Choose a standalone keyboard if you want to practise straight away without a computer, a digital piano if a full piano keyboard and plenty of space are important to you, or a MIDI controller if you want to play or record your exercises using studio software. Then compare the key action, dimensions and sound and computer connections you’ll need: MIDI data doesn’t produce sound on its own.
You want to play major scales without having to open studio software first, and care about the keyboard’s response and ease of use. Yamaha describes the PSR-E383 as a 61-key keyboard, while Casio lists touch response for the CT-S300.
You prioritise a full piano keyboard and have enough room for one. Yamaha specifies that the P-145 has 88 keys with a GHC keyboard and is 1,326 mm wide.
You want to use keys in your existing home studio to play software instruments or record your practice. Novation describes the Launchkey 61 as a controller with 61 semi-weighted keys and DAW control; you’ll also need a sound source to hear what you play.
Choose this if: you want to get started without a computer and having an onboard sound source matters to you.
Consider: compare the key action and key size with what you need for your practice.
Choose this if: you want to practise on a full piano keyboard.
Consider: check that the instrument will fit your studio setup; Yamaha says the P-145 is 1,326 mm wide.
Choose this if: you already use a computer and music software and want to add a keyboard to that setup.
Consider: MIDI doesn’t produce sound; you’ll need a software instrument or another sound source, and an audio output that’s been set up.
First decide whether you want to play independently, practise piano technique or use your existing DAW. Then check the keyboard, space and sound setup you’ll need.
| Consideration | What should you check? | Who is this important to? |
|---|---|---|
| Practise straight away | Compare a keyboard with its own sound source with a MIDI controller. Check the power supply, audio output and included accessories for the model you choose. | I want to play scales without having to start up a computer or DAW first. That’s why around 33% of consumers make independent practice their top buying priority. |
| Piano keyboard and space | Check the number of keys and keyboard type for the exact model, and measure the available width. | I want to practise on a full piano keyboard and can make room for one. For around 27% of consumers, a piano keyboard is the most important factor. |
| Working with a DAW | Check that the controller works with your computer and software, and that you have a software instrument and audio output set up. | I want to use my keyboard with the music software I already have, even if I need to set up an audio connection. DAW integration is the top priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Setup and quiet practice | Measure the space available for the instrument and any computer. Check which connections are available on the exact model. | I need to make the most of a compact workspace, or want to practise through my own audio setup. A compact or quiet setup is the top priority for around 20% of consumers. |
According to Novation, MIDI data contains control information, not sound. Unless you’ve set up a software instrument or another sound source, you won’t hear the notes you play.
Choose a standalone keyboard if you want to practise without a computer. Choose a controller if it suits your studio’s sound setup, and check that the audio output is configured correctly.
The number of keys alone doesn’t tell you how the keyboard feels to play. Yamaha describes the PSR-E383 as touch-sensitive; the P-145 has 88 keys with a GHC keyboard, according to Yamaha.
Decide whether you mainly want to play major scales or practise piano technique, then compare the keyboard types of the exact models you’re considering.
Yamaha specifies that the P-145 is 1,326 mm wide, which affects how much space you’ll need.
Measure the space available and factor in your stand and other equipment before choosing a model.
The examples below cover specific models that were researched and are not a judgement on a brand’s entire range.
The models reviewed show two different options: the standalone PSR-E383 and the P-145 digital piano.
The CT-S300 model reviewed is a standalone keyboard whose dimensions may affect your setup.
The Launchkey 61 model reviewed is designed to control music software in a home studio.
Choose a standalone keyboard if you want to get started without a computer; consider a digital piano if you want a full piano keyboard. According to Yamaha, the P-145 has 88 keys with a GHC keyboard. Manufacturer specifications can’t tell you which key action you’ll prefer, so take your own preferences into account.
According to Novation, MIDI data contains control information, not sound. Select a software instrument or use another sound source and set up the audio output. Also check the instructions for your controller and software.
Check in advance what the seller supplies and which connection accessories your setup requires. According to the Government of the Netherlands, online purchases from a business by consumers generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period; conditions and exceptions may apply to your specific purchase. The legal guarantee is your right to a product that works as it should, and there is no fixed statutory period for it in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority states that CE marking is compulsory for electrical products. This doesn’t confirm that a specific version on sale meets the requirements, so check the product information for the exact model. The CE requirement does not automatically mean that an independent inspection is compulsory.
