As a composer of music or someone who simply likes to play the keys, having the best piano keyboard is going to make all the difference in the sound that you can create. In fact, the best piano keyboard is designed to create sounds that mimic an acoustic piano, but they also provide viable options to create other sounds as well. That being said, there are quite a lot of keyboards on the market that will fit your needs, so which is the best piano keyboard? Let’s take a look at 10 great options so that you can make an educated decision.
Best Piano Keyboard in 2021: A Reviews In Detail
1. Yamaha PSR-EW300 76-Key Portable Grand Piano Premium Pack
The first piano keyboard that we are going to be reviewing is a Yamaha, which is a company that has been known to manufacture quality musical instruments for generations. This portable grand piano has a total of 76 keys that are non-weighted, which gives them the look and the tough of the keys that you would find on a piano. The level of resistance on the keys can even be adjusted so that it is ideal for a beginner as well as a professional.
A feature of the best piano keyboard that makes it unique is the different voices that are available to use as well as the traditional piano sound; in fact, this one has 361 unique voices. This specific digital piano comes with 30 built-in songs that you can use as background music as well as a CD that holds more than 70 more.
In addition, if you are new to the keys, there is also a system on this device that breaks down how to play songs so that you can easily learn what your hands need to do to perfect the sound. In this mode, you can practice with one hand so that you can learn the tempo as the music plays the notes that your other hand would typically play. Each lesson will be monitored as you play to help you see where you are making mistakes.
Pros
- This premium pack is a great value.
- It has an amazing sound with 361 voice options.
- You can easily connect to a computer to add songs via USB.
Cons
- The keys make a sound when they are pressed against the pads.
- The keyboard does not fit the provided stand very well.
2. Rockjam 88-Key Beginner Digital Piano with Semi-Weighted Keys
This Rockjam piano is a full 88-key digital piano that is designed with weighted keys that give the piano more of an acoustic piano feel. This means that you will be able to create the sounds of a grand piano as well as more electric and synthetic sounds that you may lie to use from time to time. In total, there are 10 different sounds that can choose from.
In addition to voice control, you will also be able to control the amount of vibrato, reverb, and chorus that you can hear in the music that you are creating, which means that you have a more realistic control when you are using string sounds and other similar voices. If you are just learning to play, there is also a built-in metronome to help you keep the beat.
Insofar as the controls on this best piano keyboard, you will find that it is easy to use, and the LCD display is easy to read as well, which means that you can easily change your voice mid song. You can even create a split sound with a few layers of sound that will make your musical creations sound much fuller than it would with only a single voice.
Pros
- This keyboard is very portable.
- This piano has a full 88 keys, which will help you hit all of the notes that you can on a traditional piano.
- The LCD screen is backlit to make it easy to read while you are playing.
Cons
- There are not a lot of voice options on this model.
- The weighted keys seem a bit light.
3. Yamaha EZ-220 61-Key Lightweight Portable Keyboard
The next best piano keyboard that we are going to review is another model that was created by Yamaha. It is still a very portable option, but this model actually comes with only 61 keys. This means that you will not have the full range that you would get from an acoustic piano, but it should be sufficient for most types of music that you would want to play on these keys. The keys are touch-sensitive, so you should still have the same feel as you play.
The interface on the keyboard is very streamlined; in fact, there are only 10 buttons that you can use to change your music settings as you play. The 10 voices include two organ sounds, two electric piano sounds, and a strings sound that you can layer on top of each other to create an orchestra full of sound rather than a single piano. If you need help keeping tempo, there is also a built-in metronome that you can make use of.
This piano is great for someone who is learning the keys because you can easily connect the device to a laptop, computer, or a tablet to gain access to more sounds and programs to help you learn. There is also an application that you can download on an iOS that can be used to control the best digital keyboard with an interface that is easy to navigate and configure.
Pros
- A simple keyboard that is easy to use.
- This is a very lightweight instrument that is very portable.
- It has a very aesthetically pleasing design.
Cons
- This best piano keyboard does not have weighted keys.
- This unit does not come with a power adaptor.
4. Casio PX860 BK Privia Digital Home Piano
The Casio PX860 is the best piano keyboard designed specifically for home use. This piano’s main function is to provide you with the realism and the sound of a concert grand piano without taking up as much space in your home. The sound can be dampened and resonated to create a rich tone that will enhance the sound and make it really resonate as you play.
