A strong student digital piano combines a full-size keyboard with a touch and response that support developing piano technique, making an 88-key weighted model a good starting point for many learners. Our picks range from compact 61-key keyboards with beginner accessories to full-size instruments with hammer action, built-in speakers, and lesson-friendly features such as duet mode. The Yamaha P71 leads for its 88 fully weighted keys, touch-sensitive response, and straightforward controls.
Other choices suit different needs: the Roland FP-10 emphasizes an acoustic-like key feel, while the Casio CDP-S160 adds portability and duet mode. Before choosing, consider whether a student needs all 88 keys, how much space the instrument can occupy, and whether a stand, bench, or headphones are included.
Those differences can shape both practice and setup.
The Yamaha P71 is the best overall choice because it pairs 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys with Yamaha piano voices and simple one-button operation. That combination fits students who want an acoustic-piano-like response and a focused instrument for home practice. It includes a sustain pedal and power supply, though not a stand or bench.
Students who need a more compact instrument, extra lesson features, or a complete accessory bundle may prefer another pick in this list.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys support piano technique, while 10 voices and simple one-button operation keep home practice focused.
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Most Acoustic-LikeThe 88-note keyboard has an expressive touch and ivory feel, and the SuperNATURAL sound engine provides an acoustic-piano-style practice option.
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Best Simple SetupThis 88-key weighted model includes a music rest, sustain foot switch, and power adapter, with 10 voices and a compact, lightweight design.
View on Amazon- Best Lesson Feature Casio CDP-S160
- Most Tones Donner DEP-20
Compare the Student Piano Picks
| # | Product | Dimensions | Weight | Warranty Description | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. Yamaha P71Best Overall | 52.25 x 11.5 x 6 in | 25 lb | 1 year manufacturer warranty yamaha… | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Roland FP-10Most Acoustic-Like | 15.94 x 11.1 x 54.45 in | 27 lb | See manufacturer's website for details. | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Yamaha P45Best Simple Setup | 52.25 x 11.5 x 6 in | 11.5 kg | 1 year manufacturer warranty yamaha… | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Casio CDP-S160Best Lesson Feature | 52.05 x 9.13 x 3.9 in | 23.2 lb | 1 year manufacturer. | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. Donner DEP-20Most Tones | 52.17 x 11.61 x 7.6 in | 11.6 kg | 12 month warranty. | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. AODSK UPB83SFurniture-style piano lessons | 13.78 x 53.94 x 29.13 in | — | Within 2 years from the date of purchase. | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. Alesis Recital PlayComplete beginner keyboard bundle | 49.92 x 10.08 x 2.88 in | 5.5 kg | 1 year manufacturer. | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Zilvok 88051Accessory-ready beginner practice | — | — | 1 | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. Roland GO-88PXPortable full-size bundle | 50.45 x 10.85 x 3.28 in | 12.7 lb | — | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Alesis Melody 61 MK4Compact first keyboard setup | 9.12 x 36 x 2.88 in | 6.6 lb | 1 year manufacturer. | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Digital Pianos For Students

#1 · Best Overall
1. Yamaha P71
- Dimensions: 52.25 x 11.5 x 6 in
- Weight: 25 lb
- Warranty Description: 1 year manufacturer warranty yamaha…
Best for: Focused home piano lessons.
Why it ranks #1: Its 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys support piano technique, while 10 voices and simple one-button operation keep home practice focused.
Fully weighted action gives the Yamaha P71 an acoustic-piano-style playing feel, helping students practice with touch-sensitive dynamics from the start. Its streamlined one-button operation keeps controls straightforward, and the included sustain pedal and power supply cover two essentials for setting up a home practice routine without shopping for those components separately.
The 88 weighted, touch-sensitive keys respond to playing dynamics, supporting practice in which students work on expressive changes rather than simply pressing notes. Ten voices include Yamaha grand piano sound, while Dual Mode blends sounds for a different practice texture. One-button operation keeps everyday control simple, and the included sustain pedal adds pedal practice to the setup. At 25 pounds and 52.25 inches wide, it is a substantial full-size instrument suited to a home location rather than frequent carrying.
