Best Digital Piano & Keyboards 2025: I Tested 100 + Models

Choosing the best digital piano in 2025 can feel overwhelming, with many options for your attention. Unfortunately, many “best digital piano” lists online are created by people who haven’t even tested the instruments or have zero background in playing the piano, leaving you with vague recommendations and little practical guidance. That’s why I’ve taken a different approach.

To create this ultimate guide, I’ve personally tested over 100 digital pianos and keyboards, from beginner-friendly options to high-end models. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade to something more advanced, I’ve done the heavy lifting—comparing key action, sound quality, features, and value—so you don’t have to.

If you’re having difficulty deciding, please get in touch with me via the chatbot below, which is a direct message, not an AI chatbot. 

Here’s a quick review of the best keyboards/digital pianos currently available in 2025:

While I’ve created this to be the ultimate guide to meet your needs, I also offer the only independent digital piano consulting service in which I will help you choose which one to get for your specific needs.

Best Budget Portable Keyboards

We are going to kick this list off with the cheapest keyboards we recommend. These are extremely portable options and they will not have weighted keys as they’re not considered digital pianos.

Should budget be a major factor, or if you are simply looking for a solid option for your kids, these are a great place to start.

Note: The most keys that we were able to find for this price range was 61. This is actually a solid amount of keys to begin learning on and what I began lessons on some 20 years ago.

Should you choose to want weighted keys, continue below to get to some digital pianos with weighted keys.

Quick Comparison Table Of Each Top Pick

Roland GO:KEYS 3 – Best Budget Keyboard

✅ Surprisingly good sounds
✅ Super lightweight
✅ Intuitive looping function
✅ Bluetooth MIDI & Audio
⛔ Non-weighted keys
⛔ Not for serious classical practice

I’ve owned the Roland GO:KEYS 3 for a couple of months now, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite go-to tools for songwriting—especially when I’m juggling dad duties and want something portable with inspiring sounds. This thing seriously caught me off guard in the best way possible.

**As a dad, I’ve had a blast playing the Go Keys with my daughter who is just about turn one years old.

The GO:KEYS 3 is technically an entry-level arranger keyboard, but don’t let that label fool you—it’s a legitimate creative tool with way more sonic power than you’d expect at this price. I got the red version, which looks awesome, but it’s what’s under the hood that impressed me most.

The sounds on this keyboard absolutely crush anything in its price range. It runs on Roland’s ZEN-Core sound engine and offers over 1,100 tones and 200+ backing styles—more than enough to spark ideas and even use in a pro setting. I’veused this to write full demos and come up with melodies that eventually made it into full tracks.

One of my favorite features is the chord sequencer and arranger. You can quickly program in four-chord loops and jam over them with different styles—everything from chill lo-fi to funk grooves. It’s intuitive, and I’ve lost track of how many hours I’ve spent just messing around with this.

While the key action is definitely the weakest part (it’s not weighted, and it’s not meant to be), it’s still playable and responsive enough to enjoy. Don’t expect it to replicate a digital piano—it’s not trying to be that.

If you’re looking for a creative keyboard under $400 that’s portable, fun, and doesn’t feel like a toy, I fully stand by this one. I use it weekly, and it’s one of the few budget boards I’d recommend to songwriters, producers, or parents trying to sneak in some playing time like me.

What I Like

• Extremely portable, making it easy to move and use in different settings.
• Sound quality exceeded my expectations, especially in the synth department.
• Affordable, making it accessible for kids and beginners.
• User-friendly interface, ideal for keeping young musicians engaged.
• Perfect for songwriters

What I Don’t Like

• Lacks weighted keys, which may not suit those looking to practice piano technique.
• Built-in speakers are functional but not powerful enough for larger spaces or performances.
• It’s not ideal for advanced pianists or those focused on classical repertoire unless it’s being used to write music, which is how I use it personally.

Verdict

The Roland GO:KEYS 3 is one of the most fun and creatively inspiring keyboards I’ve used under $400. It’s not trying to be a digital piano—it’s a songwriting and idea-generation machine. Between the arranger, synth sounds, and portability, it’s a board I reach for constantly when I want to write without overthinking.

