Sifting through digital piano reviews can be a time-consuming task, but it’s important to find the right fit when you’re purchasing your first piano or keyboard! Whether you’re a pianist without the space for an acoustic piano, you want something portable, or you just prefer the bells and whistles of a keyboard, it can be difficult for pianists to find keyboards that really fit all of our requirements. In this article we’ll look at recommended digital pianos for all different types of needs.
| Casio Privia PX-S1000 | $649 | For Beginners |
| Kawai CA-99 | $5,599 | Most Like an Acoustic |
| Kawai NV10 | $12,999 | For Classical Players |
| Nord Piano 5 | $3,499 | For Pop & Rock Musicians |
| Alesis Concert | $269 | Most Mobile |
| Yamaha PSRE360 | $199 | For Those on a Budget |
| Roland FP-30X | $749.99 | For Young Musicians |
| Roland Kiyola | $1,399 | For Saving Space |
Most importantly, however, as you begin learning how to play the piano, you should have a keyboard that feels and sounds as much like a piano as possible. Some of the requirements to look for are weighted keys, real-size keys, at least 61 keys (but preferably 88), a sustain pedal, touch-tone sensitivity, piano action, well-sampled piano sounds, an adjustable stand, and an adjustable bench.
When the keyboard is not realistic enough (meaning, it is not enough like an actual acoustic piano), your learning may be hampered when performing live on an acoustic piano. And if you do anything in the way of events, recitals, group classes, talent shows, or even playing for fun in the back of a favorite bar, if the acoustic piano feels too foreign then the results will be frustrating. Dynamics will be harder to produce, keys may be missed due to being used to another weight of keys that is unlike an acoustic piano, and tone quality may be poor. Having a keyboard that mimics the function of an acoustic piano is vital.
What Should You Look for in a Keyboard or Digital Piano?
Keyboards and digital pianos come in many sizes and levels and they can range from mere toys to impressive professional instruments. As you might imagine, no single instrument fits everyone’s needs or budget. The lowest end instruments, such as Casio’s SA-46, may be fine for a 4 or 5 year old to have fun with. However, when a child or adult learner decides to formally study piano (usually with a teacher), they should avoid the cheapest keyboards.
On the lower end, you will notice that the plastic keys have “synth touch,” which means they have no weight to them. This is unlike a real, acoustic piano, which always has some degree of weight or resistance in the keyboard action. Also, low-end keyboards do not come with a sustain pedal, and they always have poor on-board speaker systems. Lastly, low-end instruments never contain full-size keyboards themselves. At minimum, beginner students should have an instrument with 61 keys. But even this is not ideal because keyboard visualization will become an important factor as the student progresses and moves beyond simple, fixed hand positions.
76 keys, or a full 88-keyed instrument, is always advisable. Keep in mind that all real, acoustic pianos, including even the cheapest spinets, contain 88 keys. The ultimate goal with digital instruments is to emulate real, acoustic pianos as much as possible. So when you’re ready to buy, choose an 88-key digital piano or keyboard or unless money is really an issue, and buying cheaply is unavoidable (see For Pianists on a Budget).
That said, there is a lot to consider for students and pros alike, so let’s break down all the things you will want to know before making a purchase. The basic features a buyer should be aware of include these eight categories:
- Size and weight
- Number of keys
- Sound engine (sampling, modeling, and other customizable functions)
- Piano action
- On-board speaker systems
- Pedaling capabilities
- Additional sounds (harpsichord, organs, strings, brass, and other instrument samples)
- Educational support such as key split, recording and playback, metronome functions, and other built-in lesson tools and tutorials.
Looking for help getting started on keyboard? Learn how to read sheet music in this helpful video tutorial:
Keep in Mind That Some Features Don’t Matter
Don’t get confused or distracted by product hype that doesn’t matter. For example, many digital keyboards and digital pianos offer a wide range of tuning systems, better known as “temperaments.” These temperaments are often included in an instrument’s description. When you turn on your keyboard or digital piano, it will automatically be set to “equal temperament.” This is the ONLY tuning system used globally. It is universal. Leave it there and don’t mess with temperaments.
