Do you ever feel lost staring at rows and rows of keyboards in a store or online? It’s like trying to pick one crayon from a giant box—so many colors, but which one is the *right* one for you? Choosing your very first keyboard, whether for school, work, or just fun, can feel surprisingly complicated.
Many beginners face the same problem. You hear words like “mechanical,” “membrane,” or “ergonomic,” and your head starts to spin! You worry about spending money on something you won’t like later. It’s frustrating when all you want is a comfortable tool to type on without the confusion.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through all the confusing jargon. We will break down exactly what you need to know about keyboards for beginners. By the end of this post, you will understand the basic types, what features really matter, and how to pick a keyboard that feels perfect for your hands and your budget.
Ready to find your ideal typing partner? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of keyboards and make your first choice an easy one!
Top Keyboard For Starters Recommendations
- The RockJam 5061 keyboard piano super kit includes a digital keyboard with 61 full-size keys giving you that traditional piano feel whilst maintaining a portable and compact design that can be powered by either mains (power supply included) or batteries
- This RockJam 5061 piano keyboard features a LED panel that both displays and engages the 200 rhythms, 200 tones, a teaching function, and 30 demo songs that are part of its functionality
- The RockJam 5061 electric piano has record and playback functionality allowing you to build layers to your sound and an aux input so you can play along to your favorite songs
- This music keyboard super kit package includes a keyboard stand that is sturdy in design and can be adjusted to suit keyboard piano players both young and old
- This electric piano keyboard super kit contains a padded seat that is easily folded and has a thick padded seat for hours of comfortable play
- The RockJam 561 keyboard piano super kit boasts a digital keyboard with 61 full-size keys, offering the authentic feel of a traditional piano within a compact, portable design, perfect for both beginners and seasoned musicians.
- This electric piano features a dynamic LCD display that provides access to 100 rhythms, 50 tones, teaching functions, and 30 demo songs, making it a versatile and engaging keyboard piano for all learning levels.
- Equipped with record and playback functionality, the RockJam 561 electric keyboard allows you to layer sounds and review your performances, enhancing your creativity and musical development.
- This impressive music keyboard set comes with a sturdy, adjustable keyboard stand and stool set, accommodating pianists of all sizes, from young beginners to experienced players.
- Additionally, the electric keyboard piano super kit comes with a padded, foldable seat for hours of comfortable play, along with headphones for private practice and piano note stickers and lessons from Simply piano to aid learning, making this RockJam keyboard a comprehensive and thoughtful gift for any aspiring musician.
- The RockJam 49 Key Keyboard Piano is a compact yet powerful keyboard that offers a complete learning experience with 49 full-sized keys, ideal for both beginners and young musicians.
- Equipped with a reliable power supply and a sheet music stand, this keyboard piano ensures that your child has everything they need to start playing right away.
- The included piano note stickers help kids quickly learn the notes, while the Simply Piano lessons provide step-by-step guidance, making this piano keyboard an excellent educational tool.
- With a variety of tones, rhythms, and demo songs, this music keyboard offers endless possibilities for creativity, making it more than just a kids piano.
- Lightweight, portable and with a battery powered option, the RockJam keyboard fits perfectly into any space, making it a versatile small keyboard that can be used at home, in lessons, or on the go.
- The RockJam 49 Key keyboard piano macaron range is living proof that good things come in small packages, these 49 key musical keyboards combine style, sound quality and functionality making it the ideal first keyboard piano.
- This electric piano is PACKED with features, 200 tones, 200 rhythms, 50 demos, and a record and playback function.
- The inbuilt stereo speakers on this electronic keyboard deliver a powerful 10 Watts of sound and comes with a headphone input so you can choose to perform with confidence or practice in privacy all without the fear of disturbing others.
- Additional inputs and outputs on this digital piano include an Aux input so you can play along to your favourite songs, and an additional 3.5mm input for a microphone.
- To complement this keyboard piano, you will receive piano note stickers, and exclusive content from Simply Piano, an IOS and Android application that will help you learn your favourite songs in addition to the piano playing fundamentals.
