So you want to learn to play piano. Should you choose a digital piano or an electric keyboard? Parents of my music students frequently ask for help to demystify the subject and ask for recommendations. Adult students inquire as well, wishing to understand a marketplace that has changed drastically since they began playing music.
There are many similarities as well as distinct features for each instrument category. When purchasing a new piano for yourself or a loved one, understanding the subtle character variations of a digital piano versus an electric keyboard will help you make the best choice for your needs. In this article, I will sort through some of the main differences between digital pianos versus electric keyboards to help you make the best decision for your situation. You can also peruse the selection of each type at Best Buy Canada: I’ll show some examples of specific models throughout the article.

 

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Number of keys on a digital piano vs an electric keyboard 

Digital pianos have a full 88-key range. By design, they reflect the characteristics of the time-honoured acoustic piano, which also has 88 keys. A traditional piano has a simple and elegant look and distinct feel as it is played. A digital piano can authentically replicate the full acoustic version while occupying much less space in your home or music room.

On the other end, the number of keys on electric keyboards can vary from 88 keys to 25 keys. Although the primary features are black and white keys (just like a regular piano), the most common keyboards have only 61 or 49 keys. 61-key electric keyboards are a popular choice because they take up less space than the 88-key version, while still providing a nice musical range to work with.

Touch and feel of a digital piano vs an electric keyboard 

Digital pianos feel most like a traditional piano as they aim to recreate the authenticity of the acoustic instrument. As a result, the weight of the keys and the overall feel of the playing experience are closely mirrored. In fact, highest-quality pianos deliver an extremely convincing experience. Note that the weight and feel of the keys are important factors in the price. Generally speaking, the more authentic digital pianos feel, the more expensive they are.

Casio CT-S100 Electric Keyboard

Electric keyboards feel different overall. They have the layout of a conventional piano, but the key design does not necessarily play and feel like a traditional instrument. Some models, for example, don’t have fully-weighted keys. Some electric pianos have resistance in the keys. Other models have no resistance at all. As with digital pianos, the degree to which the keys are weighted can be reflected in the price.

Touch sensitivity on a digital piano vs an electric keyboard 

The vast majority of digital pianos and electric keyboards have touch sensitivity. Therefore, the volume of the keyboard will be louder depending on how hard you play the key. This allows for more expression and dynamics via the force applied. Many keyboards provided feedback to the amount of force you apply. This weighted action of the keys has drastically improved over the years to approximate the feel of a traditional acoustic piano. This is true for all of the major brands including Roland, Casio, Yamaha, Korg, and Alesis, though each brand has their own methods for creating this effect.

Roland 88-Key Weighted Hammer Action Digital Piano

Do digital pianos and electric keyboards come with a sustain pedal?

Roland pedal kit

Most digital pianos are equipped with a sustain pedal, and it adds to their authenticity. In some cases, it is a single pedal that you plug in to use. Alternatively, you can find a complete set of three pedals (and these can also be found as an upgrade kit for most brands). The three-pedal assembly is usually included in the higher-end pianos.

Electric keyboards, on the other end, do not always have a sustain pedal so pay careful attention if a sustain pedal is important to you! In fact, electric keyboards generally do not have a sustain pedal in the package. It is a subtle difference you may not notice at first, so take a closer look at the details and specs before purchasing the model you like. Sustain pedals are available as an add-on, however, and you can find keyboard pedals that fit any budget.

Sounds choices on an electric keyboard vs a digital piano 

An enticing feature of electric keyboards is the many sounds at one’s disposal. There can be hundreds of sounds available on some electric keyboards, varying from violins to synthesizers to drums. You will find piano sounds too, of course! Electric keyboards also  often contain a large selection of pre-programmed tracks and auto-accompaniment. This creates a music-making experience that is quite different from a digital piano. Some digital pianos also have this feature, but to a lesser extent.

