Ideally, when learning how to play the piano, you’d want to have a real acoustic piano on which you can hone your skills. But the fact of the matter is that these instruments are expensive, and if you aren’t too sure how big of a part music is going to play in your life yet, making the investment can be scary. So what are your other options?
Well, there are always digital pianos. These instruments will tend to sound and feel like the real thing, but they don’t exactly come cheap either. While they aren’t as expensive as large acoustic pianos, they can still ask for a heft price tag.
That is where keyboards come in. These are generally cheaper than digital pianos, but they have a whole lot to offer, especially for students. And while some stage keyboards will cost you a lot of money, there are a lot of affordable budget-friendly models out there that are fit for both performing musicians and beginning students alike.
Our pick for the best cheap piano keyboard is the Alesis Recital. This is because it has a full 88-key setup with semi-weighted keys, giving you the feel of a real acoustic piano. On top of that it has top-quality tones and voices that are fit for performers and students. With that being said, it can be considered pricey compared to the other options featured on this list. So if you don’t think this is the right model for you, it might be a good idea to check out the rest of this article.
In this article, we’ll be looking at some of the best cheap keyboard pianos in the market today. We’ve also included a buying guide to help you on your search for the best instrument for you.
Keep reading to learn more!
See also:
Quick Summary
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Top 7 Best Cheap Keyboard Pianos
#1. Alesis Recital – The Best Performance Keyboard On A Budget
- An Electric Piano That’s Tailored to You - Feature-packed Electric keyboard with 88 premium full-sized semi weighted keys with adjustable touch response to suit your preferred playing style
- Premium Sounds - 5 voices (Acoustic Piano, Electric Piano, Organ, Synth, and Bass), built-in FX: Chorus, Reverb, and two built in 20W speakers that deliver crystal-clear, room-filling sound
- All The Right Connections - ¼” sustain pedal input (pedal not included), ¼” stereo headphone output for private practice and stereo RCA outputs for connection to speakers / amplifiers
- Play the Keyboard Wherever You Go - Power via the included power adapter or 6 D cell batteries (not included) for professional piano performance anywhere
- Powerful Educational Features - Standard, split, layer, and lesson modes with 128-note max polyphony and Skoove 3 month premium subscription for expert interactive online piano lessons
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The first item on our list also happens to be our top pick. The Alesis Recital is a great keyboard that you can get on a budget. This is an ideal choice for beginners, music students, or professionals looking to save some money. It comes with a full 88-key keyboard, giving you the full spectrum of notes that you’ll get on an acoustic piano, and on top of that the keys are semi-weighted, so you get some semblance of playing an acoustic instrument without that much strain on the fingers.
It also has adjustable touch response that you can tweak to your exact preferences to suit your playing style. It has 128 maximum polyphony, which is a huge plus, since you don’t usually get that in this price range. On top of that, it comes with 5 premium voices that include acoustic piano, organ, synth, bass, and electric piano. This isn’t as many sounds as you’d get on some of the cheaper keyboards on this list, but that’s about expected since this product is considered a digital piano more than a keyboard.
It’s also loaded with educational features such as lesson modes and a three month subscription to Skoove, where you can get interactive piano lessons. On top of that, it also has split mode which allows you to load two different voices on the instrument at the same time. That way, you can have a different sound on each hand, which can greatly improve your soundscape when you’re playing music.
This would be a great pick for any pianist out there, especially if you’re starting to take music more seriously as a craft.
