10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners – Your First Steps in Music Theory

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Last updatedLast updated: April 04, 2024
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Would you like to learn how to play the piano? If the answer is yes, you made a great call. Pianos are versatile instruments suitable for all ages, and that is why people often pick them as their first instruments. You have the best chance of learning a digital variant of the instrument, which is why we are focusing on the best electric piano for beginners. These pianos are specific because they come with integrated musical lesson functions, as well as options to play different tones and effects. These pianos are also kid-friendly, and any newbie will quickly get used to them.

In this article, we are focusing on reviewing the top-rated digital pianos currently available on the market. We searched up and down for relevant features and focused on truly important things like a number of keys and other keyboard specifics, the maximum number of polyphony, display, weight, and dimensions.

We did the footwork for you and ensured you have all information in a single place. Our team consulted experts and read a ton of industry websites to learn more about digital pianos. We selected top-rated units, and you can check them in our comparison table, or dive in and read detailed reviews. Don’t forget our buying guide as it is the perfect way to learn more about these pianos, and easily decide which is the right fit for you.

Top 10 Digital Pianos for Beginners Review 2024

1.

Yamaha PSR-EW310Editor's Choice

Features
  • Keyboard: 76 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 48
  • Display: LCD display
  • Weight: 13.7lbs
  • Dimensions: 50.3 x 17.3 x 6.9 in

More features: lightweight and portable design, a library of 574 instrument voices, touch response, 165 auto accompaniment styles, Touch tutor Lesson Mode, Yamaha Education Suite practicing mode with presets, USB to host connectivity with MIDI

Yamaha is a famous brand in the music industry. Their PSR-EW310 might be the best electric piano for beginners on the market. You will get a power supply and a stand, but that is only a start.

The product is fairly lightweight and portable. It has an Education Suite function, which makes it both kid and practice-friendly. The instrument includes over 150 present songs, 165 styles, and 574 voices.

The piano has 76 keys which are touch-sensitive and will play at different volumes depending on how hard you push them. You can also use the USB port to play MIDI and other audio files.

What stands out?

  • Kid-friendly piano
  • Excellent for practicing
  • Different volume of the keys based on how hard you push them
  • Stand for piano included

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Foot pedals not included
RELATED: 7 Best Yamaha Digital Pianos – Acoustic Sound Is Possible
2.

Casio Privia PX-770Customer’s Choice

Features
  • Keyboard: 88 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 128
  • Display: no
  • Weight: 69.4 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 31.4″ x 54.8″ x 11.75″

More features: 88-key Digital Piano with Scaled Hammer Action, 2-track Recorder, 19 Tones, 128-note Polyphony, and USB Connection

The Casio Privia PX-770 is a digital piano, part of Casio’s revered Privia series, designed to offer a true grand piano experience in a slim, modern design. It boasts 88 fully-weighted keys with a Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard, providing an authentic touch response. The piano’s compact size makes it a suitable fit for living rooms, bedrooms, and studios.

Performance-wise, the PX-770 shines in various areas. Its Multi-dimensional Morphing AiR Sound Source recreates a grand piano’s rich, resonant tones with striking realism. With 19 instrument tones, including strings, organs, and electric pianos, users have various sound options. The built-in speakers deliver clear and room-filling sound, and the duet mode, allowing for split keyboard functionality, is a useful feature for lessons or collaborations.

The PX-770 is particularly well-suited for beginners and intermediate players who require a reliable and realistic practice instrument without breaking the bank. Its integrated metronome, two-track MIDI recorder, and 60 built-in songs are excellent tools for learning and practice. Moreover, its modest footprint makes it ideal for those with space constraints.

What distinguishes the Casio Privia PX-770 from many competitors is its perfect blend of affordability, realism, and compact design. While many digital pianos are on the market, few offer the same touch sensitivity, sound quality, and features at their price point. Casio’s renowned durability and the inclusion of three pedals (soft, sostenuto, and damper) with half-damper operation further elevate its value proposition.

