Weighted keyboards are a top choice for pianists of all skill levels, thanks to their ability to replicate the feel of traditional acoustic pianos while remaining compact and portable. But with so many options available, finding the right one can be overwhelming. This guide answers key questions, explains what makes a great weighted keyboard, and reviews the top 7 best 88-key weighted keyboards to help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Weighted Piano Keyboard?
A weighted keyboard mimics the resistance and touch of acoustic piano keys by integrating heavier, spring-loaded keys, hammer actions, or graded weights. This design gives the player a realistic playing experience, making transitions between digital and acoustic pianos seamless. Weighted keys also help develop proper finger strength and playing techniques, making them essential for serious musicians.
A list of the 7 best weighted keyboards with 88 keys:
- Yamaha P71
- Casio PX 350
- Yamaha DGX 660
- Alesis Recital Pro
- Casio Privia PX 160
- The ONE smart keyboard
- KORG SP 170
After thorough research, we’ve compiled the top 7 best 88-key weighted keyboards that combine quality, features, and affordability. Each product is reviewed for sound quality, design, portability, and value.
Top 7 Best Weighted Keyboards with 88 Keys [Guide & Reviews]
1. Yamaha P71 Digital Action Weighted 88-Key Piano
Best for Beginners and Portability
Key Features:
- Fully weighted 88 keys with Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action.
- 10 unique voices, including Yamaha’s signature grand piano tones.
- Slim, lightweight design (only 25 lbs), ideal for travel.
The Yamaha P71 is a beginner-friendly keyboard that delivers incredible value at an affordable price. Despite its minimalistic design, this digital piano boasts authentic sound sampling and top-notch speakers, ensuring a rich playing experience. The dual-mode feature allows you to combine two voices, like piano and strings, for versatile performance options.
While it lacks advanced features like LCD screens or recording options, its portability and simplicity make it a fan favorite. Ideal for beginners or as a backup keyboard for professionals.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- High-quality sound samples
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited advanced features
- No onboard recording functionality
2. Casio PX350 88 Key Digital Stage Piano
Best for Advanced Features in a Compact Design
Key Features:
- Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II for superior touch response.
- Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator (AiR) sound engine for authentic piano tones.
- 250 instrument tones and 180 rhythms for creative versatility.
The PX-350 stands out due to its cutting-edge sound engine and exceptional key action. Its three-sensor system ensures precise note detection, emulating the dynamics of an acoustic piano. The addition of layering and split features allows for unique sound customization.
The keyboard’s built-in recording capabilities and extensive rhythm options make it perfect for performers and composers alike. Despite its advanced features, it remains relatively compact and lightweight, making it suitable for both stage performances and home use.
Pros:
- Authentic touch and sound
- Advanced recording features
- Versatile tone options
Cons
- Slightly expensive for beginners
- Limited portability
3. Yamaha DGX660 Bundle
Best All-in-One Option with Premium Features
Key Features:
- GHS weighted keys with realistic graded action.
- 192-note polyphony for complex compositions.
- Wireless audio and MIDI compatibility (iOS only).
The Yamaha DGX-660 is a powerhouse digital piano that bridges the gap between acoustic and digital. Its smart acoustic control system automatically balances tones, creating an immersive playing experience. The built-in microphone input adds versatility, allowing you to sing along or record performances.
While its larger size makes it less portable, the DGX-660 is perfect for home use or studio setups. Its robust build and array of features make it a worthwhile investment for serious musicians.
Pros:
- High polyphony and rich sound
- Advanced connectivity options
- Perfect for home use
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky
- Expensive
4. Alesis Recital Pro Digital Piano
Best Budget Option for Beginners
Key Features:
- 88 semi-weighted keys with adjustable touch response.
- 128-note polyphony for enhanced sound clarity.
- Includes a 3-month subscription to Skoove online lessons.
The Alesis Recital Pro is a top choice for beginners seeking affordability without compromising quality. Its semi-weighted keys provide a smooth transition for new pianists learning to use weighted keyboards. The battery-powered option makes it highly portable, ideal for outdoor performances or practice sessions on the go.
