Choosing the right digital piano can be a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. With so many options available, each boasting an array of features and benefits, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Luckily, we’ve done some of the heavy lifting and sifted through the myriad of choices to bring you the 8 best digital pianos tailored to suit players of all skill levels.
This guide has everything from budget-friendly models that don’t skimp on quality to professional-grade instruments that can elevate your expression.
What To Look For In A Digital Piano
When choosing the best digital piano, several features will affect playability, realism, and satisfaction. Understanding these can guide you to a suitable instrument, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pianist.
#1) Weighted Keys
Weighted keys mimic the resistance of acoustic piano keys, offering a more authentic playing experience. They’re crucial for developing proper finger technique and strength.
Pianos with weighted keys provide a tactile response similar to traditional pianos, making transitions smoother for players who switch between digital and acoustic pianos.
This feature mainly benefits beginners as it lays a solid foundation for learning good form. It’s also ideal for advanced players who seek an authentic touch.
#2) Hammer Action
Hammer action takes the concept of weighted keys further by replicating the mechanical action of hammers hitting strings in an acoustic piano.
This mechanism varies the response based on how hard a key is pressed. It offers dynamic control over the volume and expression of each note.
Digital pianos with detailed hammer action provide a depth of expression close to an acoustic piano. This would make them ideal for nuanced performances and advanced repertoire.
#3) Touch Sensitivity
Touch sensitivity refers to a digital piano’s ability to detect and respond to different pressures applied to the keys, translating into sound volume and timbre variations.
This feature enables musicians to express subtle nuances in their playing, from the softest pianissimo to the most robust fortissimo.
Adjustable touch sensitivity settings allow players to customize the keyboard’s response to suit their playing style. It also ensures a more comfortable and expressive playing experience across all skill levels.
The 8 Best Digital Pianos For All Skill Levels
Now let’s take a look at the 8 best digital pianos that are worth considering. Whether you’re a beginner learning to play in your bedroom or a professional performing live, these are your best bet.
#1) Casio CT-S300 – Best Budget Digital Piano
The Casio CT-S300 is an excellent choice for those on a budget, offering a portable and user-friendly design with 61 touch-sensitive keys.
It’s equipped with Casio’s renowned AiX Sound Source, which delivers a wide range of sound. This includes everything from grand pianos to synths, ensuring versatility for various musical genres.
It also includes a pitch bend wheel and USB connectivity for MIDI support, further enhancing its appeal. It also makes the CT-S300 ideal for beginners and intermediate players. Its built-in carrying handle and battery power option perfectly suit musicians on the go.
The CT-S300 provides impressive features and affordability, making it a top pick for those seeking value without sacrificing quality.
#2) Yamaha PSR-E373 – Ideal for Beginners
The Yamaha PSR-E373 is an ideal starter instrument for beginners, offering a rich set of features that foster musical growth.
It boasts 61 touch-sensitive keys with Yamaha’s AWM stereo sampling, delivering realistic sounds across a broad spectrum of instruments. The PSR-E373 includes a comprehensive library of 622 instrument voices and 205 auto-accompaniment styles, providing a solid foundation for exploration and creativity.
Additionally, it features Yamaha’s Education Suite, which aids learning and practice, making it a valuable tool for beginners.
The combination of quality sounds, educational features, and affordability makes the Yamaha PSR-E373 a standout choice for new players.
#3) Roland FP-10
The Roland FP-10 is an exceptional entry-level digital piano. It offers the acclaimed SuperNATURAL piano sound engine and PHA-4 Standard Keyboard action, which provides a highly responsive and expressive playing experience.
Its compact design, Bluetooth MIDI connectivity, and USB ports make it versatile and ideal for home practice, studio work, or performance settings.
With 88 fully weighted keys and a range of onboard sounds, the FP-10 caters well to beginners and experienced players looking for a quality instrument at an accessible price point.
The inclusion of features such as twin piano mode and a built-in metronome further supports learning and practice. The Roland FP-10 delivers premium sound and touch in a compact and affordable package, making it a solid choice for players at any skill level.
#4) Roland FP-30X – Great for Intermediate players
The Roland FP-30X builds upon the success of its predecessor with enhanced features suitable for intermediate players. It perfectly balances performance and portability, offering Roland’s SuperNATURAL piano sound and a responsive PHA-4 keyboard action.
With a higher polyphony count, improved speakers, and more onboard sounds than the FP-10, the FP-30X caters to those who seek an upgraded playing experience without venturing into high-end territory.
The inclusion of Bluetooth audio and MIDI connectivity adds convenience for practicing along with apps or playing music from external devices.
The FP-30X presents a compelling combination of quality, versatility, and value for intermediate players. It’s an excellent step up for those ready to advance their playing.
#5) Kawai ES920
The Kawai ES920 is recognized for its outstanding portability and exceptional performance aimed at advanced players. This model features Kawai’s Responsive Hammer III keyboard action and Harmonic Imaging sound technology. It offers a highly authentic acoustic piano feel and sound.
It’s equipped with a powerful speaker system, extensive voice selection, and versatile connectivity options, including Bluetooth MIDI, making it suitable for stage performances and home use.
The ES920 stands out for its realistic touch, expressive sound quality, and lightweight design. It’s an excellent choice for professionals needing a reliable instrument for practice and performance.
#6) Casio PX-870 – Perfect for Home Use
The Casio PX-870 offers a superior piano experience in a modern cabinet design, making it an ideal choice for home use. It features Casio’s AiR Sound Source, providing highly detailed acoustic sounds with seamless dynamics for a deeply expressive playing experience.
The Tri-sensor Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II ensures the touch is as close as possible to that of an acoustic piano. It has three sensors that capture the dynamics of a performance with unparalleled speed and accuracy.
Additionally, the PX-870 includes various digital features, such as a built-in library of songs, lesson functions, and the ability to record your performances.
With its stylish design, powerful sound projection system, and comprehensive feature set, the PX-870 is a fantastic option for students, educators, and anyone looking for a high-quality digital piano for their home.
#7) Kawai KDP120
The Kawai KDP120 is a standout digital piano in its class. It offers exceptional value and performance for both students and experienced pianists.
It boasts the Responsive Hammer Compact II keyboard action. This closely mimics the touch of an acoustic grand piano, providing a realistic playing experience. The piano also features Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging sound technology, ensuring each note is expressive and richly detailed.
With built-in lesson functions, a variety of instrument voices, and Bluetooth MIDI connectivity, the KDP120 is an excellent choice for home use. It also offers advanced features that support musical growth and development.
Its sleek design and built-in speakers make it a great addition to any living space, combining aesthetic appeal with high-quality sound.
#8) Yamaha CLP-735 – Best Professional Quality Digital Piano
The Yamaha CLP-735 represents the pinnacle of digital piano technology. It’s the ultimate choice for professionals seeking the highest quality instrument.
Part of Yamaha’s esteemed Clavinova series, the CLP-735 features the Real Grand Expression 2 (RGE2) sound engine and GrandTouch-S keyboard with escapement. This offers unparalleled tonal richness and an authentic piano touch.
The piano also includes Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM). This feature meticulously replicates acoustic pianos’ sympathetic and reverberant sounds, adding depth and realism to performances.
With a wide selection of voices, USB audio recording, and wireless connectivity for using smart devices as controllers, the CLP-735 is perfectly suited for advanced players, music educators, and anyone requiring the best in digital piano performance for studios, stages, or home settings.