Skip to content
Teds-List-Logo-Quarter-Size
  • Start Here
    • EDUCATE | INFORM | INSPIRE
    • Start Here
    • About Ted’s List
  • Piano/Keys
      • TUTORIALS
        • PIANO & KEYBOARD | TUTORIALS
        • Acoustic Pianos
        • Digital Pianos
        • Keyboards/Synths
        • Music Theory
      • REVIEWS
        • PIANO & KEYBOARD | REVIEWS
        • Acoustic Pianos
        • Digital Pianos
        • Keyboards/Synths
        • Accessories
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • PIANO & KEYBOARD | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • Acoustic Piano​
        • Digital Piano
        • Keyboard/Synth
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • PIANO & KEYBOARD | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Strings
      • TUTORIALS
        • STRING INSTRUMENT | TUTORIALS
        • Violin
        • Double Bass
        • Viola
        • Harp
        • Cello
        • Music Theory
      • REVIEWS
        • STRING INSTRUMENT | REVIEWS
        • Violin
        • Double Bass
        • Viola
        • Harp
        • Cello
        • Accessories
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • STRING INSTRUMENT | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • Violin
        • Double Bass
        • Viola
        • Harp
        • Cello
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • STRING INSTRUMENT | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Wind
      • TUTORIALS
        • WOODWIND INSTRUMENT | TUTORIALS
        • Recorder
        • Oboe
        • Piccolo
        • Bassoon
        • Flute
        • Bagpipes
        • Clarinet
        • Music Theory
        • Saxophone
      • REVIEWS
        • WOODWIND INSTRUMENT | REVIEWS
        • Recorder
        • Oboe
        • Piccolo
        • Bassoon
        • Flute
        • Bagpipes
        • Clarinet
        • Accessories
        • Saxophone
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • WOODWIND INSTRUMENT | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • Recorder
        • Oboe
        • Piccolo
        • Bassoon
        • Flute
        • Saxophone
        • Clarinet
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • WOODWIND INSTRUMENT | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Brass
      • TUTORIALS
        • BRASS INSTRUMENT | TUTORIALS
        • French Horn
        • Tuba
        • Trumpet
        • Euphonium
        • Trombone
      • REVIEWS
        • BRASS INSTRUMENT | REVIEWS
        • French Horn
        • Tuba
        • Trumpet
        • Euphonium
        • Trombone
        • Accessories
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • BRASS INSTRUMENT | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • French Horn
        • Trumpet
        • Trombone
        • Tuba
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • BRASS INSTRUMENT | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Drums/Perc
      • TUTORIALS
        • DRUMS & PERCUSSION INSTRUMENT | TUTORIALS
        • Acoustic Drums
        • Electronic Drums
        • Percussion
        • Music Theory
      • REVIEWS
        • DRUMS & PERCUSSION INSTRUMENT | REVIEWS
        • Acoustic Drums
        • Electronic Drums
        • Percussion
        • Accessories
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • DRUMS & PERCUSSION INSTRUMENT | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • Drums
        • Percussion
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • DRUMS & PERCUSSION INSTRUMENT | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Guitars
      • TUTORIALS
        • GUITAR | TUTORIALS
        • Acoustic Guitars
        • Ukulele
        • Bass Guitars
        • Mandolin
        • Classical Guitars
        • Banjo
        • Electric Guitars
        • Music Theory
      • REVIEWS
        • GUITAR | REVIEWS
        • Acoustic Guitars
        • Ukulele
        • Bass Guitars
        • Banjo
        • Classical Guitars
        • Pedals
        • Electric Guitars
        • Amps
        • Mandolin
        • Accessories
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • GUITAR | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • Acoustic Guitar
        • Classical Guitar
        • Electric Guitar
        • Bass Guitar
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • GUITAR | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Voice
      • TUTORIALS
        • VOICE | TUTORIALS
        • Pop Singing
        • Classical Singing
        • Music Theory
      • REVIEWS
        • VOICE | REVIEWS
        • Pop Singing
        • Classical Singing
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • VOICE | BEGINNER’S GUIDE
        • Pop
        • Classical
      • ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • VOICE | ARTISTS & COMPOSERS
        • Artists
        • Composers
  • Studio
      • GEAR REVIEWS
        • GEAR | REVIEWS
        • Speakers
        • Mixers
        • Headphones
        • Digital Recorders
        • Microphones
        • Interfaces
        • Studio Outboard Gear
        • Software
Teds-List-Logo-Quarter-Size
Ted's List DNO
  • Start Here
    • Start Here
    • About Ted’s List
  • Piano/Keys
    • PIANO
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS PIANISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • DIGITAL PIANO
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS PIANISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • KEYBOARDS/SYNTHS
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS PIANISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
  • Strings
    • VIOLIN
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS VIOLINISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • VIOLA
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS VIOLA PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • CELLO
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS CELLISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • DOUBLE BASS
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS DOUBLE BASS PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • HARP
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS HARPISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
  • Wind
    • RECORDER
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS RECORDER PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • PICCOLO
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS PICCOLO PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • FLUTE
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS FLUTE PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • CLARINET
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS CLARINET PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • OBOE
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS OBOE PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • BASSOON
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS BASSOON PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • SAXOPHONE
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS SAXOPHONE PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • BAGPIPES
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
  • Brass
    • FRENCH HORN
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • TRUMPET
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • TUBA
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • TROMBONE
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • EUPHONIUM
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
  • Drums/Perc
    • DRUMS
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • Acoustic Drums Reviews
      • Electronic Drums Reviews
      • FAMOUS DRUMMERS
    • PERCUSSION
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS PERCUSSION PLAYERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
  • Guitars
    • ACOUSTIC GUITAR
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS ACOUSTIC GUITARISTS
    • BASS GUITAR
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS BASS GUITARISTS
    • CLASSICAL GUITAR
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS CLASSICAL GUITARISTS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
    • ELECTRIC GUITAR
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS ELECTRIC GUITARISTS
    • UKULELE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
    • MANDOLIN
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
    • BANJO
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • INSTRUMENT REVIEWS
  • Voice
    • POP SINGING
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS POP SINGERS
    • CLASSICAL SINGING
      • BEGINNER’S GUIDE
      • TUTORIALS, TIPS & ADVICE
      • REVIEWS
      • FAMOUS CLASSICAL SINGERS
      • FAMOUS COMPOSERS
  • Music Theory