- 3 TEACHING MODES: 3-Step Intelligent Teaching helps novice beginners learn by mimicking with One-Key, Follow, and Ensemble modes
- CUSTOMIZABLE SOUND: Draw inspiration from the 24 demo, then use the 255 timbre options to create different sounds and the 255 rhythms to accompany your melody along with 32 percussion sounds
- ULTIMATE BUNDLE: With an H-style keyboard stand, music stand, power adapter, padded stool, LED screen, recorder with playback, it makes for the perfect birthday or holiday present for any aspiring musician
- QUALITY SOUND: Perform a recital with built-in speakers, headphones, a rhythm programmer, and music player function that help to find the perfect sound and re-create classic music pieces
- MICROPHONE INCLUDED: Plug in and play along to songs stored on a USB and let your creative side out as you sing along with your microphone headset; OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 33"(L) x 15.5"(W) x 33.5-37.5"(H) (With Stand)
- The RockJam 49 Key keyboard piano macaron range is living proof that good things come in small packages, these 49 key musical keyboards combine style, sound quality and functionality making it the ideal first keyboard piano.
- This electric piano is PACKED with features, 200 tones, 200 rhythms, 50 demos, and a record and playback function.
- The inbuilt stereo speakers on this electronic keyboard deliver a powerful 10 Watts of sound and comes with a headphone input so you can choose to perform with confidence or practice in privacy all without the fear of disturbing others.
- Additional inputs and outputs on this digital piano include an Aux input so you can play along to your favourite songs, and an additional 3.5mm input for a microphone.
- To complement this keyboard piano, you will receive piano note stickers, and exclusive content from Simply Piano, an IOS and Android application that will help you learn your favourite songs in addition to the piano playing fundamentals.
- Compact - Electric keyboard piano, featuring 61 keys, perfect for helping new piano students of all ages develop their finger strength and dexterity
- Massive Sound Library - 300 inspiring built-in sounds with the ability to layer or split 2 sounds and sustain/vibrato FX, 300 accompaniment rhythms with auto-chord functions, and 30 demo songs
- Everything You Need to Start Today - Including a full-back sheet music/tablet stand, power adapter, and access to online piano lessons from Skoove and Melodics
- Fun Practice Features - Built-in metronome; Record Mode for revisiting your practice sessions; Accompaniment Rhythm Mode that instantly generates play-along songs from 300 different genres
- Ready to Travel - Melody 61 is lightweight (6.6 lbs/3 kg) and easy to carry, and can be powered via (6) AA batteries (not included) for when you're ready to bring the show on the road
- All-Inclusive Kit-The DEK-610S Piano Keyboard Kit includes an easy-to-assemble keyboard stand, an adjustable-height bench, a sheet music stand, a microphone, and a power adapter. It provides everything you need in one package
- Unlimited Possibilities-With 32-note polyphony, 249 voices, 249 rhythms, 50 demo songs, and 3 teaching functions, you can unleash your creativity and enjoy band performances
- HD Display-The 61-key beginner keyboard piano features an LCD display panel that shows the current functions and operations
- Practice Makes Perfect-The "Record" feature allows you to capture your performances for timely correction. The headphones with a 3.5mm jack enable private practice
- Superior Sound & Portability-Equipped with two built-in 10W speakers, the DEK-610S electric piano delivers room-filling sound. Its slim piano body makes it portable and perfect for indoor or outdoor activities
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding Your First Perfect Keyboard
Starting your computer journey means you need a good keyboard. A keyboard is your main tool for typing. This guide helps beginners choose the best one without feeling lost in all the options.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you buy your first keyboard, some features really matter for a good start.
Size and Layout
- Full-Size (104/105 Keys): This is the standard. It includes the number pad (the block of keys on the right). It’s great if you enter lots of numbers for school or simple work.
- Tenkeyless (TKL – About 87 Keys): This version removes the number pad. It saves desk space. Many people like this size because it lets you move your mouse more freely.
- Compact (60% or 65%): These are very small. They remove the number pad and often the arrow keys or function keys. Beginners usually find these harder to use at first.
Connection Type
- Wired (USB): These plug directly into your computer. They are very reliable and never need batteries. This is often the best choice for starting out because it is simple.
- Wireless (Bluetooth or Dongle): These connect without wires. They keep your desk tidy. Make sure they have good battery life.