- 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys
- Ten voices, including Yamaha grand piano
- Dual Mode blends sounds
- Sustain pedal and power supply included
- At 25 pounds and over 52 inches wide, it is less convenient for frequent transport.
Skip it if you need a lighter keyboard to carry often; the Roland GO-88PX weighs 12.7 pounds.
Students practicing at home who want weighted action, expressive key response, and simple controls are the P71’s clearest audience. Its full-size footprint and 25-pound weight make a settled practice spot a better fit than regular travel.
Full product details
| Brand | YAMAHA |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Included sustain pedal, Power Supply |
| Item Dimensions | 52.25 x 11.5 x 6 inches |
| Dimensions | 11.5"D x 52.25"W x 6"H |
| Item Weight | 25 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Yamaha PAC |
| Part Number | P71B |
| Model | P71 |
| Model Number | P71B |
| Size | Full |
| Special Feature | Built-In Speaker, Duo Mode, Hammer Action, Multiple Voices, Weighted Keys |
| Special Features | Built-In Speaker, Duo Mode, Hammer Action, Multiple Voices, Weighted Keys |
| Style | P71 |
| Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer warranty yamaha corporation of america (yamaha) is proud of the experience and craftsmanship that goes into every product we represent. Yamaha sells its products through a network of authorized yamaha retailers. Only these authorized retailers are equipped with sales and service |
Listed on Amazon as: YAMAHA P71 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano with Sustain Pedal and Power Supply (Amazon-Exclusive)
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#2 · Most Acoustic-Like
2. Roland FP-10
- Dimensions: 15.94 x 11.1 x 54.45 in
- Weight: 27 lb
- Warranty Description: See manufacturer's website for details.
Best for: Quiet acoustic-feel practice.
Why it ranks #2: The 88-note keyboard has an expressive touch and ivory feel, and the SuperNATURAL sound engine provides an acoustic-piano-style practice option.
Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine and 88-note acoustic-feel keyboard make the FP-10 a focused choice for students seeking responsive piano sound and touch. Its ivory-feel keys support a realistic playing experience, while silent-practice capability and a headphone jack let learners practice with headphones when they need a quieter listening setup.
The SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine provides responsive piano tone, paired with 88 keys that have expressive touch and an ivory feel. That combination supports practice focused on piano sound and playing dynamics rather than a large collection of instrument voices. Silent-practice capability and the headphone jack offer a headphone-based option for quieter sessions. At 27 pounds, the FP-10 is a compact digital piano by category, but its weight is worth considering if it must be moved often.
- SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine
- 88-note expressive acoustic-feel keyboard
- Ivory-feel keys
- Silent-practice capability and headphone jack
- At 27 pounds, it is less convenient to carry frequently than lighter portable keyboards.
Skip it if you need a full accessory bundle with a bench and stand; the Roland GO-88PX bundle includes both.
The FP-10 fits students prioritizing acoustic-style touch, piano sound, and headphone-based quiet practice. Consider its 27-pound weight if the keyboard must be moved regularly; the supplied details emphasize playing features rather than a bundled stand or bench.
Full product details
| Brand | Roland |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Item Dimensions | 15.94 x 11.1 x 54.45 inches |
| Dimensions | 11.1"D x 54.45"W x 15.94"H |
| Item Weight | 27 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Roland |
| Part Number | FP-10-BK |
| Model | Roland FP-10 – Compact 88-Note Digital Piano with SuperNATURAL Piano Tones and Authentic Acoustic Feel Keyboard |
| Model Number | FP-10 |
| Size | FP-10 |
| Special Feature | Headphone Jack |
| Special Features | Headphone Jack |
| Style | FP-10 |
| Warranty Description | See manufacturer's website for details. |
Listed on Amazon as: Roland FP-10 Compact 88-Note Digital Piano
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#3 · Best Simple Setup
3. Yamaha P45
- Dimensions: 52.25 x 11.5 x 6 in
- Weight: 11.5 kg
- Warranty Description: 1 year manufacturer warranty yamaha…
Best for: Portable weighted-key practice.
