Best
Overall Digital
Piano
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Overall: With GrandTouch Keyboard With Wooden Keys, Synthetic Ebony, And Ivory Keytops For A Realistic Touch And Feel
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Best Feature: Combined Yamaha CFX And Bosendorfer Imperial Piano Samples For A Rich, Expressive Sound
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Portable Digital
Piano
Digital Piano A DIGITAL PIANO WITH SUPERB EXPRESSION
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Overall: With Powerful Speakers That Offer A Room-Filling Resonance
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Best Feature: Gives The Sound Experience Of Kawai's Professional Grand Pianos
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TedScore™: 8.6/10
Best
Beginner Digital
Piano
Digital Piano BEST FOR IDEAL SOUND IN ALL VOLUMES
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Overall: Boasts A Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) Keyboard With Matte Keytops For A Realistic Piano Feel
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Best Feature: Features A Yamaha CFX Concert Grand Piano Sound As A Built-In Voice
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TedScore™: 10/10
If you’re in the market for a digital piano, you’ve likely come across two of the biggest names in the piano industry: Kawai and Yamaha.
But if I ran a competition of Kawai Digital Piano vs Yamaha, which brand would win?
Yamaha is a well-established brand producing upright pianos now for over a century.
On the other hand, Kawai is a relatively newer brand that has been around since the 1920s.
Both brands are known for their high-quality instruments, but which one is the right choice for you?
In this article, I’ll look closer at the similarities and differences between Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos so that you can make an informed decision.
So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pianist, read on to find out which brand might be the right choice for you!
The Kawai Digital Piano
Kawai is a Japanese Company with a long history of producing high-quality acoustic keyboards and digital pianos. Their digital pianos are renowned for their craftsmanship and sound quality, making them a popular choice for both beginners and professionals.
One of the standout features of Kawai digital pianos is their sound quality. Kawai uses advanced sampling technology to capture the sound of their acoustic pianos and reproduce it in their digital pianos. This means you get a rich, full-bodied sound indistinguishable from an acoustic piano. The sound is further enhanced by Kawai’s speaker systems, designed to reproduce the nuances and subtleties of the piano’s acoustic sound well.
Kawai digital pianos also have features that make them versatile and easy to use. One of these features is the split mode, which allows you to split the keyboard into two sections and play different sounds in each section. This is great for duets or for playing with a piano teacher together.
Kawai piano digital pianos also come with a damper resonance feature, which simulates the sound of the strings resonating in an acoustic piano when you press the damper pedal.
In terms of craftsmanship, Kawai digital pianos are built to last. They use high-quality materials and are designed to withstand the rigours of regular use. The keys are weighted and graded, meaning they feel like a real piano and respond to your touch similarly. This makes them ideal for practising and performing.
The Kawai digital piano will give you the sound and feel of an acoustic piano in a compact and versatile package.
The Yamaha Digital Piano
Yamaha is a well-known brand that has been around for many years when it comes to digital pianos. Yamaha has a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable and durable musical instruments.
One of the key features of Yamaha digital pianos is their craftsmanship. Yamaha takes great pride in the quality of their instruments, and it shows in the attention to detail that is put into each one.
Yamaha uses a pure CF sound engine in their digital pianos, producing a rich, full-bodied sound reminiscent of a traditional acoustic piano. The dynamic range of Yamaha pianos is also impressive, allowing for a wide range of expression and nuance in your playing.
Another great feature of Yamaha digital pianos is their Built-in Piano Lessons. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, Yamaha pianos offer a variety of lessons and exercises to help you improve your skills. A metronome feature is also great for practising timing and rhythm.
These also offer a range of piano sounds, including grand, electric, and more. The sustain feature is also a nice touch, allowing you to hold notes for longer periods of time. The GHS and Responsive Hammer Compact action are well-rounded, providing a comfortable and responsive playing experience.
Yamaha digital pianos are a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable instrument with a range of features and excellent sound quality.
Why Should You Buy a
Digital Piano?
