Best Portable and Digital Keyboards for Beginners 

For the sake of viewer convenience, the content is shown below in the alternative language. You may click the link to switch the active language.

Questions? or if interested in piano lessons, please email us at info@88KeysMusicAcademy.com or call 626.445.KEYS (5397)

---

Purchasing a piano for your beginner can be quite a daunting task. The options are endless: upright acoustic pianos, grand pianos, digital keyboards. Beyond that, these days many different companies manufacture reliable pianos from Yamaha to Kawai. Pianos are quite the investment, so it is imperative that enough research goes into looking for a keyboard that will be the best fit for the beginning pianist. Here are our picks for portable and digital keyboards for beginners.

What to Look for in a Beginner Keyboard

Before we dive into the keyboards, let’s briefly go over what makes a keyboard beginner-friendly:

• Weighted or semi-weighted keys that mimic a real piano’s feel
• Touch sensitivity to develop dynamic playing
• Portability for flexible practice spaces
• Connectivity options for apps and recording
• Sound quality that inspires consistent practice
• Now let’s explore some standout choices.

Keyboards Options

---

1. Yamaha P-125 – $699

Best For: Intermediate beginners who want an acoustic-like feel and great sound

Why We Like It:
The P-125 feels like an acoustic piano without the bulk. With high-quality speakers and Yamaha’s signature touch response, this is an excellent long-term choice for serious learners.

Pros:

• 4 levels of touch sensitivity

• Realistic piano tone

• Onboard instrumental & drum styles

• Great built-in speakers

Cons:

• Less portable due to its size

• Lacks a soft pedal

 

 

---

2. Alesis Recital Pro – $379

Best For: Beginners on a budget who want versatility and MIDI connectivity

Why We Like It:
This model punches above its price class, making it perfect for beginners dabbling with digital audio workstations (DAWs) or online learning platforms.

Pros:

• 88 full-sized keys

• 12 built-in voices with layering & split modes

• USB-MIDI connectivity

Cons:

• Semi-weighted keys

• Limited polyphony

 

 

 

 

---

3. Yamaha P-45 – $399

Best For: Beginners who want a straightforward, realistic piano experience

Why We Like It:
If you’re just starting out and want something simple and reliable, the P-45 delivers the essentials with Yamaha’s excellent build quality.

Pros:

• Affordable and compact

• 88 graded hammer standard keys

• Dual-mode sounds

Cons:

• Basic sound quality

• No Bluetooth or MIDI

• Fixed pedal

 

 

---

4. Roland Go: Keys GO-61K – $350

Best For: Creative learners and younger students who love experimenting

Why We Like It:
Fun and intuitive, the GO-61K is great for kids and creative adults who want to explore soundscapes and loop-based music creation.

Pros:

• Over 500 onboard sounds

• Interactive features for creative play

• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Only 61 keys

• Keys are not fully weighted

 

 

 

 

---

5. Korg B2 – $499

Best For: Minimalists who value piano feel and clean sound

Why We Like It:
The Korg B2 blends simplicity with sophistication. If your focus is classical or solo piano and you want something sleek and straightforward, this one’s for you.

Pros:

• Excellent key feel

• Quality speakers

• USB connectivity

Cons:

• Lacks extra sound features

• No Bluetooth

 

 

 

 

---

Final Thoughts

Every beginner’s needs are different, and that’s why we offer personalized recommendations at 88 Keys Music Academy. Whether you’re aiming to become a classical pianist, a pop artist, or just want to play for fun, there’s a keyboard on this list for you.

Ready to start your musical journey?
Please email us at info@88KeysMusicAcademy.com or call 626.445.KEYS (5397)