10 Best 76-Key Weighted Keyboards – Reviews & Buying Guide
We are going to take a look at weighted keyboards in this article. We want you to have all the knowledge you need to succeed when buying your next 76-key keyboard. You should know some basic information and we will talk about that below. We also want you to have some options available to you to pick from.
Stay tuned, no pun intended, for more information about weighted keyboards!
10 Best 76-Key Weighted Keyboards (2022 Update)
You will find that all these keyboards have fit the list based on the criteria listed below in the buyer’s guide. We want to provide you with a few options so that when you are in the market for a keyboard, you know which ones are the best ones.
1. Casio WK-6600
You will love that this keyboard has many features and is portable. It is affordable as well. You will find that it offers over 800 tones and has over 250 rhythms preset when you purchase it. It even features the ability to record audio.
Features:
- 820 Tones
- Built-In Sliders for Drawbar
- Easy to Travel With
- AC Adapter
- USB Port
- Pitch Bend
Pros:
You will find that there are many different tones that you can customize to fit your needs and music style. This will help you when you are transporting this keyboard as well. Your music is not going to be like everyone else’s. You will also find that this keyboard is portable, and you do not need any special programs to install it when you hook it up to your computer!
Cons:
If we look at this keyboard, we have found that there is not much wrong with it. Some people have found that they think the keys are cheaply made. However, other than that, people love this keyboard.
2. Yamaha PSR-EW310 Keyboard
This product is a great keyboard for beginners. It has HOST and USB along with MIDI connectivity. This will allow you to easily capture your music. This keyboard is great as well because it is portable. It only weighs around twenty pounds. It is also great for beginners because you can interface and be creative or learn with apps on your computer or iOS.
Features:
- Smart Chords (Simple to Complex Music)
- Realistic Acoustic Sounds
- Power Adapter Sold Separate
Pros:
You will find that this keyboard is going to be great for both beginners and experts. It will feature many sounds and rhythms that you can utilize. It is quite easy to use and very lightweight. This means that you can take it wherever you want without hassle. Plus, the sound on the instrument is great as well.
Cons:
The problem that we found with this is that the power adapter for the keyboard is sold separately from the keyboard. This is not terrible. However, if you would like to purchase this keyboard, make sure you purchase a power adapter. If you do not purchase a power adapter, you may find yourself out of luck.
3. Yamaha NP32
This keyboard is going to have 76 keys that are rated GST or Graded Soft Touch. This will allow you to have a softer touch while playing. It has many different ways to allow you to connect and interact. This version has a feature to record, longer battery, and features a polyphony of 64 notes.
Features:
- 19.6 Pounds
- Available in Black
- Powered by Battery
Pros:
We have taken a look at some of the best reviews of this product, and we have found that people love the keyboard for these reasons. We have found the top three that were mentioned most often. This included that the battery life is amazing. It is quite simple to use and navigate, even as a beginner. You can use this keyboard with apps on your phone or your computer with ease.
Cons:
As you know, there are always going to be some downfalls to a product. This product does not have many, but we have found a few that people have mentioned. These two seem to have been mentioned more than anything else.
- Keys Wear Quickly if Used Often
- Sound Issues (Occasionally)
4. Roland Fantom
You will love this as it is a weighted synthesizer board. It will be easy to use, even for beginners, because it has modes that are easy for everyone to understand. You can use his keyboard just about anywhere.
Features:
- 16 External/Internal MIDI Tracks
- 39 Pounds
- Several Connecting Ports
Pros:
Taking a look at this, we have found many pros to this keyboard. It is going to allow you to have endless possibilities when performing. It will allow you to express your music through this keyboard and synthesizer. You do not need modes with this as it will make things confusing. All you need is this keyboard, and your workflow will seem much easier.
Cons:
If you take a look at this keyboard, you will notice that it is more expensive. That is because it is also a synthesizer as well. This keyboard is going to cost more, however, you can do more on it. This is the only downfall that we could find about this keyboard.
5. Roland JUNO-DS
You will find that this keyboard is available in both 61 keys and 76 keys. We are going to be talking about the 76-key keyboard at this moment. Take the time to look at what we found.
Features:
- 20 Pounds
- Synth Action
- Compact
Pros:
You will love this keyboard because it will be easy for you to operate. You can even download different sounds onto the keyboard. It will allow you to make beautiful sound. You will be able to express yourself with its pro sounds and many performance features. Not to mention, it is battery-powered.
Cons:
We have done some research and have found only one major issue. This issue is that after a year or so of owning and playing it, the keyboard will detune itself. You will have to ensure your piano is tuned right before a performance.
6. Nord Stage 3 HP
This is going to be a hammer-action keyboard. It will feature many LED displays so that you can see easily when performing with it. The piano section of this keyboard has been enhanced with many programs and sounds.
Features:
- LED Lights for Performing
- 27 Pounds
- 2 GB Memory
Pros:
This keyboard is one that will allow you to perform at your best. It will have OLED display lights that will allow you to clearly see when on stage. There is double the memory than the original model as well. It now features 2GB of memory. There is also over 100 polyphony voices and filters.