Authenticity is a major focus of digital pianos manufacturers. This is measured mostly in the weight and feel of the keys but also in the quality of the digitized piano sound inside. That means that digital pianos do have fewer sound choices than electric keyboards. However, the sound choices included tend to be of a higher quality and resolution. There are usually five or six sounds readily available with the touch of a button, and many digital pianos have even more sounds accessible via submenus on the instrument. You may find anywhere between 8 to 24 sounds (or more) onboard your digital piano. A quick reading of the user’s manual or a helpful YouTube video can help explain how to use them.

Portability of a digital piano vs an electric keyboard

Electric keyboards are more portable than digital pianos. A 61-key or 49-key keyboard is simply smaller than any 88-key version. The weighted and semi-weighted key systems featured in a digital piano require mechanical elements, making the instrument heavier overall. However, some digital pianos are more portable than others, and I see professionals use them regularly. Make sure to pay attention to the weight of the piano if you would like to transport it regularly.

Aesthetic differences between an electric keyboard vs a digital piano 

Casio PX-770 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano

Many models of digital pianos are intended to fit into the decor of your home. If they don’t already come with a stand, there are usually upgrade kits specific to the model and brand available so digital pianos can take on a similar look to their acoustic equivalents. Digital pianos blend in well with other furnishings and can add class to your home.

Alesis Virtue 88-Key Electric Keyboard with Stand & Bench

Electric keyboards, on the other hand, often have a more playful appearance. An LED menu and many buttons invite amusement and exploration. The look reflects the intention of the instrument: to explore the many sounds and features while enjoying the convenience and portability of the keyboard. It is less common to find an electric keyboard with a built-in stand. Instead, you will find a folding stand that is sold separately. Occasionally, a kit is sold that contains both the electric keyboard and folding stand.

When would you use an electric keyboard vs a digital piano 

Korg C1 Air 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano with Stand

Both digital pianos and electric keyboards are fun to play. You may consider these subtle differences in usage, depending on your needs. A digital piano is a great choice if you already have experience playing piano, or if you intend to make piano repertoire your music of choice. If you’re an intermediate or advanced user, the convincing response and sound make for hours of amusement as you play through the classics, practice technique, and work on your favourite new song. For young pianists, a digital piano is a good choice too if you are taking formal conservatory-style lessons. Once again, authenticity is an important factor.

Electric keyboards offer another approach to making music. Offering a diverse sound selection, automated accompaniment, and drum features, they provide different ways to be creative. Electric keyboards are a great starting point for children as there is simply so much to explore! And when it comes to music lessons, many do just fine with a keyboard as they learn to navigate the keys and read music. Then, when they’re ready to take their learning further, you can trade up to a digital piano.

Yamaha P-125 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano

Should you get a digital piano or an electric keyboard? 

Understanding the differences between digital pianos versus electric keyboards can help you make the best decision for your needs. Use this information as a guide toward finding your preference.

Features to consider when choosing between a digital piano versus an electric keyboard are the number of keys, touch, feel, key sensitivity, and need for a sustain pedal. Other important factors will be the number of sounds you desire, portability, and aesthetic qualities. Finally, it will be useful to decide who will use the instrument. Will it be young children or intermediate to advanced pianists?

Whether you choose a digital piano or an electric keyboard, you will find a great selection at Best Buy online. Have fun exploring all of the options available!

Clinton Ryder
Clinton Ryder
http://www.clintonrydermusic.com
Based in Montreal, Canada, bassist Clinton Ryder uses a solid musical and creative foundation in his work as a professional musician, music teacher and creative coach. Proficient on both acoustic (double) bass and bass guitar, he is energized by many genres of music, particularly American music. A passion for learning, creating, collaborating, and supporting musical performance has led to thousands of live performances and numerous studio recordings reflecting his diverse musical interests. These include performances and projects with Hugh Fraser, Nikki Yanofsky, The Dears, The Irish Rovers, Holly Arntzen, Félix Stüssi, Tania Gill, Dawn Tyler Watson, Jim Byrnes, Petru Guelfucci, and Yourgi Loeffler. Find out more about his work at www.clintonrydermusic.com
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211 COMMENTS

  1. I learned that digital pianos are more authentic with its mechanisms and thus heavier than electric keyboards.

  4. I learned about how electric keyboards have less sound than digital pianos. It does create noise

  5. Never really thought about the fact that, in contrast to digital pianos, most electric keyboards do NOT come with a sustain pedal. Important note – thanks!

