Embarking on the journey to find the best electric pianos can be an exhilarating yet daunting task, especially for those just dipping their toes into the vast ocean of musical instruments.
The quest for the perfect digital piano involves navigating through a myriad of options, each boasting unique features that cater to different needs and preferences. For beginners, the tactile response of the keys—whether they mimic the weighted feel of a concert grand or offer a lighter touch—is paramount in developing proper technique and muscle memory.
Choosing a digital piano that suits your needs involves considering several factors, including the variety of included sounds and the presence of built-in speakers that deliver clear audio without the need for external amplification. High-end models may also feature headphone jacks for private practice and recording functions that allow musicians to capture and critique their performances.
In essence, the journey to finding the electric pianos is about balancing one’s musical aspirations with the practicalities of space, budget, and features. Whether you seek the feel of an acoustic piano or the versatility of digital enhancements, there’s a digital piano out there that’s perfect for you. Remember, the goal is not just to find a good digital piano but the perfect digital piano that resonates with your personal musical journey.
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall Electric Piano: Casio CT-S300
Dive into the world of music with the Casio CT-S300, a standout among the electric pianos for enthusiasts and budding musicians alike. Compact, versatile, and loaded with features, it’s designed to inspire creativity and growth.
Whether you’re practicing at home, performing on stage, or jamming with friends, the CT-S300 offers an exceptional blend of quality and portability, making it a top choice for those seeking a musical companion that can keep up with their dynamic lifestyle.
Specifications:
- Keys: 61 full-size touch-responsive keys
- Touch Sensitivity: 2 levels of sensitivity, plus fixed
- Sound Preset: 400x sound samples
- Polyphony: 48 notes
- Battery Life: 16 hours from 6 AA batteries
- Dimensions: 93cm x 25.6cm x 7.3cm
- Weight: 3.3 kg (8.8 pounds)
- Built-in Speakers: Yes, with ample volume for personal enjoyment or small performances
Who Is It For?
The Casio CT-S300 is the perfect digital piano for beginners, hobbyists, and traveling musicians. Its lightweight design and battery-powered option make it ideal for those on the move, offering the freedom to play anywhere. With 400 included sounds, from piano feels to concert grand sound samples, it caters to a wide range of musical tastes and styles.
The touch-responsive keys provide a dynamic playing experience, although they may not mimic the wooden key action of high-end models or traditional pianos. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a good digital piano that balances functionality, portability, and affordability.
Whether you’re choosing a digital piano for the first time or looking to add a versatile instrument to your collection, the CT-S300 stands out as one of the electric pianos for delivering enjoyable playing experiences and fostering musical creativity.
Best Beginner Keyboard Piano: Yamaha PSR-E373
Dive into the world of music with one of the electric pianos for beginners, the Yamaha PSR-E373. Its user-friendly design and rich features make it the perfect choice for those embarking on their musical journey.
Compact and versatile, this keyboard invites you to explore a wide range of sounds and rhythms, ensuring a fun and engaging learning experience.
Specifications:
- Keys: 61 touch-sensitive keys
- Polyphony: 48-note polyphony
- Voices: 622 high-quality voices
- Styles: 205 auto accompaniment styles
- Songs: 154 preset songs
- Effects: Reverb, Chorus, DSP, Master EQ, Harmony
- Lesson Function: Y.E.S (Yamaha Education Suite)
- Connectivity: USB to HOST audio and MIDI
Who Is It For?
The Yamaha PSR-E373 is an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for the electric pianos to start their musical journey. With its touch-sensitive keys, it offers a responsive playing experience that mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, making it easier for new learners to adapt.
The extensive library of voices and styles opens up a world of musical genres to explore, from classical to contemporary, ensuring that learning is never monotonous. The built-in Yamaha Education Suite provides valuable practice tools for self-learners, making it a comprehensive package for anyone eager to learn piano.
Whether you’re a young student or an adult picking up a new hobby, the PSR-E373 offers the perfect blend of functionality and fun to keep you motivated and engaged in your musical exploration.
Best Beginner Electric Piano: Roland FP-10
Among the electric pianos for beginners, the Roland FP-10 stands out with its unmatched quality and affordability. Its compact design and expressive, rich piano sounds make it an ideal choice for those starting their musical journey.
This instrument promises to bring the joy of music into any home, captivating the hearts of aspiring pianists with its elegance and simplicity.
