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Digital pianos reviews and buying guide UK

Selecting the ideal digital piano or keyboard can be a challenging task, more so than most people initially think. Sorting through hundreds of options can become a daunting task. In this digital piano review, our team through meticulous analysis and testing has compared various characteristics including, budget, sound, key sensitivity, features, build quality, and price. Considering all these factors is crucial in shaping an informed viewpoint on a particular model.

Budget

Digital pianos at the high-end range can be extremely pricey and are geared toward either experienced musicians or those where budget is no issue. Most of the models we tested and gave a rating for are below £500 and offer excellent value for money.

Key Sensitivity

As musicians ourselves we place key sensitivity as a high priority when choosing any piano. A model could have all the features in the world but if it does not have a good feel for the player, they are not likely to feel comfortable playing.

Sound

Sound quality is one of our top scoring criteria when grading a digital keyboard piano. We looked for how realistic and authentic each digital piano sounded and performed as well as the level of control and variety of sounds available for each.

Features

Although we have features as a scoring mechanism for our reviews it will be less important for beginners just starting out. A more experienced or ambitious user may want specific features like recording included.

How did we choose our list of the top 5 Keyboard Pianos?

The below choices were selected based on what we know would be suitable options for the beginner to intermediate user. They needed to pass our tests on playability, affordability and also quality. Each piano is graded on our scoring system so that you can decide what elements are most important to you. The truth is that the below 5 digital pianos are all great options in their own right and if you are just starting out or moving on from a starter model you will likely find one of our recommended models is suitable for you. 

DP-6 Digital Piano by Gear4music plus – BEST TRADITIONAL STYLE 

Gear4music DP-6 Digital Upright Piano 88 Weighted KeysAs far as having access to a quality piano goes, this DP-6 Digital Piano by Gear4Music is one of the best options in this price range. It’s an excellent value product that offers 88 weighted keys and 64 voice polyphony features, giving it plenty of variance and style to make the most of.

It provides excellent power compared to other pianos in this price range. The headphones that come with it, as well, the HP-170 set, are brilliant. Many found that with the stool included you could just sit down and enjoy some musical messing around within minutes of getting this piano arriving!

Scores

PRICE

4/5

SOUND

4.5/5

KEY SENSITIVITY

4/5

FEATURES

4.5/5

BUILD QUALITY

4.5/5

Summary: In my opinion this is one of the best digital pianos you can buy for under £500. It is feature packed to suit beginners and advanced players alike. The only downside is a pedal that could be better quality but it is easily replaced with a more robust model.

You have to be hugely appreciative of the overall design and style of the piano and with the weighted hammer action keyboard style you will never find it hard to use or off-putting in any capacity. This goes a lot further than your typical piano would in a digital sense. It makes sure that you have everything you need to start jamming away within hours of arrival.

It’s got that beautiful and harmonious tone of a real acoustic piano, without any of the usual problems related to tuning and/or maintenance. For those who want to pick up a quality piece of piano hardware that is easy to use, simple to set up and perfect at delivering when asked, then this might just be the best digital piano out there in this price range!

PROS

  • Real top quality authentic sounds rarely seen at this price.
  • Has an abundance of extra features that we loved to explore.
  • Excellent build quality.
  • It has the feeling of a much more expensive piano.

CONS

  • We found the pedal a bit flimsy and could see people replacing it for a more sturdy option.
  • Headphones are not of highest quality This would only matter If you choose the headphone bundle. I would recommend buying headphones separately.

Gear4music DP-6 Digital Upright Piano 88 Weighted Keys with Bench
  • Experience the feeling of a grand piano: Full size 88 note weighted action keyboard, 16 stereo voices, 64…
  • Packed with training features: the piano includes metronome, transpose, demo songs, stereo recording and…
  • Ready for your daily practice: The DP-6 digital piano features 2 x 10W built-in speakers and a headphone…

Roland FP-10 88-Note Digital Keyboard Piano- BEST MID RANGE

Roland FP-10 88-Note Compact

Play anywhere with ease- The Roland FP-10 is always ready to play, with a reassuringly authentic feel from the 88-note PHA-4 Standard keyboard. It’s perfect for home use, whether you’re practicing techniques or giving performances.