Cons:
Many people have found that this keyboard does not have a silent play. This keyboard has keys that do make noise when they are played. This is not something someone wants if they are spending this much on a keyboard. Another issue we have found is that it is more on the expensive side.
7. Yamaha NP32B
You will find that we have the Yamaha NP32 above in our list, these are both great keyboards and that is why we have included both in our selection.
Features:
- Black
- Electric Cord (Power Source)
- 55 x 6 x 14 Inches
Pros:
We have found that this piano is great for those who want to learn the skill. It is a great keyboard that will allow you to use many different programs. These programs are available to be downloaded as well so you can learn and play.
Cons:
You will notice that this is just the keyboard. You will need to purchase a stand separately. Many people state that putting it on a table is just too high for them to be able to comfortably play the instrument. Purchasing a stand separately may help you with this issue.
8. Roland FA-07
You will find that you can purchase this in three key options. We are going to focus on the 76-key option here. It is going to be lightweight and allow you to work in all areas with its backlit pads. It will be a great keyboard for performing as well.
Features:
- 18.7 Pounds
- 48.46 x 12.24 x 4.21 Inches
- USB Ports
Pros:
You will find that this board is reimagined. It will allow you to be as creative as you want anywhere you want. It is very lightweight and has many colors. This means that you can be the life of the party. You can import sounds and make updates if needed.
Cons:
We have looked at some reviews and found that some people have issues with the display screen after they have used it for about a year. No one really has any issues with this keyboard until it is about a year old. Once that happens, sometimes issues occur with the display screen.
9. Yamaha PSR-EW300
We do have the updated version of this keyboard on the list as well. However, this keyboard is great too! Yamaha produces great keyboards. This is a lightweight keyboard that will be great for those who are wanting to learn or teach someone else.
Features:
- 13.7 Pounds
- Keyboard Only
- 45.35 x 14.53 x 4.65 Inches
Pros:
You will find that this keyboard will provide you with the sound you are looking for. It is lightweight and you will be able to carry it wherever you will need to. Plus, it has many different modes that you can learn or teach someone else.
Cons:
This keyboard will use two AA batteries to operate. However, you can purchase a power adapter separately. You do not need a power adapter to make this keyboard work, however, it may be nice as batteries may not last long.
10. Casio WK6500
This product is going to be made by Casio. It will be around twenty-five pounds and feature over 600 programs and tones. You will love that you can even plug in a microphone as well.
Features:
- 670 Programs/Tones
- 10 Tones
- 200 Rhythms
Pros:
You will find that there are many tones that you are going to love. These tones make it easy to customize your sound and create music that is unique. It will also feature programs that allow you to learn and add to your music as well. If you are a singer, you will love that you can plug in a microphone to this keyboard.
Cons:
We have found that there are a few kinks in some of the keyboards that are sent out. Sometimes some of the keys do not work when shipped. However, it can be returned, and you can get a new one. This is more of a manufacturing issue than an issue with the piano itself.
People Also Ask
Is it hard to learn and can I learn by myself?
Many people have asked if learning to play a piano or keyboard is hard, well the answer is maybe. You can learn it by yourself; however, you need to determine your goals and expectations. You are not going to be an expert at playing the keyboard overnight. Keep in mind that a keyboard or piano is going to be easier to learn than other instruments.
The biggest thing when learning to play is practice. You need to keep practicing so that you can play as best as possible.
How Long Does It Take to Master Keyboard/Piano?
If you are learning yourself or with someone else, the time may differ. If you are learning from an expert, you may find that it will take about eight years to master it. If you are learning yourself, you may find that it takes ten or more years.
Everyone has a different skillset and learning ability. You need to take all this into consideration when you are thinking about learning to play the keyboard.
When Can a Child Start Learning?
Many people want to have their child learn piano or keyboard as soon as possible, however, when is it too soon to start your child. You may start your child as early as six years or as late as nine. However, you can learn as late as you would like. It is never too late to start learning how to play keyboard.
Keep in mind that kids as young as three or four may show interest in the piano. It is at that time that you can consider putting them in lessons.
Casio or Yamaha?
This is the common debate that most people have. You will find that both of them are going to have similar features and prices. However, there are a few noticeable differences that we have found. You will notice that a Yamaha will have softer keys compared to the stronger-feeling Casio keys.
You will also notice that the Yamaha keys are going to be more durable and have less noise than that of a Casio. Yamaha generally will be more sleek-looking and have a professional look.
Is Wireless or Wired Better?
As you know, there are different power sources available for keyboards. Some of them will run with a direct power source to the wall, while others will run on a battery. All you need to do is charge this battery and you are good to go.
Some keyboards will use regular batteries. When you use regular batteries, the charge will not be held as long. Also, when you charge a keyboard, you need to make sure that you know how long the battery holds a charge.
Depending on your needs, you will determine what is best for you. If you are out performing for many hours, you may decide that a wired keyboard would be better. If you are someone who simply dabbles on the go, batteries may be better. However, having one with multiple charging or powering options will be the best bet.
