Introducing the ultimate guide to the "10 Best 88 Key Keyboards for 2023." If you're a musician or an aspiring piano player, finding the perfect keyboard can be a daunting task. With numerous options available in the market, it's essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs and preferences. In this comprehensive review, we have meticulously researched and handpicked the top ten 88 key keyboards for the year 2023. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, our expert recommendations will help you navigate through the plethora of choices, ensuring you invest in a keyboard that offers exceptional sound quality, durability, and versatility. So, let's dive into the world of keyboards and discover the best options available in 2023.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Alesis Recital is a feature-packed electric keyboard with 88 full-sized semi-weighted keys, ideal for players of all levels. It offers 5 different voices, built-in effects, and powerful speakers for crystal-clear sound. The keyboard also has various connectivity options, including sustain pedal input and headphone output. It can be powered by either the included power adapter or batteries, making it portable for on-the-go performances. The Alesis Recital comes with educational features such as split, layer, and lesson modes, as well as a premium subscription to Skoove for online piano lessons. Additionally, it offers 60 free virtual lessons from Melodics to enhance your skills. Overall, it is a versatile and high-quality digital piano keyboard at an affordable price point.
Key Features
- 88 premium full-sized semi-weighted keys
- 5 voices with built-in effects
- 2 built-in 20W speakers for clear sound
- Connectivity options for pedal, headphones, and speakers
- Powered by adapter or batteries for portability
- Educational features and online piano lessons included
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 50.00Lx12.00Wx4.00H
- Size: Recital
Pros
- High-quality sound and touch response
- Versatile features for different playing styles
- Portable design with battery option
- Includes educational resources and lessons
- Affordable price compared to similar keyboards
Cons
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity
- Stand does not securely hold an i Pad
The Alesis Recital is a fantastic option for musicians of all levels who are looking for a high-quality digital piano keyboard without breaking the bank. It offers a wide range of features and premium sound quality, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced players. The inclusion of educational resources and online lessons is a valuable addition, allowing users to improve their skills and explore different genres. The portable design with the option to use batteries is a convenient feature for those who want to perform on-the-go. The only minor drawbacks are the lack of Bluetooth connectivity for wireless earbud use and the stand’s limitations with holding an iPad. However, considering its overall performance and affordability, the Alesis Recital earns a solid score of 8.5 out of 10.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The Starfavor Semi-weighted Piano Keyboard is a feature-rich electronic keyboard perfect for beginners. With 88 high-quality semi-weighted keys, it provides a touch similar to that of a grand piano, allowing for sensitive sound changes. The keyboard is also designed to reduce the sense of force, making playing more comfortable. It offers 128 tones, 128 rhythms, and 80 demonstration songs with recording function, allowing beginners to record and practice their performances. The keyboard has various external connections, including a headphone jack, audio input, sustain foot pedal, and USB-MIDI interface, meeting basic recording needs. Portable and lightweight at just 11 pounds, it can be powered by 4 AA batteries and comes with a carrying case. Overall, it is an educational and versatile keyboard for beginners.
Key Features
- Feature-rich electronic keyboard with 88 high-quality semi-weighted keys
- 128 tones, 128 rhythms, and 80 demonstration songs with recording function
- Various external connections including headphone jack and USB-MIDI interface
- Portable and lightweight design with carrying case
- Educational inspired function for learning and practice
Specifications
- Color: 88 Key Keyboard +Piano Stand +Pedal +Headphone
- Dimension: 58.00Lx13.00Wx4.00H
- Size: Compact with Piano Stand
Pros
- High-quality touch and sensitive sound changes
- Multifunctional performance with recording function
- Various external connections for flexibility
- Portable and lightweight design with carrying case
- Educational inspired function for learning and practice
Cons
- Poorly translated assembly instructions for the stand
- Keys can be stiff and require more force to press
The Starfavor Semi-weighted Piano Keyboard is a fantastic option for beginners. With its high-quality touch and versatile features, it provides an excellent learning and practice experience. The keyboard’s lightweight and portable design make it convenient to take anywhere, and the included carrying case ensures its safety. The various external connections allow for flexibility in recording and playback. However, the poorly translated assembly instructions for the stand can be a minor drawback. Overall, this keyboard offers great value for its price and is highly recommended for beginners who are looking to learn and practice the piano.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The Best Choice Products 88-Key Full Size Digital Piano Electronic Keyboard Set is the ideal instrument for aspiring musicians with limited space. It features 88 semi-weighted keys, allowing for a realistic playing experience. The piano set also includes a sustain pedal for sound adjustment, a compact folding stand, a music stand, and built-in speakers for a rich spectrum of sound. With six sound settings, users can explore different instruments and piano styles. The digital piano can be connected to various devices, making it versatile and convenient. Despite the affordable price, some customers have reported minor issues such as the keys being less weighted and the book stand being fragile. Overall, it is a great value for beginners.
