Piano student
You practise scales for piano lessons and want to assess the range and key action before considering extra sounds. Yamaha, Roland and Korg specify an 88-key keyboard with a defined key action for the models mentioned here.
Who is this guide for?
User of a shared music room
You want to practise at agreed times using a headphone socket that suits your headphones. Headphones reduce the sound from the speakers, but they do not eliminate the mechanical noise of the keys.
Student who moves their instrument
You want to put the piano away after practising or move it to another practice space, so you compare the dimensions, weight and power supply of specific models. Casio, Korg and Yamaha list relevant model details, including cabinet depth, width or power supply.
What should you look for when choosing?
Start with the key action and range that suit your lesson goals. Then compare the practice features and measure whether the complete set-up will fit in your shared room.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who should pay extra attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Piano action and key range | Compare the key action of the exact model and work out the range you need from your lesson materials. | If I’m practising major scales for piano lessons, I want an action and range that suit the task; around 36% of consumers prioritise piano action and key range. |
| Practising with headphones | Check that the socket and plug size suit your headphones, and agree practice times with other users. | In a shared room, I want to practise without sound from the speakers while bearing in mind that key noise may still be audible; around 29% of consumers prioritise practising with headphones. |
| Tempo and self-assessment | Check whether the metronome is controlled on the instrument or through an app, and whether playback is useful for your practice. | If I want to repeat scales at a set tempo or listen back to my playing, I look for these features; around 21% of consumers prioritise tempo and self-assessment. |
| Storage and set-up | Measure the width and depth of the available space, and check the weight, power supply and included accessories. | If I need to put the instrument away after use, the complete set-up has to fit in the room; around 14% of consumers prioritise storage and the space needed for the set-up. |
Common buying mistakes
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Focusing only on the 88 keys
The number of keys tells you the range, but not how the keyboard feels when you play scales repeatedly. Manufacturers specify different types of key action.
Compare the key action of the exact model and try it out, ideally at the tempo and with the dynamics you use in lessons.
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Assuming a slim cabinet means the instrument will fit anywhere
A shallow cabinet does not mean the piano is also narrow. The width of a full-size keyboard and the space needed for a stand matter too.
Measure the complete set-up and the space where the instrument will go after use, not just the cabinet depth.
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Assuming pedals and stands are included
The contents of the version you choose may differ from the accessories listed as optional for a model.
Compare what is included in the specific offer with what you need for your practice set-up.
If a suitable stand or pedal unit is not included, you may need to arrange these separately.
Brands to compare
Yamaha
The portable P-145BT is worth considering if you’re looking for a piano-focused model with 88 keys.
- Yamaha lists a GHC keyboard and Bluetooth audio for the P-145BT.
- The LP-5A three-pedal unit is optional, so check what’s included in the bundle you choose.
Roland
The FP-10 is a portable 88-key model to compare if a metronome and lesson features matter to you.
- Roland lists a PHA-4 Standard keyboard, headphone use, a metronome and Twin Piano for the FP-10.
- Roland says Bluetooth availability varies by country, so check the version sold in the Netherlands.
Casio
The CDP-S110 is worth comparing if a shallow cabinet and flexible power options are important to you.
- Casio lists a depth of 232 mm, mains or battery power, an included SP-3 pedal and metronome settings controlled through an app.
- A shallow cabinet does not tell you how much width you’ll need; also check whether app control suits your practice routine.
Korg
The B2 is an 88-key model to compare if you want an easy-to-use metronome and a straightforward piano set-up.
- Korg lists NH hammer action, metronome settings and a PHONES/LINE OUT socket.
- A stand and the PU-2 pedal unit are listed as separate accessories, so check what is included in the offer you choose.
Kawai
The portable ES120 is worth considering if you want to compare the key action as well as the metronome and playback features.
- Kawai lists a weighted Responsive Hammer Compact keyboard, a metronome, a song recorder and headphone sockets.
- The description of a realistic playing feel is a claim made by Kawai, not an independent measurement.
Joybuy product picks
These Joybuy product picks include portable 61-key models for practising with a metronome or listening back to your playing. Bear in mind that their range is more limited than that of an 88-key model.
No image available
MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys
An option if you’re looking for a portable 61-key model for practising scales; its range is more limited than that of an 88-key model.
The product name specifies a weighted keyboard.
No image available
Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys
An option if you’re looking for a 61-key model to practise on; its range is more limited than that of an 88-key model.
The product name specifies a music stand.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need 88 keys to practise major scales?
No, 88 keys are not a rule you need to follow when buying a piano. Work out the range you need from your lesson materials and any guidance from your teacher; the number of keys alone tells you nothing about the action.
Can I practise in complete silence with headphones?
No, headphones do not stop the moving keys from making a sound. Check that the socket is compatible with your headphones, and agree practice times with anyone else using the room.
What do I need to start practising straight away?
Check whether the version you choose includes a power supply, music stand and any pedals. For example, Casio lists an SP-3 pedal with the CDP-S110, while Yamaha lists the LP-5A three-pedal unit for the P-145BT as optional. If you’re practising scales without using a pedal, you may not need a separate pedal unit.
What are my rights in the Netherlands if my piano bought online does not work properly?
When you buy as a consumer, the product must be of satisfactory quality; according to the Dutch government, there is no fixed time limit for the statutory guarantee in the Netherlands. For eligible distance sales, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period. Check the terms that apply to your specific purchase.