#2. Alesis Melody – The Best Cheap Keyboard To Learn Piano
- All-In-One Digital Piano for Beginners – Portable music keyboard with 61 responsive full-size piano-style keys and built-in speakers to practice and perform in front of your friends and family
- Hundreds of Electric Keyboard Sounds - Includes 300 voices: Acoustic Piano, Electric Piano, Strings, Organ, Synth, Drums and more. Develop your skills with the intuitive Dual and Split modes
- Practice Makes Perfect - Enjoy 40 Demo songs, 300 built-in rhythms and a "Record" feature for capturing your performances. The headphones with a 1/8” jack mute the speakers for private practicing
- Powerful Educational Features - Easily advance your skills with a 3-month premium subscription from Skoove for interactive online piano lessons
- Everything you Need - Includes an easy-to-assemble keyboard stand, bench with adjustable height settings, headphones, sheet music stand, microphone with 5ft. long cable for singing along while playing and a power adapter
Last update on 2024-04-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Next up is another model from the same brand, but this product is one for beginners as opposed to serious musicians. It’s a simple 61-key keyboard that you can learn the basics of piano on, and it can also be used as a compact instrument for performances and rehearsals. It also has built-in speakers, so you don’t have to worry about connecting it to a separate output just to hear yourself play.
On top of that, it’s loaded with different sounds. In fact, the Alesis Melody comes packed with over 300 different voices that you can play around with to make unique sounds and melodies. It also has split mode, so you can have two separate voices on each side of the keyboard, giving players a lot of sonic variety. This model also has a play along mode for students with 40 pre-loaded songs that would make great practice pieces for beginners.
And if all that wasn’t enough for you, this model also comes with a stool, stand, headphones, a microphone, music rest, and a power supply. So you aren’t just getting a basic beginner’s keyboard, you’re actually getting a full setup that musicians can use for practicing and performing too. So if you’re a beginner looking for a great instrument to get started with, then this Alesis model might be the right one for you.
#3. Casio SA-71 – The Best Option Under $100
- 44 mini-sized keys and 5 percussion pads , Amp Output - 0.8＋0.8 Watts
- 100 sounds and 50 rhythm patterns. Dimension: 23.8 inch W x 8.3 inch D x 2.24 inch H
- Simple tone selection with PIANO, ORGAN tone button and melody on/off lesson function
- Easy-to-read LCD display
- Product doesn't include an adapter.Speakers:2 x 1.2 W
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When searching for cheap keyboards, you might expect to still have to pay more than $100 for a decent instrument. And while that might have been the case in the past, technological advancements have allowed brands to be able to make good instruments for less that $100, which is evident with this Casio model.
It has 44 mini-sized keys, which doesn’t give you the full range of the piano, but it does give you more than enough notes to play around with and play basic songs. On top of that, the stripped-down layout makes the instrument very compact, so you can easily bring it around with you wherever you go. It has about 100 different sounds loaded into it, which is more than enough to practice and even perform with, and it also has over 50 rhythm patterns that players can jam to and play around with.
On top of that, it also has a mini LCD display that is easy to read, which could be a great help for beginners and those who are just getting used to the piano. It also has basic speakers, so you won’t need to plug the instrument into a separate output just to hear yourselves, making this a great option for those who want to start out on the piano and want to try it out without busting the bank.
#4. Yamaha YPT-270 – The Best Keyboard Piano Under $200
- Hundreds of high quality voices, complemented by Drum kits and Special FX kits, that bring variety and authenticity to your music
- Whether you are playing country, rock and roll, or a samba, styles bring your music to life by adding natural feeling accompaniment instruments to your playing
- Smart Chord lets you play great-sounding chords from simple Pop triads to complex jazz 7th chords with only a single finger
- 61 full-sized keys are great for learning and developing keyboard playing technique
- Quiz mode makes learning fun by turning it into a game. Tuning Range- 427.0 - 440.0 - 453.0 Hz (approx.0.2Hz Increments)
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you go up a bit with your price range and look for products under $200, you’ll also find a whole lot of quality instruments like this particular Yamaha model. It comes with 61-full sized keys, which will give you a similar feeling to playing a real acoustic piano, but since the keys aren’t weighted the playing feel isn’t 100% authentic, which is fine, considering how affordable the instrument is.
It’s loaded with hundreds of high quality voices including piano, synth, strings, bass, and other sounds like guitar and wind instruments. This is further complemented by the drum kits and special FX kits loaded into the instrument, giving you a lot of sounds to play around with.