Specifications:
- Weight: 14.1 kg
- Keys: 88 with hammer action
- Touch Sensitivity: 5 types, fixed touch
- Sound Engine: SuperNATURAL Piano
- Polyphony: 96 voices
- Built-in Speakers: 6W + 6W
- Connectors: USB to computer, Bluetooth MIDI, headphone jack
- Included Sounds: 15, including grand piano and electric piano
Who Is It For?
The Roland FP-10 is the perfect digital piano for beginners and intermediate players looking for the feel and sound of a real acoustic piano without the high cost or space requirements of traditional pianos. Its 88 hammer-action keys offer the authentic touch of a concert grand, making it an excellent choice for those who value the nuances of piano feels.
With built-in speakers and headphone jacks, it’s suited for both private practice and small performances. Whether you’re practicing at home, taking lessons, or composing, the FP-10 provides a solid foundation for developing your skills. Its Bluetooth MIDI connectivity also makes it a good digital piano for tech-savvy users who enjoy using apps to enhance their learning experience.
If you’re choosing a digital piano that balances quality, affordability, and technological features, the Roland FP-10 is among the electric pianos to consider.
Best Intermediate Digital Piano: Roland FP-30X
Dive into the world of music with one of the electric pianos on the market, the Roland FP-30X. Compact, stylish, and packed with features, this digital piano is designed to elevate your musical journey.
Whether you’re practicing at home, performing live, or composing, the FP-30X delivers exceptional sound and touch that inspires creativity. Perfect for intermediate players, it’s a musical companion that grows with you.
Specifications:
- Piano Sound: SuperNATURAL Piano
- Max. Polyphony: 256
- Tones: 321 available tones
- Keyboard: 88 keys (PHA-4 Standard Keyboard with Escapement and Ivory Feel)
- Speakers: Powerful onboard speakers
- Connectivity: Bluetooth MIDI for wireless connection to devices
- Weight: 14.8 kg (32.6 lbs)
- Dimensions: 1300 x 284 x 151 mm (without music rest)
Who Is It For?
The Roland FP-30X is the ideal choice for the aspiring musician looking for the electric pianos that offer a blend of quality, performance, and value. Whether you’re a student honing your skills, a teacher providing lessons, or a gigging musician needing a reliable instrument for performances, the FP-30X caters to a wide range of needs.
Its SuperNATURAL Piano sound and high polyphony count ensure a rich and expressive playing experience, while Bluetooth MIDI connectivity opens up a world of educational and creative apps.
Compact and portable, yet robust and versatile, the FP-30X is perfect for those who want a digital piano that can keep up with their musical journey, from practice to stage.
Best Professional Digital Piano: Kawai ES920
Among the electric pianos, the Kawai ES920 stands out for its unmatched blend of portability and exceptional musical quality. It’s designed to deliver the rich sound and authentic feel of a concert grand piano in a sleek, lightweight package. Perfect for musicians who demand the best in sound and playability without compromise.
Specifications:
- Responsive Hammer III action: Ensures a realistic key feel with triple sensor detection.
- Harmonic Imaging XL technology: Offers detailed piano sounds from Kawai’s concert grand pianos.
- 256 note polyphony: Allows for complex musical passages without note drop-off.
- 38 voices: Includes a wide range of sounds to suit any musical style.
- Bluetooth MIDI and Audio: For wireless connectivity with devices and apps.
- Built-in speakers: High-quality audio output with 40W power.
- Weight: Just 17 kg, making it easily portable.
- Virtual Technician: Customize piano sounds with 21 adjustable parameters.
Who Is It For?
The Kawai ES920 is the perfect digital piano for serious musicians and professionals who seek the feel and sound of a real acoustic piano but need the flexibility and portability that traditional pianos can’t offer.
Whether you’re practicing at home, teaching students, or performing on stage, the ES920 delivers top-tier performance. Its Responsive Hammer III action and Harmonic Imaging XL sound technology ensure that each note and dynamic is captured with the authenticity of a concert grand piano.
The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity and built-in speakers makes it a versatile choice for integrating with other devices and playing in various settings. If you’re choosing a digital piano that offers the perfect blend of playability, portability, and quality, the ES920 is among the electric pianos available.
Best Electric Piano for Home: Casio PX-870
Among the electric pianos for home use, the Casio PX-870 stands out for its remarkable sound quality and sleek design. This piano promises an authentic playing experience, making it a favorite for families and solo artists alike. Its compact size fits perfectly in any room, inviting music into your home with every note.
