AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Home Keyboards Under $500 2026
The top pick is Casio CT-S200 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard ($144). Roland GO:KEYS 3 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 39 models across 7 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 BK · Casio
70 for sale on Reverb6 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.3 kg
- Keys61 keys
The CT-S200 is a surprisingly capable little keyboard – it's incredibly light and fun to play around with. It's an excellent first keyboard for kids or adults just starting out, or for someone who needs a truly portable instrument for casual jamming. Don't expect studio-grade sounds, but it's a great value for what you get.
Pros
- Extremely portable and lightweight for gigging or travel
- Decent piano sounds for beginner practice and casual playing
- Chordana Play app provides a genuinely helpful learning experience
Cons
- Plastic key action lacks the feel of weighted or semi-weighted keys
- 2W speakers are weak – headphone use is strongly recommended
94AudioFu
Index↓ 3.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$149 · Aug 14$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4 kg
- Keys61 keys
The PSR-E283 is a solid, budget-friendly entry point for absolute beginners or kids just starting to learn keys. It's surprisingly portable and offers a good selection of sounds and styles to keep things engaging, but don't expect a professional-grade playing experience – the key action is purely functional.
Pros
- Lightweight design (4kg) makes it highly portable for lessons or practice.
- Included PA-130 power supply eliminates immediate battery purchase.
- Decent sound quality for the price, especially for beginner learning.
Cons
- The 61-key action is synth-action, lacking the feel of weighted keys.
- Limited 32-voice polyphony can cause note dropouts with complex sounds.
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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 · Roland
58 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.9 kg
The E-X10 is a solid, budget-friendly option for beginners or those needing a portable keyboard for simple practice and casual playing. It's perfect for students or anyone wanting to explore music creation without a huge investment, though serious players will quickly outgrow its limitations.
Pros
- Surprisingly responsive velocity keys for entry-level feel
- Roland's sound engine delivers usable, decent-quality tones
- Compact size and lightweight design make it very portable
Cons
- 61 keys limit expressive playing, especially for classical or complex pieces
- 2.5W speakers are underwhelming; external amplification highly recommended
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$222 now$222€198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Casio LK-S250 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard
LK-S250 · Casio
23 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.4 kg
The LK-S250 is a solid entry-level keyboard, perfect for beginners or those wanting a lightweight, portable option for casual playing. The backlit keys are a nice touch, and the Chordana app is genuinely helpful for learning. Don't expect a pro-level experience, but for the price, it’s a fun and functional instrument.
Pros
- Backlit keys offer visual clarity for learning and performance
- Compact size and lightweight design facilitate portability and storage
- Chordana Play app integration provides a structured learning experience
Cons
- Key action is plastic and lacks the feel of weighted keys
- Limited polyphony restricts layering of sounds and complex arrangements
72AudioFu
Index↓ 13.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$245 · Aug 14$211 now$211€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4.3 kg
The CT-X700 is a solid entry-level keyboard for students and casual players. It's surprisingly portable and has a decent range of sounds, making it great for learning basics or playing along to your favorite tracks – just don’t expect studio-quality sound or advanced features.
Pros
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer nuanced expression for beginners.
- AiX sound engine delivers surprisingly rich, usable tones.
- Compact and lightweight; easy to transport for lessons or gigs.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel.
- Limited polyphony can cause note dropouts with dense arrangements.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$236 now$236€211 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Casio CT-S300 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard
CT-S300 · Casio
38 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight3.3 kg
The CT-S300 is a fantastic entry point for absolute beginners or anyone needing a super-portable keyboard. It’s surprisingly playable thanks to those velocity-sensitive keys, and the Chordana app is a real asset. Don't expect studio-quality sounds, but for casual playing and learning, it's hard to beat the value and convenience.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable for travel or small spaces
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer surprisingly expressive playing feel
- Chordana Play app provides a genuinely useful learning experience
Cons
- Polyphony is limited, impacting layered sounds and complex arrangements
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$190 now$190€170 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 ↗
All 39 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 Set · Yamaha · 3 finishes67Stable$236€211$236€211Check ↗
- 12
Yamaha EZ-310 61-Key Portable KeyboardEZ-310 · Yamaha · 3 finishes67↓ 19.1%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 13
Korg EK-50 61-Key Entertainer KeyboardEK-50 L · Korg · 3 finishes67↑ 8.4%$491€439$491€439Check ↗
- 14
Casio CT-S500 Casitone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S500 · Casio · 3 finishes66↓ 2.2%$301€269$301€269Check ↗
