AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Home Keyboards for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Casio CT-S200 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard ($186). Roland GO:KEYS 5 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 62 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Casio CT-S200 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard
CT-S200 WH Set · Casio
70 for sale on Reverb6 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.3 kg
- Keys61 keys
This Casio CT-S200 set is a fantastic entry point for beginners or anyone needing a truly portable keyboard. The included stand is a nice touch, and the Chordana Play app makes learning approachable. It's ideal for students, casual players, or those wanting a simple, affordable keyboard for practice and light performance.
Pros
- Lightweight design (3.3kg) makes transport incredibly easy for lessons or gigs
- The included KS-1001 stand offers a surprisingly stable and adjustable setup
- Chordana Play app integration provides a genuinely helpful learning experience
Cons
- The 2W speakers are adequate but lack significant power for performance
- Limited polyphony (48 voices) can cause noticeable dropouts with complex layering
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Roland GO:KEYS 3 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard
GO:KEYS 3 TQ · Roland
47 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.5 kg
The GO:KEYS 3 TQ is a seriously fun and accessible keyboard for beginners, hobbyists, or anyone wanting a portable, all-in-one solution. It's packed with sounds and features, making it great for casual playing, songwriting, or even lightweight gigging – especially if you prioritize portability and ease of use over ultimate keyboard realism.
Pros
- ZEN-Core sound engine delivers surprisingly rich, authentic instrument tones.
- Lightweight design and battery operation enable truly portable performance.
- Intuitive Chord Sequencer simplifies creating complex harmonic progressions.
Cons
- 61-key action lacks the depth and feel of a weighted keyboard action.
- Small display limits detailed information and navigation complexity.
76AudioFu
Index↓ 7.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$390 · Aug 14$361 now$361€323 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight6.9 kg
The CT-X3000 is a surprisingly capable entry-level keyboard. The AiX sounds are a real step up from older Casios, and the velocity-sensitive keys add a welcome touch of expression. It’s ideal for beginners, students, or anyone needing a lightweight, portable keyboard for casual playing and song practice.
Pros
- Excellent AiX sound engine delivers surprisingly rich tones
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer expressive playing feel
- Compact and lightweight for easy portability and setup
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel
- 61 keys limit versatility for experienced pianists
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Roland JC-40 Jazz Chorus 2-Channel 40-Watt 2x10" Guitar Combo
E-X10 Set · Roland
58 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.9 kg
The Roland E-X10 is a solid, budget-friendly starter keyboard set. It's perfect for beginners, kids, or anyone needing a portable, all-in-one practice solution – the included stand is a real bonus. Don't expect professional-grade audio quality, but for casual playing and learning, it's hard to beat the value.
Pros
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer expressive playing feel.
- Included stand provides immediate, functional setup.
- Built-in speakers offer decent volume for practice.
Cons
- 61 keys limit advanced playing and chord voicings.
- 2.5W speakers lack power for performance or larger rooms.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$245 now$245€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Roland GO:KEYS 5 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard
GO:KEYS 5 WH · Roland
35 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.9 kg
- Keys61 keys
The GO:KEYS 5 is a seriously fun and approachable keyboard, especially for beginners or casual players wanting a ton of sounds in a portable package. Roland’s ZEN-Core engine brings a modern sonic palette, and the built-in features like the Chord Sequencer make it easy to get started with music creation. It’s a great grab-and-go solution for practice, jamming, or performing in smaller spaces.
Pros
- ZEN-Core sounds deliver surprisingly rich and modern tones.
- Bluetooth 5.0 offers reliable audio and MIDI connectivity.
- The Chord Sequencer is genuinely useful for quick song creation.
Cons
- 61-key action lacks the nuance of weighted or semi-weighted keys.
- Limited speaker power; headphones or external speakers are recommended.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$502 now$502€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Casio CT-X700 61-Key Portable Keyboard
CT-X700 Deluxe Bundle · Casio
31 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.3 kg
This bundle packs a solid 61-key keyboard with enough voices and rhythms to keep kids or beginners busy for hours. It comes with a power cord and music stand, which is nice for a home setup. However, the speakers are quite weak, so you really want to use headphones for a good sound. It's a practical choice for someone who wants a full package without needing a power outlet.
