In comparison to buying an 88-key model, a 61-key keyboard can be a good choice for beginners because it’s big enough for two-handed playing, but takes up less space. In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the best 61-key keyboards from top brands, such as Casio and Yamaha. While some are better suited for beginners, others are more suitable for intermediate players.

Casio CT-X700

Our best 61-key keyboard is the Casio CT-X700. There is a vast range of Casio products, and the brand is prolific. It’s no surprise that the best Casio 61-key keyboard tops our list.

This keyboard provides a good balance between intermediate and beginner models. You will like its features if you’re new to keyboards, as well as its portability and ease of use. Despite this, the strong tones make it a popular choice for slightly more advanced players, too.

Top 8 Best 61-Key Electronic Keyboards 2022

Last Updated on January 8, 2021 By Mark

A 61-key keyboard can be a good option for beginners, it’s big enough for two handed playing, but saves on space and money when compared to buying an 88-key model. We’ve reviewed some of the best 61-key keyboards in this article from top brands including Casio and Yamaha. Some have great features for beginners, some are better for intermediate players.

Here are the best 61-key keyboards 2022:

1. Casio CT-X700
2. Alesis Recital 61
3. Roland GO:KEYS
4. Costzon 61-Key
5. Yamaha PSR-E463
6. RockJam RJ361
7. The ONE Light
8. Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII

Casio CT-X700

We’ve named the Casio CT-X700 our best 61-key keyboard. The Casio brand is prolific and they have a very big range. It’s not a big surprise that the best Casio 61-key keyboard is the top of our list overall.

This keyboard gives a good balance between intermediate and beginner model. It has some very good features if you’re new to keyboard, and it is portable and easy to use. However, the strength of the tones make this a popular choice for slightly more advanced players, too.

What we like (and don’t like) about the Casio CT-X700:

• With the Casio keyboard, you can play along with 600 different tones and 195 rhythms.
• With this keyboard, you can control your virtual instruments or DAW through USB-MIDI.
• Private practice is possible with a headphone output.
• Touch-sensitive keys simulate the sound of an acoustic piano.
• With a power adapter, it can be used with battery power or mains power.
• A six-track recorder and beginner’s lessons are included.

• Because the touch sensitivity does not have a hammer action, it does not feel as realistic as some models.
• The controls aren’t as intuitive as they could be.

This keyboard is one of the best for composing and learning to play due to its wide range of sounds and multi-track recorder. It even comes with Casio lessons. The Casio CT-X700 keyboard has weighted keys, but if you aren’t that concerned about this feature, it might be a good idea to go with a portable, simple keyboard instead. It’s one of the best Casio keyboards available in 2022.

Alesis Recital 61

Keyboards made by Alesis are excellent. With its top-notch features and functions, this keyboard is among the best on the market. With its semi-weighted keys, this might be the perfect 61-key option for those who are used to the feel of an acoustic piano. It is similar to playing a traditional piano.

It also has some good tech and connectivity features, so it is a good option for people who would like to use it as a central hub for their studio, as well.

What we like about the Alesis Recital 61 (and what we don’t like):

• Semi-weighted keys and an adjustable touch sensitivity so you can set to your own preference.
• 10 premium sounds including acoustic piano and organ.
• Comes with inbuilt effects including reverb and chorus.
• Two powerful 20W speakers make this one of the loudest on the list.
• You can use the power adapter or batteries.
• Contains free TakeLessons lessons and learning modes, including split and “lesson” modes.

• It would be better if there were more sounds than the inbuilt ones.
• If the power outlet is far away, the power cord is a little short for some people, which is annoying.

I like the way the power of the speakers and the quality of the sampled sounds make this feel like a premium product. This is a top-rated model of 61-key keyboard that isn’t too pricey.

In addition to being a good choice for beginners, it’s also a good choice for pianists looking for something portable. This is the best 61-key weighted keyboard on our list.

Roland GO:KEYS

Roland is known to provide high-tech solutions, and the GO:KEYS 61-key keyboard provides a lot of functionality in a very small package. It can be used by all types of musicians to create full compositions as well as play chords and melodies.

Roland keyboards are favored by people who want a keyboard that can easily connect to their devices. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily connect to computers, tablets, and other devices.

Roland’s GO:KEYS: What we like (and don’t like):

• Connect your tablet, phone, or laptop with Bluetooth support for audio and midi.
• Adding effects and changing the character of sounds is easy with one-touch control.
• Includes 500 sounds, including many Roland synth sounds.
• The Loop Mix mode allows you to drop loops in and out by playing notes, great for composing, recording and performing.

• The keys don’t feel very realistic compared to an acoustic piano. This is not an issue for everyone, but it can be a big problem for piano players.
• Compared to some of the comparable models, this model is more expensive.

The keyboard has some great features, but it isn’t as true to an acoustic piano as it should be. If you’re looking for something that can produce a lot of different sounds, it’s good for touring or playing in a band.

Another feature that is appealing to tech-loving musicians is the ability to stream backing tracks, as well as sending and receiving midi and audio. If you’re looking for something with a synthesizer feel, the GO:KEYS is perfect for you.

Costzon 61-Key

It’s easy to see why this keyboard made our list; its portability. As you can see from the design, it’s minimalistic and designed to fit 61 keys in the smallest space possible while also keeping playing functionality.

Although Costzon isn’t one of the most well-known piano brands, it shouldn’t deter you if you are looking for an affordable keyboard. In addition to some modern features, this keyboard includes a rechargeable battery, which some top brands do not provide. The keyboard can be charged and played for up to 12 hours.

