A pianist who needs to practise quietly
Practises a performance piece when housemates or neighbours need to hear as little sound from the speakers as possible, and wants to control the listening volume through headphones.
Who is this choice relevant to?
A pianist refining their expression
Wants to assess quiet passages, fast notes and pedal use in their own piece. Trying out the keyboard and pedal matters more than relying on specifications alone.
A pianist with limited space
Needs a piano that fits the available space while allowing for a stable playing setup.
What should you look for?
Start by trying your own piece to see how the piano feels to play. Then compare the headphone connection, pedal controls and the space needed for the complete setup.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet practice | Check the headphone connection on the exact model and make sure your headphones are compatible. Keep the volume at a modest level during longer sessions. | If I practise when other people are at home, I want to hear the piano through headphones. Around 36% of consumers say quiet practice is their top priority. |
| Touch and dynamics | Try a quiet passage and fast repeated notes from your own piece on the model, and compare its response with what you’re used to. | If you want to refine the dynamics of a performance piece, a keyboard that suits your touch can help. Around 29% of consumers put keyboard feel first. |
| Pedal controls | Check which pedal comes with the model and what pedal controls it supports. Try the pedal passages in your piece. | If sustaining and releasing notes are important in my piece, I want to know in advance which pedal controls are available. Around 21% of consumers prioritise pedal expression. |
| Space and setup | Measure your playing area and check the dimensions of the piano, stand and any other components you plan to use. | If space is limited, I want to make sure the complete setup will fit and be stable. Around 14% of consumers start by considering the space they need. |
Common buying pitfalls
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Assuming Bluetooth audio means you can use Bluetooth headphones
The Roland FP-30X does not support Bluetooth headphones, even though the model can receive audio via Bluetooth. Roland says to connect wired headphones to a Phones socket.
Check the Bluetooth features and headphone connection separately for the exact model.
You may need compatible wired headphones or a plug adapter.
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Assuming every included sustain pedal supports half-pedalling
The Kawai ES120 is listed with an F-1SP on/off pedal. Compatible alternatives with half-pedalling are available separately.
Check what’s included with your chosen model and which pedals are compatible, then try the pedal passages in your piece.
If you need half-pedalling, you may have to buy a different compatible pedal separately.
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Measuring only the piano itself
The piano’s dimensions don’t tell you how much space the complete setup, including the stand, bench and pedals, will take up.
Measure the intended playing area and check the dimensions and contents of the exact model.
You may need a suitable stand or a different setup.
Piano brands to consider
Yamaha
The P series is worth considering if you’re looking for a portable piano with a weighted keyboard.
- Yamaha lists 88 GHC keys and support for an optional three-pedal unit for the P-225.
- Try the touch for yourself and check whether the pedal unit is included with your chosen model.
Roland
The FP-30X is a portable option if you want an 88-key keyboard and wired headphones.
- Roland lists two headphone outputs.
- Roland says the FP-30X does not support Bluetooth headphones. Try the touch for yourself.
Kawai
The ES120 is a portable option if you want to compare damper pedal features.
- Kawai lists an included on/off pedal and compatible alternatives with half-pedalling.
- Check which pedal option you’re choosing. Specifications can’t tell you which playing feel will suit you.
Casio
The Privia PX-S1100BK is worth considering if you need an 88-key piano that fits into a compact space.
- Casio lists a cabinet depth of 232 mm for this model, and the manual specifies wired headphone connections.
- That measurement is for the piano itself. Allow space for a stable playing setup too, and try the touch for yourself.
Digital pianos at Joybuy
These digital pianos selected from Joybuy have 61 keys. Check that the range suits your performance piece.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
With 61 keys, so check that the range and touch suit your performance piece. Also check the headphone connection and pedal options on this model.
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Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys, black
With 61 keys, so check that the range and touch suit your performance piece. Also check the headphone connection and pedal options on this model.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Bluetooth headphones with the Roland FP-30X?
No. Roland says the FP-30X does not support Bluetooth earbuds or headphones. Connect wired headphones to one of the Phones sockets.
What should I bear in mind when setting up and using a digital piano?
Make sure your setup is stable and follow the power and safety instructions for the exact model. Start with the headphone volume low and take listening breaks during longer sessions. The World Health Organization points out that both volume and listening time matter for your hearing.
What can I do if a piano I bought in the Netherlands isn’t working properly?
According to the Dutch government, the seller must provide a solution if a product is faulty. The Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period; what you can expect from a product depends, among other things, on the product itself and the information you were given when you bought it.
Do I have a cooling-off period when buying online in the Netherlands?
For many eligible distance purchases from a business, you have a 14-day cooling-off period. The Dutch government lists exceptions and distinguishes between a business and a private seller, so check who you’re buying from and which terms apply to your purchase.