The Roland FP-10 digital piano is a popular choice among beginners and experienced musicians alike. It has a range of features that make it a great choice for those looking for an entry-level instrument with professional-level performance. In this review, we’ll examine the pros and cons of the Roland FP-10 to help you decide if it’s the right piano for you.

Sound and Feel – When it comes to sound and feel, the Roland FP-10 does not disappoint. It features 88 weighted keys that emulate the feel of an acoustic piano, making it comfortable to play even for long periods of time. It also comes with 10 different sounds, including acoustic pianos, electric pianos, organs, and strings. Each sound has been sampled from some of the finest instruments in the world so you can expect professional quality sound with each keystroke.

Features – The FP-10 also comes with a wide range of features that make it easy to customize your experience. For example, there are dual headphone jacks so two people can listen at once without disturbing others nearby. Additionally, there is an onboard metronome to help keep your timing on point and built-in speakers so you can hear your playing without having to plug in headphones or speakers.

Scores

PRICE

4.5/5

SOUND

4.5/5

KEY SENSITIVITY

4/5

FEATURES

4/5

BUILD QUALITY

4.5/5

Summary:The Roland FP-10 digital piano is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate players who are looking for an instrument that provides professional quality sound and feel at an affordable price point. With its weighty keys and range of features like dual headphone jacks and Bluetooth connectivity, this piano is sure to meet all your needs as a musician–whether you’re just starting out or have been playing for years! If you’re looking for a digital piano that will provide years of reliable performance in any setting, you will not go wrong with this model.

Connectivity – On top of all these features, the Roland FP-10 also offers excellent connectivity options. You can connect your laptop or mobile device via USB or Bluetooth so you can record or control your music from anywhere in the room. This makes it ideal for recording or live performances where you need to move around freely while still controlling your sound from a distance.

Supernatural piano tones – The Roland FP-10 features Roland’s acclaimed SuperNATURAL piano tones, delivering unmatched realism and expression. Hear the difference for yourself through onboard speakers or headphones.

PROS

  • One of the best entry level keyboard pianos on the market.
  • We found it has everything a beginner or intermediate user would need.
  • At this price I would say it is as close to a real piano as I think you will get.
  • Really nice action

CONS

  • Not a lot of features compared to competitors but to be honest we actually liked this about it as it helped us to focus on just playing.
  • Speakers sounded a tiny bit tinny 

Roland FP-10 – Compact 88-Note Digital Piano with SuperNATURAL Piano Tones and…
  • Meet the FP-10, the starting point of the acclaimed FP-Series from Roland which has defined how a digital…
  • Rich, responsive tone from Roland’s renowned SuperNATURAL Piano sound engine.
  • Keys feel like a real acoustic piano, with expressive touch and ivory feel.

Donner SE-1 Full Size 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard  – BEST FEATURES AT PRICE POINT

Donner SE-1 Full Size 88 Key Digital Piano

Donner SE-1 88 Key Digital Piano – A Musician’s Dream! The Donner SE-1 88 Key Digital Piano is the perfect choice for any musician who wants to give their sound a professional touch. This full-size electric piano keyboard offers incredible sound quality, portability, and affordability. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this digital piano so special.

The SE-1 is a full-size, 88 key digital piano with semi-weighted keys. It features three levels of sensitivity that allow you to customize the playing experience to your own preference. Whether you’re playing classical pieces or jazz tunes, you can be sure that the keys will respond accurately and precisely to each note. The keys are also velocity sensitive, meaning they will recognize how hard or soft you press them and respond in kind.

In addition to its impressive sound quality, the SE-1 is incredibly easy to transport thanks to its lightweight design and convenient carrying handle. You can easily fit it into the boot of most vehicles or carry it on public transportation without any hassle. Best of all, it comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that gives you up to five hours of continuous playtime before needing to be recharged.

Scores

PRICE

5/5

SOUND

4.3/5

KEY SENSITIVITY

4.2/5

FEATURES

4.8/5

BUILD QUALITY

4.5/5

Summary: The SE-1 also comes with over 200 sounds and rhythms built in, allowing you to experiment with different styles and tones without having to purchase additional equipment or samples. Plus, it has a variety of effects including chorus, vibrato, tremolo, delay, and more that let you really customize your sound and create unique compositions easily. Last but not least, it comes with an integrated metronome so you can keep time accurately while practicing your favourite songs or creating new music from scratch! It comes in at just over £300 .