Home » Tutorial » How Many Keys Are On A Piano?

How Many Keys Are On A Piano Cover

Last updated February 12, 2025

How Many Keys Are On A Piano?

  • Proudly written by Pro-Pianist,
  • Dawn Hardwick
  • 5 Comments
  • Piano & Keyboards | Acoustic Pianos

Best

Digital Grand Piano

Yamaha CLP 765 Digital Grand Piano FOR A HISTORICALLY ACCURATE PERFORMANCE
  • Overall: Perfect For Beginners To Expert-Level Pianists
  • Best Feature: Features Historically Accurate Pianoforte Samples
  • TedScore™: 8/10
Click for Best Price

Best

Digital Upright Piano

DP-90U Upright Digital Piano by Gear4music OFFERS 40 AUTHENTIC SOUNDS
  • Overall: With Graded Hammer Action Keybed With 256 Note Polyphony
  • Best Feature: Polished Ebony Upright Cabinet
  • TedScore™: 9/10
Click for Best Price
Winner

Best

Digital Piano On A Budget

Roland FP-30X Digital Piano PORTABLE AND POWERFUL
  • Overall: With A Bluetooth Connection For Speakers And Headphones
  • Best Feature: One Of Roland's Premium Keyboards - The PHA-4. Lightweight And Compact Size
  • TedScore™: 10/10
Click for Best Price

Have you ever wondered how many keys on a piano? You’re exactly where you need to be; we’re jumping right in!

Most pianos have 88 keys – 52 white and 36 black- forming this magnificent instrument’s heart.

From learning the basics of music theory to exploring the evolution of the modern piano, there’s so much to uncover. Whether you’re an aspiring pianist or just curious about music, you’ll find fascinating insights here.

So, are you ready to explore the world of piano keys with me? Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Piano Keys

The piano is a fascinating instrument that has a rich history.

It all began with musical instrument technician Bartolomeo Cristofori’s invention in 1655. He was dissatisfied with the lack of control over the volume level of the ‘keyboards’ that were around back then, and set out to create an instrument that would give musicians more control. From there, the technology adopted by piano manufacturers has been shaped and developed over the centuries.