Unless you are a professor researching classical music history, or you plan to perform in a 16th-century period ensemble, the other temperaments included on your instrument are essentially–dare I say–meaningless. Roland’s lovely DP-90S, for example, includes 8 archaic tuning systems. These temperaments may pique your curiosity. They may also be fun to play around with. But, in truth, they are of little to no value to contemporary musicians.
Don’t confuse temperament with transposition either. You may well need transposition in some musical contexts’. Transposition simply refers to changing keys. It’s like a digital capo. The transposition feature on your instrument may be especially helpful when accompanying singers.
Keyboard vs. Digital Piano
Before we discuss the ins and outs of buying an instrument, you may be wondering what the differences are between a keyboard and a digital piano? Is there a difference at all?
First, let’s go back in time. The original use of the word “keyboard” relates to the keybed of any instrument that contains black and white keys. This might mean a harpsichord, clavichord, organ, or pianoforte. This term is still in use today.
However, in our digital era, you may also encounter terms like “arrangers,” “workstations,” “synths,” “portable DP’s” and more. Let’s simplify this terminology and focus on keyboards vs. digital pianos (DP’s).
What do these words really mean in the context of digital music?
Keyboards and digital pianos are essentially the same. Except for hybrid pianos, which are defined later in this review, the only real differences between a keyboard and a digital piano are:
1.) Portability of DP’s on mid to upper range instruments
2.) Cabinet design of some DP’s
3.) On-board speaker quality (applies to high-end instruments)
4.) Pedaling options
Though the terms “keyboard” and “digital piano” are sometimes used as synonyms by sellers, (digital) keyboards tend to be created for the gigging musician, and therefore, they are usually lighter in weight. That said, many digital pianos are, in fact, somewhat portable, at least in comparison to an acoustic piano. School districts, for example, often use Yamaha’s Clavinova, like the CVP-701, because it can be placed on casters by the staff and rolled around the band room with relative ease.
However, digital pianos are generally not lightweight. For example, the Clavinova mentioned above is 130 lbs. DP’s usually require two people to move them. Most digital keyboards, on the other hand, are designed to be highly portable, carried by one person, and schlepped from gig to gig.
Aesthetics
Another difference between a (digital) keyboard and a digital piano is the aesthetics themselves. A keyboard is placed on a stand, which is a simple frame used to hold and support the instrument. Often, keyboard stands are tubular, X-shaped, and again, made to travel.
On the other hand, digital pianos are usually built inside of a wooden and/or plastic cabinet, called a console. Except for so-called “portable DP’s,” digital pianos are not generally designed to be carted around from gig to gig or rehearsal to rehearsal.
Instead, true digital pianos are created for more permanent spaces, like a home, music studio, or practice room. Premium digital pianos even closely resemble the look of an actual upright piano. And the most expensive digital pianos, like Roland’s GP609, look and play like a baby grand piano.
High-end digital pianos often feature exquisite cabinetry and glossy ebony or natural wood finishes. As you might imagine, to the untrained eye, these digital pianos may look exactly like an authentic, acoustic piano.
Sound Production and Piano Action
Sound engines (sampling and modeling), as well as piano actions, are comparable on high-end (digital) keyboards and DP’s. If home decor is not a priority, or you plan to gig, a portable keyboard may be the best fit for you. If you have a big budget, you can purchase some extraordinary keyboards. For example, Kawai’s MP11SE stage piano (or stage keyboard) is an amazing instrument, which uses many high-end features including real wooden-key grand piano action and escapement. On the downside, you will need some muscle to lug this instrument around.
Speakers
Regarding speaker systems, many portable keyboards tend to rely on a pair of on-board speakers. Though this speaker technology is generally improving, it still is not ideal for more advanced players. Moreover, high-end keyboards usually don’t have any on-board speakers. Instead, they require external amplification such as studio monitors, or alternately, a keyboard amp (via a line-out). Keyboard amps don’t sound nearly as good as studio monitors and decent studio monitors can be expensive ($500 minimum and up).
On the other hand, the best digital pianos feature well-designed, multiple speaker systems like Kawai’s impressive Onkyo powered sound technology. For low to middle range instruments, the on-board speakers systems for both portable keyboards and more stationary digital pianos are usually comparable.
