Learning a piano part
You mainly want to practise the notes, timing and dynamics of the tune. So compare the keyboard action and practice features before choosing extra stage sounds.
Who is this suitable for?
Practising in a shared space
You want to switch between playing aloud and practising with headphones. Check that the exact model offers both options.
Taking the instrument between rooms
You move the instrument regularly and want to weigh its portability against the keyboard action you prefer and the power supply needed for the speakers.
What should you look for when choosing?
Digital piano designed for piano playing
A good fit if: you mainly practise the piano part and focus on touch. Yamaha lists 88 GHC keys for the P-225; the Kawai ES120 is another portable, piano-focused example.
Consider: stage controls and switching between sounds may not be your main priorities. Try the keyboard if its touch is important to you.
Stage piano with weighted keys
A good fit if: you also want to use the same instrument for rehearsals. Roland says the RD-08 has an 88-key PHA-4 keyboard, built-in stereo speakers and stage features.
Consider: check the weight, connections and space where you’ll be playing. Roland’s claims about playing feel and room-filling sound are manufacturer claims.
Stage keyboard for switching between sounds
A good fit if: you want to try out parts other than the piano melody. Yamaha specifies 88 GHS keys, sound selection, line outputs, a headphone socket and built-in speakers for the CK88.
Consider: extra controls are most useful if you’ll actually use them. Check which accessories are included with the model you choose.
Lightweight, semi-weighted stage keyboard
A good fit if: you move the instrument often and portability matters more to you than a hammer action. Studiologic lists semi-weighted keys and a weight of 7,1 kg for the Numa Compact SE.
Consider: semi-weighted keys feel different from the hammer actions mentioned above. Studiologic says the internal speakers won’t work when the instrument is powered by USB alone.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard action and pedal | Compare the exact type of keyboard action and check for a connection for the sustain pedal you want to use. If possible, try the touch for yourself. | If I’m mainly practising notes and dynamics, I want a keyboard that suits the way I play piano. Around 33% of consumers prioritise touch and piano practice. |
| Practising quietly and playing aloud | Check the headphone socket, built-in speakers and required power supply. Yamaha lists a 6,3 mm headphone socket for the CK88; Studiologic says the Numa Compact SE speakers won’t work on USB power alone. | In a shared music room, I want to be able to practise privately and play with others at other times. Around 27% of consumers prioritise this combination of quiet and shared use. |
| Transport and setup | Compare the stated instrument weight and check that the stand, bag, adapter and pedal you need will suit your setup. Studiologic lists the Numa Compact SE at 7,1 kg, Yamaha lists the P-225 at 11,5 kg and Kawai lists the ES120 at 12,5 kg. | If I take the instrument between rooms, I want to weigh its portability against the keyboard action and setup I prefer. Around 20% of consumers prioritise portability. |
| Other sounds and controls | Check whether the model has the sounds and hands-on controls you want. Yamaha lists 363 voices and Live Set sounds for the CK88; Studiologic lists layers and splits for the Numa Compact SE. | If I also want to work on other parts of the arrangement, extra sounds can come in handy. Around 20% of consumers prioritise switching sounds for this purpose. |
Things to watch out for when buying
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‘88 keys’ doesn’t mean the same playing feel
The models mentioned have different types of keyboard action, including weighted hammer action, GHC or GHS keys, and semi-weighted keys. The number of keys alone won’t tell you how the touch will feel.
Compare the specifications for the exact model and, if possible, try the keyboard before buying.
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Built-in speakers don’t always work with every power supply
Studiologic says the internal speakers in the Numa Compact SE won’t work when the instrument is powered by USB alone.
Check the power requirements and which adapter comes with the exact model.
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An extended warranty package doesn’t replace your statutory rights
According to the Dutch government, statutory rights remain in place alongside a manufacturer’s or retailer’s guarantee. If there’s a fault, contact the retailer.
Check what specific service an additional package provides and who to contact if there’s a problem.
Brands to consider
Roland
The RD-08 is an example for anyone looking to combine piano practice with controls for rehearsals.
- Roland specifies 88 weighted PHA-4 keys and built-in stereo speakers for this model.
- Roland’s claims about playing feel and filling a room with sound are manufacturer claims, not independent measurements.
Yamaha
The P-225 is a portable model designed for piano playing; the CK88 is a stage keyboard for anyone looking for more control over sounds.
- Yamaha specifies 88 keys for both models: GHC for the P-225 and GHS for the CK88. The CK88 has line outputs and built-in speakers.
- Check which accessories are included with each model.
Studiologic
The Numa Compact SE could be a good fit if you move your instrument often and want semi-weighted keys.
- Studiologic lists 88 semi-weighted keys, built-in speakers and a weight of 7,1 kg.
- According to the manufacturer, the speakers won’t work when the instrument is powered by USB alone.
Kawai
The ES120 is a portable, piano-focused option to compare for practice and rehearsals.
- Kawai lists a Responsive Hammer Compact keyboard, USB-MIDI, Bluetooth audio and a weight of 12,5 kg for the ES120.
- Kawai describes the model as having been introduced in 2022; don’t call it the latest model without more recent information.
Joybuy products
These product choices are intended for practising a tune, with options for playing privately or aloud.
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Electronic keyboard piano, 61 keys, MIDI and recording function
The practice features listed may be useful if you want to learn a tune and switch between practising privately and playing aloud.
61 keys; MIDI and recording function. The product description also mentions a metronome, headphone socket, built-in speakers and music stand.
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MLS-931 digital piano, 61 keys
This model could suit you if you’re looking for a digital piano to practise a tune on and want to try out the sounds and rhythms listed.
61 keys; the product title lists a weighted keyboard, 300 sounds, 300 rhythms and USB-MIDI. The product information also mentions a metronome, speakers and a headphone socket.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a stage piano to learn a single tune?
No, not necessarily. If the piano part is your main focus, you could also compare a portable digital piano such as the Yamaha P-225. A stage instrument is most relevant if you want to use its extra sounds or rehearsal controls. If possible, try the keyboard for yourself.
Why might a Numa Compact SE’s speakers not work when powered by USB?
Studiologic says the internal speakers won’t work when the Numa Compact SE is powered by USB alone. Check the manual and use the supplied power adapter if you want to use the built-in speakers.
What can you do in the Netherlands if a piano you’ve bought turns out to be faulty?
Contact the retailer. According to the Dutch government, the Netherlands has no fixed statutory guarantee period; what you can reasonably expect from the product is what matters. If a product is faulty, you may be entitled to a free repair or replacement. This applies to consumer purchases and not necessarily to purchases made by an educational institution.
Which rules apply when buying an electronic keyboard instrument online?
For online purchases from a business, the Dutch government says you’ll generally have 14 days to change your mind; check the terms and exceptions. CE marking is compulsory for product groups covered by the relevant EU rules. Don’t assume that a product’s stage piano category alone determines which rules apply to a specific model or adapter.