Convenience
One of the best things about owning a digital piano is that you can play it whenever you want without worrying about disturbing anyone. Digital pianos come with headphones, so you can practice without disturbing your family or neighbours. They’re also much lighter than acoustic pianos, which makes them easier to move around.
Affordability
Digital pianos are generally much cheaper than acoustic pianos. This makes them an excellent choice for beginners who don’t want to spend much money on an instrument they’re not sure they’ll stick with.
Versatility
Digital pianos come with a range of features that acoustic pianos don’t have. For example, they often have various sounds and voices, which means you can experiment with different genres of music. They also have recording capabilities, meaning you can listen to your playing and track your progress.
Which Piano Brand is Best for Beginners?
When choosing between Kawai and Yamaha, both brands have their strengths. However, if you’re a beginner, then Yamaha might be the better choice.
Yamaha digital pianos tend to have a brighter tone, which can be easier on the ears of beginners. They also have a range of affordable models that are perfect for those who are just starting out.
Kawai digital pianos have a warmer, fuller tone, which some people prefer. If you’re an experienced pianist, then you might prefer Kawai.
Comparison of Flagship Models: Kawai and Yamaha
Regarding digital pianos, Kawai and Yamaha are two of the most popular brands on the market. Both brands offer a wide range of models, but their flagship models are the Kawai CA99 and the Yamaha CLP-795GP. In this section, we’ll compare these two models in terms of sound quality, key action, features and functions, design and aesthetics, availability, and price range.
Sound Quality
Kawai and Yamaha brands are known for producing realistic and expressive piano tones comparable to traditional acoustic pianos.
Kawai digital pianos are often praised for their warm and rich sound, achieved through their Harmonic Imaging technology and advanced sampling techniques. On the other hand, Yamaha digital pianos are known for their bright and clear sound, thanks to their Pure CF Sound Engine and advanced sound processing capabilities.
Key Action
Kawai digital pianos are known for their Responsive Hammer Action, which replicates the feel of an acoustic piano by using hammers and weights to simulate the touch of the keys. This action is designed to offer a smooth and natural playing experience, making it a popular choice among pianists requiring high precision and control.
On the other hand, Yamaha digital pianos feature Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) or Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) key actions, designed to mimic the feel of an acoustic piano by providing heavier touch in the lower register and lighter touch in the higher register. This allows for a more natural and expressive playing experience, making Yamaha digital pianos popular among musicians of all skill levels.
Features and Functions
Kawai and Yamaha digital pianos offer various features and functions that can enhance your playing experience.
Kawai digital pianos are known for their innovative technology and advanced features, such as their Harmonic Imaging sound engine, Virtual Technician function, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features allow for a high level of customization and control over the sound and performance of the instrument, making it a popular choice among serious classical pianists and recording artists.
While Yamaha digital pianos offer a wide range of features and functions that cater to musicians of all levels and playing styles, these include advanced sound processing capabilities, built-in rhythms and accompaniments, recording and playback functions, and a range of connectivity options. Yamaha digital pianos are also known for their user-friendly interfaces and intuitive controls, making them a popular choice for beginners and casual players.
Design and Aesthetics
Regarding design and aesthetics, Kawai and Yamaha’s digital pianos offer sleek and stylish instruments that can complement any home decor.
Kawai digital pianos are known for their modern and minimalist design, with clean lines and simple shapes that give them a contemporary look. In comparison, Yamaha digital pianos offer a more traditional and classic design, with elegant curves and ornate details that give them a timeless look.
Both brands offer a range of finishes, including satin, black, white, and various wood grains, to suit different styles and settings.
Availability and Price Range
Kawai and Yamaha’s digital pianos are widely available in music stores and online retailers.
Yamaha digital pianos tend to be more widely distributed and available at a wider range of price points, making them popular among musicians of all levels and budgets. They offer a range of models, from entry-level to high-end, with varying features and functions to suit different needs.
On the other hand, Kawai digital pianos are often considered more exclusive and higher-end, with a narrower range of models and a higher price point. They’re designed to cater to serious pianists and recording artists who demand high quality and performance from their digital instruments.
