First, choose a keyboard that lets you practise both soft and forceful playing, then check the pedal and the complete setup. A stage piano makes most sense if you also want to move the instrument around or use its performance features; for practising in one small room, a portable digital piano may offer a different setup. This comparison is based on manufacturers’ specifications, not independent play-testing.
Mostly practises at home and wants a setup that fits in a small room, with a touch response that allows them to practise both soft and forceful passages. Relevant model features are described by Yamaha, Kawai and Casio.
A headphone socket and a suitable listening setup are useful; a piano without built-in speakers needs an external audio system. Korg describes the D1 as having no speakers, while Kawai provides guidance for the ES120 in its user manual.
May want to take the instrument along, so portability and connections are worth considering. Kawai describes the ES120 as suitable for home, the practice room and on the go; Roland describes the RD-08 as a stage piano.
Start with a touch response that feels right for your sonatina, then check that the piano, pedal and audio setup will fit in your practice space.
| What to consider | What should you check? | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Touch response and dynamics | Play the same soft and fast passage on each piano you’re considering, and compare the type of weighted keyboard. Yamaha lists 88 GHC keys for the P-145; Korg lists 88 RH3 keys and five touch settings for the D1. Manufacturers’ terms are no substitute for trying the instrument yourself. | If I want to practise the difference between soft and forceful passages, touch response is my top priority. Around 36% of consumers in this choice breakdown put touch response first. |
| Space and quiet practice | Measure the space, allowing room for the music rest and playing, and check whether speakers are included. Yamaha lists the P-145’s depth as 268 mm without the music rest; Korg lists the D1’s depth as 263 mm and states that it has no built-in speakers. | If I practise in a small room and don’t want to disturb others, the complete setup needs to fit and quiet listening needs to be possible. Around 29% of consumers in this choice breakdown prioritise space and quiet practice. |
| Pedal and accessories | Check which pedals and accessories are included with the version on offer. Yamaha states that the LP-5A three-pedal unit for the P-145 is optional; Korg states that a damper pedal is included with the D1 and that the DS-1H is available separately. | If I want to practise with a pedal, I want to know in advance what else I’ll need for my setup. Around 21% of consumers in this choice breakdown prioritise the pedal and a complete practice setup. |
| Moving it and connections | Compare the stated portability and connections with how you plan to use the piano. Roland describes the RD-08 as having a weighted 88-key keyboard and built-in stereo speakers; Kawai describes the ES120 as suitable for use at home, in the practice room and on the go. | If I want to rehearse in other places too, portability and suitable connections matter. Around 14% of consumers in this choice breakdown prioritise portability and versatility. |
According to Korg, the D1 has no built-in speakers. You’ll therefore need external audio equipment to hear the piano unless you use headphones.
Decide in advance whether you’ll practise with headphones or use external audio equipment. Bear in mind the space and equipment this will require.
Headphones or external audio equipment may need to be part of your setup.
Yamaha lists the LP-5A three-pedal unit for the P-145 as optional. Korg says a damper pedal is included with the D1, but the DS-1H is available separately.
Compare what’s included with the exact version on offer, and check that the pedal suits the way you want to practise.
Depending on your chosen setup, you may need a suitable stand or an additional pedal.
The stated depth of some models changes when the music rest is in place. You’ll also need space for the bench and pedals, and access to the connections.
Measure the complete setup where you plan to practise, including room for the bench and pedals.
The RD-08 is designed for anyone looking for a stage piano to practise on and take to rehearsals.
The D1 is a slim stage piano for anyone who practises with headphones or already has external audio equipment.
The ES120 is a portable digital piano for a regular practice spot that you sometimes need to move.
The P-145 is a compact portable digital piano aimed, among others, at beginner pianists.
The PX-S1100BK may be worth considering if the depth of the casing is a key constraint.
Not necessarily: compare the touch response, pedal and complete practice setup first. A stage piano makes most sense if you’ll use its performance or portability features; this is based on the stated model features, not a comparative play-test.
That depends on the model. According to Roland, the RD-08 has built-in stereo speakers; the Korg D1 does not, so you’ll need headphones or external audio equipment if you want to hear the piano as you play.
Measure the space, allowing for the music rest and playing area, and use the power supply intended for the version in question. In the ES120 manual, Kawai warns that if liquid is spilt or the instrument becomes abnormally hot, among other things, you should stop using it and unplug it.
For online purchases from a professional seller in the EU, you generally have 14 days from receipt to change your mind, subject to exceptions and any return costs notified in advance. According to the Dutch government, there is no fixed term for the statutory guarantee in the Netherlands; if a product is faulty, contact the seller.
Products placed on the EU market must meet the applicable product safety requirements; CE marking is also required for many consumer products. The Dutch government stresses that you should check which requirements apply to the product. Check the conformity information for the exact version being offered.