Pedals
The pedaling apparatus also tends to be different in the middle to high-end range of digital pianos. Quality digital pianos often feature three pedals (soft, sostenuto, and sustain). This is the same pedaling assembly found on acoustic grand pianos. On the other hand, traveling keyboardists need to bring along a separate, single sustain pedal. Since gigging keyboardists tend to use their instruments for jazz, pop, country, blues, and rock, this single sustain pedal is usually enough. However, if you intend to use your keyboard for intermediate to advanced level classical repertoire, you will be better served by purchasing a stationary digital piano with three pedals.
Virtual Studio Technology (VST)
Keyboards and digital pianos both contain MIDI and USB hookups. This allows for computer interfacing with Virtual Studio Technology (VST), which is audio plug-in software. Arguably the best VST on the market today is Pianoteq by Modartt. Pianoteq offers stunning authentic sound modeling, morphing, and layering, as well as a whopping 127-level touch sensitive velocity graph. That is a level of dynamic range (and expression) that is unparalleled on any stand-alone keyboard or digital piano. For this reason, some advanced users prefer to use VST sounds. In this case, the physical keyboard or digital piano becomes a controller only.
Quiet Practice and Headphones
We don’t need to focus too much on quiet practice in this review. While this may be an important, indeed critical, feature for buyers of electronic instruments, ALL digital pianos and keyboards offer headphone jacks. If bluetooth capabilities are important to you, then you will need to check the specs on each piano and brand. More and more, bluetooth is included on keyboards and DP’s, even in the lower price range.
If you are looking to practice quietly, over-the-ear (also called “cup” style) headphones are always recommended. One great, inexpensive option is Edifier’s H840 noise-isolating, closed monitor, stereo headphones. Many other headphone options also exist too including true audiophile-grade headphones that cost thousands of dollars. If your instrument has on-board speakers, when you plug in the headphones, the speakers will always silence.
Piano Benches
Another feature we won’t focus too much on here is the piano bench. Basic benches come with most digital piano purchases. If you purchase a keyboard, you will need to buy either a simple bench, like the ones made by IWELL, which include storage for sheet music, or you will need to buy a foldable keyboard bench like On-Stage’s KT7800. You may also opt for a sturdy drum throne. Gibraltar, Tama, and Roc-n-soc, all make some really comfortable, and easily adjustable, thrones. Thrones are a great option for the gigging keyboardist.
For high-end digital piano owners, you will want to make sure your piano bench is also adjustable. Most premium digital pianos come with a matching, adjustable bench. The finest piano benches on the market can get very pricey but you generally don’t need to overspend on this item unless money is truly no object.
What Instrument is Best for You?
Research is everything. Before you buy anything, take the time to figure out what factors and features matter most to you. And if you can, before you invest in an instrument, try out various keyboards and DP’s at a showroom near you.
In this review, we will take a look at keyboards and digital pianos from several different angles. We will explore what to look for in an instrument if you are a newbie, a classical player, a rock and pop performer, and more. We will also keep in mind the space-conscious user, since many musicians live in apartments, dorms, or other smaller spaces, which require a more diminutive instrument footprint.
Our Top Recommended Keyboards and Digital Pianos (Picks for 2021)
Here are our top recommended keyboards and digital pianos for piano players recommended for the varying needs of pianists, students, and keyboard players of all styles and levels.
For Beginner Students
In many ways, instruments for beginners are among the most important purchases. But why is this so important? Poor instruments can actually hamper development and interfere with a student’s technical progress. There are three main factors to consider when buying for beginner students:
- Keyboard size (number of piano keys)
- Keyboard action (weighted or semi-weighted keys)
- On-board speaker system
As mentioned earlier, beginners should have at least 61 keys. However, this is truly the bare minimum, and this size keyboard is only recommended for those who are on a very tight budget (see Pianists on a Budget). Yes, something is better than nothing. And 61-key instruments are good travel companions too. However, these keyboards do not have weighted key action. If you’re taking piano lessons, and you do not have access to an acoustic piano, the goal is to find a digital instrument that simulates the feel and touch of a real piano.
