AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Startone Home Keyboards 2026
The top pick is Startone MK-201 ($111). Startone MKR 49 Kids gives you the most for the money at $37. Startone MK-400 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 9 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
Top 9
Full detail for the 9 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Weight4 kg
- Keys61 keys
The Startone MK-201 is a surprisingly capable entry-level keyboard. It's perfect for beginners, kids learning their first chords, or anyone needing a lightweight, portable instrument for casual playing – just don't expect studio-quality sounds or complex features.
Pros
- Surprisingly responsive touch response for budget keyboard.
- Solid build quality; feels more substantial than its price suggests.
- The included sequencer offers basic song creation capabilities.
Cons
- USB connectivity is MIDI only; no audio output via USB.
- The 2.5W speakers are weak; headphones are strongly recommended.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 9.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$122 · Aug 14$111 now$111€99 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight5.1 kg
- Keys61 keys
The Startone MK-400 is a surprisingly capable home keyboard, especially for beginners or casual players. The sheer volume of sounds and styles, coupled with the unique filter touchpad, offer a lot of creative potential for the price. It's a great option for someone looking for a portable, all-in-one solution for learning or just having fun.
Pros
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer expressive playing feel
- Surprisingly robust build for an entry-level keyboard
- Extensive sound library provides broad sonic palette
Cons
- USB connectivity is MIDI only, limiting DAW integration
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, not premium
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight3 kg
- Keys54 keys
The Startone BK-54 is a remarkably affordable entry point into keyboard playing. It’s a great option for absolute beginners, kids, or anyone needing a very basic, portable instrument for casual practice and simple song playing. Don't expect professional-grade sounds or feel, but for the price, it’s hard to argue with the value.
Pros
- Surprisingly lightweight for its size, making it portable for lessons or small spaces.
- The included power supply eliminates the immediate need for batteries.
- 300 voices offer a decent variety for beginner exploration and simple arrangements.
Cons
- The plastic construction feels budget-oriented and may not withstand heavy use.
- Limited key range (54 keys) restricts playing more complex pieces and chords.
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- Weight3.62 kg
- Keys61 keys
The Startone BK-61 is a seriously affordable option for absolute beginners or kids just starting out. Don't expect professional-grade sounds or feel, but it offers a surprisingly complete package with a decent selection of voices and styles for casual fun and learning. It’s a solid entry point for someone wanting to experiment without a significant investment.
Pros
- Surprisingly lightweight for a 61-key keyboard, easy to move and set up.
- Includes a power supply and music stand – a good value-added starter package.
- Decent range of voices and styles for beginner exploration and casual playing.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented; lacks the robustness of higher-end models.
- The built-in speakers will likely be weak; headphone use is highly recommended.
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- Weight4.5 kg
The Startone MK-300 is a fantastic entry point for beginners or those needing a lightweight, portable keyboard for practice and casual playing. It's hard to beat the value proposition here – you get a surprising number of sounds and features for the price, making it ideal for students or anyone just starting their musical journey.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys offer decent expressive control
- Impressive voice and style count for a budget keyboard
- Built-in speakers are surprisingly adequate for practice
Cons
- Plastic construction feels noticeably budget-oriented
- Limited polyphony restricts layering complexity
46AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4 kg
The Startone MKL-201 is a solid entry-level keyboard, especially for beginners or those needing a portable, all-in-one solution. It’s got a surprising number of sounds and features for the price, making it a great choice for casual players, students, or anyone wanting a basic keyboard for home practice or light performance.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys offer decent expressive control
- Surprisingly robust build for the price point; feels solid
- Comprehensive sound library provides a wide range of tones
Cons
- Polyphony limit will be noticeable with complex arrangements
- Speakers are adequate but lack bass response for serious monitoring
44AudioFu
Index↓ 4.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$140 · Aug 14$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Keys61 keys
Okay, so the Startone MKR 62 is exactly what it looks like: a budget-friendly roll-up keyboard. It's a fantastic option for absolute beginners, kids learning the basics, or anyone needing a super-portable instrument for casual playing – don’t expect professional-grade sound or feel, though.
Pros
- Surprisingly decent key action for a roll-up, playable feel.
- MIDI Out opens possibilities for connection to DAWs.
- Built-in rhythms provide basic backing tracks for practice.
Cons
- Sound quality is thin and lacks dynamic range, typical of this price point.
- Roll-up design compromises feel and limits nuanced playing.
