Practice is an essential part of learning anything. And, having a piano or keyboard at home for students to practice is a key to their success with music lessons.
Below are a range of decent and extremely affordable keyboard options, starting with one that is around the cost of just a couple lessons!
Gone are the days that there is a such a large difference in the price of smaller, compact piano keyboards vs full size piano keyboards. And, there are now selections of 88-key piano keyboards for just around $100.
However, if you or your child takes piano lessons and doesn’t already have a piano or keyboard to practice on at home, this page below is a great place to start. Especially if you are limited on space.
All students should have a convenient instrument to practice on every day of the week.
That said, be sure to check out our recommendations for beginner 88-key piano keyboards and intermediate 88-key piano keyboards.
Please Note: We have not tested all of the instruments and options recommended below. We have chosen these recommendations mostly based on three factors: included features, overall perceived value, and word-of-mouth/online reviews. All readers are encouraged to do their own research before making a purchase.
If you indeed choose one of the options listed below, please use the links in this post to make your purchase. A small portion of the purchase amount will go towards a budget for improvements and upgrades to the instruments used during private lessons and group classes.
The Ultimate Starter Keyboard
ROCKJAM 61-Key PORTABLE ELECTRONIC KEYBOARD
Coming in at around $70 is this keyboard that has many great features.
For starters, it has full-size keys. While this may be a struggle for small hands, this is what we use in lessons and most beginners in kindergarten and above are able to do just fine once they learn how to place their hand properly.
In addition, it reportedly has a better piano sound than my previous recommendation (though nothing like a real piano) and it comes with stickers and a free app to help students learn more on their own.
If you are currently taking lessons and don’t already have a piano or keyboard at home, this is the perfect place to start. As with my previous recommendation, it is lightweight, has 61- keys, and is extremely easy to store just about anywhere, such as under a bed.
The Lowest Cost Full Keyboard Set
RockJam 61-Key Electronic Keyboard Set
If you purchase a keyboard by itself, you will need to either set it on your own furniture or purchase a stand separately. This keyboard set comes with it all: the keyboard above, a keyboard stand, a music stand (for books and sheet music), a bench to sit, and even headphones so can practice without bothering your family.
All for under $140.
Want the package that also includes a sustain pedal for just $20 more? Click here for the upgraded kit.
Clearance & Used Items
There are many places to get used keyboards at a steep discount. The most important things for a beginner keyboard are:
1) at least 61 full-size keys
2) built-in speakers (you don’t want to have to pay extra for an amp or external speakers)
3) a power supply (batteries are expensive and are a pain to replace)
A step up is touch-sensitive keys for changing volume as you play. And, semi-weighted or weighted keys will give a better feel of piano. Anything that says “digital piano” is a usually step in the right direction.
The best brands are Roland, Korg, Yamaha, Alesis, and Casio.
Guitar Center is a good place to start, especially since you can then pick up the keyboard locally. Also, check their Clearance and Outlet (open box) sections for special deals on new(er) items.
Craigslist also has a lot of great deals. Just be safe and avoid scams.
Musician’s Friend also has several categories to check out. They have open box sections for Keyboards and Digital Pianos. And, they have regular “Hot Deals” and Clearance items.