Who is this suitable for?

Practising at home with minimal noise

If you want to repeat melodies often without playing music through speakers, look for a headphone socket. The keys may still be audible in the room; Roland describes headphone use for the FP-10, while Kawai explains the mechanical noise made by the keys.

Learning to play the piano

If you want to practise varying your touch, from soft to strong, as well as learning the notes, compare the key action and any touch settings. Casio, Korg and Yamaha describe models with 88 keys and piano-focused keyboards.

A limited practice space

If space is tight, measure the area for the instrument, as well as the space needed for a stand and seat. Casio, Korg and Yamaha describe compact or portable models; check the dimensions of the version you’re considering.

What should you look for when choosing?

For playing folk melodies at a low volume, first decide how you want to hear the sound. Then check that the keyboard, available space and included accessories suit the way you practise.

What to consider What should you check? Who is this important for?
Quiet practice Check that the exact version has a headphone socket, and consider how loud the keys sound in your practice space. If you often want to practise without sound from the speakers, a headphone socket is important; around 40% of consumers prioritise quiet practice.
Touch and range Compare the key action and touch settings. Choose the number of keys to suit your sheet music and available space. If you want to develop a piano-style touch as well as learn the notes, focus on the keyboard; around 30% of consumers prioritise touch and playing range.
Positioning Measure the space for the instrument and allow room for a stand and seat. If your practice space is limited or you want to move the instrument regularly, a suitable set-up is important; around 20% of consumers prioritise space and positioning.
Practice set-up Check whether a metronome, music rest, pedal, power supply and, where applicable, stand are included with that version. If you want to get started easily with a set-up that suits your practice plan, the package contents matter; around 10% of consumers check these first.

Common pitfalls

  • Assuming headphones make the piano completely silent

    The speakers won’t need to play music, but the keys may still be audible in the room. Kawai describes this mechanical noise on digital pianos.

    Try the instrument at the volume you intend to practise at, and listen separately to the sound of the keys in the room where you’ll be playing.

  • Assuming a standalone instrument comes with everything you need at home

    A pedal or stand isn’t necessarily included with every version. Korg says the B2 comes with a damper pedal and music rest, while the PU-2 for half-pedal use is available separately.

    Compare the offer’s contents with the set-up you need.

    You may need to buy a stand, bench or more advanced pedal separately. Check which items are included with the version you’ve chosen.

  • Relying on a description for a different version of the model

    Features and accessories can vary between versions on sale. For example, Roland notes that Bluetooth may not be available in every country where the FP-10 is sold.

    Check the full model name and the Dutch listing before relying on a particular feature or accessory.

Brands to compare

Yamaha

Yamaha describes the P-145 as a portable entry-level model with 88 GHC keys, designed for playing the piano in smaller spaces.

  • Yamaha notes its compact design and the optional LP-5A three-pedal unit.
  • Check the connections and package contents for the version you choose; these features aren’t automatically included with every Yamaha piano.

Roland

Roland describes the FP-10 as having 88 PHA-4 Standard keys, headphone use and a metronome.

  • These features may be useful if you want to practise with headphones and a steady beat.
  • Roland warns that Bluetooth may not be available in every country where the piano is sold. Check the Dutch version if this feature is important to you.

Casio

Casio describes the CDP-S110 as having 88 Scaled Hammer Action II keys and a PHONES/OUTPUT socket.

  • Casio Europe lists an SP-3 pedal as included, along with the option to use mains or battery power.
  • Check the power supply and accessories included with the European version on offer.

Kawai

The ES120 is worth comparing if weighted touch and headphone settings matter to you. Kawai describes two headphone socket sizes for this model.

  • Kawai describes cushioning in the key action.
  • This manufacturer description doesn’t mean the physical sound of the keys disappears.

Korg

According to Korg, the B2 has 88 weighted keys, a metronome and a combined PHONES/LINE OUT socket.

  • Korg lists a damper pedal and music rest as included.
  • For half-pedal use, Korg lists the PU-2 as available separately. Check which version and accessories are on offer.

Joybuy product picks

These picks include two instruments with 61 keys. Compare their range with your sheet music and, before buying, check the headphone socket, included accessories and whether the exact version is suitable for use in the Netherlands.

MLS-931 digital piano with 61 keys

MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys

Could be a good fit if you’re looking for a 61-key keyboard to practise melodies on; check that its range suits your sheet music.

The product name lists weighted keys, a headphone socket, 300 tones and 300 rhythms.

Before buying, check the headphone socket, included power supply and required CE marking for the exact version.

Joybuy
Electronic keyboard with 61 keys and music rest

Electronic keyboard, 61 keys

Could be a good fit if you’re looking for a keyboard with practice features; check that its range suits your repertoire and that the version has the headphone socket you want.

The product name lists a metronome, recording function, speakers and music rest.

Before buying, check the included power supply and required CE marking for the exact version.

Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Does practising with headphones make the piano completely silent?

No. The speakers won’t need to play music, but the keys may still make a physical sound. Check this in the room where you’ll be practising; Kawai describes mechanical key noise on digital pianos.

How should I use headphones during longer practice sessions?

Start at a low volume and take regular breaks. The World Health Organization notes that both volume and listening time contribute to the risk of hearing damage.

What should I consider when setting up and maintaining the piano?

Use the power supply specified for the exact instrument, place it on a stable surface and keep liquids away. Follow the manual for your chosen model; Kawai’s ES120 safety instructions include using the specified mains voltage and keeping the instrument away from water.

What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?

Many distance purchases generally come with a 14-day cooling-off period, subject to exceptions. The Dutch Government explains this period. ACM ConsuWijzer also says that the seller must put things right if, under normal use, a product doesn’t do what you were entitled to expect.

What should I check about the safety of a digital piano on offer?

Check the required CE marking and accompanying safety information for the exact version and included power supply. The Dutch Government says that electronic devices offered for sale in the EU must carry CE marking; a model being mentioned on this page doesn’t confirm that a particular listing complies.