Why it ranks #3: This 88-key weighted model includes a music rest, sustain foot switch, and power adapter, with 10 voices and a compact, lightweight design.
The Yamaha P45 pairs 88 weighted keys with a compact, lightweight design, giving piano students a full-size keyboard feel in a more manageable instrument. Ten voices, built-in speakers, and simple one-button operation keep practice self-contained, while the included music rest, sustain foot switch, and AC adaptor provide practical essentials for getting started.
Weighted, touch-sensitive keys let students work on dynamics across a full 88-note range, while ten voices—including Yamaha grand piano—provide options for practicing different sounds. One-button operation avoids a complicated control routine, and the built-in speakers support playing without connecting external audio equipment. The included music rest holds lesson material, and the sustain foot switch supports pedal technique. Yamaha describes the P45 as compact and lightweight, making it easier to manage than a furniture-style piano setup.
- 88 weighted keys with touch sensitivity
- Ten voices, including Yamaha grand piano
- Built-in speakers and one-button operation
- Music rest, foot switch, and AC adaptor included
- The included sound selection is limited to 10 voices.
Skip it if you want hundreds of built-in tones for varied exploration; the Donner DEP-20 offers 238 tones.
The P45 suits a student seeking a straightforward full-size weighted keyboard for lessons and home practice, with a music rest and sustain switch included. Its 10-voice selection is a better fit for piano-focused study than sound-library exploration.
Full product details
| Brand | YAMAHA |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | AC adaptor, Footswitch, Music Rest, Owner's Manual |
| Item Dimensions | 52.25 x 11.5 x 6 inches |
| Dimensions | 11.61"D x 52.2"W x 6.06"H |
| Item Weight | 11.5 kg |
| Manufacturer | Yamaha PAC |
| Part Number | YAM P45B |
| Model | P45 |
| Model Number | P45B |
| Size | 52.25 inches (L) x 11.5 inches (W) x 6 inches (H) |
| Special Feature | Built-In Speaker, Hammer Action, Headphone Jack, Split Mode |
| Special Features | Built-In Speaker, Hammer Action, Headphone Jack, Split Mode |
| Style | P45 |
| Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer warranty yamaha corporation of america (yamaha) is proud of the experience and craftsmanship that goes into every product we represent. Yamaha sells its products through a network of authorized yamaha retailers. Only these authorized retailers are equipped with sales and service |
Listed on Amazon as: Yamaha 88-Key Weighted Portable Digital Piano Keyboard with Music Rest, Sustain Foot Switch, Built-in Speakers, USB Connectivity, Black (P45B)
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#4 · Best Lesson Feature
4. Casio CDP-S160
- Dimensions: 52.05 x 9.13 x 3.9 in
- Weight: 23.2 lb
- Warranty Description: 1 year manufacturer.
Best for: Portable duet lesson piano.
Why it ranks #4: Scaled hammer-action keys, duet mode, and a 23.2-pound slim body suit lessons where a student needs realistic touch and easy repositioning.
Duet mode makes the Casio CDP-S160 especially relevant to students sharing a keyboard with a teacher or practice partner. Its 88 scaled hammer-action keys and simulated ivory-and-ebony surfaces support a more piano-like touch, while a slim 23.2-pound body and battery operation offer flexibility for rooms without a fixed piano location.
Scaled hammer-action keys provide weighted piano touch, and textured simulated ivory-and-ebony surfaces are intended to add grip while students practice. Duet mode supports lessons or performances shared at the keyboard, making it useful when student and teacher need to play together. The slim case measures 52.05 inches wide and 3.9 inches deep, and the instrument can run on six AA batteries or the included adapter. USB-MIDI and built-in speakers add connection and standalone playing options.
- 88 scaled hammer-action keys with textured surfaces
- Duet mode for lessons and performances
- Runs on six AA batteries or included adapter
- USB-MIDI and built-in speakers
- Battery operation requires six AA batteries, which are not listed among the included components.
Skip it if you want a furniture-style setup with a three-pedal unit; the AODSK UPB83S includes a stand and three pedals.
Students sharing lessons, needing Duet mode, or moving between practice spaces can make good use of the CDP-S160’s features. Its slim weighted-key format is portable, while a fixed three-pedal furniture setup is a different use case.
