The best 88 keyboards for beginners available today in the market will be discussed in this article, whether you’re a beginner student, seeking for a cheaper alternative to an acoustic grand piano, or looking for the best piano with sound modeling.
A full-size piano is unquestionably a thing of beauty as well as the most unique and captivating instruments on the market today.
Naturally, the difficulty is that they are oversized, unwieldy, and immobile in their design. This means it is just inconvenient for a large number of individuals.
There are certain limitations to the acoustic in that it does not provide extra capabilities to assist you in exploring or modifying the sound.
To get started, try out the 88-key numeric keyboard, which is a full-size electronic keyboard that is meant to imitate the piano sound. It has all of the advantages of being digital, as well as the advantage of having a significantly shape factor that is small.
Everything from 88-key digital pianos up to MIDI controllers is available, ranging in price from low to high. So, let us look at 10 best 88 keyboard for beginners available on the market right now.
10 Best 88 Keyboards for Beginners
1. Alesis Coda Pro Weighted Action
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A highly well-known brand in the electronic music business, Alesis Professional has established a reputation for manufacturing outstanding heavyweight keyboards that can compete with premium manufacturers at a comparable price.
The Coda series is one of the best-selling keyboard lines, and the Coda Pro is one of the models we choose to include in this list.
This full-size 88-key weighted keyboard is intended for a wide range of applications including use by learners in their bedrooms to professionals on the go.
This is a fantastic alternative that offers a variety of useful features at a reasonable price. Here are some of the notable features about this best 88 keyboard for beginners.
Sound
There isn’t much to say about it other than that it is a numeric keypad that has a fantastic sound to it due to the weight of the keys.
All 20 tones are amazing, and it’s difficult to tell it is not a keyboard that costs more than double or thrice the normal keyboard.
Quality
Heavy hammer action keys are vital for giving your Coda Pro the sense of a high-end instrument when using it. It simulates an 88-key digital piano and it is typically quite pleasurable to play.
Every key is composed of high-quality materials, and there is no cheap plastic to be found on the surface.
Design
Coda Pro is a visually appealing keyboard that has an asymmetrical design,amusing tilted speakers and a sleek black finish. The highlight is shown by the color red making everything seem to be a high-quality product. It is equipped with a USB port which is necessary for USB MIDI.
Value
As previously noted, there is a high reputation of Alesis in providing excellent value, and that reputation definitely is evident in Coda Pro.
This best 88 keyboard for beginners performs well when compared to keyboards that are far more costly than it. As an alternative, the Alesis Recital is a good option to consider.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Exceptional quality
- A wide variety of features is available.
2. Yamaha DGX-660
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Yamaha digital pianos, being one of the world’s premier manufacturers of digital and acoustic instruments, deserve a prominent place on our list.
Yamaha provides a diverse selection of high-quality items at a variety of pricing ranges to meet a variety of customer demands. The DGX660, on the other hand, arrives first.
This is the greatest and best electronic keyboard with a reasonable budget for a weighted 88-key keyboard. It delivers pretty much everything that most pianists are looking for in a digital keyboard.
Sound
When it comes to making this best 88 keyboard for beginners sound fantastic, Yamaha has put in a lot of work. In addition, it makes use of actual grand piano samples and may be used in conjunction with various room types to create a variety of sounds. When played on speakers of high-quality, all of this sounds incredible!
Quality
Products produced by Yamaha are always of high quality, and the DGX660 is no exception to this rule. Everything has a premium sense thanks to the use of comfortable buttons and feel, as well as the use of durable construction which is an ideal feature when you take this keyboard along with you on vacation.
Design
Visually, this keyboard isn’t very noteworthy but all the components are neatly arranged with the LCD screen being quite clear. If you want an alternative of this keyboard, choose the Yamaha YPG235.
Value
This keyboard is not a cheap alternative and neither is it prohibitively costly either. This is particularly beneficial for the factor of value since it is also comes as a decent package. Make sure you double-check your budget to see whether it is still enough.
Pros
- It is jam-packed with many features.
- LCD display that is really useful
- It is compatible with iOS devices.
3. Artesia PA-88W
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You may not have heard about Virgin Musical Instruments. They are neither big nor well-known but as at now they have a wide range of high quality products.
The range of Artesia has everything you may need including monitors, headphones, and the best 88 keyboard for beginners which is the full size weight action PA88W digital keyboard.