Key Features
- 88 semi-weighted keys
- Sustain pedal
- Compact folding stand
- Music stand
- Built-in speakers
- Six sound settings
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 50.75Lx11.25Wx4.50H
- Size: Full
Pros
- Realistic playing experience with semi-weighted keys
- Affordable and good value for beginners
- Compact and portable design
- Versatile sound settings
- High-quality speakers
Cons
- Keys are less weighted for advanced players
- Fragile book stand
- Minor packaging issues reported
- Keys make some noise
The Best Choice Products 88-Key Digital Piano Keyboard offers a great combination of affordability and functionality, making it suitable for beginners and those with limited space. Despite some minor drawbacks with the weighted keys and fragile book stand, the piano itself provides a realistic playing experience with a variety of sound settings to explore. The compact and portable design, along with the built-in speakers, add to its convenience. Overall, it is a solid choice for individuals looking to start their musical journey or those seeking a practice instrument.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The Longeye Piano Keyboard 88 Keys Compact Digital Piano for Beginners is the perfect starter package, including everything a beginner needs to get started. It features 88 full-size semi-weighted keys that provide an exceptional playing experience. With a sturdy and compact design, this piano is ideal for piano enthusiasts residing in apartments or dormitories. The kit includes a double-X stand, key stickers, a music rest, headphones, a USB power adapter, and a sustain pedal. The digital piano offers various functions such as split, record/play, and a built-in music library. It also offers multiple connectivity options, including Bluetooth and MIDI. With a sleek black color, this piano is both stylish and practical. Start your musical journey today with the Longeye Piano Keyboard 88 Keys Compact Digital Piano for Beginners.
Key Features
- -[Perfect Kit for Beginners] The Longeye 88 set is the perfect starter package, including everything a beginner needs to get started. It features a sturdy double-X stand that provides extra stability, along with a complete set of key stickers that help beginners simplify and accelerate their piano mastery. Additionally, the kit comes with a music rest, headphones, a USB power adapter, and a sustain pedal. Start your musical journey today with the Longeye 88 set.
- -[88 Full-size Semi-weighted Keys] The Longeye digital piano has 100% full-size piano keys, providing an exceptional playing experience. Its semi-weighted touch closely imitates that of an acoustic piano, allowing beginners to become acquainted with acoustic piano touch without a high price tag. Additionally, the touch response feature enhances the digital piano's dynamic performance by sensing the pressure of each key and adjusting the volume of each note accordingly.
- -[Portable and Lightweight] With a measurement of 49.2" * 8.27" * 2.6", the Longeye digital piano is designed to be compact, making it a perfect option for piano enthusiasts residing in apartments or dormitories. Weighing less than 10 lbs and accompanied by a durable carrying case, you can take it with you wherever you go. It is also equipped with a large-capacity battery, providing you the convenience to play it without any power supply concerns.
- -[Multifunctional] The Longeye digital piano offers various functions, making it highly multifunctional. With the split function, you can divide the keyboard into two sections, allowing two people to play at the same time. The record/play function enables you to listen to your performance and track your progress. Moreover, the built-in music library comprises 128 tones, 128 rhythms, and 21 demo songs, along with several practical features such as Metronome, Transpose, Tempo, and Vibrate.