Specifications:
- Weight: 35.7 lbs (16.2 kg)
- Keys: 88, Tri-sensor Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II
- Polyphony: 256 notes
- Tones: 19 instrument tones
- Speakers: 20W + 20W (2-way, 4-speaker system)
- Dimensions: 55.08 x 11.77 x 31.54 inches
- Connectivity: USB to Host, 3 Pedals, Headphone Jacks (2)
- Features: Concert Play, Hall Simulator, Chordana Play for Piano app compatibility
Who Is It For?
The Casio PX-870 is designed for those who seek the electric pianos that offer a blend of sophistication and performance. Whether you’re a budding musician honing your skills, a family looking to add a musical touch to your home, or an experienced player in need of a reliable practice instrument, the PX-870 meets your needs.
Its realistic sound and touch response mimic an acoustic piano, while the powerful built-in speakers fill your space with rich, immersive music. The elegant design complements any room, making it not just an instrument but a piece of home decor.
Ideal for both practice and performance, the PX-870 serves as a musical companion for anyone passionate about piano, from beginners to more advanced players.
Best Compact Digital Piano: Kawai KDP120
Dive into the world of electric pianos with the Kawai KDP120, a standout choice for both beginners and seasoned players. Its sleek design, combined with cutting-edge technology, offers an unparalleled playing experience.
Perfect for those seeking a compact yet powerful digital piano, the KDP120 promises to captivate with its rich sounds and responsive touch.
Specifications:
- Weight: 37 kg (81.5 lbs)
- Keys: 88 fully weighted with matte black/white keytops
- Action: Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHCII)
- Sound Engine: Harmonic Imaging, SK-EX Concert Grand Samples
- Polyphony: 192-note
- Instrument Sounds: 15 (including 4 pianos)
- Speakers: 20W + 20W
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.1 (MIDI), USB to Host, Headphone jacks (2)
Who Is It For?
The Kawai KDP120 is the perfect digital piano for those who crave the feel and sound of a real acoustic piano without the space or budget for a grand piano. Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or a more experienced player looking for a good digital piano to practice on, the KDP120’s Responsive Hammer Compact II action and SK-EX concert grand piano sounds provide an authentic playing experience.
Its built-in speakers deliver clear, room-filling sound, making it ideal for home use. The addition of Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy integration with music apps, enhancing the learning and playing experience.
If you’re choosing a digital piano that combines the traditional feel of an acoustic with the modern features of digital pianos, the Kawai KDP120 stands out as one of the electric pianos on the market.
Best Wooden Electric Piano: Donner DDP-80
Among the electric pianos, the Donner DDP-80 stands out for its elegant wooden design and superior sound quality. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned players, this piano combines modern digital technology with traditional aesthetics, making it a delightful addition to any home.
Specifications:
- Weight: Approximately 45 kg (a typical weight for digital pianos with a wooden stand)
- Keys: 88 fully-weighted hammer action keys
- Sound: Multiple built-in voices and demo songs
- Connectivity: USB MIDI connectivity
- Speakers: Built-in stereo speakers
- Pedals: 3-pedal system (sustain, soft, sostenuto)
- Dimensions: Standard upright piano size
- Finish: Wood grain finish for an elegant look
Who Is It For?
The Donner DDP-80 is ideal for anyone looking to blend the classic feel of an acoustic piano with the versatility of digital features. It’s among the electric pianos for students who are serious about their progression, as well as for experienced musicians seeking a reliable instrument for practice or composition at home.
The weighted keys offer an authentic playing experience, while its connectivity options make it perfect for those who want to explore digital music production. Its elegant design ensures it will be a beautiful addition to your living space, making it suitable for both practice and as a piece of home decor. Whether you’re learning your first chords or composing intricate pieces, the DDP-80 is designed to meet your needs.
What I Wish I Knew Before I Got The Electric Pianos?
- Size and Space: Understand the size of the electric piano and ensure you have adequate space. Some regret not buying a size that fits their living space better.
- Key Action Quality: The importance of realistic key action in the electric pianos for an authentic playing experience.
- Sound Samples: The variety and quality of sound samples in the electric pianos can significantly impact satisfaction.
- Features and Connectivity: The range of features and connectivity options like USB, MIDI, and audio inputs/outputs. Knowing which features are essential for your needs is crucial.
- Brand and Model: Researching the brand and model thoroughly to avoid regrets about not choosing a different brand or model that might have offered more value or better performance.
- Headphones and Amplification: The need for good quality headphones or amplification for private practice or performance was overlooked by some.
