AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Home Keyboards Under $800 2026
The top pick is Casio CT-S200 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard ($144). Roland GO:KEYS 5 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 47 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 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 ↗ -
Roland GO:KEYS 5 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard
GO:KEYS 5 GT · Roland
35 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Weight4.9 kg
- Keys61 keys
The GO:KEYS 5 GT is a seriously fun and approachable keyboard, especially for beginners or casual players wanting instant gratification. Roland's ZEN-Core engine brings a surprising amount of sonic depth to a portable package, and the built-in features like the Chord Sequencer and arpeggiator make it easy to create music on the fly. It's a great grab-and-go option for practice, songwriting, or light performance.
Pros
- ZEN-Core sounds deliver surprisingly rich, nuanced tones for the price.
- Bluetooth 5.0 provides stable audio and MIDI connectivity.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it exceptionally portable and giggable.
Cons
- 61-key action lacks the feel of a weighted or semi-weighted keyboard.
- Limited display resolution hinders detailed editing and parameter adjustments.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$502 now$502€449 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 ↗
All 47 home keyboards
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Casio CT-X5000 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-X5000 · Casio · 3 finishes68Stable$408€365$408€365Check ↗
- 12
Korg EK-50 61-Key Entertainer KeyboardEK-50 L Set · Korg · 3 finishes68↑ 5.7%$502€449$502€449Check ↗
- 13
Yamaha PSR-E383 61-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-E383 Set · Yamaha · 3 finishes67Stable$236€211$236€211Check ↗
- 14
Yamaha EZ-310 61-Key Portable KeyboardEZ-310 · Yamaha · 3 finishes67↓ 19.1%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 15
Casio CT-S500 Casitone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S500 · Casio · 3 finishes66↓ 2.2%$301€269$301€269Check ↗
- 16
Casio CT-S1000V Casiotone 61-Key Vocal Synthesizer KeyboardCT-S1000V · Casio · 3 finishes66↓ 5.4%$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 17
Casio CT-S100 Casiotone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S100 Set · Casio · 2 finishes63↓ 3.0%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 · Yamaha61Stable$333€298$333€298Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 Set · Yamaha61Stable$357€319$357€319Check ↗
- 20
Korg Pa300 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPA-300 · Korg · 2 finishes61↓ 3.2%$670€599$670€599Check ↗
- 21
Startone MK-201Startone · 3 finishes60↓ 9.2%$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 22
Casio CT-S1RDCasio · 6 finishes60↓ 7.1%$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 23
Roland E-X50 61-Key Arranger KeyboardE-X50 · Roland59↑ 4.7%$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 24
Yamaha PSR-F52 61-Key Home Portable KeyboardPSR-F52 · Yamaha · 2 finishes58↓ 10.5%$95€85$95€85Check ↗
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Startone MK-400Startone · 3 finishes56Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-SX600 61-Key Digital WorkstationPSR-SX600 · Yamaha54↓ 1.7%$782€699$782€699Check ↗
- 27
Startone BK-54Startone · 2 finishes53Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Startone BK-61Startone · 2 finishes53Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 29
Casio CT-S400 SetCasio · 2 finishes52↓ 7.9%$260€232$260€232Check ↗
- 30
Yamaha PSR-EW320 Deluxe BundleYamaha52Stable$432€386$432€386Check ↗
- 31
Yamaha PSR-E483Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 32
Yamaha PSR-A350 SetYamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$454€406$454€406Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-E583Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$546€488$546€488Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha HD-300 Harmony Director 61-Key KeyboardHD-300 Harmony Director · Yamaha50Stable$710€635$710€635Check ↗
- 35
Casio CT-X800 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-X800 · Casio · 2 finishes49Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 36
Roland GO:KEYS 5 GT Cover BundleRoland48Stable$519€464$519€464Check ↗
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Roland GO:KEYS 5 WH Cover BundleRoland48Stable$519€464$519€464Check ↗
- 38
Thomann AK-X1100Thomann · 4 finishes48Stable$621€555$621€555Check ↗
- 39
Casio CTK-240 61-Key Portable KeyboardCTK-240 · Casio · 2 finishes46Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
- 40
Startone MK-300Startone · 2 finishes46Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 41
Startone MKL-201Startone44↓ 4.8%$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 42
Startone MKR 62Startone43↓ 2.2%$49€44$49€44Check ↗
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Startone MKR 49 KidsStartone42Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 44
Startone MLK-201 SetStartone42↓ 1.3%$164€147$164€147Check ↗
- 45
Roland GO:KEYS 3 RD Cover BundleRoland41Stable$397€355$397€355Check ↗
- 46
Alesis Harmony 54 Portable KeyboardHarmony 54 · Alesis39Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 47
Hamaril Keyboard SetHamaril36↑ 0.5%$208€186$208€186Check ↗
Home Keyboards by the numbers
Measured across all 104 models we track, not a sample.