- -[Multiple Connectivity Options] The Longeye digital piano offers multiple connectivity options to suit your preferences. The 3.5mm headphone jack is ideal for private practice sessions without disturbing others. The built-in Bluetooth feature allows you to play your favorite songs through the piano's speakers. Moreover, you can connect the piano to your i Phone or i Pad through Bluetooth MIDI, enabling you to create original music and access various piano apps.
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 49.20Lx8.26Wx2.56H
- Size: Compact
Pros
- Perfect kit for beginners
- 88 full-size semi-weighted keys provide exceptional playing experience
- Portable and lightweight, with a durable carrying case
- Multifunctional with various features and functions
- Multiple connectivity options to suit preferences
Cons
- Instructions not in English
- Stand assembly can be difficult
- Controls are not intuitive
- Sustain pedal is small and lacks grip
- Volume does not go very loud
The Longeye Piano Keyboard 88 Keys Compact Digital Piano is an excellent starter package for beginners. It provides a sturdy and compact design, with full-size semi-weighted keys that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano. The included accessories, such as the double-X stand, sustain pedal, and carrying case, offer convenience and portability. The multifunctional features, including split function and record/play, enhance the learning experience. With multiple connectivity options, such as Bluetooth and MIDI, it offers versatility for creative exploration. Despite some drawbacks like non-English instructions and difficult stand assembly, the Longeye Piano Keyboard delivers a great value for aspiring piano enthusiasts.
Overall Score: 9/10
The Alesis Recital Pro is an excellent digital piano for beginners and intermediate players. It features 88 premium full-sized weighted hammer action keys with adjustable touch response to suit your playing style. The keyboard offers 12 voices, including acoustic piano, electric piano, organ, synth, and bass. It also has built-in FX such as chorus, modulation, and reverb, along with two built-in 20W speakers for clear sound. The piano supports sustain pedal input, headphone output, and stereo outputs. It can be powered by either the included power adapter or 6 D cell batteries for portability. The Recital Pro comes with educational features like lesson and record modes, and includes a 3-month premium subscription to Skoove for interactive online piano lessons. Additionally, it offers 60 free virtual lessons from Melodics. It is a versatile and portable digital piano that provides an authentic playing experience.
Key Features
- 88 premium full-sized weighted hammer action keys
- 12 voices with built-in FX: Chorus, Modulation, Reverb
- Two built-in 20W speakers for clear sound
- ¼” sustain pedal input and stereo headphone output
- Power via adapter or 6 D cell batteries for portability
- Standard, split, layer, record, and lesson modes
- 128-note max polyphony with Skoove 3 month subscription
- 60 Free Virtual Lessons from Melodics for skill development
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 5.52Lx51.60Wx13.80H
- Size: Piano
Pros
- Affordable
- 88 fully weighted keys
- Wide range of sounds and features
- Portable
- Built-in metronome
- Headphone jack
- Sustain pedal input
Cons
- Not as realistic as some other digital pianos
- No speakers
- Built-in speakers are not very powerful
The Alesis Recital Pro is a great option for beginners and intermediate players who want an affordable and high-quality digital piano. It offers a realistic playing experience with 88 fully weighted keys and a wide range of sounds. The piano is portable, allowing you to practice and perform anywhere. While it may not have the same level of realism as higher-end models, the Recital Pro still delivers impressive sound and features. It is easy to use and provides educational tools like lesson modes and access to online piano lessons. Overall, the Alesis Recital Pro is a reliable and versatile digital piano that exceeds expectations for its price range.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The Gator GKB Series Slim Line 88-Note Padded Keyboard Gig Bag is a heavy-duty gig bag designed to fit most slim 88-note keyboards. It features rugged nylon construction and adjustable padded secure straps to keep your keyboard protected during transportation. The bag also has reinforced comfort riveted carry handles for easy carrying. With interior dimensions of 53 length x 15 width x 6 height and exterior dimensions of 59 length x 17.5 width x 6.25 height in inches, this bag offers ample space for your keyboard. While it does not have a shoulder strap, the Gator GKB Series Slim Line Gig Bag is durable, well-made, and offers great value for its price.
