Pianos & Keyboards
Best keyboards for beginners

Best keyboards for beginners

and why we like them
Last updated:
February 9, 2025
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You’re looking for the best keyboard to start learning on.

Here we compare our favourite picks of weighted keyboards for beginners and why we like them.

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3 things to look for in a keyboard for beginners

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a keyboard for beginners.

Weighted keys
Simple controls
Easy to move

1. Yamaha P71

Best keyboard for beginners
Price when reviewed:
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Yamaha P71
Why we like the Yamaha P71

We like:

Realistic piano sound using Yamaha’s AWN tech

Lovely weighted keys experience

Lightweight considering its size

Can link via USB to your recording laptop

We do not like:

No built-in recording function

No display screen

Doesn’t include a sustain pedal


Famous Yamaha players: Alen Golos, Kay Lucas, Sorin Zlat

Price when reviewed:
$500
Yamaha P71
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Features & Specs
Feature Benefit
88 Weighted Keys Provides an authentic piano feel for expressive playing
Dual Mode for Layering Sounds Enables combining two different instrument voices for rich, dynamic sound
Compact and Lightweight Design Ideal for easy transport and small spaces
USB Connectivity Allows seamless integration with computers and mobile devices for recording and MIDI control
Headphone Jack Enables private practice without disturbing others
Built-In Speakers Delivers quality sound for practice and performance without external amplification
Music Rest Provides a convenient space for holding sheet music or a tablet
Specification Details
Weight 25 lbs (11.5 kg)
Dimensions (W x D x H) 52.25″ x 11.5″ x 6.0″ (132.7 cm x 29.2 cm x 15.2 cm)
Power Supply AC Adapter (included)
Polyphony 64-note
Number of Voices 10 presets
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2. Alesis Recital

Best budget keyboard
Price when reviewed:
$230
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Alesis Recital

We like:

Semi-weighted keys help develop your finger strength

Includes support lesson modes!

Built-in metronome to help practice in time

Has both USB and MIDI output connectivity

We do not like:

The touch sensitivity is not as responsive as the Yamaha


Price when reviewed:
$230
Alesis Recital
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Features & Specs
Feature Benefit
88 Full-Sized Semi-Weighted Keys with Adjustable Touch Response Provides a realistic and customizable playing experience suitable for various styles.
Five Built-In Voices: Acoustic Piano, Electric Piano, Organ, Synth, and Bass Offers a variety of sounds to suit different musical genres and preferences.
Layer Mode Allows combining any two voices simultaneously for a richer, fuller tone.
Split Mode Enables assigning different voices to the left and right hands for versatile playing.
Adjustable Reverb and Chorus Effects Provides additional sound customization to enhance the overall tone.
20-Watt Built-In Speakers Delivers powerful and clear sound suitable for practice and small performances.
128-Note Maximum Polyphony Ensures ultra-realistic sound and allows complex passages without note dropouts.
Lesson Mode Divides the keyboard into two zones with the same pitch and voice, facilitating learning and teaching.
¼” (6.35mm) Headphone Output Allows for private practice by muting the internal speakers when headphones are connected.
¼” (6.35mm) Sustain Pedal Input Enables connection of a sustain pedal (not included) for added expressiveness.
Stereo RCA Outputs Facilitates connection to external audio equipment like recorders, mixers, or amplifiers.
USB-MIDI Output Allows connection to a computer for use with educational software or virtual instrument plugins.
Power Options Can be powered using the included power supply or by 6 D cell batteries for portability.
Specification Details
Power Included power supply or 6 D cell batteries (not included)
Speakers 20-watt built-in speakers
Polyphony 128-note maximum
Dimensions Not specified
Weight Not specified
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3. Casio S150

Best Casio keyboard for beginners
Price when reviewed:
$445
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Casio S150

We like:

The most lightweight and slim choice on our list

Great sounding real piano using Casio’s AiR tech

Lovely expressive key sensitivity

Includes access to Chordana Play app that helps you learn

We do not like:

