Buying your first piano can be a little nerve-wracking. You want quality and affordability. And let’s face it, you don’t know what you don’t know. What makes a piano “the best?”

What if there was a series of tips you could follow to help you find the best pianos for beginners? What would it include? How could it help you? 

After decades in the business, we thought we’d put together a few tips to help you navigate this new frontier. Finding the best piano to start your new venture doesn’t have to be complicated. Just keep a few things in mind. 

Budget wisely. Even just a few minutes of researching pianos will tell you they range from free to tens of thousands of dollars. There must be a difference, right? There is. If someone is giving away a piano for free, there’s a reason for it. Most likely, it sat neglected in a corner for years, gathering dust and losing quality. Do you really want someone else’s problems? Have a budget in mind when you shop, and adjust it as you see what’s available. Better quality means better playability. 

Consider space. Pianos come in all shapes and sizes, from small, portable digital pianos to the largest concert grand pianos. What’s right for you? The best pianos for beginners should be determined by what’s best for you to suit your needs. You’re more likely to play if you get one suitable for your situation.  

Touch and feel. Yes, every piano feels different to the touch. As a beginner, you might not understand what that means, but you can quickly find out by visiting a piano dealer and having them show you a few pianos. You can hear it in the sound and feel it in the touch. 

Digital vs acoustic. Nostalgia says an old-fashioned acoustic piano will give you the basis for playing the piano. But it’s more than that. The reason acoustic pianos are so versatile is because of the skills they give you. Of course, sometimes it makes sense to add digital capabilities. Do you want to share your songs with the world? Digital can make it possible. 

Weighted keys. We bring this up because beginners often fall into the trap of buying an electric keyboard without thinking about the consequences. Piano keys are weighted to spring into action as you play. It’s a feeling that helps you get better over time. Keyboards often don’t come with that, which makes it more challenging to transition to acoustic pianos when the time is right. Invest in the right piano from the start to build your skills over time. 

Pedals. Yes, pedals do impact your playing style. You might not use them in your first few months, but having them available can transform the way you play. Don’t avoid them because you don’t have them; ensure you have the tools for the job.

Sound quality. Every piano you try will sound different. Keep in mind it will have different tonal qualities depending on the room you choose to place it in. This keeps you motivated to play – pay attention to what sounds good to you. 

Built-in features. Are you looking for something specific? Want to be able to play while wearing headphones? Looking for a way to record? Consider your possibilities before you finalize your selection. 

Brand reputation. Some brands have stood the test of time because of their craftsmanship and reliability. Don’t lose sight of quality if you’re in this for years of enjoyment. That’s where we can help you understand the differences between brands and learn what’s important to you.  

Recommendations and reviews. This is a big purchase. Spend some time getting to know more about the piano you’re considering. You can read reviews and recommendations on the manufacturer’s site, or get to know the piano dealer you’ll be working with to complete the sale. The more you learn, the more comfortable you’ll be with your final choice. 

Have additional questions? We can help. Stop by or give us a call today.