Full product details
| Brand | Casio |
|---|---|
| Color | Red |
| Included Components | Power adapter |
| Item Dimensions | 52.05 x 9.13 x 3.9 inches |
| Dimensions | 9.13"D x 52.05"W x 3.9"H |
| Item Weight | 23.2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Casio |
| Part Number | CDP-160RD |
| Model | CDP S160 |
| Model Number | CDP-S160RD |
| Size | 88-Key |
| Special Feature | Weighted Keys |
| Special Features | Weighted Keys |
| Style | Digital Pianos-Home |
| Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer. |

#5 · Most Tones
5. Donner DEP-20
- Dimensions: 52.17 x 11.61 x 7.6 in
- Weight: 11.6 kg
- Warranty Description: 12 month warranty.
Best for: Weighted-key lesson practice.
Why it ranks #5: Its 88 full-size hammer-action keys offer adjustable touch response, while 238 tones and 128-note polyphony provide options beyond piano practice.
Adjustable-touch, full-weighted hammer-action keys give the Donner DEP-20 a clear fit for students seeking a more piano-like response across 88 keys. Its 238 tones and 128-note polyphony support varied playing, while the included sustain pedal, sheet-music stand, and power adapter cover basic lesson and practice needs.
The 88 full-sized hammer-action keys provide weighted response, and adjustable touch lets players choose a feel that suits their playing style. A library of 238 tones—including instruments such as ukulele, drums, and bass—offers options for musical exploration; 128-note polyphony supports substantial note overlap. The included sheet-music stand keeps lesson material in view, while the sustain pedal adds pedal practice. At 11.6 kilograms, it is described as portable, though its full-size format still needs a suitable playing surface.
- 88 full-size, full-weighted hammer-action keys
- Adjustable touch response
- 238 tones and 128-note polyphony
- Sustain pedal, music stand, and power adapter included
- The supplied bundle does not list a stand or bench.
Skip it if you want a bench and adjustable-height stand included; the Alesis Melody 61 MK4 bundle supplies both.
The DEP-20 suits students who want adjustable weighted action, a broad tone selection, and a sustain pedal for lessons. Plan for a separate playing stand or bench, since neither is listed among its included components.
Full product details
| Brand | Donner |
|---|---|
| Color | Dull Black |
| Included Components | Digital Piano, Sustain Pedal, Sheet Music Stand, Power Adapter, Instruction Manual |
| Item Dimensions | 52.17 x 11.61 x 7.6 inches |
| Dimensions | 9.25"D x 57"W x 13.38"H |
| Item Weight | 11.6 kg |
| Manufacturer | Donner |
| Part Number | DDP-20 |
| Model | Beginner Digital Piano 88 Key Full Size |
| Model Number | EC3042 |
| Size | Weighted Piano Only |
| Special Feature | Portable |
| Special Features | Portable |
| Style | DEP-20 Weighted Digital Piano |
| Warranty Description | 12 month warranty. |
Listed on Amazon as: Donner DEP-20 Beginner Digital Piano 88 Key Full Size Weighted Keyboard, Portable Electric Piano with Sustain Pedal, Power Supply
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#6
6. AODSK UPB83S
- Dimensions: 13.78 x 53.94 x 29.13 in
- Warranty Description: Within 2 years from the date of purchase.
Best for: Furniture-style piano lessons.
Why it ranks #6: Full-weighted keys, a furniture stand, and three pedals offer a substantial home setup, though its listed weight is 71.2 pounds.
A three-pedal system sets the AODSK UPB83S apart for students learning soft, sustain, and sostenuto pedal techniques at one instrument. Its 88 fully weighted hammer-action keys provide a piano-like response, while the furniture stand and wooden case create a dedicated setup for home practice rather than a lightweight travel keyboard.
Full-sized hammer-action keys offer a weighted playing experience for students working toward familiar piano technique. The metal soft, sustain, and sostenuto pedals extend practice beyond sustain alone, supporting lessons that use all three functions. A furniture stand and wooden case establish a permanent practice station, and the listed 71.2-pound weight and 53.9-inch width mean placement should be planned before assembly. Duo Mode and a headphone jack add options for shared practice and quieter listening.