Pros
- 61 keys with velocity sensitivity for real touch feel
- 48 voices allow complex layering without dropping notes
- 160 songs and 195 rhythms built-in for immediate fun
Cons
- Battery powered option means no power outlet access
- Speakers are small at only 2.5 watts each
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$335 now$335€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Casio LK-S450 Casitone 61-Key Keyboard with Lighted Keys
LK-S450 · Casio
17 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.6 kg
The LK-S450 is a solid entry-level keyboard for beginners or casual players. The illuminated keys and auto-accompaniment features make learning enjoyable, and the portability is a big plus. It's not a pro instrument, but it's a great value for the price and a good way to get started with music.
Pros
- Illuminated keys simplify learning, especially for beginners
- AiX sound engine delivers surprisingly realistic piano tones
- Compact size and battery operation offer excellent portability
Cons
- The 2.5W speakers are weak; headphones are essential for decent volume
- Velocity sensitivity, while present, isn't exceptionally nuanced
68AudioFu
Index↓ 10.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$296 · Aug 14$266 now$266€238 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight7 kg
The CT-X5000 is a surprisingly capable keyboard for the price. Its AiX sounds are a real highlight, and the velocity-sensitive keys add a level of expressiveness you don't usually find in this class of instrument. This is a great option for beginners, songwriters, or anyone needing a lightweight, portable keyboard with a decent sound palette.
Pros
- Excellent AiX sound engine delivers surprisingly rich tones
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer expressive playing feel
- Portability is a huge plus for gigging or lessons
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel
- Limited key travel may not satisfy seasoned pianists
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$408 now$408€365 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8 kg
- Keys61 keys
The Korg EK-50 L Set is a fun, all-in-one package for beginners or hobbyists wanting a self-contained entertainment keyboard. The built-in speakers are genuinely impressive for the size, and the song playback features are a great learning tool. It’s a fantastic option for casual players or those wanting a portable, ready-to-play setup.
Pros
- Powerful, surprisingly full-bodied 20W speaker system for home use
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer expressive playing potential
- Built-in song playback simplifies learning and performance
Cons
- 61 keys limit advanced piano techniques and chord voicings
- Plastic construction feels budget-friendly, lacks premium keyboard feel
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- Weight4.6 kg
The EZ-310 is a solid entry point for absolute beginners or folks wanting a portable, self-contained keyboard. It's well-equipped with learning tools and a good range of sounds, though don't expect studio-quality audio or deep MIDI integration – it's designed for learning and casual playing, not professional production.
Pros
- Illuminated keys simplify learning and visual feedback.
- Decent polyphony (48 voices) avoids basic song muddiness.
- Built-in lesson functions are genuinely helpful for beginners.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel.
- Limited MIDI recording capabilities hinder more advanced composition.
All 62 home keyboards
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Yamaha PSR-E383 61-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-E383 Deluxe Bundle · Yamaha · 3 finishes67Stable$308€275$308€275Check ↗
- 12
Casio LK-S250 Casiotone 61-Key Portable KeyboardLK-S250 Set · Casio · 2 finishes66Stable$241€215$241€215Check ↗
- 13
Casio CT-S500 Casitone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S500 · Casio · 3 finishes66↓ 2.2%$301€269$301€269Check ↗
- 14
Casio CT-S1000V Casiotone 61-Key Vocal Synthesizer KeyboardCT-S1000V · Casio · 3 finishes66↓ 5.4%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 15
Casio CT-S300 Casiotone 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-S300 Set · Casio · 2 finishes70↑ 0.5%$219€196$219€196Check ↗
- 16
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 · Yamaha61Stable$333€298$333€298Check ↗
- 17
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 Set · Yamaha61Stable$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha PSR-E283 61-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-E283 Set · Yamaha · 2 finishes75↓ 7.7%$175€156$175€156Check ↗
