Scale learner with limited space
You want to practise major scales independently and find out whether a shorter keyboard offers enough range. Yamaha’s CK61 has 61 keys; check that your exercises fit within that range.
Who is this guide for?
Piano learner practising touch
You want to practise a piano-focused touch as well as playing the notes, and need room for an 88-key instrument. Compare the keyboard action and, if possible, try it out.
Practising in a shared space
You want to fit your instrument into a limited space and be able to listen through headphones. So check the listening options on the exact model you’re considering.
What should you look for when choosing?
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key range and width | Compare the requirements of your exercises with the key range, and measure the width you’ll need, including room for your arms. | If my practice space is narrow, I want to know whether my scales will fit on a shorter keyboard. Around 36% of this group are consumers who focus mainly on key range versus available width. |
| Touch | Compare the keyboard action on the exact models and try it out if possible. | If I also want to practise a piano-focused touch, I look beyond the number of keys. Around 29% of consumers prioritise touch and piano-focused practice. |
| Listening options | Check whether the model has built-in speakers and what type of headphone socket it has. | In a shared space, I want to practise using a listening option that suits my situation. Around 21% of consumers focus mainly on listening without relying on built-in speakers. |
| Complete setup | Measure the depth with the music stand in place, and allow for the stand, seat and playing space; also check which parts are included. | If the piano needs to fit in a fixed space, I want to know the dimensions of the complete playing setup. Around 14% of consumers prioritise the setup and the parts needed. |
Common mistakes
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Comparing depth without the music stand
The depth you need may change when you use a music stand. Yamaha lists the P-225 as 272 mm deep without the stand and 362 mm with it; Korg lists the D1 at 263 and 375 mm respectively.
Measure the setup as you’ll use it while practising.
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Assuming every stage piano has built-in speakers
Korg describes the D1 as a model without built-in speakers. Roland lists built-in speakers for the FP-10.
Check the listening options and connections on the exact model before choosing.
With a model that has no speakers, you’ll need suitable listening equipment to hear the sound.
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Assuming a shorter keyboard is suitable for every lesson
The Yamaha CK61 has 61 FSB keys; the P-225 has 88 GHC keys. Both the range and the type of keyboard action differ.
Compare the requirements of your exercises with the instrument’s key range and touch.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
The CK61 is a shorter stage keyboard; the P-225 is a portable, piano-focused option with 88 keys.
- Yamaha says the CK61 has 61 FSB keys, built-in speakers and a headphone socket.
- Yamaha specifies 88 GHC keys and a width of 1.326 mm for the P-225.
- These features apply to the models mentioned and don’t, by themselves, tell you whether the key range suits your exercises.
Casio
The CDP-S110 is a portable digital piano worth considering if the instrument’s depth is important to you.
- Casio lists a case depth of 232 mm, a scaled hammer-action keyboard and an SP-3 pedal.
- The case depth doesn’t automatically tell you how much space the complete playing setup will take up.
Roland
The FP-10 is an 88-key portable piano for practising at home.
- Roland lists a PHA-4 Standard keyboard, built-in speakers, headphone use and a metronome.
- Roland’s claims about sound or playing feel are the manufacturer’s own, not the result of an independent comparison.
Korg
The D1 is a slim 88-key option for anyone who can practise with headphones or external speakers.
- Korg specifies RH3 keys and a headphone socket.
- The D1 has no built-in speakers. Korg says the piano is 375 mm deep with the music stand; the stand is sold separately.
Joybuy products
These products have 61 keys and are worth considering if your exercises fit within that range.
No image available
MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black, weighted keyboard
May be suitable if you’re practising major scales within the range of 61 keys.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard, speakers and a headphone socket.
No image available
Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
A 61-key option to consider if your exercises fit within that range.
The product name lists speakers, a metronome and a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Are 61 keys enough to practise major scales?
It depends on the octaves, starting positions and any lesson exercises you want to play. Yamaha lists 61 keys for the CK61; compare the range of your exercises before choosing a shorter keyboard.
What should you measure if you practise with sheet music?
Measure the setup as you’ll use it, including the music stand. Yamaha lists the P-225 as 272 mm deep without the stand and 362 mm with it; Korg lists the D1 at 263 and 375 mm respectively. Also allow room for the stand, seat and playing movements.
Can you practise without separate speakers?
It varies by model. Roland lists built-in speakers for the FP-10; Korg describes the D1 as a model without speakers but with a headphone socket. Check which listening option you want to use.
What can you do if a piano you bought online turns out to be faulty?
For a consumer purchase in the Netherlands, the seller is your point of contact if a product isn’t working properly; the Dutch Government says the seller must resolve the problem or ask the manufacturer to do so. Online purchases also often come with a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to exceptions.