds.

PROS

  • Easy to use

  • Has terrific features -  duo mode, LCD screen, key-off samples, 1/8 AUX Input, the stereophonic optimizer

  • Produces high-quality sounds

cons

  • Expensive

  • Isn’t compact or portable

  • Has fewer features as compared to other high-end digital pianos

Summary

The Yamaha YDP184R is not only ideal for beginners but intermediate pianists too.  Although it is a great upgrade from its predecessor, the Yamaha 181, this keyboard model still has a long way to go. The impressive design and dynamic sound engine are the two most admired features of this keyboard model. In these two regards, a beginner won’t feel let down.


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​Yamaha YDP-143


Yamaha YDP143B Arius Series Console Digital Piano with Bench, Black Walnut

The Yamaha YDP-143 is yet another traditional piano set that is often bought as a decorative item for a house. The keyboard comes with a classic sliding cover that keeps it from getting dirty and dusty.

Surprisingly, the Yamaha YDP-143 is easier to move as compared to an acoustic piano. The keyboard comprises of 88 fully-weighted keys that feel like classic piano keys. Like most outstanding digital pianos, the Yamaha YDP-143 has amazing sound quality, connectivity options, and a duo mode.

PROS

  • Durable and reliable

  • Comes with a graded hammer-action keyboard

  • It offers features like 192-note polyphony, 2-track MIDI recorder, 50 present piano songs, and lesson functions.

cons

  • Lacks built-in rhythms

  • Limited sound effects

  • Doesn’t have basic piano elements like key-off samples, string resonance, etc

Summary

The Yamaha YDP-143 is one of those pianos that are both physically and functionally attractive. It boasts a stunning color, finishing, and offers optimal sound quality and tones at the same time. Beginners looking for a piano that serves both a decorative and functional purpose must consider investing in the Yamaha YDP-143.


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How Many Keys should a Beginner’s Keyboard Have?

How Many Keys should a Beginner’s Keyboard Have?

There are a couple of schools of thought on this question. Some people say that the only way to learn how to play the piano is to use a keyboard that has 88 full-sized keys, because this is the best way to learn how to play the entire keyboard. Those on this side of the fence believe that using a keyboard with fewer keys is not going to prepare students for the real thing.

On the other hand, there are those who say that it is actually better to learn how to play the piano on a keyboard with fewer keys. Often, a 61-key keyboard is recommended, because it is a bit less overwhelming for the beginner. But, once you become proficient at playing the keyboard, you are going to want to play more complicated pieces, so you will eventually need to upgrade to a full-size keyboard. This is something that you can worry about later on.

When you come right down to it, most songs that you will likely want to play can be played on a 61-key keyboard, so you won’t have to upgrade for some time. You can get a decent quality, 61-key keyboard for as little as $40, which is great for the beginner who isn’t sure if the piano is going to be the right instrument for them. You can always upgrade once you start to hone your skills and decide that you want to continue playing.

Another option is a 76-key keyboard, which will let you play pretty much anything that is aimed at beginner and intermediate students. These are not as common as 61 or 88-key keyboards, costing more than a 61-key instrument and less than an 88-key keyboard. They are also more cumbersome than the 61-key models, so it is not going to be as portable.

Commonly Asked Questions

What Should You Look for When Buying a Beginner Piano Keyboard?

There are a few key things that you’ll need in a beginner keyboard to get off on the right foot…

Think of it this way: it’s like taking up a new sport, like basketball. While you wouldn’t spend a fortune on basketball sneakers before you knew that you really enjoyed playing, you also wouldn’t go out onto the court in a pair of cheap flip-flops! The same idea applies to buying your first piano keyboard.

Before you buy your first keyboard, you should think about:

Where you want to put it. Do you have a lot of space, or limited space, to put the keyboard?

Whether you want to move it around. Will you occasionally be taking it to piano class or a friend’s house, or will it stay put in your home?

Once you know that, you’ll know whether you should get a piano keyboard (which tend to be lighter and more portable) or a digital piano (which tend to be heavier, and are meant to stay in one place).

