The best keyboard stand isn’t just some accessory, it’s as much a part of your rig as the keyboard itself. Employing a proper tiered stand will significantly improve your workflow, allowing for solid and flexible positioning. This allows you to set your keyboards precisely where you want them to be.
Single Tier X Style | Single Tier X Style Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 90 | 2550+ | |||
 | 89 | 3825+ |
Single Tier Double X | Single Tier Double X Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 95 | 1950+ | |||
 | 94 | 175+ |
Table Style | Table Style Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 96 | 1825+ |
Single Tier Z Style | Single Tier Z Style Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 97 | 4850+ |
2 Tier X Style | 2 Tier X Style Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 90 | 150+ |
2 Tier Column Style | 2 Tier Column Style Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 94 | 525+ |
2 Tier Z-Style | 2 Tier Z-Style Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 90 | 850+ |
3 Tier Keyboard Stands | 3 Tier Keyboard Stands Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 87 | 80+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
A good stand does two big things: it keeps everything rock solid and it adjusts so I can play comfortably no matter if I’m sitting, standing, or somewhere in between. Since everyone’s built a little differently, having that flexibility is huge. That’s why the best stand for keyboard is the one that balances stability with smart adjustability.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most popular types of stands, whether you’re after a compact single, a 2 tier keyboard stand for layering synths, or even a full 3 tier keyboard stand to build a powerhouse rig. I’ve grouped them by support style and number of tiers so you can zero in on the right choice for live shows, studio work, or even just practicing at home.
This roundup focuses on stands built for 49-key instruments and up. If you’re working with something smaller, make sure to double-check the minimum width, and don’t overlook options like music laptop stands or attachments designed for smaller keyboards.
The Best Keyboard Stands – 2025
These can be used in either standing or sitting positions, although the table-top variety suits a broader range of keyboard players’ height when sitting. You want your feet to comfortably reach your pedals while the keyboard isn’t too high. This section focuses on those that can accommodate different keyboard models and sizes. We did not include specialized stands for home organs as they are primarily intended for stationary use and are often specific to particular keyboard models.
Best Single Tier X Style Keyboard Stand
These are lightweight stands that are easy to carry around, set up, and break down. This is the most common demo keyboard stands, ideal for musicians who prioritize portability and ease of use. There are downsides, including less legroom in a sitting position, lower load / weight capacity, and limited height/width adjustments.
Yamaha PKBS1
This keyboard stand is a great go-to for anyone seeking a fairly stable platform that beginners could get their hands on. It has a circular locking mechanism, and you can change the height easily by quickly releasing it. Very stable and durable, any keyboardist who wants convenience and portability would have no issues using this stand.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to setup and adjust
- Good build quality
- Affordable
- Not meant for big and heavy keyboards
- Not for those who hit their keys hard
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Being one of the biggest manufacturers of student-friendly keyboards, it follows that Yamaha knows how to make stands for beginners. The PKBS1 is exactly that, a portable and easy-to-use keyboard stand meant for hobbyists and students.
Having a single bracing makes it lightweight and easy to carry. Given its basic design, it has a lower load capacity, but it should be stable enough for most portable keyboards. Since it’s from Yamaha, you can be sure of its overall quality and reliability.
Being easy to set up and fold is another important advantage that makes the PKBS1 beginner-friendly. All you have to do is loosen the quick change knob and set the stand up to your preferred height. The circular locking mechanism, together with the quick change knob, makes setup and height adjustments easy to do while retaining good stability.
Note that this stand is not meant to support bigger and heavier keyboards, including those that feature weighted keys. Also, if you’re a keyboardist who tends to hit hard on your keys, you may want to go for a more stable stand.
All in all, the Yamaha PKBS1 is the best stand for keyboard for those who prioritize convenience and portability.