Best Digital Pianos from Kawai
PERFECT FOR: student pianists
FEATURES: Has improved action with new Responsive Hammer Compact action
OTHER INFO: Comes with extra instruments, including an SK-EX grand piano
Kawai ES120 Digital 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!
- Bluetooth audio allows for streaming device audio through piano speakers
- With extra speaker size and brand new spatial headphone audio for better quality
- Lightweight and portable design, making it easy to transport
- Limited sound selection compared to other digital pianos in the same price range
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™.
PERFECT FOR: players of all levels
FEATURES: Gives the sound experience of Kawai's professional grand pianos
OTHER INFO: With powerful speakers that offer a room-filling resonance
Kawai ES920 Digital 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!
- Weighted action for a natural and authentic feel
- Includes Kawai's 5-year European warranty
- The perfect piano for every occasion
- Quite heavy at 34kg and not as portable as other models
- The number of available sounds on this digital piano 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™.
PERFECT FOR: professional musicians
FEATURES: Durable metal frame suitable for the transportation
OTHER INFO: Grand Feel Key Action replicates the touch of a grand piano
Kawai MP11SE 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!
- Comes with a GFP-3 Triple Pedal Unit
- With a Virtual Technician app allows you to fine-tune the sound and response
- Offers studio-grade functions in a performance-friendly instrument
- Includes Kawai 5-Year European warranty
- Relatively expensive compared to other digital piano 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™.
Best Digital Pianos from Yamaha
PERFECT FOR: intermediate to advanced level players
FEATURES: Wooden white keys provide an unparalleled feel of grand pianos
OTHER INFO: Comes with all-new CFX and Bösendorfer samples
Yamaha CLP 745 Digital 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 historically accurate pianoforte samples
- Available Bluetooth MIDI and audio technology
- Includes a Yamaha 5-year warranty
- With three months of Flowkey Premium
- higher price range, may not be suitable for musicians on a tight budget
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™.
PERFECT FOR: beginners and intermediate players
FEATURES: Combined Yamaha CFX and Bosendorfer Imperial piano samples for a rich, expressive sound
OTHER INFO: With GrandTouch keyboard with wooden keys, synthetic ebony, and ivory keytops for a realistic touch and feel
Yamaha N1X AvantGrand Hybrid Digital 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!
- Has Spatial Acoustic Sampling technology for a natural, immersive sound that simulates the experience of playing in a concert hall
- Beloved for all-wood grand piano key actions
- Add class to any room with grand piano curves
- Includes three months of Flowkey Premium
- Has a limited number of sounds and features compared to higher-end digital piano 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™.
PERFECT FOR: beginners to intermediate players
FEATURES: Boasts a Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) keyboard with matte keytops for a realistic piano feel
OTHER INFO: Features a Yamaha CFX concert grand piano sound as a built-in voice
Yamaha YDP 145 Digital 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!
- Has 88 weighted keys for an expressive playing feel
- Provides a genuine and realistic sound and playing experience
- With a user-friendly interface that's easy-to-navigate
- No available Bluetooth connection
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™.
Kawai Digital Piano vs Yamaha
Summary
So, after diving deep into the Kawai vs Yamaha digital piano rivalry, what’s the verdict? Well, it’s not that simple. Both brands have their strengths and weaknesses; ultimately, the choice between them will come down to personal preference.
Kawai may be the right choice if you’re looking for a digital piano with advanced technology and powerful output. On the other hand, if you want a piano with reverb and bass capabilities and a brighter tone, Yamaha may be the better option.
So, which one will you choose?
It’s up to you to decide based on your needs and preferences. No matter which brand you choose, Kawai and Yamaha offer high-quality digital pianos that will impress you. Happy playing!
Wait, there’s more!
Discover the top digital pianos that cater to the needs of classical piano players with our comprehensive guide to the Best Digital Piano For Classical Pianists, and take your performance to the next level!