Switch Type (For Mechanical Keyboards)
If you see “mechanical” keyboards, they have different internal “switches” under each key. They feel better than standard cheap keyboards.
- Clicky Switches (e.g., Blue): These make a loud “click” sound when pressed. They feel very satisfying.
- Tactile Switches (e.g., Brown): These give a small bump feeling when the key registers. They are quieter than clicky switches.
- Linear Switches (e.g., Red): These press down smoothly without any bump or click. They are the quietest option.
2. Important Materials Used
The materials used affect how long your keyboard lasts and how it feels.
Keycaps (The Tops of the Keys)
- ABS Plastic: This is the most common and cheapest material. Over time, the letters might wear off, and the keys can get shiny from finger oils.
- PBT Plastic: This is a stronger, higher-quality plastic. PBT keycaps resist shine and wear much better. They feel rougher, which many typists prefer.
Keyboard Frame/Case
The body of the keyboard is usually made of plastic or metal.
- Plastic Cases: These are light and affordable. They are perfect for a starter keyboard.
- Aluminum or Metal Cases: These are heavy and feel very solid. They are usually found on more expensive, premium keyboards.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality means a keyboard lasts longer and feels better to use.
Quality Boosters:
- Hot-Swappable Sockets: This feature lets you pull out a switch and replace it without soldering. This greatly improves future customization options.
- Durable Switches: Look for switches rated for 50 million keystrokes or more.
- Good Stabilizers: These keep large keys (like the Spacebar or Enter key) from wobbling when you press the edge.
Quality Reducers:
- Membrane Switches: Most very cheap keyboards use these. They feel mushy and don’t offer good feedback. They wear out faster.
- Non-Removable Cables: If the wire breaks, you must replace the whole keyboard.
- Cheap Plastic: Thin plastic cases can flex or creak when you type hard.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about what you will use the keyboard for the most.
Typing Experience
If you type long documents for school reports, you need switches that feel comfortable for hours. Tactile switches often provide the best balance for general use—they feel good without being too loud for shared spaces.
Gaming
Gamers need fast response times. Wired keyboards usually offer the lowest latency (delay). Mechanical switches are preferred by gamers because they register presses very quickly.
Portability
If you move your keyboard between home and a coffee shop, a TKL or compact wireless keyboard is better. Lighter keyboards are easier to carry.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Keyboard Starters
Q: Should I get a mechanical or a membrane keyboard?
A: Mechanical keyboards feel better and last longer. They are slightly more expensive, but beginners usually enjoy the better typing feedback they provide.
Q: Do I need a number pad?
A: If you frequently type long lists of numbers (like for accounting or spreadsheets), yes. If you only browse the internet or write essays, a TKL (no number pad) saves desk space.
Q: What is “key rollover” (NKRO)?
A: Key rollover means the keyboard can correctly register many keys pressed at the same time. For normal typing, 6KRO is fine. For fast gaming, look for N-Key Rollover (NKRO).
Q: How loud will a mechanical keyboard be?
A: It depends on the switch. Linear (Red) switches are quietest. Clicky (Blue) switches are the loudest. Brown switches are a good middle ground.
Q: Is wireless okay for a first keyboard?
A: Yes, wireless is fine for general use. Just make sure you charge it regularly. Wired is still best if you play competitive games where every millisecond counts.
Q: What is the standard size for a keyboard?
A: The standard full-size keyboard has 104 or 105 keys. Most starter guides focus on the 87-key TKL size as the best balance.
Q: How do I clean my new keyboard?
A: First, unplug it. Turn it upside down and gently shake out loose crumbs. Use a can of compressed air to blow out dust between the keys. You can wipe the keycaps with a slightly damp cloth.
Q: What does “actuation force” mean?
A: Actuation force is how much pressure, measured in grams, you need to press a key down far enough for the computer to register the letter.
Q: Are expensive keyboards worth it for a beginner?
A: Not immediately. Buy a mid-range mechanical keyboard first. You get great quality without paying for features you might not use yet.
Q: What does RGB lighting do?
A: RGB lighting means the keys light up in different colors. It is mostly for looks, though some people use it to highlight important gaming keys.