In the world of pianos, certain brands stand out for their superior quality, innovation, and craftsmanship. There are many digital piano brands on the market, but which brands come out on top?
To help you decide, we’ve compiled a list of the nine best digital piano brands which are suited to a range of playing abilities and cover a variety of price points. We’ll also offer piano recommendations to help you choose a specific instrument from your favourite brand.
In a hurry?
Here are our three favourite brands and why we like them:
Yamaha | Many of Yamaha's pianos come with a trial subscription to the flowkey - a great app for beginners. | Check the current price |
Roland | Roland's SuperNATURAL sound modelling technology ensures extremely accurate, realistic sound. | Check the current price |
Gear4music | The touch-sensitive keys featured on Gear4music pianos offer a responsive experience that reacts precisely to your playing intensity and dynamics. | Check the current price |
Why we’ve chosen these brands
These brands have been selected not only due to their reputation for quality but also their high-tech features that make playing the piano incredibly easy. They’re at the top of their game when it comes to offering long-lasting, great-sounding instruments and are household names within the digital piano industry.
With a range of digital pianos to suit various players, there are brands on our list that offer beginner instruments with the same quality and player focus as professional-level ranges.
For budding pianists just starting out, brands such as Yamaha and Roland offer subscriptions or trials of learning-based apps such as Skoove and Flow Key, which can aid you in your learning – a great addition to your first piano!
With more advanced digital pianos from brands like Nord, you can fine-tune your sound and alter various parameters to achieve a more tailored tone. These kinds of brands are perfect for intermediate and professional players.
It’s not only the kinds of pianos that these brands offer, but also their specific features that make them so innovative. For example, Kawai pianos have wooden keys that offer the authentic feel of an acoustic. Their sampled instruments have also been individually recorded for each key and playing intensity, allowing for a rich harmonic character with accurate dynamics.
Yamaha focuses on keybed design, with their unique Grand-S Keyboard offering a realistic grand piano feel. Their Virtual Resonance Modelling technology then replicates the resonance of individual strings on a piano.
No matter what type of pianist you are and what environment you play in, you’re sure to find something that will easily suit you.
The best digital piano brands
1. Casio
Why we like it
- Features AiR technology to provide open-stringed sound
- Pioneers in digital piano technology
- Features user-friendly interfaces
Established in 1946 in Tokyo, Japan by Tadao Kashio, Casio emerged as an innovative electronics company, known primarily for their calculators! However, in 1980 Casio became a game-changer in the music world with the introduction of its first electronic musical instrument, the Casio Tone 201.
Since then, Casio have been setting the stage for digital piano technology, providing pianos known for their reliable durability, affordability, and innovative design.
Casio pianos are appreciated worldwide for their high-quality construction and impressive sound quality. They’re particularly well known for emulating the richness and depth of grand pianos, providing a captivating and immersive musical experience.
Casio’s Privia series, for example, offers a superior sound engine in the form of AiR (Acoustic and intelligent Resonator) technology. This simulates the sound of open strings when the dampers are raised by the pedal to deliver an authentic acoustic piano sound.
The brand caters to a wide range of budgets and skill levels, from beginners to professionals. Beginner pianists can benefit from Casio’s user-friendly interfaces and the integrated Step-Up lesson system in their entry-level models. On the other hand, the Celviano series is suited to professional pianists. These pianos are renowned for their hammer action keybeds which are highly responsive and mimic the touch of a grand piano.
They also offer their Hybrid Piano range which combines traditional craftsmanship with digital technology, a show of their innovation. The models feature a real grand piano hammer mechanism, giving you the feel of an acoustic grand piano while enjoying the benefits of digital technology.
Our recommendation: Casio CDP S110 Digital Piano
2. Kawai
Why we like it
- Responsive III hammer action provides a variation in playing resistance depending on the note
- Innovative Harmonic Imaging technology
- Wooden keys offer a grand piano feel
Established in 1927 by Koichi Kawai, a gifted inventor with a passion for sound and music, Kawai have spent decades constantly pushing the boundaries to perfect the art of the piano. The brand’s dedication to excellence developed from its roots in Hamamatsu, Japan.
Kawai digital pianos are renowned for creating an experience similar to playing a grand piano. This is down to its Responsive Hammer III (RHIII) action, a feature that emulates the heavier touch and the lighter touch found in regular acoustic grand pianos.
An innovation unique to Kawai is their Let-Off simulation, which provides the realistic sensation of keys lifting off, further enriching the grand piano playing experience. And it’s not just feel that the pianos are renowned for, but, of course, sound quality, too.