This instrument also comes with a smart chord feature, which is a great way for beginners to sophisticate their sound a bit. This feature will allow you to turn any simple triad into a complex jazz chord all by pressing one key. If you’re an experienced pianist, you might not end up using this feature, but it’s still a pretty useful and fun one to have around.
This is a great option for students as it has a quiz mode which can turn learning music into a very fun game! On top of that, the piano is also made by Yamaha, which is one of the most respected piano brands on the market today, and since it’s so affordable, this will be a sweet deal for just about any music student out there!
#5. RockJam 54-key Keyboard Piano – The Best Option For Beginners
- This RockJam keyboard piano features 54 full size keys that gives this keyboard a traditional piano feel
- Compact and portable the RockJam 54 keyboard piano can be powered by either batteries and mains power (power supply included.) making it perfect for use both in the home and on the road
- Two Inbuilt stereo speakers provide excellent sound quality allowing you to monitor your practice and performances
- The sheet music stand is perfect for supporting either sheet music or tablet devices so you can read music or follow tuition as you play
- Exclusive access to content within the Simply piano application for both iOS and Android devices to assist keyboard piano players both young and old
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Next up is the top pick we have for beginners. This is because this RockJam model comes with an interactive LCD screen that you can use to learn, and it also comes with the Piano Maestro Teaching App with 30 different songs that beginners can easily learn and play. It’s also compact and portable, so you can bring it with you wherever you go.
It has a 54-key keyboard, which doesn’t give you the widest range, but is good enough to start on. The keys are full-sized, at least, so you can get some semblance of playing on an acoustic piano with this instrument. This instrument can be powered by a power supply like most keyboards out there, but it can also be powered by batteries, which makes it a very convenient pick for beginners!
It has two built-in speakers, so you get a stereo sound while playing, which is a great feature to have if you’re just starting out since it allows you to really hear the notes you’re playing. And if that wasn’t enough, this keyboard is also loaded with over a hundred different voices that you can experiment with to really create unique sounds.
#6. Nektar Impact GX61 – The Best Midi Option
- Compact Design: The compact design is comfortable in front of a computer and delivers powerful functionality not even found on more comprehensive controllers
- Dynamic: The Impact GX61 are dynamic and expressive instruments, tailored to composition & performance with your computer music system. They are compatible with any music software for Windows and Mac OS and their no-fuss interface is a great entry into the world of Nektar controllers
- Transport Extended: Eight buttons intended for DAW control, are at the center of Impact GX. Essential tasks like transport activation or track navigation are highly repetitive � and reaching for the mouse every time, can kill any seed of inspiration
- Nektar DAW Integration: Nektar DAW integration is carefully crafted to give the best experience with your Nektar hardware. It delivers the freedom to create, instead of having to reach for the mouse constantly when you are in the middle of capturing an idea
- BITWIG 8-Track: Bitwig 8-Track is included with every Impact LX+ so you can start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro from day one. Bitwig 8-Track gives you access to over 50 software instruments and effects for use on up to 8 audio or MIDI project tracks, and you can use any 3rd party VST plug-ins you might own, too
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you have a computer or laptop and a Digital Audio Workstation set up on it, you might not even need a keyboard or digital piano in the first place. Another great option for you could be a MIDI controller, which you can use in tandem with your Audio software to play a bunch of different sounds.
This is a great way to get a keyboard with an authentic feel while saving you some money at the same time. This is a 61-key controller with very comfortable keys that bridge the gap between heavy weighted keys and flimsy non-weighted ones. This instrument is compatible with both Windows and Mac, so compatibility won’t be too much of a problem here.
It also has 14 assignable buttons that you can program to control just about everything. It can be set to control volume, tone, pitch, modulation, and just about anything you can think of. On top of that, it also comes with a DAW called Bitwig, which isn’t the most popular software out there, but it’s a great place to start. So if you already have experience working with MIDI controllers and have a DAW installed on your computer, this might be the right option for you.
