What's keyboard piano should buy?

Buying a keyboard piano can be an exciting but sometimes overwhelming decision, especially with so many options available. Whether you're just starting your musical journey or looking to upgrade, choosing the right keyboard piano depends on several factors, including your skill level, budget, and specific needs. Here’s a guide to help you make the right choice.

1. Skill Level

Your current playing ability is a significant factor when choosing a keyboard piano.

Beginners: If you're new to playing, it's best to start with a keyboard that has fewer features but is user-friendly and offers a solid foundation for learning. You’ll want something affordable yet reliable, with built-in learning tools or features that help you practice.

• Recommended models:

• Yamaha PSR-E373: Known for its 61 keys, realistic sounds, and learning features. It’s perfect for those just starting out.
• Yamaha PSR-E373
• Casio WK-7600 : This model offers great sound quality and beginner-friendly features, with 61 keys and hundreds of built-in tones and rhythms.Casio WK-7600 
• Roland GO: Lightweight and portable, this is ideal for new players who need a simple but effective instrument.

Intermediate/Advanced Players: If you’ve already built some playing skills, you’ll want a keyboard with more advanced features, such as weighted keys and a larger number of sounds and effects. This will give you more room to grow musically.

• Recommended models:
• Yamaha P-125: This 88-key model is equipped with weighted keys for a more authentic piano feel, along with excellent sound quality.

• Roland FP-30X: With fully weighted keys and a higher-quality sound engine, it offers advanced features for more experienced players.

• Casio PX-S1100: A sleek and modern option with fully weighted keys, offering a fantastic balance of portability and performance.

2. Number of Keys

Keyboards come in various sizes, and the number of keys can impact both your playing and the keyboard's portability.

61 keys: Ideal for beginners and those who prioritize portability. This size is lighter, easier to move around, and sufficient for most basic songs and practice routines.

76 keys: Offers a balance between a full range of notes and portability. It’s a good option if you need more range than a 61-key model but still want something lightweight.

88 keys: This is the full-sized keyboard, replicating the layout of an acoustic piano. If you’re serious about learning the piano and want the closest feel to the real thing, 88 keys are the way to go.

3. Key Sensitivity and Action

The feel of the keys is another critical factor, especially if you want to develop skills that transfer easily to an acoustic piano.

Non-weighted keys: Easier to press and ideal for beginners, but they won’t provide the same playing experience as an acoustic piano.

Semi-weighted keys: Provide some resistance and feel more like an acoustic piano, offering a good middle ground between ease of play and realistic key action.

Fully weighted keys: These mimic the feel of a traditional piano, offering resistance that helps you build finger strength and technique. If you plan to advance in your piano skills, fully weighted keys are a good investment.

4. Built-in Features

Many modern keyboards come with a range of features that can make practice easier and more enjoyable.

Learning modes: Many beginner keyboards include built-in lessons, accompaniment styles, and metronomes, which can help guide your practice.

Polyphony: This refers to the number of notes a keyboard can play simultaneously. The higher the polyphony, the more complex and layered your music can be without cutting off previous notes.

Sound quality: Look for keyboards that offer sound sampling from acoustic pianos. This will ensure that the sound produced is rich, authentic, and pleasing to the ear.

5. Portability

If you need to move your keyboard around frequently, or if space is a concern, portability is key. Some keyboards are lightweight and designed to be easily transported, while others may offer a more permanent setup for home use.

Portable keyboards: Lightweight models such as the Roland GO or Yamaha PSR-E373 are perfect for musicians on the go or those with limited space.

Home-use keyboards: Larger models with 88 keys, such as the Yamaha P-125 or Roland FP-30X, are more suitable for dedicated practice spaces and offer a more robust playing experience.

Recommended Keyboards for Beginners

For those just starting out, it’s important to find a keyboard that is easy to use but still offers the features you need to grow as a musician.

Yamaha PSR-E373: With 61 keys and intuitive controls, this is a great beginner model with realistic sound and useful learning features.
 
PSR-E373

Casio  WK-7600 : Known for its excellent sound quality and wide range of tones, this is a fantastic choice for those just getting started.

 
WK-7600

Recommended Keyboards for Serious Learners

If you’re looking for a more professional experience or plan to pursue piano playing more seriously, these models offer advanced features and a full range of notes.

Yamaha P-125: With 88 fully weighted keys, this model provides an authentic piano feel and sound.

Roland FP-30X: This 88-key piano offers exceptional sound quality and fully weighted keys, making it perfect for intermediate to advanced players.

When choosing a keyboard piano, consider your current skill level, the number of keys you need, the type of key action, and any additional features that might enhance your practice. For beginners, portable and easy-to-use models like the Yamaha PSR-E373 or Casio CT-X700 are great choices. If you’re more advanced or serious about learning, models like the Yamaha P-125 or Roland FP-30X offer a more authentic playing experience.

By understanding your needs and preferences, you’ll be able to select the perfect keyboard piano that fits both your musical journey and your budget.