When looking at different electric keyboards to buy there are a number of things to consider depending on factors such as your level of experience and sophistication need in the instrument.
The most important thing to decide when purchasing electric keyboards is what size keyboard you want. The most common options are 49 keys, 61 keys, 76 keys and 88 keys, which is the standard number of keys on acoustic pianos. 49 key electric keyboards are suitable for a beginner or a musician who simply needs a midi keyboard to create effects on their tracks. In either case, 49 keys will eventually limit you as a musician and you are probably better off looking at 61 key electric keyboards. The main difference between 76 keys and 88 keys is price. 88 key electric keyboards are obviously the most expensive, but tend to cost around $150 more than a comparable 76 key model.
After you know which size keyboard you are looking to purchase, you can focus on other details of your electric piano keyboard. Another important thing to look out for is whether or not the keyboard has a keyboard pedal included. Keyboard pedals are incredibly common and useful in reproducing the sound qualities of a standard piano. The most popular types of keyboard pedals are sustain pedals, which are often included with electric keyboards. If a keyboard pedal is not included with the models you are looking at, it is not the end of the world. Great electric keyboard pedals can be purchased for under $50. Boss, Casio, Yamaha and M-Audio are amongst the most popular manufacturers of electric guitar pedals on the market.
Another question to ask when looking at electric keyboards is whether or not a warranty is attached. You want to be sure that there is a warranty attached! Electric keyboards can easily cost hundreds of dollars, if not thousands. You want to be sure that your product is protected with a warranty. It is standard practice that a warranty will be attached, but if there is not one included (or available for purchase with the keyboard), look elsewhere.
If you are on a tight budget but are interested in electric or digital keyboards, then you may want to consider looking into refurbished electric keyboards. Refurbished products are significantly cheaper, usually a couple hundred dollars cheaper than the same product if it were sold new. If you can find a refurbished electric keyboard with a warranty attached, then that is definitely something to consider.
Some of the best brands of electric keyboards include Casio, Yamaha, Roland and Korg. If you are looking at 61 key digital keyboards, then Yamaha offers one of the best options in the Yamaha PSR-E223. This model is includes a foot pedal and is currently being offered for $139.99. Korg electronic keyboards tend to be more expensive, but for an 88 key electric keyboard, you won’t find better value for the money than the Korg SP170. This keyboard ranges in price from $479-499 depending on which site you are looking at.