However, it’s important to remember that this controller is not loaded with sounds and it will always have to be connected to a computer program if you want to play it. This is a pro and a con, on one hand, it isn’t a stand-alone instrument, but on the other, it gives you the option to use just about any synth or digital piano program/VST you can think of, and if you know how to use the programs, then you will have a lot of sonic versatility while playing.
#7. Rockjam 61-key Keyboard Kit – The Best Bundle Option
- The RockJam 5061 keyboard piano super kit includes a digital keyboard with 61 full-size keys giving you that traditional piano feel whilst maintaining a portable and compact design that can be powered by either mains (power supply included) or batteries
- This RockJam 5061 piano keyboard features a LED panel that both displays and engages the 200 rhythms, 200 tones, a teaching function, and 30 demo songs that are part of its functionality
- The RockJam 5061 electric piano has record and playback functionality allowing you to build layers to your sound and an aux input so you can play along to your favorite songs
- This music keyboard super kit package includes a keyboard stand that is sturdy in design and can be adjusted to suit keyboard piano players both young and old
- This electric piano keyboard super kit contains a padded seat that is easily folded and has a thick padded seat for hours of comfortable play
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The last item on our list is one of the best keyboard bundles that you can get on a budget. It comes from RockJam and comes with a 61-key keyboard, which is just enough for beginners and music students looking for a basic instrument to practice on. It also comes with headphones, a piano bench, keyboard stand, pitch bend kit, piano bench, a learning app, and keynote stickers.
This has just about all you’ll need to start learning the piano and more, which is why it’s a great option for those who are starting out. The keyboard comes with around 200 different tones and rhythms to play around with, so students can gain an understanding of different sounds and how to use them in their music.
If you’re a beginner, it can be a great advantage to have all these pieces equipment with you. It will allow you to practice comfortably, and if you want to have a private session, you can always use the headphones so nobody else can hear you. So if you’ve been looking for a bundle that has all the essentials to start learning the piano, then this might be the pick for you.
What To Consider When Buying A Keyboard Piano
Hammer action
This refers to the weight of the keys. When shopping on a budget, chances of finding a high-quality keyboard with fully-weighted keys will be slim. And while this is the closest you will get to the feel of an acoustic piano, you will find a bunch of semi-weighted options in this range that could suit your needs.
Semi-weighted keys aren’t as heavy as fully-weighted ones, which could be good for someone beginning to get the feel of the piano since it won’t be too hard on the fingers and wrist. And if you want to save even more money, you can always opt for a non-weighted option. While this is far from the best feel you’ll get on a digital piano or a keyboard, it is a great way to save money and still get high-quality sounds and tones from the instrument.
As is expected, there is a bit of a compromise that will have to be made when shopping on a budget, but that doesn’t mean you should deprive yourself of a high-quality instrument.
Number of Keys
Ideally, you would want to have a full 88-key keyboard. However, if shopping on a budget, you might have to consider options with less keys. 66 and 54-key keyboards are great options for beginners or for those who need to bring their instrument around regularly. This is because they are lighter and smaller, making them easier to play and carry around. On top of that, having less notes can also help students focus on the basics of playing piano, which need to be mastered fully before proceeding to complex playing techniques.
Tone, voices, and FX
The next thing that one would have to consider when shopping for digital pianos is the sound that comes out of the instrument. In this price range, you will likely be dealing with sample-based tones as opposed to physical modeling. And if you find the right brand, you might be able to stumble upon a keyboard with a premium and realistic piano tone.
The best way to check for the tone of a piano is to hear it for yourself. From there, you can determine whether the timbre of the instrument suits your tastes and musical styles. On top of that, you would like to have a good range of voices available to you. This basically refers to the sounds loaded into the instrument. Some digital pianos will only have four or five different voices to choose from such as electric piano, grand piano, upright piano, and maybe some string and organ voices.