The brand’s Progressive Harmonic Imaging technology, featured in models like the ES120, uses different-sized grand piano samples for each note.
This technology, in combination with advanced sound technology, accurately reproduces damper resonance and other nuances found in acoustic pianos. The result is an incredibly realistic sound that sets Kawai pianos apart. Another touch of quality with Kawai is the wooden keys, this offers a stunning touch and replicates the feel of an acoustic grand.
Kawai’s digital pianos cater to a diverse range of skill levels. For beginners, models such as the KDP120 come equipped with built-in Alfred lesson songs and Dual and Four Hands modes, which facilitate learning.
If you’re an advanced player, the CN and CA series are a good choice. These offer a host of features, including the Virtual Technician which allows musicians to customise various aspects of the piano to their preference.
Kawai’s Bluetooth MIDI is a key reason why many users return to the brand. This enables you to connect to apps on your smart device, creating a modern, interactive piano experience.
Going beyond sound and usability, Kawai pianos are widely celebrated for their premium construction and elegant design. Each piano is manufactured with high-quality materials, guaranteeing a robust and reliable instrument that is as much a centrepiece in any room as it is a beautiful-sounding instrument.
From the affordable ES120 and KDP120 to the high-end CN and CA series, Kawai cater to a wide range of players. They also strike a balance between tradition and modern playing that keeps them a relevant manufacturer among pianists.
Our recommendation: Kawai CN301 Digital Piano
3.G4M
Why we like it
- Advanced digital signalling processing
- Various settings such as reverb and modulation for a tailored sound
- Ideal for a wide range of players
Launched in 2023, G4M create products aimed at musicians, producers, and engineers. Their instruments are designed to be easy to use whilst still catering to advanced and professional musicians who want gear that’s high-quality and durable.
A unique feature of their digital pianos is the tri-sensor hammer action keybed which provides a realistic and responsive playing experience, whilst the integrated sensors enable expressive playing, capturing every nuance of your performance.
With advanced digital signal processing, G4M digital pianos offer a wide range of effects, including nine types of reverb and modulation.
Our recommendation: G4M HDP-1 Upright Digital Piano
4. Korg
Why we like it
- Fusion of conventional craftsmanship and cutting-edge digital enhancements
- Leader in the realm of digital piano advancements
- Superior build quality paired with cost-effectiveness
Korg are a brand that more advanced or professional players would turn to more so than beginners – depending on what you’re after!
Founded in 1962 by Tsutomu Katoh and Tadashi Osanai in Japan, Korg pianos have earned worldwide recognition for their fusion of time-honoured craftsmanship and avant-garde digital technologies.
In fact, they have a background in mixers, synthesisers, and music production – this gives them some very valuable experience in achieving premium sound quality.
Pianos such as the G1 Air feature a collection of samples from renowned pianos, including those from Germany, Austria, and Japan. Some also have the ability to change the string and damper resonance of an acoustic piano sound. And if you want something that’s extremely responsive to your playing intensity and dynamics, the Korg Liano boasts a KORG light touch LS keybed which offers just that.
The Korg C1, C1 Air, and G1 Air feature an RH3 (Real Weighted Hammer Action) keyboard, giving you the feel of an acoustic piano with all the benefits of innovative technology. This gives you the practicality of digital technology without forfeiting the traditional piano experience.
Better still, the brand also prides itself on its elegant, innovative instruments made from top-tier materials. They’re ideal for studio and stage.
Our recommendation: Korg C1 Air Digital Piano
5. Roland
Why we like it
- Innovation in digital piano technology
- SuperNATURAL sound modelling technology
- Extensive range that caters to all skill levels
Another Japanese brand, Roland were established in 1972 by Ikutaro Kakehashi. Roland pianos are highly acclaimed for their fusion of traditional aesthetics and modern digital technologies, providing state-of-the-art instruments and technologies that ensure an easy and enjoyable playing experience.
The brand are well known for their broad range of stage pianos and digital upright pianos, all of which have unique features, including SuperNATURAL which is a form of advanced sound modeling technology that accurately replicates an acoustic piano.
They also offer a range of keybed actions, such as semi-weighted and hammer-weighted, depending on the response and feel you’re looking for.
But it’s not just pianos that Roland are famed for. The brand is a leading titan in a range of electronic instruments, from digital drum kits to synths. They’re often one of the go-to brands for beginners and professional musicians alike on stage and in the studio.
