Best
Stage Piano
-
Overall: Same Realistic Key Mechanism as Roland's Top Upright Pianos
-
Best Feature: Dual Sound Engines for the Most Authentic Voices
-
TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Console Piano
-
Overall: Unrivalled Acoustic Experience
-
Best Feature: Play the Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Imperial in One Piano
-
TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Portable Piano
-
Overall: Improved Action with New Responsive Hammer Compact Action
-
Best Feature: Bluetooth Audio Allows for Streaming Device Audio Through Piano Speakers
-
TedScore™: 8/10
In this digital piano buyer’s guide, I’ll help you find the perfect instrument for you. I’ve got you covered, from understanding key features to making sense of pricing.
Digital pianos come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges, making it crucial to know what to look for before you invest. With so many factors like sound quality, key sensitivity, and additional features in play, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
Follow along, and by the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best digital piano. Let’s make your musical journey a joyful one!
BEST DIGITAL PIANO BRANDS
Some of the best digital piano brands include Yamaha, Kawai, and Roland. These brands are known for making high-quality digital pianos that are easy to use and have many features.
If you’re looking for a high-quality digital piano, the following brands are a good place to start.
Yamaha
Yamaha is a Japanese brand that makes a wide range of musical instruments, including digital pianos. Yamaha digital pianos are known for their amazing sound quality, easy-to-use interface, and wide range of features.
Nord
Nord is a Swedish company that makes some of the best digital pianos on the market, and their instruments are used by professional musicians all over the world. Nord offers a wide range of digital pianos, from entry-level to top-of-the-line models.
Korg
Korg is a Japanese company that has been in business since 1963 and makes a variety of electronic instruments, including synthesisers, workstations, drum machines, and digital pianos.
Korg digital pianos are some of the best in the business. They’re known for their realistic sound and feel, as well as their user-friendly interface.
Kawai
Kawai is a Japanese brand that has been making pianos for over 80 years. They are one of the most respected brands in the industry.
Kawai digital pianos are known for their realistic sound and feel, and they are used by many professional musicians.
Roland
Roland is another Japanese company. The brand really excels in its design of musical instruments, including, of course, digital pianos.
What sets them apart is their development of not just the feel of playing the instrument, but also the sound quality and samples.
Gear4Music
Gear4Music are an unusual choice to put into this list. Fundamentally, they are a musical instrument shop selling all the major brands; but they also have their own line of instruments. Can their digital pianos match up to the major manufacturers above? No. But I’m adding them to this list anyway because as a starter instrument, they are totally brilliant and very cost-effective.
Casio
Lastly, you’ll notice we haven’t included any Casio keyboards on my list. We are not a big fan of Casio instruments; we feel they are not well made (compared with others), and the sounds are by far the least unrealistic compared with other major manufacturers. So Casio, for us, is a brand to avoid.
Weighted keys vs non-weighted keys
The keys on digital pianos can either be:
- Fully weighted (Hammer Action)
- Semi-weighted
- Non-weighted
Fully Weighted keys (Hammer Action)
A hammer action keyboard imitates the touch and feel of an acoustic piano. Manufacturers place little hammers under each key to replicate mechanical motion similar to an acoustic piano to achieve this. Not all hammer action keyboards, however, are made equal.
Digital Pianos with a hammer action can be found on an entry-level instrument and a high-end model, but each will have its own unique feel and level of realism. Generally speaking, the more money you spend, the better the technology; and the better technology equals a better, more realistic hammer system.
Higher-end keyboards have real wooden keys with a mechanism that replicates every aspect of an acoustic piano action, including the hammers themselves.
I can’t emphasise enough how critical it is to practice on a fully weighted keyboard rather than a semi-weighted or non-weighted one if your goal is to learn piano playing. The only way to develop adequate finger strength and technique is with this sort of key action. It will also make it considerably simpler to move on to an acoustic piano later on.
Piano players generally prefer weighted keys, as they provide a more authentic playing experience. So if you are looking to recreate an acoustic piano, then without a doubt, go for a fully weighted key option.
Semi-weighted keys
A semi-weighted action feels similar to a synth action, but has somewhat greater resistance and improved control. It employs the same spring-loaded mechanism as the synth action, but the keys feel heavier owing to stiffer springs or additional weights. As a result, the keys return to their “up” position more slowly.
It’s somewhere in between synth action and fully weighted action, making it ideal for people who don’t want the heavier feel of hammer action or those who frequently swap between piano and non-piano samples.