This instrument which is designed in the United States and made in China has the lowest market price.
Despite the fact that this inexpensive keyboard lacks many capabilities, it does provide a multitude of connecting possibilities, allowing you to eventually attach any other devices you may need including apps for recording and learning.
There’s more to the 88-key keyboard than simply being a digital piano on the computer screen. It has many sounds, functions and other features.
Consider purchasing an instrument that includes transport controls and attachable sliders or knobs to make your DAW workflow more efficient if it becomes the focal point of your home studio.
Sound
The sound may be enhanced using a range of sound effects, such as chorus, that can be added to the sound. There are eight distinct voices to choose from.
The PA88W seems to be a more cost-effective alternative. Despite the fact that the piano does not have the sound of a grand piano, it is still rather good.
Quality
Despite the low price, the general quality looks decent, however there are a few creaking keys here and there, and the weight of the keys is not ideal for mid treble instruments.
Design
While the design is plain and uncomplicated, it does a decent job of conveying a professional appearance.
Value
The PA88W is an excellent option for beginners and people who wish to experiment with or play with something.
It is also offers an excellent value for the money since you can upgrade your speakers later or link with the app.
Pros
- Very excellent value for money
- There are several options for external connection.
4. Yamaha P71
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The Yamaha P71 is another Yamaha best 88 keyboard for beginners on this list, and it is a reasonably priced and great instrument.
This is one of the more straightforward Yamaha alternatives, although that is mostly because to its design. Clearly intended for individuals who travel or who have little space, this tiny and light keyboard is ideal.
Despite the fact that this Yamaha P71 is a rudimentary synthesizer, you’ll recognize it after hearing only a few samples.
The play does, however, include some well-weighted keys that give the impression that you’re truly hitting a string, and there is a distinction between the treble and the bass notes.
Despite this, it is a full-size 88-key weighted electronic keyboard that delivers the majority of the features that most players are looking for.
Sound
The sound quality produced by Yamaha P71 is amazing and quite high-satisfactory, and the audio system does a good job of delivering it.
Ten different voices are available, as well as samples taken directly from Yamaha’s most prominent grand pianos, which may be played again quickly. You may also combine many voices into a single one.
Quality
Because it’s a Yamaha, you can be certain that you’ll get high-quality sound, regardless of the fact that it’s a digital keyboard that is thin and lightweight in comparison to other options
Design
While the Yamaha P71 does not have many functions and does not have a one-touch system, it does have a really sleek and minimalist look that might appeal to a wide range of individuals.
It appeals to me much and like I said previously, the sleek design is a fantastic alternative to the larger, more useful varieties of the same product.
Value
There’s little doubt about its price value. This is a reasonably priced Yamaha product. While it has a lot of features, the usefulness is restricted.
You can obtain more features under the same budget elsewhere but not in nearly the same lightweight compact.
Pros
- Design that is slim and lightweight Minimalist
- Exceptional key feel
Cons
- The features are limited
5. Casio Privia PX160BK 88key
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Almost without a doubt, you’re aware that Casio manufactures watches but are you also aware that they also manufacture keyboards?
Here’s a look at the Casio Privia PX160, one of the full-frame alternatives available in the Casio series, which is intended to deliver the best mix of affordability and capability for a midrange 88-key keyboard.
This is a best 88 keyboard for beginners which are designed to be as close to a grand piano. Despite the lack of a lesson mode, you can still make advantage of the great hammer action weighted keys in addition to the external connection functions.
Because the Privia PX160 is class-compliant USB, you won’t need to install a driver on your Mac or PC to use it.
Sound
Although the speakers on this Casio Privia are of extremely good quality, it is the sound quality of its samples and the ability of the keyboard to layer and split the sound that really stand out. This results in a very rich and realistic tone.
Quality
When it comes to reliability and quality, Casio and other many Japanese instrument manufacturers have a solid reputation to uphold, and reviewing customer feedback and reviews from people who own such instruments reveals that there are very few complaints about the finish on this keyboard.
Design
Casio Privia PX160BK is not one of the most visually appealing keyboards listed here and neither is it certainly the worst. It is also available in standard black and light gold finishes.
Value
This digital keyboard is not expensive and it’s always a good investment and consistently earns a great rating. It does, however, lack a number of useful functions.