43AudioFu
Index↓ 2.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$50 · Aug 14$49 now$49€44 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Keys49 keys
This Startone MKR 49 Kids is a super-budget-friendly entry point for young learners or anyone needing a portable keyboard. It’s fantastic for introducing kids to basic music concepts and experimentation, but don't expect a professional playing experience. The roll-up design and USB charging are clever touches for its intended audience.
Pros
- Roll-up design offers extreme portability and easy storage for travel or small spaces.
- Includes MIDI output allowing connection to computers for music production software.
- Battery operation provides flexibility beyond needing a constant power source.
Cons
- Key action is membrane-style, lacking the feel and responsiveness of weighted keys.
- Limited speaker quality will likely necessitate headphone use or external amplification.
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- Weight4 kg
The Startone MLK-201 is a solid entry point for absolute beginners or kids just starting out with keyboards. It's surprisingly feature-packed for the price, offering a good range of sounds and rhythms, and the portability is a real bonus. Don't expect professional-grade performance, but for casual playing and learning, it's hard to beat the value.
Pros
- 61 velocity-sensitive keys offer decent expressive control
- Surprisingly decent polyphony for the price point – 64 voices is usable
- Built-in speakers are adequate for practice and casual play
Cons
- USB functionality is MIDI only, limiting direct audio output
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel
Home Keyboards by the numbers
Measured across all 145 models we track, not a sample.
Median $142 — 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
Vintage Voicing
Startone's signature is leaning into that warm, slightly gritty Rhodes/Wurlitzer vibe. It's not pristine, and that's a good thing - it's got character. You'll get that fat midrange honk that's perfect for comps and pads, but it's not a sterile, perfect emulation.
Key Action
The action on the higher-end Startone models (especially those with weighted keys) is surprisingly decent for the price. It's not Fatar-level, but it's responsive enough for expressive playing and won't leave you feeling like you're wrestling with a piano bench. The lighter action models are fine for simpler playing, but don't expect nuance.
Build Quality
Let's be real, they're not built like a Steinway. The chassis is usually plastic, and the keys themselves can feel a little plasticky too. However, the overall construction feels solid enough to handle gigging, as long as you're not tossing it around. The pots and knobs generally hold up, but I'd recommend having a few spares on hand just in case.
Sound Engine Flexibility
Startone's sound engines aren't just limited to electric pianos. You'll find a surprisingly diverse range of sounds - organs, strings, brass - and the ability to layer sounds is a huge plus for creating unique textures. The effects, while not top-tier, are usable and can add a lot of character to your playing.
Value Proposition
This is where Startone really shines. You're getting a keyboard with a genuinely usable sound and feel for significantly less than the competition. It's a great entry point for anyone wanting to explore vintage keyboard sounds without breaking the bank, and it's a solid option for gigging musicians on a budget.
Buying guide
So, you're looking at a home keyboard? Smart move - they're surprisingly versatile. Startone's been quietly building a reputation for delivering a lot of bang for your buck in this space, especially if you're craving something with a bit more vintage mojo than the usual digital fare. These aren't just glorified toy keyboards; they're designed to feel and sound like something you'd find in a pro studio, without the pro studio price tag.
If you're after pristine, hyper-realistic sounds, Startone probably isn't for you. But if you want something with character, something that can add some warmth and grit to your tracks or cut through a live mix, they're worth a serious look. Pay attention to the key action - weighted keys are a big upgrade if you're used to playing acoustic pianos.
And honestly, budget a little extra for a decent set of headphones; the built-in speakers are... adequate.
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 16 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
Are Startone keyboards reliable for gigging?
They're surprisingly robust for the price, but treat them with respect. The plastic chassis is a potential weak point, so avoid rough handling. Having a few spare pots on hand is always a good idea.
How do Startone's sounds compare to Yamaha or Roland?
They're not trying to be Yamaha or Roland. Startone's sounds have a different character - more vintage, warmer, and slightly less polished. It's a stylistic choice, not a deficiency.
Can I connect headphones and external speakers?
Absolutely. Most Startone keyboards have standard 1/4" outputs for headphones and external amplification. The headphone amp isn't stellar, so an external amp will definitely improve the sound.
Are the keys velocity-sensitive?
Yes, most models offer velocity sensitivity, allowing for dynamic control over volume and expression. However, the lower-priced models might have a less nuanced response.
What's the warranty like?
Startone typically offers a one-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. Read the fine print, as it may vary depending on your region.
