Sonatina student with limited space
You want to practise touch and phrasing on a piano keyboard, but don’t have room for a large, permanent setup. Compare the keyboard type and range with your learning goals.
Who is this guide for?
Player with a shallow practice space
If floor depth is your main constraint, compare the dimensions of portable models. Remember to allow space for the stand and your stool, too.
Home player who doesn’t want to disturb others
You want to practise privately and check which pedal and stand components come with the model. Casio lists a headphone socket for the CDP-S110BK; check the connections on the model you’re considering.
What should you look for?
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch and keyboard range | Compare the keyboard type and range with your score. Yamaha specifies 88 GHC keys for the P-145BT; Roland lists 88 PHA-4 keys for the FP-40. | I want to practise dynamics and articulation on a piano keyboard, with a range that suits my music. Around 36% of consumers put piano technique first. |
| Space for the setup | Measure the instrument, stand and stool together. Yamaha lists the P-145BT as 1.326 mm wide and 268 mm deep without a music rest; Roland gives different dimensions for the FP-40 with the specified stand and pedal unit. | I have limited floor space and want to sit and use the pedal without the setup feeling cramped. Around 29% of consumers put placement first. |
| Practising with headphones | Check that the exact model has a headphone socket. Allow for the cable, too, and remember that headphones won’t eliminate the sound of the keys. | I want to practise without sound coming from the speakers into the room. Around 21% of consumers make private practice their top priority. |
| Pedal and complete setup | Check what’s included with each version and which pedal is compatible with the stand. Casio lists an SP-3 with the CDP-S110BK; Yamaha lists the three-pedal LP-5A as an option for the P-145BT. | I want to know whether the pedal setup suits my score and lessons, without overlooking any extra components. Around 14% of consumers give the complete pedal setup top priority. |
Common buying pitfalls
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Measuring only the depth of the piano
The stated dimensions of the instrument don’t tell you how much room the complete playing setup will need. Roland gives different dimensions for the FP-40 itself and for the setup with its stand and pedal unit.
Measure the space with the intended stand, stool and pedal in place before choosing a model.
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Assuming a keyboard that looks like a piano has piano-style keys
For piano technique, the keyboard type and range are important selection criteria; portability alone doesn’t tell you whether they’re suitable.
Check the specifications for the exact version and compare the range with your score. Try the touch for yourself if possible.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
The portable P series may suit you if you’re looking for weighted keys without a cabinet-style body. Yamaha specifies 88 GHC keys and a width of 1.326 mm for the P-145BT; it is 268 mm deep without a music rest.
- The LP-5A three-pedal unit is compatible with the P-145BT.
- Yamaha lists the LP-5A as optional. The stated depth doesn’t include the complete playing setup.
Roland
The FP range includes portable digital pianos such as the FP-10 and FP-40. Roland specifies 88 PHA-4 keys for both models.
- The FP-40 manual lists a DP-2 pedal switch as included.
- The stand and pedal unit for the FP-40 are optional. Manufacturer descriptions of the key action aren’t a substitute for an independent playing test.
Casio
The CDP-S110BK is a portable model to consider if depth is particularly limited. Casio specifies a cabinet depth of 232 mm.
- Casio lists a headphone output and an SP-3 sustain pedal as included.
- The cabinet dimensions don’t tell you how much room the complete setup will need. You’ll need to decide for yourself whether the key action suits you.
Joybuy products
This selection includes 61-key digital pianos. Before choosing a model, compare the range required for your sonatina and lessons with the specifications.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys, black
Could be worth considering if you’re looking for a compact instrument; check that 61 keys are enough for your sonatina and learning goals.
The product name lists a weighted keyboard and music rest.
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Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys, black
An option to compare if you’re looking for a 61-key model; check the range against your score before deciding.
The product name lists a MIDI controller, recording function and music rest.
Frequently asked questions
Is a 61-key keyboard suitable for your sonatina?
It depends on the range required by your score and lessons. Check the notes in the music and, if needed, discuss the range with your teacher before choosing a 61-key model.
How do you measure a small practice space accurately?
Measure the instrument with the intended stand, and leave extra room for your stool, feet, pedal and sheet music. Don’t just measure the depth of the piano cabinet: Roland gives different dimensions for the FP-40 itself and for the setup with its stand and pedal unit.
Do you need three pedals for a sonatina?
Not necessarily. Check the directions in your score and discuss pedal technique with your teacher. What’s included varies by version: Casio lists an SP-3 with the CDP-S110BK, while Yamaha lists the three-pedal LP-5A as an option for the P-145BT.
Can you practise with headphones without anyone else hearing?
Headphones can prevent others in the room from hearing sound from the speakers, but they won’t eliminate the mechanical sound of the keys. Check that the exact model has a headphone socket, too.
Do exam requirements automatically apply to home practice?
No. The requirements of an exam board don’t automatically apply to ordinary home practice. If you’re taking a particular exam, check the relevant syllabus. The ABRSM piano syllabus 2025–2026 covers ABRSM piano exams; it isn’t a general buying rule for the Netherlands.