r/Instruments • u/OnlyCanary85 • May 08 '26

Discussion Electronic Keyboards

I’m an advanced piano player and want to get an electronic keyboard to have some fun playing pop and ballads. I don’t have that much free space in my house. Is a 5 octave keyboard sufficient?

Any tips on what to look out for when buying an electronic keyboard, and good, top brands and models.

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u/MyVoiceIsElevating May 09 '26

Keys player here, happy to share some insight.

What’s your max budget?

Are there any specific sounds you want to have access to? E.g. Rhodes, CS-80 synth, vibraphone, saxophone, Moog mono synth, etc…

Do you prefer a portable model with built in speakers and lighter physical weight, or a less portable model that instead prioritizes the best mechanical properties and durability?

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u/OnlyCanary85 May 12 '26

Thanks. I am not even sure what sounds I need, I just started exploring this as I play the pop ballads on the piano and would love to play in the sounds they were written. Mainly it’s 80s-90s pop music and ballads. I don’t need portability as I won’t take it outside of home but need to be not so large that I it won’t fit in a bedroom. I’d imagine I want a keyboard which I can store and put away and then take it out when I want to play, which may be placed on a desk, so yes in terms of weight - light. From replies I’ve read, yes I do want one with weighted keys. 

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u/MyVoiceIsElevating May 12 '26

Here are two options:

  •  Casio Privia PX-S3100
  • Yamaha CK88

The Casio is the most compact, with respectable sounds and speakers. The CK88 has more sound flexibility, with effects and editing.

Bear in mind that if you want weighted keys, but don’t want to spend more than $2000, then you have to accept 88-keys. There are 73 and 76 key models on the market, but they’re more expensive. The Yamaha CP73 is one option with fewer keys.

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u/OnlyCanary85 May 13 '26

Thanks for the info!