Casio CT-S100

The Casio CT-S100 is a 61-key keyboard designed primarily for beginners looking for a simple instrument to explore the keyboard, rhythms, and basic musical concepts at home. Its 122 sounds, 61 rhythms, and 60 built-in songs provide enough variety to keep practice sessions engaging without requiring constant adjustments. Weighing 3.3 kg, featuring a built-in handle, and capable of running on batteries, it’s also ideal for lessons and regular travel.

Key Features

• 122 sounds and 61 rhythms with automatic accompaniment to explore different instruments and styles.
• 60 built-in songs with the option to practice specific parts separately to support early exercises.
• 2 W + 2 W stereo speakers for playing directly without additional amplification.
• Micro-B USB port for transferring MIDI data to a computer or compatible device.
• Weighs 3.3 kg and features a built-in handle for easy transport between home and lessons.
• Can be powered by 6 AA batteries with a battery life of up to approximately 16 hours, depending on usage conditions.

Is the CT-S100 a good choice for a first keyboard?

Its intentionally simple interface provides direct access to sounds, rhythms, and key functions without requiring users to navigate through numerous menus. The metronome, built-in songs, and auto-accompaniment provide plenty to help you start working on rhythm and two-handed coordination.

The 61 keys are not velocity-sensitive. The sound therefore does not respond to the force of the keystroke as it does on the CT-S300, CT-S400, or a digital piano, which is a significant limitation when working on nuances and expressiveness in playing.

What can you do with the built-in rhythms and songs?

The 61 rhythms allow you to play with automatic accompaniment that includes a rhythm track and accompaniment elements controlled from the keyboard. This feature helps you practice rhythmic timing or play a melody with accompaniment without using any other device.

The 60 built-in songs serve as practice material. Certain parts can be turned off so you can play the corresponding part yourself.

Is it suitable for learning the piano?

The CT-S100 is suitable for getting started on the keyboard, learning notes, practicing simple melodies, and beginning to coordinate both hands. Its 61 keys cover many beginner-level pieces while maintaining a compact design.

For more advanced piano study, however, its limitations quickly become apparent: the keys are neither weighted nor velocity-sensitive, and the keyboard has only 61 notes. A velocity-sensitive model will be better suited for working on nuances, while an 88-key digital piano with weighted action will be better suited for learning with an acoustic piano in mind.

Can you play with headphones?

The PHONES/OUTPUT jack—a 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack—allows you to connect headphones so you can play without using the built-in speakers. It can also serve as an audio output to compatible equipment.

The two 13 x 6 cm speakers are powered by 2 W + 2 W. They’re sufficient for personal practice at home, but the CT-S100 isn’t designed to provide sound on its own for a rehearsal with acoustic instruments or a performance.

What is the USB connection used for?

The USB Micro-B port transmits MIDI data between the CT-S100 and a computer or compatible device. This allows the keyboard to send the notes played to music software that supports MIDI.

This connection does not directly transmit audio from the CT-S100 like a USB audio interface. Depending on the computer, smartphone, or tablet you’re using, a compatible cable or adapter may also be required.

Is it easy to transport?

The CT-S100 measures approximately 93 x 25.6 x 7.3 cm and weighs 3.3 kg without batteries. Its built-in handle makes it easier to move for a lesson, a weekend trip, or simply from one room to another.

It runs on a compatible AC adapter or 6 AA batteries. Casio claims up to approximately 16 hours of battery life with alkaline batteries, though this may vary depending on volume and usage conditions.

When should you choose a higher-end model?

The CT-S100 is best suited when budget, simplicity, and portability take precedence over expressive capabilities. To work on dynamics from the start, a velocity-sensitive keyboard like the CT-S300 is a more suitable next step.