Digital pianos, also known as electronic pianos come in many shapes, sizes and price points. Digitals recreate the approximate sound of real pianos with prerecorded digital samples store in the keyboard's memory.

Digital electronic pianos have many interesting features that real pianos lack. One of the most popular features is the wide array of built-in sounds in addition to the piano sound included. Many also have a recording feature, which allows the player to record their performance and then listen back. Many of these digital keyboards also include a built-in metronome feature or even a full drum set sound feature.

One particular feature that has a very practical use is the headphone output, which allows the player to practice without disturbing others. Most digitals also feature MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) input and output, which allows the user to control other keyboards with the digital piano. Some newer models also feature computer hookup possibilities with as USB connection.

A basic digital electronic piano will have 49 or 61 keys, with no touch sensitivity. Touch sensitivity allows the player to play louder by striking the key harder. On the basic models the piano sound may not be very full or realistic sounding. Though these units can be inexpensive, starting at around $100, they often do not included the AC power adapter, which will add to the cost (but it's still cheaper than batteries!).

The next step up the ladder for digital pianos is the feature of touch sensitivity. Generally these models also feature better sounding samples, and maybe other features including recording possibilities or a built-in metronome. Usually these models have at least 61 full-size piano keys, which is enough for most beginner piano lessons. Digital piano/keyboards in this range can cost from less than $200 to about $500 depending on brand and features.

To go one step further is to get "weighted action" which feels like a real piano action. These tend to be 88 key pianos, with even more realistic sounding pianos and other samples. These can come as just a keyboard, with no speakers or stand, and generally intended for stage use.

Many weighted action models include a matching stand designed to look good in the home. These models start at around $500 or $600, depending on brand and feature set. These make a great piano for young players, people in apartments or college students.

Fancier casings made to look like a spinet piano or baby grand generally add greatly to the price. Usually the piano samples sound more realistic, and the latest models with the speakers mounted in a real piano soundboard can sound stunningly real. Some of these models are priced similarly to real pianos, into the thousands of dollars.

Some popular brands include Yamaha, Casio, Roland, Korg, Kawai and Kuzrweil.