- Load capacity: 130 lb
- Height: Adjustable from 25.63″ to 38.75″
- Width: 11″ to 31.5″
- Depth: Not Specified”
- Construction: Square and round steel tubing
- Weight: 13.75 lb
On-Stage KS7190
It’s a no-frills, best keyboard stand that features a square-shapeed tube that reliably supports any keyboard with a max capacity of 90lbs. It has an adjustable height of 27-38 inches and will last a long time for 49-88 keys. If you want a keyboard stand without the bulk, this is a great choice.
Pros:
- Inexpensive
- 5 step holes for adjustability
- Can carry up to 90lbs
- Doesn’t allow for finer height adjustment
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The On-Stage KS7190 is an inexpensive, simple, braced X keyboard stand. Setting it up is straightforward, and an Allen wrench is included.
It features 1″ square tubing, which serves as its main frame while locking it in place, and adjustments are done via a 5-position disk clutch with a bullet-nose pull knob.
The non-slip rubber end caps work as intended with minimal movement. For its load capacity, it can carry up to 90 pounds of weight well.
It works well with keyboards from 49 to 88 keys, and being able to reduce to 11″ in width at its highest setting, it will also hold some 25 key instruments. However, since you’re limited to only 5 holes, you won’t be able to dial in a specific height that’s perfectly aligned with your comfort.
For your basic keyboard stability needs, this is more than enough and will be reliable for a long time.
- Load capacity: 90 lbs
- Height: Adjustable from 27″-38″
- Width: 11″ to 31″
- Depth: 13.25″
- Construction: Bolted 1″ square tubing
- Weight: 5.6 lbs.
Best Single Tier Double X Keyboard Stand
These have two sets of bracing tubes which make them tougher and better suited to gigging, but even less suitable than single X stands for playing sitting down because many people’s knees will bump into the cross bars.
Amazon Basics Adjustable Double-X
Double the braces double the stability. This entry-level keyboard stand has a teeth-like locking mechanism unlike the 5-step lock that most keyboard stands have. This entails that it’s less prone to looseness and it will hold your keyboard in place better. For those who want unique lock with a stylish appearance, you can’t go wrong with this affordable, best keyboard stand.
Pros:
- High load capacity
- Sturdy and stable
- Easy to setup, fold and adjust
- Affordable
- Rubber contacts are not as durable as I would like
- Children can inadvertently loosen the locking mechanism
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This is a sturdy, entry-level double x stand from Amazon. Given its Basic label, it doesn’t stray from conventional X-stand designs, but it does the job well enough to receive top marks and secure a spot in this guide.
The double-braced frame is made from steel, which increases its overall stability and reliability. The coating does a great job of insulating the stand from rust.
It’s grounded better and is not as prone to tipping over as single-braced stands. More importantly, it is sturdy enough to handle heavier instruments, including heavy 88-key digital pianos. It is secure enough for home use, and I’ve also seen this stand used in church setups.
In addition to steel, other parts of this stand are made from PVC, plastic, and rubber. Rubber parts are used for the contact points, and while they do get the job done, they’re not as durable and can be damaged when handled poorly.
The locking mechanism is located right at the center, designed to be easy to set up, adjust, and fold for storage. What’s nice about this is that it is as easy to use as single-braced stands but with better load capacity and stability. The downside of its easy fold feature is that children can inadvertently loosen the locking mechanism, hence the caution from some parents.
Finally, this double-braced x-style stand is affordable and is backed by a one-year warranty. If you’re looking for a stand that’s sturdy yet easy to use and affordable, then this is for you.
- Load capacity overall: Not Specified
- Height: Adjustable from 27.5″ to 38.2″
- Width: 13.5″ to 16.5″
- Depth: Not Specified
- Construction: Steel Square Tubing
- Weight: 10.5 lbs
K&M 18990 Rick Double X
Industrial in both aesthetics and construction, this best keyboard stand is a premium option for the standing keyboardist. It’s double-braced for extra stability, durable in construction and can accommodate different heights with its 5-degree steps and clamp-style locking system. Most of all, it will give you even stability in different heights and keyboard/piano weights.
