Saxophone Buyer's Guide

Electric pianos contain different numbers of keys (88 keys is a full size keyboard) and come as non-weighted, semi-weighted, or fully-weighted, which determines how heavy and responsive the keys are.
Fully-weighted keyboards will be the most satisfying to play and most like a real piano, but also the most expensive. Small budget models are available, and there is a large selection of long-lasting mid-level models recommended for beginning students.
Electric keyboards often require the purchase of a few accessories, including a keyboard stand, sustain pedal, and piano bench. Some also sell the power supply separately.
Special lightweight keyboards also exist for toddlers to learn on that are better suited for their small, weak fingers.
Acoustic pianos come in many shapes and sizes, including vertical and grand pianos, and are a major purchase that requires hiring piano movers and regular tunings. The most important considerations are how it sounds, feels, and looks.
There are a myriad of used pianos that can be purchased inexpensively and then refurbished. Watch out for gray market pianos, and bring a piano-knowledgeable friend or technician to check any piano before you purchase it.
Many dealers also rent out pianos, and this may be a good first step to testing a piano out in your home and giving you or your child the opportunity to practice on an acoustic piano.