What we like (and dislike) about the Costzon 61-key keyboard:

• Touch-sensitive keys are included.
• 128 tones and 128 rhythms included.
• Transpose, metronome, drum mode, and many other controls are possible with the simple control panel.
• Built-in battery provides up to 12 hours of battery life, or use the power adapter for constant power.
• Even on top of a surface, the silicon panel helps to keep the keyboard in place.
• This keyboard comes with a waterproof carry case that allows you to take it with you wherever you go.
• This is a great value, especially when you consider the sustain pedal and carrying case.

• If you want to get the most out of it, you will need to connect this to other speakers.
• When connected to a computer or other device, the touch sensitivity does not work.

The larger keyboard brands make up our list in general, but for the best portable option, the Costzon 61-key keyboard is hard to beat. Not only is it compact, but it also has easy controls and good connectivity. While the speakers aren’t powerful, they shouldn’t be an issue if you plan on connecting to a PA system or amplifier.

Yamaha PSR-E463

Yamaha’s keyboard range, PSR, is legendary, and many people are loyal to the brand. For decades, they have been making keyboards, and the E463 is a popular 61-key model, suitable for beginners as well as experienced players.

The keyboard can be purchased as a standalone item or you can choose to purchase a bundle including the power supply and a stand if desired. There are extra control options and even a display screen on this keyboard, so the keyboard is a little larger than some of the other portable keyboards.

What we like (and don’t like) about the Yamaha PSR-E463:

• Playback of Yamaha’s huge song library with XG Lite voice library.
• You can change the effects and characteristics of the sounds in real time by using the assigned knobs.
• Two 6W speakers are included, providing plenty of power as well as some bass boost.
• This can be used as a MIDI controller and linked to your DAW with its USB to MIDI conversion.
• Flash drives can be plugged into USB ports to load and store sound and other data.
• With Groove Creator mode, you can create EDM style beats using your keyboard.

• There are so many modes and options in this game that the controls are a little bit complicated.
• The quality of the keys could be improved. They feel cheap

RockJam RJ361

There are many reasons why you should not spend a lot of money on a keyboard. For example, if you’re buying one for your child and you’re not sure if they’ll stick with it. Getting a highly rated keyboard doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or features.

You can purchase this keyboard separately, or you can bundle it with a stool and stand and save even more money. Of course, this depends on where you plan to keep your keyboard, but it is nice to have this option.

What we like (and don’t like) about the RockJam RJ361:

• Note stickers are included to assist you in learning to play.
• Includes a music stand for your sheet music or for an iPad or Tablet.
• The MP3 file can be played via an aux in or USB input, so you can listen to your favorite songs or play along to backing tracks.
• Contains 200 rhythms and tones, as well as 40 demo songs.
• In addition to two piano learning modes, a companion piano application is available to help you learn.
• You can play quietly with a headphone output and not disturb anyone else.

• In an ideal world, speakers and some other components would be of higher quality.
• After the 30-day trial period, there is a charge for the companion software.
• The power cord is quite short.

• This keyboard’s sound isn’t very professional, but it’s definitely designed to be a good option for beginners. For the price, it’s hard to complain about all the features this cheap keyboard offers. It’s a great budget option for those who don’t want to spend too much money to get started.

The ONE Light

• This could be a great option if you don’t want to take lessons in person, and you are looking for a keyboard that can help you learn how to play. Rather than lessons, you can learn by using the lighted keys and learning modes.
• The product isn’t just for children or only for learners. When you learn to play it, the ONE Light keyboard has some good functions and plenty of sound and control options.

What we like (and don’t like) about the The ONE Light keyboard:

• You can learn how to play by following patterns with the LED lighting on the keys.
• The free companion app has many educational features, including crash courses and games, which are great for both adults and kids.
• The design is simple and the settings are easy to change. You can choose from 128 different sounds.
• There are MIDI output and recording settings, as well as 128-note polyphony so complex melodies can be reliably played.

• The ONE keyboard is only compatible with compatible tablets or other devices.
• The volume of speakers isn’t very high.
• It is bulkier and bigger than some other options, so it is less portable.

This may be the keyboard for you if you’re looking for a keyboard that includes the lighting keys feature. Aside from being good for learning, it comes in many colors and is suitable for both children and adults.

Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII

The product is not only great for learning to play or playing your favorite tunes on the keyboard, but also as a controller. With this you can hook it up to your computer. Connect your favorite music software to your computer and control it live or in the studio. With the Arturia KeyLab MkII, you can do everything from fade in and out of new sounds to playing drum patterns.

What we like (and don’t like) about the Arturia KeyLab 61 MkII:

• Easily compatible with Arturia VSTs and other music production software.
• There are five expression control inputs. By using them, you can add effects and change the character of the sounds.
• Drums and other sounds can be played on 16 backlit pads. This can be used in the dark as well as on stage.
• You can assign each of the 9 rotary knobs and faders to a different sound or alter the sound you are playing.

• Costly. This is twice what many of the other models on our keyboard review list cost.
• It is far easier to use if you have a suite of VSTs and already know how to create music.

This keyboard may be a producer or performer’s best friend, but it’s not for everyone. The game does cost a little extra and there are no beginner modes. When performing on stage and taking your compositions on the road, this can be a great option, letting you trigger other sounds besides the keyboard sound you are playing, or making real-time adjustments as you go.

Conclusion

61-key keyboards are available on the market for a variety of applications. An acoustic piano player moving to a digital piano won’t necessarily need to know what’s best for a beginner.

Here is our list of the best 61-key keyboards, providing reviews of the best keyboards from the top brands for a wide range of users.