Pianists working on their touch
If you’re practising finger control, dynamics and fast repeated notes, you can compare the keyboard action and touch of models such as the Yamaha P-145 and Roland FP-30X.
Who is this buying guide for?
Players sharing a practice space
If you practise while others are around, check which headphone connections and outputs for sound systems suit your set-up.
Players who move between spaces
If you move or store your piano, weigh up the space it needs and its weight against the stand and pedals required for your set-up.
What should you look for when choosing?
First, compare the touch with the kind of finger exercises you want to do. Then consider listening connections, the space available and any practice features you might need.
| Priority | What should you check? | Who is this most relevant to? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch and control | Compare the keyboard action and touch when playing repeated notes and varying between soft and loud; check the specifications of the exact model. | If I want to work on my finger control and dynamics, I want to compare the touch for myself. Around 36% of consumers prioritise keyboard response. |
| Listening in a shared space | Check how many headphone connections there are and whether you also need a separate output for active speakers. Headphones won’t eliminate the mechanical sound of the keys. | When I practise while others are around, I want to be able to listen privately and, if needed, send sound to a sound system. Around 29% of consumers prioritise private or shared listening. |
| Positioning and moving | Measure the available space and check the weight, included stand and compatibility of any pedals you want. | If I move the piano between rooms or put it away after practising, I consider the space it needs and whether I can set it up suitably. Around 21% of consumers prioritise positioning and moving. |
| Practice features | Check whether it has a metronome or recorder and which connections you need for any other equipment. | When I want to practise my timing or record my playing, I look for features that suit those needs. Around 14% of consumers prioritise practice aids. |
Things to consider when buying
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Overlooking a model suffix
Yamaha lists the P-145 and P-145BT as separate models; Bluetooth audio is specified for the P-145BT. So don’t assume an extra letter makes no difference.
Compare the full model name and the features you’re looking for on the product page and packaging.
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Assuming the stand and pedals are included
The LP-5A pedal unit is optional for the Yamaha P-145. Korg lists the stand and PU-2 three-pedal unit as accessories.
Check what’s included in the bundle and whether the accessories are compatible with the exact piano. A suitable stand or pedal unit may be available separately.
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Confusing a combined output with separate outputs
Korg describes the B2 as having a combined headphone/line output. Roland lists separate connections for headphones and active speakers on the FP-30X.
Check the connections on the exact model against your listening set-up.
Brands to consider
Yamaha
Yamaha describes the P-145 as a compact portable piano with an 88-key GHC keyboard.
- A useful point of comparison for a weighted keyboard in a compact design.
- The LP-5A three-pedal unit is optional, so check what’s included in the bundle you choose. Descriptions of the playing feel come from Yamaha.
Roland
Roland lists a PHA-4 Standard keyboard, two headphone outputs and separate outputs for active speakers on the FP-30X.
- The connections listed offer options for headphones and external amplification.
- The KSC-70 stand and KPD-70 three-pedal unit are optional. Descriptions of the sound and touch come from Roland.
Kawai
Kawai describes the ES120 as a portable piano with a Responsive Hammer Compact keyboard, metronome and recorder.
- The metronome and recorder listed may be useful if you’re looking for timing or recording features.
- Check which accessories are included with the exact model. Kawai provides the description of the piano feel; the product information alone does not confirm availability in the Netherlands.
Korg
The B2 specifications list an 88-key NH keyboard, a metronome and a combined headphone/line output.
- The features listed provide a starting point for practising independently.
- Check whether the combined output suits your listening set-up. The PU-2 three-pedal unit is available separately.
Joybuy products
The Joybuy products shown are digital piano and keyboard models with 61 keys. Compare the features listed with the key range and touch you’re looking for in your finger exercises.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys
For anyone looking for a touch-sensitive, weighted keyboard and a headphone connection.
61 keys; 300 sounds and 300 rhythms; LCD display; USB-MIDI; built-in speakers and headphone connection. The product name also mentions a music rest.
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Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys
For anyone who wants to use a metronome and recording function while practising and listen through headphones.
61 keys; MIDI connection; metronome and recording function; built-in speakers and headphone connection. The product name also mentions a music rest.
Frequently asked questions
Are 88 keys enough on their own when choosing a piano for finger exercises?
No, the number of keys won’t tell you how the touch feels. According to their manufacturers, the Yamaha P-145 and Roland FP-30X each have 88 keys, but their keyboard actions differ. Try the kind of repetition and dynamics you want to practise.
What should I check when setting up and connecting the piano?
Measure the space available and check which accessories, such as a stand or pedal, are included with the exact model. Also consider whether you need a headphone connection, a separate output or both; the models listed have different connections.
Is a manufacturer’s warranty the same as the legal guarantee in the Netherlands?
No. When you buy as a consumer, you’re entitled to a product that works properly; a manufacturer’s or seller’s warranty is in addition to this. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed period for the legal guarantee in the Netherlands: what you can reasonably expect from the product and the circumstances both matter. If there’s a fault, contact the seller.
Which safety marking should I check on an electric digital piano?
The Dutch government states that electrical appliances placed on the market in the EU must carry a CE marking. Check the marking and safety information for the exact model on offer; a product page alone does not confirm that a particular model meets all applicable requirements.