Piano technique student
You want to practise broken chords with a piano-like touch across a wide range, and can make room for an 88-key instrument. Yamaha, Roland and Korg describe 88-key models in their product information.
Who is this option right for?
Quiet home player
You share your home or practise at quieter times, and want to listen through suitable headphones. Bear in mind that key noise may still be audible, and consider the needs of housemates or neighbours. The Casio manual explains that connecting headphones mutes the built-in speakers.
Beginner short on space
You want to get started in a small spare room and are looking for a smaller instrument or built-in practice features. Casio describes the CT-S1 as a compact keyboard, while Yamaha lists touch-sensitive keys and lesson functions for the PSR-E383.
What should you look for when buying?
First, compare the key range and touch with the exercises you want to play. Then check whether the instrument will fit in your room, and whether headphone use or built-in practice features matter to you.
88-key digital piano
A good fit if: you want to practise broken chords across a wider range with a piano-like touch, and have enough space.
The trade-off: it takes up more room than a compact 61-key keyboard. Also check whether the version includes a stand and the pedal you want.
Compact 61-key keyboard
A good fit if: space is your priority and the notes in your exercises fall within the available range. Yamaha lists lesson and accompaniment features for the PSR-E383, while Casio describes the CT-S1 as compact.
The trade-off: it has a smaller range than the 88-key pianos mentioned here. Also check that the key type offers the touch you’re looking for.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who should pay extra attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch and playing range | Compare the number of keys and the key type on the exact model with your exercises. Try the touch yourself if possible. | If a piano-like touch and room to play across several registers are important to me, I choose an instrument to suit. Around 31% of consumers prioritise key touch and playing range. |
| Listening without unnecessarily disturbing others | Check the model’s headphone socket and the type of plug it takes. According to the manual, the Casio CT-S1’s built-in speakers are muted when you connect headphones. | I sometimes practise while other people are at home and want to listen through headphones rather than speakers. Around 31% of consumers say quiet practice is their top priority. |
| Space for the instrument and setup | Measure the available width and depth, allowing for a stand, music rest and playing space. Compare these with the dimensions of the version you’re considering. | My instrument and setup need to fit in a small spare room. Around 23% of consumers prioritise the space available. |
| Help with practising independently | Decide whether you’re mainly looking for a metronome or also want lesson and accompaniment features. Compare the features of the exact model. | When I practise alone, I want tools that suit the way I work, such as a metronome or lesson features. Around 15% of consumers prioritise practice aids. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming headphones mean nobody will hear you
Headphones can mute the speakers, but that doesn’t mean key or contact noise will be inaudible. Whether it causes a disturbance also depends on your home and circumstances.
Check the headphone function on the exact model, and consider housemates and neighbours when planning your practice times.
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Treating a 61-key keyboard and an 88-key piano as the same practice instrument
The models discussed differ in their key range and stated key type. This may matter if you practise broken chords across several registers.
Before comparing extra sounds or features, check the specifications against your exercises and the touch you want.
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Assuming a pedal or full setup is always included
With some versions, a stand or extra pedal is optional. For example, Roland lists the DP-10 as an optional pedal for the FP-10.
Compare what’s included in the exact offer with the setup you want and how you plan to use a pedal.
A suitable stand or the extra pedal you want may need to be bought separately, so check what’s included with the version you choose.
Brands to compare
Yamaha
The P-145BT is a portable 88-key piano, while the PSR-E383 is a 61-key keyboard with touch-sensitive keys and lesson features. The models may suit different practice preferences.
- Yamaha lists a GHC keyboard for the P-145BT, and touch sensitivity and lesson features for the PSR-E383.
- These are features of individual models and don’t, in themselves, tell you whether both are available on Joybuy.
Casio
The CT-S1 is a compact 61-key option for anyone looking for a smaller setup.
- Casio describes the CT-S1 as compact. According to the manual, connecting headphones mutes the built-in speakers.
- Its key range is smaller than that of the 88-key models mentioned here. Casio’s descriptions of its sounds are manufacturer claims, not independent measurements.
Roland
According to Roland, the FP-10 is a portable, piano-focused 88-key option with headphone use and a metronome.
- Roland lists a PHA-4 keyboard and a metronome for the FP-10.
- The DP-10 pedal is optional. Roland says Bluetooth availability may vary by country of purchase, so check the version you’re considering.
Korg
According to Korg’s Dutch product information, the B2+ is an 88-key digital piano with a PHONES socket.
- The listed connections and key range make this model worth considering if you want to practise piano and listen privately.
- Check which stand and pedals are included with each version on sale. A pedal socket doesn’t automatically mean a pedal is included.
Joybuy products for practising on 61 keys
These compact 61-key instruments are for anyone who wants to practise broken chords in a limited space.
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MLS-931 digital keyboard, 61 keys, black
A good fit if you’re looking for a 61-key instrument to practise broken chords in a limited space.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard, headphone socket, speakers and music rest. Its range is smaller than that of the 88-key pianos discussed here.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
An option if you’re looking for a 61-key instrument to practise in a smaller room.
The product name lists a metronome, speakers, recording function and music rest. Its range is smaller than that of the 88-key pianos discussed here.
Frequently asked questions
Are 61 keys enough for your broken chords?
It depends on the range of your exercises. A compact 61-key keyboard may suit you if the notes fall within its range. If you need a wider piano range, compare 88-key models.
Can you practise with headphones without sound coming from the speakers?
According to the manual, connecting headphones to the Casio CT-S1 mutes its built-in speakers. Check the socket and plug size separately for any other model. Headphones don’t guarantee that key noise will be inaudible.
How can you tell whether the instrument will fit in your spare room?
Measure the space available for the instrument and setup, and compare it with the dimensions of the exact version. Leave room for the player too, and check whether you’ll need a stand or music rest.
Can you practise in your spare room at any time?
Whether a practice time is appropriate depends in part on local rules and your living situation. The Dutch government states that nuisance to neighbours may be covered by the General Local By-law in many municipalities. Check your council’s rules and be considerate of housemates and neighbours.