- 15
Casio CT-S1000V Casiotone 61-Key Vocal Synthesizer KeyboardCT-S1000V · Casio · 3 finishes66↓ 5.4%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 16
Casio CT-S100 Casiotone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S100 Set · Casio · 2 finishes63↓ 3.0%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 17
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 · Yamaha61Stable$333€298$333€298Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 Set · Yamaha61Stable$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 19
Startone MK-201Startone · 3 finishes60↓ 9.2%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 20
Casio CT-S1RDCasio · 6 finishes60↓ 7.1%$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 21
Roland E-X50 61-Key Arranger KeyboardE-X50 · Roland59↑ 4.7%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 22
Yamaha PSR-F52 61-Key Home Portable KeyboardPSR-F52 · Yamaha · 2 finishes58↓ 10.5%$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 23
Startone MK-400Startone · 3 finishes56Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 24
Startone BK-54Startone · 2 finishes53Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Startone BK-61Startone · 2 finishes53Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 26
Casio CT-S400 SetCasio · 2 finishes52↓ 7.9%$260€232$260€232Check ↗
- 27
Yamaha PSR-EW320 Deluxe BundleYamaha52Stable$432€386$432€386Check ↗
- 28
Yamaha PSR-E483Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 29
Yamaha PSR-A350 SetYamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$454€406$454€406Check ↗
- 30
Casio CT-X800 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-X800 · Casio · 2 finishes49Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 31
Casio CTK-240 61-Key Portable KeyboardCTK-240 · Casio · 2 finishes46Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 32
Startone MK-300Startone · 2 finishes46Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 33
Startone MKL-201Startone44↓ 4.8%$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 34
Startone MKR 62Startone43↓ 2.2%$49€44$49€44Check ↗
- 35
Startone MKR 49 KidsStartone42Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 36
Startone MLK-201 SetStartone42↓ 1.3%$164€147$164€147Check ↗
- 37
Roland GO:KEYS 3 RD Cover BundleRoland41Stable$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 38
Alesis Harmony 54 Portable KeyboardHarmony 54 · Alesis39Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 39
Hamaril Keyboard SetHamaril36↑ 0.5%$208€186$208€186Check ↗
Home Keyboards by the numbers
Measured across all 84 models we track, not a sample.
Median $245 — half of all home keyboards here cost less.
median of 26 models · 54–76
median of 82 models · 3 kg–7 kg
How to choose the best home keyboards
Key Action
This is huge. Forget piano-grade action at this price; look for something playable - weighted, semi-weighted, or even synth-action that isn't sluggish. A mushy action will kill your feel and articulation.
Sound Engine/Voices
Don't expect pristine orchestral samples. We're looking for usable sounds - decent pianos, some useful synth patches, and maybe a passable organ. Listen for clarity and whether the sounds cut through a mix or get lost.
Build Quality
Plastic is the name of the game here. Check for wobble, loose keys, and generally flimsy construction. Something that can survive a few gigs (even just to your living room) is a plus.
Connectivity
MIDI in/out is essential for expanding your setup. USB MIDI is a must for recording. Audio outputs (at least stereo) are obvious, but check if they're line level or need a preamp.
Polyphony
64 voices is the absolute minimum these days. Anything less and you'll hear nasty note cut-off when you layer sounds or play chords with sustain. It's a real vibe killer.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a keyboard for your home setup but don't want to drop a grand. Been there, done that. It's a tricky space - you want something that feels good to play, sounds decent enough to record a demo, and won't sound like a toy when you're jamming with your band. Let's find some options that give you the most bang for your buck without breaking the bank.
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Action will likely be the first thing to suffer - don't expect a grand piano feel. Sound quality will be decent, but don't expect nuanced acoustic instruments.
Prioritize playability and MIDI connectivity; you can always improve the sounds later with software instruments. Don't be afraid of used gear - you can often snag a higher-end model for under $500.
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 84 home keyboards from the Thomann catalogue. 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
What's the difference between weighted and semi-weighted keys?
Weighted keys try to simulate the feel of an acoustic piano, offering more resistance. Semi-weighted keys are lighter, faster, and better for synth sounds and faster playing, but lack the realistic piano feel. It's a feel thing - try both if you can.
Can I record with these keyboards?
Absolutely! Most have USB MIDI connectivity, allowing you to connect directly to your computer and use recording software. You'll need software (DAW) to capture the sounds, though - the keyboard itself only sends MIDI data.
Are these keyboards suitable for live gigs?
They can be, but manage your expectations. Don't expect pristine sound or robust durability. A decent amp and careful handling are key. The limited polyphony can be an issue if you're layering a lot of sounds.
What does 'polyphony' mean?
Polyphony is the number of notes the keyboard can play simultaneously. Low polyphony means notes will drop out when you play complex chords or layered sounds - a real problem for piano or organ parts.
Should I buy new or used?
Used is almost always a better value. You can often get a higher-spec keyboard for the same price. Just be sure to check for wear and tear and test all the keys.