- 88 full-sized weighted hammer-action keys
- Metal soft, sustain, and sostenuto pedals
- Furniture stand and wooden case included
- Duo Mode and headphone jack
- At 71.2 pounds, it is a heavy choice for frequent moves between rooms.
Skip it if you need a keyboard to carry between practice locations; the Roland GO-88PX weighs 12.7 pounds.
A student with a dedicated home practice area who wants three-pedal technique and weighted keys is the right match. Its substantial 71.2-pound furniture-style setup makes portability and frequent room changes the key boundary.
Full product details
| Brand | AODSK |
|---|---|
| Color | black |
| Included Components | Furniture Stand, Triple Pedals |
| Item Dimensions | 13.78 x 53.94 x 29.13 inches |
| Dimensions | 13.78"D x 53.94"W x 29.13"H |
| Manufacturer | huanqiuyueqi(tianjin)youxiangongsi |
| Part Number | UPB83S |
| Model | UPB83S |
| Model Number | UPB83S |
| Size | 53.9inch*29inch*13.8inch |
| Special Feature | Duo Mode, Hammer Action, Headphone Jack, Weighted Keys |
| Special Features | Duo Mode, Hammer Action, Headphone Jack, Weighted Keys |
| Style | Without Key Covers |
| Warranty Description | Within 2 years from the date of purchase. |
Listed on Amazon as: AODSK Weighted keyboard 88-Key Digital Piano with Speakers, Stand & Pedals
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#7
7. Alesis Recital Play
- Dimensions: 49.92 x 10.08 x 2.88 in
- Weight: 5.5 kg
- Warranty Description: 1 year manufacturer.
Best for: Complete beginner keyboard bundle.
Why it ranks #7: The 88 full-size touch-sensitive keys come with a stand, sustain pedal, headphones, carrying case, and sheet music or tablet stand.
The Alesis Recital Play combines 88 full-size touch-sensitive keys with a bundle of practice accessories, helping beginners start with a stand, sustain pedal, headphones, case, and sheet-music or tablet stand. Its 480 sounds add room to explore beyond piano, while built-in speakers support playing without a separate speaker setup.
Full-size, touch-sensitive keys give students a broad keyboard for developing finger strength and responding to playing dynamics. The 480-sound library and adjustable reverb FX offer variety for practice, while the built-in speakers keep everyday playing self-contained. Included headphones enable private listening, and the carrying case supports transport; the sheet-music or tablet stand helps keep lesson material visible. A keyboard stand, sustain pedal, and power supply round out the bundle, reducing the number of separate setup items to gather.
- 88 full-size touch-sensitive keys
- 480 sounds with adjustable reverb FX
- Built-in speakers and headphones included
- Stand, sustain pedal, case, and music/tablet stand included
- The listed keys are touch-sensitive, not described as weighted action.
Skip it if you require weighted keys for piano technique; the Yamaha P45 has 88 weighted keys.
A new student wanting a broad sound selection and bundled practice accessories will appreciate the Recital Play’s all-in-one approach. It is a better match for touch-sensitive key practice than for students specifically seeking weighted action.
Full product details
| Brand | Alesis |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Keyboard Stand, Sustain Pedal, Headphones, Carrying Case, Sheet Music/Tablet Stand, Power Supply |
| Item Dimensions | 49.92 x 10.08 x 2.88 inches |
| Dimensions | 10.08"D x 49.92"W x 2.88"H |
| Item Weight | 5.5 kg |
| Manufacturer | inMusic Brands Inc. |
| Part Number | RECITALPLAY |
| Model | RECITALPLAY |
| Model Number | RECITALPLAY |
| Size | 88 keys + accessories |
| Special Feature | Built-In Speaker, Digital Display, Headphone Jack, Lightweight, Portable, Touch-Sensitive Keys |
| Special Features | Built-In Speaker, Digital Display, Headphone Jack, Lightweight, Portable, Touch-Sensitive Keys |
| Style | Recital Play w/ Accessories |
| Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer. |
Listed on Amazon as: Alesis Recital Play 88-Key Piano Keyboard Bundle
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #8: The 88 semi-weighted keys suit beginners seeking a full-size layout, and 1,000 timbres, rhythms, and 150 demo songs add variety.