Keyboardists who frequently switch between piano and non-piano sounds often prefer non-weighted keys because they require less effort to play.
Non-weighted keys
Non-weighted keys are easier to play than weighted or hammer action keys and are better suited for fast-paced or repetitive playing, particularly if you are playing other sounds than piano (for instance, Hammond organ sounds).
Keep in mind that if you want to eventually transition to playing acoustic piano, you will need to get used to the heavier feel of weighted keys. It’s for this reason we don’t really recommend non-weighted keys.
Considerations when buying a good digital piano
Keyboard size
Digital pianos come in a variety of keyboard sizes. The most common size is 88 keys, the same as a standard grand piano. But you can also find beginner digital pianos with 76 keys, 61 keys, and even fewer.
The number of keys you need depends on your level of expertise and what you’ll be using the piano for. You may be OK with a smaller keyboard if you’re a beginner. But if you’re an experienced player or plan on using the piano for complex pieces, you’ll need a full-sized keyboard.
Sound quality
The sound quality of a digital piano is an important consideration. You’ll want to make sure that the piano sounds realistic and has a good range of sounds and effects.
Sensitivity and response of keys
Another important consideration is the sensitivity and response of the keys. You’ll want to make sure that the keys are responsive and have a good range of velocity (the speed at which you strike the key).
Some digital pianos have Ivory Feel or Hammer Action keys, which simulate the feel of an acoustic piano. These are generally more expensive, but they provide a more authentic playing experience.
Pedals
Digital pianos usually come with pedals, but not all pedals are created equal! The most important pedal is the sustain pedal, which sustains the sound of a note when you press it.
The left pedal of a piano is called the Una Corda, and it’s usually used for softer passages – it makes the piano a little quieter.
The middle pedal is ‘a bonus’. It’s absolutely not a necessity, and it shouldn’t factor in your choice. We talk a little more about pedals below.
Built-in speakers
A lot of digital pianos come with built-in speakers. This can be handy if you don’t have an amplifier or if you want to be able to practice without disturbing others.
Portability
If you’re going to be moving the digital piano around, you’ll need to consider portability. Some digital pianos are designed to be portable, while others are not. If portability is important to you, look for a digital piano that is light and easy to carry.
Digital piano features
Recording capability
One of the great things about digital pianos is that you can record your playing. This is a helpful feature for both practice and performance.
Polyphony
Polyphony is the number of notes that a digital piano can play simultaneously. If you’re going to be playing complex pieces or using the piano for recording, you’ll need a piano with high polyphony. Remember, notes held with a sustain pedal count towards polyphony!
Amplification
One of the most important considerations for a digital piano is amplification. Some digital pianos have built-in speakers, while others need to be connected to an external amplifier.
Ease of use
If you’re a beginner just starting to learn, you’ll want a digital piano that is easy to use and has many features that can help you learn. If you’re an experienced player, you’ll want a digital piano that is easy to use but has all the necessary features.
ACCESSORIES
Stand
Some digital pianos come with a stand, but others do not. If you’re planning to get a stand, make sure it’s compatible with your digital piano.
Pedals
The sustain pedal is the most common type of pedal used with digital pianos. It is usually placed on the right side of the piano and is operated by your right foot. The sustain pedal sustains (or prolongs) the sound of the notes that are being played.
The soft pedal (sometimes called the Una Corda) is usually placed on the left side of the piano and is operated by your left foot.
The sostenuto pedal is usually placed in the middle of the piano and is operated by your right foot. The sostenuto pedal sustains (or prolongs) the sound of the notes that are being played, but only for the notes that are being held down when the pedal is pressed.
Bench/Stool
A bench or stool is absolutely essential for playing the piano. You can gain a bad technique very quickly by sitting at the incorrect height. In fact, we have created a diagram of how to sit at a piano. So a height-adjustable piano stool is very important.
We love the Roland RPB-500 – it looks great, is comfortable, and is fully heigh adjustable.
HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE: Yes
KEY CHARACTERISTICS: Durable and stable Roland bench, with a 4-inch height-adjustable mechanism and superior cushioning.
FEATURES: The vinyl seat hides a storage compartment.
Roland RPB-500RW Piano Bench
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Stable structure and adaptable
- Superior cushioning
- Storage compartment
- Fairly pricey
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Case
A case is not essential, but it’s a good idea to get one if you plan to travel with your digital piano.