If, for whatever reason, you do choose non-weighted keys, Casio’s CT-X3000 Portable Arranger keyboard is a good choice, since it encourages songwriting and creativity. The CT-X3000 is a compact keyboard, has three types of touch responses, a bass reflex 12-watt speaker system, and a MIDI recorder with a 42-part mixer. This keyboard allows for USB to host/device interfacing so you can always use it as a controller later on if you explore VST’s or audio plug-in software. (Again, see Pianists on a Budget for additional information on inexpensive 61-key instruments.)
Remember, ideally, beginners looking to learn how to play the piano should find an instrument that includes weighted action and 88-keys. There are many companies that specialize in beginner DP’s including Casio, Yamaha, Korg, Kawai, Korg, Nord, Roland, and more.
If you can, bring your music instructor with you to the nearest showroom and compare each keyboard and DP option available to you. In so many ways, your first purchase sets the pace for your development later on so choose wisely.
Our Top Pick:
There used to be a time when Casio was the butt of jokes. Times have changed. The Casio Privia PX-S1000 is an impressive instrument in its price range, and it is ideal for beginners. This keyboard falls into the so-called portable DP family. The Privia is an 88-keyed instrument that is often sold as a bundle with a console style stand, sustain pedal, X-frame bench, and even sometimes a DIY beginners piano book.
The Privia is certainly not the cheapest instrument for a beginner but it’s a good middle ground. If you do choose the Privia, it’s best to avoid the cheaper footswitch that may be included with this purchase. Instead, opt for a single universal damper (sustain) pedal, or better yet, the SP-34 three pedal unit.
The Privia is a popular keyboard for two reasons: it’s easy to understand and navigate for beginners, and it sounds surprisingly excellent. The Privia also includes smart-scaled weighted hammer action, a split mode (great for music lessons), plus USB and bluetooth connections. The feel of the plastic keys themselves are more realistic too, and at under 25 lbs, the Privia is a fantastic all-around starter instrument.
What Sets it Apart
Despite its weighted action, the Privia PX-S1000 is a lightweight instrument (24.7 lbs). The Privia also has a fetching wooden CS-6X stand, which not only looks good, but it positions the piano at the correct height for a beginner. Don’t place your keyboard randomly on a desk or table. Get a proper stand. The correct height matters. Lastly, this DP offers ebony and ivory key textures. This is an amazing feature making the keybed of the Privia feel like a real, acoustic piano.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $649 .00 | Y | Y | Y | Textured Keys |
You can find the Privia PX-S1000 here.
Other Recommendations
Yamaha P-45
Donner DDP-90
Korg B2SP
Most Like an Acoustic
If you truly love acoustic pianos, but still want the low maintenance of digital, the best option is to purchase a hybrid instrument. These are the top of the line non-acoustic instruments available today. However, be warned. These instruments are not for the budget conscious. The reason hybrid pianos are so lifelike is because they use real moving parts, including a real piano action and hammers. They do not have strings though, and instead, they rely on optical sensors to trigger astonishingly realistic sound and expression. In general, hybrid pianos feel “alive” when you play them, much like their acoustic cousins. This realism makes the hybrid the finest digital instrument type on the market.
But let’s say you don’t have 10-20K to buy the top of the line hybrid. What can you do? Focus on digital pianos that use sound modeling, as well as innovative speaker systems. The DP’s that sound most like acoustics possess a sophisticated, crystal clear tone, especially as the sound decays. For instance, Roland’s superNATURAL piano modeling technology is found on many of their DP’s, and its complex overtones resemble the true sound waves of a hammer striking a string.
Our Top Pick:
The Kawai CA-99 is the best option if you cannot spring for more pricey hybrid pianos (see For Classical Players). The CA-99 is a hybrid but it is much more affordable. This is a truly fine piano in every way. The CA-99 includes a TwinDrive Soundboard speaker system, with new 360 degree speaker diffuser panels and their SK-EX Rendering piano sound engine.
The CA-99 also uses something called a “virtual technician.” This feature simulates a piano tuner’s subtle customizations. On the CA-99, however, you can personally customize your sound with a swipe of the LCD touchscreen. For example, you can refine the hammer and damper release noises, as well as cabinet resonances.