Semi-weighted action gives this 88-key Zilvok a lighter touch than full-weighted keys, helping new players explore piano technique with less finger resistance. Its supplied sustain pedal, stand, carrying case, headphones, and power supply make it a ready-to-assemble practice setup, while USB-MIDI compatibility supports connection to compatible music equipment.
The 88 semi-weighted keys balance a piano-like response with reduced playing force, which may suit beginners still developing finger control. A library of 1,000 timbres, 1,000 rhythms, and 150 demo songs offers varied material for exploring sounds and practice ideas, and dual keyboard function adds another playing arrangement. The included stand and sustain pedal support a dedicated practice station; the carrying case helps move the keyboard, while headphones allow listening without relying on its built-in speaker.
- 88 semi-weighted keys with touch response
- Includes sustain pedal and stand
- Carrying case and headphones included
- USB-MIDI compatibility
- Semi-weighted keys do not provide the full-weighted action of an acoustic-style piano keyboard.
Skip it if you need full-weighted hammer action for piano technique; the Yamaha P71 provides weighted action.
A beginner who wants an 88-key practice setup with accessories and a broad sound library will find a flexible starting point here. Choose it for lighter semi-weighted response, not full-weighted piano action.
Full product details
| Brand | Zilvok |
|---|---|
| Color | White |
| Manufacturer | Zilvok |
| Part Number | P8 |
| Model Number | 88051 |
| Special Feature | Built-In Speaker |
| Special Features | Built-In Speaker |
| Warranty Description | 1 |

#9
9. Roland GO-88PX
- Dimensions: 50.45 x 10.85 x 3.28 in
- Weight: 12.7 lb
Best for: Portable full-size bundle.
Why it ranks #9: It offers 88 full-size keys and weighs 12.7 pounds, with a stand, bench, sustain pedal, and instructional materials in the listed bundle.
At 12.7 pounds, the Roland GO-88PX combines an 88-note full-size keyboard with portability that supports practice at home or on the move. Built-in stereo speakers provide onboard sound, and this bundle adds an adjustable stand, bench, sustain pedal, instructional book, and DVD to help students assemble a lesson-ready setup.
Full-size keys cover the 88-note range for students working across piano repertoire, while the lightweight body makes carrying the keyboard more manageable. Built-in stereo speakers support practice without a separate speaker system, and the listed headphone jack provides another listening option. The adjustable stand and bench create a seated playing station, while the sustain pedal supports pedal practice. An instructional book and DVD add learning materials, though the supplied details do not specify weighted action, so students should not assume it.
- 88 full-size keys
- 12.7-pound lightweight portable design
- Built-in stereo speakers and headphone jack
- Stand, bench, sustain pedal, book, and DVD included
- The supplied details do not specify weighted key action.
Skip it if you require explicitly weighted keys; the Yamaha P71 specifies fully weighted action.
A student seeking an easy-to-carry 88-key instrument with a stand, bench, and lesson materials gets a practical bundle here. Since weighted action is not specified in the supplied details, prioritize another option if that is essential.
Full product details
| Brand | Roland |
|---|---|
| Color | GO-88PX |
| Included Components | Adjustable Stand, Bench, Sustain Pedal, Instructional Book, Instructional DVD, Polishing Cloth |
| Item Dimensions | 50.45 x 10.85 x 3.28 inches |
| Dimensions | 50.45"D x 10.85"W x 3.28"H |
| Item Weight | 12.7 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Roland |
| Part Number | AUS-GO-88PX-COMBO-DLX |
| Model | GO-88PX 88-Key Digital Piano |
| Model Number | GO-88PX |
| Size | Bundle w/ Adjustable Stand |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Digital Effects, Headphone Jack, Portable, Recording, Tempo Control, Touch-Sensitive Keys, Weighted Keys See more |
| Special Features | Digital Display, Digital Effects, Headphone Jack, Portable, Recording, Tempo Control, Touch-Sensitive Keys, Weighted Keys |
| Style | Modern |
Listed on Amazon as: Roland GO-88PX 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle with Adjustable Stand, Bench, Sustain Pedal, Instructional Book, Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, and Polishing Cloth
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#10
10. Alesis Melody 61 MK4
- Dimensions: 9.12 x 36 x 2.88 in
- Weight: 6.6 lb
- Warranty Description: 1 year manufacturer.