Our recommendation: Roland FP-30X Digital Piano
6. Yamaha
Why we like it
- Incorporation of digital advancements in traditional pianos
- Offers a range of keybed technologies such as Grand-touch S and Graded hammer compact keyboard
- Cater to all skill levels and budget ranges
Possibly the most well-known on this list, Yamaha produce an extensive range of high-quality instruments that cater to all ability levels. And they’ve managed to gain this reputation through years of experience dating back to 1887 when the brand was founded by Torakusu Yamaha.
Yamaha are often a go-to for beginner players. Their entry-level pianos come with learning resources, such as subscriptions to tutorial apps, and are a great foundation for you to start your playing journey.
On the other hand, professional players opt for Yamaha’s more premium ranges, which cater to both stage and studio environments.
The brand have consistently introduced pioneering technology. One of the most recognisable innovations is the Advanced Wave Memory (AWM) sampling, which uses digital technology to record an instrument’s sound and then applies high-quality digital filter technology to the recorded audio samples. This creates an amazing sound close to that of an acoustic piano.
Some of their highly regarded pianos and series include the Yamaha P145, Clavinova, and the Yamaha AvantGrand. Each of these suits different abilities and price points. More notably, the AvantGrand is a compact hybrid piano with the looks and workings of an acoustic piano and the sound capabilities of a digital.
Similarly, the Clavinova series is arguably one of Yamaha’s flagship brands, with a distinct sound and quality look.
Within this range, there is the Clavinova CLP which is great for all skill levels and players who are looking for a simple piano with good sound quality. It features the unique GrandTouch-S keyboard which plays just like a grand piano, replicating the response of hammers hitting the strings and giving you extra control over your playing.
The Clavinova CSP is designed for beginner players and those who struggle with sight reading. Its clever stream lights indicate which keys to play, helping you learn and build muscle memory. Alongside this, Yamaha pianos are also compatible with the app flowkey. This app is packed with learning resources that help beginner and intermediate players get to grips with their favourite songs.
Like other piano brands on this list, Yamaha are keen to ensure their digital pianos play just as well as their acoustic counterparts. Their Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) keyboard is one example of how they have achieved this. It offers a realistic playability and tone, with the treble keys feeling lighter and the bass feeling heavier.
The brand also employ Virtual Resonance Modelling (VRM) technology to replicate all those complex resonances of the strings on an acoustic piano.
Our recommendation: Yamaha YDP 145 Digital Piano
7. Nord Pianos
Why we like it
- Unmatched sound production quality
- User-friendly interfaces and design
- Highly portable and durable
Established in 1983 in Stockholm, Sweden, Nord are known for their innovation and, most famously, their stage pianos. You’ll probably recognise them for their red finishes!
Nord pianos are particularly celebrated for their powerful sound engines, extensive array of controls and features, and high portability, making them the preferred choice for both stage performances and studio recordings.
These aren’t simple instruments – they’re designed to offer complete musical experiences.
Founded by Hans Nordelius and Mikael Carlsson, the brand has grown from a two-person operation to a globally recognised brand, all while maintaining the essence of the founder’s original vision – to create instruments with superior sound that inspire the musician.
A popular choice among professional players, Nord electric pianos offer all the elements of a synth and organs but with digital piano features such as weighted keys and high-quality sound samples. Their catalogue of pianos include the Nord Stage, Nord Piano, Nord Grand, and Nord Wave.
If you’re just starting out, I’d recommend opting for a brand that offers more beginner-friendly instruments. If you’re an advanced pianist, chances are you’ve already come across Nord. The brand is better suited to players who have an in-depth knowledge of pianos and want the high level of features, sounds, and tone-sculpting that Nord offer.
Our recommendation: Nord Stage 4 88-key Digital Stage Piano
8. Viscount
Why we like it
- Classic Viscount expressive tone
- You can personalise modules within the stage piano range for a tailored sound
- All digital pianos feature a Grand Hammer Action keyboard
Perhaps one of the less commonly heard digital piano brands is Viscount, a brand that’s more known for its electric organs.
In 1969 Marcela Galanti founded Viscount International, which we know as Viscount. The brand initially just produced accordions, but they have gone on to specialise in keyboards, pianos, and electronic organs.
In terms of digital pianos, two of the most notable Viscount series are the Smart and Classico. The Classico series has the authentic aesthetic of real acoustic pianos – both upright and grand.
A standard for all the Viscount pianos is the Grand Hammer Action, which reacts the same way to your playing as an acoustic grand’s keybed would.
Viscount are also known for their innovative approach to piano design. They pioneered Unico, a revolutionary technology that combines physical modelling and sampling to deliver an accurate, immersive sound experience. Their Physis technology is another breakthrough, offering a variety of sound customisation options to musicians.