  8. Numbers of keys change for a variety of reasons. Next review of this difference maybe for Christmas 2022. Please bullet number the differences. Reading it got me extremely dizzy.

  14. Was a interesting article. I learned that electric keyboards dont have the same feel or weight of the keys that a good digital piano will have.

  15. One of the differences that I learned is that digital pianos feel more like a traditional piano, whereas the electric keyboards do not.

  17. One of the differences that I learned is that digital pianos feel more like a traditional piano, whereas the electric keyboards do not.

  18. I learned that the number of keys on electric keyboards can vary from 88 keys to 25 keys, instead of 88 on an acoustic piano. What I already knew is they are WAY smaller so much better suited to apartment or small-home living. Thanks for the chance to win!

  24. I learned that digital pianos all have the standard piano number of key which is 88. A digital keyboard can have less keys.

  28. I learned that the vast majority of digital pianos and electric keyboards have touch sensitivity.

  29. One of the differences is the number of keys! Digital pianos have an 88-key range, while electric keyboards can range from 88 to 25 keys.

  30. I learned that digital pianos always have the standard piano number of 88 keys, wheras keyboards can have various numbers of keys dependent upon model.

  32. This is an interesting explanation of the difference between a Digital piano and an Electronic Keyboard. Digital pianos have a full 88-key range, feel more like a traditional piano and blend in well with other furnishings. Electric keyboards often contain a large selection of pre-programmed tracks and auto-accompaniment. Thanks!

  33. Digital pianos have a full 88-key range, more than electric keyboards, which can vary from 88 keys to 25 keys.

  34. Great article. I learned that digital pianos always have the standard piano number of 88 keys, wheras keyboards can have various numbers of keys dependent upon model.

  37. According to the article, the differences lie in the number of keys, touch, feel, key sensitivity, need for a sustain pedal, number of sounds and portability, though some keyboards can match pianos in the first five parameters, and some pianos do reasonably well in the last two.

  38. I learned from the article that the key design of an electric keyboard does not necessarily play and feel like a traditional instrument, unlike a piano.

  39. So many interesting differences. The numbers of keys in the digital are a full 88 versus the Electric of 25-88. The Digital feels more like a traditional piano and the keys are weighted. There are 1-3 sustain pedals in a Digital, lesser sound choices and the Digital piano is better for those with prior experience such as myself.

  40. Digital pianos have a range of 88 keys, while electric keyboards can range between 25 to 88 keys.

  41. a difference between digital pianos and electric keyboard that I learned from this article, that Digital pianos have an
    88-key range, while an electric keyboard can range from 88 to 25 keys.

  42. Digital piano blends in better with the existing furniture which is something I haven’t considered before.

  43. I learned that most digital pianos come with a sustain pedal while electronic keyboards usually do not.

  44. Most digital pianos are equipped with a sustain pedal and electric keyboards, on the other end, do not always have a sustain pedal.

  46. I learned that digital pianos have a full 88-key range while electric keyboards can range from 88 to 25 keys.

  47. One difference between digital pianos and keyboards that I learned from this article is that Digital pianos have an 88-key range, while an electric keyboard can range from 88 to 25 keys.

  49. I learned about how electric keyboards are more portable than digital pianos, which is not something I considered before!

  50. My apologies. I meant to put the difference here. I learned that the number of keys are different for a digital and electric keyboard. For example, the digital one has 88 keys.

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