It is also possible that their worth will be limited if you are seeking for classes or other additional features. Check out the Casio PX860 as an option.
Pros
- The Keys have a nice hammer action
- It produces Exceptional sound
Cons
- It has a simple appearance.
- Other low-cost alternatives provide more.
6. Kawai ES110
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The ES110 is Kawai’s top-of-the-line model. Considering that this Japanese company is popular for producing electronic musical instruments and grand pianos, you may expect to get a high-quality digital keyboard from them.
We went with the grand Kawai model ES110 because it’s portable and not expensive. This best 88 keyboards for beginners have a subtle appearance; does not have a screen or switch banks, yet it is an excellent mid-range solution.
Apart from the lesson mode and split digital keyboard possibilities, the instrument also has hundreds of different drum tracks and on board metronome, among other features.
Don’t be deceived by the fact that there aren’t many buttons. It contains a plethora of features.
Sound
This digital keyboard uses harmonic imaging technology to utilize the sound samples and offer a remarkably accurate reproduction of the sound of a grand piano, producing a tone that is full of life and warm.
Quality
Although it is a high-end instrument with excellent build quality, Kawai has done an excellent job of keeping everything small and lightweight.
Design
Every button and speaker strip is contained inside a single strip on the left side of the board, with speaker strips gently spanning the top of the board. It’s fantastic.
Value
Kawai ES110 is more expensive than the majority digital keyboards listed here even though if you are low on budget, you can still get the same features it has for a little less money elsewhere.
So unless you’re prepared to pay a class-leading premium, this is a solid investment.
Pros
· It is excellent in every way.
Cons
- When compared to alternatives, this is a somewhat expensive option.
7. Nektar IMPACT LX88
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Despite the fact that Nektar LX88 is a brand of digital piano not known by many, it is a really fascinating alternative, and you should be aware of this specific digital keyboard’s existence.
The fact that it is so inexpensive does not detract from the fact that it is a feature-rich 88-key MIDI digital piano that can do practically every function you would expect from such a keyboard. Continue reading to find out why we believe it is worth your time to check it out.
This best 88 keyboard for beginners is controlled by a MIDI system and can be used with almost any MIDI software package running on your Mac, laptop, PC or anything that depends on MDI connection.
Additionally, this keyboard comes with layer/split, slew of faders, eight drum pads and knobs that gives you complete control of the sound produced by the keyboard.
Because of the wide range of functions and features, you won’t need as many accessories as you may think.
Sound
If you have the correct tools, it is possible to produce amazing sound using this keyboard, but this does not mean it is tough to determine if it sounds good or awful without listening to it.
It all depends on what you connect to it given that there is a plethora of customizing choices available.
Quality
Despite the cheap price, the product’s overall quality is rather good. The keys are really pleasant to use, and there are no issues with their quality. It seems as if the whole device is securely put together.
Design
Nektar IMPACT LX88 is a stunning collection of accessories, with incredibly smooth flat surfaces, vibrant drum pads, and bright buttons.
Actually, it’s a lot more visually attractive than the other digital keyboards on our list, and it absolutely matches the electronic music style you may want to use to produce your song.
Value
This keyboard is one of the reasonable and cheapest full-size 88-key semi-weighted MIDI keyboard on the market, but its speakers are not built-in like the other conventional keyboards in this article. This means you will be forced to buy speakers and in that case end up spending more.
Pros
- Design is excellent
- It has many options for customizing sound
- Exceptionally well-made
Cons
- Some customers have reported that their playing sessions are cut short due to connection issues.
8. Yamaha P115
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The P115 is the last Yamaha model on this list. Anyone seeking for a high-quality digital piano with excellent all-around performance will like this mid-range to high-end model.
Despite the fact that it is still considered a compact and lightweight keyboard, it boasts a plethora of useful functions and is one of the more expensive selections on the list. Let us check out why the Yamaha P115 is so highly recommended.
In addition to 14 distinct voices, there is a variety of effects to pick from, as well as a plethora of connection choices, including the ability to use them on your iOS smartphone.
If you want to make the Yamaha P115 stand out from the crowd, you can also take use of the simple sound boost function. There is also a split system that is innovative.
This implies that you may divide your digital piano into two areas of 44 keys, one for duets and the other for practice with your instructor.
Sound
This is undoubtedly the greatest digital keyboard on this guide for recreating the feel and sound of a genuine acoustic piano. It uses damper resonance and 192 note polyphony to create a rich and genuine sound.
