Piano or keyboard: which is right for a beginner?

Acoustic piano, digital piano or keyboard? What each one offers a beginner, and what to ask before you buy.

By Piedbells Music

Many families ask this before the first lesson. There are three main choices, and each has its place. Here is what each one offers a beginner.

Acoustic piano

An acoustic piano makes its sound with hammers striking strings.

For: the real touch and tone of the instrument, and the full range of keys.
Think about: it needs space against a wall, tuning from time to time, and it cannot be played with headphones.

Digital piano

A digital piano is designed to feel and sound like a piano.

For: usually a full set of keys, often weighted so they feel like a piano’s; no tuning; headphones for quiet practice.
Think about: it needs power and a fixed place to stand. Quality varies, so try the keys if you can.

Keyboard

A keyboard is lighter and more portable.

For: easy to move and store, and often a lower-cost way to begin.
Think about: many keyboards have fewer keys and lighter keys than a piano. As a student progresses, pieces may need more keys and more control over loud and soft playing.

Questions to ask before you buy

How many keys does it have? A piano has 88.
Are the keys touch-sensitive? Playing harder should sound louder; playing gently should sound softer.
Are the keys weighted? Weighted keys build finger strength and control.
Is there a sustain pedal? It lets notes ring on, and it is used in many pieces.
Will you take graded exams? If so, ask your tutor about the instrument you will need.

Our advice

Every learner and every home is different. If you are buying your first instrument, talk to us before you buy: your tutor will advise on what suits a beginner, and on what will still suit them as they progress.

Learning piano with Piedbells

Our live one-to-one piano lessons cover technique, reading music, playing by ear and theory, for children and adults from Beginner to Grade 8.