While the PX-770 offers a lot, there’s still room for improvement. Some users might find the selection of 19 instrument tones limiting, especially when compared to digital pianos in a slightly higher price range. Its built-in speakers, although of decent quality, may not suffice for larger rooms or public performances. Hence, for professionals or advanced players seeking expansive sound libraries and more powerful projection, there might be better-suited alternatives.

Why did it make our list?

  • Authentic touch response with 88 fully-weighted keys.
  • Realistic sound through the AiR Sound Source.
  • Compact design suitable for smaller spaces.
  • Affordable with a rich set of features for its price point.

What is not ideal about it?

  • Limited number of instrument tones.
  • Built-in speakers may not be loud enough for larger rooms or performances.
3.

Yamaha P45BBest Sound Quality

Features
  • Keyboard: 88 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 64
  • Display: no
  • Weight: 25.25lbs
  • Dimensions: 2 x 6 x 11.6 inches

More features: includes KSP100 sustain pedal, Knox Gear keyboard stand, and bench, wave memory stereo sampling recreates natural instrument sound in stereo, dual-mode, graded hammer standard (GHS) weighted action mimics a traditional acoustic piano

If you are serious about learning piano, this electric piano is worth considering. It features 88 keys, as well as a 64-note polyphony for optimal sound quality. You can play using the sustain pedal included in the box.

The manufacturer included wave memory technology to ensure natural sound production. It may be the closest you will hear to an acoustic piano. The dual-mode adds to the versatility as it allows you to mix multiple sounds.

The piano itself is not that portable, but it is durable and long-lasting. You will receive a stand, pedal, and a furniture stool.

Why did it make our list?

  • Wave memory technology ensures excellent sound quality
  • Dual-mode allows you to mix multiple modes
  • Very durable and long-lasting

What is not ideal about it?

  • A bit pricey
RELATED: 7 Best Yamaha Digital Pianos – Acoustic Sound Is Possible
4.

Roland FP-30All-in-one Premium Package for Beginners

Features
  • Keyboard: 88 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 128
  • Display: no
  • Weight: 31.1lbs
  • Dimensions: 58 x 18 x 17.5 inches

More features: renowned SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine, Bluetooth connectivity, includes Roland DP-10 damper pedal, adjustable stand, bench, dust cover, online lessons, Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, and polishing cloth

Let’s make one thing clear – this is a serious electric piano for beginners. Roland is a prestigious brand, and its product meets the highest expectations.

The quality of sound you will get from the piano is exceptional, and the unit includes stereo speakers and a strong amplifier. If you want to practice in an apartment or while other members of your household are sleeping, use your headphone, while the quiet keys reduce the noise from pressing. Each of the 88 keys provides a unique piano-like touch.

The piano has integrated Bluetooth connectivity to play songs of your choice via popular smartphone apps. The bundle includes the necessary equipment, as well as a polishing cloth for cleaning, and an instructional DVD.

What are our favorite features?

  • Amazing sound quality and expression
  • Quiet playing option allows you to practice while others are sleeping
  • Compatible with multiple smartphone apps

What could be better?

  • A bit heavy
  • Limited portability
Features
  • Keyboard: 61 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 32
  • Display: LED display
  • Weight: 7lbs
  • Dimensions: 34 x 12 x 3.5 inches

More features: 100 rhythms, 60 demo songs, 40 tones, 8 percussions, and volume or tempo control, one year warranty, can be used by children or adults for music lessons, includes music sheet stand

Plixio went with an idea to create an affordable practicing piano suitable for music lessons. The result is a product that weighs only seven pounds and is incredibly portable. It is a great choice if you need to take the practicing instrument to your teacher whenever you have classes.

Even though it comes with a power cord, you can also use batteries to run it, which additionally contributes to the portability. The music note sheet is a bit flimsy, but it will be capable of holding several papers. You have only 61 keys available, but there are dozens of demo songs and other sound effects that can be welcome while learning to play.

What stands out?

  • Extremely light and portable
  • Can run on batteries
  • Great choice for music lessons

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Music note sheet is a bit flimsy
  • Only 61 keys
RELATED: 5 Best Portable Keyboard Pianos for Quality Sound and Better Playability
6.

