Have you ever sat down at a piano and felt a magical connection? That feeling is special. But finding the perfect piano can feel like a huge puzzle. So many models exist! Some are big, some are small. Some have fancy features, while others keep things simple. It’s easy to feel lost in all the choices.
Choosing the right piano matters a lot. A good piano makes learning fun. A bad one can stop you from wanting to play. You worry about spending too much money or picking something that won’t fit your space. These worries are real for many aspiring pianists.
This post will clear up the confusion. We will break down what makes a piano great for you. You will learn exactly what features matter most. By the end, you will feel confident about your next piano purchase.
Let’s dive into the world of pianos and find your perfect match!
Top Of Piano Recommendations
- The RockJam 5061 keyboard piano super kit includes a digital keyboard with 61 full-size keys giving you that traditional piano feel whilst maintaining a portable and compact design that can be powered by either mains (power supply included) or batteries
- This RockJam 5061 piano keyboard features a LED panel that both displays and engages the 200 rhythms, 200 tones, a teaching function, and 30 demo songs that are part of its functionality
- The RockJam 5061 electric piano has record and playback functionality allowing you to build layers to your sound and an aux input so you can play along to your favorite songs
- This music keyboard super kit package includes a keyboard stand that is sturdy in design and can be adjusted to suit keyboard piano players both young and old
- This electric piano keyboard super kit contains a padded seat that is easily folded and has a thick padded seat for hours of comfortable play
- 𝗡𝗢 𝗦𝗧𝗜𝗖𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗥𝗘𝗗：The BEATBIT Note Strip is made of silicone, and connects the labels in series, so there is no need to stick to the keys like piano stickers. Easy-to-install, Easy-to-remove, without leaving any residue, and keeping your keyboard clean and tidy.
- 𝗗𝗢𝗨𝗕𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗙𝗙 𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗘𝗧：Showing the note of each key with double staff, which helps to find the corresponding key from the keyboard faster, because all piano scores use the treble and bass staff structure.
- 𝗕𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗥 𝗙𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗟𝗬：You don't need to know the names of the keys or where the Middle C is, you just need to put the note strips on the piano keyboard. Done in seconds!
- 𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘 & 𝗥𝗘𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗕𝗟𝗘：When you start to know the keys and become familiar with the octave rule, you can remove the note strips from the keyboard. Of course, if you feel that you are not skilled enough, you can put it back at any time.
- 𝗙𝗜𝗧 𝟴𝟴-𝗞𝗘𝗬 & 𝟲𝟭-𝗞𝗘𝗬：Perfect for grand pianos, upright pianos, 88-key、61-key digital pianos and keyboards.
- 🎹 Size: Suitable for all 88/61/54/49/37 key pianos and keyboards. White key sticker 4.0cmX1.55cm(1.57”X0.61”). Black key sticker 3.9cmX0.85cm(1.54”X0.33”).
- 🎹 Durable: The letters are printed on the backside of the transparent sticker, so they can withstand constant impact of fingers, will be always legible and never fade. Waterproof, when the surface is dirty, simply wipe it with a damp cloth to clean.
- 🎹 No Glue Left: The adhesive on the backside is clean and durable, can be removed / pasted many times. Leaving no residue on piano keys, completely no harm to keyboard.
- 🎹 Good Feeling: Piano key stickers are very thin and you can barely feel them when you play the piano. The sticker has a smooth surface and no resistance, making it comfortable when practicing techniques such as portamento and arpeggios.
- 🎹 Easy to Read: The piano letters are large enough, clear, and easy to read, kids feel joyful to learn the piano and memorize note positions. Great for beginners and little masters.
- Comprehensive Beginner's Bundle: Embark on your musical journey with an 88-Key Electric Digital Piano that features semi-weighted keys, delivering an authentic and immersive playing experience. This all-inclusive package comprises essential accessories, including a Sustain Pedal, Power Supply, Stand, Carrying Case, and Headphones, making it the ideal choice for beginners seeking a seamless start to their musical exploration.a1
- Diverse Sound Palette and Inspiration: Unleash your creative potential with a wide array of sound options, encompassing 128 different instrument voices and rhythms. This versatility allows you to explore and experiment with a variety of musical styles. Dive into the world of music with 80 included demo songs, serving as a valuable resource for practice and performance, enriching your musical repertoire and providing inspiration.
- Authentic Playing Experience: Equipped with a standard touch-sensitive keyboard, this digital piano ensures that you experience the genuine feel and responsiveness of a traditional piano, catering to individuals of all skill levels.
- Seamless Connectivity with Bluetooth: Enjoy the convenience of Bluetooth functionality, which enables effortless connections to other devices. This feature expands your creative horizons, making collaboration and musical exploration a breeze.
- Portability and Convenience: With the included Carrying Case, you can take your music on the go, allowing you to play your favorite tunes wherever inspiration strikes. The Stand and Headphones facilitate practice and performance without constraints, ensuring your music accompanies you on your artistic journey.a1
- Hal Leonard Model#HL00420171
- English (Publication Language)
- 64 Pages - 01/01/1996 (Publication Date) - Faber Piano Adventures (Publisher)
- Over 45 Songs Teaching Dynamics and Use of the Pedal
- Arranged for Piano
- Standard Notation
- Publisher: Faber Piano Adventures
- 64 Pages
- Ferrante, Damon (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 121 Pages - 07/23/2017 (Publication Date) - Steeplechase Arts (Publisher)
- The RockJam 61 Key Keyboard Piano (RJ361) features 61 keys and is packed with 200 sounds, 200 rhythms, and 10 demo songs, making it an ideal keyboard piano for beginners and experienced musicians alike.
