Start with a keyboard that feels comfortable for practising repeated notes and playing at different volumes. Then decide whether you’ll mainly use headphones or keep the speakers turned down. Headphones limit the sound coming from the speakers for other people in your home, but they don’t make the keys themselves silent. So also compare the connections, the space you’ll need and whether the pedals you want are included with your chosen model.
You want to play scales without the piano coming through the speakers and filling the room, so you’re looking for headphone sockets and a comfortable listening volume. Roland describes headphone playback for the FP-10; Kawai lists two headphone socket sizes for the ES120.
You want to control the keyboard’s response during both soft and faster passages. The Yamaha P-145, Roland FP-10 and Korg B2 all have different keyboard features. The feel you prefer is personal, so it’s best to try them for yourself.
You have a small practice area, so you’re considering not just the piano but also the space for a stand, bench and any pedals. Casio lists a cabinet depth of 232 mm for the PX-S1100BK; Yamaha names an optional console with three pedals for the P-145.
First, consider how you want to listen to the piano. Then assess the key action and check whether the piano will fit in your practice area with the setup you want.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who this matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Listening without speakers | Check the type of headphone socket and play at a comfortable volume. The WHO points out that both sound level and exposure time matter. | If I practise while other people are at home, I want to hear my piano through headphones. Around 40% of consumers prioritise keeping the piano quieter for others. |
| Touch when playing scales | Compare the keyboard with soft, repeated and faster notes. Yamaha specifies an 88-key GHC keyboard for the P-145; Roland lists a PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-10. | When I practise scales at different tempos, I want to assess the key response for myself and choose a keyboard that suits my touch. Around 40% of consumers make touch control their main priority. |
| Space and setup | Compare the piano’s dimensions and allow for seating space and pedals too. Check whether your preferred console or pedal unit is included; Yamaha names the LP-5A for the P-145, while Korg lists the PU-2 for half-pedalling on the B2 as an accessory sold separately. | If space is limited in my practice area, I want to know whether the piano and the setup I need will fit before choosing a model. Around 20% of consumers give space and setup top priority. |
Headphones let you hear the piano’s sound, but they don’t automatically make the mechanical noise of the keys inaudible to others.
If possible, try playing the keys softly and quickly where you plan to practise.
Yamaha lists the LP-5A console as optional for the P-145. For half-pedalling on the Korg B2, Korg names the PU-2, which is sold separately.
Before ordering, check what’s included with the exact model and make sure it’s compatible.
A pedal expansion you want that’s sold separately may add to the cost and mean making an extra decision about your setup.
The Dutch government states that there is no fixed term for the statutory guarantee in the Netherlands, and that the seller must provide a solution if a product is faulty.
Keep your proof of purchase and the product description. If you have an additional warranty, check what it offers beyond your statutory rights.
The FP-10 is worth considering if you’re looking for a portable 88-key piano with headphone playback.
The ES120 is worth considering if headphone sockets and a metronome are important for your practice.
The P-145 is a compact option if you’re looking for an 88-key weighted keyboard.
The PX-S1100BK is worth a look if the depth of your practice area is a key constraint.
The B2 could suit you if you’re looking for a piano with a metronome and a wired connection.
The products below are 61-key models with a metronome. Check whether a 61-key keyboard suits your needs for practising scales.
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A model with a metronome to consider if you want to keep track of your tempo while practising.
The product title lists 61 keys, a MIDI controller, recording function, speakers and a music stand.
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A model to consider if you want to use a metronome when practising and are looking for a 61-key keyboard.
The product title lists a weighted keyboard, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, USB-MIDI, speakers, a headphone socket and a music stand.
No. Don’t assume that headphones will also block out the mechanical noise of the keys. If possible, try the keyboard where you plan to practise; headphone playback won’t tell you how audible the keys are there.
Start at a low volume and don’t automatically turn it up to hear more detail. The WHO points out that sound level, exposure time and how often you’re exposed to loud sounds all matter. The piano’s volume setting alone doesn’t measure the sound level at your ear.
No, you can practise scales without a pedal or an app. If you want to use a metronome, Korg lists one for the B2 and Kawai for the ES120. Check separately which pedals are included with your chosen model.
Follow the instructions for the exact model and use the power supply specified for it. For the ES120, Kawai says to connect the instrument to a mains socket with the specified voltage and to use the supplied adapter only with this instrument.
For distance purchases, you’re usually entitled to a 14-day cooling-off period, although there are exceptions. You’re also entitled to a product that meets acceptable standards; according to the Dutch government, there is no fixed term for the statutory guarantee in the Netherlands. Check the seller and the terms that apply to your specific order.