No screen display


Famous Casio players: Alicia Witt, Leon Thomasian

Price when reviewed:
$445
Casio S150
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Features & Specs
Feature Benefit
Slim Body Just 232 mm in Depth Allows for easy placement and portability, fitting comfortably in small spaces.
Natural Tone Changes for Dynamic Piano Sound Provides expressive sound variations, capturing the nuances of your performance.
Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II Delivers a realistic touch response by simulating the weight of hammers in a grand piano.
Supports Battery Operation Enables playing without the need for an external power source, enhancing portability.
Duet Mode Allows two players to perform together by splitting the keyboard into two equal pitch ranges.
MIDI Recorder Enables recording and playback of your performances for practice and evaluation.
Support for Three-Pedal Unit Offers enhanced expression by accommodating an optional three-pedal unit, including half-damper functionality.
Connection to App (CASIO MUSIC SPACE) Provides additional learning and performance features through app integration.
Specification Details
Keyboard Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II, 88 keys
Touch Response 3 sensitivity levels, off
Maximum Polyphony 64 notes
Number of Tones 10 built-in tones
Demonstration Songs 2
Pedal Included: SP-3 (terminal x 2)
Speakers 12cm x 6cm (oval) x 2
Amplifiers 8W + 8W
Power Supply AD-A12150LW, AA-size batteries x 6 (approximately 13 hours of continuous operation)
Power Consumption 8W
Dimensions 1,322 x 232 x 99 mm
Weight 10.5 kg
Included Accessories Pedal (SP-3), Music Stand, AC Adaptor (AD-A12150LW)
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4. Roland FP-10

Best keyboard for beginners with Bluetooth
Price when reviewed:
$600
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Roland FP-10

We like:

Amazing piano sound delivery of expressive

Their plastic keys feel almost like the real thing!

Includes metronome and recording functions

Weighted keys which help develop your technique

We do not like:

No screen display


Famous Roland players: Brocket Parsons, Richard Vission, Jason Fresse

Price when reviewed:
$600
Roland FP-10
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Features & Specs
Feature Benefit
88-Note PHA-4 Standard Keyboard with Escapement and Ivory Feel Provides authentic piano touch for maximum expression.
SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine Delivers rich, responsive tone for a realistic playing experience.
Built-in Bluetooth® MIDI and USB MIDI Interfaces Allows connection with music software on mobile devices and computers.
Onboard Stereo Speakers Reproduces your playing with expressive sound.
Headphones Output and Quiet Keyboard Action Enables you to enjoy playing at any time without disturbing others.
Twin Piano Mode Ideal for lessons, letting student and teacher play side-by-side in the same octave ranges.
Compact and Portable Design Fits easily into smaller spaces and is convenient for transportation.
Specification Details
Keyboard 88 keys (PHA-4 Standard Keyboard: with Escapement and Ivory Feel)
Touch Sensitivity Key Touch: 5 types, fixed touch
Sound Generator SuperNATURAL Piano Sound
Maximum Polyphony 96 voices
Tones Total Available Tones: 36
Effects Ambience (0–10), Brilliance (-10–+10)
Bluetooth MIDI: Bluetooth Ver 4.0
Connectors DC In jack, USB COMPUTER port: USB Type B, Update port: USB Type A, Phones jack: Stereo miniature phone type
Rated Power Output 6 W x 2
Speakers 12 cm (4-3/4 inches) x 2
Dimensions 1,284 x 258 x 140 mm (50-9/16 x 10-3/16 x 5-9/16 inches)
Weight 12.3 kg (27 lbs 2 oz)
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5. Korg B2

Best keyboard piano for beginners
Price when reviewed:
$510
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Korg B2

We like:

Natural weighted hammer action on the keys

Korg’s sampling sounds deliver rich piano-like resonance

Simple interface with easy-to-get functions

Includes lesson modes and metronomes to help beginners

We do not like:

Again, no display screen. However, this makes it lighter


Price when reviewed:
$510
Korg B2
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Features & Specs
Feature Benefit
88-Key Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH) Keyboard Provides a realistic piano feel with heavier touch in the lower register and lighter touch in the upper register, emulating an acoustic piano's response.
12 High-Quality Sounds Offers a diverse selection of tones, including five distinct grand piano sounds, as well as electric piano, organ, harpsichord, and strings, catering to various musical genres.
Built-In Stereo Sound System Delivers rich and detailed sound through integrated speakers, eliminating the need for external amplification during practice or small performances.
USB MIDI and Audio Connectivity Enables seamless connection to computers or mobile devices for MIDI control and audio input/output, facilitating recording and use with music software.
Lightweight and Slim Design Enhances portability and allows for easy placement in various environments, making it suitable for home use, stage performances, or educational settings.
Included Music Rest and Damper Pedal Provides essential accessories for immediate playability and convenience, supporting proper technique and music reading.
Partner Mode Divides the keyboard into two equal pitch ranges, allowing two people to play together, which is ideal for lessons or duet performances.
Multiple Connectivity Options Features headphone output for private practice, stereo line out for connecting to external speakers, and pedal jack for connecting additional pedals, enhancing versatility.
Specification Details
Dimensions (W x D x H) 1,312 mm x 336 mm x 117 mm (51.65" x 13.23" x 4.61")
Weight 11.4 kg (25.13 lbs)
Polyphony 120 voices
Amplification 15W x 2
Speakers Oval (100 mm x 50 mm / 3.94" x 1.97") x 2
Power Supply DC 15V, AC adapter (included)
Power Consumption 15W
Included Accessories Music rest, AC adapter, damper pedal
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Best sustain pedal for beginner keyboards