Headphones
If you want to play the digital piano without making any noise, you’ll need a decent pair of headphones. We have a fab article here discussing the different types of headphones.
Headphones are one of those accessories that, although you can get cheaper models easily, it’s worth spending a decent amount from a well-known manufacturer. Just make sure you know what jack output is on your instrument!
We love the Shure SRH840A’s. They sound great, are really comfortable for a long period of time, and they look really cool too!
SUITABLE FOR: Practising on digital pianos
COMES WITH: 40mm dynamic neodymium drivers
FEATURES: Collapsible headphones with removable ear pads. Closed-back design that reduces the background noise. The headphones are light with cushioned earpads.
Shure SRH840A Professional Headphones
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- High-range quality sound
- Comfortable headphones on the ear
- Expensive for a digital piano beginner
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Types of digital piano
There are three main types of digital pianos:
- Stage pianos
- Keyboard workstations
- Portable pianos
Stage pianos
Stage pianos are designed for live performances. They typically have a heavy build quality to cope with the rigours of touring.
Like most digital pianos, stage pianos focus on acoustic piano sounds and realistic touch response to make them feel as close to a real acoustic piano as possible.
The models we recommend are:
DESIGNED FOR: Professional Live Musician
COMES WITH: Dual Sound Engines Provide Authentic Voices
FEATURES: Access to the NEW Roland Cloud for Extensive Sound Library
Roland RD-2000
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Includes Roland 3 Year UK Warranty
- Controls and casing are hard wearing and reliable for long-lasting durability
- Amazing keyboard feel
- Quite heavy at 21.7kg
- Small display
- A little pricey (but you do pay for quality)
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Professional Musician
COMES WITH: Easy to carry, easy to use, and easily an outstanding sound
FEATURES: Play with expression with the Natural Wood Graded Hammer key action
Yamaha CP88 Stage Piano
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Features world-class sounds of the Yamaha CFX, Yamaha S700 and Bosendorfer Imperial 290
- Fully equipped with a perfect set of connectors, it's tailor-made for stage applications
- Individual keys are made with a springless design for the most consistent feel
- Fairly lightweight at 18.6kg
- Great connectivity
- Brilliant piano sounds (particularly the Bosendorfer)
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Professional Musician
COMES WITH: Includes Kawai 5 Year European warranty
FEATURES: Includes GFP-3 Triple Pedal Unit
Kawai MP11SE
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- The Grand Feel System is favoured by musicians requiring a natural feel in a home-friendly size
- It combines the playability of an acoustic piano with the portability of a stage keyboard
- Amazing 5-year warranty
- Very good price to quality ratio
- Great to have a triple pedal unit
- VERY heavy! 34kg
- Due to its weight, not as portable as others on the market
- A limited number of other sounds
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Professional Musician
COMES WITH: 72 built-in sounds
FEATURES: Great organ sounds
Korg SV-2
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Much lighter than others at 20kg
- Fabulous sounds
- Amazing design and looks
- Requires using external software to get the most out of the instrument
- Onboard settings a limited
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Console digital pianos
Console digital pianos are designed for home use. They are the closest to an acoustic piano in terms of the major features such as sound, feel, and appearance. They differ from their portable counterparts in that they include a furniture-style cabinet and usually three pedals that mimic the feel and look of an acoustic piano.
You won’t need to buy a stand or pedals separately as they are fixed within the cabinet.
Most console pianos are heavy and are meant to stay in one place. Of course, you can move them around if needed, but you definitely wouldn’t call them portable! These are also the models that are most suited to classical players.
Models we recommend:
Beginner to Intermediate
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner Musician
COMES WITH: Incredibly authentic touch and response
FEATURES: The sounds of a painstakingly sampled Yamaha CFX piano - Yamaha's flagship concert grand
Yamaha YDP-145
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Well known, trusted brand
- Good value for money
- The feel of the keyboard action is great for the price
- No Bluetooth
- No screen
- Fairly basic instrument
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: All level Musicians
COMES WITH: 88 key digital upright piano ideal for living spaces
FEATURES: Play with expression thanks to a three-pedal unit and 128-note polyphony
DP-12 by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Incredible value for money and price against the 'big players'
- Great looking, modern designed musical instrument
- Nice to see a triple pedal in a cheaper instrument like its acoustic counterparts
- Nice to see a triple pedal in a cheaper instrument like its acoustic counterparts
- Super sounds for the price
- Ideal for pianists just starting piano lessons
- Choice of three colours
- None - if you're looking for an instrument on a shoe-string budget, this fits the bill
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
modern home
DESIGNED FOR: New Musicians
COMES WITH: True acoustic details with Roland's SuperNATURAL Piano technology
FEATURES: Fits easily into any room
Roland F701
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Accurate sampling across the whole range
- Small footprint
- Usual, well-built quality and style from this brand
- Features Roland's Headphone 3D Ambience feature is very cool!
