Who is this relevant for?

Practising at a small table

You want to put your instrument away after practising, so you compare its full width and depth with the space available and the chord shapes you need to play.

Player looking to use both hands

You’re practising chord changes and may also want room for left-hand accompaniment and a melody. That’s why you compare a smaller keyboard with a 61-key model.

Practising with music software

You already have a suitable computer setup and are considering a slim MIDI controller instead of a keyboard that produces sound on its own.

What should you look for when choosing?

Start with where you’ll play and which parts you want to practise at the same time. Then check whether you need a standalone instrument or a computer setup.

Factor to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Overall dimensions Measure the space available and compare both the width and depth of the instrument. Yamaha lists the PSS-A50 as measuring 506 × 201 mm; according to Casio, the CT-S300 measures 930 × 256 mm. If I have limited table space, I want to be sure the whole instrument will fit and can be put away after practising. Around 36% of consumers say space is their top priority.
Physical playing range Think about which chords and any second part you want to play at the same time. Octave buttons change the register, but they don’t add any physical keys. If I want to combine left-hand accompaniment with a melody, the range of keys needs to suit the parts I’m playing. Around 29% of consumers prioritise playing range.
Practising independently Check the built-in sounds and speakers, the headphone socket, and which power supply comes with the model. Yamaha states that the USB power adaptor for the PSS-A50 is sold separately. If I want to get started without a computer, I’m looking for an instrument that produces sound on its own, and I’ll check whether the required power supply is included. Around 21% of consumers prioritise being able to practise straight away.
Computer and software Check that your computer, music software, USB connection and audio playback are all compatible. Korg describes the microKEY2 as a controller for music software. If I already have a suitable software setup, a slim controller could suit the way I practise. Around 14% of consumers start with the software setup they already have.

Things to watch out for when buying

  • Comparing only the number of keys

    Models with the same number of keys can still differ in width and depth. An instrument may therefore take up more space than you’d expect based on the number of keys alone.

    Measure the space available and compare the overall dimensions of the model you’re considering.

  • Assuming a MIDI controller is a standalone keyboard

    The Korg microKEY2 is designed for use with music software. It isn’t a standalone alternative with its own sounds and speaker.

    Choose a standalone keyboard if you want to practise without a computer. Choose a controller if the required software setup suits the way you work.

  • Assuming a power supply and headphones are always included

    What’s included can vary between models. Yamaha states that the USB power adaptor for the PSS-A50 is sold separately.

    Check what’s included in the package and make sure the connection is compatible with your power supply and headphones.

Brands to consider

Yamaha

The PSS-A50 is an example of a standalone mini keyboard for short practice patterns in a small space.

  • Yamaha lists 37 touch-sensitive mini keys, a metronome, a speaker and a headphone/output socket; the dimensions are 506 × 201 mm.
  • The physical playing range is limited. The USB power adaptor is sold separately.

Casio

The CT-S300 is a standalone 61-key model for those with room for a wider playing range.

  • Casio lists touch response, built-in speakers and dimensions of 930 × 256 × 73 mm.
  • Check what’s included with each model and whether the instrument will fit in the space you have in mind.

Korg

The microKEY2-37 is a compact MIDI controller designed for use with a computer.

  • Korg lists 37 mini keys, USB power and dimensions of 565 × 139 × 54 mm for this version.
  • The controller is designed for use with music software and doesn’t produce sound on its own like a keyboard with built-in sounds and a speaker.

Roland

The GO:KEYS 3 is a standalone 61-key model for those who also want to explore chord progressions and accompaniment.

  • Roland describes chord progressions and accompaniment as features of the GO:KEYS 3.
  • Check the overall dimensions and required connections to see whether the model will fit in your practice space.

Joybuy products

This selection focuses on practising independently with a 61-key keyboard.

61-key electronic keyboard, black

Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black

The 61 keys and built-in speakers make this a good fit if you want to practise independently. The metronome can also come in handy when practising chord changes.

The title mentions a metronome, recording function and USB-MIDI. The product description also mentions built-in speakers and a music stand.

View at Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Are 37 keys enough to practise chord changes?

A 37-key keyboard may be enough for short chord patterns, as long as your chord shapes and any melody fit within its physical range. A Dutch buying guide recommends at least 49 keys if you want to play left-hand accompaniment alongside a part with your right hand. This is buying advice, not a strict requirement for every player.

How can you practise without an additional computer setup?

Choose a standalone keyboard with its own sounds and speakers, and check which power supply comes with the model before buying. If you want to practise with headphones, check that the connection is compatible too. A USB MIDI controller such as the Korg microKEY2 is designed for use with music software.

What can you do if the keyboard doesn’t fit after you’ve bought it?

For online consumer purchases in the Netherlands, you generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, subject to exceptions. ACM ConsuWijzer explains these rules. If a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for the statutory guarantee. These are separate rights.

What should you bear in mind when practising in a flat?

If noise is disturbing others, the Dutch Government recommends talking to your neighbours and agreeing on arrangements first. Also check any house rules set by your landlord or residents’ association.