Brief History Of The Piano

Before Cristofori, there were other keyboard instruments such as dulcimers, but none had the same sound as the piano we know today. Paul Janko later refined this design in 1881 and added more keys to create the modern 88-key piano.

Thanks to these past piano makers, we can now enjoy this wonderful instrument!

How Many Keys Does the First Piano Have?

The first pianos usually had 60 keys, which represented five octaves of music. This standard was held until the 1880’s when piano manufacturer Steinway started producing 88-key pianos.

Keyboard vs Piano

Keyboard

Keyboards, which are also called electric pianos, are instruments with unweighted keys that require a power source. They are commonly used as a substitute for pianos because of their portability and ease of use. The keys on a keyboard are typically narrower than on a piano. It also produces electronically amplified sounds. 

A keyboard and a digital piano are really quite different instruments, and we have a dedicated article here explaining the difference.

Piano

The piano is a stringed keyboard instrument in which the strings are struck by wooden hammers that are coated with a softer material. It has the broadest range of notes of any instrument, covering more than seven octaves. Its technical name is a pianoforte – but no-one calls it that anymore!

These keys are generally black keys and white keys; when you press them with your fingers, little hammers hit the strings inside to create a sound.

Types Of Pianos

There are two main types of pianos for you to choose from: acoustic pianos (that have two subcategories of grand and upright pianos), and digital pianos (that have four subcategories). All of these options offer something unique to suit your needs and preferences.

Grand Piano

Grand pianos are the largest and most expensive type of piano, and they offer a wide dynamic range, rich resonance and deep bass tones.

Grand pianos are incredible for performance pieces that desire a full-bodied sound.

Yamaha G Series Gb1K Grand Piano Review
YAMAHA'S MOST COMPACT AND AFFORDABLE GRAND PIANO

DESIGNED FOR: People Needing An Affordable Grand Piano

COMES WITH: Gloss Ebony Finish

FEATURES: Solid Spruce Soundboard

Check Price >
8/10

Yamaha GB1 K Grand Piano

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Affordable
  • Amazing sounding
  • Elegant Design
CONS
  • If you have a bit more budget, a slightly larger model would be a better option
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Upright Piano

Upright pianos are named for their vertical orientation, meaning the strings and soundboard run perpendicular to the ground. They are smaller than grand pianos, yet they still produce a full-bodied sound due to the vertical arrangement of their strings.

If you’re looking for an instrument that’s compact yet still has an impressive sound, then this piano may be just what you need!

Yamaha U1 Upright Piano Review
BEST FOR LEARNING, PRACTICING, AND PERFORMING​

DESIGNED FOR: Experienced And Professional Musicians

COMES WITH: Three Pedals (Soft, Middle, And Sustain)

FEATURES: Vailable In Several Finishes; Built With High-Quality Materials, Providing A Warm And Smooth Sound

Check Price >
10/10

Yamaha U1

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Produces a warm and rich tone
  • The piano has a solid construction
  • Sophisticated design
CONS
  • Not suitable for musicians on a budget
The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Digital Pianos

Digital pianos are the perfect choice for anyone who wants the sound of an acoustic piano, but doesn’t have the space, the budget, or needs to play them silently (with headphones).

They feature 88 keys just like the real thing, and they offer a wide range of sounds due to their digital effects and PC connectivity.

Yamaha Clp 765 Digital Grand Piano Review
FOR A HISTORICALLY ACCURATE PERFORMANCE

DESIGNED FOR: Beginners to expert-level pianists

FEATURES: Features historically accurate pianoforte samples

OTHER INFO: Has samples from two original pianofortes from the 18th century. New GrandTouchS keyboard action. All-new CFX and Bösendorfer samples

Check Price >
8/10

Yamaha CLP 765 Digital Grand Piano

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Includes a Yamaha 5-year warranty
  • Includes three months of Flowkey Premium
CONS
  • More expensive than other counterparts
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Dp-90U Upright Digital Piano By Gear4Music Review
OFFERS 40 AUTHENTIC SOUNDS

DESIGNED FOR: Beginners and early-grade players

FEATURES: Polished ebony upright cabinet

OTHER INFO: With graded hammer action keybed with 256 Note Polyphony

Check Price >
9/10

DP-90U Upright Digital Piano by Gear4music

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Allows USB Connectivity
  • Suitable for home learning
CONS
  • None
The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Roland Fp-30X Digital Piano With Stand Review
PORTABLE AND POWERFUL

DESIGNED FOR: Players at home or on the go

COMES WITH: with a Bluetooth connection for speakers and headphones

FEATURES: one of Roland's premium keyboards - the PHA-4. Lightweight and compact size

Check Price >
10/10

Roland FP-30X Digital Piano

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Purchase includes three free months of access to Skoove - Roland's online learning platform
CONS
  • None
The TedScore™: 10/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

How Many Keys Does a Piano Have?