Quality
The construction quality is excellent. The keys are perfectly level, and there is no extraneous noise when they are first turned on.
Design
The Yamaha P115 is available in either white or black. Instead of the typical digital keyboard that comes in black color, this is a welcome change. The keys are about the same size as the speakers.
Value
A digital keyboard like the Yamaha P115 is in the center of the price range, although some models provide more functionality for a lesser price. As a result, it is possible that the sound quality will not be the same.
Pros
- Outstanding audio quality
- Functions that is new to piano industry
- Superiority in design and construction
Cons
- For a lower priced keyboard, you may get more features.
9. Korg B1SP
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A well-known name in the music world is Korg which is a brand that makes some of the best electronic keyboards.
From leads to effect pedals, this Japanese brand is well-known for their high-quality items. Vox, the renowned guitar amp brand, is also manufactured by Korg.
The B1SP is an 88-key weighted keyboard that has been included in our selection. It’s a digital piano like the others, and it strives to replicate the sound as accurately as possible.
In terms of Korg’s general quality, this is a middle-range entry-level best 88 keyboard for beginners. The B1SP is similar to the standard B1 in many ways apart from the pedals it comes along with.
You will not only get a wonderful sensation but also 8 distinct voices and the Hammer action. However, if the kit is designed to sound like a piano, it will not have any extra features.
Sound
The Korg’s audio system is among the best we’ve seen in any keyboard we’ve tested so far. This grand piano’s rich, crisp, full sound may be attributed to the MFB servo generation and passive radiator in the B1SP.
Quality
Despite the price, it is an instrument of high-quality. The keyboard is still quite light, even though it feels robust and well-finished.
Design
The B1SP is the most attractive keyboard on our list. Discrete buttons, knobs, and minimalist aesthetics combine to create a stunning piece of furniture. The speaker aperture that spans the full length of the keyboard is the most eye-catching feature.
Value
This 88-key electronic piano has a low price tag. Despite the limited number of capabilities, it does an excellent job at simulating the sound and feel of a piano. That said, the pricing is very appealing if you’re searching for it.
Pros
- Spectacular workmanship.
- Exquisite in terms of both feel and sound.
Cons
- The features are limited.
10. M-Audio Hammer
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Based in the United Kingdom, MAudio is a well-known name in the digital music business having produced everything from software to monitors with a strong emphasis on MIDI creation.
There is also a Hammer 88-key Digital Home Keyboard included in this package, which is a very good intermediate choice for individuals who like the tactile feedback provided by the controller. It includes a large amount of applications to get you up and running quickly.
There are no speakers on the keyboard since it is an independent MIDI controller piano which you may take use of functions such as an 88-key digital piano with pedals, weighted keys, modulation, pitch bend, and other features.
It does, however, have superb hammer action and speed-sensitive keys, which is a major selling feature for many people who use it.
Sound
Being a digital keyboard, I don’t know what it will sound like, but the touch-sensitive keys that duplicate the speed are mirrored in the sound of your playing style.
Quality
This is a well-built, robust keyboard that doesn’t have the cheap feel of an entry-level model. For some, the weight may be a problem, but it’s really rather durable.
It’s about twice as heavy as some of the lesser choices, weighing in at 40 pounds.
Design
It’s a simple keyboard with a simple design, but that’s okay. Compared to other keyboards we’ve tried, the sliders and switches on the board’s left side seem to be less expensive, but they still look nice.
Value
If you already have a MIDI controller and want to get the most out of it but don’t want to invest a lot of money, this is a perfect option for you.
Pros
- Excellent quality and
- The keys feel great
Cons
- It has limited function when used alone
- It is very heavy
Best 88 Keyboards for Beginners: Buying Guide
What to Look For When Buying Best 88 Keyboard For Beginners
In order to get the most out of our purchasing advice, it is important to know precisely what you are looking at.
As a result, we’ve compiled this buying guide, which includes sections for each of the keyboards we tested.
Features
Features are one of the most crucial factors to consider since it is a component that actually distinguishes the majority of keyboards.
Because they are electronic devices, they may be equipped with a wide range of functionalities that can be combined. Continue reading to find some of the most frequent ones you could need.
A lot of people who play keyboards insist on having realistic buttons since they make them feel much more comfortable.
