So you’re ready to take the leap and buy a keyboard or piano for your wannabe musician? We know how hard it can be to start.
With so many options available and such a wide range of prices, you can easily grow overwhelmed.
That’s why we studied the market, tested the best products, and listened to feedback from hundreds of consumers. We discovered a wide range of keyboard pianos for all ages and skill levels to fit every purpose and budget.
Read on to learn more about what to look for and to read our reviews of the best keyboard pianos for kids.
- Wide range of features & modes
- Fun for all ages
- Folds flat
- Built-in recording studio
- Includes microphone with voice changer
- Non-toxic material
- Adjustable volume & tempo
- Comes with a stool
- 8 entertaining demo modes
- Built-in microphone
- Record and replay features
- Four musical genres
- Looks realistic
- Hardwood material
- Timelessly elegant design
- Good range of sounds and features
- 60 demo songs
- 61 key piano keyboard
- Waterproof
- Suitable for any age group
- Built-in battery or external power supply
- Various learning modes
- 100 tones and rhythms
- Built-in stereo
- Excellent for beginners
- Power supply included
- LCD display for guidance
How to Choose a Keyboard for Kids
What you need in a keyboard piano depends primarily on your child’s age. For a baby or toddler, start with something fun that features characters, music, and lights.
If your child is older and interested in pursuing this as a serious hobby, you’ll need to find a more advanced and long-lasting instrument. Here are some things to consider.
Mind the Keys
A traditional piano has 88 keys, which could be overwhelming and unnecessary for most kids starting out. For your young beginner, a keyboard that has between 25 and 61 keys is a good place to start.
We recommend trying to find one with keys similar to those on a regular piano so that your child can learn how to place and space their fingers properly.
Acoustic Versus Digital
Acoustic pianos don’t require electricity to make their wonderful sound. Inside the piano, there are felt-tipped hammers for each key. Every you press a key, the hammer will strike the appropriate string.
The acoustic piano is the classic option, and there are some reasons why they make a good starting point:
- It will give your child the authentic feel and tones of the piano.
- An acoustic piano can sustain a note for longer.
- It’s durable, and you can change or fix parts easily.
Digital pianos are electronic and more versatile, particularly for children. Almost all of them will have a variety of features and sounds you won’t find with the acoustic.
Some might have touch-sensitive keys, which means they make a louder or softer sound depending on how hard you press.
These are some reasons to consider a digital piano:
- It’s lightweight and can be moved if needed.
- There’s no tuning required, so it’s easy to maintain.
- Most come with a wide range of features.
- Cost: a digital piano will cost significantly less than an acoustic version.
Now that you know the difference, it might be easier to make a decision.
Features and Modes
Kids like to have fun. And a boring old piano that only makes that true piano sound might not be the most exciting learning tool for your child in the beginning.
You might want to consider finding a keyboard that can switch between instrument sounds or one that enables your child to record and replay their music. Some keyboards also have different rhythms your child can play along to.
Product Reviews
Here are 10 great pianos for kids to consider.
Keyboard Playmat 71
Best Piano Playmat
This keyboard is recommended for ages 1 and over.
We found this “keyboard” to be a motivational tool for babies learning to walk. Letting them play around on a “magical carpet,” with a new tune at every step, makes those first steps even more exciting.
The playmat has 24 keys to experiment with. If you have a toddler who gets bored quickly, you can change it up with the eight instrument sound options, including the violin, trumpet, banjo, and more.
There are also record, playback, and demo modes, so you can record your tot’s original dance tunes!
The playmat is made of a highly durable vinyl material that can take plenty of stomping. We love pulling it out for playdates and birthday parties, as it’s fun for kids to make music together.
Pros
- Durable material.
- A wide range of features and modes.
- Fun for all ages.
- It folds flat for easy storage.
- Includes volume control.
Cons
- Requires 4 AA batteries (not included).
- Keyboard resorts to the highest volume setting whenever you turn it on.
Our Ratings
Discover & Play Piano
The best way to help your newborn develop their senses of touch, hearing, and sight is through play.