Pros:
- High quality and extremely sturdy
- Solid and stable construction
- The quick release mechanism
- No spare rubbers for floor feet
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K&M has had a long-enduring reputation for creating the best keyboard stands and accessories. The 18990 Rick is a double-braced X stand that delivers exceptional stability and safety for your keyboard and portable piano.
Each part of this keyboard stand from the locks to the double brace screams “industrial” or “premium quality.” It’s made of high-grade steel with a jet-black appearance. Most piano bench or keyboard stands would just opt for a fixed 5-8 hole quick release. What sets it apart is its 5° steps and sleek clamping lever that locks it in different heights.
It could go as low as 23 inches to 37 inches and depending on your most comfortable height, you could dial it to your specific settings. Each setting locks in place so reliably that even at its max loading capacity, there’s little movement when you shake it up.
This keyboard stand justifies its price with just the stability, reliability, and it’s lever mechanism. However, the only downside this stand has is its lack of legroom and spare rubbbers. It’s really portable, but if you’re a keyboardist who prefers your foot pedal at the bottom of your keyboard, this might not give you space.
Other than that, I think if you’re a person who stands while playing the piano, then this could be the best keyboard stand for you.
- Load capacity: 110 lbs
- Height: from 23.4″ to 37.2″
- Width: from 12.9″ to 31″
- Depth: 13.8″
- Construction: Double brace steel tube
- Weight: 12.8 lbs.
Best Keyboard Stand – Table Style
These are much better suited to playing in a sitting position, although some can extend high enough to play standing up. The main drawback is that these require more effort to set up, break down, and carry around. However, they tend to be very stable.
K&M Omega 18810
While the Omega 18810 looks bulky in appearance, this table-style stand gives plenty of legroom and a lot more stability than any other stands. The height is adjustable via its step-locking mechanism up to 40.1 inches in height. I’d say that this is a concert-ready keyboard stand due to its heavy duty parts.
Pros:
- Table style with less bulk and weight
- Adjustable width and height
- Stable and durable
- Good quality steel used
- It takes a bit more effort to set up and breakdown
- Not as portable and affordable as X-stands
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K&M have a reputation for quality, and the Omega 18810 is one of their best-rated offerings. This is a table-style keyboard stand made from steel, so you get good stability. But it only has a single horizontal beam, supported by cross bars, so it is not as bulky and heavy as regular tables.
Another important feature is its adjustability. It can accommodate a large range of keyboard sizes from 25-key to 88-key. It can also be set to different heights without the width changes of X-style stands. As such, it can be set up for more precise and comfortable positioning. Its table style design also means that you get ample room for your knees and legs.
The downside to its adjustability is that it takes a bit more effort to tear down and get up and running. Thankfully, it can fit into hatchbacks and vans even fully set up, so there is a way to carry it around without having to break it down.
Note that this stand is convertible into a 2 Tiered keyboard stand with the addition of the K&M 18811 Stacker, which is available from Sweetwater and Amazon
K&M Stacker from Amazon.com.
Other nifty features include having 4 Velcro tapes to guide cables and an engraved height scale.
The K&M Omega 18810 is priced a bit higher than many other stands. But it is worth the extra money, given its heavy-duty build, stability, and adjustability.
- Load capacity: 176 lb (80 Kg)
- Height: Adjustable from 23.6″ to 40.1″ (600 mm to 1,020 mm) via spring-loaded clamping knobs
- Width: Adjustable from 7″ to 31.1″ (180 mm to 790 mm)
- Depth: 13.6″ (345 mm)
- Construction: Steel
- Weight: 20.9 lb (9.5 kg)
Best Keyboard Stand – Z Style Single Tier
These are sturdier than X-Style stands and some can be raised and lowered to accommodate both sitting and standing positions.
Liquid Stands MS1080 with Wheels
I highly recommend this stand to keyboardists who prefer a mobile option for moving a heavy keyboard. It’s designed with wheels so you can move without carrying it, and it comes with a slew of supplementary features. I remain stable at different heights and offer plenty of legroom.