Each key’s weight is intended to simulate the movement of the hammer on a genuine acoustic piano, and this weight changes as you progress from the lower tone notes to higher.
Metronomes and learning modes are only a few of the significant tools that may assist beginner players in learning how to play or improving their existing abilities.
In addition, connectivity is another functionality that is very important to every pianist. With a Public Address System, PC or Headphone Jack, you may want to USE the output functionality by connecting your keyboard with a smart device or external speakers among them headphones.
Therefore you must always check a keyboard connectivity options before choosing to buy one.
Sound
Acoustic pianos are very sensitive to sound and that is the main reason digital keyboard producers seek to create the greatest possible sound by using a variety of methods, designs, and materials. A unique feature of this keyboard is that it does not generate any acoustic sound.
However, a digital keyboard just plays sounds that are samples of an acoustic piano. These sounds have been manipulated or programmed electronically.
When you contemplate the sound that comes out of your keyboard, you don’t think about the regular factors that come into play.
The main question that many pianists wish to check or learn is how the Yamaha sample was achieved in their digital pianos. This is because Yamaha uses electronic sounds from the most renowned concert grand piano recordings.
Better sound samples are used in higher-quality instruments. Therefore, you should think about the sound choices available to you with your keyboard, which include anything from distinct voices to effects that you may apply to your keyboard.
Last but not least, there is the feature of a built-in speaker. When not utilizing headphones or external audio output speakers, they may make a significant difference in the sound quality that is generated.
The higher the quality of the built-in speaker, the amazing the sound and the more like playing a real piano it would sound. Deeper bass and sharper treble may be felt as well.
Many MIDI keyboards do not come with built-in speakers, which is unfortunate. It is designed to be used in conjunction with other devices.
Higher-level MIDI controllers, on the other hand, are occasionally capable of doing so.
Quality
It is important to consider the quality of any instrument while purchasing one. A poorly constructed keyboard may not be able to endure the stresses of being moved from one place to another on a regular basis.
I often store my keyboard in a drawer and only use it while I’m practicing somewhere else. Alternatively, you may perform it during a concert. To get some inspiration, read customer evaluations of earlier models.
Design
Not all people will consider the design of a keyboard yet it is always something to consider, especially when you consider that an instrument may be considered an artistic creation in its own right.
Do you want your instruments to be minimalistic and sleek in design or you prefer the look of a collection of switches, knobs, and sliders to be more traditional in appearance?
Despite the fact that most electric keyboards are only available in black, in this list of the best 88 keyboard for beginners, there are pairs that are also available in white to give you some ideas.
Value
Everyone, regardless of what they purchase, need value for their money. We have discussed it briefly in this guide to assist you in determining whether or not you’re spending well your money.
The budget choices are inherently appealing but they are not always worth the money spent on them.
Due to the additional features or the superior quality of certain mid-range digital keyboards, they are a little more costly but are really worth a lot more money.
What is an 88 Key Keyboard?
An 88-key keyboard is a full-size hammer action keyboard which has 52 white keys and 36 keys that are black on a standard keyboard layout.
This is the most popular size; however there are several more options available as well.
How Many Keys On Piano?
In a normal full-size piano, there are 88 keys, which are divided into 36 black and 53 white keys. This consists of a minor third and seven complete octaves. Some antique pianos have less keys, although some synthesizers have just 25 keys.
How Many Piano Keys Do I Need On A Keyboard?
This is a common query, particularly when physical space is the main concern. 88 keys are required to play the keyboard effectively.
Beginners, on the other hand, may learn to play 61 or 76 miniature keyboard instruments by mastering the fundamentals.
According to the findings, those with smaller hands may benefit from smaller pianos.
Best 88 Keyboard For Beginners
People learning how to play a keyboard will want certain features because complex options and capabilities might be perplexing yet certain features are meant to aid in learning.
These features include keys that light up when playing, dual boards, and play-along tunes. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding an appropriate lesson mode since they are found even on lower quality keyboards.
Conclusion
You are now ready to choose your new instrument because you are aware of what to look for in a keyboard with 88 keys including their alternatives.
The easiest way to accomplish this is to sit back, write a list of all the things that are essential and compare it to what we have highlighted in this guide of the best 88 keyboard for beginners.
Finally, you’ll discover the perfect keyboard for you, and you’ll be pleased with your pick!