10 Best Home Keyboards for All Budgets
A home keyboard can provide a versatile musical experience, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player.
Whether you're looking to start your musical journey, enhance your skills, or simply enjoy making music at home, a home keyboard offers a wide range of options to suit various budgets and preferences. To help you find the perfect home keyboard, we've compiled a list of ten exceptional models that cater to different price points without compromising on quality or performance.
When it comes to home keyboards, the market offers a diverse selection. From entry-level models ideal for beginners to high-end keyboards with advanced features and sound quality, there's a keyboard for everyone. We understand that budget considerations are important, so we've included options that span a range of prices to accommodate various financial constraints.
Best Home Keyboards: Product Guide
1. Yamaha PSR-F52
Average Price: $107
The Yamaha PSR-F52 is a versatile keyboard designed with beginners and students in mind, offering essential features for learning and playing music.
Key features:
- 61 standard-sized keys for a real piano feel and learning experience.
- 32-voice polyphony to create rich and layered sounds.
- 136 tones, including a variety of world voices, for diverse musical expressions.
- 158 accompaniment styles with a focus on world styles to enhance your music.
- Lightweight and portable design with the option for battery power supply.
Reasons to buy:
- Perfect choice for beginners and students seeking full-sized keys.
- Impressive sound quality and a wide range of tones to explore.
- Portable and lightweight for easy transport and practice anywhere.
- Includes useful features like Smart Chord and Metronome for learning and creativity.
- Great value for those starting their musical journey.
Reasons to avoid:
- May not satisfy advanced musicians looking for more advanced features.
- Limited polyphony could be a drawback for complex compositions.
- Some users may desire additional connectivity options for recording and external devices.
2. Casio CT-X700
Average Price: $241
The Casio CT-X700 is a versatile keyboard designed to cater to both beginners and home studio enthusiasts, offering a range of features and an excellent sound experience.
Key features:
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing.
- 48-voice polyphony and AiX sound generation for high-quality tones.
- 600 preset tones, including a stage piano sound.
- Advanced practice functions for learning and improving piano skills.
- Compact and lightweight design with battery operation for portability.
Reasons to buy:
- Perfect for beginners and those with limited space.
- Realistic and diverse sound options, including great bass and drum sounds.
- Intuitive controls and a six-track recorder for easy composition.
- Excellent touch response on the keys.
- Offers an inspiring and fun music-making experience.
Reasons to avoid:
- Speakers are good but not exceptional; headphones are recommended for the best sound quality.
- May not be suitable for advanced players looking for a more comprehensive keyboard.
- Some users may prefer weighted keys for a more piano-like feel.
3. Yamaha PSR-SX700
Average Price: $1291
The Yamaha PSR-SX700 is a powerful keyboard designed to meet the demands of musicians and enthusiasts, offering an impressive range of features and exceptional sound quality.
Key features:
- 61 keys with velocity sensitivity and the new FSB keyboard for expressive playing.
- Extensive sound library with 986 voices, 41 drum/SFX kits, and 480 XG voices.
- 400 versatile styles and 128-note polyphony for intricate compositions.
- Assignable buttons, joystick, and live controller for dynamic performance.
- Intuitive touch screen interface for easy navigation and control.
Reasons to buy:
- Impressive sound quality and a wide variety of voices and styles for creative musicians.
- Intuitive touch screen interface simplifies navigation and control.
- Assignable buttons and joystick enhance live performances and customization.
- Integrated audio recorder/player in WAV and MP3 formats for easy recording and playback.
- Powerful speaker system with 2 x 15 W delivers exceptional sound clarity and depth.
Reasons to avoid:
- Non-weighted keys may not satisfy players accustomed to the feel of an acoustic piano.
- Velocity sensitivity might require some adjustment for users seeking consistent key response.
- Considerable weight (11.5 kg) may limit portability for some users.
- Higher price point compared to entry-level keyboards.
4. Korg PA-1000
Average Price: $2659
The Korg PA-1000 is a versatile arranger keyboard designed to elevate live performances and music creation with its expansive set of features.
Key features:
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch for expressive playing.
- 128-voice polyphony and EDS-X sound engine deliver rich and dynamic sounds.
- Over 1750 factory sounds, including multilayer stereo piano and GM/XG sound sets.
- More than 430 styles and 107 drum kits for diverse music creation.
