The key word in all this is “controller”. They are sometimes also kitted out with various buttons, knobs, sliders and drum pads to control sounds and effects. These can be used in tandem with a computer and Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software to record and edit your performances, and allow you to transform your keyboard into a vast range of acoustic and electrical instruments using virtual instruments.Īs with other keyboards, MIDI controllers can be full size keyboards with 88 weighted keys, or much smaller controllers (sometimes even just one octave long) with semi-weighted or unweighted keys. If you’re into music production, then you’ll likely want a MIDI keyboard or keyboard controller. You can also buy digital pianos with 76, 61 and even 49 keys. What size keyboard do I need?Ī standard piano is 88 keys (seven octaves), but you might not necessarily need a full-size keyboard – particularly if you’re just starting out. Cheaper keyboards might not have the full 88 keys, nor will they feel like you’re playing on a real piano, but they’re a good option if you’re just looking to play around and have some fun - they’re usually more portable too. On the other hand, if you’re a beginner or you’re dealing with a tight budget, you might not want to make such an investment. Naturally, these are going to cost a bit more, but – if your budget allows it – the experience of playing on a full-size piano with pedals can’t be beaten. If you’re after an authentic feel and sound, or you’re serious about learning the piano, it’s worth getting yourself a decent digital model. This really depends on what you want out of your piano. How to choose the best digital piano for you Keyboard vs digital piano?

Best ‘real feeling’ digital piano: Kawai CA59.

Best entry level MIDI controller: Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A Series.

Best mid-range keyboard for beginners: Casio CT-S1.

Best cheap folding keyboard: Carry-On Folding Piano.

Best digital piano under £1,000: Yamaha YDP-144.

We’ve put together a handy buyer’s guide to answer any questions you might have, and to help you find the right digital piano for you. What size keyboard is right for you? Are you looking for something portable? Do you want lots of voice options, or just a realistic piano sound? Do you need pedals? Whether you’re after a beginner’s keyboard or something more serious, there are a lot of options out there.

Nevertheless, there are still a lot of questions to ask yourself when buying a digital piano, particularly if you’re considering buying your first piano.

Going digital means you don’t have to worry so much about issues such as space, transport, or tuning that come with owning the real thing. From classical and jazz, to contemporary pop music whatever your forte, the best digital piano is a versatile instrument.

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