Korg B1Best-Looking Digital Piano for Beginners

Features
  • Keyboard: 88 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 120
  • Display: no
  • Weight: 26lbs
  • Dimensions: 51.6 x 13.2 x 4.6 inches

More features: 8 instrument sounds (3 pianos), metronome, transpose, fine-tuning, full-range fidelity and enhanced low-end response, NH keys, the bundle includes adjustable stand, bench, dust cover, sustain pedal, instructional book, Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, and polishing cloth

Korg utilizes digital recordings to secure astonishing sound quality. The sampling technology proved to be an excellent move, and the product can reproduce eight instrument sounds, including three pianos.

The NH (natural weighted hammer) keys are very responsive and make the product suitable for beginners. Additionally, you will receive an instructional DVD with some extra tips and tricks.

It is worth noting that the B1 looks amazing as it comes in standard black, but also the modern white color. You will receive a stand, stool, and headphones, as well as a dust cover and a polishing cloth for easier maintenance.

What are our favorite features?

  • Modern design
  • Responsive natural weighted hammer keys
  • Excellent sound quality thanks to sampling technology

What could be better?

  • A bit heavy
7.

Casio CT-X5000Best Beginner Digital Piano for Dance Music

Features
  • Keyboard: 61 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: 48
  • Display: LCD display
  • Weight: 7.3lbs
  • Dimensions: 37.2 x 12.1 x 3.6 inches

More features: 400 tones and 150 rhythms, Dance Music Mode lets you create and remix electronic dance music quickly and easily, connectivity with iOS or Android devices

Unlike the previous Casio piano on our list, this item is not as luxurious. However, it still may be a wonderful keyboard for learning piano. It has 61 keys with numerous music rhythms and hundreds of tones. The 48-note polyphony is impressive for an affordable unit. The product is portable as it weighs only a bit over seven pounds.

You have many settings available. For example, it has one hundred presets, which can be activated with one touch. What makes this unit more intriguing is the dance music effect, which is perfect for remixes. The product is incredible for practicing as it has a Voice Fingering Guide and Scoring System. You can also connect it to a smartphone app to play MIDI files.

Why did it make our list?

  • Dual power supply
  • Dance music effects allow creating remixes
  • Compatible with Chordata app to play MIDI files

What is not ideal about it?

  • Polyphony number is low
8.

Alesis Melody 61 MKIIBest Kid-Friendly Keyboard

Features
  • Keyboard: 61 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: not specified
  • Display: LCD display
  • Weight: 73lbs
  • Dimensions: 1 x 12.4 x 37.2 inches

More features: 300 tones, 300 rhythms, 40 demo songs, includes a stand, a bench with three adjustable height settings, headphones, a music rest, a power adapter and a microphone

If you are looking for a magnificent beginner keyboard, you want one that is budget-friendly but can still give plenty of options to exercises. That is what you will get with Alesis Melody, a kid-friendly unit that features 61 responsive keys with integrated speakers. You will receive a headphone and microphone, as well as a stool and a piano stand, which makes the bundle a great deal for the price.

The piano has dozens of demo songs, as well as 300 rhythms and tones. It is easy to use and carry around even for your child, but its overall durability could be better. The manufacturer offers free live piano lessons with the product, which is a nice touch.

Why are we impressed?

  • All-in-one package with a piano stand, stool, headphones, and microphone
  • Kid-friendly and very portable
  • Free live piano lessons

What negatives must you be aware of?

  • Low durability
  • Keys aren’t weighted
RELATED: 8 Best Keyboard Pianos under $200 – Budget-Friendly Options to Master Your Skills!
9.

Joy Jk-63M-KitBest USB compatibility

Features
  • Keyboard: 61 keys
  • Max number of polyphony: not specified
  • Display: LED display
  • Weight: 17.9lbs
  • Dimensions: 38.9 x 11 x 16.1 inches

More features: 255 timbres, 255 rhythms, and 50 demo songs, bundle  contains music stand, headphones, keyboard stand, music Stool, DC 9V/AC adaptor, responsive keys, USB connectivity

The beginners will appreciate the number of demo songs and a variety of rhythms and timbres this model has. That will get them started, but the USB Music Player that supports MP3 files will make learning fun.