- 7" TFT TouchView color display, MP3 player/recorder, and a 16-track backing sequencer for enhanced functionality.
Reasons to buy:
- Perfect for live performances with high-quality sounds and styles.
- Improved live feel and authentic accompaniments for a genuine performance experience.
- Enhanced build quality for durability during extended use.
- Expansive sound library and customization options for creative music production.
- User-friendly interface with a touchscreen display for easy navigation.
Reasons to avoid:
- Configuring the MIDI interface may have limitations in terms of flexibility.
- Complexity in structure may require some time to adapt for users familiar with different systems.
5. Yamaha PSR-E373
Average Price: $267
The Yamaha PSR-E373 is a versatile 61-key keyboard designed for beginners and intermediate players, offering a wide range of features and high-quality sounds.
Key features:
- 61 standard keys with velocity sensitivity for expressive playing.
- 622 high-quality sounds, including pianos, strings, organs, and more.
- 205 built-in styles for accompaniment and creativity.
- 48-note polyphony for rich and dynamic sound performance.
- 2-track sequencer and 5 user songs for composing and recording your music.
Reasons to buy:
- Exceptional value for beginners and those on a budget, offering an array of features.
- High-quality built-in sounds and expressive keyboard with velocity sensitivity.
- USB connectivity for easy integration with music software and apps.
- Intuitive and beginner-friendly interface, ideal for learners and music students.
- Portability and lightweight design make it suitable for home practice and on-the-go playing.
Reasons to avoid:
- The display can be too bright and lacks adjustment options, potentially causing discomfort.
- The keyboard may transpose MIDI notes in some voices, requiring manual adjustments.
- Limitations in programmable settings registers, which could be insufficient for gigging musicians.
- Some users may prefer a larger keyboard with 88 keys for a more authentic playing experience.
6. Casio CT-S300
Average Price: $193
The Casio CT-S300 is a versatile 61-key keyboard designed for beginners and enthusiasts, offering an array of features and portability in an affordable package.
Key features:
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing.
- 48-note polyphony for rich and dynamic sound.
- 400 built-in sounds, including acoustic and electric pianos.
- 60 preset songs and the option to connect to the Chordana Play For Keyboard learning app.
- Reverb and volume sync EQ to enhance your sound.
Reasons to buy:
- Excellent choice for beginners and learners looking for an affordable yet feature-rich keyboard.
- Portable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and play anywhere.
- Responsive and sensitive keys allow for expressive playing.
- Connectivity options, including USB and audio input, enhance versatility.
- Diverse sound options and learning app compatibility for skill development.
Reasons to avoid:
- Keys may feel somewhat plastic, affecting the overall tactile experience.
- The sound quality for some presets, particularly piano sounds, might not meet professional standards.
- The metronome interface could be more user-friendly, and the lack of sound variety for the metronome is limiting.
- Advanced musicians seeking more sophisticated features may find it lacking.
7. Startone MK-300
Average Price: $149
The Startone MK-300 keyboard is a versatile and budget-friendly choice for beginners and casual musicians.
Key features:
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys provide an authentic playing experience.
- 64-voice polyphony ensures that your music sounds rich and expressive.
- Equipped with 390 voices, 100 styles, and 110 songs for diverse musical exploration.
- Dual mode allows you to play two sounds simultaneously, expanding your creative possibilities.
- Includes sustain effect for prolonged notes and expression in your playing.
Reasons to buy:
- Exceptional value for beginners with velocity-sensitive keys typically found in higher-priced keyboards.
- Offers a wide range of voices, styles, and songs to explore different musical genres.
- Compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for home practice and easy transportation.
- USB MIDI connectivity enhances its versatility for recording and music production.
- Touch-sensitive keys and pitch bend add expressive elements to your playing.
Reasons to avoid:
- The build quality may feel somewhat cheap, affecting its durability and suitability for transport.
- Key sensitivity could be inconsistent, requiring players to adapt their playing style.
- The pre-loaded demo songs might be distracting for younger learners, focusing more on entertainment than practice.
- The lack of weighted keys may limit its appeal to those seeking a more authentic piano feel.
8. Korg EK-50
Average Price: $393
The Korg EK-50 is an entertainer keyboard that offers a range of features for musicians and performers, making it a versatile choice for various musical applications.
Key features:
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing.
