Music is one of the most popular forms of entertainment, and learning to play an instrument can be a great way to connect with others. The keyboard is a versatile and affordable option for beginners as it can be used to play a wide range of genres and styles. It is also a portable instrument, making it ideal for those who want to learn to play on the go.
However, with so many different types of keyboards available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Choosing the best keyboard for beginners you should consider several factors. The first is the key size and its number, voices, and polyphony, touch sensitivity, connectivity and portability, ease of use, and finally budget. In this guide, we'll show you some of the best keyboards for beginners, so you can get started on your musical journey.
| № | Name | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | YAMAHA YPT260 |
9,9
|
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| 2 | Alesis Melody 61 MKII |
9,8
|
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| 3 | Casio CT-S200 BK |
9,7
|
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| 4 | Yamaha EZ 300 |
9,6
|
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| 5 | Roland GO-61K |
9,5
|
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| 6 | Alesis Recital Beginner Digital Piano |
9,4
|
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| 7 | Casio SA-77 |
9,3
|
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| 8 | RockJam RJ 654 |
9,2
|
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| 9 | Donner DEK-610 |
9,1
|
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More features: recording function, Duo mode
The Yamaha YPT 260 61-Key Keyboard is our Editor’s Choice thanks to its great features, simplicity, and affordable price that will definitely attract novice musicians. It has 400 voices, 130 accompaniment styles, and 112 songs. The 32-note polyphony ensures that you can play multiple notes at once without any problems. This keyboard also has recording capabilities so you can record your own music or voice and listen to it later on. For added convenience, this keyboard comes with a duo mode so two people can play together at the same time.
The YPT 260 61-Key portable keyboard is best compared to the YPT 270 61-key portable keyboard, as both are from the same Yamaha brand. Both keyboards feature AUX input, recording functions, onboard songs, accompaniment styles, and voice, with the same number of keys. But, the YPT 260 model is best suited for beginners since it has less complicated settings and features.
More features: recording function, built-in metronome, Duo mode, One touch song mode
The Alesis Melody 61 MKII is a great starter kit for aspiring musicians. It features 61 keys, 300 voices, and 300 accompaniment styles. You can also record your own music, and the built-in metronome ensures you stay on beat. The included stand, bench, headphones, microphone, and adapter make it easy to get started. At an affordable price, the Melody 61 MKII is the perfect way to begin your musical journey.
You can compare the Alesis Melody 61 MKII to the Melody 54, both portable keyboards with built-in speakers. While both keyboards are similar in their one-touch song modes, built-in tones, microphones, and speakers. But, the Melody 61 MKII comes with more keys and is fitted with a bench and stand for convenience. It also comes with headphones, a music rest, a power adapter, and educational features.
More features: 3 colors, Dance music mode, My setup function
Casio’s CT-S200BK 61-key portable keyboard is perfect for the beginner or experienced player. With 400 voices, 75 accompaniment styles, and 60 songs, this keyboard has something for everyone. The built-in carry handle makes it easy to take with you wherever you go, and the full-size keys provide a traditional piano feel. A USB connection lets you connect it to a computer or other device for even more versatility.
The CT-S200BK keyboard is best compared to the CT-S300, both 61-key portable keyboards with high quality. Both keyboards have the same number of voices, rhythms, and songs, with similar accessories too. But, the CT-S200BK is much better in terms of easy use. It features an LCD display and a built-in carry handle that beginners can easily get the hang of. It is also compatible with a mobile app for easier use.
More features: Smart chord function
Yamaha’s EZ 300 is a great digital piano for anyone just starting out. This 61-key portable keyboard features a sleek design and an array of sounds to help you create your own musical masterpieces. With 622 voices, 205 accompaniment styles, and 202 songs, the Yamaha EZ300 provides you with everything you need to compose music or play along with your favorite songs. The portable keyboard has 48 notes of polyphony for rich tones and lighted velocity-sensitive keys that ensure an accurate response.