Pros:
- Comes nearly fully assembled with clear instructions
- Easy to adjust for both height and width
- Ample leg room for seated play
- Heavier than expected for transport or moving around frequently
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“The throne has wheels.” This simple but impressive variation to the Plixio Z Style makes it easy for any keyboard to be moved around.
This simple addition made enough of a difference to earn us a recommendation. It’s commendable given that this stand is from a relatively unknown brand. It’s compatible with 54-88 keys from all major brands from Korg, Yamaha, to Roland.
There’s not much difference to the other Z-style stand in terms of features, having a steel frame that accommodates both height and width adjustments. However, what sets it apart is its nifty, supplementary features. You can make it non-wheel version, has a headphone hook, and anchoring straps for securing your keyboard on the stand.
Note that because of the wheels, the height setting is a bit higher by around half an inch, but the incremental adjustments are the same – 1.5 increments from 22.5″ to 33.5″.
Width adjustments are retained at 22.5″ to 33.5″, with 2″ increments.
Unfortunately, in terms of portability, I found its weight a bit heavy and its size, bulky. For the advantage of extra legroom and mobility, this serves as an in-
house stand than a portable one. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can’t carry it around.
Regardless of its limitations, I think this keyboard is long-enduring and versatile for its design. I highly recommend this for players who want a house stand or a mobile option for bar gigs.
- Load capacity: 250 lbs
- Height: Adjustable from 22.5″ to 33.5″ (1.5″ Increments)
- Width: Adjustable from 22.5″ to 33.5″ (2″ Increments)
- Depth: Not Specified
- Construction: Steel Frame
- Weight: 16.12 lbs
2 Tier Keyboard Stands
These are meant to hold two keyboards in a single stand while maintaining stability and adjustability. One of the common themes we see in reviews for keyboard / piano stands with 2 tiers or more is that some musicians aren’t careful enough to prevent over-balancing the top levels by overloading them or by removing a lower keyboard when one is sitting on top.
Best 2 Tier Keyboard Stand – X Style
These are Double Tier Stands (X Style) with attachments to create an extra level. One thing that stood out in our survey data is that double x-style stands are consistently rated lower than their column or z-style counterparts, and that is primarily due to stability issues – the trade-off is that they cost less than the other types and are easier to set up.
Gator Frameworks GFW-KEY-5100X
This two-tier keyboard stand is portable, stable, and can carry the weight of two keyboards. It has a max loading capacity of 175 lbs. Whether you’re combining it with a portable piano at the bottom or a keyboard on top, the GFW-KEY-5100X is a great option.
Pros:
- Double-crossed legs provide excellent stability
- Works on even or uneven surfaces like carpet
- The top tier adjustability
- Easy to set up
- The width of the top tier might not be suitable for smaller controllers or keyboards
- Lacks legroom
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Finding the best keyboard stand that accommodates two keyboards tends to be a hit-and-miss. Adding weight to keyboards could spell disaster if the moving parts and locks of the stand are cheaply made.
The GFW-KEY-5100X saves you from the worry of your keyboards falling to the ground so you can focus more on your performance. This double x stand has a dual brace design to ensure great stability.
Whether you’re playing normally or rocking it out on stage, it remains to be reliable at any height and weight. Its heavy-duty steel construction is more than enough to prevent any movement or vibration from your playing. The rubberized leveling feet also do a great job of preventing any accidental slip-ups.
One thing that’s also commendable about its design is the levels of adjustability you get. It has a special, teeth-like locking mechanism that could be dialled in to your liking.
I’d say the only limitation it has would be the lack of adjustment to accommodate smaller keyboards on top. It also lacks legroom for people who are sitting due to its double x stand design.
For one of the most portable 2 tier keyboard stands, the GFW-KEY-5100X certainly takes a spot in our best keyboard stands list.
