It's a good question, because they both have similar types of keys and read the same music. They can also be used to play many of the same songs. So which is the best to get started?
Confusing, isn't it?
It's difficult to say if one is truly better than the other. People who own pianos usually prefer them to keyboards, while keyboard players will tell you they like the variety an electric instrument offers. Rather than telling you what to do, though, here's a list of the main features of each kind of instrument. Hopefully this will help you make a sensible decision when the time comes to buy.The Piano
Here are some of things you get with a traditional or acoustic piano:- Weighted keys - these are harder for young people to play well, but give more control once a player's technique improves.
- One sound - unlike keyboards, a piano will always sound like a piano.
- Full key range - full-size pianos have 88 keys, while keyboards generally tend to have about 60 or less.
- Longevity - a good piano can last for 50 to 100 years if it's well cared for.
- Care and maintenance - unlike a keyboard, your piano needs tuning a few times a year. On top of that, damaged keys, hammers and felts need to be replaced to keep it in good working order.
- It's acoustic - pianos always work and don't rely on electricity or adaptors to produce sound.
The Keyboard
Keyboards, on the other hand, offer a different set of variables that might appeal to some more than others.- More sounds - keyboards can sound like a piano, but they can also sound like just about any other instrument you care to mention. On top of that, many of the sounds can be combined, making even practice time more entertaining.
- Fewer keys - in general keyboards have fewer keys than pianos. You can purchase keyboards with 88 keys, but they're still quite expensive.
- Temporary - keyboards can last a few years, but are generally superceded by the next "big thing" every year or so. Also, they're made of plastic and are easier to damage than pianos.
- Power source - keyboards require electricity -- or at the very least batteries -- in order to make a sound.
- Plug and play - unlike pianos, keyboards never need to be tuned or maintained. Indeed, for cheaper models, it's often more cost effective to replace the whole instrument when damage occurs.
- Plastic keys - this is one of the main reasons why piano players dislike keyboards. Although it's easier to make a sound on a keyboard, especially for beginners, the lightness of the keys means you have less control over the type of sound you can produce.
So what's the solution?
In the end, it comes down to personal preference. If you have the space in your home, then you might consider buying a traditional piano. If space is at a premium, a keyboard could be more practical.As far as cost goes, there's not much in it. A good second-hand piano will cost about the same as a decent keyboard. Whichever you decide to buy, though, make sure you take along someone that understands the instruments and can give you solid advice. Ask a piano teacher or tuner to accompany you, or perhaps someone who plays keyboard in a local band.
Technology is improving all the time. It may be that in the future keyboards are manufactured which can produce the sound and playing sensation of real pianos. But that time hasn't come yet.
If you want a piano, then you have to buy a piano. But if there are other variables involved, at least it's good to know you have a few options.
