In the world of musical instruments, the best digital piano has become an essential choice for musicians, both beginners and professionals.
Modern digital pianos mimic the feel of acoustic pianos while offering features like key action and sound engines for versatility.
Reviews can help you find the best digital piano by evaluating key aspects. These pianos blend sleek design with advanced performance, perfect for modern homes.
By the end of this article, you will learn:
- Key Features of Digital Pianos: Discover what to look for in sound quality, portability, and functionality.
- Why You Should Invest in a Digital Piano: Understand the benefits of digital over acoustic pianos and which type suits your needs.
- Top Digital Piano Choices for 2024: Get detailed reviews of the best digital pianos available this year.
|
Top Choice
|
Editor's Choice
|
Budget Choice
|
|
Ultra-portable piano. |
For Intermediate Players. |
Authentic-Piano Feel. |
Top Choice
Editor's Choice
Budget Choice
What are the Best Digital Pianos
- Casio CT-S300
- Yamaha PSR-E373
- Roland FP-10
- Roland FP-30X
- Kawai ES920
- Casio PX-870
- Kawai KDP120
- Donner DDP-80
- Casio CDP-S160
- Alesis Recital Pro
1. Casio CT-S300
Piano for Beginners
Casio Casiotone CT-S300 61-Key Portable Keyboard
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.7
The Casio CT-S300 is an ultra-portable digital piano with 61 touch-responsive keys, 400 tones, and 77 rhythms. Its USB connectivity makes it perfect for beginners and on-the-go players.
Why We Love It:
- Portable Design: Lightweight and compact with a built-in handle for easy transport.
- Touch-Responsive Keys: 61 full-size keys with touch sensitivity for a more expressive playing experience.
- Versatile Sounds: Includes 400 tones and 77 rhythms, with the ability to create and remix EDM tracks.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Casio CT-S300 is a beginner-friendly digital piano that offers great portability and a wide range of features, making it ideal for those who want to learn and play anywhere.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 61 keys
- Tones: 400
- Rhythms: 77
- Weight: 6.16 lbs
- Power Source: Battery powered
Review:
The Casio CT-S300 stands out for its portability and wide range of features that make it ideal for beginners.
The touch-responsive keys and variety of tones, combined with the Chordana Play app, make it a fun and versatile tool for learning and exploring different musical styles on the go.
Verdict:
The Casio CT-S300 is an excellent option for beginners who are looking for a good digital piano with a compact design, versatile features, and easy connectivity.This Product is Perfect For:
- Beginners: Who are learning to play and need an easy-to-use digital piano.
- Traveling Musicians: Looking for a lightweight, portable option with lots of features.
- Students: Who want a digital piano with built-in learning tools and USB connectivity.
2. Yamaha PSR-E373
Piano for Intermediate Players
Yamaha PSR-E383 Portable Keyboard
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.6
The Yamaha PSR-E373 is ideal for intermediate players with 61 touch-sensitive keys and 622 instrument voices. It offers authentic sound quality at an affordable price.
Why We Love It:
- 61 Touch-Sensitive Keys: Provides dynamic expression based on how hard or soft the keys are played.
- 622 Instrument Voices: From acoustic pianos to electric guitars and orchestral instruments, this digital piano offers a vast array of sounds.
- Smart Chord Feature: Allows easy chord playing, ideal for those learning to play piano chords.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Yamaha PSR-E373 is perfect for those looking for a good digital piano that offers a wide variety of sounds, educational tools, and the ability to grow with the player as they improve their skills.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 61
- Voices: 622
- Polyphony: 48
- Built-In Songs: 154
- Weight: 9.7 lbs
Review:
The Yamaha PSR-E373 is praised for its sound quality and versatile features. Touch-sensitive keys and learning tools like Smart Chord make it ideal for beginners and those taking lessons.Verdict:
The Yamaha PSR-E373 stands out as a best digital piano for intermediate players. Its combination of sound, versatility, and educational tools offers incredible value for money.This Product is Perfect For:
- Intermediate Players: Looking to upgrade from a beginner digital piano.
- Students: Seeking built-in learning tools to aid their progress.
- Musicians: Who want a portable digital piano for practice and performance.
3. Roland FP-10
Compact with Authentic Feel
Roland FP-10 Digital Keyboard
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.7
The Roland FP-10 delivers premium sound and realism with 88 hammer-action keys and the SuperNATURAL engine, making it perfect for beginners and serious learners.
Why We Love It:
- 88 Hammer-Action Keys: Provides the same feel as an acoustic piano, allowing for realistic piano playing.