37 Keys Pianos

A 37 keys piano is an instrument for beginners to start playing piano music; with 22 white keys and 15 black keys. It has all the notes for you to learn the basics like chords, scales, and arpeggios.

Visionkey-1 37 Key Portable Mini Keyboard Review
THE ULTIMATE COMPACT KEYBOARD

DESIGNED FOR: Beginner pianist

FEATURES: Offers 37 mini keys, 100 sounds, 100 rhythms and 30 songs

OTHER INFO: Practice in silence, or perform out loud with the 1 x 1W speaker and headphone input

Check Price >
5/10

VISIONKEY-1 37 Key Portable Mini Keyboard

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Provides a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the piano music
  • Easy to store and travel with thanks to the lightweight compact size
CONS
  • It won't last very long before you need to upgrade
The TedScore™: 5/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

49 Keys Pianos

The 49 keys on a  piano has four octaves, starting on the second octave and ending on the fifth. Also perfect for learners, the 29 white keys and 20 black keys offer a range which allows you to explore various genres of music.

Roland A-49 Midi Controller Keyboard Review
A MIDI KEYBOARD THAT WORKS WITH A COMPUTER

DESIGNED FOR: Musicians on the go or at home

COMES WITH: Ableton Live Lite

FEATURES: 49 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys. USB-powered - PC, Mac and iPod compatible

Check Price >
8/10

Roland A49 MIDI Keyboard Controller

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Two knobs, two switches and a D-Beam controller
  • Lightweight and slimline design, ideal for gigging
  • Allows you to control and manipulate sounds through hand movements
CONS
  • Much expensive compared to other 49 keys piano keyboards
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

54 Keys Pianos

The 54 keys piano keyboard comes with 22 black keys and 32 white keys. These are still instruments that are only suitable really for travelling.

Mk-1000 54-Key Portable Keyboard By Gear4Music Review
MAKING MUSIC FUN

DESIGNED FOR: Beginner players

FEATURES: Packed with 30 different sounds to inspire your creativity

OTHER INFO: Play along and sing to 10 backing tracks. Easily record your own compositions

Check Price >
6/10

MK-1000 54-Key Portable Keyboard by Gear4music

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Easy to use and packed full of features
  • Comes with 20 instruments and 10 percussion sounds plus a microphone
CONS
  • None
The TedScore™: 6/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Alesis Harmony 54 Portable Keyboard Review
TRANSFORMS YOUR KEYBOARD SKILLS

DESIGNED FOR: Keen beginners

COMES WITH: 300 built-in tones and rhythms

FEATURES: Take your music on the move with the option to battery power. With 54 piano-style keys

Check Price >
7/10

Alesis Harmony 54 Portable Keyboard

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Includes a microphone so you can sing along!
  • Purchase includes support in learning with a selection of online musical courses
CONS
  • None!
The TedScore™: 7/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

61 Keys Pianos

The 61 Key piano offers enough range to cover most modern styles such as pop, rock, folk, and more. Built with 36 white keys and 25 black keys, many models come with the option to add a sustain pedal for greater expression.

Roland Go: Piano 61 Key Digital Piano Review
BEST OF THE BUNCH

DESIGNED FOR: Developing piano learners

FEATURES: Lightweight and Compact Design for Easy Portability

OTHER INFO: Metronome Function for Progressing Your Skills. Bluetooth Connectivity for Streaming Your Music

Check Price >
8/10

Roland Go: Piano 61 Key Digital Piano

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Free online tuition from Skoove
  • Has an advanced speaker system for musicians on the go
CONS
  • Slightly pricier than other 61 keys keyboards
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Full-sized 88 Keys Pianos

A full-sized 88-key piano offers a more natural and realistic feel than other keyboard, as its graded and weighted keys replicate the feel of a traditional acoustic piano. It has 36 black keys and 52 white keys. It’s considered as the ‘standard piano’.