- Enhance your musical creativity with the sustain and vibrato functions, along with the record and playback capabilities, ensuring this digital piano meets all your musical needs.
- This kids piano is perfect for young musicians, featuring piano keynote stickers to help visualize notes and improve muscle memory, making it a great educational tool.
- The RockJam keyboard includes a headphone socket for private practice and is compatible with the Simply Piano app, as a RockJam customer you receive exclusive content straight out of the box.
- With a sturdy and compact design, this electric piano is ideal for home use or on-the-go practice, ensuring you can play music anytime, anywhere.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your New Piano
Buying a piano is exciting! This guide helps you choose the right one. We cover what matters most so you make a great choice.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a piano, certain features really matter. These features affect how the piano sounds and how long it lasts.
Keyboard Action and Feel
The keys are very important. Look for weighted keys. Weighted keys feel like an acoustic piano. They offer more control when you play. Beginner pianos sometimes have lighter keys. Try different pianos to see what feels best for your hands. Good action makes learning fun.
Number of Keys
Most full-size pianos have 88 keys. This is the standard. If you are a beginner or have limited space, a 61-key or 76-key keyboard might work. However, 88 keys let you play almost any music.
Sound Quality (For Digital Pianos)
Digital pianos use samples of real pianos. Look for pianos with high-quality sound samples. Some models let you adjust the touch sensitivity. This means the volume changes based on how hard you press the key. This feature is crucial for expressive playing.
2. Important Materials
The materials used affect the piano’s durability and sound.
Acoustic Pianos
Acoustic pianos use wood extensively. Solid spruce is often used for the soundboard. This wood helps the sound resonate beautifully. The strings are usually made of steel wire. The hammers, which hit the strings, are covered in felt. High-quality felt gives a richer tone.
Digital Pianos
Digital pianos focus more on electronics. The cabinet is often made of durable plastic or pressed wood. The most important material is the speaker system. Better speakers produce clearer sound. Also, check the quality of the key material; some use plastic, while others use simulated wood for a better feel.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one piano better than another? It often comes down to how it’s built and maintained.
For Acoustic Pianos
Pedals: A good acoustic piano has three pedals: sustain, soft, and sostenuto. More pedals mean more musical options. Regular tuning is essential. A well-maintained piano keeps its value and sounds perfect. Poor humidity control damages the wood and reduces quality quickly.
For Digital Pianos
Polyphony: This refers to how many notes the piano can play at once. Higher polyphony (like 128 notes or more) prevents notes from cutting off when you play complex music. Connectivity improves usability. Look for USB ports to connect to computers for lessons or recording. Cheap digital pianos often use lower-quality speakers and plastic keys, which reduce the playing experience.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about who will play the piano and where it will go.
Beginners
Beginners need a piano that feels good and encourages practice. A digital piano with a headphone jack is perfect for quiet practice. Acoustic pianos require a dedicated space where noise isn’t an issue.
Intermediate/Advanced Players
These players need responsiveness. They should focus on full 88-weighted keys and excellent sound reproduction. Digital users might look for features like recording capabilities. Acoustic players focus on the brand reputation and the condition of the soundboard.
Portability and Space
If you move often or have a small apartment, a digital piano is the clear choice. Acoustic pianos are heavy and take up permanent space. Always measure your space before buying an upright or grand piano.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying a Piano
Q: What is the main difference between acoustic and digital pianos?
A: Acoustic pianos use real strings and hammers to make sound through vibration. Digital pianos use electronics and speakers to play recorded sounds.
Q: Do I need 88 keys if I am just starting?
A: While you can start with fewer keys, 88 keys let you learn all the standard music. It is best for long-term learning.
Q: How often must an acoustic piano be tuned?
A: Most experts suggest tuning an acoustic piano at least once or twice a year. Temperature and humidity changes affect the tuning.
Q: What does “weighted action” mean on a digital piano?
A: Weighted action means the keys feel heavy, similar to an acoustic piano. This helps build finger strength and control.
Q: Can I plug headphones into an acoustic piano?
A: No, you cannot plug headphones directly into a standard acoustic piano. Only digital pianos have headphone jacks for silent practice.
Q: What is polyphony, and why does it matter?
A: Polyphony is the number of notes a digital piano can play at the same time. Higher numbers mean richer, less interrupted music.
Q: Are used pianos a good idea?
A: Used acoustic pianos can be a great value, but you must have a technician check them first. Used digital pianos are often fine if they look well-cared for.
Q: What material is best for piano keys?
A: For digital pianos, keys made of simulated ebony or wood feel much better than basic plastic.
Q: Do I need a special bench for my piano?
A: Yes, you should get an adjustable piano bench. Adjusting the height correctly improves your posture and playing comfort.
Q: What is the least expensive type of piano I should consider?
A: The least expensive good option is usually a quality entry-level digital piano with 88 weighted keys. Avoid the cheapest non-weighted keyboards for serious study.