- SuperNATURAL Sound Engine: Delivers rich and expressive piano sound.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for wireless integration with learning apps and devices.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Roland FP-10 is ideal for anyone looking for a compact, budget-friendly digital piano that still provides the feel and sound of a premium model.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (hammer-action)
- Sound Engine: SuperNATURAL
- Polyphony: 96
- Connectivity: Bluetooth MIDI, USB MIDI
- Weight: 27 lbs
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Review:
The Roland FP-10 offers a premium playing experience in a compact, affordable design.
Its SuperNATURAL sound engine and hammer-action keys deliver authentic piano tones, with built-in Bluetooth for added versatility.
Verdict:
For those looking for an affordable yet high-quality digital piano, the Roland FP-10 is a top choice.
It delivers the features of higher-end models without the hefty price tag, making it one of the best digital pianos in its class.
This Product is Perfect For:
- Beginners: Seeking an affordable, high-quality digital piano with realistic keys.
- Students: Who need a piano for learning and practicing with apps.
- Home Users: Looking for a compact digital piano that doesn't compromise on sound.
4. Roland FP-30X
Affordable Quality with Advanced Features
Roland FP-30X Digital Piano
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.6
The Roland FP-30X is an affordable digital piano with versatile sound options. Ideal for beginners and intermediates, it suits home practice and small gigs.
Why We Love It:
- PHA-4 Standard Keyboard: Provides an authentic piano touch with hammer action keys.
- SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine: Delivers rich, expressive tones with advanced modeling technology.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for easy integration with mobile devices and music apps.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Roland FP-30X is perfect for those looking for a digital piano with enhanced sound quality, more powerful speakers, and the authentic feel of weighted keys.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (weighted)
- Sound Engine: SuperNATURAL
- Polyphony: 256
- Speakers: 22W stereo system
- Weight: 32.7 lbs
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Review:
The Roland FP-30X offers premium sound and feel with its SuperNATURAL engine and PHA-4 keyboard.
Its powerful speakers and Bluetooth connectivity make it perfect for home use and small performances.
Verdict:
The Roland FP-30X offers a premium piano playing experience for advanced players who want high-end features in a digital piano.
It’s a great choice for anyone who values sound quality and authentic touch.
This Product is Perfect For:
- Advanced Players: Looking for a premium digital piano with weighted keys.
- Home Performers: Who need powerful built-in speakers.
- Music Enthusiasts: Wanting a high-end digital model without sacrificing portability.
5. Kawai ES920
Superior Tone and Touch
Kawai ES920 Digital Piano
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.6
The Kawai ES920 is a portable digital piano with excellent tone and touch. Its string resonance delivers rich, realistic sound for performances and recordings.
Why We Love It:
- Responsive Hammer III Action: Offers a grand piano-like feel with fully weighted keys and triple sensor detection.
- 256-Note Polyphony: Ensures smooth and continuous sound, even during complex performances.
- Bluetooth Audio/MIDI: Allows for seamless integration with devices and music apps.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Kawai ES920 is a top-tier digital piano that delivers professional sound quality and an authentic feel, perfect for advanced players seeking a reliable instrument for performance and practice.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (weighted hammer-action)
- Polyphony: 256
- Speakers: Onboard stereo speaker system
- Weight: 55 lbs
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB MIDI
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Review:
The Kawai ES920 delivers a grand piano feel and sound, making it a favorite among professionals. Its Responsive Hammer III Action and 256-note polyphony ensure authentic touch and clarity, with rich sound from the onboard speakers.Verdict:
The Kawai ES920 is ideal for advanced players seeking a digital piano with an authentic acoustic feel. Its high-quality build and advanced features make it a favorite among professionals and serious students.This Product is Perfect For:
- Advanced Players: Seeking a professional-grade digital piano for stage or home use.
- Pianists: Who need a realistic piano playing experience with authentic touch and sound.
- Performers: Looking for a digital piano with high-end sound quality and built-in speakers.
6. Casio PX-870
Grand Piano Experience
Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.7
The Casio PX-870 offers a grand piano experience with powerful sound and 88 weighted keys. Its sleek design fits perfectly in any home.
Why We Love It:
- Sound Projection System: Delivers a powerful, room-filling piano sound with four speakers.
- Weighted Keys: Provides the touch of an acoustic piano with simulated ebony and ivory textures.