- 19
Casio CT-S1RD SetCasio · 6 finishes60↓ 6.0%$262€234$262€234Check ↗
- 20
Roland E-X50 61-Key Arranger KeyboardE-X50 · Roland59↑ 4.7%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 21
Startone MK-400 Deluxe BundleStartone · 3 finishes56↑ 1.6%$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 22
Casio CT-S400 SetCasio · 2 finishes52↓ 7.9%$260€232$260€232Check ↗
- 23
Yamaha PSR-EW320 Deluxe BundleYamaha52Stable$432€386$432€386Check ↗
- 24
Yamaha PSR-E483Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 25
Yamaha PSR-A350 SetYamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$454€406$454€406Check ↗
- 26
Casio CT-X800 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-X800 · Casio · 2 finishes49Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 27
Roland GO:KEYS 5 WH Cover BundleRoland48Stable$519€464$519€464Check ↗
- 28
Roland GO:KEYS 5 GT Cover BundleRoland48Stable$519€464$519€464Check ↗
- 29
Yamaha DGX-670 88-Key Portable Grand PianoDGX-670 WH · Yamaha · 6 finishes92Stable$893€798$893€798Check ↗
- 30
Casio CT-S100 Casiotone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S100 Set · Casio · 2 finishes63↓ 3.0%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 31
Roland GO:KEYS 3 RD Cover BundleRoland41Stable$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 32
Startone MK-201 SetStartone · 3 finishes59↓ 5.9%$142€127$142€127Check ↗
- 33
Yamaha PSR-F52 61-Key Home Portable KeyboardPSR-F52 Set · Yamaha · 2 finishes57↓ 8.2%$125€112$125€112Check ↗
- 34
Startone MK-300 SetStartone · 2 finishes45↑ 1.3%$176€157$176€157Check ↗
- 35
Hamaril Keyboard SetHamaril36↑ 0.5%$208€186$208€186Check ↗
- 36
Korg Pa700 Professional Arranger - StandardPA-700 · Korg · 3 finishes73↓ 7.7%$1,341€1,199$1,341€1,199Check ↗
- 37
Startone MLK-201 SetStartone42↓ 1.3%$164€147$164€147Check ↗
- 38
Casio CTK-240 61-Key Portable KeyboardCTK-240 Set · Casio · 2 finishes46Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 39
Yamaha PSR-A5000 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPSR-A5000 · Yamaha · 2 finishes69↓ 1.0%$2,026€1,811$2,026€1,811Check ↗
- 40
Startone BK-61 SetStartone · 2 finishes52↑ 2.1%$109€97$109€97Check ↗
- 41
Startone BK-54 SetStartone · 2 finishes52↑ 3.5%$98€88$98€88Check ↗
- 42
Startone MKL-201Startone44↓ 4.8%$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 43
Yamaha PSR-SX920 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPSR-SX920 · Yamaha64↓ 5.7%$2,063€1,844$2,063€1,844Check ↗
- 44
Yamaha PSR-SX920 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPSR-SX920 Set · Yamaha64↓ 5.6%$2,091€1,869$2,091€1,869Check ↗
- 45
Korg Pa300 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPA-300 · Korg · 2 finishes61↓ 3.2%$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 46
Korg Pa600 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPA-600 · Korg61↓ 2.5%$872€779$872€779Check ↗
- 47
Yamaha PSR-SX720 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPSR-SX720+ · Yamaha55Stable$1,543€1,379$1,543€1,379Check ↗
- 48
Yamaha PSR-SX720 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPSR-SX720+ Set · Yamaha55Stable$1,565€1,399$1,565€1,399Check ↗
- 49
Yamaha PSR-SX600 61-Key Digital WorkstationPSR-SX600 · Yamaha54↓ 1.7%$782€699$782€699Check ↗
- 50
Yamaha PSR-SX600 61-Key Digital WorkstationPSR-SX600 Set · Yamaha54↓ 0.5%$822€735$822€735Check ↗
- 51
Yamaha PSR-E583Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$546€488$546€488Check ↗
- 52
Alesis Harmony 54 Portable KeyboardHarmony 54 · Alesis39Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 53
Yamaha HD-300 Harmony Director 61-Key KeyboardHD-300 Harmony Director · Yamaha50Stable$710€635$710€635Check ↗
- 54
Thomann AK-X1100Thomann · 4 finishes48Stable$621€555$621€555Check ↗
- 55
Yamaha PSR-SX920 Deluxe BundleYamaha47↓ 5.9%$2,175€1,944$2,175€1,944Check ↗
- 56
Yamaha PSR-SX620 SetYamaha46↓ 3.5%$1,252€1,119$1,252€1,119Check ↗
- 57
Startone MKR 62Startone43↓ 2.2%$49€44$49€44Check ↗
- 58
Yamaha PSR-SX600 Deluxe BundleYamaha45↓ 1.6%$893€798$893€798Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-SX620 Deluxe BundleYamaha45↓ 3.0%$1,326€1,185$1,326€1,185Check ↗
- 60
Yamaha PSR-SX720+ Deluxe BundleYamaha44Stable$1,621€1,449$1,621€1,449Check ↗
- 61
Startone MKR 49 KidsStartone42Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 62
Yamaha PSR-SX620Yamaha38↓ 3.5%$1,218€1,089$1,218€1,089Check ↗
Home Keyboards by the numbers
Measured across all 145 models we track, not a sample.