There are 88-keys on this digital piano, so you can hit all of the notes that you could on a grand piano. The keys are weighted and textured to give you a feel that you’ll love. In addition, you will have the choice of 18 other instrument tones that you can enjoy that range from a string ensemble to more electric sounds. You can even layer the sounds if you’d like. In addition, there are 10 live performances from The Philharmonic Orchestra that are installed on the piano for you to play along with. The scores are also included so that you don’t have to play by ear.
This digital piano can also connect to a Windows or a Mac computer with simple USB connectivity, which allows you access to more sounds and the ability to share the music that you create with ease.
Pros
- This piano is visually pleasing to the eye.
- It has great sound; in fact, it is easily comparable to an acoustic piano.
- The key action feels very realistic, which makes it easier to play.
Cons
- The bass voice is a bit more muffled than it should be.
- This digital piano does not have a very portable design.
5. Casio Inc. CTK2550 PPK 61-Key Premium Keyboard Pack.
This best piano keyboard is also a Casio, but this one is designed with only 61 keys, which makes it a more portable unit that you can take where you need with ease. You can always add a different sound to your music with the 180 rhythms that are available on this digital piano. There are also 152 songs that you can play along with on this set of keys. If you like a little reverb, then there is a concert hall button that makes each note vibrate and resonate as it is heard
To make it easier to reach a specific tempo or rhythm, this piano also has the ability to save 32 different settings into the memory of the piano keyboard. If you want to change the voice of your music, you will have over 600 options to choose from, which adds a lot of versatility to your music. These voices range from classical sounds like string and a grand piano to more electronic sounds; in fact, you can even record your own sounds and play them back on the keys.
Since this is a premium pack, you will also get a few accessories that allow you to play the piano keyboard right out of the box. The headphones are great for ensuring that you are not playing too loudly for those nearby. It also comes with an X-style stand that works great for this keyboard as well as any others that you may have.
Pros
- It has a lot of voices to choose from.
- It’s a great instrument for beginners.
- It’s easy to set up.
Cons
- It’s not a full-sized keyboard.
- The LCD interface is not backlit.
6. Yamaha P125 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano
As you can see, Yamaha makes some of the best piano keyboard for beginners , which is why the Yamaha P125 is going to be the next digital piano that we are going to review. This best piano keyboard is designed to create the same sound as a grand piano would, so it comes with a Pure CF Sound Engine. This means that it has a sample from a grand piano, so the sound can be reproduced with precision.
The keys are weighted with a heavier touch at the low notes and a lighter touch as you move up the scale. The keyboard is a full 88 keys, and the keys have a matte finish that ensures that your fingers don’t slip off of the keys as you play. If you are looking for a built-in rhythm, then this digital piano has onboard drums that can be used to keep the beat or accompany your music as you play.
This best piano keyboard even comes with an app that you can use with your iPad or iPhone. You can adjust the voice and rhythm settings as well as save the setting so that you use the most so that it is easier to access the next time you need it.
Pros
- The weighted keys are very realistic.
- The included app is easy to use.
- The sound is amazing, especially the grand piano option.
Cons
- There are not many voices to choose from.
- There is no LCD display panel, only buttons.
7. Yamaha YDP103 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Grand Piano Premium
TheYamaha YDP103 is a great option if you are looking for the best piano keyboard to put in your home. This is not the lightest option, but you can move it if you need to. This unit has a full 88 keys so that you can enjoy playing it like an acoustic piano. Each key is weighted so that the lower keys require a bit more pressure than the higher octave keys. This is great for a beginner because it helps you to strengthen your fingers and perfect your playing technique.
Insofar as sound, there is not a huge library of voices to select from, but if you want an amazing grand piano sound, then this is where you will get it without actually playing a grand piano. There is also the option to play with a chorus and a reverb effect as well, which is great if you are used to playing in a music hall.
There is also an LCD screen on this instrument that allows you to make adjustments to your music with ease. You can even connect a microphone and sing along to one of the many pre-recorded options. If you love the way that it sounds, you can even record your music. In fact, it can record up to six tracks at once so that you can layer your music to create a more in-depth sound.
