Choose based on the lowest and highest notes in your intro. A 61-key keyboard may be suitable if the piece falls within its range and you want to practise straight away using built-in sounds. In a shared space, a headphone socket on the exact model is useful; an 88-key keyboard is worth considering if your intro or practice goals call for the extra range. Also check the power supply, included accessories and safety information for the model you plan to buy.
You want to practise the notes, touch and timing of a song intro on your own. First, compare the range of your piece with the keyboard’s range. Yamaha says the PSR-E383 has touch-sensitive keys, so you can practise playing with different levels of pressure.
You want to listen to the electronic sound through headphones while other people are using the room. Check whether the exact model has a suitable headphone socket; headphones won’t silence the mechanical sound of the keys.
You take your keyboard with you after a practice session or put it away. So check the dimensions, weight and power options of the model you’re considering.
Start with the key range your song intro requires, then check which connections, features and dimensions will suit your practice space.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Key range and touch response | Compare the lowest and highest notes in your intro with the range of the exact model; also check whether the keys are touch-sensitive. | I want to play the whole intro and practise my touch. Around 36% of consumers say being able to play the intro is their main reason for buying. |
| Practising with headphones | Check whether there’s a headphone output, what type of socket it has and whether any adapter you need is included. | If I share the music room, I want to listen to the electronic sound privately. Around 29% of consumers put avoiding disturbing others first. |
| Moving and setting up | Measure the space available and check the model’s dimensions, weight and power options. | I need to move or put away the instrument after practising, and want to know what I’ll need to take with me. Around 21% of consumers consider moving and setting up the most important factor. |
| Accompaniment or extra range | Decide whether your intro needs extra keys or a specific accompaniment; consider the type of key action separately from the number of keys. | If my piece needs a wider range or I want to practise with accompaniment, I’ll look specifically for that feature. Around 14% of consumers say accompaniment or extra key range is their top priority. |
The number of keys and the key action are different features. A 61-key instrument doesn’t have the same range as an 88-key model.
Check the highest and lowest notes in your intro, as well as the description of the key action. Don’t assume a model has a weighted hammer action just because of its key count.
The contents of a product bundle can vary between models. Headphones, an adapter or a pedal may not be included.
Check the connections and the contents of the exact bundle before ordering.
The MLS-931 is described as having both ‘touch-sensitive keys’ and a ‘weighted keyboard’. Those terms alone don’t make it clear what type of key action the model has.
If you’re unsure, ask for the technical description of the keyboard before choosing it for piano-focused practice.
These models illustrate different trade-offs in key range, portability and practising with accompaniment. The features listed apply to the models described, not necessarily to the entire brand.
The PSR-E383 is a standalone 61-key keyboard for anyone who wants to practise straight away using built-in sounds.
The CT-S300 is a portable Casiotone option that you can take between practice spaces.
The Liano is a piano-focused digital option with a wider key range.
These models are designed for practising on a compact 61-key keyboard, with built-in sounds and the option to listen through headphones.
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For practising with built-in sounds and rhythms; the listing also mentions a headphone socket for private listening.
The product information lists 61 keys, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, built-in speakers, USB-MIDI, a recording function and a metronome.
The listing also uses the term ‘weighted keyboard’. Check exactly what type of key action this model has; 61 keys offer a narrower range than an 88-key model.
Before buying, check the product and safety information for this exact model.
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A set for setting up a keyboard on a stand with a stool in your practice space; the product information also mentions speakers and a headphone socket.
The product name lists 61 keys, 500 sounds and a three-level learning mode.
Check the connections, bundle contents, and product and safety information for this exact model. The keyboard has 61 keys, so compare its range with your intro.
It depends on the lowest and highest notes in your intro. Compare them with the range of the model you’re considering: Yamaha lists 61 keys for the PSR-E383, while Korg lists 88 keys for the Liano.
A headphone socket lets you listen to the electronic sound through headphones. Check the connection and whether you need an adapter for the exact model; the keys may still make mechanical noise.
Check that you have a suitable power supply, a stable place to set up the keyboard and, if needed, headphones with the right connection. Korg lists an adapter and music rest for the Liano; don’t assume other models or versions come with the same items.
According to the Dutch government, electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must meet the applicable safety requirements and carry a CE mark. Check the product and safety information for the exact model; an online description or CE logo alone doesn’t confirm that all requirements have been met.
For an online purchase by a consumer in the Netherlands, the statutory cooling-off period is generally up to 14 days after delivery. ACM ConsuWijzer explains that the 14-day period ends 14 days after delivery; check the terms and any exceptions that apply to your purchase.