Best for: Compact first keyboard setup.
Why it ranks #10: Its 61 compact keys and included stand, bench, and headphones suit entry-level exploration, but the shorter keyboard is less piano-like for lessons.
The Alesis Melody 61 MK4 uses a compact 61-key format, giving new students a smaller keyboard to manage while learning finger strength and basic playing. Its 300 sounds, 300 accompaniment rhythms, and 30 demo songs offer varied practice material, and the included adjustable stand, bench, headphones, and sheet-music stand provide a starter setup.
A 61-key layout keeps the instrument compact at 36 inches wide and 6.6 pounds, making it easier to move or store than a full-size piano keyboard. Its 300 sounds can be layered or split, while sustain and vibrato effects add options for shaping practice. Three hundred accompaniment rhythms with auto-chord functions and 30 demo songs provide material for guided exploration. The adjustable-height stand and bench support a seated practice position, and included headphones allow private listening.
- Compact 61-key layout weighs 6.6 pounds
- 300 sounds with layer and split options
- 300 rhythms with auto-chord and 30 demo songs
- Adjustable stand, bench, headphones, and music stand included
- Its 61 keys do not provide the full 88-key range for piano repertoire.
Skip it if you need all 88 keys for full-range repertoire; the Alesis Recital Play has 88 full-size keys.
A beginner who values a lightweight, compact keyboard and bundled bench and stand has a practical match in the Melody 61 MK4. Its 61-key range is the important limitation for students progressing to full-range piano pieces.
Full product details
| Brand | Alesis |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Included Components | Keyboard stand with adjustable height, Keyboard bench, Sheet music/tablet stand, Headphones, Power adapter |
| Item Dimensions | 9.12 x 36 x 2.88 inches |
| Dimensions | 9.12"D x 36"W x 2.88"H |
| Item Weight | 6.6 pounds |
| Manufacturer | inMusic Brands Inc. |
| Part Number | MELODY61MK4 |
| Model | MELODY61MK4 |
| Model Number | MELODY61MK4 |
| Size | Compact |
| Special Feature | Built-In Speaker, Compact, Headphone Jack, Lightweight, Portable |
| Special Features | Built-In Speaker, Compact, Headphone Jack, Lightweight, Portable |
| Style | 61 Keys with Accessories |
| Warranty Description | 1 year manufacturer. |
Listed on Amazon as: Alesis Melody 61 MK4 61-Key Piano Keyboard Bundle
View on AmazonAvoid outgrowing a 61-key starter keyboard
A 61-key keyboard can be convenient for first steps, but it may limit practice as lessons introduce music that uses a wider range. The Alesis Melody 61 MK4 has 61 compact keys, while the Alesis Recital Play, despite its beginner focus, provides 88 full-size touch-sensitive keys. A student who is following a piano curriculum or expects to continue should consider the full-size options first; choosing fewer keys for compactness can mean needing a second instrument later.
Also distinguish key count from key action: 88 keys alone do not establish a weighted feel. The Zilvok has 88 semi-weighted keys, while the Yamaha P71 specifies fully weighted action.
Check what the teacher expects before choosing, especially if lessons use an acoustic piano. The smaller layout can still suit casual exploration or a tight space, but it is a deliberate compromise rather than a direct substitute for a full-size piano keyboard.
How to Choose a Student Digital Piano
Key count and action
Look first for the number of keys and whether the action is weighted, semi-weighted, or not specified. Most options here have 88 keys; the Alesis Melody 61 MK4 has 61 compact keys, and the Zilvok 88051 uses semi-weighted keys. The Yamaha P71 and P45 specify weighted action, while the Roland FP-10 and Donner DEP-20 describe acoustic-like or hammer-action keys.