 CREATE BEAUTIFUL SOUND – The Donner SE-1 88-key digital piano was designed for a rich and expressive sound. With weighted keys that simulate the feeling of a real piano, you can create beautiful music with ease.

– SIMPLE AND STYLISH – This keyboard has a sleek, streamlined design that will look great in any setting. The matte surface shows texture without losing fashion. And at only 10.5kg/23lbs, it’s easy to move around wherever you need it.

– VERSATILE FUNCTIONALITY – The 1.3 inch display with multi-function direct buttons makes this keyboard easy to use. Supports microphones for karaoke or practice, and even has a dual-tone mode for combining two voices together.

LIGHTWEIGHT AND STYLISH – The matte surface shows texture without losing fashion. The piano body (not including the wooden stand) weighs only 10.5kg/23lbs and is 25% thinner than the old versions.

– REALISTIC WEIGHTED KEYS – The keyboard uses wooden graded hammer-action weighted keys that simulate the feeling of a real piano, giving you more control over your sound.

 

PROS

  • Lot of features for the cost.
  • Excellent volume output
  • Nice solid build quality

CONS

  • We noticed the occasional sound delay
  • More piano sounds would have been nice

Donner SE-1 88 Key Digital Piano with Graded Hammer Action Weighted Keys, Record,…
  • 🎹Professional Keyboard Texture – Donner SE-1 88 keys full-size weighted keyboard uses wooden graded…
  • 🎹Upgrade Design – Donner SE-1 88-key digital piano with a lighter body, sleek and simple streamlined…
  • 🎹Rich Timbre – Donner SE-1 88 keys keyboard piano provides a dual-tone mode for combining two voices…

RockJam 61 Key Keyboard Piano Kit with Digital Piano – BEST ENTRY LEVEL 

RockJam 61 Key Keyboard Piano Kit with Digital Piano

The RockJam 61 Keyboard Piano Kit is an excellent digital piano that offers a variety of features to anyone who’s looking for a quality instrument at an affordable price. As the name suggests, it comes with 61 keys, along with a sustain pedal, stand, and stool – everything you need to get started playing right away. Let’s take a deeper look at the RockJam 61 and see how it compares to other entry-level digital pianos on the market.

Features & Specifications:

The RockJam 61 is designed to be easy to use and beginner-friendly. It has five learning modes, which are perfect for those who are just starting out on the piano. It also comes equipped with record and playback functions so you can track your progress as you learn new pieces. On top of that, it has 50 demo songs built in so you can get started playing right away! You can even plug in headphones if you want to practice quietly or late at night without disturbing anyone else in the house. Not only that but there’s also an LCD display screen so you can easily adjust volume levels or switch between sounds.

The keyboard itself has semi-weighted keys which gives them a more realistic feel than some cheaper models on the market. It also has built-in stereo speakers so you don’t have to worry about connecting it to external speakers if you don’t want to – although the sound quality isn’t quite as good as some more expensive models. Lastly, this model is portable enough that it can be taken anywhere without much effort – making it perfect for musicians who are always on the go!

Scores

PRICE

5/5

SOUND

4/5

KEY SENSITIVITY

4.2/5

FEATURES

4.2/5

BUILD QUALITY

4.5/5

Summary: Overall, this model performs better than many other entry-level digital pianos on the market today. The keys have a realistic feel and respond well when played with expression – something not all budget models offer. The LCD display is easy to read and navigate through all of its various functions while the demo songs help make learning easier for beginners who may not be familiar with musical notation yet (or just need some inspiration). The price point makes it accessible for even those on a tight budget but still delivers quality performance overall!