- Load capacity: 175 lbs.with Additional 75lb Capacity on Upper Tier
- Height: 22″-38″ (main), 40″-50″ (upper)
- Width: 28.00″
- Depth: Not specified
- Construction: Heavy-duty steel construction
- Weight: 23 lbs
Best 2 Tier Keyboard Stand – Column Style
Although generally more expensive than x-style double stands, column stands typically get higher ratings.
Ultimate Support 17351 APEX AX-48 Pro
This sturdy keyboard stand supports up to 125 lbs per tier and offers attachments for mic, iPad, and laptop mounts, making it versatile for multi-keyboard setups. Minor issues with customer support haven’t impacted its value that much because it’s a really reliable stand overall.
Pros:
- Strong construction and stability, able to support heavy keyboards
- Long-lasting stands that have lasted decades without needing parts replaced
- Sleek, modern look that fits well in home studios and looks professional
- The carrying bag provided is prone to tearing
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We featured this keyboard stand back in 2015 for its ease of use in terms of setting up and breaking down. It’s not the most portable by any means, but it’s among the versatile ones that are still being used today. However, it is praised for its ability to host numerous accessories sold on its website.
You could attach a Mic Stand, Hyperpad iPad Stands, Hypermount Qr Laptop/DJ Stand, and HyperStation QR Stand to mount a wide range of electronic music devices, including laptops.
The AX 48 is also known for being able to handle heavy keyboards. It can carry a maximum of 125 lbs per tier, and it has two tribar arm sizes: one 13-inch and one 18-inch.
It also got a good reputation due to how enduring the parts are for years and even decades. This makes it ideal for seasoned keyboard players who would tour a lot.
The Gearank algorithm would have given this a slightly higher score if it were not for a very small number of customers who were unhappy with customer support and gave it negative reviews. It appears at least one of these had misunderstood the warranty terms and conditions.
However, for the versatile pianist and keyboardist who accompanies with multiple keyboards, it still remains a great option for the best keyboard stand.
- Load capacity: Up to 125 lbs. per tier or 250 lbs. total
- Height: Up to 46″
- Width:
- Depth: 18″ (tier 1), 13″ (tier 2)
- Construction:
- Weight: 19 lbs.
Best 2 Tier Keyboard Stand – Z-Style
These typically have a higher load-bearing capacity over column-style stands – this is important not only if you use 2 heavy keyboards, but also if you want to add a lot of accessories such as laptop holders and microphone stands.
On-Stage KS7365EJ
This double-tier Z-stand provides stable support for 55-key to 88-key keyboards with flexible adjustments, holding up to 60 lbs on the second tier. Its versatility suits musicians using keyboards, DJ gear, and other equipment for performances or studio setups.
Pros:
- Plenty of space for legs and pedals
- Suitable for various keyboard sizes and types
- Even weight distribution
- Adjusting the height could be tricky at times
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As keyboard players, we all seek a keyboard stand that you can dial specifically to your comfortable playing position. This stand accommodates 55-key to 88-key keyboards giving you plenty of legroom and a wide range of adjustments.
Z-stands are known for their stable, even weight distribution. Its 2nd tier is capable of handling 60lbs of weight, and you could adjust its height.
The 2nd tier, of course, is bound to conform to the width of the bottom tier, and it can be a bit tricky if you want to accommodate long and short keyboards at the same time. However, some people put a plank of wood across one of the tiers to hold smaller items so you could place smaller keyboards on it using this method. This, though, isn’t part of the original design.
Musicians have put it to use, holding not only keyboards but also mixing consoles, DJ gear, xylophones, and speakers. It’s especially popular among musicians needing stability for multiple keyboards during performances or studio setups. For the busy musician and DJ, this is among the most versatile and stablest double tier z stands you could get.
- Load capacity: 60 lbs. (top tier), 400 lbs (overall)
- Height: 23.5″ – 36.5″ (1st tier), 9″ – 14″ 10° increments (2nd tier)
- Width: 21″ – 36″ (outer), 19″ – 34″ (inner)
- Depth: 16.5″ (1st tier), 16.25″ (2nd tier)
- Weight: 29 lbs.
