Start with the keyboard: try the weighted action and key response to see whether they suit the finger exercises you want to practise. Then choose based on the space you have, whether you’ll use headphones and which connections you need. Manufacturer specifications describe features, but they can’t tell you which keyboard will feel comfortable under your fingers.
You practise scales, independence and dynamics, and want a keyboard whose key response you can assess for yourself. Yamaha, Casio, Roland and Kawai use different named keyboard actions; try them out yourself if you can.
You want to practise while others are at home, so you’re paying attention to headphone sockets and where the piano will go. Headphones won’t necessarily stop the sound of the keys or pedals from being heard.
You want to fit the piano in among your other equipment, so check its dimensions, stand and the connections you’ll actually use. Casio lists the CDP-S110BK as 232 mm deep; also check the space needed for the music rest and seating.
First compare the feel of the keys using your own exercises, then check that the piano, setup and connections will work in your home studio.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | Play the same slow and fast exercise on the models you’re considering, and compare their key response and dynamics. GHC, PHA-4 Standard and Responsive Hammer Compact are manufacturers’ names for different actions, not the result of a direct playing comparison. | When I practise finger exercises, I want to assess the touch properly before choosing a keyboard. Around 33% of consumers say control over key touch is their top priority. |
| Practising with headphones | Check how many sockets there are and the plug size. Roland lists two headphone sockets for the FP-30X, as does Kawai for the ES120. | When I want to listen through headphones at home, I look at the connections as well as whether the keys or pedals make audible noise. Around 27% of consumers put listening through headphones first. |
| Space and setup | Measure the available space, including room for the music rest and seating. Yamaha lists the P-145 as 268 mm deep without the music rest and 320 mm with it; Casio lists the CDP-S110BK as 232 mm deep. Also check which stand and pedals are included with the version you’re buying. | If my studio has limited space, I want a stable setup that will actually fit. Around 20% of consumers say space and setup are their top priority. |
| App and studio connections | Decide whether you need MIDI, an app connection or an audio signal, and check compatibility. Korg lists USB Type-C for the B2+; Roland lists separate outputs for the FP-30X, while Kawai lists line outputs and Bluetooth MIDI/audio for the ES120. | When I want to connect a learning app or other studio equipment, I check which connection I’ll need. Around 20% of consumers put connections to apps or equipment first. |
GHC, PHA-4 Standard and Responsive Hammer Compact refer to different actions. A model name won’t tell you which keyboard will feel comfortable under your fingers.
Try the same finger exercises on the models you’re considering and compare the touch for yourself.
What’s included can vary by version. Yamaha lists the LP-5A three-pedal unit for the P-145 as optional; Casio lists an SP-3 sustain pedal with the CDP-S110BK.
Before buying, check the exact model code and which items are included in the bundle.
You may need to buy a suitable stand, stool, headphones, cable or more advanced pedal unit separately. Check what your setup requires and what’s included.
USB Type-C, Bluetooth MIDI/audio and separate line outputs don’t necessarily serve the same purpose.
First decide whether you need MIDI, an app connection or audio output to other equipment, then check the connections on the exact model you’re considering.
The features listed apply to the models and versions described; they don’t prove which keyboard will feel best to every pianist.
The P-145 is a compact practice piano with a weighted GHC keyboard.
The FP-30X is a portable option if you’re looking for two headphone sockets and separate audio outputs.
The CDP-S110BK is a slim option for a practice setup you can move around.
The ES120 is worth a look if you want two headphone sockets, line outputs and wireless connections.
The B2+ is worth considering if you want a metronome and USB Type-C for a compatible device.
Headphones let you listen to the instrument without using its built-in speakers as your listening source, but they don’t guarantee that the keys or pedals will be inaudible. If noise is disturbing your neighbours, the Dutch government recommends discussing and agreeing arrangements with them first.
Measure the space, including room for the music rest and seating, choose a stable setup and check whether the pedal and stand you want are included with the exact version. Yamaha lists the LP-5A for the P-145 as optional; Casio lists an SP-3 pedal with the CDP-S110BK.
No, the connection you need depends on the app and your device. Korg lists USB Type-C for the B2+, while Kawai lists Bluetooth MIDI/audio for the ES120; check which connections your equipment supports.
When you buy at a distance, you generally have a 14-day cooling-off period, with some exceptions, according to the Dutch government. You’re also entitled to a product that’s fit for purpose: if there’s a problem, the retailer must provide a solution. These are consumer rights, not product specifications.