How Many Keys Do I Need?
If you are like other people, you may be wondering why there are so many keys. You may also be wondering why there are many key options. If you are a beginner, you would ideally use a smaller key count keyboard. However, if you want to eventually learn traditional piano, you would like to opt for a larger-keyed keyboard.
Keep in mind that a traditional piano or keyboard has 88 keys. This will allow you to play all music with all different notes. Some types of music will only work on certain keyboards if there are not 88 keys.
What use Weighted Keys?
You will find that people who utilize weighted keys are going to be better at playing and learning the piano or keyboard in the long haul. When you put a child on a weighted keyboard, they are going to have increased finger strength. This will help them as they advance in their playing.
Keep in mind that not using weighted keys is going to be easier to play when you first start, however, if you ever transition to a weighted keyboard or piano, it may be a nightmare to play. It would be easier to start on a weighted keyboard than a non-weighted keyboard.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Keyboard
When you are thinking about purchasing a keyboard, it is important that you look at a few things. There are a few things that make a keyboard a keyboard. There are a few things that will allow you to better know what you are looking for when searching for a new keyboard.
We have taken the time to list all the things that we have taken into consideration when putting items on our list. These items had a significant impact on choosing the keyboards that have made our list. Let us not wait any longer, let us take a look at the things that you should know when purchasing a keyboard.
Key Count
When you are purchasing a keyboard, you will notice that there is different availability for keys. Generally, you will find ones in 61,76, 88 keys. The smaller keyboards are designed for beginners to learn; however, the larger ones are for those who are intermediate.
You will most often find that a regular piano will have 88 keys. If you are smart, you will start with a 76 or 88 key keyboard so that you know how to play properly.
Key count is important because you need to know what is best for you. If you are a beginner, you might find that a smaller keyboard will be easier. You will be able to find the keys easier and navigate the keyboard easier. Keep in mind that certain types of music cannot be played on anything except an 88-key keyboard.
Age
When you are purchasing a keyboard for someone, you need to make sure that it is tuned to their age. You should not purchase a giant keyboard for a child. You also need to keep in mind if your child plans to continue playing or if this is a phase. Keyboards are not always cheap.
If you are purchasing for a child, fewer keys will be better. If you are purchasing for a beginner adult, a 78-key keyboard is going to be great.
Take the time to learn more about your keyboards and the number of keys. Those who are not familiar with a keyboard would prefer a keyboard that has fewer keys. However, if you are wanting to learn piano or keyboard for music purposes, you will want at least a 76-key keyboard.
It is also important to take age into consideration when you are going to decide if it is worth it to get a certain keyboard. You will want to ensure that they are going to follow through with the lessons. Keep in mind that lessons are not going to be cheap. That is why this is something you need to take into consideration if you have a child who is wanting to learn how to play the keyboard.
Modes
When you are purchasing a keyboard, you need to make sure it has all the modes that you need. Depending on your skill level and what type of keyboard you decide to purchase, make sure it has all the modes you need. There are modes for just about everything.
Output
You want to make sure that you can connect your keyboard to different apps or your computer. The keyboard that you purchase should be compatible with what you have. If it is not, you have wasted money on a keyboard. The keyboards connectivity allows you to add sounds and make better music. It will also allow you to download different programs as well.
You will find that there are many different options. You will find some have USB, some have MIDI, and there are more available options. Taking the time to determine what source you need is going to be a huge benefit because you will not have to purchase a special adapter if you are aware of what you have.
Power Source
You need to make sure that you know what you are going to use the keyboard for. Taking the time to know what you need will help you. Some keyboards rely on electricity from an outlet, while others will rely on batteries. Simply charge the battery and you are good to go. However, you need to make sure you know how long the charge lasts.
Lastly, we have keyboards that are going to run on regular batteries. These generally do not hold a charge awfully long when using a keyboard.
Price
Even if you are the most advanced keyboard player, you do not need the most advanced equipment to make music. Just because there are more expensive keyboards available, that does not mean that you need to buy them. There are keyboards available for reasonable prices with all the same features as those of an expensive one.
It is also important to consider price if you are going to purchase for a child. We know that children change their hobbies fast. That is why you do not always need the most expensive. Even if you are purchasing it for yourself, ensure it has all your needs before you spend an arm and a leg. If it has all the features and high-quality reviews, go for it!
Conclusion
You are now presented with all the information you need to know in order to purchase a keyboard. You know the benefits of purchasing a weighted keyboard over a non-weighted keyboard. You also know how to work with children who are interested in learning the keyboard as well.
We hope we have answered all your questions in the commonly asked questions section. We also hope that you know what to look for when you are in the market for a keyboard. Take all these items into consideration when you are in the market for a keyboard.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article and we hope that you found all this information helpful. We also hope that you can purchase a keyboard knowing that you have made the right decision.
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About the Author Linda Ritter
Linda Ritter is a passionate pianist and a songwriter for more than 7 years. With a Masters in Music, she has explored the world of music and has collaborated with several musicians and brands like Roland, Tune Core, and plenty of blogs.