- Over 700 sounds, including 256 STS, and 280 styles with 4 variations for diverse musical creativity.
- Flexible song player supporting MIDI, MP3, and WAV formats for playback.
- Powerful speaker system with 2 x 10 W output for clear and dynamic sound.
- Battery operation for up to 7 hours of mobile use, ideal for performances on the go.
Reasons to buy:
- Extensive sound library with over 700 sounds and versatile styles for creative freedom.
- Portable design with battery operation for on-the-go performances.
- Flexible song player supporting various formats, making it suitable for playback and accompaniment.
- Powerful built-in speaker system delivers clear and impactful sound without the need for additional equipment.
- 64-voice polyphony ensures smooth and uninterrupted performance.
Reasons to avoid:
- Grand piano sound may require adjustments to compete with backing tracks.
- Some instrument sounds like harmonicas and trumpets may not fully emulate the real instruments.
- Sheet music holder may not securely hold a tablet for digital sheet music.
- Reverb levels on voices might need tweaking for personal preferences.
9. Casio CTK-240
Average Price: $95
The Casio CTK-240 is a budget-friendly keyboard designed for beginners and young learners, offering essential features to kickstart musical exploration.
Key features:
- 49 standard keys provide a beginner-friendly layout for learning.
- 12 polyphonic voices and 100 sounds offer a variety of musical options.
- 100 built-in styles provide accompaniment for practice and creativity.
- Learning system with Melody Cut assists beginners in playing melodies correctly.
- Lightweight and battery-operated design (6x AA) for portability and flexibility.
Reasons to buy:
- Great value for money, making it an ideal choice for beginners and kids.
- Simple and intuitive design for easy learning and practice.
- Learning system helps beginners play melodies accurately.
- Lightweight and portable, allowing for music exploration on the go.
- Provides essential features for first-time keyboard players.
Reasons to avoid:
- Limited polyphony and sound options may not satisfy more advanced musicians.
- Basic features may be outgrown quickly by those seeking advanced capabilities.
- Requires 6x AA batteries for operation, which can be less convenient than a power supply.
10. Roland GO:KEYS
Average Price: $302
The Roland GO:KEYS is a versatile keyboard with 61 ivory feel box-shaped velocity-sensitive keys, packed with over 500 sounds and a wealth of features, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians.
Key features:
- 61 Ivory feel box-shaped velocity-sensitive keys for expressive playing.
- 128-voice polyphony ensures rich and dynamic sound.
- Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity for wireless music streaming and MIDI.
- MIDI format compliant with GM2 for versatile compatibility.
- Over 500 high-quality built-in sounds, including pianos, synths, and more.
Reasons to buy:
- Excellent sound quality with a wide variety of voices and high polyphony.
- Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless audio streaming and MIDI control.
- Compact and lightweight design for portability and ease of use.
- Versatile features, including loop mix sets and performance pads, enhance creativity.
- Responsive ivory feel keys offer an enjoyable playing experience.
Reasons to avoid:
- Lacks a split function, limiting versatility for some users.
- Limited customization options for sounds and effects.
- Volume levels may be insufficient for larger performance spaces.
- No MIDI control directly on the keyboard, requiring additional equipment for editing.
Conclusion
Whether you're a novice or an experienced musician, investing in a home keyboard can open up a world of musical possibilities. The ten home keyboards we've featured offer a variety of features and performance levels to suit different budgets and musical preferences. As you explore these options, consider how each keyboard aligns with your musical goals and requirements. No matter which one you choose, these home keyboards are sure to provide countless hours of musical enjoyment and creative expression.
Best Home Keyboards: Buying Advice
Things to Consider When Buying a Home Keyboard
- Keyboard Action: Look for a keyboard with responsive and comfortable key action that suits your playing style.
- Sound Quality: High-quality sound samples and sound processing are essential for producing impressive and authentic music.
- Connectivity: Check for USB, MIDI, and headphone connectivity to enable recording, connection to external devices, and private practice.
- Features: Consider additional features like built-in speakers, digital effects, recording capabilities, and included lessons to enhance your musical experience.
- Portability: If you need to move or transport the keyboard, opt for a lightweight and portable design.
- Brand Reputation: Research the manufacturer's reputation and reliability for long-term satisfaction.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect home keyboard that matches your budget and musical aspirations. Happy playing!
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