Start by checking the range and pedal technique required by your recital piece, then compare the feel of a full piano keyboard. If you practise while others are at home, check the headphone options for the exact model. Before choosing a set-up, also measure the space for the piano, stand, seat and pedals.
Who is this buying guide for?
Recital pianist
You want to practise the touch, dynamics and range of your piece with a clear focus. Also check which pedal technique the score calls for.
Quiet home-practice pianist
You share your home or practise while others are at home. Headphones let you hear the piano without using the speakers, but they won’t automatically block every key or contact noise.
Pianist with limited space
Your guest bedroom needs to remain usable for other purposes too. So compare the space taken up by the complete playing set-up, not just the piano’s dimensions.
What should you look for when buying?
| What to consider |
What to look for when buying |
Who is this important for? |
| Touch and keyboard range |
Compare the score’s range with the exact keyboard. If possible, try playing soft, loud and fast passages yourself. |
For my recital piece, I want to practise the required range and play with different dynamics. Around 33% of consumers prioritise touch and keyboard range. |
| Practising with headphones |
Check the connection and try the instrument with your usual headphones at your preferred practice volume. |
When I practise while others are at home, I want to listen to the piano through headphones. Around 27% of consumers prioritise quiet practice. |
| Pedal technique |
Read the pedal markings in the piece and check which pedals are included and whether the required technique is supported. |
If my piece calls for a specific pedal technique, I want to be able to practise it on the model I choose. Around 20% of consumers prioritise pedal use. |
| Space for the set-up |
Measure the available width and depth, including the stand, seat and pedal. Allow room to play comfortably too. |
I want to use the piano in the guest bedroom without the playing area making the room unusable for other purposes. Around 20% of consumers prioritise placement. |
Pitfalls to avoid when choosing
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Assuming ‘digital piano’ on a product page means a full-size keyboard
A Joybuy product page lists an instrument with 61 keys. That range may not cover passages that go beyond the highest or lowest key.
Check the number of keys and compare the range with your score before choosing a model.
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Assuming an optional pedal unit is included
Yamaha describes the LP-5A unit for the P-145BT as optional. The contents of the package can therefore determine which pedal techniques you can practise straight away.
Compare the pedals you need with what’s included with the exact model.
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Measuring only the depth of the piano casing
The piano’s own measurements don’t tell you how much room the stand, seat and pedals will take up together.
Measure the complete playing set-up before choosing a permanent spot in the guest bedroom.
Relevant brands to consider
Yamaha
According to Yamaha, the P-145BT is a portable piano with 88 weighted GHC keys.
- Yamaha states that the P-145BT is compatible with the optional LP-5A three-pedal unit.
- The unit is optional, so check whether it’s included with the model on offer.
Roland
According to Roland, the FP-10 is a portable piano with 88 PHA-4 Standard keys.
- The Dutch product information says you can play through the built-in speakers or with headphones.
- Roland lists the optional DP-10 pedal for half-pedalling. According to Roland, Bluetooth availability depends on the country of purchase; check this for the Dutch model if the feature is important to you.
Casio
The Privia PX-S1100 is worth comparing if the depth of the piano casing is important to you.
- Casio specifies a casing depth of 232 mm and 88 hammer-action keys.
- This measurement covers the casing only; also allow for the playing space needed with the stand, seat and pedal.
Korg
The B2SP may be a good option if you’re considering a permanent practice set-up with three pedals.
- Korg’s US product information describes the B2SP as coming with a stand and three pedals, with half-pedalling support.
- Check whether the Dutch model has the same package contents and specifications.
Joybuy product picks
The Joybuy picks below are instruments with 61 keys. Check the range of your recital piece carefully: neither product name specifies a full 88-key keyboard.
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MLS-931 Digital Piano, 61 keys
The product name specifies a weighted keyboard and a headphone socket. Check whether the 61-key range suits your recital piece.
The product name also lists 300 sounds, 300 rhythms, an LCD screen, USB-MIDI, speakers and a music stand.
View at Joybuy
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Electronic Keyboard Piano, 61 keys, black
The product name specifies 61 keys. Compare the range with your score before deciding whether the instrument is suitable for your recital piece.
The product name lists a MIDI controller, recording function, speakers, metronome and music stand.
View at Joybuy
Frequently asked questions
Is a 61-key piano enough for your recital piece?
It depends on the range of your score. A product name that includes ‘digital piano’ doesn’t guarantee a full-size keyboard: for example, a Joybuy product page lists 61 keys. Compare the highest and lowest notes in the piece with the range of the exact model.
Are three pedals included as standard?
It varies by model. Yamaha describes the LP-5A unit for the P-145BT as optional, while Korg describes the B2SP as a model with a stand and three pedals. Check what’s included in the package on offer.
What rules apply if your piano playing disturbs the neighbours?
Check the rules that apply to your local area and living situation. The Dutch Government points to municipal APV rules for nuisance caused to neighbours and advises you to agree arrangements with them first. Don’t assume there’s one set time that applies everywhere.
What are your rights if a piano bought online isn’t suitable or develops a fault too soon?
For an online consumer purchase, you generally have up to 14 days after delivery to change your mind, subject to legal exceptions. ACM ConsuWijzer explains that you also have statutory rights against the seller if a product is faulty; the appropriate solution depends on the problem.
How do you get your piano ready to practise in a guest bedroom?
First, check that the complete set-up will fit and that the pedal you need is included with the model or is compatible with it. Then compare the keyboard range with your score. If you want to practise with headphones, check the connection on the exact model too.
