The first time you see a band perform live or someone in your house playing a piano keyboard, there might be a spark lit in your brain attracting you towards it. From that moment on, when you were a little tot, you may have wanted to learn the keyboard piano. Or you maybe you just want to give yourself the challenge to learn something new.
Regardless of the reasons you want to learn the keyboard, getting acquainted with a new skill is always a great way to expand your brain. What’s more is that by learning a new art form, you will be able to truly unleash your creativity.
But what do you do when the price tag on new keyboards hinders your objective of learning an instrument?
The answer lies in looking for alternatives. Instead of setting yourself back around $500-1000, find a good budget keyboard.
What is the price range for a budget piano keyboard?
Before we discuss other options for playing keyboard on a budget, let’s shed some light on what a budget piano will cost you.
The most basic keyboards start out at $100. The price starts hiking as the number of features and keys in the keyboard start increasing. Piano keyboards will also become costlier if the materials used to build them include high-grade plastic.
For entry-level learners, arranger keyboards ranging from $100 to $500 are the best options. You may also be able to find budget keyboards for $100-250.
What are some creative options for playing a keyboard if I don’t have much money?
It’s completely understandable that you may not want to spend thousands of dollars on a keyboard piano. You have to respect your budget and not go breaking your bank to get an instrument you are just starting to learn.
However, don’t let your budget stop you from learning a new skill. There are other ways you can still learn how to play keyboard on a budget.
1. Play keyboard online
The internet is a wonderful place. While social media seems to consume most of its existence these days, it boasts solutions for various problems. For instance, there are virtual keyboards and applications you can use to learn the piano.
You use the keys on the computer keyboard as the piano keyboard. Some online keyboards space out the keys to simulate the real ones while other ones require you to press down the “shift” key to play keys. Most online keyboards have 61 keys and 3 octaves.
There are also android and iOS applications that you can use on your phone or a tablet. These apps have the actual keys you can touch to play the piano. However, learning on mobile applications is not as effective due to the size of the screen and keys.
2. Borrow a keyboard
If you don’t want to buy a piano keyboard just yet but still want to get a taste of what you’re in for, why not borrow a keyboard? This solution should work even you’re in for the long haul.
Maybe a family member, friend or neighbor has a piano keyboard they are willing to let you borrow. You can either bring it home or go around to their place to use the piano keyboard.
If they are willing to let you borrow the keyboard, you can babysit their kids, mow their lawn or even pay the rental fee in return.
3. Buy a used keyboard
This is the best solution for someone on a budget. While the previous two options are effective solutions, nothing can replace always having a keyboard to practice on. If a new keyboard is not on the radar, a used one might suffice.
With a little bit of research and looking around, you may be able to find a piece in excellent condition but half the price.
4. Buy a budget keyboard
While you start learning the piano using the other methods mentioned above, you can save up for a budget-friendly piano keyboard. There are some arranger keyboards that fall under the $500 range.
We have discussed where you can get a budget keyboard below. Typically, a 61-key piano keyboard with touch-sensitive keys works wonderfully well for beginners.
What are the best websites for playing keyboard online (i.e. virtual keyboard)?
There are many options for playing the keyboard online. A simple Google search will bring up many online keyboards. While many are basic pianos, there are some websites that also teach you how to play.
Online Piano Keyboards:
The Virtual Piano by Recursive Arts is first on the list. The website is free to access. Anyone with a computer keyboard or even a mouse can learn how to play the piano on here. There are similar websites also available online.
Besides these, there are some other programs that you can download on your PC.
- MusicalKeys
- A73 Piano Station
- Everyone Piano
What are the best websites for buying a used keyboard?
Facebook Marketplace is a very good start to begin looking for used piano keyboards in your local area. If comes up with nothing, you can try the tried and true Amazon website. Besides that, eBay, Guitar Center, and Beatles Center are also good options.
Be sure to check out the specs and read up on the reviews before making a purchase.
What are the best websites for buying a (new) budget keyboard?
Again, Amazon is the mecca for buying anything you might possibly need. While Guitar Center is a great alternative, check Amazon thoroughly for a budget keyboard. Besides the product and manufacturer details, you can view reviews to find out what other people recommend or not recommend.
Here are some video recommendations to help you learn what you need to look for in a piano. Use the knowledge in the videos and take your time to look for the right budget piano keyboard to pursue your dream of becoming a true maestro.