Its built-in lesson mode and included Skoove subscription make it perfect for self-learning beginners. While it may lack advanced features, its price-to-performance ratio is unbeatable.
Pros:
- Affordable and portable
- Beginner-friendly lesson tools
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Limited tone variety
- Not fully weighted keys
5. Casio Privia PX-160BK 88-Key Full-Size Digital Piano
Best Value for Money
Key Features:
- Full-sized 88 weighted keys with Tri-Sensor Hammer Action.
- Layering and splitting functions for tonal customization.
- Premium-quality built-in speakers.
The Privia PX-160BK by Casio is an exceptional mid-range keyboard that balances affordability with professional-level features. Its high-quality audio sampling and hammer action keys offer a realistic piano-playing experience. The split and layer functions make it highly versatile for both practice and performance.
While its design is relatively basic, the keyboard excels in durability, reliability, and sound quality.
Pros:
- Great sound quality
- Sturdy and reliable
- High value for money
Cons:
- Limited connectivity options
- Basic aesthetics
Best For: Intermediate players and budget-conscious professionals.
6. The ONE Smart Keyboard Pro
Best for Learning and Teaching
Key Features:
- Fully weighted 88 hammer-action keys.
- Smart LED lights for guided learning.
- Compatible with the ONE Smart Piano app for lessons.
The ONE Smart Keyboard Pro is a game-changer for beginners and aspiring pianists. Its integrated learning features, including LED light guidance, make it incredibly easy for anyone to start playing within minutes. The keyboard also offers video tutorials, sheet music, and piano games via its companion app.
Its solid construction and hammer-action keys provide a realistic feel, while the powerful speakers ensure rich sound quality. A great tool for students and teachers alike.
Pros:
- Innovative learning features
- High-quality sound and build
- Excellent teaching app integration
Cons:
- Requires app for most features
- Limited advanced options for professionals
Best For: Beginners and music teachers.
7. Korg 88-Key Digital Pianos – Home SP170SBK2
Best Minimalist Design with High-Quality Sound
Key Features:
- Natural Weighted Hammer Action (NH) keys.
- 10 high-quality sampled sounds, including grand piano and strings.
- Streamlined, compact design.
he Korg SP-170S combines minimalist design with premium sound quality. Its streamlined controls make it user-friendly, while its weighted keys offer a realistic playing experience. The dual headphone jacks allow for private lessons or practice sessions.
Though it lacks advanced features, its simplicity and focus on core functionality make it a great choice for players seeking quality over quantity.
Pros:
- Simple, intuitive design
- Realistic sound and touch
- Compact and portable
Cons:
- Few built-in features
- No recording or connectivity options
Best For: Minimalists and casual players.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Weighted Keyboard
Finding the perfect weighted keyboard involves assessing several key factors based on your specific needs. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you should look for before purchasing:
1. Key Action
Weighted keyboards offer different levels of touch sensitivity and realism.
- Fully Weighted Keys: Mimic the resistance of acoustic pianos, ideal for classical players or serious pianists.
- Semi-Weighted Keys: Offer a lighter touch but still provide some resistance, good for beginners or casual players.
- Graded Hammer Action: Keys in the lower register feel heavier, while higher keys are lighter—this is closest to an acoustic piano’s feel.
For professional-level performance, opt for fully weighted or graded hammer-action keys.
2. Sound Quality
A good digital keyboard should offer high-quality sound samples, ideally from renowned acoustic pianos like Yamaha or Steinway. Key aspects to check:
- Polyphony Count: A higher polyphony (128+ notes) ensures complex pieces sound clear without note drop-offs.
- Built-in Speakers: High-quality speakers enhance the depth and richness of sound, but if you perform live, you might want external amplifiers.
- Customizable Tones: Look for layering options, instrument libraries, and adjustable EQ settings to expand your sound palette.
3. Build and Portability
- Design and Size: Slim, lightweight designs are best for traveling musicians, while bulkier models suit studios or home use.