Is an electric piano as good as a real one?
When considering the purchase of an electric piano, it’s essential to understand how it compares to an acoustic one. The electric pianos offer remarkable sound quality and versatility, closely mimicking the rich, resonant tones of their acoustic counterparts.
These instruments are designed with advanced sampling and synthesis technology, ensuring that the electric pianos deliver a range of sounds suitable for various musical genres, from classical to jazz and beyond. Additionally, the electric pianos provide benefits such as volume control, headphone connectivity for silent practice, and the ability to connect to recording equipment and computers for composition and production work.
While traditional pianos have the edge in terms of natural sound and feel, the electric pianos offer a practical and flexible alternative for both beginners and experienced musicians, making them a worthy consideration for anyone looking to buy an electric piano.
Their portability and maintenance-free design further add to their appeal, ensuring that the electric pianos are a smart investment for those seeking the joy of playing piano without the constraints of space and upkeep associated with acoustic pianos.
How much does a decent electric piano cost?
The cost of a decent electric piano varies widely, depending on features, brand, and quality. For those in the market for the electric pianos, prices can range from around $600 for entry-level models to over $2,500 for high-end options. The electric pianos offer a balance between realistic sound, touch, and affordability.
For beginners, models like the Roland FP-10 and Yamaha P45 are praised for their close emulation of a grand piano’s sound and touch, with prices around $600, making them excellent choices. On the higher end, the Casio Privia PX-S7000 and Roland FP-90X are among the electric pianos, offering advanced features and superior sound quality for under $2,500.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, the electric pianos are designed to meet various needs and budgets, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every player.
Should I buy an electric piano or keyboard?
Choosing between an electric piano and a keyboard depends on your musical goals and preferences. The electric pianos are designed to replicate the feel and sound of acoustic pianos, featuring weighted keys that mimic the hammer action of traditional pianos.
This makes the electric pianos ideal for students and professionals seeking an authentic piano experience for practice and performance. On the other hand, keyboards are more versatile and portable but often lack the weighted keys and depth of sound found in the electric pianos.
If your focus is on classical piano playing or you desire the touch and feel of a real piano, the electric pianos are the superior choice. They offer a balance of sound quality, touch sensitivity, and dynamics that closely resemble an acoustic piano, making them a worthwhile investment for serious pianists.
Is it OK to learn piano on a keyboard?
Learning piano on a keyboard is absolutely acceptable, especially for beginners. The electric pianos, which offer weighted keys and a full 88-key range, provide a learning experience very close to that of an acoustic piano. These features are crucial for developing proper finger technique and dynamics.
While the electric pianos are preferred for their realistic touch and sound, starting on a keyboard has its advantages, such as affordability and portability. It’s important to choose the electric pianos that offer touch sensitivity and a wide range of sounds to explore different musical styles.
As skills advance, the transition to an acoustic piano or a higher-end electric piano becomes smoother. Ultimately, the electric pianos are excellent for learning and can support a student’s musical journey from beginner to advanced levels.
Do digital pianos need tuning?
Digital pianos, including the electric pianos, do not require tuning. Unlike acoustic pianos, which need regular tuning due to string tension changes from environmental factors, the electric pianos use digital samples and sound synthesis to produce music.
This means the best electric pianos maintain their pitch and sound quality without the need for periodic adjustments, saving time and maintenance costs. Additionally, the electric pianos offer a variety of sounds and features that acoustic pianos cannot, such as different instrument voices, recording capabilities, and MIDI connectivity.
This lack of maintenance, combined with their versatility and consistent sound quality, makes the electric pianos an attractive option for both beginners and experienced musicians alike, ensuring a hassle-free playing experience.
Do I need 61 or 88 keys?
Deciding between 61 or 88 keys for your electric piano purchase depends on your musical aspirations and space considerations. The electric pianos with 88 keys offer a full range, identical to that of an acoustic piano, making them the preferred choice for classical musicians and those intending to develop a comprehensive piano technique.
These models allow for a broader repertoire, including all genres of music without limitation. On the other hand, the electric pianos with 61 keys are more compact and portable, suitable for beginners, players with space constraints, or musicians who focus on pop, rock, or electronic music genres where the full range might not be necessary.
However, investing in the electric pianos with 88 keys is advisable for anyone serious about their piano studies or aspiring to play a wide variety of music. This ensures that as your skills progress, you won’t be restricted by the range of your instrument. Ultimately, the electric pianos are those that fit your current needs while also accommodating your growth as a musician.