PROS

  • Very easy to get up and running, even for a beginner
  • Cheap digital piano but still an excellent model
  • Probably the best model that is suitable for kids and adults

CONS

  • I found the keys a little spongey
  • Does not come with a midi cable

RockJam 61 Key Keyboard Piano Kit with Digital Piano Bench, Electric Piano Stand,…
  • The RockJam 661 keyboard piano super kit includes an electronic keyboard with 61 full-size keys that…
  • This RockJam 661 digital piano keyboard features an LCD panel that both displays and engages the 100…
  • The RockJam 661 electric piano has record and playback functionality allowing you to build layers to your…

Alesis Recital Pro Digital Piano Keyboard – BEST OVERALL PICK

Alesis Recital Pro Digital Piano Review

The Alesis Recital Pro digital piano is a great option for musicians of all levels. This 88-key digital piano offers semi-weighted keys, 128 voices, and 20 built-in sounds with layering and split options. It also comes with an adjustable stand, power adapter, and sustain pedal. In this review, we’ll break down the features and benefits of this digital piano to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Sound Quality:

The Alesis Recital Pro delivers rich sound quality that is suitable for the aspiring musician or experienced performer alike. The 88 semi-weighted keys give a realistic feel that allows you to play expressively while still having a natural response from the keys. Additionally, there are 128 voices to choose from that provide a wide range of tones perfect for any genre of music. With 20 built-in sounds including pianos, organs, strings, synths, and more, you can layer or split them in various combinations to create unique textures. Plus, you can save up to 16 different sounds in 4 banks which can be accessed quickly using the 4 buttons on the control panel.

Connectivity Options:

The Alesis Recital Pro has many connectivity options that make it incredibly versatile. It has both USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI ports so that you can easily connect it to other devices such as your computer or iPad/iPhone via cable or wireless connections. Plus, there are two 1/4” headphone jacks which allow for private practice sessions or dual performances with another musician. You can also connect directly to your home stereo system via the RCA outputs for a more powerful sound experience. Finally, the included power adapter ensures that all your audio needs are met without draining your laptop battery life during extended jam sessions or gigs.

Scores

PRICE

5/5

SOUND

5/5

KEY SENSITIVITY

5/5

FEATURES

5/5

BUILD QUALITY

5/5

Summary: Overall, our testing revealed the Alesis Recital Pro digital piano is an excellent choice for musicians who want a high-quality instrument at an affordable price point. Its 88 semi-weighted keys provide realistic feel while its 128 voices and 20 built-in sounds allow users to create unique textures and tones that suit their style of playing perfectly. Plus its multiple connectivity options ensure it will stay compatible with whatever devices they use now or in future years. If you’re looking for an instrument with great sound quality at an accessible price point then the Alesis Recital Pro digital piano is definitely worth considering!

PROS

  • Our tests confirmed this is a serious piece of kit that delivered on every element of our scoring system
  • Exemplary build quality
  • Sound was fantastic
  • Keys as similar to a grand piano as you will get for this money

CONS

  • Not loaded with effects, voices and rhythms but to be honest we actually prefer it like this
  • Quite heavy. Again this could be seen as a positive but we wanted to highlight it as some people may not want a model as heavy as this.

 

Alesis Recital Pro – Digital Piano Keyboard with 88 Weighted Hammer Action Keys, 12…
  • A Digital piano that’s tailored to you: Feature-packed electric keyboard with 88 premium full-sized…
  • Premium sounds: 12 voices (Incl. acoustic piano, electric piano organ, synth and bass), built-in FX:…
  • All the right connections: ¼ Inch sustain pedal input (not included), ¼ Inch stereo headphone output…

Yamaha P-45B Digital Piano – GOOD VALUE

The Yamaha brand of digital piano has usually been one of the most effective out there, and many found that with this P-45 they were getting everything that was possibly needed right from the get-go. It’s a strong and effective piano, one that provides as many as 10 stereo-sampled voices to give you a brilliant extra level of input.

This also makes use of a brilliant dual mode system which allows for two voices to be combined for even better versatility. It’s the little features with this piano that make it so easy to use and appreciate. For a start, it makes use of the 88-key graded hammer standard keyboard setting and combines it with these extra features to give it more power than before.

It also makes use of the duo function, which enables the keyboard to split into two identical zones. This means that students and teachers can work together as they operate, making the learning experience much easier.
From newbies who are just beginning to learn the piano to those who want a reliable and effective piano at a very affordable price, The Yamaha P-45 is well worth trying out in the future.

