You’re thinking about buying a keyboard. That’s fantastic! A keyboard can be cost effective, easy to maintain, and a great way for a beginner to learn piano. 

However, you might be feeling a little lost or overwhelmed about how to make a decision about which keyboard to buy. There are so many sizes, brands, features and options!

This guide will help you cut through the confusion and help you find the right instrument for you so you can make a confident purchase. 

We want you to get:

• a quality instrument that won’t need replacing in a year
• a keybed that will support good practice technique for long-term success
• a great sounding instrument that will feel rich and full
• a budget-conscious option that is a great value

If this sounds good to you, keep reading! Here are four tips for finding the right instrument for you.

#1 Consider your budget

Define your budget before diving too deeply into looking at specific brands and models. Decide what a reasonable budget is for you first, and then look for the best option within that budget. Quality keyboards can range anywhere from $200 to $2000+.

If top-quality and longevity for your instrument is a top priority, you’ll want to purchase a keyboard from a brand known for its reliability and quality. 

If you are trying piano as a new hobby, you might want to consider a more economical brand or buying a used instrument.

For our list of recommended brands and models, download our complete guide here.

#2 New vs. used

A new keyboard is a great option if your budget allows, but there are often quality used keyboards for sale. Both are great choices!

Buying a new keyboard comes with the peace of mind that the keyboard is in good condition, and comes with a warranty.

Buying a used keyboard can get you a high quality instrument for a reduced price. When purchasing a used keyboard, use this checklist to make sure you are getting a quality, well-maintained instrument.

#3 Top-priority features

Here are two features you will definitely want in your first keyboard:

• Built-in speakers: Onboard speakers are the easiest solution for practicing (and sharing!) your music. If a keyboard doesn’t have onboard speakers, it requires using an amplifier (bulky and expensive) or headphones. 
• Sustain pedal: A must-have feature is a sustain pedal, as it is an essential part of playing piano. If your keyboard doesn’t come with a sustain pedal, that is 100% okay. You can buy one separately to plug in. 

#4 Nice-to-have features

These two features aren’t deal breakers, but we do highly recommend them: 

• 88-key keyboard: If your space allows, an 88-key keyboard is a great way to go. By going with a full-size keyboard, you won’t be limited in the songs or styles you are able to play. 
• Weighted keys: Weighted keys have the closest feel to an acoustic piano and will lead to the best long-term hand and finger technique. Practicing on a non-weighted keyboard will not strengthen your hands and fingers enough to be able to play on an acoustic piano with much stamina. Playing a weighted keyboard will require more physical effort initially, but it is absolutely an investment worth making to best develop your piano skills. 
  
  

And that’s it! If you keep these four tips in mind, you can make a keyboard purchase with confidence. 

For our specific brand and keyboard recommendations, be sure to get our complete guide here. 

It includes our recommendations from the most economical choice to the highest quality choice. 

What's next?

We know how hard it can be to get started playing piano! It can seem like there is so much to learn without a clear path to get there. 

So, we made a beginner’s piano course where we show you exactly what and how to practice. We take out all the guesswork so you know exactly what to do.

We are currently offering our “Beginner’s Bundle” promotion which includes our flagship course, Piano Foundations, along with our Chord Bootcamp and Sheet Music Accelerator courses all for a greatly discounted price! 

We’d love to see you thrive on piano, and we know you can do it. We’re here to help and cheer you on. 

Click here to learn more about the discounted bundle and enroll today!