Practising in a small space
You want to put your keyboard away after practising, or you have limited width available. Compare the instrument’s dimensions with your own set-up, not just the number of keys.
Who is this guide for?
Practising across a wider range
You want to practise scales across more octaves or play with both hands. So compare the range of 61, 76 or 88 keys with the notes in your exercises.
Practising piano technique
You’re paying attention not only to the right notes, but also to dynamics and how the keys feel. Touch sensitivity and hammer action are different features.
What should you look for when buying?
First, check the range of your exercises, then make sure the instrument fits your preferred set-up. Next, choose the key feel and connections that suit the way you practise.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and storage | Measure the available width and depth, including the space for a stand or table. Yamaha lists dimensions of 1052 × 260 mm for the NP-15 and 1260 × 260 mm for the NP-35. Korg lists dimensions of 1282 × 290 mm for the Liano, including protruding parts but excluding the music rest. | If you want to put the instrument away after practising, you’ll need to know how much space the complete set-up takes up. Around 33% of consumers put space and storage first. |
| Scale range | Note the lowest and highest notes in your exercises and compare them with the range of the exact model. Check again if you plan to add more octaves or a left-hand part. | If your exercises need to include every note without you having to move them, check the range before you buy. Around 27% of consumers give range the highest priority. |
| Key feel and dynamics | Check touch sensitivity and the type of key action separately. Yamaha describes the NP-15 as touch-sensitive with a light key feel; Korg describes the Liano as touch-sensitive. Roland lists a PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-10. | If you want to practise playing both softly and forcefully, or you’re looking for a specific piano-style key action, consider both features. Around 20% of consumers put key feel and dynamics first. |
| Practising in a shared space | Check whether the exact model has a headphone socket and a metronome, and whether your headphones are compatible. Yamaha lists both for the NP-15; Korg lists both for the Liano. | If you share the space with others, you’ll want to listen to the electronic sound through compatible headphones. Around 20% of consumers give quiet practice the highest priority. |
Common pitfalls
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Comparing only the number of keys
A shorter instrument takes up less space, but your chosen exercise still needs to fit within its range.
Before choosing between 61, 76 and 88 keys, check the lowest and highest notes and the number of octaves in your sheet music or lesson instructions.
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Confusing touch sensitivity with hammer action
Touch sensitivity and the mechanical feel of the keys meet different practice needs. One feature doesn’t prove that an instrument has hammer action.
Look for touch sensitivity and key action as separate specifications. Compare the Liano and the FP-10 on these points if piano technique is your goal.
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Measuring only the instrument itself
The available space also needs to accommodate the way you plan to set up the instrument. Korg states that the stand for the Liano is sold separately.
Measure your whole practice area and check which parts are included in the specific listing.
You may need to buy a suitable stand or other set-up separately.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
The NP series is designed for piano playing with a light key feel; the PSR-E383 adds lesson and accompaniment features.
- Yamaha lists touch sensitivity and a metronome for the NP-15 and NP-35. For the NP-15, Yamaha also lists a headphone socket.
- The NP-15 and NP-35 have 61 and 76 keys respectively. The NP series’ light key feel does not mean it has hammer action.
Korg
The Liano is a slim digital piano for those looking for 88 keys without starting with a traditional upright piano.
- Korg lists 88 touch-sensitive keys and a metronome for the Liano. Its stated width is 1282 mm, including protruding parts but excluding the music rest.
- The LS key action shouldn’t automatically be considered hammer action. Korg states that the stand is sold separately.
Roland
The FP-10 is an 88-key option with a piano-style key action; the GO:KEYS 3 is a 61-key keyboard with creative playing and accompaniment features.
- Roland lists the PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-10.
- The sounds and accompaniments on the GO:KEYS 3 aren’t essential for practising major scales. The product information mentioned here is not an independent performance comparison.
Casio
The CT-S1 is designed for simple operation and portability.
- Casio describes the CT-S1’s minimalist design and its ability to run on batteries.
- Check the number of keys, connections and included power supply for the exact model.
Joybuy products
This selection focuses on a 61-key keyboard for practising scales that fit within its available range.
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MLS-931 digital keyboard, 61 keys, black
This model may suit scale exercises that fit within the range of 61 keys.
The product description lists a built-in metronome, a headphone socket and USB-MIDI.
The product name mentions weighted keys; check the description for the exact model if you’re looking for a specific key action.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to buy an 88-key keyboard for every major scale?
No, not just because of the name of the scale. Compare the lowest and highest notes and the number of octaves in your own exercise with the range of the exact keyboard. The models discussed include versions with 61, 76 and 88 keys.
How can you set up a small practice area?
Measure the space for both the instrument and the stand or table you plan to use. Korg lists the Liano’s dimensions as including protruding parts but excluding the music rest, and the stand is sold separately. Set up the instrument securely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
What should you check if you want to practise with headphones?
Check the connection on the exact model and make sure your headphone plug fits. Yamaha lists a headphone socket for the NP-15 and NP-35; Korg lists one for the Liano. Headphones won’t eliminate the physical sound of the keys.
What warranty applies to a keyboard bought in the Netherlands?
According to ACM ConsuWijzer, when you use a product normally, you’re entitled to one that meets what you could reasonably expect. If it breaks sooner, the seller is responsible for providing an appropriate solution at no cost. The legal guarantee is not simply a fixed two-year period.