Pros
- The LCD screen is easy to read.
- It comes with Smart Chords to help you layer your sound.
- The concert hall voice sounds spectacular.
Cons
- The keys become louder as they age.
- It is pretty heavy.
8. Alesis Recital Pro 88-Key Digital Piano
The Alesis Recital Pro is an 88-key best piano keyboard that is designed to have great sound right out of the box. Each of the keys is weighted with a hammer action that feels just like an acoustic piano. There are 20 voices built into the instrument that you can use to vary the sound of your music, and if you want to create something that is a bit more in-depth, you can even create layers to add to your sound. There is also a reverb and a chorus sound that you can adjust as well.
There are about 60 songs that are pre-set into this piano so that you can easily play along with the recording if you’d like. You can also record your own songs to play along with if you’d like. This piano is great for a beginner, especially since you can enter duet mode and set one of the 50 accompaniments to play as you are learning the finger techniques for the music that you are learning. If you need more song options, you can always use a USB to connect to your computer or laptop to get access to more options.
Pros
- This is a lightweight best piano keyboard, so it is easy to take with you no matter where you plan to practice.
- The feel of the keys is perfectly comparable to an acoustic piano.
- It comes with a very nice sustain pedal.
Cons
- The speakers produce good quality sound, but they are not very loud.
- The library of voices is not as extensive as it could be.
9. Roland Juno-DS Digital Piano
The Roland Juno-DS is one of the best digital piano options that you can choose if you are looking for a portable option that you can take from your home to the studio with ease. This keyboard features 88 weighted keys that feel like you are playing an acoustic piano instead of a digital one.
All-in-all, there are quite a few sound options that you can select from on this piano. There are 13 different piano sounds that you can choose from as well as 22 other less traditional, more fun sounds. If you are looking for a grand piano sound, there are three voice options that you can choose from to emulate the instrument’s sound.
Insofar as aesthetic appeal, there are only eight buttons on the instrument. These buttons light up when they are in use, and the volume button lights up as well. In addition to being able to use these buttons, you can also use Bluetooth functionality to connect to your any iPad or iPhone that has a compatible app. You can choose the voice, the tone, and the tempo with an iOS app, and some even make it easy to turn the pages of your music, which is great for beginners.
Pros
- It produces realistic acoustic piano sounds.
- It is compatible with Bluetooth.
- This digital piano is very portable.
Cons
- There are not that many voices on this keyboard.
- The app is only for iOS users.
10. Yamaha P45 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano
The final best piano keyboard that we are going to be reviewing is another Yamaha, but this time it is theYamaha P45, which is a great option for a beginner. This is a keyboard with a full 88-key design. Each key is weighted so that it feels more like an acoustic model. The lower end of the keyboard is going to be a bit more difficult than the higher octaves, but that helps create a more realistic feel. The keys also have a matte finish that helps your fingers grip the black keys when playing for a while.
Insofar as looks, there are not that many buttons on this instrument, which helps to streamline the look and keep it simple for a beginner. There is a power button and a volume slider that you can see on the left side of the digital piano. There is also a grand piano button that allows you to easily change voices when you’d like. This piano utilizes samples from a real grand piano, so the sample that you hear will be very realistic.
In total, there are ten unique voices that you can play on this piano keyboard. Unfortunately, importing other songs to this instrument is not an option, but for a beginner, the included library is sufficient. You can also use the same button to configure the built-in metronome to the tempo that you need for each song.
Pros
- The weighted keys feel just like an acoustic piano.
- The sound that this instrument creates is great.
- The simple interface is easy to use.
Cons
- There are not a lot of voice options.
- The included sustain pedal could be better.
What Makes or List for the Best Piano Keyboard of 2021?
Be it owing to the price or because of a space crunch, resorting to the best piano keyboard may seem to be a solution for many. These digital gadgets come with a lot of features that you must know of if you are planning to buy one.