- Can't compete with the more expensive Roland models - but it's not a bad instrument at all
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: New Musicians
COMES WITH: OLED display offers an intuitive visual aid
FEATURES: Fits easily into any room thanks to its compact size and sleek black color
Kawai CN29
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- 5-year warranty
- Built-in lesson function ideal for helping with practice
- Good tone personalisation available with the great OLED screen
- You'll need an iPad to get into the advanced mode to make serious changes to the instrument
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: New Musicians
COMES WITH: Bluetooth connectivity
FEATURES: RH3 Graded Hammer Action for a responsive playing experience
Korg G1 Air
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Very slim and stylish
- Good price
- The quality of the keyboard action cannot compete with more expensive models
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Intermediate to Advanced
for the Home
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: SuperNATURAL Sound Modelling for Authentic real piano Sound
FEATURES: Bluetooth connectivity
Roland DP603
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Fabulous looking instrument
- Great connectivity
- Very well built
- Class-leading warranty
- Reasonably priced
- There are other instruments on the market that feel a little nicer to play
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: Fully weighted 88 note triple-sensor keyboard, with an acoustic ivory-feel finish
FEATURES: Bluetooth connectivity, plus USB audio and MIDI connectivity
GDP-500 by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- The lowest price among the leading brands
- This is a classic style that looks right
- Unlike most other digital pianos, this comes with a deluxe adjustable stool
- Massive sound library
- For both beginners and experts, it's ideal
- 3-year warranty
- This is a superb 'hybrid' instrument that provides a lot of features for an excellent price
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: Yamaha 5-year warranty
FEATURES: With Bluetooth, connect your smartphone to a series of bespoke apps
Yamaha CLP-745
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Well built
- Great 5-year warranty
- Highly regarded brand
- Great samples and feel
- Not the prettiest instruments ever made
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: Yamaha CFX and the Bösendorfer Imperial are the two incredible instruments inside this piano
FEATURES: Two legendary concert grand voices in the one instrument
Yamaha AvantGrand N1X
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Simply the best and most realistic samples of real grand pianos
- Very high-quality build
- Most realistic playing experience of any digital instrument
- Perfect for classical pianists
- Very expensive - but I would also argue you get what you pay for!
- Very big - so you need the space
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Keyboard workstations
Arranger Digital Pianos or Keyboard workstations are designed for semi-professional use. They typically have a large range of sounds and features, and they often come with a built-in sequencer.
With a huge range of built-in music, rhythms, songs, tones, and effects, these workstations can expand your creativity. It’s essentially a whole music studio in one instrument! And as a result, they can be quite complicated versus the simpler stage, portable or console pianos.
Models we recommend:
going digital
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: Bluetooth connectivity gives you new possibilities on your piano
FEATURES: Acoustic playing feel
Yamaha DGX-670
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Great set of sounds
- Fun instruments and tools onboard
- Built quality feels a little 'plastic'
- Onboard speakers could be better
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: A decent stand and single pedal
FEATURES: Styles functionality provides rich accompaniment
Korg XE20
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A fun instrument from a well-known maker
- Nicely designed cabinet style stand
- Good samples
- The screen can be a bit confusing and looks very out of date
- Due to the cabinet stand, it's not very portable
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Portable pianos
Portable pianos are the most lightweight and compact type of digital piano. They’re perfect for travelling or for smaller spaces.
Portable keyboards do not include a base or stand, but because of this, they can be moved around and stored when not in use. Portable digital pianos, like acoustic pianos, usually have a complete 88 hammer-action keyboard range.
