A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Piano Keyboard for Beginners
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As a professional musician and keyboard player, I've often been approached by friends seeking advice on purchasing their first piano keyboard, whether for themselves or their aspiring child, niece, or nephew. Buying a piano keyboard is a great birthday, Christmas, or holiday gift idea. But with so many options available in the market, making the right choice can be a daunting task. That's why I've put together this guide to help you make an informed decision and set the right tone for your musical journey.
Essential Features for Beginner Piano Keyboards
Before we delve into specific recommendations, let's identify the key features that are non-negotiable when shopping for a beginner piano keyboard:
Built-In Speakers: Beginner keyboards should have built-in speakers. This feature allows you to hear your playing without the need for external amplification, making it much easier to practice and enjoy your music.
At Least 61 Keys: You may know that a full sized piano keyboard has 88 keys, but keyboards often come with fewer. The keyboard I use on tour with my band has 76 keys. While there are smaller keyboards available, it's advisable to choose one with at least 61 keys. This is enough to play most popular music, and certainly enough to learn proper technique.
Headphone Jack: A headphone jack is a crucial feature, especially if you're living in a shared space or want to practice without disturbing others. It allows you to plug in your headphones and play to your heart's content, privately.
Accessories You Can't Ignore - Keyboard Stand, Bench & Sustain Pedal
In addition to the keyboard itself, there are a few essential accessories you'll need to enhance your playing experience:
Keyboard Stand: A sturdy keyboard stand is essential to set up your instrument at a comfortable playing height. It ensures good posture and prevents strain during long practice sessions.
Piano Bench: A comfortable and adjustable piano bench is crucial for maintaining proper seating posture while playing. It also provides a stable and supportive surface for your piano adventures.
Sustain Pedal: A sustain pedal allows you to sustain notes (let them ring out), creating beautiful, expressive music. It's a must-have for any aspiring pianist, even at the beginner level.
Consider the Setup & Aesthetics in Your Home
One piece of advice I often give is to think about where your keyboard will be located. If you're buying for yourself, it's worth investing in something that can become a permanent fixture in your living space. Setting up and breaking down a keyboard every time you want to play can be a barrier to consistent practice. A keyboard that’s always ready to play encourages more frequent playing and progress.
Investing a bit more in an attractive keyboard that complements your living space is a smart choice if you're serious about learning the instrument. While it may come at a slightly higher cost, the convenience and motivation it offers are well worth it.
On the other hand, if you're buying a keyboard for your child (or someone else's), and it will reside in their bedroom or a playroom, you can consider more budget-friendly options. However, resist the temptation to purchase a keyboard specifically designed for children. They often lack the necessary features and can be just as expensive as entry-level adult keyboards.
Recommended Entry-Level Keyboards
To make your decision easier, here are some entry-level keyboards that I recommend:
At the high-end of our list is a Yamaha Digital Piano with 88 semi-weighted keys, built in speakers, pedals, stand and bench. This piano is designed in rosewood to look like a traditional upright piano so you can leave it set up in your living space. Moreover, Yamaha is one of the leading brands in the industry, with superior build quality and authentic piano sounds. If you like this style, there are a number of similar options at various price points on Amazon and at other retailers
This is a more affordable 88-key semi-weighted keyboard in the same “upright style” as the Yamaha above. Note that the bench is not included in this package. Again, there are a number of similar options at various price points, including the predecessor Donner DEP-10.
Rounding out our list is the Casio Casiotone 61-Key Portable keyboard. You’ll want to add the stand and pedal package, and bench to your cart if you pick this up.
Yamaha YDP145 (Amazon Link). At the high-end of our list is a Yamaha Digital Piano with 88 semi-weighted keys, built in speakers, pedals, stand and bench. This piano is designed in rosewood to look like a traditional upright piano so you can leave it set up in your living space. Moreover, Yamaha is one of the leading brands in the industry, with superior build quality and authentic piano sounds. If you like this style, there are a number of similar options at various price points on Amazon and at other retailers.
Donner DEP-20 (Amazon Link). This is a more affordable 88-key semi-weighted keyboard in the same “upright style” as the Yamaha above. Note that the bench is not included in this package. Again, there are a number of similar options at various price points, including the predecessor Donner DEP-10.
Casio CT-S300 (Amazon Link). Rounding out our list is the Casio Casiotone 61-Key Portable keyboard. You’ll want to add the stand and pedal package, and bench to your cart if you pick this up.
These keyboards offer great value for beginners without compromising on quality. They're perfect for adults and children, alike, making them excellent choices for budding pianists.
Choosing the right piano keyboard is a crucial step in your musical journey. By prioritizing essential features, considering practical aspects like setup, and selecting the right accessories, you can set yourself or your young musician on the path to musical excellence. So, get ready to embark on your musical adventure, and let the music flow from your fingertips!