The keyboard has 61 keys with multiple functions and patterns, such as master volume, tempo control, percussion, etc. The product comes in a kit with a keyboard stand, stool, music sheet stand, headphones, and a power supply.

A single drawback may be that the keys aren’t weighted, but the only way that can be a problem is that you are transitioning from an actual piano. If you are a beginner, the chances are you will quickly get used to the keys, which are quite responsive.

What do we love it for?

  • Bundle includes the keyboard stand, stool, music sheet stand, headphones and a power supply
  • Supports MP3 files
  • LED screen helps you to learn how to play
  • Many functions and patterns

What were we disappointed with?

  • Keys aren’t weighted
10.

Hamzer 61-Key Digital Music Piano KeyboardBest for Mastering Finger Control

Features
  • Keyboard: 61 keys
  • Max number of polyphony:
  • Display: LCD display
  • Weight: 11.16lbs
  • Dimensions: 35.9 x 15.2 x 6.1 inches

More features: 255 timbres, 255 rhythms, 61 keyboard percussions, and 24 demonstration songs, includes microphone and a set of transparent stickers to label the piano keys in order to simplify and accelerate piano mastery, possible to select chord timbre, program/edit rhythm, as well as utilize effects such as vibrato, sustain,  ensemble, record and playback

Hamzer designed another unit that beginners can use to practice their playing skills. The built-in learning system and the sticker sheet included will contribute to mastering finger control.

The product has a dual power supply, and it can run on either AA batteries or electricity. You will receive a power cable, as well as a microphone if you want to sing while playing.

The keyboard has 61 keys, but they might not feel authentic enough when compared to a real piano. You can choose among hundreds of rhythms and timbres, and take advantage of numerous effects. The product weighs only 11 pounds, and it is quite portable.

What are its best features?

  • Budget-friendly price
  • Has a built-in learning system with transparent stickers
  • Dual power supply

What could be improved?

  • Keys might not feel authentic enough
RELATED: 8 Best Keyboard Pianos under $200 – Budget-Friendly Options to Master Your Skills!

Things to Consider

If you are a beginner, the chances are that you don’t know where to start looking for a suitable digital piano. It is only natural that you are not familiar with the features you should consider, and that is what we are focusing on in this guide. We will tell you everything about the characteristics that separate a good piano from an excellent one. We also have a FAQ section that will answer some of the most intriguing questions. Our goal is to resolve all the dilemmas you might have so that you can find the best beginner keyboard easily.

Things to consider before buying the best digital piano for beginners

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryIt is essential that you like how the piano you are buying looks, but it is the performance that should be your priority. Keep reading to find out more about the specifics of the keyboard you should look for, as well as why polyphony is important. You will also learn more about demo songs, connectivity with other apps to play your favorite tunes and the learning kits that will help you to master playing quickly. Here is a detailed overview of the features you should keep in mind when picking out a digital piano for your needs.

Keyboard

Everything starts with a keyboard selection as that is the main component of the digital piano. The first thing to consider is the number of keys. These usually vary from 61 to 88, and the choice depends on your preference. A high number of keys gives you more versatility and freedom when playing, but a low number may be more suitable for beginners.

Furthermore, it is important that the keys provide a great touch response and an authentic feel of a piano. That means they should produce sounds at different volumes depending on how hard you play them.

Ultimately, you shouldn’t neglect the comfort you feel while you play. A variety of settings can make it easier to play, but it all comes down to personal preference.

Maximum number of polyphony

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryThe simplest explanation of polyphony is that it is the capability of an electric piano to play multiple notes simultaneously. This may not sound like an issue unless, for example, you reach that maximum and use a pedal. You will notice that some notes disappeared. This is all because of the algorithms, which limit the versatility of playing and sound quality. You want to go with as much polyphony as possible. It is why you should choose models like Casio Privia PX-160 that support a 128-note polyphony, which is quite impressive.