Median $335 — half of all home keyboards here cost less.
median of 142 models · 3.3 kg–17.4 kg
median of 51 models · 54–88
most common · 6 models
How to choose the best home keyboards
Action
The keybed is everything. A semi-weighted action is a minimum for intermediate players; you need some resistance to get expressive dynamics. Fully weighted actions mimic a real piano, offering the best articulation and control, but they're pricier and heavier.
Sound Engine & Voicing
Forget basic presets. Look for keyboards with multiple engines (Rhodes, B3, piano) and a decent selection of sounds. The voicing is critical - a bright, thin piano sound won't cut it; you want something with warmth and sustain that doesn't sound sterile.
Connectivity & MIDI
As an intermediate player, you'll want more than just headphone out. MIDI in/out is essential for expanding your rig, and USB audio is a must for simple recording. Aux sends and effects loops are a bonus for live work.
Polyphony & Memory
Limited polyphony will kill your creativity. Aim for at least 64 voices, and enough memory to store your own sounds and custom setups. Nothing's worse than a note dropping out mid-comping because you hit too many keys.
User Interface & Learning Curve
A confusing interface will slow your progress. While complexity can be a good thing, it shouldn't be overwhelming. Look for clear labeling, intuitive controls, and a logical layout - you want to play, not decipher a manual.
Buying guide
So, you've moved past those beginner Casios and are looking for something with a little more meat on its bones. As an intermediate player, you're probably craving more expressive control, better sounds, and maybe even the ability to lay down some tracks without hauling a full-sized stage piano. This isn't about the cheapest option; it's about finding a keyboard that'll actually inspire you to practice and grow, and that can hold its own in a band rehearsal or even a small gig.
Don't be swayed by flashy features you won't use. The action is paramount - a bad action will kill your technique. Budget for a decent pair of headphones or monitors, too; tinny laptop speakers will mask the keyboard's true potential.
And remember, a little bit of latency is unavoidable with USB audio, but anything over 20ms starts to feel sluggish.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 127 home keyboards from the Thomann catalogue (of 145 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Is a weighted action really necessary?
If you're serious about developing piano technique, yes. It's the closest you'll get to a real piano feel, allowing for nuanced dynamics and articulation. However, a good semi-weighted action can be a decent compromise if budget is a concern.
What's the deal with aftertouch?
Aftertouch allows you to control parameters like vibrato or filter cutoff after you hit a key. It's a cool expressive tool, but not essential for most intermediate players. Don't prioritize it over a better action or sound engine.
Can I record directly to my computer with these?
Most keyboards with USB connectivity can act as audio interfaces. Just make sure your DAW recognizes it and you have the appropriate drivers installed. Latency can be an issue, though, so a dedicated audio interface is still preferable for critical recording.
How much memory do I really need?
It depends on how many custom sounds and patches you plan to create. 128MB is a good starting point, but 256MB or more will give you more breathing room, especially if you like layering sounds.
Are used keyboards a good option?
Absolutely! You can often find great deals on used models, especially if you're willing to do a little research and inspect the keyboard in person. Just be sure to check the action for any signs of wear or damage.
