Start with an instrument you can practise on using headphones and a comfortable volume. Then decide how many keys you need for your chord patterns. A 61- or 76-key keyboard may suit you if your exercises fit within that range and you need a compact set-up. Choose an 88-key digital piano if you want the full range and a weighted keyboard, and check the connections and dimensions of the exact model.
If you want to keep the sound from the built-in speakers down, look for a headphone socket and volume control. Using headphones does not automatically eliminate other audible sounds or possible disturbance.
If you want to play broken chords evenly and hear differences in how firmly you play, a metronome and touch sensitivity are useful features to look for.
If your exercises cover more keys, or you specifically want weighted keys, compare 76- and 88-key models and check how much space you have available.
Choose this if: your exercises fit within 61 keys and a compact set-up is important. Yamaha lists touch sensitivity, a metronome and a headphone socket for the PSR-E383.
Keep in mind: this model has a limited range and light, organ-style keys.
Choose this if: 61 keys may not be enough, but you don't need an 88-key keyboard. Casio lists 76 keys for the CT-S1-76BK.
Keep in mind: it does not offer the full range of an 88-key instrument. Check the connection and plug size of the model you're considering.
Choose this if: you want the full range or a weighted piano keyboard. Yamaha lists an 88-key GHC keyboard for the P-145; Roland lists an 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-30X.
Keep in mind: make room for the instrument and, if possible, try the keys for yourself. The keyboard specifications alone can't tell you which feel will suit you.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Practising without sound from the speakers | Check the headphone socket, plug size, volume control and speaker settings on the exact model. | If you want to practise at home with headphones and keep the sound from the speakers down, this should be one of your first considerations. Around 33% of consumers prioritise quiet practice. |
| Tempo and differences in touch | Check whether the model has a metronome and touch sensitivity; these features are not the same as a weighted keyboard. | If you want to practise broken chords at a steady tempo and distinguish between softer and firmer playing, look for both features. Around 27% of consumers prioritise tempo and dynamics. |
| Key range and space for your set-up | Compare the lowest and highest notes in your exercises with the number of keys, and measure the available width. | If you want to play your exercises within a suitable range without taking up more space than necessary, compare the number of keys and the dimensions. Around 20% of consumers give key range top priority. |
| Weighted touch | Check the keyboard action for the full model number and, if possible, try it for yourself. | If you're specifically looking for a weighted piano keyboard and compact size is less important, don't focus on the number of keys alone. Around 20% of consumers prioritise weighted touch. |
An 88-key instrument offers a wider range, but that range may not suit the space you have for practising. A 61-key instrument, on the other hand, may not cover all the notes in your piece.
First check the lowest and highest notes in your exercises, then measure the space available for your chosen model.
Touch sensitivity and a weighted keyboard are different features. Yamaha describes the PSR-E383 as having touch-sensitive, light organ-style keys, and the P-145 as a digital piano with a GHC keyboard.
Choose the type of keyboard action you want to practise on and, if possible, try the keys for yourself.
A headphone socket controls how you hear the electronic sound, but it does not automatically eliminate every other audible sound or all potential disturbance to neighbours. The speaker settings are also relevant on the FP-30X.
Check the speaker mode and consider your living situation and any arrangements you have with your neighbours.
The models mentioned range from a 61-key keyboard to an 88-key digital piano. These features apply to the specific models, not the brand as a whole.
The CT-S1-76BK is an example of a 76-key model for anyone looking for a range between 61 and 88 keys.
The FP-30X is an 88-key digital piano for buyers looking for a weighted keyboard and the option to practise with headphones.
These Joybuy products are suited to practising with headphones and chord patterns that fit within 61 keys. Before choosing, check which features suit your practice routine.
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A good fit for practising with headphones if the notes in your chord patterns fit within 61 keys.
The product name specifies a weighted keyboard; check that its range suits the exercises you want to play.
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May suit you if you want to use a metronome and your chord patterns fit within 61 keys.
The product information lists a metronome and a headphone socket; check the connection on the version you choose.
Check whether your model has a headphone socket and a metronome, then start at a low listening volume. Yamaha lists both features for the PSR-E383; the Roland FP-30X manual also explains how to use the metronome and headphone sockets.
Compare the dimensions of the exact model with the space available, and check the required headphone plug, power supply, stand and any pedal connection. Yamaha specifies a width of 1.326 mm for the P-145 and lists a stereo PHONES/OUTPUT connection for the PSR-E383.
If a product is faulty, the seller is responsible for the statutory guarantee; a manufacturer’s guarantee does not replace it, according to ACM ConsuWijzer. For online consumer purchases, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period after delivery, subject to legal exceptions. Check the terms before buying and handle the instrument carefully while trying it out.
Wearing headphones does not give you a general exemption from rules about disturbing your neighbours. According to the Dutch Government, local municipal by-laws may be relevant; agreeing music and practice times with your neighbours may also help. What time is appropriate depends on your municipality and living situation.