As we already mentioned, using a pedal can be of huge importance in controlling polyphony. If you activate the pedal, you will layer multiple notes on top of each other. Moreover, you should consider the gradual decay of certain sounds, which is another reason why you need as much polyphony as possible. It is also an answer to the question of why the polyphony number exceeds the number of keys.

Display

Since you are buying a digital piano, the chances are that it will have an LCD screen. The screen can be of huge importance as it makes controlling the unit, and learning how to play far more manageable. All necessary information will be shown on the screen, and it will contribute to your comfort of playing on the device.

The display is usually compact, but it can still vary in size. That is why you should consider finding the size that fits your preference. For example, Yamaha PSR-EW310 did an excellent job in tailoring the display to fit the keyboard seamlessly. As a result, you have an attractive product with a useful and reliable LCD screen.

Portability

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryWhen it comes to portability, you want to consider the weight and dimensions of your keyboard. If you are working with a teacher, who asks you to bring the keyboard to the class, you want a light unit that you can easily carry. Plixio 61 Key Electronic Keyboard has a compact size, and it only weighs seven pounds, which makes it very suitable.

If you need portability, you want to find the smallest and lightest unit out there. However, if you are okay with keeping your digital piano in a single location, you can go with a premium package like Roland FP-30. It may be a bit heavier and harder to move, but it will outperform any portable keyboard out there.

Ultimately, the decision is yours, and the good thing is that you have many portable units at your disposal if that is your cup of tea.

Tones, rhythms, demo songs

The beauty of a keyboard is that it can reproduce sound samples captured from various instruments, such as organs, accordions, flutes, synthesizers, etc. While it is always nice to have a lot of tones available, your primary focus should be on piano sounds. Depending on the unit, they might sound like acoustic or electric pianos in combination with other instruments. For example, the Korg B1 supports three pianos and five extra instruments.

Many digital pianos these days feature hundreds of rhythms. Finally, beginners will appreciate the choice of pre-loaded demo songs. That doesn’t make learning that much easier, but it makes it more fun to follow some famous melodies.

Apart from using demo songs, many units like Joy Jk-63M-Kit have an amazing UBS compatibility that allows you to play MP3, MIDI, and other audio files. That way, you can learn while enjoying your favorite tunes.

Learning kits

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryThe manufacturers that aim to design the best beginner keyboard for playing the piano often include learning kits with their product. Alesis Melody 61 MKII, for example, offers free online lessons if you choose their unit.

Other products, such as Roland FP-30, include an instructional DVD. These DVDs aim to help you to adjust to the device you purchased. You will find useful tips and tricks to improve your playing skills.

We recommend you to pick a beginner piano that comes with integrated lessons that will help you to become a great player. An LCD screen can be of massive help because it can show the notes that you should play. Additionally, you may get sticker sheets to label the keys so that you can easily locate them on the keyboard.
All these can be important and make playing more manageable and entertaining.

Ease of playing

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryThe ease of playing largely depends on the type of keyboard. If you have big fingers, the narrow keys are not a great option for you. On the other hand, children should look for a compact-sized keyboard, which perfectly suits their fingers.

It may be wise to go for a graded hammer standard (GHS) keys, such as the ones in Yamaha P45B. These are beautiful because they provide an authentic feeling that resembles a real piano.

Although beginners might get used to unweighted keys, if you want to become a serious player, you should start with GDS or NH (natural hammer) keys right away. That way, it will give you the feel of an acoustic piano, and not a keyboard.

Connectivity

Modern electric pianos come with a bunch of digital features that increase the versatility and fun of using the product. You will find units, such as the Joy Jk-63M-Kit that are USB compatible and have MP3 support. That way, you can play your favorite MP3 songs by simply plugging in a USB device.

