What is the Difference Between a Digital Piano and a Keyboard?

While digital pianos and keyboards may look similar, they’re built for different purposes and feel very different to play.
Digital pianos are designed to sound and feel as close to a real acoustic piano as possible. They usually have 88 weighted keys, giving you the same touch and response you’d expect from a traditional piano. Digital pianos focus on a realistic playing experience and often come in furniture-style cabinets that look great in your home.
Keyboards, on the other hand, are made for portability and variety. They often have fewer keys (like 61 or 76), and the keys are usually lighter and not weighted. Keyboards are great for beginners, kids, or musicians who want to play many different sounds and instruments, like drums, strings, or synths. They’re easy to move, fun to experiment with, and often less expensive.
In short, if you want a piano-like feel for learning or performing, go with a digital piano. If you want something lighter, more portable, and more playful, a keyboard might be a better fit.