The virtual technician can also adjust the tuning, volume, and character of individual notes. Let’s say the highest octave on the piano sounds thin or brittle to you. If so, you may warm up or thicken the tone through easy on-screen adjustments. Most of all, the CA-99 contains Kawai’s grand feel pedaling system, and it features their magnificent Grand Feel III keyboard action.
What Sets it Apart
The Kawai CA-99 may be the best digital piano in its class. It contains Kawai’s SK-EX sound engine, a real soundboard, string, damper, and cabinet resonance modeling, a USB audio recorder, and most of all, true grand piano key-action and grand feel pedals. For about 1K more, you can also get this piano in a shiny ebony polish. This is one classy instrument.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $5,599.00 | Y | Y | N | True Grand Piano Pedal and Action Feel |
You can find the Kaway CA-99 here.
Other Recommendations
Yamaha Clavinova CLP-765GP
Roland LX708
Korg G1 Air
For Classical Players
The most difficult musicians to please in the digital realm are probably the classical players. This is not necessarily because they are prima donnas. It’s because the subtleties of classical repertoire cannot be easily replicated on most digital instruments. Classical players use a very sensitive dynamic range, from the softest, barely audible sound, to extremely loud, thunderous volume. Classical artists are constantly working on sculpting lines, and they seek a lot of expressivity from their pianos.
Every melody note, chord, texture, phrase, and contrapuntal gesture is pored over in the most meticulous manner by classical pianists. They also use all three pedals (una corda or soft, sostenuto, sustain). Classical players even sometimes employ half-pedaling to harness the natural resonance of the piano cabinet itself.
You may never satisfy the A-listers with a digital instrument for performance, but many of the finest classical players are starting to use hybrids for practice purposes. As for students of classical music, the best hybrids are definitely up to the task, even in recital settings. To the naysayers, it’s important to recognize that the future is here, and it’s probably going to look a lot like a hybrid.
Our Top Pick:
According to their website, Kawai’s NV10 contains “the most authentic piano touch ever offered in a digital instrument.” This statement is hard to refute, at least as of this writing. The NV10 is absolutely unbeatable. Hybrid pianos represent a true fusion of digital technology with real mechanical, moving parts. On all Kawai hybrids, this means you will be using a genuine piano action and real hammers.
The NV10’s Millennium III Hybrid Grand Piano Action boasts 88 Wooden keys, 88-Key graded ABS hammers, IHSS contact-less optical sensors, advanced resonance modeling, and a virtual technician (see Most Like an Acoustic) with 19 customizable parameters. The NV10 also features a discrete SpectraModule™ headphone amplifier, which allows you to hear the sounds of the piano with enhanced clarity when practicing with headphones. The NV 10 also comes with a USB audio recorder and an internal recorder with impressive memory capabilities.
What Sets it Apart
What sets the NV10 apart is the true feel and sound of a grand piano, especially given its relatively small size. The width of the piano is 58.2 inches and the depth is a mere 25.3 inches. Yet, the 7 speakers–4 top speakers, 2 dome speakers, and 1 woofer–give it the fullest and richest sound you can experience on a digital instrument today. In a word, the NV10 is magnificent.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $12,999 | Y | Y | N | 7 Speaker System |
You can find the Kawai NV10 Here.
Other Recommendations
Yamaha CVP809GP
Yamaha AvantGrand N2
Roland GP-609
Samick SG-500
For Pop & Rock Musicians
Pop and rock musicians generally prefer more portable instrument options for gigging around town or traveling on larger tours. Unlike classical pianists, pop and rock players tend to play in very loud, highly amplified musical settings too. Therefore, having the most exquisite dynamic range on their keyboard or digital piano may not be the most important factor to consider.
Nonetheless, pop and rock players still want, and need, expressivity and realistic sounds. Moreover, they have to factor in the hauling of gear. Not everyone has roadies at their disposal. No one wants to carry around an instrument that is ridiculously heavy and bulky. And if airports are involved, musicians also need a keyboard that can be nestled safely inside of a sturdy flight case. Digital pianos, as defined earlier, are not going to be the “go to” instrument for this kind of rigorous travel. Therefore, quality stage pianos are the best bet for rock and pop artists.