As your little one reaches the babbling stage, they might love something to “goo and gah” along to. This keyboard has a few surprises, so don’t be fooled by its size.
Your baby will get to play around with animals, instruments, and numbers. Also, it features some classical tunes instead of the usual nursery rhyme songs. (Is anyone else so tired of hearing The Wheels on the Bus on repeat?)
Studies have shown that listening to classical music stimulates endorphin production in your child’s body (1).
We love that this piano toy is compact — about the same size as a magazine. You can easily fit it in your diaper bag to pull out whenever your baby needs a little distraction.
Pros
- Multi-textured toy includes soft keys.
- Compact size for easy travel.
- Classical music mode included.
- Includes batteries.
Cons
- The keyboard section only contains one key and one tone.
- Not so easy to clean between the gaps.
Our Ratings
VTech Record & Learn KidiStudio
Best Toddler Keyboard
If durability and functionality are as valuable to you as a fun time, pay attention. This keyboard has a built-in recording studio that allows your toddler to play and record their own music.
Your kiddie will also receive multiple mode options with this piano toy. The keyboard plays more than 40 songs and sound effects, including drums, a scratch disc, and a whammy bar. Your tot will also get to use their imagination while listening to jazz, techno, and rock and roll.
It also helps kids learn to play music as the correct keys light up to encourage your child to play along to the melody.
It’s made of non-toxic plastic, so you won’t have to worry too much if your child likes to use their sense of taste! The buttons are easy for small fingers to press, and it comes with three AA batteries.
This keyboard also includes a fun microphone with voice-changing functions, so your child can work on their full stage performance.
Pros
- Built-in recording studio.
- Soft keys.
- Includes a real microphone with voice-changing functions.
- Helpful lights teach kids to play along to the song melodies.
Cons
- The microphone has a quiet sound.
Our Ratings
Electronic Keyboard with Microphone
Best Toddler Keyboard with Microphone
Sometimes fun includes sacrifice — in this case, it might be your quiet time. This light-up keyboard gives your toddler 37 keys to play.
The keyboard sounds include piano (of course) plus many other instruments, such as the violin, trumpet, and even a music box. It also offers a range of animal sounds, such as a frog, cat, and dog.
Your child can play along to rock, samba, and six other rhythms, allowing them to create their own songs and beats. The playback feature lets them record and listen to their creations.
The built-in microphone includes a keyboard stand. A little stool is also provided, so your young musician can sit comfortably while playing.
Pros
- Adjustable volume and tempo.
- Comes with a stool.
- The microphone can be held by hand or on a stand.
- Available in two colors.
Cons
- Microphone and speaker can create feedback when they’re too close to each other.
- The microphone volume is loud and non-adjustable.
Our Ratings
Amy & Benton Piano
Best Budget Mini Piano
If you’re a person who likes to get the most out of your money, this multifunctional piano should appeal to you. It looks like a miniature grand piano, but it can do more than play piano tunes.
It has 24 keys, and your tot can choose between a variety of drums and other instruments. There’s also a music box and different rhythms, such as disco and tango.
You can adjust the volume as desired, and your child can play with the tempo. Your little one will also get to use their vocals and maybe even record a song using the built-in microphone.
It comes with a cable, so you can hook it up to a speaker or iPad. This enables your child to show off their skills, and you could even play along.
This piano requires four AA batteries and a 1.5-volt battery, so make sure you have those on hand before you set it up, or you’ll have a disappointed little musician.
Pros
- Built-in microphone.
- Record and replay features.
- Four musical genres.
Cons
- Advertised as suitable for 1-6 years, but is small and more suited to toddlers.
- Batteries aren’t included.
Our Ratings
Classic Wooden Miniature Grand Piano
Best Mini Grand Piano for Kids
If you want to give your child a gentle push in the musical direction, this mini piano might help. It looks very similar to a real grand piano, although this one only has 30 keys.
It comes with a stool and a music holder to make it even more like the full-size version. The stool is not adjustable, so smaller children might need an additional cushion or pillow.
