Budget is generally the biggest factor in choosing a piano or keyboard. Personal preferences are also of utmost importance.
Almost all pianos have 88 keys, and have all of the preferred benefits and features. If you are considering a keyboard, use the following guidelines (in order of importance):
• Minimum of 61 regular-sized keys
• If affordable, an 88-key digital piano or keyboard is highly recommended
• A sustain pedal (not a sustain ‘button’)
• Touch sensitive keys
• Weighted keys