Median $290 — half of all home keyboards here cost less.
median of 34 models · 54–76
median of 102 models · 3 kg–8.35 kg
How to choose the best home keyboards
Key Action
It's the biggest deal. Weighted actions are ideal, but semi-weighted will do if the feel is good. A mushy action will kill your dynamics and articulation, making everything sound flat and lifeless - especially crucial if you're trying to nail those subtle nuances in a recording.
Sound Engine/Sounds
Don't expect a Jupiter-X level of realism, but decent piano, electric piano, and organ sounds are essential. Listen for how the sounds sit in a mix - do they cut through, or get lost in the mud? A little bit of grit or character can be a good thing, but avoid anything that sounds overly harsh or artificial.
Connectivity
MIDI in/out is a must for expanding your rig. USB MIDI is a bonus for direct connection to your DAW. Audio outputs - stereo is standard, but a separate line out can be a lifesaver for live sound reinforcement.
Build Quality
Let's be real, at this price point, corners will be cut. But a keyboard that feels flimsy or falls apart after a few gigs isn't worth the savings. Check the keybed, the chassis, and the overall construction - a little solidity goes a long way.
Polyphony
64 voices is generally the minimum you want these days. Anything less, and you'll be fighting with note stealing during denser chord progressions, which sounds terrible, especially in a recording situation.
Buying guide
Alright, so you want a decent keyboard for your home studio or gigging setup but you're not looking to remortgage the house? That's a totally reasonable goal. We've all been there, chasing that vintage Rhodes vibe on a budget. This list is about finding the best bang-for-your-buck keyboards under $800 - stuff that'll actually inspire you without leaving you eating ramen for a month.
At this price, you're making trade-offs. Key action is often the first thing to be compromised - don't settle for something that feels awful, even if the sounds are great. Don't be fooled by tons of sounds; a smaller, well-curated sound library is often better than a sprawling mess of mediocre patches.
Listen for how the keyboard responds to your playing - dynamics are key to making anything sound convincing.
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 104 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
Is a weighted action really worth the extra money?
Generally, yes. It's the biggest factor in realistic feel and expression, but if the budget is tight, a good semi-weighted action is acceptable, just be sure it has a responsive feel.
Can I record these keyboards directly into my DAW?
Most have USB MIDI, so you can trigger sounds from your computer. Some also offer audio outputs for direct recording, but the quality can vary.
What's the difference between a workstation and a digital piano?
Workstations usually have more sounds, sequencing capabilities, and effects. Digital pianos focus more on realistic acoustic piano sounds and often have better key actions - this price range blurs the lines a bit.
Are there any good alternatives to buying new?
Absolutely. The used market is your friend. You can often find higher-end models from a few years ago for significantly less than their original price. Just be sure to check the key action and overall condition.
What about sustain pedal compatibility?
Most use a standard 1/4" sustain pedal jack. Check the manual to confirm, but it's a pretty universal standard.
