The instrument you practice on shapes how quickly you progress. You do not need a concert grand to start, but a few features matter far more than price or brand.
Weighted keys are non-negotiable
Look for the words weighted or hammer action. These keys resist your fingers the way a real piano does, which builds hand strength and control. Light, springy keys feel easy now but teach habits you will have to unlearn later.
Count the keys
Aim for 88 keys if your space and budget allow, though 61 keys can work for a first year. A full-size keyboard keeps you from outgrowing your instrument in six months.
Do not forget the extras
A height-adjustable bench, a sturdy stand or cabinet, and a sustain pedal round out a comfortable setup. Headphones are a small purchase that make evening practice possible without disturbing anyone — a detail many families underestimate.