Key Features
- Fits Most Slim 88 Note Keyboards
- Heavy Duty Rugged Nylon Construction
- Adjustable Padded Secure Straps Secure Keyboard Inside. Handles 2 Webbed Nylon
- Reinforced Comfort Riveted Carry Handles
- Interior dimensions is 53 length x 15 width x 6 height. Exterior dimensions is 59 length x 17.5 width x 6.25 height in inches
- Lockable: No
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 17.50Lx59.00Wx6.25H
- Size: Slim 88-Note
Pros
- Durable
- Spacious
- Well-made construction
- Secure keyboard straps
- Comfortable carry handles
Cons
- No shoulder strap
- Outer pocket can rip
- Velcro straps may wear out over time
The Gator GKB Series Slim Line 88-Note Padded Keyboard Gig Bag is a reliable and well-constructed gig bag for slim 88-note keyboards. It provides ample space and protection for your keyboard during transportation, with durable nylon construction and secure straps. The reinforced carry handles ensure comfortable and secure handling. While it lacks a shoulder strap and the outer pocket may be prone to ripping, these are minor drawbacks compared to the overall quality and value of this gig bag. Whether you’re a gigging musician or just need a reliable bag for transporting your keyboard, the Gator GKB Series Slim Line Gig Bag is a great choice.
Overall Score: 8.3/10
The 88 Key Keyboard Case Soft is a padded piano case designed to protect and transport your keyboard. It features a spacious interior with three exterior zippered storage pockets for music sheet stands, pedals, cables, and more. The case can be carried as a backpack or handbag, with adjustable shoulder straps and sturdy handles. It also includes adjustable security belts to keep your keyboard safe during transport. Made from 600D waterproof and dustproof fabric, this case ensures the protection of your keyboard from collisions, scratches, and wet conditions. It is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for transporting, gigging, and traveling. Available in a stylish Red Stripe color.
Key Features
- Fits most popular model 88-key keyboards
- 3 exterior zippered storage pockets
- Durable adjustable shoulder straps and handles
- Interior adjustable security belts
- Waterproof and scratch-resistant fabric
Specifications
- Color: Red Stripe
- Dimension: 53.50Lx13.80Wx6.80H
- Size: 88 Key-53.5"
Pros
- Provides protection for the keyboard
- Plenty of storage space with external pockets
- Versatile carrying options as a backpack or handbag
- Adjustable security belts for added safety
- Waterproof and dustproof fabric
Cons
- Not as sturdy as it appears in the picture
- Padding is relatively light
The 88 Key Keyboard Case Soft is a reliable and convenient solution for keyboard players who need to transport their instrument. It offers ample protection with its padded design and adjustable security belts. The multiple storage pockets add extra convenience for carrying accessories. The case’s waterproof and dustproof fabric ensures the keyboard remains in optimal condition even during adverse weather conditions. While it may not be as sturdy as a hardshell case, it provides sufficient protection for a reasonable price. Overall, this case is a great choice for musicians looking for a lightweight and portable solution to keep their keyboard safe.
Overall Score: 9/10
The YAMAHA P71 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano is a versatile and compact instrument that provides a quality playing experience. With its 88 fully weighted piano style keys, it simulates the feel of an acoustic piano and offers 10 different voices, including digitally sampled tones from real Yamaha acoustic grand pianos. The dual mode lets you combine two voices for a unique and inspiring playing experience. The slim and stylish design of the P71 makes it suitable for small spaces, and it weighs only 25 pounds, making it easy to transport. With its included power adapter and sustain pedal, this Amazon-exclusive model offers great value. Overall, the YAMAHA P71 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano is a great choice for beginners and more experienced pianists alike.