Korg Sv2 Stage Piano, 88 Key Review
VINTAGE PIANO MADE BETTER

DESIGNED FOR: Pianists of all skill levels

COMES WITH: a timeless collection of electronic instruments

FEATURES: Provides an editor software to personalise your sound

Check Price >
8/10

Korg SV2 Stage Piano, 88 Key

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Allow you to experience the pinnacle of sampling techniques
  • Offers more sounds, more memory, more polyphony, more presets, and more control
CONS
  • More expensive than other 88 keys pianos
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Roland Rd-88 Compact 88-Key Stage Piano Review
BUILT FOR EMOTIVE PERFORMANCES

DESIGNED FOR: Performing pianists

COMES WITH: Apple MainStage integration

FEATURES: White keys are finished with a moisture-absorbing material for a comfortable playing experience.

Check Price >
9/10

Roland RD-88 Compact 88-Key Stage Piano

What Retailer to Buy From?

When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item.  Our personal favorite is Gear4music.

It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too.  Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.

Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!

PROS
  • Built with onboard speakers for easy monitoring
  • Lightweight and compact design for easy transportation
  • Designed with Roland's latest touch-detection technology for an expressive performance
CONS
  • None!
The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.

Tips on How to Clean The Keys on a Piano

Tip #1: Get started by removing dust from the piano keys with a dampened microfiber cloth. If your piano keys are plastic, dip the cloth in vinegar mixed with warm water and rub them. For ivory piano keys, use a barely damp cloth.

Tip #2: If there is any stubborn dirt or grime that won’t come off, try using some mild detergent mixed with water or dish soap for extra cleaning power!

Tip #3: Make sure you start at the lowest white note on the piano and work your way up to avoid spreading the dirt around.

Tip #4: When finished cleaning, rinse the piano keys with a damp cloth and dry them off with a fresh microfiber cloth. Make sure they are completely dry before playing with or handling them again.

Tip #5: To add an extra shine to your piano keys, give them a wipe down with some filtered water and white vinegar and let them air-dry before playing again!

How Many Keys Are On A Piano?
Summary

Most people ask the question ‘how many keys are on a piano’ because they are looking to purchase an instrument. In short, if possible you should get an 88-key instrument. The more keys, the better! They’re built with superior keyboard actions, will play better, and will probably last longer.

If you are looking to buy a piano, then do take a look at our Buying Piano Guide here. It’ll save you hours of research.

Now, get your abacus out and count those keys!

FAQ's

Do all pianos have 88 keys?

No, not all pianos have 88 keys. Although this is considered a standard piano.

Is 61 keys a full piano?

A 61 keys piano is not considered a full piano. Full sized pianos have a keyboard that’s 88 keys long. How many black keys are there on a full size? 36. And how many white keys are there? 52 (with seven white keys per octave). And how many octaves? 7 and a bit!

 

What piano has more than 88 keys?

The Imperial Concert Grand Bosendorfer piano has 97 keys! The extra keys have their colors reversed – the black piano keys are white, and the white piano keys are black so that you can identify the extra keys from the standard 88 keys.

A standard full-size piano has how many keys?

A standard full-size piano has 88 keys. These keys are arranged in a pattern of black and white keys.

SHARE NOW
  • Dawn Hardwick
    Dawn Hardwick

    Dawn Hardwick hails from the small town of Mountain Ash, in the Welsh valleys where she began her piano studies. Dawn attended the prestigious Chetham's School of Music studying with Alicia Fiderkiewicz followed by the RWCMD with Richard McMahon and Philip Martin, and continued her performance studies at the Royal College of Music under the tutelage of Julian Jacobson. ​ Dawn is an experienced concerto soloist, with a varied repertoire from more traditional piano concertos to contemporary collaborations and experimental music. Most recently, she performed John Psathas’ double concerto ‘View From Olympus’ with percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie and the British Sinfonietta to great acclaim, and was subsequently invited to perform with Dame Evelyn at the Southbank Sky Arts Awards, broadcast on the Sky Arts channel, and also on BBC One’s ‘The One Show’. ​ One of her great loves is orchestra/ensemble playing, and she regularly works as an orchestral pianist/celeste/keyboards player with many of the UK's top orchestras both at home and on tour. ​ Dawn regularly performs as an accompanist for various musicians, and has been involved in many radio and television broadcasts such as James May’s ‘Man Lab’, BBC One's ‘The One Show’ and the Southbank Sky Arts Awards. She was the pianist for English Touring Opera’s production of Tippett’s ‘King Priam’ for which they won an Olivier Award and has recently been working with animator Gregoire Pont in his performances of ‘Cinesthetics’ – live animation to the solo piano music of Ravel, in association with Maestro Arts.