According to Sara Mullett, an experienced piano teacher who works a lot with beginners, once you’ve decided on the two points above, you should make sure you choose a keyboard that has:

  • Full-size Keys. It’s important that learners get used to the spacing on full size keys so that they can move between different instruments at any point.

  • Weighted Keys. Weighted keys are important to help to develop finger strength and the correct technique. Weighted keys are a feature on keyboards where keys give a resistance as you press it down, as well as spring back up, just like on a traditional piano.

  • Keyboard Stand. For most people, a keyboard or digital piano should be put on an adjustable stand. This gives learners space to put their legs as well as allowing the piano keyboard to be set to the correct height to be able to learn the right technique.

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    Music stand (if you’re planning on learning to read music). Having music anywhere other than on a stand in front of your eyes could hurt your posture and will make learning to read music much more difficult!

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    Not too many sounds and effects. While making a lot of different sounds and having the ability to add and tweak effects can be fun, it can also be confusing to a beginner.At first, the most important thing is for it to be easy to get a clear sound from the keyboard.

How Many Keys Should a Beginner Keyboard Have? Are 61 Keys Enough?

If you want to learn to play the piano, you should buy a beginner keyboard with a minimum of 61 keys. Beginner keyboards typically come with 61 keys, while full size keyboards have 88 keys and 7 octaves.

Some piano instructors argue that 61 keys aren’t enough, especially if you want to learn to play classical music. Without 88 full size keys it’s hard to learn the scale of the instrument, you might not be able to play pieces properly, and you may struggle to adapt to playing on other keyboards or pianos.

However, 88-key keyboards are more expensive and for some players might be unnecessary. That’s why other instructors argue that 61 keys are fine for beginners, as long as the keys are touch-sensitive. We support that view!

What are the best brands for beginner keyboards?

There are many brands around for keyboards, but some are better than others in terms of their suitability for beginners.

Yamaha is a well-known instrument manufacturer and whilst they do produce some keyboards which aren`t suitable, they also produce some which fit all of the criteria above. Yamaha are a reliable brand and it is easy to get repairs and accessories to their products.

Casio also have a good range of suitable keyboards, but mostly with only 61 keys – fine for a complete beginner but will need to be replaced soon.

There are a handful of excellent starter keyboards sold exclusively on Amazon. As you would expect, these are excellent for the money. As one example, the brand Alesis has an excellent 88-key beginner keyboard at a very competitive price.

Tips for Buying a Piano Keyboard for a Beginner

With so many different keyboards available, finding the right one for you can seem like a pretty daunting task. There are so many things that you need to take into consideration when purchasing a keyboard piano to learn on.

The first thing you need to do is ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is your budget?

  • Who will be using it?

  • What time of day will it be used?

  • Where will it be used the most?

  • Will it be moved around from place to place?

You will also need to consider the features that you want, including voices (instrument sounds), rhythms, drum beats, and more. Let’s take a look at some of the best tips for buying a keyboard for a beginning piano player.

Remember, for a beginner model, it is best to just keep things simple. You can upgrade to a better model with more features later on.

Features to Look For In a Beginner's Keyboard

Headphone jack

Make sure your keyboard has a headphone jack. You need this in order to be able to play without being disturbed by outside noises. Also, it will allow you to play quietly so you will not disturb anyone while you are learning and practicing.

on-board speakers

Look for a model that has on-board speakers so you don’t have to worry about needing to plug into an amplifier to hear what you are playing.