Key Features
- Amazon exclusive model includes power adapter and sustain pedal
- 88 fully weighted piano style keys simulate the feel of an acoustic piano and provide a quality playing experience
- Contains 10 different voices, including digitally sampled tones from real Yamaha acoustic grand pianos
- Dual mode lets you combine 2 voices together, like piano and strings, for an inspiring new playing experience
- Slim and stylish design with a depth of less than 12 inches, the P71 requires little space and weighs only 25 pounds
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 52.25Lx11.50Wx6.00H
- Size: Full
Pros
- Quality sound and feel
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile with different voices and dual mode
- Includes power adapter and sustain pedal
Cons
- Volume control can be finicky
- Pedal quality could be better
- Not as close to a real piano as expected
The YAMAHA P71 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano is a highly recommended instrument for both beginners and more advanced pianists. It offers a quality playing experience with its fully weighted keys that simulate the feel of an acoustic piano. The 10 different voices, including Yamaha’s acoustic grand piano tones, provide versatility and inspiration for various playing styles. The slim and stylish design makes it perfect for small spaces, and the included power adapter and sustain pedal are valuable inclusions. While there are some minor drawbacks such as volume control and pedal quality, overall, the YAMAHA P71 is a great value digital piano that delivers on sound and performance.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The 88 Key Keyboard Case with Wheels is a convenient and durable solution for musicians on the go. With its large interior dimensions and multiple pockets, it has plenty of space to store your keyboard and accessories. The case is designed with thick padding and adjustable security belts to provide full protection for your instrument. It also features three different carrying options – a soft handle, ergonomic shoulder straps, and high-quality wheels. Made of waterproof and dustproof material, this rolling bag is built to last. Whether you're going to a gig or a practice session, this keyboard case will make transporting your instrument a breeze.
Key Features
- 88-key keyboard bag with wheels for easy portability
- 3 zippered pockets for storing accessories
- Thick padding and adjustable security belts for full protection
- Multiple carrying options – soft handle, shoulder straps, and wheels
- Waterproof, dustproof, and durable construction
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 54.33Lx14.96Wx7.09H
Pros
- Convenient and easy to transport
- Ample storage space for accessories
- Provides full protection for the keyboard
- Multiple carrying options for comfort
- Durable and weather-resistant
Cons
- Limited padding
- Top handle could be better
The 88 Key Keyboard Case with Wheels is a great investment for musicians who are constantly on the move. Its sturdy construction and ample storage space make it ideal for gigging and rehearsals. The multiple carrying options provide flexibility and ease of use, while the waterproof and dustproof material ensures that your keyboard stays safe in any weather condition. While the limited padding may be a downside for some, overall, this keyboard case offers excellent value for its price. Whether you’re a professional musician or a hobbyist, this case will help you transport your keyboard with ease and peace of mind.
Overall Score: 9/10
The AODSK Weighted Piano is a 88-key beginner digital piano designed to provide a realistic playing experience. With its full-size weighted keyboard featuring hammer action and touch sensitivity, it delivers the authentic feel of an acoustic piano. The high-quality piano tone, produced by the 25W*2 high-power speaker system, accurately replicates the sound of a grand piano. It offers a range of additional features including 8 tones, 128 rhythms, and 31 presets. The portable and minimalist design makes it convenient to carry and use. Users can enjoy quiet playing with headphones and utilize the built-in metronome for mastering rhythm. With an unconditional refund guarantee, the AODSK Weighted Piano is a reliable choice for beginners.
Key Features
- Full-size 88-key weighted keyboard with hammer action and touch sensitivity
- High-quality piano tone with 25W*2 high-power speaker system
- Rich additional features: 8 tones, 128 rhythms, 31 presets
- Portable and minimalist design
- After-sales guarantee with unconditional refund
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 52.00Lx11.00Wx5.90H
- Size: S-200 Digital Piano
Pros
- Authentic feel of an acoustic piano
- High-quality sound reproduction
- Quiet playing with headphones
- Built-in metronome for accurate rhythm
- Portable and lightweight design
Cons
- Limited color options
- No included stand for the piano
The AODSK Weighted Piano is a highly recommended choice for beginner pianists. Its authentic feel, high-quality sound, and range of features make it a great instrument to start learning the piano. The portable design adds convenience for users who need to carry and use it in various locations. While it may have limited color options and no included stand, these are minor drawbacks compared to its overall performance. With a 9 out of 10 score, the AODSK Weighted Piano offers excellent value for money and provides a solid foundation for beginners to develop their piano skills.
