Technique-focused player
You practise scales regularly and want to assess the key action and tempo. Try the keyboards for yourself and check whether the instrument has a metronome.
Who is this guide for?
Player living with others
You want to be able to play without using the speakers. Check for a headphone socket and bear in mind any agreements about noise at home.
User of a shared guest room
The room still needs to work as a guest room, so measure the space for the stand and seat as well as the piano.
What should you look for?
First, compare the key action when playing scales repeatedly. Then consider using headphones, how the complete setup will fit in the room and which features will support your practice routine.
| What to consider | What to look for | Who is this most relevant for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key action | Play the same minor scale slowly and quickly on the exact model, and compare how it responds. | When I repeat scales, I want to assess the key action and dynamics properly. Around 36% of consumers would make key action their top purchasing priority. |
| Practising with headphones | Check the socket, plug size and what happens to the speakers when you connect headphones. | When I want to practise at home without using the speakers, I want to know whether my headphones will connect. Around 29% of consumers would make quiet practice their main priority. |
| Space in the guest room | Measure the available width and depth, including the stand and seat, and check the dimensions of the version you’re considering. | If the room also needs to be available for guests, I want to make sure the complete setup will fit. Around 21% of consumers would put space requirements at the top of their list. |
| Practice aids | Check how to set the metronome and whether tempo and recording functions work on the instrument itself or through another device. | If I want to practise my tempo or listen back to my playing, I want features that support this. Around 14% of consumers would choose practice aids as their main purchasing priority. |
Buying points not to miss
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Measuring only the piano
The dimensions of the piano casing don’t tell you how much room the complete setup will take up in the guest room.
Before choosing, measure the space needed for the piano, stand and seat together.
You may need to buy a suitable stand and seat.
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Assuming a portable model comes with three pedals
The Yamaha LP-5A console and Roland KPD-70 are model-specific accessories. Don’t assume they’re included with the piano.
Check what’s included in the specific offer and whether the pedal unit is compatible with the exact model.
You may need to buy a compatible pedal unit separately.
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Assuming headphones make practice inaudible or safe
Headphones don’t automatically prevent all sounds from being heard around the house. The WHO points out that sound levels, listening duration and how often you’re exposed to loud sounds all affect the risk to your hearing.
If needed, agree on practice times and start with the headphone volume turned down low.
Brands to compare
Yamaha
Yamaha describes the P-145 as a portable entry-level model for piano-focused playing in a limited space.
- Yamaha specifies that the P-145 has an 88-key GHC keyboard with weighted keys.
- The compatible LP-5A console with three pedals is optional. The keyboard specification doesn’t tell you which key action will feel comfortable to you.
Roland
The FP-30X is a portable piano you can compare with others for its keyboard response and headphone use, among other things.
- Roland specifies an 88-key PHA-4 Standard keyboard and two headphone outputs.
- The KPD-70 is an optional accessory. Compare the exact configurations; manufacturer descriptions aren’t comparative tests.
Casio
The CDP-S110BK is worth considering if the available depth in your guest room is a priority.
- Casio lists a depth of 232 mm, a PHONES/OUTPUT socket and an included SP-3 pedal.
- Compact dimensions don’t tell you whether the playing feel will suit you. Also check that you’re comfortable with the controls, including those operated through the app.
Korg
The B2 offers a portable piano setup with a metronome for tempo practice.
- Korg specifies 88 NH keys, a metronome and a combined headphone/line-out socket.
- According to Korg, half-pedal support requires the separately available PU-2.
Kawai
The ES120 is a portable model to compare if you’re looking for a metronome, recording and pedal options.
- Kawai lists a Responsive Hammer Compact keyboard, metronome and recorder.
- Several compatible pedal options are available, so check which ones come with the version you choose. Kawai’s comments on sound quality are manufacturer claims.
Joybuy product picks
These Joybuy picks are 61-key instruments. When practising, consider the size of the keyboard and check which features and connections suit the way you want to use it.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
The weighted keyboard is worth considering if you want to compare the key action when playing scales.
61 keys; metronome and headphone socket.
The description also mentions USB-MIDI and recording and playback functions.
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Electronic keyboard, 61 keys, black
The metronome and headphone port listed may come in handy if you want to practise in time without using the speakers.
61 keys; the description mentions a metronome, headphone port, recording and playback functions, and USB-MIDI.
A music stand is mentioned in the description; check what’s included in the specific offer.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a metronome to practise minor scales?
No, a metronome isn’t essential, but it can help you keep a steady practice tempo. Korg lists tempo and time signature settings for the B2, while Kawai lists an adjustable metronome for the ES120. See which controls you find easiest to use.
What should I consider when putting a piano in a guest room?
Measure the complete setup, including the seat and any stand, before choosing. Also check which stand and pedals are compatible with the exact model. Yamaha, for example, lists the LP-5A console as an optional extra.
Are the stand, pedal and headphones included?
It varies by model and offer. Casio lists an SP-3 pedal included with the CDP-S110BK, while Yamaha lists the LP-5A console as an optional extra. Check what’s included in the specific offer before choosing your complete setup.
What are my rights when buying online in the Netherlands?
For many distance purchases from a business, consumers have a 14-day cooling-off period, although exceptions apply. The Dutch Government also states that the seller must disclose additional costs, such as delivery or installation fees. Check the terms and conditions that apply to your specific purchase.
How can I practise responsibly with headphones?
Start with the volume turned down low. The World Health Organization (WHO) points out that sound levels, listening duration and how often you’re exposed to loud sounds all affect the risk of hearing damage. A headphone socket alone doesn’t guarantee a safe listening volume.