The hardwood piano has an elegant glossy finish. You can also choose between a black, pink, or white version.
There are no extra features or sounds, and it only plays like a piano, but that shouldn’t be a bad thing. If you want to introduce your child to the art of music without distractions, this is a good way to go.
This piano is suitable for children ages 1 to 5 years and will help them prepare for piano lessons on a full-sized piano when they’re old enough.
Pros
- Looks realistic.
- Stool and music holder included.
- Made with durable hardwood.
- The 30 keys offer a nice range to play with.
Cons
- The tones sound “toy-like,” not quite like a standard piano.
- The stool is not adjustable.
Our Ratings
Plixio Electric Keyboard
Best Children's Beginner Keyboard
This electric keyboard is not just for kids; it can also be helpful for older beginners. It’s portable and light, so your child can bring it to school or music lessons. It functions with batteries, or you can plug it into an outlet for unlimited piano fun.
There are 54 keys for your child to get accustomed to; however, they are a little on the small side compared to a standard piano. Regardless, it’s a good way for your child to start learning notes and chord placement.
The electrical keyboard setting gives your budding musician 140 tones and rhythms to play along to and 60 demo songs. Your pianist can create amazing music, record it, then listen to and share it.
The keyboard also has a lesson mode that teaches your child the different notes and chords.
Pros
- Good range of sounds and features.
- 60 demo songs.
- 100 rhythms and 40 tones to play along to.
Cons
- It’s not easy to switch between the different modes.
Our Ratings
Lujex Foldable Keyboard
Best Portable Kids Piano Keyboard
If your child loves to play the piano anytime, no matter the location, this foldable keyboard makes it easy.
You can roll it up to fit in a backpack. The speakers are built-in, and your child can also insert headphones if they want to play without an audience.
The waterproof silicone makes it sturdy and durable.
You can even connect the keyboard to your computer using a “MIDI” cable — although you’ll have to purchase it separately. Then you can edit the music as you play or record it on the computer.
You might think that a foldable keyboard can’t be very realistic. However, there are 61 keys, very similar to a real piano. The feel, of course, won’t be the same, but it could be good for finger-placement practice.
There’s also a massive range of tones and rhythms to choose from and 40 demo tunes.
Pros
- Connects to a computer for production options.
- Waterproof silicone material.
- Suitable for musicians of any age.
- Built-in battery or uses an external power supply.
Cons
- Keys are sometimes unresponsive when pressed consecutively.
- The smooth surface makes it difficult to distinguish between keys.
Our Ratings
RockJam 54-Key Portable Electronic Keyboard
Best Learning Piano
Learning to play the piano well usually takes years. Your child has to stay focused to become proficient, but this piano might make it a little easier. It has 54 keys, and with learning mode on, your child will be guided by the LCD, which indicates the keys and chords to be played.
The keyboard allows you to plug in a phone or tablet with the Simply Piano app, which provides feedback on your playing and teaches notes and songs.
It could make the process of learning more fun. It might also be easier for children who struggle with the “traditional” way of learning the piano.
Pros
- Features LCD screen and learning app.
- Suitable for older children and adults.
- Works with outlet or batteries.
- Built-in headphone socket.
Cons
- Lightweight keys make it harder to adjust the tone.
- Not a fully authentic sound.
Our Ratings
RockJam Electronic Keyboard
Best Music Keyboard for Older Kids
Having a comfortable setting for your child to practice in can potentially make or break their interest. This keyboard comes with a padded stool and adjustable stand, so your child can play sitting down or standing. You can also take it off the stand and place it on a table.
The keyboard includes headphones, so your child won’t have to share their masterpieces until they’re ready. The noteholder can easily hold an iPad or smartphone.
The keyboard features 100 sounds, 100 rhythms, and 50 demo songs for your child to practice with.
RockJam offers a one-month free membership to the “Simply Piano” app, filled with songs to choose from. You will also receive two months of free face-to-face lessons via the app.