Best 3 Tier Keyboard Stand
StandTastic 103KS 60″ A-Frame 3 Tiered Keyboard Stand
This double-tier Z-stand provides stable support for 55-key to 88-key keyboards with flexible adjustments, holding up to 60 lbs on the second tier. Its versatility suits musicians using keyboards, DJ gear, and other equipment for performances or studio setups.
Pros:
- Adjustable height, width, depth, and angle
- Stable 3-tier design with high load capacity
- Can fold into included carry bag for transport
- Good resistance to bounce and wobble
- Adjusting the height could be tricky at times
- Same width for all three tiers
- Complex setup and breakdown
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The StandTastic 103KS lets you use three keyboards securely on a single stand in three adjustable tiers. What makes it special is how versatile it is in terms of adjustability while keeping the structure stable enough to hold 3 keyboards.
All three tiers let you adjust height, angle, width, and depth – something that you won’t get from conventional stand designs. Height adjustments are made via a mounting mechanism that you lock in place in your preferred height position. When mounting the arms, there are three angles to choose from, which expands the stand’s positioning flexibility further. Beneath the arms are screws that let you adjust depth, which allows for handling of thick arranger keyboards. Width adjustment is made on the two mainframes, and it can be adjusted to carry even wide 88-key keyboards.
Given its adjustability, setting up can be quite complicated, especially for first-time users. But once you get more familiar with it, setting up and folding the stand gets easier. Speaking of folding, this big 3-tier stand folds neatly and fits inside the included compact carry bag. This means that the 103KS is suitable for gigging, but you’ll have to spend extra time setting up the stand. There are practical ways of speeding up the process, like by placing marks on your adjustments so it is viable.
Being an A-Frame stand, width adjustments apply to all three tiers, so you will need to use a keyboard tray if you want to mix wide keyboards with a small one.
It can handle up to 70 lbs on each tier, which is quite a lot. Some retailers even mention that it can handle up to 100 lbs per tier. And it does so with minimal bounce and wobbling. More importantly, it remains stable and w even when fully loaded with 3 keyboards.
If you’re looking for a versatile keyboard stand with three-tiers and has good portability, the StandTastic 103KS is for you.
- Load capacity: 70 lb each tier
- Height: Up to 57″
- Width: Up to 36″
- Depth: 12″ to 22″
- Construction: Steel Frame
- Weight: 21 lb
Rating Source Highlights
| Website | Source | *Rating Value |
| YouTube | Honest Gears Review | 92/100 |
Things To Consider When Buying A Keyboard Stand
Strength
One of the first things I always check is strength. If your keyboard is heavy, your stand needs to be even stronger. I’ve seen players try to save a few bucks only to watch their expensive board wobble or worse, hit the floor mid-rehearsal. Some keyboards come bundled with a stand that’s fine for light use, but I still make a habit of checking the weight rating before trusting it. A good rule of thumb is to choose a stand that can handle more than just the weight of your keyboard, since you’re adding pressure every time you play. For bigger rigs, like the ones I use with my best keyboard workstation, reliability is non-negotiable. In general, the lighter and more portable a stand is, the less stable it will feel. The opposite is also true, stronger stands are usually heavier and bulkier, but that’s the tradeoff for peace of mind.
Size and Weight
The size of the stand matters just as much as its strength. I’m tall, and I can tell you that some stands make it nearly impossible to sit and play without knocking my knees on the frame or fighting for pedal space. Always double-check the width adjustment too. If you’re using a smaller keyboard, make sure the stand can actually shrink down far enough; I usually aim for a minimum stand width that’s about four inches less than the keyboard itself. And if you’re stacking keyboards on a second or third tier, confirm that those tiers are rated to handle the weight. Too many players assume the top shelf can take anything, and that’s how things start sagging or sliding.
