6 Best Beginner Keyboards
Each keyboard was tested for at least 2 weeks. We evaluated key feel, sound quality, build, features, and value. Here's what we recommend.
Alesis Recital
The best bang-for-buck keyboard under $250. Nothing else at this price offers 88 semi-weighted keys that feel this good, plus solid speakers and built-in lessons.
The Alesis Recital punches way above its weight. The semi-weighted keys have adjustable touch sensitivity—rare at this price—and the 20W speakers deliver surprisingly full sound. Perfect for absolute beginners who want room to grow without breaking the bank.
Donner DEP-20
Best for explorers who want variety. 238 tones means you can experiment with organs, synths, and strings—great for creative beginners.
The DEP-20 is perfect if you want to explore beyond just piano sounds. With 238 tones and 128 rhythms, it's basically a mini workstation. The keys feel decent (though not quite Alesis-level), and the record function lets you track your progress.
Casio CDP-S150
Insanely portable without sacrificing quality. At just 23 lbs and 9.2" deep, it's perfect for apartments or moving between rooms—and it sounds great.
Casio's ultra-slim design is a marvel of engineering. The Scaled Hammer Action feels better than semi-weighted keys (actual hammer mechanism), and Casio's piano sound is among the best in this class. Choose this if portability matters or you're tight on space.
Alesis Recital Pro
The Recital's older sibling with better keys. Upgrade to hammer-action keys and more voices for $120—worth it if you're serious about technique.
Think of this as the Recital Plus. You get actual hammer-action keys (closer to acoustic piano feel), 12 voices instead of 5, and 128-note polyphony for playing complex pieces. If you can stretch your budget, this is the better long-term investment.
Yamaha P-45
Yamaha quality at an entry price. The cheapest way into the Yamaha ecosystem—legendary build quality and the GHS action that thousands trust.
This is Yamaha's most affordable digital piano, and it shows their decades of expertise. The GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) action is heavier in bass and lighter in treble, just like an acoustic. Sound quality is classic Yamaha—balanced and reliable.
Casio Privia PX-160
Best key action under $400, period. The Tri-Sensor mechanism rivals keyboards costing twice as much. Choose this for the most authentic feel.
Casio's Privia line is known for excellent key actions, and the PX-160 doesn't disappoint. The Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II tracks your playing with precision, and the simulated ebony/ivory keys prevent slipping. This is the most "acoustic-like" feel you'll find under $400.