Beginner Digital Pianos, A Rough Guide

Buying a Beginner Digital Piano can be a daunting process.

Sites like Amazon and EBAY tout countless pages of makes and models, many of which are promoted as ideal starter instruments with features designed to encourage learning and educational development. 

So, what does one look for before adding to cart?

When buying your first Digital Piano it’s important to make sure you do your research, here are a couple of important things to remember.

The Basics,

All Piano teachers today will recommend that a beginner Pianist learn on an Instrument that has a full 88 note keyboard. Whilst there are many 61/76 note models on the market, these are mostly unsuitable due to their small scale and will be of limited use within 6 – 12 months of learning.   
It’s also very important to make sure that your Piano has a fully weighted keyboard mechanism. A weighted mechanism provides touch resistance ensuring that the action feels similar to that of an Acoustic Piano. As most music lessons are still taught on traditional Pianos, this allows for a much more realistic playing experience. 

Although not necessary immediately, it’s also very important to make sure that the instrument has a sustain pedal for futureproofing (A 3 pedal configuration is preferable but not entirely necessary).

You don’t have to spend much (but you want to spend enough),  
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Digital Pianos are more affordable today than ever. Instruments like the Yamaha P45 have radically changed the market and now provide quality tone and touch in a Digital Piano for a price under $600AUD.  
Whilst there are many of models below this price point. Often, there’s a lot of compromise to be found regarding quality and functionality. 
If budget is limited perhaps a rental program or second hand option is a better choice. 

Models like the Yamaha P-45 have revolutionised the Industry by providing a quality 88 note digital piano for under $600 AUD.

Keep it simple (stupid),
As suggested above, there are many Instruments available that come with an extensive range of features including simulated tones, rhythms or accompaniments.
Whilst these can be handy for the pro musician, they’re often well beyond the capabilities of what is useful for the average beginner and can be a distraction to the learning process. 
Ultimately, the best starter instruments have minimal feature outside of a quality Piano tone and touch. For early learning, less is more. 

Will this instrument suit my needs?
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It pays to keep a long-term approach in mind when buying your first Digital Piano.
These are instruments that are designed with an average lifespan of 12 – 15 years. If you start out with a limited budget it’s important to not sell yourself short when it comes to making a purchasing decision. A modest purchase for a beginner pianist may prove to be of limited use if you begin to progress rapidly. 

Questions to ask when buying, 

Does this Instrument have a fully weighted key mechanism?
Does it have a full length (88 note) keyboard?
Does this model have 1 or 3 pedal assembly?
Will this Instrument suit my needs in 5/10 years?
Can this Instrument record?
Does it have a headphone jack?
Does it come with a plinth or brace stand?
Is it easy to operate? Are there any features that will distract?


How was your experience buying a beginner Digital Pianos? Any questions or observations feel free to leave a comment below.