Adjustability
Adjustability is one of those things you don’t think about until you’re stuck without it. For example, X-stands drop lower as they get wider, which can put your 88-key piano in a great spot for sitting but too low for standing. That’s why some pros just stick with the built-in frame of a stage or grand piano, it keeps the playing position consistent. If you’re mixing different keyboard sizes like I do in the studio, pay close attention to how far a stand lets you tweak height, width, depth, and even arm angles. A basic stand like the Roland KS-12 might be fine for a single board, but once you add more variety, you’ll want more flexibility. And if you’re playing on a table as a DIY option, don’t expect much in the way of adjustments.
Where Will You Be Playing?
Think about your environment before you buy. If you’re gigging regularly, you’ll want a stand that sets up and tears down quickly without a lot of fuss. I’ve used sturdy four-legged stands that feel like tanks on stage, but they take longer to pack up than most column or Z-style options. On the flip side, if your rig is mostly staying at home or in the studio, portability isn’t as important. In that case, I’d lean toward stability every time.
Number of Keyboards
The number of keyboards you use is going to determine the kind of stand you need. If you’re like me and want all your boards right in front of you, a multi-tier stand is the way to go. If you prefer spreading them out, using two stands in an L-shape can work just as well. Either way, plan ahead for how you want your rig laid out before buying.
Stability
With multi-tier setups, balance is everything. I always put my heaviest keyboard on the bottom tier and work my way up with the lighter ones. This keeps the center of gravity where it should be and stops the stand from tipping or rocking. It takes a little extra thought, but stability is worth the effort. Durability also matters, especially if you’re setting up often. Even the toughest stands need some fine-tuning to get locked in just right.
Accessories
A lot of stands today come with optional add-ons for laptops, tablets, mic booms, or extra tiers. These can be incredibly useful, but remember they add weight. Always include the accessories and whatever you’re putting on them in your total load calculation.
Different Kinds of Stands
There are a handful of main stand types you’ll run into: Single X, Double X, Column, Table or T-style, Z-style, and A-frame. The lighter X-stands are budget-friendly but often the least stable, while the larger formats give you rock-solid support at the cost of added bulk. I usually think of it this way: if I’m heading to a gig and need to carry my gear, I’ll pick something more portable. If I’m setting up in the studio where the stand won’t move, I’ll gladly take the heavier option that feels planted.
Best Keyboard Stand Selection Methodology
This guide was first published in 2015. This current edition was published in 2025.
We began our quest to find the best keyboard stands by examining the most popular and highest-rated keyboard stands at major online American retailers. For this edition, we ended up with 41 keyboard stand candidates for in-depth analysis. We then collected and analyzed relevant reviews, ratings and forum discussions, which tallied to over 71,200 sources, this almost doubled compared to the previous edition. All these data were then fed into the Gearank Algorithm to create a Gearank Rating score out of 100 for each stand. Finally, we selected the best keyboard stands to recommend within each category. For further information about our methods, see
At church, we always put the keyboard back in storage after use, so for a long time, we’ve been using easy-to-fold double-braced X stands. At home, I’ve tried different Z-style and cabinet stands, but I’ve reverted to a double-braced X stand since it saves space and is easier to move.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
At church, we always put the keyboard back in storage after use, so for a long time, we’ve been using easy-to-fold double-braced X stands. I’ve tried different stands, everything from Z-style and cabinet stands, but I’ve reverted to a double-braced X stand since it saves space and is easier to move.
Contributors
Allen Articulo: Supplemental Writing and Research.