For students taking conventional piano lessons or building technique, an 88-key weighted model is the closer match to an acoustic keyboard. A 61-key model favours a learner prioritizing a smaller instrument, while semi-weighted keys may suit a beginner who wants full range without the firmer action.
Space, weight, and portability
Match the instrument’s footprint and weight to where the student will practice and whether it must move. Listed weights range from 5.5 kg for the Alesis Recital Play and 12.7 pounds for the Roland GO-88PX to 71.2 pounds for the AODSK UPB83S. The Casio CDP-S160 weighs 23.2 pounds and has a slim 52.05-inch width; the AODSK is a larger furniture-style setup with a stand.
A learner who shares rooms or carries a keyboard should favour a lighter portable model, but should also plan for a stable surface. A fixed home practice space can accommodate a heavier instrument and its integrated stand more easily.
Included practice accessories
Check the included items against the student’s lesson setup rather than assuming every keyboard is ready to play in the same way. The Yamaha P71 includes a sustain pedal and power supply, and the Yamaha P45 adds a music rest. The Alesis Recital Play bundle includes a stand, pedal, headphones, carrying case, and sheet music or tablet stand; the Roland GO-88PX bundle includes a stand, bench, pedal, and instructional materials.
The AODSK includes a furniture stand and triple pedals. A learner who already has a stand or bench may prefer a simpler package, while a first-time student without accessories may find a bundle more convenient.
Confirm whether the particular student needs headphones or a bench before deciding.
Which Digital Piano Should a Student Choose?
For most students who want a full-size piano feel and simple practice controls, choose the Yamaha P71: its 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys make it the strongest all-around fit. If realistic key feel is the priority, consider the Roland FP-10; for an included music rest and straightforward weighted-key setup, the Yamaha P45 is a practical alternative. Choose the Casio CDP-S160 when duet mode and a slim, portable design matter.
Students needing a stand, bench, and headphones in one package should look at the Alesis Recital Play, while the AODSK UPB83S is suited to a permanent space and its three-pedal setup. The Alesis Melody 61 MK4 is best reserved for a beginner who values a compact 61-key starter keyboard over a full piano range.
Related Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a beginner student start on 61 keys or a full 88-key keyboard?
Choose based on the student’s space and learning priorities. A 61-key keyboard can suit a beginner who values a compact starter instrument, while an 88-key model provides a full piano range. This roundup’s verdict favors 88 keys for a piano-like practice setup and reserves the 61-key option for students who prioritize compactness.
Do digital piano students need weighted keys for lessons?
Weighted keys are a strong choice for students seeking an acoustic-piano-like response. The Yamaha P71 is the overall pick because its 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys suit focused home practice. If key feel is the priority, the Roland FP-10 is another option; the right fit depends on what the student values most.
What accessories should I have ready before starting piano lessons?
Have the accessories required for the chosen setup ready, especially a sustain pedal and power supply if they are not included. A stand and bench may also be needed; the Yamaha P71 includes a pedal and power supply, but not those items. Some bundles list a stand, bench, headphones, or instructional materials.
How can I tell whether a digital piano will fit my practice space?
Check the product title and the roundup’s guidance for portability and setup needs. The Casio CDP-S160 is described as slim and portable, while the AODSK UPB83S is suited to a permanent space and includes a stand-and-pedals setup. Consider where the instrument will stay and what equipment you need around it.
Should I choose a piano bundle or buy accessories separately?
Choose a bundle when its listed accessories match what you need; otherwise, focus on the instrument and check what is included. The Alesis Recital Play bundle is suggested for students seeking a stand, bench, and headphones together. The Yamaha P71 includes a sustain pedal and power supply, but not a stand or bench.
Final Words
For most students seeking a full-size piano feel and simple practice controls, choose the Yamaha P71: its 88 fully weighted, touch-sensitive keys and one-button operation make it the strongest all-around fit. Consider the Roland FP-10 when realistic key feel leads, or the Yamaha P45 for a music rest and weighted-key setup. Choose the Casio for duet mode and portability, or the Alesis Recital Play when its bundled accessories fit your needs.