M-Audio SP-25

Looks and feels like a real piano pedal
Compatible across all keyboard brands
Trusted brand that will last ages
Price last checked: $27
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How many keys on a keyboard do I need as a beginner?

As a beginner, you might wonder, “How many keys on a keyboard do I need?” Well, it depends. Some keyboards have 88 keys, like a real piano. Having more keys means you can play a wider range of music. But if space or budget is a concern, keyboards with fewer keys, like 61 or 76, can still work well for learning. They’re lighter and easier to move around. Plus, fewer keys mean less overwhelming for beginners. However, you might miss out on playing certain pieces that require the full range of keys.

Does a keyboard need lots of sounds?

Having many sounds can add versatility to your playing. You can explore different genres and styles, keeping practice engaging. Plus, it allows you to experiment and find your unique sound. However, too many sounds might overwhelm beginners. It can be challenging to navigate through them all. Also, quality matters more than quantity. Having a few high-quality sounds is better than many low-quality ones. So, consider what sounds you need for your music journey. Quality and usability are key.

Does learning on a keyboard affect my piano playing?

It can help in some ways. Keyboards are more affordable and portable, making them accessible for beginners. Plus, they often have features like built-in metronomes and lesson modes, aiding in practice. However, keyboards usually have fewer keys and lack the touch sensitivity of pianos. This can affect your technique and expression when transitioning to a piano. Also, the weighted keys on a piano feel different from the keys on digital pianos, so it may take time to adjust. Learning on a keyboard is a good starting point, but nothing can 100% replicate the feeling of playing on a piano.

How much should I practice the keyboard?

Regular practice is key to improvement. Aim for consistency over long practice sessions. Short, focused sessions can be super effective. Practice what you struggle with the most. It’s better to practice smart than long. However, don’t overdo it. Too much practice can lead to burnout. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Set achievable goals to stay motivated. Remember, quality matters more than quantity. So, find a balance that works for you and stick to it. With dedication and patience, you’ll see progress over time.

It’s better to practice for 30 minutes every day rather than 3 hours every 3 days. This is due to your brain’s neuroplasticity.

What does a weighted keys keyboard mean?

Weighted keys have resistance when pressed. This mimics the feel weight of acoustic piano keys. It’s good for building finger strength and technique. Weighted keys help beginners develop proper playing habits. They promote better control and dynamics in playing. However, some may find them harder to press. This could be tiring for beginners. Also, weighted keyboards tend to be heavier. They may not be as portable as non-weighted ones. These types of keys provide a more authentic playing experience and feel more expressive. They’re preferred by many pianists for their realism.

How long should you practice piano a day?

Consistent practice is key to improvement. Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour daily. Short, focused sessions can be effective. Practice what challenges you the most. It’s better to practice smart than long. However, don’t overdo it. Too much practice can lead to burnout or injury. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Set achievable goals to stay motivated. Remember, quality matters more than quantity. So, find a balance that works for you and stick to it. With dedication and patience, you’ll see progress over time.

How often should I practice the piano?

Aim for 4 to 5 sessions per week. Consistency is always the key to progress as this is the way our brains learn new information. Especially when it comes to muscle memory. Regular practice helps build muscle memory and skill. Short, focused sessions can be effective. Practice what challenges you the most. It’s better to practice smart than long. However, don’t overdo it. Too much practice can lead to burnout or injury. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Set achievable goals to stay motivated. Remember, quality matters more than quantity. Find a routine that fits your schedule and stick to it. With dedication and patience, you’ll see improvement over time.

What accessories do I need with my beginner keyboard?

A sustain pedal is essential. It adds a new dimension to your learning. A keyboard stand keeps your keyboard stable and at a comfortable height for playing. A keyboard bench provides proper seating for long practice sessions. A pair of studio headphones allow you to practice without disturbing others. A keyboard cover protects your keyboard from dust and damage when not in use.

Some of these accessories may not be necessary for beginners. It depends on your budget and how much space you have. Start with the basics and add more if you need to.