FREE Report Reveals.....

GETTING STARTED WITH MUSIC LESSONS

Getting Started with Music Lessons DNO
FREE DOWNLOAD
Join Our Members Facebook Group Now
Ted's List Facebook DNO
4-Feature Friday DNO
Music Instrument Tutorials
10 Secrets Music Lessons DNO
Music Tutorials DNO

FREE REPORT REVEALS...

Top 10 Tricks to Playing The Piano

Top 10 Tricks

To Playing The​

Piano

FREE DOWNLOAD
Related Articles

Can You Really Learn Piano on Your Phone? I Gave It a Shot

Pianote Review: Is It Worth Your Money?

The Comprehensive Pianoforall Review (2025)

How Long Does It Take To Tune A Piano?

Tips On How To Sell A Piano

Unleash Your Inner Pianist: A Comprehensive Flowkey Review

↓ Click here to leave a comment ↓
  1. EdgyRick42 says:
    November 11, 2024 at 8:09 am

    how much does a digital piano cost usually? thinking of getting one but im on a budget.

    Reply
  2. Piannissimo_Franco says:
    October 25, 2024 at 8:08 am

    Dawn Hardwick, your comprehensive guide to piano keys is exemplary. It wonderfully encapsulates the breadth of piano types and their respective key counts, which serves as an indispensable resource for both novices and seasoned pianists alike. It’s rare to find such a thorough delineation that balances historical context with practical advice, such as the piano cleaning tips. Kudos for such an engaging read.

    Reply
  3. beatmaker_88 says:
    September 8, 2024 at 5:48 pm

    yo this history section was tight. didnt realize how the piano evolved over time. gotta say, makes me appreciate my midi controller a lil more now lol

    Reply
    • keysenthusiast says:
      November 11, 2024 at 8:09 am

      Definitely a fascinating evolution, but nothing beats the touch and sound of a traditional grand piano.

      Reply
  4. MaggieS says:
    August 10, 2024 at 4:07 am

    Loved the bit on different pianos. I didn’t know there were digital ones with less than 88 keys. Can anyone tell me if those are good for beginners?

    Reply

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join 54,729 Subscribers Who Receive
Free Tips On Learning A Musical Instrument

Ted's List Logo - Quarter Size DNO

Ted’s List is the go-to community for advice or reviews on anything related to music & instruments

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Pinterest

QUICK MENU

  • Start Here
  • About Us
  • Newsroom
  • Our Team

INSTRUMENT REVIEWS

  • Brass
  • Drums & Percussion
  • Guitars
  • Piano & Keyboards
  • Strings
  • Studio
  • Voice
  • Wind

BEGINNER'S GUIDE

  • Piano
  • Acoustic Guitar
  • Electric Guitar
  • Drums
  • Violin
  • Voice
  • Trumpet
  • Saxophone

ARTISTS & COMPOSERS

  • Composers
  • Brass
  • Drums & Percussion
  • Guitars
  • Piano & Keyboards
  • Strings
  • Wind
Facebook Instagram Youtube Pinterest
  • Privacy
  • Legal Stuff
  • Equality & Diversity
  • Contact Us
  • Advertise
  • Address
  • Phone

Copyright © 2021 Arts Digital Limited trading as Ted’s List™®. All rights reserved.

Ted's List is a project run by The Emery Foundation - a Micro-Trust of GivingWorks, registered charity number 107877.

The idea of Ted's List was setup to raise funds for musicians during the Covid-19 pandemic as part of the Get Musicians Working project.

Our 'Champions' are the musicians we think showcase their instrument to the wider public, and make a substantial difference to the popularity of their instrument family. Non of the 'Champions' are remitted in any way by Ted's List, and our list is completely impartial. If you have a favourite musician you would like to nominate to be added to our list of 'Champions', then please do contact us.

Affiliate Disclaimer: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
This keeps it 100% reader-supported and free of ads. Thanks for your support!