Other units have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections granting you access to specialized apps. For example, Casio CT-X5000 allows you to play MIDI files over Chordata app for smartphones. Roland FP-30 is compatible with multiple applications for playing music. Thanks to a Wi-Fi connection, you can play audio files with your piano, and learn to play using your favorite tunes. While connectivity isn’t an essential feature for electric pianos, it can be very useful.

Extra features

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryApart from sounds and tones, your keyboard might have different effects. For example, Casio CT-X5000 comes with a Dance Mode effect, which allows all fans of electrical music to make unique remixes.

Now, let’s take a look at items that may be included in the package that comes with your keyboard:

  • Piano stand – instead of placing it on a table, put the keyboard on a sturdy stand.
  • Stool – a chair specifically designed for your unit.
  • Headphones – perfect when you need to play in a noisy environment and suitable for quiet playing when others are sleeping.
  • Microphone – for all those who want to practice singing skills at the same time.

Finally, you want to consider the warranty for your product. The warranty can significantly vary, but premium pianos should have a generous one.

Price range

10 Best Sounding Digital Pianos for Beginners - Your First Steps in Music TheoryThe best beginner keyboard doesn’t have to be expensive. However, the truth is that the price ranges can significantly vary. If you are looking for an entry-level unit, and you do not need to have exceptional sound quality, you can find a digital piano for under $100.

An entry-level unit, such as Alesis Melody 61 MKII, can be a great choice for all those who want to see if their children would get used to playing the keyboard. You don’t want to splash the cash on a unit your child will quickly get bored with.

However, if you or your kid plan to become serious piano players, you deserve a premium learning unit. Roland FP-30 offers an excellent all-in-one package for beginners, including an instructional DVD and all the other things you need to start playing.

These premium products are more durable and can deliver unique and natural-like sounds. You will enjoy playing a high-end digital piano, and the listeners will go crazy because of those rich tones. Nevertheless, please note that the most expensive units often go over $500. Ultimately, finding the best ratio between price and quality is important, and that should be your primary priority when choosing a digital piano.

FAQ

 
 

If we are talking about suitability for beginners, you should always choose a digital piano over an acoustic piano. They are easier to learn how to play, and usually, they are more affordable. The sound quality they produce should be good enough to resemble piano sounds, and a beginner probably won’t notice the difference.

Although, we have to mention that acoustic pianos have a better sound quality, and give you a wider dynamic range. Even the best digital pianos cannot compare to acoustic ones. That is why you should start with a digital unit, but once you feel you are skilled enough, give a shot to the acoustic piano, too.

Weighted keys give you an authentic feeling of playing on a real piano. Some digital pianos emulate the feeling of a hammer that strikes a string of an acoustic piano. If you are a beginner, you are probably dreaming of playing a professional piano eventually. That is why your learning unit should have as many features that resemble it as possible. And if you already played piano, you will notice a huge difference, and it will be hard to get used to unweighted keys. The most common choices are NH and GHS standard keys, and they are your smartest options.

That depends on the unit you purchase. If you go with a low-end digital piano, it is possible that it doesn’t have exceptional sound quality. As you progress and learn how to play the piano, you will start noticing the details. Over time, the sound quality will become important. You will want to play on a premium instrument that delivers natural-like sounds, such as Yamaha P45B. While your starting digital piano may still be suitable for playing, you will wish to take things to the next level. That is why you may consider replacing it with a new product.

Our Verdict

We came to the end of our roundup, and it is time to tell you who is the winner. The choice ultimately depends on your preference, but we believe you can’t go wrong with Yamaha PSR-EW310. It has the optimal number of keys, a wonderful LCD display, and supports MIDI files. The product is portable enough, and it comes with a stand and an integrated lesson mode.

Casio Privia PX-160 is our second candidate for the best digital piano for beginners. Many users love this unit as it has 88 keys and 128-note polyphony. It comes with a durable stand, comfortable stool, and a music sheet. Casio designed a premium piano suitable for those who want to become skilled players.

Finally, you can consider the Yamaha P54B. It has a marvelous ratio of price and quality and delivers exceptional sounds thanks to wave memory sampling. We hope that our article helped you to pick your favorite and get to a flying start when it comes to piano playing!

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