At M. Steinert & Sons, New England’s premier piano dealer since 1860, we often hear this question:
“Should I start with a keyboard?”
Understanding the difference between keyboards and pianos is crucial for anyone beginning their musical journey. Whether you’re a parent buying for a child, an adult beginner, or an experienced pianist needing a flexible practice instrument, this guide will clarify your choices.
Acoustic Piano: Produces sound by felt hammers striking strings, which in turn vibrates a wood soundboard, creating rich, resonant tones. No electricity needed.
Keyboard: Uses electronic sound production and speakers to produce sound.
Pianos (Acoustic or Digital):
Designed with a balanced key weight that supports refined control and touch sensitivity, and often get lighter as you move up the keyboard. This realistic feel helps build proper finger strength and control.
Keyboards:
Usually have lighter keys and utilize springs to reset rather than counterbalance. Without this realistic feel, making it harder to transition to an acoustic piano later on.
Educational Insight:
For students taking formal lessons, weighted keys are highly recommended to build proper finger strength and dynamics control.
Keyboard: Lightweight, compact, ideal for small apartments or travel.
Piano: Acoustic pianos are heavy, require dedicated space, and are a permanent fixture in your home.
Piano: Requires regular tuning (2–4 times per year) and climate considerations.
Keyboard: No tuning needed; minimal maintenance.
Keyboard: Entry-level options from $100–$500.
Digital Piano: Typically $700–$3000 depending on realism and features.
Acoustic Piano: Ranges from a few thousand to six figures for premium grands like the Steinway Spirio.
No. While both are electronic, digital pianos aim to replicate acoustic piano feel and sound, with:
Keyboards, on the other hand, prioritize portability and sound variety over authentic piano action.
Consider these factors:
At M. Steinert & Sons, we guide customers to the right instrument for their goals – whether that is a Steinway grand, mid-range acoustic pianos such as Boston or Essex, or a Roland digital piano.
Some baby grands can fit in apartments—interestingly, a small 5'1" model often takes up no more space than an upright—but an upright or high-end digital piano may still be a more practical choice for many homes.
Yes. All acoustic pianos require tuning after delivery and stabilizing in your home’s climate. Pianos from M. Steinert & Sons are tuned before they leave our showroom and include a complimentary tuning in-home. We recommend this is completed a few weeks after the piano is delivered to allow it to settle into the new environment.
Baby grands have horizontal strings, a richer tone, and more control in the action; uprights are vertical and space-saving, ideal for smaller rooms.
Choosing between a keyboard and piano depends on your budget, goals, and commitment to playing. While keyboards offer affordability and flexibility, pianos—whether digital or acoustic—provide the authentic experience that inspires lifelong musical fulfillment.
👉 Schedule your free piano consultation today. Our expert consultants will guide you to the instrument that matches your space, aspirations, and budget – ensuring music remains an inspiring part of your life.