These pianos are portable and are easy to carry
They are low maintenance unlike an acoustic piano
They have great features when it comes to composing and learning
These come with various sound levels
Rest assured the sound is of high quality
These offer maximum polyphony that suggests they have standard sound generation
These have 88 keys like a real piano
The keys replicate those of a traditional piano and are often termed as weighted keys
These keys are simulated with heavier low notes and lighter high notes that lend them an authentic touch
Some even are accompanied by MIDI that can safely keep your hard work documented into an electronic module
These best piano keyboards have an organized console that assists the user with basic and advanced backing
In addition to all this, you will get to choose from a range of manufacturers that have worldwide popularity. Names like Yamaha, Casio and much more will come to the fore while hunting for the best keyboard piano. Don’t get confused while buying the best piano keyboard that meets your requirements because of this. The truth is if you know what exactly you expect out of your piano, you will never face a problem with this.
How to Buy the Best Piano Keyboard
Yes, we know you don’t buy a piano every day and you must have some basic idea as to how to buy a quality one. However, there are a couple of things that you should know before you invest in a electronic musical instrument. Don’t worry, we found a few pointers that will see you through the problem. Just make sure that you give these a consideration ahead of purchasing the best piano keyboard.
Call for – You need to know why you need a piano because that will help you decide precisely. If you want it to perform on stage, then you would be looking for something with amplifiers, if you are a novice, then look for a simple one for now and if you are a composer, then you need an advanced one for sure.
Budget – Now this goes without saying that you should have a budget in mind while buying any kind of digital piano keyboards. Well, you need to buy a piano that meets your prerequisites without burning a hole in your pocket.
Skilllevel – This is another condition that you should look into because you will be purchasing the best piano keyboard based on this. If you are a beginner, you will need a simpler piano keyboard to start with, an intermediate will require a little-advanced one and an expert will need a sophisticated model. So, you see this certainly should be given a thought as well.
Keyboard – What about the keys? You should be able to grip on the keys and your fingers should not slip but should be able to glide over them smoothly. That is the basic, stick to it and there you will find the best suited for your fingers!
Pedal responsiveness – The best piano keyboard should have a pedal that would start by feather touch. Undoubtedly, you should not invest in one that needs a lot of pressure. You need to focus on the melody, music, and flow other than the pedal. You are not a cyclist!
Digital components – There is no end to this and you are your best judge to take a call on the one that matches your requisites. You can get it all like a MIDI, USB connectivity, headphones port or more in these digital versions nowadays. Make a choice.
Sound – You need to check on this without a doubt because this is the most important aspect of a musical instrument. A special note has to be added to this saying that modern pianos (digital ones) have improved on their tone and sound quality beyond comparison.
Polyphony – Yet one more significant element that can make or break your experience of a Digital Piano. If you get more of this, you will be able to play abounding and multifarious passages.
Brand – As mentioned, you get a lot of name brands these days and ideally speaking you should invest in one. Avoid falling for cheap pianos that would not last long as they are not associated with warranties and quality checks.
Warranty – There should be a time period that would provide coverage for a product. This rule does not change and all genuine products must come with this promise at least.
Research – Consider this to be the most important aspect of buying the best piano keyboard. You need to conduct your own research if you want the perfect product. Read as much as possible and go through the reviews to form an opinion. You can get in-depth analysis from magazines, forums, or even groups to get a better idea of things.
In reality, you need to be told that this is a process that you will learn eventually. There is no need to get worked up if you don’t get it in a day.
This may take some time and be prepared to give this selection some time because you don’t want to buy something that you may not fit the bill. On the contrary, learn about the various parts and components of a digital Piano and then think about it. All we want to add here is that you should train yourself well for purchasing the best piano keyboard for the money and then start looking.
Who Should Buy a Piano Keyboard?
You may be an aspiring musician, want your child to learn music or an entertainer. And you may need the best piano keyboard to relieve stress and escape into the world of music from day to day life. You may intend to install one to add it as a decor to your existing furnishings. So, you see there are many reasons that may compel to buy piano. Yes, but don’t just jump into buying a piano, think about the brand you are about to buy from and read the fine print. Check if you get the warranty of any kind and also consider the size of the piano as a decider. You need to be practical especially if you have a small apartment. Again the budget should be the final resolve while purchasing a piano.
Types of Piano and what suits you best
These days you get a lot of options when you decide to buy a digital piano. You may buy an acoustic piano, which derives its names from natural sounds. The hammer hits the strings and thus produces pure sounds that are pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, you have the best beginner keyboard piano for the money that lack hammers and have no strings attached (no pun intended). We have found a few more varieties that you can read through and make up your mind to buy as per your constraint.