Other keyboards, on the other hand, could have hundreds of voices loaded in them, however, some of these sounds may not sound the best and may not even be used. So if you’re thinking of spending more money on a certain product because it has more voices, make sure that they are actually voices that you will use in your playing, otherwise you might end up wasting your money.
Lastly, you might also want to get an options with effects loaded into it. With pianos, you will usually only want reverb and chorus effects available for use. These are some of the most valuable effects for any keyboard player, but be ready to shell out a bit more money for a model that is already pre-loaded with these effects.
Portability
One of the biggest advantages of a keyboard is that it is portable, wherein an acoustic piano isn’t. Because of this, you have to make sure that you can bring your instrument around with you because you never know when you’ll need to rehearse or perform at a distant venue. Some instruments will be easier to bring around than others, and it’s very important to know how much you’ll be lugging the piano around so you can buy a model that suits your needs properly.
Extras
These extras refer to the other things that come with the piano. This may be a stool, music stand, sustain pedal, power supply, or in some cases, nothing at all. You will not need these extras all the time, but if you’re starting for scratch and don’t have any musical equipment at home, you might want to invest in a bundle deal so that you will have all the equipment you have in one investment.
When you’re a piano player, some of the essential things you’ll need to come with a digital piano are a power supply, sustain pedal, and if you don’t have a proper chair to play on, maybe even a piano stool.
FAQ’s
What is the best cheap keyboard piano?
Our pick for the best cheap keyboard piano is the Alesis Recital. This is a very affordable model with semi-weighted keys, a full 88-key keyboard, and five quality voices that any pianist would love. It’s one of the closest things you can get to the feel and sound of an acoustic piano when on a tight budget.
Can you learn piano on a cheap keyboard?
Yes, you can! There’s nothing wrong with starting out with a cheap keyboard, even if it only has 66 or 72 keys. In fact, a lot of instrumentalists out there started their lessons on very cheap instruments before slowly building up a budget to buy a more expensive model.
Do I need 88 keys to learn piano?
Ideally, it would be great to learn piano with the full 88-keys at your disposal. This gives you a great feel of the instrument’s range, as well as give you access to all the notes possible on the instrument. This is especially important if you’re learning classical music since that requires a very wide range of notes.
However, if you don’t have an 88-key piano available, you can still learn the basics of the instrument on a basic 66-key instrument since they tend to cost a bit less and be more accessible for a lot of people.
Which is better a keyboard or a piano?
This will largely depend on your own playing style. If you’re playing a lot of classical and jazz music, then you might want to use a real acoustic piano when practicing or performing. This is because that is the sound that is required by the genres. However, if you plan on playing a lot of funk, blues, or other modern genres like electronic music, EDM, or hip-hop, then a keyboard might be a better option since you have a wider range of sounds available to you.
This also largely depends on which instrument you are most comfortable and what you believe is the better option for you.
Is it okay to practice piano on a keyboard?
Yes, it is. In fact, this is seen as a very affordable way for beginners to get used to an instrument. This is especially true if you have a good keyboard that can give you a realistic sound and feel of an acoustic piano. That being said, even weighted keyboards can sometimes have a different feel to them than an acoustic piano, so there will still be a bit of an adjustment when bouncing between the two instruments.
Conclusion
And there you have it. These are the best cheap keyboards on the market today. Some are a bit more expensive than others, but generally, they are all affordable models that anyone would enjoy.
There are some instruments on the list that are designed for more serious musicians on a budget, but there are also others that are really meant for those who are just starting out.
If you think you found the model for you on this list, then it’s about time you got your hands on one yourself. And before you know it, you’ll be playing away in the comfort of your own home with your very own inexpensive keyboard!
Lulacruza is an electronic folk duo operating at the junction of the hypermodern and the ancient. Our music weaves together hypnotic female singing, South American folk instruments and electronic processing, while channeling pulsating waves from the source of creation.
Lalucruza is also a community where you can connect with other music lovers to collaborate, exchange ideas and share knowledge. A platform for who wants to learns the basics of playing piano, guitar, drum masters’ technique, etc.. is the premise of our website.