Start with a keyboard that feels comfortable when you repeatedly change chords. Then decide whether you’ll mainly practise with headphones, record via a computer or want to hear the sound without extra equipment. A model with built-in speakers can be used on its own, while one without speakers needs suitable headphones or external audio equipment. Also check the exact connections, included accessories and dimensions of the model.
You want to practise changing chords repeatedly, so first consider whether the key action suits you before comparing extra sounds or performance controls. Yamaha and Roland publish details of the key actions and specifications for their models; Muziekschool.nl recommends trying instruments for yourself.
You share your living space and want to be able to practise with headphones. Check the connection and listen for yourself to see how your chosen model sounds with your headphones. Muziekschool.nl recommends listening to pianos both through headphones and through their speakers.
You want to use your playing with a computer or existing audio equipment. So distinguish between USB audio/MIDI, separate audio outputs and MIDI IN/OUT: these connections don’t all serve the same purpose.
First, compare the key action by playing the same chord change on different models. Then consider headphone and speaker use, studio connections and the space you have available.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this most important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Key action when changing chords | Play the same chord change on different models and pay attention to how the keys respond when you repeat it. Yamaha specifies 88 weighted GHC keys for the P-225; Roland specifies a PHA-4 Standard keyboard for the FP-30X. Try them out to see which action feels comfortable. | If I practise the same changes often, I mainly want to know how the keyboard responds under my fingers. Around 36% of consumers put key action first. |
| Quiet practice and standalone sound | Check the number of headphone sockets and whether the model has built-in speakers. Also test the sound through your own headphones; if you’re not using headphones, a model without speakers needs external audio equipment. | When I want to practise quietly at home, I need to be able to connect headphones and enjoy the sound. Built-in speakers are useful when I want to play without extra equipment. Around 29% of consumers prioritise quiet practice. |
| Connecting to a home studio | Decide whether you want to record MIDI performance data, audible audio or both, then check that the ports are compatible with your equipment. Roland lists USB audio/MIDI for the FP-30X; Kawai lists USB-MIDI and separate stereo line outs for the ES120. Korg lists line outs and MIDI IN/OUT for the D1. | If I want to use my chords with a computer or recording equipment, I first check which signals and inputs my setup needs. Around 21% of consumers prioritise studio connections. |
| Space and complete setup | Measure your space and compare it with the dimensions of the exact model. Casio lists a depth of 232 mm for the PX-S1100BK; Yamaha gives the P-225’s dimensions as 1.326 mm wide and 272 mm deep without a music rest. Check separately whether a stand or pedal is included in the offer. | If I have limited space, I want to know in advance whether the piano and necessary accessories will fit. Around 14% of consumers put placement and a complete setup first. |
MIDI performance data and an audible audio signal aren’t the same thing. The models reviewed have different combinations of connections, so having MIDI doesn’t automatically mean you can record the piano’s audio through that connection.
Make a note of whether you want to capture performance data, sound or both, then compare the ports on the exact model with your computer and recording equipment.
If the outputs aren’t compatible with your setup, you may need extra connection equipment or a suitable cable.
Korg describes the D1 as having no built-in speakers. If you want to play without headphones, you’ll therefore need external audio equipment with this model.
Check in advance how you want to listen to the instrument and whether your chosen piano has built-in speakers.
With a model that has no speakers, you’ll need suitable headphones or external audio equipment to hear the sound.
Manufacturers list stands or pedal upgrades as accessories for various models. That doesn’t mean they’re included as standard with every version or offer.
Compare what’s included in the specific offer with the setup you want to practise with.
Buying a separate stand or pedal unit can increase the total cost.
The P Series is worth considering if you’re looking for a compact digital piano for practising at home.
The FP-30X is a portable piano for practising at home and connecting to a computer.
The ES120 combines portable home use with connections that could be useful in a studio setup.
The Privia PX-S1100BK may be worth considering if your workspace has limited depth.
The D1 suits a setup that already includes headphones or external audio equipment.
Play the same chord change on both instruments and pay attention to how the keys respond when you repeat it. Muziekschool.nl recommends trying pianos in person; the name of a keyboard action won’t tell you by itself which model will feel comfortable to play.
Not through built-in speakers if the model doesn’t have any. Korg describes the D1 as having no built-in speakers and lists line outs; use suitable headphones or external audio equipment with this model.
First decide whether you want to record MIDI performance data, audible audio or both. Roland lists USB audio/MIDI for the FP-30X; Kawai lists USB-MIDI and separate line outs for the ES120. Then check which cables and inputs your own equipment needs.
For a standard online product purchase, ACM ConsuWijzer says you generally have a statutory 14-day cooling-off period after the product has been delivered; exceptions may apply. If a product breaks during normal use sooner than you could reasonably expect, ACM ConsuWijzer says the seller must put things right, for example by repairing or replacing it, or refunding you. There isn’t one fixed statutory warranty period for every piano.
The Dutch government states that electronic devices placed on the market in the EU must carry a CE marking. Check the marking and the product and power-supply information for the exact version; information about a model alone doesn’t confirm that a specific offer meets all applicable requirements.
