AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Home Keyboards Under $800 2026
The top pick is Casio CT-S200 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard ($186). Yamaha PSR-E283 61-Key Portable Keyboard gives you the most for the money at $145. 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: November 3, 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 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 17Aug 17$222 now$222€198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Roland GO:KEYS 3 61-Key Music Creation Keyboard
GO:KEYS 3 TQ · Roland
53 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.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$362 now$362€323 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 17Aug 17$504 now$504€449 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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- 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 17Aug 17$237 now$237€211 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Casio CT-S300 Casiotone 61-Key Portable Keyboard
CT-S300 · Casio
35 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
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$191 now$191€170 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
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$409 now$409€365 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight8 kg
- Keys61 keys
The Korg EK-50 L is a solid choice for beginners, hobbyists, or those needing a portable, all-in-one entertainment keyboard. The built-in speakers are a real highlight, making it great for practice or casual performance without external amplification. It's perfect for someone wanting a wide range of sounds and styles in a compact, easy-to-use package.
Pros
- Powerful built-in speakers offer surprisingly robust sound for home use
- Velocity-sensitive keys provide expressive playing feel for a budget keyboard
- The joystick offers intuitive control over modulation and effects
Cons
- The 61-key design limits complexity for serious pianists
- Plastic construction, while lightweight, lacks premium feel and durability
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$492 now$492€439 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Weight4.4 kg
The PSR-E383 is a solid starter keyboard – a noticeable step up from the E373. It's great for absolute beginners or casual players wanting a wide range of sounds and styles on a portable, budget-friendly instrument. Don't expect pro-level features, but it's a fun and capable package for learning and jamming.
Pros
- Velocity-sensitive keys offer surprisingly expressive playing feel.
- Extensive sound library provides diverse musical exploration options.
- Built-in learning functions are genuinely helpful for beginners.
Cons
- 61-key design limits complex chord voicings and arrangements.
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium keyboard feel.
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 LK-S450 Casitone 61-Key Keyboard with Lighted KeysLK-S450 Set · Casio · 2 finishes67↓ 7.4%$296€264$296€264Check ↗
- 12
Casio CT-X3000 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-X3000 Set · Casio · 3 finishes67↑ 7.3%$331€295$331€295Check ↗
- 13
Casio LK-S250 Casiotone 61-Key Portable KeyboardLK-S250 · Casio · 2 finishes66Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 14
Casio CT-S500 Casitone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S500 · Casio · 3 finishes65Stable$302€269$302€269Check ↗
- 15
Casio CT-S100 Casiotone 61-Key KeyboardCT-S100 · Casio · 2 finishes64Stable$99€88$99€88Check ↗
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Casio CT-S1000V Casiotone 61-Key Vocal Synthesizer KeyboardCT-S1000V · Casio · 3 finishes64Stable$313€279$313€279Check ↗
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Yamaha EZ-310 61-Key Portable KeyboardEZ-310 · Yamaha61↓ 21.8%$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 18
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 · Yamaha61Stable$334€298$334€298Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha PSR-EW320 76-Key Portable KeyboardPSR-EW320 Set · Yamaha61Stable$358€319$358€319Check ↗
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Roland E-X50 61-Key Arranger KeyboardE-X50 · Roland61Stable$398€355$398€355Check ↗
- 21
Korg Pa300 61-Key Arranger WorkstationPA-300 · Korg · 2 finishes60Stable$672€599$672€599Check ↗
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Casio CT-S1WECasio · 6 finishes57Stable$230€205$230€205Check ↗
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Startone MK-201Startone · 3 finishes56Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-F52 61-Key Home Portable KeyboardPSR-F52 Set · Yamaha · 2 finishes56↓ 2.7%$121€108$121€108Check ↗
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Startone MK-400Startone · 3 finishes56Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
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Startone BK-54Startone · 2 finishes53Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
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Startone BK-61Startone · 2 finishes53Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-SX600 61-Key Digital WorkstationPSR-SX600 · Yamaha53Stable$784€699$784€699Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-EW320 Deluxe BundleYamaha52Stable$433€386$433€386Check ↗
- 30
Yamaha PSR-E483Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$398€355$398€355Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-A350Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$432€385$432€385Check ↗
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Yamaha PSR-E583Yamaha · 3 finishes51Stable$547€488$547€488Check ↗
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Yamaha HD-300 Harmony Director 61-Key KeyboardHD-300 Harmony Director · Yamaha50Stable$712€635$712€635Check ↗
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Casio CT-X800 61-Key Portable KeyboardCT-X800 · Casio · 2 finishes49Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
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Casio CT-S400Casio · 2 finishes48Stable$241€215$241€215Check ↗
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Roland GO:KEYS 5 GT Cover BundleRoland48Stable$520€464$520€464Check ↗
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Roland GO:KEYS 5 WH Cover BundleRoland48Stable$520€464$520€464Check ↗
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Thomann AK-X1100Thomann · 4 finishes48Stable$622€555$622€555Check ↗
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Casio CTK-240 61-Key Portable KeyboardCTK-240 · Casio · 2 finishes47Stable$95€85$95€85Check ↗
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Startone MK-300Startone · 2 finishes46Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
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Startone MKR 49 KidsStartone42Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
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Startone MKR 62Startone42Stable$49€44$49€44Check ↗
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Startone MKL-201Startone42Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Alesis Harmony 54 Portable KeyboardHarmony 54 · Alesis41Stable$89€79$89€79Check ↗
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Startone MLK-201 SetStartone41↑ 1.4%$165€147$165€147Check ↗
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Roland GO:KEYS 3 RD Cover BundleRoland41Stable$398€355$398€355Check ↗
- 47
Hamaril Keyboard SetHamaril36↑ 0.5%$209€186$209€186Check ↗
Home Keyboards by the numbers
Measured across all 102 models we track, not a sample.
Median $290 — half of all home keyboards here cost less.
median of 100 models · 3 kg–8.35 kg
median of 34 models · 54–76
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 102 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.