Many of the cheaper models do not have on-board speakers, but there are budget models with pretty decent speakers available.

keys

Look for a model that has at least 61 keys. If the keyboard is for a young child, you can get away with even fewer keys, as they should start out on something small that is not going to be too overwhelming. The keys should be weighted, so they have the feel of those on a real piano.

accessories

Often, you can get some pretty great bundle package deals that will give you the keyboard and all of the necessary accessories. These include a stand, piano bench, sustain pedal, dust cover, learning tools, and more.

usb connectivity

Most of today’s keyboards, even the least expensive, have USB connectivity. This allows you to be able to connect your computer or other devices so you can download various learning apps, music, and more.

effects & other features

There are certain effects that you are going to want, including various instrument sounds, sustain, chorus, reverb, etc. You will also want to have certain features, including a record and playback option. Keep in mind that the more features a keyboard has, the more expensive it will likely be, and you probably won’t need that many features anyway.

portability

If you're planning on taking your keyboard outside of the home, such as to piano lessons, you need to make sure that you get a model that is lightweight and portable. This is another reason why many people recommend a 61-key keyboard, because they are easy to lug around.

budget

Finally, you need to consider your budget. You can pay as little as $40 for a decent keyboard, and as much as thousands for professional stage keyboards.

Of course, at this point in time, you are probably only looking for something inexpensive to learn and practice on, so avoid looking at models that you can’t really afford.

Piano for Beginners, Lesson 1 || The Piano Keyboard

Conclusion

As you can see from the above reviews, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get a decent quality keyboard to learn on. These keyboards have plenty of features to make it easy to learn how to play the piano, and have loads of fun doing it.

They are great for beginners of all ages, including young children, particularly because they are small, lightweight, and portable. No matter which of these keyboards you choose, you can’t really go wrong.


Casio PX-350 Review (2020)


Yamaha P71 Review (2020): Best 88-Key Beginner Keyboard?

How to Teach Piano to a Toddler

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Are you considering piano lessons for your kids? If yes, expect to see many significant changes in your children as they move ahead on their musical journey!

Research shows that children involved in musical activities do well at school and other extracurricular activities. They become more social, disciplined, and confident. There are, indeed, several great benefits to learning the piano; but you must know the ropes to get your child started with their piano lessons. 

While choosing the best keyboard for kids is the first important step, this article will serve as the perfect guide for kids beginning to learn piano. So, let’s get started!

When to Start Piano Lessons for Toddlers

The right age to start piano lessons varies with each child. There is no perfect age when it comes to teaching children how to play the piano. Kids as young as four years can show an interest in the piano; and instead of waiting for “the right time,” it is advised to allow them to explore and learn on their own. Of course, they won’t respond to the learning procedure in the same way that adults do, and you mustn’t expect them to, either. Instead, you must encourage them to play the piano in their own unique way. 

The best time to get your children enrolled in music lessons is between the ages of five to eight years old. If you put your children in music lessons before this age, it will be futile. Kids below the age of five tend to have short attention spans, so the lessons may not be as effective as you may hope. 

What are the Benefits of Teaching a Toddler to Play the Piano?

As hinted above, teaching piano to a toddler has numerous advantages. Being a wonderful instrument, pianos can offer a soothing experience to your kids. If your kids are going through some sort of emotional turmoil, pianos can serve as an amazing outlet. 

Playing the piano requires a high level of concentration as children are supposed to stay focused to interpret a note and translate it through their hands/fingers. This kind of practice improves the creative and critical thinking of kids. These skills can also come in handy in the latter part of a child’s development phase. 

Research shows that children who have learned to play piano find picking up other instruments easy in comparison. The reason for this is that to be able to play the piano well, a child needs to understand what notes are, how they blend with each other, what notes make up specific chords, and how to use their hands separately to play the notes and chords of a piece of music. 

As a comparison, learning the guitar is not as complicated. One only needs to learn the chords, different strumming patterns, and how to switch between chords to play the guitar in the most basic way.

The most apparent benefit of learning how to play the piano is an improvement in the personality of your children. They grow up to be more polite, refined, and sophisticated. This gives kids an overall great persona and temperament. Since learning the piano is not easy, others will see young pianists as smart and confident children. 

Playing the piano demands good hand-eye coordination. Daily piano practice helps children develop improved coordination among different body parts (especially between the eyes and the hands) – a skill in its own right. 

When learning to play the piano, kids are instilled with the ability to face their problems heads on. They develop patience and problem-solving skills – two traits that help them tackle further challenges in life with ease and confidence. 

How to Get a Toddler Interested in the Piano?