- Elegant Design: A stylish wooden cabinet with a sliding key cover, perfect for modern homes.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Casio PX-870 is ideal for those who want the feel and sound of a grand piano but in a more compact and modern form, making it perfect for home use.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (scaled, weighted hammer-action)
- Sound System: 4-speaker Sound Projection system
- Polyphony: 256
- Weight: 83.8 lbs
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Review:
The Casio PX-870 stands out with its grand piano sound and realistic weighted keys. Its sleek design, Sound Projection system, and sliding key cover make it a stylish and compact addition to any home.Verdict:
For players looking for a digital piano that provides an authentic grand piano experience at home, the Casio PX-870 is a great choice. Its combination of sound, design, and functionality makes it one of the best digital pianos in this category.This Product is Perfect For:
- Home Users: Who want a high-quality digital piano with a grand piano feel.
- Intermediate Players: Seeking a step up from beginner models with advanced features.
- Interior Designers: Looking for a stylish piano to complement modern home décor.
7. Kawai KDP120
Authentic Acoustic Feel
Kawai KDP120 Digital Home Piano
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.6
The Kawai KDP120 is compact with excellent sound and playability. It mimics an acoustic piano with its advanced hammer action and imaging technology.
Why We Love It:
- Responsive Hammer Compact II Action: Provides a realistic touch similar to an acoustic piano.
- Harmonic Imaging Sound Engine: Delivers rich, detailed piano sounds with 192-note polyphony.
- Built-In Alfred Piano Lessons: Perfect for learners, featuring built-in educational content.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Kawai KDP120 is perfect for those who want an authentic acoustic piano feel in a compact digital form, ideal for smaller spaces without sacrificing sound or touch.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (weighted, hammer-action)
- Polyphony: 192
- Sound Engine: Harmonic Imaging
- Weight: 81.8 lbs
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Review:
The Kawai KDP120 offers an authentic piano experience with its Responsive Hammer Compact II action and Harmonic Imaging sound engine. Its built-in Alfred Piano lessons make it ideal for students and home users.Verdict:
The Kawai KDP120 offers a compact yet authentic digital piano experience. Its sound quality and learning features make it ideal for both beginners and experienced players.This Product is Perfect For:
- Home Players: Looking for a compact digital piano with an authentic feel.
- Students: Needing a piano with built-in lessons and realistic piano sound.
- Intermediate Players: Seeking an upgrade from basic models.
8. Donner DDP-80 Digital Piano
Affordable with Premium Features
Donner DDP-80 Digital Piano 88 Key Weighted Keyboard
Check Amazon Price
4.7
The Donner DDP-80 offers 88 full-weighted keys and great sound, perfect for beginners and intermediate players seeking an affordable piano feel.
Why We Love It:
- Full-Weighted Keys: Offers the same feel as an acoustic piano, making it ideal for learning.
- French DREAM Sound Source: Provides a realistic piano sound with 128 max polyphony.
- Stylish Design: The retro wood finish makes this piano a beautiful addition to any room.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Donner DDP-80 is a fantastic option for anyone looking for an affordable digital piano that doesn’t compromise on quality, with full-weighted keys and a stylish design.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (full-weighted)
- Polyphony: 128
- Speakers: 2 stereo surround speakers (25W each)
- Weight: 60.9 lbs
- Power Source: Corded Electric
Review:
The Donner DDP-80 offers a premium playing experience for budget-conscious players with its full-weighted keys and realistic piano sound. Its retro wood design adds a stylish and functional touch.Verdict:
The Donner DDP-80 is a great digital piano for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality. Its realistic touch and sound quality make it one of the very best digital only options in its price range.This Product is Perfect For:
- Beginners: Who want a budget-friendly digital piano with a real piano feel.
- Home Users: Looking for a stylish piano that fits any room décor.
- Students: Needing a piano for learning and practice at home.
9. Casio CDP-S160
Ultra-Portable Digital Piano
Casio CDP-S160 Compact Digital Piano
Check Amazon Price
4.7
The Casio CDP-S160 is an ultra-portable digital piano with weighted keys and great sound. Weighing under 25 pounds, it's ideal for a compact, realistic piano experience.
Why We Love It:
- Full-Size Weighted Keys: Offers the same touch as a grand piano, making it great for both practice and performance.
- Portable Design: Weighs less than 25 pounds and has a slim profile, making it easy to carry and store.
- Great Sound Quality: Features Casio’s stereo grand piano tone and multiple other instrument sounds.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Casio CDP-S160 is perfect for those who need a portable digital piano with full-size keys and great sound, ideal for musicians on the go or with limited space.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (scaled hammer-action)
- Polyphony: 64
- Weight: 23.2 lbs
- Speakers: 2 built-in stereo speakers
- Power Source: Corded Electric or 6 AA batteries
Review:
The Casio CDP-S160 offers impressive portability and performance with full-size weighted keys and stereo piano sound. Its multiple sound options and adjustable effects provide added versatility for musicians on the go.Verdict:
The Casio CDP-S160 offers a portable design with a real piano feel. Its lightweight build and quality sound make it ideal for traveling musicians and small spaces.This Product is Perfect For:
- Traveling Musicians: Who need a portable yet professional digital piano.
