If by ‘keyboard’ you mean a musical instrument, first choose a model that the manufacturer says can run on batteries. Then decide whether built-in learning features, easy portability or a wider key range matters most: a keyboard with more keys may need more space and be heavier to carry. If you’re looking for a computer keyboard for typing lesson materials, this advice doesn’t apply.
If you’re preparing music lessons somewhere without mains electricity, check whether your chosen instrument can run on batteries. Yamaha and Casio list this option for the PSR-E383 and CT-S100 respectively.
If you’re preparing music lessons and want to practise on the instrument itself, you may find the Yamaha PSR-E383’s learning features, the Casio CT-S100’s practice pieces or the Alesis Melody 61 MK4’s recording function useful.
If you’re preparing pieces that need a wider range, compare the number of keys with your repertoire. Korg lists 88 keys for the Liano; also bear its dimensions and weight in mind.
If you’re looking for an instrument you can play, check its battery power first. Practice features, portability and the range you need will then help you decide which specifications suit your lesson preparation.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who might prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Playing without mains power | Check whether the exact model runs on batteries, which type and how many it needs, and whether they’re included. Treat the stated playing time as a manufacturer’s figure for the conditions specified. | If I want to play somewhere without a power socket, battery power is my first requirement. Around 36% of consumers prioritise being able to play without mains power. |
| Practising and recording | Check which learning, practice or recording features the exact model offers and whether they suit what you want to do while preparing. | If I want to work through an exercise on the instrument or listen back to it, that feature will influence my choice. Around 29% of consumers prioritise practice or recording features. |
| Taking it with you | Compare the model’s dimensions and weight, and allow for batteries, a stand and a bag. | If I take the instrument to different teaching locations, its size and weight need to fit the space available. Compact portability is the top priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Key range | Compare the number of keys with the pieces you’re preparing. Don’t assume it will feel just like playing an acoustic piano. | For piano pieces, I first want to know whether the keyboard covers the range I need. Around 14% of consumers say piano range is their main buying concern. |
A model described as portable won’t necessarily work without a power socket. Without a suitable battery power option, you won’t be able to play the instrument where you intend to use it.
Check the power requirements for the exact model and see which items are included.
AA batteries for the Korg Liano are sold separately.
Casio says that the CT-S100’s playing time can vary depending on the type of battery and playing style.
If you’re preparing for a longer session, take spare batteries and don’t rely solely on the stated operating time.
A 61-key model offers a different range from the 88-key Korg Liano. The Liano is also 1.282 mm wide and weighs 6,0 kg without batteries and music stand, according to Korg.
Compare the key range with the pieces you play, then weigh that against the space and weight you can manage.
The PSR-E383 is a 61-key model for anyone looking for battery power and practice features.
The CT-S100 is a 61-key model with battery power and practice pieces.
The Liano is an 88-key, battery-powered digital piano for anyone who needs a wider piano range.
The Melody 61 MK4 is a 61-key model with a function for recording a practice session and playing it back.
No. Check the power specifications for the exact model. For example, Yamaha lists six AA batteries for the PSR-E383; don’t assume it runs on batteries just because it’s described as ‘portable’.
Korg lists six AA batteries, either alkaline or NiMH, which are sold separately. The stated playing time of around eight hours applies to alkaline batteries.
No. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed statutory guarantee period in the Netherlands. When you buy as a consumer, the product must meet what you can reasonably expect from it; any manufacturer’s guarantee is separate.
Don’t put used batteries in general waste; check where you can take them for recycling. According to the Dutch government, the old-for-new scheme applies when a private individual buys a new, similar appliance: the seller must take back the old one.