The first step to getting your kids interested in the piano is having a piano in your home. Having access to the piano will give your toddler a chance to play or practice it on a daily basis. Your children may fumble, but you must support them even when they make mistakes. 

Praise them when they do a good job as this will keep them motivated to play more. You can also give your kids a treat like a chocolate bar or ice cream after every lesson to keep them committed to this exciting journey. 

A creative way to get your children to start liking the piano is by making them listen to piano music. Buy CDs by professional artists that will motivate your child to develop this skill. Being a parent, you should also listen to piano music, as what you do will inspire your children to do the same. 

If your kids don’t listen to you, you can consider getting a teacher that is skilled in working with young children. Make sure that the teacher you hire is warm and friendly. They must not expect your kid to patiently sit through the entire piano lesson. This mentality might harm any interest that your toddler may have in playing the piano. The piano lessons for your younger one should be as simple as piano games, physical activities, and teaching keyboard timing. 

How Long Should Piano Lessons Be?

The daily piano sessions depend on the kid’s age. Generally, three to four-year-olds should practice the piano for at least 10 minutes daily. Children of ages 5 or 6 should extend their sessions to 15 minutes. The most important thing to keep in mind is that your toddler’s hands must be on the keys six days a week.

 If the child is tired of the regular piano curriculum, jazz it up to keep your child’s interest intact. It is also important to give your kid a break so that they come back with renewed interest and enthusiasm. 

Tips for Teaching Piano to a Toddler

Research shows that music lessons in early childhood pave the way for brain growth and development. It also gives a head start to creativity and self-expression. To ensure that your child successfully takes piano lessons and grows and advances as a pianist, follow a set of teaching tactics like the ones mentioned below. 

  • Take Piano Lessons with Your Child

Practice what you preach. Your children will engage in piano lessons more so if you practice along with them. Play duets or nursery rhymes with your kids so that piano lessons don’t seem a chore to them. 

Children may feel hesitant to play the piano out of fear of making mistakes. Play duets with them and show them that making errors is a normal aspect of learning the piano. 

  • Choose Practice Time Carefully

Toddlers tend to be moody, and making them take lessons during the time they are hungry or cranky may hinder them from learning this new skill. Playing piano requires immense focus, and if your kids are not in the best mood, then encouraging them to practice will not work in your favor. In scenarios like these, it is better to try schedule piano practice at some other time of the day. 

  • Make it Fun and Exciting

Playing the piano can be arduous for children as it can easily become repetitive. In times like these, it is crucial to make the piano lessons interesting. Try playing games like “Higher or lower?” or “same or different?” on the piano. 

You can also ask your children to create their own melody and play it on the piano to the best of their ability. This will give them a chance to be creative. And they will also enjoy their lessons more than ever before. 

  • Respond to Your Child’s Cue

Never force your kids to play the piano as this might serve to dampen their love and enthusiasm for it. Regardless of age, your motive should be to boost your kid’s morale. This can be done by asking them to play their favorite nursery rhymes or other songs. Once they start liking the idea of practicing, you can push the boundaries a little more into unknown territory. 

  • Listen to Music in Your Car and Home

Surround your kids with music so that they develop an ear for music. Make sure that you play the songs that your kids love. If you think that a certain genre of music will help your child grow as a pianist, introduce it to them early on.

Tutorial Videos for Teaching Piano to Kids

Easy Piano Songs for Kids

Free Online Piano Lessons with Videos

The Piano Podcast with Mario Ajero

Free Piano Lessons for Kids

Tutorial how to use Piano Games Books by Natasha Mikhaylova

Conclusion

 As you can see, parents play a crucial role when it comes to teaching piano to toddlers. However, as the kids grow, they may need a reliable and qualified piano teacher. And as far as kids are concerned, they may need a teacher that keeps them engaged and interested in their lessons. Most young children have a low attention span, and they may lose interest in the blink of an eye. In this regard, finding a piano teacher that has prior working experience with smaller kids is important. 


Yamaha S70XS Review (2020)


Yamaha MM8 Review (2020)


How to Play a Casio Keyboard

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