- Students: Looking for a compact and affordable digital piano for practice.
- Home Users: With limited space who still want a full-size keyboard for playing and learning.
10. Alesis Recital Pro
Powerful Sound, Professional Features
Alesis Recital Pro Keyboard
Check Amazon Price
Check Sweetwater Price
4.6
The Alesis Recital Pro is an 88-key digital piano that offers a powerful combination of high-quality sound and advanced features. With its premium hammer-action keys and adjustable touch-sensitive keys, the Recital Pro provides a lifelike playing experience suitable for both beginners and more advanced players.
Why We Love It:
- Hammer-Action Keys: Provides a realistic and responsive playing experience.
- Versatile Voices: 12 onboard voices with effects for creative expression.
- Powerful Speakers: Integrated 20-watt speakers deliver rich, full sound.
PHOTO: AMAZON. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Why Someone Should Buy:
The Alesis Recital Pro is a great choice for intermediate players looking for a full-featured digital piano with advanced features at a reasonable price point.Technical Features:
- Number of Keys: 88 (hammer-action)
- Voices: 12
- Polyphony: 128
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Power Source: Corded Electric or 6 D batteries
Review:
The Alesis Recital Pro offers professional features at an affordable price, perfect for advancing players. Its hammer-action keys and 12 voices provide versatility, while the lesson mode is great for students learning with a teacher.Verdict:
The Alesis Recital Pro provides pro features at an affordable price with versatile hammer-action keys and 12 voices. Its lesson mode is ideal for student-teacher learning.
This Product is Perfect For:
- Intermediate Players: Looking for a digital piano with professional features.
- Students and Teachers: Who benefit from the lesson mode for side-by-side practice.
- Budget-Conscious Players: Who want a quality piano at an affordable price.
Buyer's Guide for Choosing the Best Portable PA System
Selecting the best portable PA system involves understanding various factors that directly affect performance, usability, and sound quality.
While wattage, portability, and input options are essential considerations, each user’s specific needs must guide their decision.
Power Output and Sound Quality
The power output of a PA system, measured in watts, directly impacts how loud the system can be. Higher wattage is ideal for larger venues or outdoor performances, while smaller wattages may suffice for intimate settings.
However, wattage should be considered alongside sound pressure level (SPL), measured in decibels (dB), to ensure that the system delivers clarity even at high volumes.
High-quality PA systems balance power output with exceptional sound clarity, ensuring your vocals and instruments are well-represented across a wide frequency range.
Stage pianos and acoustic instruments particularly benefit from systems that provide accurate stage piano tone and detailed sound reproduction.
Frequency Response and Audio Fidelity
Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a system can reproduce, from the deep bass to crisp highs.
A broader frequency response allows the system to handle low-frequency bass, mid-range tones, and high-frequency treble, which is especially important for music playback and public speaking.
Systems with subwoofers offer enhanced bass, which is essential when amplifying stage pianos and electric pianos.
Crossover and Driver Configuration
A crossover splits audio signals between the different drivers (e.g., tweeters, midrange speakers, and woofers).
High-quality crossovers ensure each driver handles the frequencies it's designed for, reducing distortion and improving the clarity of the sound.
This feature is critical for systems used in piano playing, as well as for amplifying realistic piano playing experiences in performances.
Input Options for Flexibility
PA systems should offer a range of inputs to accommodate various instruments and devices.
Combo jacks (XLR-1/4”) are particularly useful for both microphones and instruments, such as electric pianos, acoustic instruments, and other digital pianos too.
If you're performing with a MIDI keyboard, make sure the system offers appropriate connectivity options.
For performers with digital pianos or electric pianos, it’s important to ensure compatibility with external devices and sufficient input flexibility for mics, instruments, and other sound sources.
Portability and Easy Setup
Portability is a key feature in portable PA systems, particularly for traveling musicians or performers who frequently change venues.
Look for systems that are lightweight, compact, and easy to set up, such as those with modular designs. These systems are ideal for mobile performers, ensuring quick assembly and disassembly.
Some systems also offer battery-powered operation, making them suitable for street performers or outdoor events where access to electrical outlets may be limited.
A battery life of at least 8-12 hours will ensure that you don’t have interruptions during performances.
Bluetooth Connectivity and App Control
In today’s digital age, many portable PA systems come with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to stream music wirelessly from their devices.