Thanks to a great set of sounds and modules, these pianos are a great choice for any player looking to get started straight away. We recommend the Viscount Legend ’70s Stage Piano if you’re looking for a piano with precise adjustable parameters. It lets you fine-tune the effects to suit you.
While a lot of their products are focused on intermediate and professional players, their standard digital pianos are perfect for any beginner player wanting a clear and powerful sound.
Our recommendation: Viscount Legend ’70s Artist EX Modular Stage Piano
9. Gear4music
Why we like it
- Exceptional value for the price
- High-quality construction
- Pioneering digital technology
If you want a great entry-level or intermediate instrument that’s both high-quality and affordable, Gear4music are a great option. We offer a range of digital piano types, including digital grands, stage pianos, and upright pianos.
With various action types, such as hammer-weighted and semi-weighted keys, Gear4music pianos offer an authentic piano-playing experience that caters to individual preferences. They’re also equipped with high-definition sampling technology that accurately recreates the rich, resonant tones of traditional acoustic pianos.
From beginner-friendly models like the SDP-2 to professional-grade digital pianos like the DP-10X, we offer something for everyone.
These pianos come with various useful features, such as touch-sensitive keys with weighted action. multiple instrument voices, and built-in practice tools, that further enhance the learning and playing experience.
Despite their many features and high-quality construction, the affordable pricing of Gear4music pianos makes them an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Our recommendation: SDP-3 Stage Piano by Gear4music
What to look for in a digital piano
If you’re looking to buy a digital piano, there are a few things to consider. Size, for instance, is probably the first thing you think of. Do you have room for a digital piano? Will it be in your living room or a dedicated studio? There are plenty of brands out there that cater to players who are tight on space, and there are also plenty that offer digital grand pianos if you have space in abundance!
Another critical feature to look out for is the key action or the mechanism that mimics the response of an acoustic piano. Look for models that offer a realistic feel to enhance your playing experience and technique.
The most desirable key actions are often described as “fully-weighted” or “hammer action”, which attempt to replicate the heavier feel of acoustic piano keys, but this is all a matter of personal preference, so it’s a good idea to try the keyboard action before making a decision.
Connectivity is another important feature of a digital piano. Many digital pianos come with USB and MIDI ports for connection to computers and other digital devices. These connections can open up a world of possibilities, such as recording your performances or accessing online learning tools. If you are using your piano in the studio to record, make sure you also have all the right software to do so.
Sound quality is, of course, paramount. A good digital piano should produce a rich and authentic sound that is as close as possible to an acoustic piano. Many top-tier pianos use complex algorithms and carefully placed, good-quality speakers to carefully recreate the sound of a grand piano, including the subtle nuances and overtones.
As we’ve discussed in this article, the reputation of the brand is also something to keep in mind. Established brands such as Yamaha, Roland, and Kawai are known for their vast experience and history with digital pianos, whilst some newer brands, such as G4M, are known for catering to the modern musician.
Lastly, consider your budget. Prices for digital pianos can vary widely, ranging from affordable options to high-end models. It’s crucial to find a balance between your budget and the features you desire. Remember, investing in a good-quality piano is a long-term commitment, so it’s worth spending a little extra if it means getting a piano that meets your needs and will last for years.
FAQs
Which is the best brand for digital pianos?
Brands such as Roland and Kawai are considered to be the best brands for digital pianos, as their innovative, great-sounding instruments consistently deliver exceptional performance. However, the best brand for you will depend on your needs and preferences. There are plenty of digital piano brands out there to choose from!
Which digital piano is closest to a real piano?
Out of the pianos on our list, the Kawai CN301 is the most like an acoustic piano. It uses Kawai’s Responsive Hammer III action which replicates the heavier feel of bass notes and the lighter feel of the treble in an acoustic piano. The piano also has a triple-sensor key-detection system for extremely precise responsiveness and repetition speed, giving you greater expression in your playing.
How long do digital pianos last?
Digital pianos generally have a long lifespan, often lasting for several decades. Quality and longevity depend largely on the brand, the model, and how well the piano is maintained. Investing in reputable brands usually ensures a piano that will stand the test of time.
Wrapping up
So, we’ve taken a comprehensive look at the best digital piano brands, discussing the key factors to consider when making your choice. I hope you’ve found the right brand for you!
Looking for more information on digital pianos? Check out our favourite digital pianos under £1000. If you have a piano already and want to be able to listen and monitor your playing clearly, we’ve also compiled the best headphones for digital pianos.
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