Pros
- Excellent for beginners.
- Power supply included.
- LCD display for guidance.
- The foldable stool and keyboard stand make for easy portability.
Cons
- The stool is not adjustable.
- Some reported that the keys are stiff.
Our Ratings
The Benefits of Learning Piano
Introducing your child to the piano is just one way to encourage creativity, but did you know there are many other benefits that learning an instrument can offer your child? We’ll delve into just a few of them.
Enhances Memorization
When learning the piano, your child will eventually remember which keys make what sounds. As your child ages, they will learn to memorize notes, chords, and scales. Maybe they’ll even put together a song to play for you.
Research shows that students who study music also achieve better grades in other subjects. Therefore, your child’s memory recall for other types of information can benefit from musical training (2).
Enhances Hearing Abilities
It might be obvious that learning to play the piano involves distinguishing between different musical tones. But as your child grows, their ability to process sound away from the piano can also increase.
This means it can boost your child’s reading and speaking abilities and maybe even assist them in learning a new language (3).
Increases Self-Esteem
More than anything in the world, your child wants to please you. Positive feedback about their musical accomplishments will surely leave them feeling proud.
This confidence can help in other endeavors as your child ages, such as speaking up in class without feeling shy or interacting with new people.
Develops Fine Motor Skills
Developing fine motor skills is necessary for children to complete daily functions independently as they grow older. Think about all the tasks that require controlled use of the hands and feet, from tying shoes to writing with a pencil.
In a study conducted by the University of Texas, two groups of children were monitored: one group who took piano lessons and another group who didn’t. The children who played the piano had much faster responses overall (4).
Tips for Teaching Kids to Play the Keyboard
1. Make It Fun
Games are an excellent option for getting young kids excited about playing a new instrument. You could also ask them to create their own melody and perform it for you or their friends.
2. Set Practice Times
Make a schedule for your child so they can keep track of their practice time and gain discipline in the process. Don’t forget to praise them for meeting these times.
A few things to consider:
- Other activities: Decide how many hours of practice a week are realistic for your child, along with their other hobbies and responsibilities.
- Start slowly: Build your child’s practice time slowly so they don’t suffer from burnout or lose interest early on.
- What it means to your child: Will piano be just a hobby, or is your child serious about playing? Encourage a balance between fun and discipline, and see where it takes them.
3. Listen to Your Child
Take note of your child’s cues. There will inevitably be music they love to play and music they do everything to avoid. Find songs your kiddo loves, making sure they are simple and easy to follow for young beginners.
4. Consider a Teacher
A piano teacher might be a good choice if you want your child to learn more. Piano lessons can help your child develop the skills necessary for reading and playing a wide range of music and can give them opportunities to perform and collaborate with other young musicians.
Piano for Kids FAQs
Does Piano Make Kids Smart?
Playing the piano can positively impact a child’s cognitive development, enhancing skills like memory, concentration, and problem-solving.
While it doesn’t necessarily make them ‘smarter’ in a traditional sense, it certainly contributes to their intellectual growth and offers a creative outlet.
Should a Child Learn on a Piano or a Keyboard?
A child can start learning on either a piano or a keyboard. A traditional piano offers the feel of real keys and sound dynamics, but a keyboard can be more practical and budget-friendly, often featuring various sounds and rhythms that can be engaging for children.
What Is the Difference Between a Digital Piano and a Keyboard?
A digital piano is designed to closely mimic an acoustic piano, but a keyboard tends to have lighter keys and a wider variety of sounds and features. For beginners, digital pianos can offer a more authentic piano experience.
How Long Does It Take for a Child to Learn How to Play a Piano?
The time it takes for a child to learn to play the piano varies. Basic proficiency can be achieved within a few months, but mastering the instrument is an ongoing journey. Regular practice, patience, and enjoyment of the process are key.
What Age Is Too Late to Learn a Piano?
It’s never too late to start learning the piano. While starting young can be beneficial, piano learning is accessible to all ages. Adult beginners can achieve a high level of skill with dedication and practice.