Our Top Pick:
Nord Piano 5 (and it’s cousin the Nord Piano 5 73-keyed stage piano) are excellent choices for pop and rock keyboardists. In general, Nord is very popular among these types of players for one simple reason: these instruments sound and feel amazing. For the piano-oriented keyboardist, the Nord Piano 5 still boasts a triple sensor keybed with grand weighted key-action. It also features their excellent virtual hammer action technology. But additionally, this keyboard has advanced sound layering, keyboard split points with optional crossfades, incredible synth sounds, and highly stylized effects like panning, phasers, flangers, choruses, delays, tremolos, wah-wah’s, and much more. The many reverbs on the Nord 5 are well-designed too. Overall, this is one heck of a versatile instrument. And it comes with all the bells and whistles you could ever dream of.
What Sets it Apart
The Nord 5 was created for live performance. Its visual layout encourages a true hands-on approach to dialing in sounds on the fly. Moreover, as you change between sounds, perhaps in the middle of a song, this keyboard features seamless and glitch-free transitions. At 40.1 lb’s, this keyboard won’t break your back loading and unloading it either.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $3,499 | Y | Y | Y | True vibrato accurately models real vibrato on wind instrument samples |
You can find the Nord Piano 5 here.
Other Recommendations
Kurzweil Forte 88-key Stage Piano
Roland RD-2000
Yamaha CP-3000
For Staying Mobile
For some keyboardists, you need to stay mobile, and be ready to get up and go at a moment’s notice. If this is your #1 priority, you will want a piano that is light and easy to move around. Semi-weighted keys may be right for you in this situation. This will reduce the overall weight of the keyboard and keep you on the move. Semi-weighted keys still have some degree of weight and resistance, but they do not simulate the feel of an actual upright piano. For some keyboardists, semi-weighted action may be okay though. After all, organs and synthesizers have non-weighted keys. Fully weighted keys are simply not a “do or die” must for all players in all musical scenarios.
Our Top Pick:
The Alesis Concert 88-Key semi-weighted Digital Piano is a great choice for someone who must be as mobile as possible. This instrument is still full-sized, with adjustable touch-response. It also has two 20-watt on-board speakers, which will give you enough juice for smaller gigs at coffee shops or perhaps a hotel bar, etc.
The Alesis Concert also has 10 high quality sound samples, which can get you through most musical situations. You can adjust the reverb and chorus effects too. Overall, this is not a fancy keyboard but it sounds good and it will get the job done.
What Sets it Apart
The Alesis Concert 88-Key Digital Piano instrument doesn’t need an AC adapter, so you don’t even need to have a power source. In other words, there isn’t any need to plug this DP in. Instead, this instrument can run on six D batteries. Overall, the Alesis Concert gives you a lot of freedom and bang for your buck. At under 16 lb’s, it will also keep you moving from gig to gig with ease.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $269 | Semi Y | Y | Y | Stereo RCA aux outputs for connecting to sound systems |
You can find the Alesis Concert here.
Other Recommendations
Yamaha PSR-EW300 SA 76-Key Portable Keyboard
Roland GO: Piano88
Donner DEP-20
Casio CT-S200 Portable Keyboard (with built-in handle)
For Pianists on a Budget
If you are on a tight budget, don’t despair. There are still many keyboard options that will get you started and keep you inspired to practice. Once upon a time, students with little money had to practice on upright pianos in various states of disrepair. Often, these pianos were out of tune and sounded terrible. Sometimes there were even “dead” keys or pedals that didn’t function.
With the digital revolution in the 1980’s, cheap keyboards started to become more viable, available, and economical. Now, in 2021, there are many cheap instruments that would have been touted as excellent sounding keyboards only 25 years ago. Sound samples certainly have come a long way. And remember, keyboards always stay in tune!
Understand however, that if you wish to play piano, you will want to eventually practice on an instrument that has 88 weighted keys. You will also eventually need a real sustain pedal (not a footswitch). You can currently purchase a universal sustain pedal for around $25 online.
For those who are cash strapped, you may begin your studies on a 61-keyed instrument though and still make real progress. Just stay away from no-name brands. Stick to renown instrument makers like Yamaha, Casio, Korg, or Roland, etc.