App-based controls further enhance usability by enabling you to adjust sound settings from your smartphone or tablet, ensuring you have full control over your audio without needing to return to the system.
This feature is particularly valuable for performers who use smart devices to control backing tracks or external speakers for enhanced audio output.
Some systems even allow for wireless syncing between multiple units for a more immersive and dynamic performance setup.
Built-in Effects and Versatility
Many modern PA systems include built-in sound effects, such as reverb, delay, and EQ controls, providing musicians and vocalists the ability to enhance their sound on the go.
Whether you're playing electric piano, guitar, or using vocals, these effects can add depth and polish to your performance.
For performers using digital pianos or stage pianos, systems that offer sound effects from other piano can provide added versatility, making it easier to achieve a rich, real piano experience without additional gear.
Portable PA Systems: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a portable PA system for electric pianos?
Yes, most portable PA systems are compatible with electric pianos. Systems with versatile input options, including XLR, quarter-inch jacks, and USB, are ideal for connecting your electric piano.
A good PA system will enhance the sound of your piano tone, offering clarity and volume to ensure an engaging performance.
What features should I look for in a PA system for piano playing?
When selecting a portable PA system for piano playing, focus on sound clarity, input flexibility, and portability.
If you're using a real piano or digital piano, the system should have high-quality built-in speakers that can reproduce the full range of the piano’s frequencies.
Look for systems that offer Bluetooth connectivity, app control, and sufficient battery life for longer performances.
What is the best portable PA system for a Yamaha piano?
Yamaha’s own portable PA systems, such as the STAGEPAS series, are a great match for Yamaha pianos.
These systems are tailored to enhance piano playing experiences by delivering high sound fidelity and easy portability, making them ideal for performers using Yamaha pianos.
Are portable PA systems suitable for upright pianos?
While portable PA systems are typically used with digital instruments, they can also amplify upright pianos in certain scenarios.
By positioning external microphones or pickups on real pianos correctly, you can achieve a strong audio output for live performances, though it's more common for digital pianos and electric pianos to be paired with PA systems.
What brands make the best digital piano brands compatible with portable PA systems?
Popular digital piano brands like Roland, Casio, Yamaha, and Kawai produce instruments that pair well with portable PA systems.
These brands offer digital pianos that deliver rich, dynamic sound when connected to high-quality PA systems, enhancing your overall performance.
Is a portable PA system necessary for grand piano performances?
For smaller venues or outdoor events, a portable PA system is highly beneficial, even for real grand piano performances.
It ensures that the full range of the piano sound is heard by everyone, providing amplification for both soft and loud passages without compromising the natural acoustics of the acoustic instrument.
Can a portable PA system be used with MIDI keyboards?
Yes, many portable PA systems are compatible with MIDI keyboards, making them a versatile tool for live performances.
These systems offer multiple input options, including USB and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect and amplify the sounds from your MIDI keyboard.
Should I choose an acoustic piano or a digital piano for my home?
A: When deciding between an acoustic piano and a digital piano, it's essential to consider your specific needs.
Acoustic pianos like baby grands or upright pianos offer rich, natural tones and a classic aesthetic, providing a grand feel to entire piano that's hard to replicate. However, digital pianos have come a long way, with many digital grand pianos offering a similar key action and beautiful sound.
Modern digital pianos often feature hammer action keys and internal sound engines that mimic the experience of playing a real piano.
They also come with headphone jacks for silent practice, which is a great option if you live in a shared space.
Digital pianos also offer so many more features like smart device connectivity, making them ideal for those who want to explore more than just traditional piano playing.
With various price ranges, digital pianos can suit both beginners and seasoned players alike.
How do digital pianos compare to acoustic pianos for learning?
A: Digital pianos are excellent for the learning process, especially with newer models featuring key action with sensitivity and triple sensors that closely emulate the feel of an acoustic piano.
Many piano teachers recommend high-end digital pianos for beginners, as they allow students to get familiar with key action and develop the correct playing technique.
Plus, digital pianos often have more features, such as built-in metronomes, different instrument voices, and the ability to connect to learning apps on smart devices.
While acoustic pianos may offer a more authentic feel, digital pianos provide flexibility and convenience. You can test digital pianos with a wide range of various piano sounds and tones, from stage piano models to Clavinova pianos.
The versatility of digital instruments allows for enhanced learning, with features like internal sounds and multiple sound engines that offer the best sound for practice and performance.
Conclusion
Choosing between an acoustic piano and a digital piano depends on your personal preferences, space, and budget. Digital pianos offer flexibility, advanced features, and the convenience of silent practice while still providing an authentic playing experience.
With so many features and various price ranges, finding the right piano for your needs is easier than ever.