Grand piano – These are longer (anything between 5 feet to 10 feet) and have no space restrictions. The strings are long and the mechanical action takes place behind a keyboard. They are considered to be a lifelong investment and you may want it if you have space as well as the budget to afford it.
Straight strung piano – The strings run vertically but are parallel to one another and there is no chance of crossing of each other. If you are looking for something simple, then this should be it.
Upright piano – Also known as the vertical pianos, have horizontal strings attached to them and often have a height restriction. The levers connect the hammers to the keyboard. These are often used in schools, churches and community centers.
Overstrung piano – In simple words, the bass strings cross diagonally over the treble strings to produces the melodious sound. Latest piano models integrate this pattern for maximum effect.
Digital piano – There is no set standards and definition to this as you can get an array of combination for the electric pianos. USB ports, MIDI, amplifier, microphone ports and loudspeakers, you get all of these as accessories. You may buy them separately or get the one that already is accompanied with these. An electronic simulates the sound of a conventional piano and use electronic power to augment the sound. Numerous brands, unlimited options, affordable pricing and space saving tendency make them the number for beginners to experts.
Remember this investment should be made as part of a lifelong commitment. You should take care of the piano of your choice as per manufacturer asks you to. In consequence, this most definitely will make it last longer.
Advantage of playing Piano
No, we are not talking about best keyboard piano for beginners or anything in particular in this section. Instead, we are discussing the general benefits of playing piano and you will be surprised to see numerous advantages of developing this skill. However, even before we start with that, it should be mentioned that music is all about feeling good. It comes from you and alleviates your mood that makes you happy. This makes you live a happy and healthy life. There are more benefits like:
Stress buster – There are no doubts about the fact that music can reduce stress and practice with a piano is no different. The rhythm, notes, and music blends in together to relieve you of stress. You enjoy the melody and forget about loss, pain or depression. In a way, it boosts your mental health and makes you confident.
Boosts neural connections – If you put in simple words, then it must be stated that music enhances the functions of the brain. The melody and beats help the nerves perform favorably that increases this functionality.
Strong vocabulary – A study has revealed that people who learn piano have a better vocabulary and this improves their academic performance.
Handle criticism – Learning has its own merits and especially if you are taking lessons from an experienced music teacher. You will know how to handle constructive criticism and also take it positively.
FAQ
Q1. What is a Digital Piano?
Ans. These are a cross between an electronic keyboard and an acoustic piano. They are bigger than a normal keyboard and have 88 keys like its acoustic cousin. They sound way better than keyboards but are highly portable, unlike an acoustic one.
Q2. How does a Digital Piano differ from the other two?
Ans. As mentioned, a best keyboard piano is all about precision that produces electronic music. Unlike acoustic pianos, a digital version does not come with hammer and strings. They are light and have touch sensitive keys.
Q3. Do they need tuning?
Ans. As a matter of fact, they never require any tuning. You can tune once a year at the maximum.
Q4. How long do they last?
Ans. Honestly, these are a new breed of pianos and it would be unfair to comment on this. What we can say is you can get one from a reputable brand for best results.
Q5. What about maintenance?
Ans. Not to forget that the best piano keyboards are low on maintenance.
Q6. What is so special about the best piano keyboard?
Ans. You can store everything in electronic form and listen to them whenever you want. All you need is a headphone and you can record your own creation, learn and tweak as per your requirement. This will help you improve in a methodical way for sure. To be honest, finding the best piano keyboards for beginners is not that difficult these days.
Although, so many brands may make it look tedious, but if you know how to go about it, then it would seem to be a cake walk for you. Reading through reviews and talking to experts can be a way out too. The point is if the music is your passion, then nothing can stop you from learning it. Go for it and prove it to yourself that you can really do it. There is no need to prove anything to anyone, but to you. Why shy away from it if you have it in your heart?
Final Verdict
As you can see digital piano keyboards vary quite a bit, so which is the best piano keyboard? Well, that depends on your musical needs, but if we were to choose one from our list, the Yamaha YPG-235 would stand out as the most versatile piano keyboards because it has a great design with 76 keys, it offers quite a few voice options, and it is a great option for both beginners and more experienced musicians. It also offers an educational suite to help you perfect your sound as you learn.
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