Our Top Pick:
One bare bones starter keyboard, which is still worth your time, is the Yamaha PSRE360. For what it is, this keyboard boasts a surprisingly handsome dark walnut wood finish. Moreover, this 61-keyed beginner instrument is backed up by Yamaha’s world-class reputation.
The PSRE360 is no slouch either. It has surprisingly nice touch sensitive keys, high quality instrument samples and a clear, pleasant tone. Perhaps most importantly, however, this keyboard features on-board lessons, which can help to get you started.
What Sets it Apart
What sets the PSRE360 apart is its on-board music tutorial. This keyboard has a 3 step built-in lesson, which promotes listening, timing and rhythm, and waiting skills for each hand. This lesson also incorporates on-board songs. Furthermore, there is a keyboard split mode so parent and child, or teacher and student, can practice together.
Split mode takes the total octave range of a keyboard and divides it into 2 equal parts. This half ‘n half split allows two people, or four hands, to play in the same octave. It’s really like having two keyboards placed side by side.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $199 | Y | Y | Y | Mobile phone connection option so you can play along with your favorite songs |
You can find the Yamaha PSRE360 here.
Other Recommendations
Roland GO: Piano88
Yamaha Piaggero NP-12
Casio CT-S1
For Young Musicians
Serious minded young musicians should seek out the finest instrument possible. Period. A great piano will often inspire and motivate youngsters who really and truly want to learn. Usually, however, parents don’t want to shell out thousands of dollars before they know how committed their son or daughter may be. This is certainly understandable.
As a baseline, a weighted 88-key digital piano is always advisable though. If the music lessons don’t work out, and the child loses interest, these instruments are quickly resellable. Bottom line: investing in your child’s music education usually pays off with a more motivated and energized learner. And in 2021, you really don’t need to pay exorbitantly to get something excellent for your budding child.
Our Top Pick:
The ideal digital keyboard for a young musician is Roland’s FP-30X. It’s not super cheap but it’s also not super expensive. Perhaps we can rate this instrument in the goldilocks price zone. This instrument provides a refined playing experience due to Roland’s cutting edge advancements in feel and tone production. Their SuperNATURAL sound engine (with 256-voice polyphony) paired with their PHA-4 keyboard and Progressive Hammer Action make this a very stimulating playing experience. Among other features, the FP-30X also has audio and MIDI connectivity via Bluetooth or a USB port.
FYI: Make sure you get a keyboard stand and sustain pedal for this instrument since it does not come in a console. You only need a basic X-frame stand for this DP and the stand and pedal are both inexpensive purchases. Also, if you need a bench, Yamaha’s PKBB1 piano bench is priced around $30. This is a solid and safe bet for any young keyboardist.
What Sets it Apart
The Roland FP-30X has one of the best build-in sound systems in its price point. Their multi-amped stereo speakers are extremely lush and the speakers are strategically integrated into the FP-30X’s sleek frame. Moreover, the FP-30X’s on-board 3-band equalizer allows you to further customize the sound to fit any room or venue.
The FP-30X is a great portable DP for professional and amatuer performers alike. The “guts” of this instrument are the same as Roland’s pricier lines of DP’s, so this is really a great buy for young musicians who need quality but don’t want to break the bank. You will get a lot of years out of this piano.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| 749.99 | Y | Y | N | Excellent personalization of piano tone |
You can find the Roland FP-30X here.
Other Recommendations
Yamaha PSRE360
Alesis Recital Pro
Williams Legato III Digital Piano
For Saving Space
Many piano students and families live in apartments where space is tight. Any starving artist who has ever lived in New York City knows what it’s like to cram all of your things into a closet sized apartment. This may be the #1 reason why buyers choose digital instruments over traditional acoustic ones, and why digital instruments are so popular. Even the more bulky digital pianos on the market are still smaller and more streamlined than most acoustic uprights. In this department, there is simply no contest between even the smallest spinet and most DP’s.
But why stop there? Some people also desire a combination of style and compactness. Thankfully, there are several beautiful and slim digital pianos with various lustres and veneers to choose from. Yamaha, Roland, Casio, Korg, Kurtzweil, and Kawai all have done an excellent job of designing attractive, space saving instruments.