Models we recommend:
Beginner to Intermediate
DESIGNED FOR: Advance Musicians
COMES WITH: Quality tone with the ground-breaking Pure CF Sound Engine
FEATURES: Natural piano feel
Yamaha P-125
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Compact piano with simple design
- Only 12kg in weight
- High-quality samples
- 192-note polyphony
- No Bluetooth
- Not the best keyboard action
- A limited array of sounds
- Does not include a sustain pedal
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
and for the stage
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner Musicians
COMES WITH: External devices with Bluetooth MIDI connectivity
FEATURES: Responsive Hammer Compact action offers an authentic touch
Kawai ES110
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight at only 12kg
- The fully weighted keyboard action is superb
- 192-note polyphony
- Bluetooth
- Includes sustain pedal
- No USB functionality
- No screen
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
keyboard action
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner Musicians
COMES WITH: Roland 2-year European warranty
FEATURES: The Ivory Feel coating on the white keys is a moisture-absorbing material
Roland FP-30X
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lovely keys to play on
- Brilliant piano sound
- Good onboard speakers
- Bluetooth
- Heavier than other models (14.8kg)
- No line-out jack, which could be a massive dealbreaker for some
- Customization is limited
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner Musicians
COMES WITH: Stereo RCA outputs and MIDI over USB
FEATURES: Built-in stereo speakers and headphone output for silent practice
SDP-2 Portable Stage
Piano by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Very portable, at only 8kg
- Well built for the cost
- Good additional features, like an onboard metronome
- Great connections for performing with a PA
- Polyphony is limited
- Only eight sounds to choose from
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Intermediate-Advanced
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate Musicians
COMES WITH: Comes with Stereo RCA outputs and MIDI over USB
FEATURES: Built-in stereo speakers and headphone output for silent practice
Roland FP-90X
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Fabulous connectivity
- Massive polyphony
- Brilliant keyboard feel with the Ivory simulation
- A powerful onboard speaker system
- Heavy compared with other models (24kg)
- Onboard MIDI-recorder is very basic
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
stage or in the house
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate Musicians
COMES WITH: Bluetooth audio connectivity
FEATURES: Improved Responsive Hammer Compact action
Kawai ES120
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- 25 high-quality sounds
- 192-note polyphony
- Superb hammer action keys
- Bluetooth
- Only 12.5kg
- Onboard speakers are a little underwhelming
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
compromise
DESIGNED FOR: Intermediate Musicians
COMES WITH: Enhanced Virtual Resonance Modelling gives you a superior, aliquot effect
FEATURES: Beautiful synthetic Ivory surface with textured synthetic Ebony black keys
Yamaha P-515
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Usual Yamaha quality of keyboard action
- Sampling of the Yamaha CFX and Bösendorfer Concert Grand is excellent
- Built-in USB audio interface
- Onboard speakers have a decent power (40W)
- Interesting idea of using binaural samples
- Bluetooth does not support MIDI
- Heavy at 22kg
- Lack of onboard settings
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Digital Piano Buyer’s Guide
Summary
I hope this guide has clarified the journey to finding your ideal digital piano. It’s a slice of the musical world that’s as exciting as rewarding.
Remember, it’s essential to consider what you’re looking for in a digital piano. Here’s a nifty breakdown:
- Budget: Know what you’re comfortable spending.
- Purpose: Are you practicing, performing, or recording?
- Features: Weighted keys, sound quality, connectivity.
No digital piano is perfect, but there’s one out there that’s perfect for you. Happy playing!
While I appreciate the comprehensive list of digital piano brands, I believe it’s critical to emphasize the importance of weighted keys for those transitioning from acoustic to digital. The feel of the keys plays a significant role in replicating the traditional piano experience, which is crucial for maintaining proper technique and expression. Beginners might overlook this aspect when choosing their first instrument, potentially hindering their development. It would be beneficial to delve deeper into the mechanics behind different key actions to aid in a more informed decision.
Not sure if I agree with Gear4Music being on the best brands list. When we’re talking about digital pianos, isn’t the focus supposed to be on sound quality and key responsiveness? I’d argue that brands like Yamaha and Roland have a much more sophisticated technology backing them up. Sure, Gear4Music might be okay for beginners, but it doesn’t quite stack up for serious musicians or tech enthusiasts like myself. Just my two cents though.
yo quick q – for someone making beats, which piano u think cuts it best? digital feel’s important but i wanna keep it real too
Hey Robert Emery, I gotta say I really enjoyed your breakdown on the best digital piano brands! Yamaha and Casio have always been my go-to’s because of their rich sound quality and the fact that they just get what musicians need. It’s cool to see them get some well-deserved recognition. Your article’s a great starting point for anyone diving into the world of digital pianos!
I second that, SunnyRay93. Yamaha has never let me down. There’s just something about the craftsmanship that stands out.