The EZ 300 is another Yamaha keyboard on our list and is quite similar to the YPT 260 model since both are 61-key models, but the EZ 300 features touch sensitivity, making dynamic playing possible. Since the keys light up whenever they are showing the correct notes, you can easily learn how to play. There are different lessons on the EZ 300 too. If you’re having trouble learning the notes, the EZ 300 is better suited.
More features: Loop mix, one-touch control
Looking for a keyboard that is easy to play and has many features? The Roland GO-61K has you covered. With 500 voices, 554 accompaniment styles, and 99 songs, this 61-key keyboard has everything you need to create music. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily connect to your devices. In addition, with 128 notes of polyphony, you’ll never miss a note.
The Roland GO:KEYS GO-61 is a top choice, and you can compare it to the Roland GO: PIANO GO-61P. Both have the same keyboard design and speaker outputs, but the GO-61A is much more advanced in terms of its sound generator and available tones. You can pick up to 554 tones, which is hundreds more than what is offered by the GO-61P.
More features: Lesson mode
Looking for a keyboard to hone your musical skills? Look no further than the Alesis Recital. This 88-key keyboard has 5 voices and 128 notes of polyphony, making it perfect for budding musicians. The Recital is also powered by an adapter or 6D cell batteries, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Plus, the full-size semi-weighted keys make it easy to learn on.
When considering the Alesis Recital, you can compare it to the Alesis Recital 61. Both are semi-weighted keyboards, featuring lesson mode and a US MIDI output. Although they are very similar, the main difference is that the Recital features 88 keys while Recital 61 has 61 keys. Budding musicians who want to practice with more than the basic 61 keys will benefit from the Recital.
More features: 3 colors, mini-size keys, 5 drum pads, Melody Cut Rehearsal System, auto power off
The Casio SA-77 is a great keyboard for beginner musicians. It has 44 keys, 100 voices, 50 accompaniment styles, and 10 songs. It also has polyphony of 8 notes, making it possible to create more complex sounds. The Casio SA-77 is powered by an adapter or batteries and has a super lightweight and compact design, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
The Casio SA-77 is best compared to the Casio Casiotone 61-key portable keyboard on our list. Both keyboards come with an LCD screen and similar options, but the SA-77 is best suited for children who want to get started with the keyboard. There are less complicated keys and options for children to take advantage of. It also comes with five drum pads and a changeover switch for changing from piano to organ.
More features: Teaching mode
RockJam’s RJ654 is the perfect keyboard for beginners. With 100 voices and 100 accompaniment styles, it has everything you need to start learning to play the piano. The full-size keys provide a traditional piano feel, while the stereo speakers deliver excellent sound quality. The teaching mode makes it easy to learn the basics, and the affordable price makes it a great value.
The RockJam keyboard is another top choice for children, featuring similar functions to the Casio SA-77. But, it’s best suited for those who travel often and need a convenient piano on the road. It comes with batteries and can be powered by mains power depending on what you have available. It is also fitted with a sheet music stand that makes it easy to learn.
More features: 3 teaching modes, Follow mode, Single finger chord mode
The Donner DEK-610 keyboard has 61 keys, 500 voices, and 300 accompaniment styles. It’s a great choice for beginners, with three teaching modes and 40 songs. The full-size keys make it easy to learn, and the 3-dimension surround sound gives an immersive experience. It’s powered by an adapter or batteries, so you can play it anywhere you want, and includes a microphone.
The DEK-610 is best compared to the YPT 260 model which we named the Editor’s Choice. Although both are beginner-friendly, the DEK-610 offers learning options based on your level and comes with demos, tones, and rhythms that professional players will find useful.
