Difference Between Professional Keyboards & Digital Pianos

by Raissa Rocha

Overview

Pianists looking for a more portable way to play as well as extra features to enhance performance can use either digital pianos, which are meant to replicate acoustic piano sounds, or professional keyboards, which allow for more sample-based synthesizing.
History

Electric pianos that used short strings amplified by electronic signals to create sound were first introduced in the 1940s. By the 1980s, complete digital keyboards designed to simulate piano sounds were developed, eventually expanding to also replicate the sound of any instrument.

Digital Piano Features

Digital pianos allow the player to simulate the sounds of any keyboard instrument such as the piano, organ and harpsichord. Several pianos have the option of playing a background accompaniment along with the pianist, as well as being able to record and play back music.
Professional Keyboard Features

Electronic professional keyboards have a full range of sounds and musical styles at the player's disposal, allowing for a more complete orchestration of music. With a professional keyboard, musicians can set the tempo, choose two or more instruments to simulate, as well as send and receive MIDI data.
Brands

Several popular name brands that manufacture acoustic wooden pianos also sell digital pianos and professional keyboards. These include brands such as Roland, Yamaha and Kawai. Electronics companies such as Technics and Casio are also popular manufacturers of keyboards.
Costs

In 2009, digital pianos ranged anywhere from $200 to $2,000, depending on the condition and model of the product. Professional electronic keyboards can be pricier as well, with several popular models ranging from $1,000 to $4,000.

Overview