88 Key Keyboard Buyer's Guide
- 88-key keyboards are one of the most popular choices among musicians and pianists due to their versatility and range. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, finding the perfect 88-key keyboard can be a daunting task. But worry not! We're here to guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision. Let's dive in!
Factors to Consider
- Keyboard Action: The keyboard action refers to the feel and response of the keys. Make sure to try out various options to find the one that suits your playing style. There are three main types:
- *Weighted* keys provide resistance similar to an acoustic piano, making them ideal for classical pianists.
- *Semi-weighted* keys strike a balance between the feel of weighted and unweighted keys, suitable for a wide range of genres.
- *Synth-action* keys are lighter and springier, perfect for fast-paced genres like pop and electronic music.
- Touch Sensitivity: Touch sensitivity determines the volume and tone produced based on your playing intensity. Look for keyboards with adjustable touch sensitivity or multiple sensitivity levels to enhance expressiveness and dynamics in your performance.
- Polyphony: Polyphony refers to the number of notes a keyboard can produce simultaneously. Aim for a minimum of 64-note polyphony to play complex compositions without any notes cutting off prematurely.
- Sound Quality: The quality of sound produced by the keyboard is crucial. Look for keyboards that offer realistic piano sounds, as well as a variety of other instrument sounds such as strings, organs, and synths. Reviews and audio samples can help you gauge the sound quality.
- Connectivity Options: Consider the connectivity options available on the keyboard. USB and MIDI ports allow you to connect to computers and other devices for recording or using music software. Additionally, look for headphone and microphone jacks, audio input/output, and Bluetooth connectivity for added flexibility.
- Built-in Features: Explore the additional functions and features offered by the keyboard. These can include built-in effects, recording capabilities, metronomes, auto-accompaniment styles, and learning tools. Determine which features are important to you and your playing needs.
- Portability: If you plan on taking your keyboard on the go or performing at gigs, consider its size, weight, and portability features. Look for keyboards with sturdy yet lightweight construction, carrying handles, and the option to use battery power.
- Price Range: Set a budget for your keyboard purchase. Keep in mind that more expensive options often offer better key action, sound quality, and additional features, but there are affordable options with great value for money too. Consider your needs, skill level, and long-term aspirations while determining the price range.
- Brand Reputation: Research and consider reputable brands known for their quality and customer support. Established brands often provide better warranties, software updates, and a wider range of accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions about 10 Best 88 Key Keyboard for 2023
Absolutely! 88-key keyboards provide a similar playing experience to acoustic pianos, making them a fantastic choice for beginners who want to develop proper technique and finger strength.
Yes, many 88-key keyboards have MIDI connectivity, allowing you to use them as MIDI controllers for music production software, virtual instruments, and recording.
It depends on your preferences and playing style. Weighted keys replicate the feel of an acoustic piano, which is ideal for classical music. However, if you mostly play genres like pop or electronic music, synth-action or semi-weighted keys may be more suitable.
While both digital pianos and 88-key keyboards offer a full range of keys, digital pianos tend to have more realistic piano sounds, sophisticated key action, and are primarily focused on piano playing. 88-key keyboards, on the other hand, provide a wider range of sounds and features, making them versatile for various musical genres.
Yes, most 88-key keyboards have audio output options, such as line outputs or headphone jacks. You can connect external speakers or amplifiers to enhance the sound quality or stage performance experience.
Not necessarily. While some 88-key keyboards may include a sustain pedal in the package, many require you to purchase it separately. Make sure to check the product details or consider buying a sustain pedal separately if it is important to you.
Yes, an 88-key keyboard can be a great tool for learning to play the piano. However, keep in mind that acoustic pianos offer a different playing experience due to their unique touch and sound projection. If you plan to pursue classical piano extensively, practicing on an acoustic piano whenever possible would be beneficial.
