Learning a tune with limited space
Are you mainly looking to learn a tune and keep your instrument in a small space? A 61-key keyboard could be a good fit if the music falls within its range. Casio and Alesis have examples in this category.
Which option is right for you?
Learning piano with limited space
Would you like to practise with weighted keys and a wider range as well as learning a tune? A portable 88-key model could be an option, provided the complete set-up fits. Yamaha, Roland, Casio and Kawai all have models in this category.
Practising at home with headphones
Would you like to practise without using the built-in speakers? Check that the exact model has a headphone socket. Headphones won’t block out the mechanical sound of the keys.
What should you look for when choosing?
Compact 61-key keyboard
Choose this option: if the tune fits within its range and a shorter instrument is your priority.
Bear in mind: the smaller range and the difference between semi-weighted and weighted keys.
Portable piano with 88 weighted keys
Choose this option: if you’d also like to practise piano technique or pieces with a wider range, and the set-up will fit.
Bear in mind: the width you’ll need, as well as space for a stand, a seat and a music rest.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Space for the complete set-up | Measure the available width and depth, including the stand and music rest. | If space is limited, I want to know whether the instrument will fit with the music rest and stand in place. Around 36% of consumers put available space first. |
| Key range and touch | Compare 61 and 88 keys with the tune and any lessons you might take in future. Check the key action too. | If I want to practise piano technique and music with a wider range, the keys are my main priority. Around 29% of consumers give this the highest priority. |
| Practising with headphones | Check the socket on the exact model and make sure it’s compatible with your headphones. | If I want to practise without using the built-in speakers, I check the socket and bear in mind that the keys may still make a sound. Around 21% of consumers put this first. |
| Moving and storage | Check the weight, storage dimensions and how you’ll put the stand away after use. | If I need to put the instrument away after every practice session, easy storage matters to me. Around 14% of consumers choose this as their main consideration. |
Common mistakes
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Measuring only the depth of the piano
The space you need may change if you use a music rest or add a stand. Yamaha lists the P-145 as 272 mm deep without a music rest and 362 mm with one.
Measure the space for the complete set-up and compare dimensions on a like-for-like basis before choosing a model.
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Assuming a 61-key keyboard is the same as an 88-key piano
A shorter range and semi-weighted keys aren’t the same as an 88-key keyboard with weighted keys. This could matter if you want to move on to piano pieces or lessons that need a wider range.
Check the tune’s range and choose the type of keys to suit what you’d like to learn next.
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Assuming a pedal is included
What’s included depends on the version. Alesis says that the sustain pedal isn’t included with the Recital 61; this doesn’t tell you what comes with other models.
Check exactly what’s in the box for the version you’re buying and which pedal socket the instrument has.
Brands to consider
Casio
Offers both 61-key keyboards and slim digital pianos, so you can compare different types of keys within one brand.
- Casio lists the CDP-S110 as having a body depth of 232 mm.
- The 61-key CT-S1 and the CDP-S110 with piano-style keys are different models, not interchangeable versions.
Yamaha
The P-145 is a portable 88-key piano for anyone looking for piano-style keys without a traditional upright piano.
- Yamaha specifies a GHC keyboard and a width of 1.326 mm for the P-145.
- The listed depth is 272 mm without a music rest and 362 mm with one, so measure the complete set-up.
Roland
The FP-10 is a portable 88-key model for piano-focused practice.
- Roland lists the FP-10 as having a PHA-4 Standard keyboard, built-in speakers, headphone support and a metronome.
- Headphones won’t block out the mechanical sound of the keys. Also check which stand and pedal version you’ll need.
Kawai
The ES60 is a portable piano worth comparing if you’re looking for weighted keys and a front-mounted socket.
- Kawai lists a Responsive Hammer Lite keyboard, a weight of 11 kg and a front-mounted headphone socket.
- Descriptions of the playing feel and low mechanical noise come from Kawai; they aren’t independent measurements.
Alesis
The Recital 61 is an example of a shorter keyboard option if the tune fits within 61 keys.
- Alesis specifies 61 semi-weighted keys, built-in speakers and a headphone output.
- Alesis says the sustain pedal isn’t included. Check the exact version too.
Joybuy products
This selection focuses on compact 61-key keyboards for practising tunes that fit within that range.
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MLS-931 61-key keyboard, black, with weighted keys
This model is suited to practising tunes that fit within 61 keys.
The product title lists weighted keys, built-in speakers and a headphone socket.
Check that the tune fits within the range of 61 keys.
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61-key electronic keyboard with MIDI controller and recording function, black
The 61-key layout could be suitable for practising a tune if it fits within the range.
The product title lists a recording function, speakers, a metronome and a music rest.
Check in advance that the music fits within the range of 61 keys.
Frequently asked questions
Are 61 keys enough for your folk tune?
It depends on the range of the tune and any accompaniment. Compare the highest and lowest notes with the instrument’s range, and bear in mind that future piano pieces may need more keys.
What should you measure before setting up an instrument?
Measure the available width and depth for the complete playing area, including the stand and music rest. For example, Yamaha specifies a depth of 272 mm for the P-145 without a music rest and 362 mm with one; these dimensions don’t automatically apply to other models.
Can you practise without using the built-in speakers?
Yes, if the exact model has a compatible headphone socket. Roland lists headphone support for the FP-10, while Kawai lists a front-mounted socket for the ES60. Check that the plug fits, and bear in mind that the mechanical sound of the keys may still be audible.
Which accessories should you check for each version?
Check whether a stand, stool, music rest, adapter, batteries and pedal are included. For example, Alesis says the sustain pedal isn’t included with the Recital 61; check the exact version for other models too.
What cooling-off period applies when buying online from a business in the Netherlands?
According to the Dutch government, a 14-day cooling-off period generally applies to distance sales; the rule doesn’t necessarily apply to purchases from a private individual. This is separate from your rights if a product is faulty or not as described. There is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands, and the retailer is your point of contact if there’s a problem.