Scores

PRICE

5/5

SOUND

5/5

KEY SENSITIVITY

5/5

FEATURES

5/5

BUILD QUALITY

5/5

Summary: I feel Yamaha have produced another really nice Piano with the P-45B. For me it looks like it was targeted to tick all the boxes many beginners would be looking for. Coming in at under £400 it is model worth considering.

PROS

  • Simple but stylish design you would expect from Yamaha
  • Good selection of features to experiment with
  • Yamaha continuously improve their tones and this is evident in the P-45B
  • It was delightful to use the weighted hammer keys

CONS

  • It was a bit too big for us to test as a table top so we had to revert to the stand
  • Skilled pianists may not like the sound of the keys when pressed.

 

YAMAHA P-45B Digital Piano – Light and Portable Piano for Hobbyists and Beginners, in…
  • Authenticity and portability in one: Authentic acoustic piano sound in a compact and portable package -…
  • This full size piano offers a graded hammer standard (GSH) 88-key piano keyboard and 10 quality Voices -…
  • Lightweight and compact design for ideal portability: It’s slim and light design, makes P-45B your…

FAQ'S

How do digital pianos work?

Digital pianos use digital sampling technology to generate their sounds. This involves recording the sound of a real acoustic piano and then storing it in onboard memory or on a computer. When you play a digital piano, the recorded sound is played back through speakers, giving you the experience of playing a real piano.

What are the benefits of playing a digital piano?

There are many benefits to playing a digital piano over an acoustic piano. For one, digital pianos are much more portable than acoustic pianos, making them ideal for traveling musicians. Additionally, digital pianos typically have more features than acoustic pianos, such as the ability to connect to computers and other devices, and they often come with built-in speakers.

Are there any disadvantages to playing a digital piano?

One potential disadvantage of playing a digital piano is that they can sometimes lack the authentic feel of playing an acoustic piano. Additionally, digital pianos require power in order to function, so if there is a power outage, you will not be able to play your instrument.

How do I care for my digital piano?

Caring for your digital piano is relatively simple – just be sure to keep it clean and dust-free! You can use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the instrument; avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners as these could damage the finish or electronics of your Piano

How do digital pianos compare to acoustic pianos?

Digital pianos use digital sampling technology to generate their sounds. This involves recording the sound of a real acoustic piano and then storing it in onboard memory or on a computer. When you play a digital piano, the recorded sound is played back through speakers, giving you the experience of playing a real piano.

Do I need to tune my digital piano?

No, you do not need to tune your digital piano like you would an acoustic piano. However, you may want to periodically check that all of the keys are functioning properly and that there is no dust or debris build-up inside the instrument. Additionally, some models allow you to adjust the “touch” or “feel” of the keys to your preference—so if you find that the keys are too hard or too soft for your liking, you can usually change this setting without any issue.

Can I play my digital piano through headphones?

Yes—most digital pianos have built-in headphone jacks so that you can practice without disturbing others around you. This is also a great way to avoid feedback if you’re playing through amplified speakers. Additionally, many models come with built-in metronomes or other practice tools that can only be used when headphones are plugged in—so if you plan on using these features regularly, be sure to invest in a good pair of headphones!

My digital piano isn’t making any sound - what could be wrong?

There are several possible reasons why your digital piano might not be producing any sound: firstly, check that all of the connections are secure and that there is power running to the unit; secondly, check that all of the settings (e.g., volume levels) are turned up; thirdly, check that no external devices (e.g., phones or laptops) are muted or set too low; fourthly, consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips specific to your model; and finally, if all else fails, contact customer support for assistance

Digital Piano Reviews
5

Summary

The quality of the digital pianos has greatly improved over the past few years. The sounds produced by most digital pianos are indistinguishable from the sounds produced by the acoustic pianos. Buyers will have to choose from different kinds of digital pianos including the workstation, stage piano or arranger based on their preferences. When purchasing a piano, the buyer has to think about the number of extra features and the essential quality. Some features that should be considered include the sample rate, number of keys and whether keys are hammer-weighted. Regardless of the features that you want in a digital piano, you can always get a piano for players of every skill level.

Last update on 2024-10-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API