Players focused on piano technique
If you want to practise across the full piano keyboard, check the number of keys and the type of key action. Yamaha specifies 88 GHC keys for the P-145; Roland lists 88 PHA-4 Standard keys for the FP-10.
Which option is right for you?
Players in a shared home
If other people are at home while you practise, check whether plugging in headphones switches off the built-in speakers. Also check whether the keys can be heard where you plan to put the instrument.
Players short on space
If your loft has limited space or you want to move the instrument between practice sessions, a 61-key keyboard may be more practical. Just make sure its range is sufficient for the exercises you want to play.
What should you look for when choosing?
First decide whether your exercises require the full piano range. Then consider the space available, whether you’ll use headphones and any built-in practice aids.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Piano range and key action | Compare the number of keys and the stated key action with the exercises you do. Yamaha lists 88 GHC keys for the P-145; the PSR-E383 has 61 touch-sensitive keys. | If I want to practise across the full piano range, I focus on the range and keyboard. Around 36% of consumers give piano range and key action the highest priority. |
| Practising with headphones | Check whether the model has a headphone socket and what happens to the built-in speakers when you plug in headphones. | If I practise while others are at home, I want to be able to switch off the speakers without assuming the keys themselves will be inaudible. Around 29% of consumers prioritise practising without sound from the speakers. |
| Space and portability | Measure the space and leave room for a sturdy stand, a seat and, if needed, a music rest. Compare the dimensions of the exact model. | If space is limited or I want to be able to put the instrument away, the space it takes up is an important consideration. Around 21% of consumers give available space and portability the highest priority. |
| Built-in practice aids | Check whether the specific model includes the features you want to use. Yamaha lists lesson functions for the PSR-E383; Roland lists a built-in metronome for the FP-10. | If I want to practise using built-in features without extra equipment, I check which functions the model actually has. Around 14% of consumers prioritise built-in practice aids. |
Common mistakes
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Confusing sounds with keys
The number of sounds tells you nothing about how many keys an instrument has. Casio lists 61 keys for the CT-S1; when comparing instruments, check the key count as a separate specification.
Check the key count, range of sounds and key action for the exact model.
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Assuming headphones silence everything
According to the manual, plugging headphones into the Casio CT-S1 switches off its built-in speakers. This doesn’t tell you whether housemates or neighbours can hear the keys being pressed.
Check the sound where you plan to set up the instrument and, if necessary, agree practice times with your housemates or neighbours.
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Comparing an instrument with a complete setup
What’s included in a bundle can affect which other items you’ll need. Korg lists a damper pedal as included with the B2+; the STB1 stand mentioned is sold separately.
Before buying, check what’s included in the specific bundle and which stand or pedals you’ll need.
A stand sold separately means making an additional choice and finding a suitable spot for it in your loft setup.
Brands worth considering
Yamaha
Yamaha offers both an 88-key digital piano and more compact 61-key keyboards.
- Yamaha specifies a GHC keyboard and a width of 1.326 mm for the P-145. For the PSR-E383, Yamaha lists touch-sensitive keys and lesson functions.
- The PSR-E383’s 61 keys don’t offer the full range of the P-145, and the models also have different types of key action.
Roland
The FP-10 is an option if you’re looking for a digital piano with a full-size keyboard and the ability to use headphones.
- Roland specifies 88 PHA-4 Standard keys and lists built-in speakers and headphone use.
- Roland’s statements about the playing feel are manufacturer claims, not an independent comparison with other keyboards.
Korg
The B2+ is an 88-key digital piano for practising across the full piano keyboard.
- Korg specifies 88 NH keys, a PHONES socket and an included damper pedal.
- The STB1 stand mentioned is sold separately, so check what’s included in the bundle you’re looking at.
Casio
The CT-S1 is a compact 61-key keyboard for anyone who needs to make the most of limited space.
- Casio lists 61 keys. According to the manual, plugging in headphones switches off the built-in speakers.
- Headphones switch off the speakers, but that doesn’t determine whether the keys can be heard where you set up the instrument.
Joybuy products
These options suit a compact keyboard setup for finger exercises in a space where room is a consideration.
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MLS-931 keyboard with 61 keys, black
Its 61 keys suit a compact keyboard setup; check that the range is suitable for your exercises.
The product name describes it as a weighted keyboard.
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Electronic keyboard with 61 keys, black
Its 61 keys suit exercises within that range; check that your exercises don’t require keys outside it.
The product name lists a MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music rest.
Frequently asked questions
Can you practise with headphones without anyone else hearing you?
Not necessarily. According to the manual, plugging headphones into the Casio CT-S1 switches off its built-in speakers, but that doesn’t prove that the keys themselves will be inaudible. Check this where you plan to practise.
How should you position and care for a keyboard instrument in the loft?
Set the instrument on a stable surface and avoid significant changes in temperature or humidity. Yamaha warns that these changes can cause condensation and advises against spraying liquid directly onto the keys. Follow the manual supplied with your model.
Do you need to arrange a stand or pedal separately?
That depends on the model and bundle. Korg lists a damper pedal as included with the B2+ and the STB1 stand as available separately, so check what’s included in the specific offer.
What are your rights when buying online from a Dutch retailer?
When you buy remotely from a business, you’ll often have a 14-day cooling-off period, but exceptions may apply and the type of seller matters. The Dutch government also states that you’re entitled to a product that works as it should, and that the Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period for all products. If there’s a fault, contact the seller.