Keyboards

Types of keyboards

There are many different types of keyboards, and they suit different needs. If you are just starting to play music and need your first keyboard, you naturally have different needs than someone who has been playing for ten years. It also matters whether you play in a band, make music alone, are into blues or pop, or produce in the home studio.

Keyboards are one of the most versatile instruments within keyboard instruments. They usually have many sounds and suit many styles. Many models also have a rhythm section or groove function that can play styles – for example, a drum track or a complete arrangement you can play along with.

So whether you are looking for a cheap beginner keyboard or a professional instrument, there is a model that matches your needs. In this guide, we review the most important types of keyboards and the features you should look for. The guide is also relevant if you are looking for a keyboard for your child – most considerations apply to both children and adults. 

The most popular brands are Yamaha, Roland, Korg, and Grooveland, but several other brands in our range also deliver high quality and great playing enjoyment.

General features

There are some things you can advantageously look for, whether you choose a large, small, expensive, or affordable keyboard.

Number of keys

The smallest keyboards have two octaves – that is, 25 keys – while the largest have 88 keys, like a classical piano. Between these, you will find the most common sizes such as 49, 61, and 73 keys.

If you play with both hands and want more space, a larger keyboard is often the best choice. If you primarily use the instrument for melodies, bass lines, or music production, fewer keys may be sufficient.

Action

Action describes how heavy or light the key feels when you play. Keyboards are available with weighted, semi-weighted, synth-action, and hammer-action.

Weighted keys are more reminiscent of the feel of an acoustic piano and are popular for classical music and traditional piano playing. Synth-action is lighter and faster, which is often preferred for electronic music, solos, and fast passages.

There is no one solution that is best for everyone. It depends on your playing style and what you want from the instrument.

Velocity and touch

Most modern keyboards detect how hard and fast you press the keys. This provides more dynamics and makes the play more lively and natural.

Polyphony

Polyphony indicates how many notes the keyboard can play at once. If a keyboard, for example, has 256-note polyphony, it can handle many notes simultaneously without interrupting sounds.

MIDI and computer

MIDI does not send sound, but information about notes, velocity, and timing. Therefore, a keyboard can be used to control software instruments on a computer or external sound modules.

Many models can also be connected via USB, so you can easily connect the keyboard to a computer, tablet, or music software.

If you work with production, it might be relevant to look at a MIDI Keyboards or one of our synthesizers.

Controllers

Many keyboards have pitch bend, modulation wheel, and the possibility of connecting a sustain pedal. This provides more options during play and makes the instrument more flexible.

If you need a pedal for your setup, you can see our selection of pedals.

Keyboard piano

For the beginner who has not yet chosen a specific direction, a classic all-round keyboard is often the best choice. Here you get many sounds, rhythms, and functions in one instrument.

These models are suitable for both learning, hobby use, and light live use. Many also choose to supplement with a solid keyboard stand and a practical keyboard bag if the instrument needs to be transported.

Workstation keyboards

A workstation keyboard can best be described as a complete music workshop in one instrument. Here you often get advanced recording functions, sequencing, large sound libraries, and the ability to produce entire tracks directly on the keyboard.

Workstations are especially aimed at experienced musicians, producers, and songwriters who want many options gathered in one place.

If you work with studio production, you might also consider a MIDI Keyboard as a supplement.

Arranger keyboards

Where a workstation resembles a studio, an arranger keyboard can be compared to a musical partner. Arranger keyboards offer backing tracks, styles, and automatic accompaniments, so you can quickly build complete songs.

They are often used by solo musicians, educators, and those who want an instrument with lots of inspiration and quick access to ready-made grooves.

How many keys do you need?

It especially depends on your playing style.

If you play melodies, bass, or use the keyboard for production, 25 or 49 keys may be enough. If you play with both hands or want a more classical experience, 61 or 88 keys are often better.

If you want more of a piano feel, you can also take a look at our selection of electric pianos.

Get started with playing keyboard

Many are intimidated by the thought of notes and technique, but it doesn't have to be difficult to get started. With the right instrument and a bit of regular practice, you can quickly learn your first songs.

Sheet music may seem foreign at first, but just like letters and words, they become more natural over time.

The most important thing is to start with a keyboard that inspires you to keep playing.

Keyboard for children and beginners

When choosing a keyboard for a child or beginners, it's about balancing price, quality, and motivation.

A good beginner keyboard doesn't have to be expensive, but it should be stable, have good keys, and a sound that makes it fun to play. Many models also have teaching functions or headphone options.

It can be a great advantage to supplement with a stable keyboard stand, a keyboard bag, and a pedal, so the instrument is ready to use from the start.

Which keyboard should I choose?

The right keyboard depends on what you want to use it for.

Do you want to learn to play? Then choose a user-friendly all-round keyboard.
Do you want to produce music? Check out MIDI Keyboards or synthesizers.
Do you want a piano feel? See our selection of electric pianos.
Do you need transport and flexibility? Remember a good keyboard bag.