In fact, every DP manufacturer has compactness in mind when they craft their instruments. In this business, compactness is one of the universal goals all companies share. Yes, 88-keys means that a specific length will always be required. But most digital companies have done a splendid job of reducing the bulk and width of their pianos. This is a huge improvement from the days when the alternative to the acoustic piano was the massive Hammond organ or the cumbersome Fender Rhodes.
Our Top Pick:
Combining natural beauty and fabulous playability, Roland’s Kiyola wins the best pick for saving space and yet delivering a world class instrument. Made in Japan, in collaboration with furniture maker Karimoku, this hand-crafted, artisanal wooden piano combines gorgeous cabinetry with all the power and advanced digital features that Roland has to offer.
Roland refers to this instrument as the ultimate in “form and function” and one look at the Kiyola confirms this. Like their other flagship models, the Kiyola contains Roland’s SuperNATURAL piano sound modelling as well as their newest PHA-50 keyboard. Additionally, Roland’s dynamic 4 speaker system, progressive damper action pedal, limitless polyphony, and more, make this more than just an impressive piece of furniture. Yet, the Kiyola also dispels the idea that digital instruments are “cold” and synthetic looking. In contrast, this piano’s craftsmanship is every bit as warm and organic as any acoustic upright. And most of all, the Kiyola is extremely streamlined and space saving.
What Sets it Apart
The Kiyola comes in at under 14 inches in width. It’s tiny footprint allows you to place this piano up against a wall in just about any size room. And when not in use, you can tuck the piano bench under the piano rather easily.
Roland says it best: “This ergonomically contoured cabinet…complements your living space like a piece of artisan furniture.” For the space conscious buyer who also wants to make an artistic statement, you simply can’t go wrong with the Kiyola. For what you get, the price isn’t so steep either.
| Average Cost | Weighted Keys | Silent Option | Mobility | Bonus Features |
| $1,399.00 | Y | Y | N | Piano designer for customizing resonance, noise, volume, tuning, and more |
You can find the Roland Kiyola here.
Other Recommendations
Casio CDP-S150 Compact Digital Piano
Korg C1 Air
Yamaha P-125
FAQs About Digital Pianos
Should I get a digital piano with weighted keys?
We recommend investing in a digital piano with weighted or semi-weighted keys, as this feature is one of the most important elements of improving your playing technique and enjoying your sound.
I’m a beginner, is it important that I get a quality digital piano?
Having a quality instrument can help you advance faster, and can also make playing more enjoyable. However, we know that you may not want to spend thousands of dollars on a digital piano before you’re absolutely sure you want to continue. There are some recommended digital pianos for beginners in the For Beginners section above.
Is there a difference between a digital piano and a digital keyboard?
Keyboards and digital pianos are essentially the same, and the only real differences between a keyboard and a digital piano are the portability of DP’s on mid to upper range instruments, the cabinet design of some DP’s, on-board speaker quality (applies to high-end instruments), and pedaling options.
If I want to learn classical music, is a digital piano a good idea?
While most classical musicians prefer to play on an acoustic instrument because of its expressivity and dynamic range, more and more classical artists are playing on hybrid instruments, and many students play on digital pianos. While acoustic is likely best for classical music, a digital piano can start you off in the right direction.
What are the most important features to look for in a digital piano?
We think the most important features to look for are size and weight, number of keys, sound engine (sampling, modeling, and other customizable functions), piano action, on-board speaker systems, pedaling capabilities, additional sounds (harpsichord, organs, strings, brass, and other instrument samples), educational support such as key split, recording and playback, metronome functions, and any other built-in lesson tools and tutorials.
Finding the Right Digital Piano Will Help You Become a Better Musician
Whatever you buy, just remember to make sure that the digital piano you choose is the right fit for your personal goals and situation. You probably won’t be able to find these at your nearby big-box stores, so take a trip to the music store nearest you or follow the links above and begin exploring the quality digital keyboards and the best digital pianos available for pianists of all levels!
Sara Marie B. teaches piano, singing, songwriting, music theory, and more in Powell, OH, as well as online. She has been teaching music lessons since 1992, and has been involved in music and performance since 1983. Learn more about Sara Marie here!
Photo by Neil Rickards
Suzy S.