Keyboards are a great way for beginners to get started with playing music. They are relatively affordable, and there is a range of options available to suit your needs. When choosing a keyboard, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need to decide how many keys you need. The number of keys on a keyboard can range from 25 to 88, and the size of the keyboard will usually be determined by the number of keys. Secondly, you need to decide what type of key size you need. Thirdly, you need to consider the voices and polyphony. The number of voices on a keyboard can range from 16 to 128, and the polyphony is the number of notes that can be played at the same time. The next factor is touch sensitivity, which is the ability of the keys to respond to the force of your touch. Connectivity and portability are also important considerations, as they provide your comfort. Finally, ease of use and your budget are the last factors to help you to make a decision.
The keys are one of the most important parts of the keyboard, they can be full-size or mini.
Full-size keys are the same size as a traditional piano. They can be a great option for those who want to get the most realistic experience. Mini keys are smaller than traditional piano keys. They can be a great option for children or those who want a more compact keyboard.
The number of keys on a keyboard will determine the range of notes that you can play.
For beginners, it is recommended to choose a keyboard with at least 61 keys.
This will give you enough room to experiment with different melodies and chords.
Voices are the different sounds that a keyboard can produce. Most keyboards will have a range of voices, from piano and strings to more unusual sounds like synths and drums. Beginners should look for a keyboard with a good selection of voices so they can experiment with different sounds.
Polyphony is the term used to describe the number of notes that a keyboard can play at the same time. It determines how complex your music can be.
This will ensure that your keyboard can keep up with your playing, even when you are using multiple voices at the same time. For beginners, it is recommended to choose a keyboard with at least 32 polyphony.
Touch sensitivity can be a great feature for those who want to be able to play with different levels of dynamics and expression.
Touch-sensitive keys allow you to control the volume of your playing by how hard you press the keys.
Weighted keys mimic the feel of a traditional piano, so it can be a great choice for those who want to feel like they are playing a real piano. Unweighted keys offer a lighter touch and are more common for beginners as they are easier to play.
Some keyboards come with a range of connectivity options, such as USB and MIDI. This can be useful for those who want to connect their keyboard to a computer or other devices. Bluetooth connectivity is also becoming increasingly common, which can be handy for wireless use.
Portability is another important consideration, and it can be a great feature for those who want to take their keyboard with them on the go. Some keyboards offer features such as the best keyboard stand, handle, and carrying case, which can make it easier to transport your keyboard.
Some keyboards come with a range of features that can make them easier to use. These can include an LCD screen, which can display information such as the current voice and volume. Other features can include a metronome, which can be a great tool for those who are just starting, and a built-in recorder, which can be handy for recording your practice sessions. Some keyboards also come with a music stand, which can be a great way to keep your sheet music organized.
When choosing a keyboard, it is important to consider your budget. There is a range of options available, from simple and affordable keyboards to more expensive and feature-packed models like the best digital pianos under $2000. It is important to find one that fits your needs and your budget. If you are a beginner, it is often a good idea to start with the best digital pianos under $300 and upgrade as you become more proficient.
There is a number of benefits to playing the keyboard. It can be a great way to relax and unwind, and it can also provide a creative outlet. Playing the keyboard can help to improve your coordination and motor skills, and it can be a great way to develop your sense of rhythm. Keyboards can also be a great way to bond with family and friends, as they can be a fun activity to do together. Finally, it can be a great way to meet new people, as many keyboard players are happy to share their passion with others.
Our Editor’s Choice Yamaha YPT260 keyboard is perfect for beginner musicians. With 61 keys, 400 voices, and 130 accompaniment styles, this keyboard has everything you need to start learning about music. The 112 songs provide a variety of musical styles to explore, and the polyphony of 32 ensures that your playing won’t be limited.
Alesis Melody 61 MKII is designed to make music easy, even for those who are just beginning their musical journey. The keyboard offers 300 different voices and 40 songs, so you can play along with everything from rock to country, hip-hop to classical. Plus, the set includes a stand, bench, headphones, and microphone.
Casio CT-S200BK is our third best keyboard for beginners. It has 61 keys, 400 voices, and 75 accompaniment styles. It’s also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