Jerry Borillo: Research
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Compiled using photographs of the Quik-Lok Z-726, K&M 18860, and Quiklok T-22.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers
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Comments:
19 responses
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These stands came off the recommended list when we published the October 2022 Edition:
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Publication of our February 2022 Edition resulted in the following stands coming off the recommended list above:
- Gibraltar GKS-KT76 Key Tree 2-Tier Column
- Hercules KS210B 2-Tier X Style
- K&M 18820 Omega Pro Table Style
- Knox Gear KN-KS03 Z Style
- On-Stage KS7190 Classic Single X
- Plixio/Liquid Stands Z Style
- Plixio/Liquid Stands Z Style w/ Wheels
- Quik-Lok QL742 2 Tier X Style
- RockJam Xfinity Double-X
- Sequenz Standard-L-SV Large A-Frame
- World Tour DXKS Double X
- World Tour SXKS Single X
- Yamaha PKBS1 Single X
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Our March 2021 update resulted in the following stands coming off the recommend list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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Where can I find replacement parts for Stay Tower 1300 3-Tier Keyboard Stand? Looking for Tower Flexible Rod for Microphone and 2 sets of Tower Arms Curved 290mm+Angle Base Tower.
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As a result of our March 2020 update, the following stands came off the recommended list above, but you can still read our analysis of them:
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I decided to publish our rating for it – it’s not quite high enough to go on our recommended list – see the current rating here: Rockville RKS30X.
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Where can I get a stand with the second tier adjustable down to two to three inches above my main keyboard. These second and third tiers are really for show, in bands. I do a single act. Need the other keyboard right above the main. If I could put another keyboard on the main it would be perfect. But as you know with all the buttons etc it is not possible. I play a Motif XF7. Help.
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Yes. Definitely the K&M Spider Pro. I own one and love it. Only wish they made a 3 tier. However, you can buy a 3rd arm and add it in. It’s a little tight for me but if you want your keyboards stacked tightly together, the K&M is your stand. Well-made, German engineered. A little pricey but well worth it.
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Thanks for the summary. You’ve missed the pro stand that everyone in Europe loves and is gaining traction in the US – Jaspers made in Germany. We have to order them from Europe but that’s no big issue. They are sold direct and through the major music dealers like Thomann, Musicstore.de and recommended on Gearslutz and Jason Rudness. All aluminum, adjustable, sort of portable and built to last. http://www.jaspers-alu.de/
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Thanks for the tip Stephen. We didn’t accidentally ‘miss’ Jaspers, we deliberately only included brands that were widely available from US retailers at the time. If they become widely available in the USA then we will include them in our product research when we next update this guide.
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Thanks for the tip Brett.
I’ve had a look around and most retailers don’t sell it – in fact I only found 4 reviews which isn’t enough for it to have a Gearank score, so we won’t be able to include it unless more shops sell it.
For anyone who’s interested, you can get more information on the QL-723 at https://www.quiklok.com/product/ql-723-pro-series-keyboard-stand/
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I own the QL-723. I’ve had issues with this stand after maybe 6 times out on gigs. First, the screws on the “X” part of the stand or the base that holds up the 2nd tier could not tighten very well thus causing the 2nd and 3rd tiers to be shakey. I eventually stripped out the screws and the receiver nut inside the frame on a gig. Fortunately for me, there was a Home Depot close by so I was able to purchase threaded rods and slipped them through the receiver and put wingnuts at both ends so that I could keep the 2nd tier stable. Speaking of the 2nd tier, the screws holding up the arms have stripped out as well which won’t stop the keyboard on the second tier from falling onto the keyboard on the first tier. I have three phone calls and an email into QuikLok to inquire about replacement parts but their customer service department has yet to call me back. Would I buy another one of these stands or recommend them? Probably not unless they come up with a better design to prevent the screws from stripping out.
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About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Alexander Briones
I have been writing about and researching music gear for many years, all while serving as a music director at my local church. I engage in guitar playing and singer-songwriter stints, in addition to mentoring young musicians and teaching guitar and bass.
At church, we always put the keyboard back to storage after using, so for a long time we’ve been using easy to fold double-braced X stands. At home, I’ve tried different z-style and cabinet stands, but I’ve reverted to a double-braced X stand since it saves space and is easier to move.
Contributors
Allen Articulo: Co-writer and Product Research.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: Compiled using photographs of the Quik-Lok Z-726, K&M 18860 and Quiklok T-22.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers
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