Who is this instrument for?

Singer accompanying themselves

Wants to practise melodies and chords at home, perhaps with built-in accompaniment. Check that the accompaniment and key work for each song.

Piano part player

Wants to focus on practising dynamics, keyboard range and playing feel. Yamaha lists touch-sensitive keys for the PSR-E383 and 88 weighted keys for the P-145; these are different types of keyboard.

Home recorder

Wants to record their playing on a computer and needs to distinguish between MIDI performance data and the instrument’s audio signal. Yamaha lists USB audio/MIDI for the PSR-E383; Korg lists USB MIDI for the EK-50.

What should you look for when choosing?

First decide whether you’ll mainly play piano, accompany yourself or record; then check the keyboard range and connections you’ll need for the way you plan to use it.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Melody and piano dynamics Check the keyboard range and whether the part calls for a weighted keyboard; also look for touch sensitivity. If I want to practise the piano part and its dynamics, playing feel comes first; around 33% of consumers prioritise piano playing and dynamics.
Accompaniment for singing or melodies Check whether you can set the chords, tempo, arrangement and key for your song. If I want to accompany myself, I’m looking for rhythms and chords that suit the way I practise; around 27% of consumers give built-in accompaniment top priority.
Recording at home Check whether the model supports USB MIDI, USB audio or both, and which connection your computer needs. If I want to record or edit my keyboard part on a computer, I need to understand the difference between MIDI and audio; around 20% of consumers prioritise studio recording.
Quiet, practical practice Check the size of the headphone socket and the pedal connection, and see what’s included with the instrument. If I want to practise at home with headphones, I need to know which connections and accessories will work with my setup; around 20% of consumers give quiet practice top priority.

Common buying mistakes

  • Confusing USB MIDI with USB audio

    USB MIDI transmits performance data; it doesn’t automatically mean you can digitally record the sound of the built-in voices. Yamaha lists USB audio/MIDI for the PSR-E383; Korg lists USB MIDI for the EK-50.

    Decide whether you want to record MIDI notes, the keyboard’s sound as audio, or both, and check that the exact model supports the features you need.

    If the instrument doesn’t provide the audio output you need, you may need additional recording equipment.

  • Assuming a lightweight keyboard action is the same as weighted piano keys

    Touch-sensitive keys and 88 weighted keys are different types of keyboard. So a compact keyboard won’t necessarily suit you if you’re practising on a weighted piano keyboard.

    Compare the part and your lesson goals with the keyboard range, and try both types of keyboard if possible.

  • Expecting a built-in style to recreate the musical’s accompaniment

    Manufacturers describe accompaniment styles that respond to chords, but that doesn’t guarantee the original orchestral part for your song is available.

    Check the chord structure and distinguish between practice accompaniment and the original arrangement.

  • Assuming a pedal or headphones are included

    A connection being available doesn’t tell you what’s in the box. Korg states that pedals for the EK-50 are sold separately.

    Check what’s included with each listing and which connection types you’ll need.

    You may need to buy suitable pedals separately for the EK-50.

Brands and models mentioned

The features below apply to the models mentioned; they are not general statements about every product from these brands.

Yamaha

The PSR-E383 and PSR-E483 are keyboards with accompaniment; the P-145 is a separate digital piano option.

  • According to Yamaha, the PSR-E383 has touch-sensitive keys and a USB audio/MIDI interface. Yamaha says the PSR-E483 has 345 styles and recording features.
  • According to Yamaha, the P-145 has 88 weighted keys; this feature applies to this model, not the PSR-series keyboards.

Casio

According to Casio, the CT-S1 is designed for choosing sounds and easy practice at home.

  • Casio lists 61 sounds for the CT-S1, including piano and organ, as well as the option of battery power.
  • Check the exact version and its connections; the product description isn’t an independent comparison of sound quality.

Korg

According to Korg, the EK-50 is an arranger keyboard with automatic accompaniment styles.

  • Korg specifies 61 touch-sensitive keys, USB MIDI and separate audio outputs for the EK-50.
  • USB MIDI doesn’t automatically mean USB audio. Korg also states that the EK-50 doesn’t support half-pedalling.

Roland

According to Roland, the GO:KEYS 3 focuses on sounds and accompaniment; the GO:KEYS 5 is a separate model in the same range.

  • Roland describes the GO:KEYS 3 as having a 61-key keyboard, built-in sounds and accompaniment. Chord Director supports chord patterns on the GO:KEYS 3 and GO:KEYS 5.
  • Don’t assume both models have the same connections or included accessories; check the specifications for the exact version.

Related products at Joybuy

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need 61 or 88 keys to learn a musical number?

It depends on the part and your practice goals: check the required keyboard range and whether you want to practise piano technique on weighted keys. Bax Music cites 61 keys as a common choice for keyboards; Yamaha specifies 88 weighted keys for the P-145.

Can I connect the keyboard directly to my recording computer?

You can use the features supported by the exact model. Yamaha lists USB audio and MIDI for the PSR-E383; Korg lists USB MIDI for the EK-50. Check whether you want to record your performance data, the keyboard’s sound or both.

What do I need to practise quietly?

Check the headphone socket and whether a suitable pedal and mains adapter are included with your version or need to be bought separately. Korg lists an included adapter and separately available pedals for the EK-50.

What are the rules on returns and warranties in the Netherlands?

For a standard online consumer purchase, you’ll generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, although exceptions apply. According to the Government of the Netherlands, there is no fixed statutory two-year warranty period for every product. If a product is faulty, contact the seller.

Can I share a recording of a musical number online?

Don’t assume that a recording made for your own practice can also be shared online. The Government of the Netherlands distinguishes between a private copy for personal use and distributing or publishing protected music. Before sharing your recording, check which rights and permissions you need.