Beginner ballad player
Wants to practise chords, melody and touch on a piano keyboard, so compares the key response of portable digital pianos. Yamaha, Roland, Casio and Korg describe the keyboard features of the models mentioned here.
Who is this buying guide for?
Loft-dweller who needs to keep the noise down
Wants to practise regularly with headphones and be considerate of others in the building. A headphone socket and an agreement about noise may matter more than a loud built-in speaker. The Dutch Government advises neighbours to discuss noise and agree on arrangements together.
Player with limited space
Needs to fit a full keyboard without overlooking the walking space or fixed layout. Casio and Korg list dimensions for the CDP-S110BK and B2+; check the measurements for the exact version.
What should you consider when choosing?
Start by deciding what matters most for your ballad practice: the key action, practising as quietly as possible, the space available or how you want to play along.
| What to consider | What to look for when buying | Who is this most important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key action and range | Try playing the keyboard yourself; check the number of keys and the stated keyboard mechanism. | If I want to practise with both hands and varied dynamics, I prioritise the key action over extra sounds. Around 36% of consumers put piano action and key range first. |
| Quiet practice | Check the headphone socket and, if needed, agree practice times with your neighbours; headphones do not automatically eliminate every audible key or contact noise. | If I want to practise without using the speakers, I look for a suitable socket and consider others in the building. Around 29% of consumers prioritise quiet practice. |
| Space for setup | Measure the available width and depth, and leave room for a stool and pedal; compare the dimensions of the exact model. | If my loft has little clear floor space, I want to know how much room the whole setup will take up. Around 21% of consumers put available space first. |
| Playing along and pedal use | Check which audio connection works with your playback device, and whether your preferred pedal is included or optional. | If I want to play along with a song, practise my timing or add pedal use later, I compare the connections and pedal options. Around 14% of consumers give these practice features top priority. |
Key things not to overlook
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Compact does not automatically mean it will fit
According to Casio, the CDP-S110BK is 232 mm deep, but it is also 1.322 mm wide. The Korg B2+ has different dimensions. Comparing depth alone therefore will not give you a complete picture of the space you need.
Measure the full setup, including room for a stool and pedal, before choosing a model.
A compatible optional pedal or pedal unit may need to be purchased separately.
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Bluetooth does not necessarily mean you can play audio through it
Yamaha describes the P-145BT as having Bluetooth audio. Roland warns that Bluetooth availability for the FP-10 may vary depending on the country of purchase.
Check whether the Bluetooth feature you want is available on the version sold in the Netherlands, and whether it supports audio playback.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
The P-145BT is a portable 88-key model for anyone who wants to play songs through the piano speakers; Yamaha lists Bluetooth audio.
- Yamaha specifies an 88-key GHC keyboard.
- The LP-5A console with three pedals is optional. Try the key action for yourself; a manufacturer's description cannot tell you whether you will enjoy the playing feel.
Roland
According to Roland, the FP-10 combines a PHA-4 Standard keyboard with built-in speakers and headphone use.
- Roland also lists a metronome.
- The DP-10 for half-pedalling is optional. Roland says Bluetooth availability may vary depending on the country of purchase; check the version sold in the Netherlands.
Casio
The CDP-S110BK is worth comparing if a shallow cabinet and portability are important to you.
- Casio lists 88 keys, a depth of 232 mm, a weight of 10,5 kg, a PHONES/OUTPUT socket and an included SP-3 pedal.
- The stated width is 1.322 mm. Remember to allow space for the player too; the manufacturer's measurements are not a measurement of your loft.
Korg
The B2+ is worth considering if you want a weighted keyboard with AUDIO IN and the option to expand your pedal setup.
- Korg specifies an NH keyboard, PHONES/Line Out, AUDIO IN and an included damper pedal.
- The stated cabinet depth is 336 mm. The PU-2 for half-pedalling is available separately.
Joybuy products
This selection features digital keyboard instruments with 61 keys, for anyone happy with a smaller range than an 88-key keyboard. Compare the listed features for each model and check that they suit the way you practise.
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MLS-931 digital piano with 61 weighted keys, black
Worth considering if you want weighted keys and are happy with a smaller range than 88 keys.
The product name lists 61 weighted keys, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, USB-MIDI, speakers and a headphone socket.
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Electronic keyboard with 61 keys, black
Could be a good fit if you want a keyboard with a smaller range and the listed practice features suit the way you learn.
The product name lists 61 keys, a recording function, speakers, a metronome, a music stand and a MIDI controller function.
Frequently asked questions
Can I practise with headphones at any time without worrying about my neighbours?
No, do not assume that headphones will prevent all disturbance. The Dutch Government advises neighbours to discuss noise and agree on arrangements together, such as when music can be played; its information page does not set a general practice time for all homes.
How should I set up a digital piano for practising a ballad?
Place the piano on a stable surface and leave enough room to sit comfortably. Check in advance which music stand, adapter and pedals come with the exact version: Korg says the B2+ comes with an adapter, music stand and damper pedal, while the PU-2 for half-pedalling is optional.
Do I need Bluetooth to play along with a song?
No, Bluetooth is not the only possible connection. Yamaha lists Bluetooth audio for the P-145BT, and Korg lists an AUDIO IN socket for the B2+. Choose based on your playback device, and check which Bluetooth features are available on other models.
What are your rights if you buy a piano online or it develops a fault soon after?
For a standard online consumer purchase in the Netherlands, you will generally have a statutory cooling-off period of up to 14 days after delivery, subject to legal exceptions; ACM ConsuWijzer explains these rules. If the piano breaks under normal use sooner than you could reasonably expect, you are entitled to an appropriate solution from the seller. There is no single fixed statutory guarantee period that applies to every piano.