- Materials: High-quality materials ensure the keyboard withstands regular use. Models with aluminum or reinforced plastic frames are durable yet lightweight.
4. Features and Connectivity
Modern keyboards often include tech-savvy features that enhance your playing experience:
- Lesson Modes: Helpful for beginners to learn at their own pace.
- Recording Functionality: Ideal for composers or those who like to review their practice sessions.
- Connectivity: USB, MIDI, and Bluetooth support expand possibilities for digital production, app integration, and external devices.
5. Budget and Purpose
- For Beginners: Look for affordable models with lesson tools and semi-weighted keys.
- For Advanced Users: Invest in keyboards with premium features like high polyphony, graded hammer action, and professional sound engines.
- Overall Value: Ensure the keyboard provides a balance of features, build quality, and price.
You might also end up looking for MIDI keyboards, that do not produce any sounds but can be connected to your computer, laptop, or iPad and your software and play through. For more info, and top product reviews, check the best cheap MIDI keyboards and the best MIDI keyboard controllers in the market.
FAQs: Common Questions About Weighted Keyboards
1. What is the difference between weighted and non-weighted keys?
Weighted keys replicate the feel of an acoustic piano by adding resistance, while non-weighted keys feel lighter, similar to organs or synths. Weighted keys are better for developing finger strength and technique.
2. Are weighted keyboards better for beginners?
Yes, weighted keyboards help beginners build proper hand technique, making transitions to acoustic pianos smoother. Semi-weighted keyboards are also a good starting point for casual learners.
3. What is graded hammer action?
Graded hammer action mimics the mechanics of a grand piano, where lower keys are heavier to press, and higher keys are lighter. This provides a more authentic playing experience.
4. How much should I spend on a weighted keyboard?
Beginner keyboards typically cost $200–$500, mid-range models range from $500–$1,000, and professional-grade keyboards often exceed $1,000. Choose based on your skill level and intended use.
5. Can I use a weighted keyboard for music production?
Yes! Many weighted keyboards offer MIDI compatibility, enabling you to use them as a controller for digital audio workstations (DAWs). Look for models with USB or Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration.
6. How portable are 88-key weighted keyboards?
Portability depends on weight and dimensions. Slim models like the Yamaha P71 or Alesis Recital Pro are lightweight and travel-friendly, while stage pianos like the Yamaha DGX-660 are heavier and best suited for stationary setups.
7. Do weighted keyboards need tuning?
No. Unlike acoustic pianos, digital weighted keyboards don’t require tuning, as they rely on pre-recorded sound samples. This makes them low-maintenance and reliable.
8. Can I connect headphones to a weighted keyboard?
Yes, most digital keyboards include headphone jacks, allowing silent practice sessions without disturbing others.
9. What’s the difference between a digital piano and a weighted keyboard?
- Digital Piano: Primarily designed to replicate the sound and feel of a traditional piano with fewer extra features.
- Weighted Keyboard: Typically more versatile, offering features like multiple instrument tones, MIDI integration, and portability.
10. Do weighted keyboards include pedals?
Some models come with a sustain pedal included, while others require you to purchase pedals separately. Triple pedal units can replicate a grand piano’s full pedal functionality.
More keyboard options for producers, pianists, and casual playing:
- The best MIDI keyboard controllers
- Top 10 best digital piano under $1000
- The best digital pianos for beginners
Conclusion
If we take a look at the market, there are a ton of options for digital keyboards. Hence, settling for one that you don’t like shouldn’t be an option. If you look hard enough, you will find the one that suits you best.
All our options above are perfect to practice, learn to play the piano, perform live, or record your set and samples into your computer and DAW. All affordable and relatively portable for a keyboard with 88 weighted keys.
Every keyboard has its ebbs and flows; hence, you will have to make compromises in some features if you want a budget buy. However, if you don’t have a budget to stay in, then the sky is the limit.
Before you go, you may want to take a look at the best music production software, to record, edit, and compose your final piece.
Make sure you go through the buying guide and do your part of research before investing in a digital keyboard.