Best Digital Pianos Under $500

Should you be focusing on options that are under $500, I highly recommend checking out a complete guide to the best digital pianos under $500.

With this being said, let’s take a look at a couple of solid options under this price tag. These are going to get you a digital piano that will last you a couple of years easily before upgrading.

Since this price point is aimed towards beginners, you will notice that these options will come with learning software as well, such as piano apps or subscriptions to services.

Alesis Prestige Artist – Best Digital Piano Under $500

✅ 88 full-weighted hammer-action keys
✅ Great piano sounds for the price
✅ 256-note polyphony
✅ Built-in lesson mode and metronome
⛔ Limited built-in tones
⛔ No app integration or USB audio

I’ve spent a lot of time testing the Alesis Prestige Artist, and for under $500, it’s one of the strongest options available today. What makes this keyboard stand out is how much it actually feels like a real digital piano without being crazy expensive. Alesis hit the mark here with something that bridges the gap between budget and performance—something I rarely say in this price bracket.

If you’re a beginner looking to start with weighted keys, or even an intermediate player needing a solid secondary board for home practice, the Prestige Artist delivers with a combination of reliable key feel, powerful polyphony, and clean, focused piano tones. This, easily tops the Korg B-2 in my honest opinion.

What I Like

The Prestige Artist features 88 full-weighted keys, and I was pleasantly surprised by how playable they are. For a sub-$500 board, the key feel is actually very good—responsive, evenly weighted, and closer to acoustic piano feel than many others in this range.

It also includes 256-note polyphony, which is a standout spec in this price range and something that even boards $200 more sometimes skip. This ensures smoother performance during complex pieces and layered playing.

The built-in sounds, while limited in number, are genuinely solid. The acoustic piano tone is clean and pleasant, and the onboard speakers (two 25W drivers) are loud enough to fill a room without distortion.

I also appreciate lesson mode, which splits the keyboard evenly and is perfect for student/teacher practice or duets. You also get a metronome and basic onboard recording—tools that matter if you’re learning or just practicing regularly.

What I Don’t Like

The sound library is small—you won’t get the variety of tones you’d find in something like the Yamaha P-125 or Casio PX-S1100. It covers the basics but doesn’t offer much beyond that.

There’s also no USB audio interface or app connectivity, which feels like a missed opportunity in today’s market. For players looking to record or interface quickly with a DAW or mobile app, you’ll need to rely on MIDI or an external audio interface.

Verdict

If you’re on a budget and looking for a keyboard that feels like a real instrument, the Alesis Prestige Artist is a great pick.I’ve tested nearly every board in this price range, and this one consistently punches above its weight. The solid key action, strong polyphony, and clean tones make it a reliable starter or practice instrument.

• While it doesn’t offer deep sound design or USB recording, what it does deliver is a clean, focused digital piano experience that beginners will actually want to keep playing.

Roland FP-10 – Runner Up Under $500

✅ PHA-4 Standard weighted keys

✅ SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine

✅ Bluetooth MIDI

⛔ Minimal onboard sounds

⛔ Limited onboard controls

The Roland FP-10 had ruled the digital piano market under $500 for years, until the Alesis Prestige Artist series hit. I’ve owned the FP-10 and recommended it countless times because it nails what a beginner digital piano should be: simple, responsive, and built around sound and feel first.

The FP-10 is Roland’s entry-level portable digital piano, but don’t let “entry-level” fool you—it shares the same PHA-4 Standard key action found in Roland’s more expensive models. That means this board doesn’t just look like a piano, it feels like one. If you’re just starting out and want something that mimics the real thing without breaking your budget, this is an ideal place to begin.

It features Roland’s SuperNatural Piano sound engine, which offers a clean, dynamic piano tone that’s easily one of the best in this price range. There aren’t a ton of presets—just 15 tones in total—but what’s here is refined and usable. For most players, especially beginners, quality beats quantity, and Roland clearly focused on getting the fundamentals right.

The FP-10 also comes with Bluetooth MIDI, which opens up easy connection to learning apps, DAWs, and VSTs. You can use Roland’s Piano Every Day app or connect to something like GarageBand or Flowkey for lessons and tracking progress. It’s a really useful feature, especially if you’re not using external MIDI interfaces.

What I Like

The PHA-4 keybed is one of the best keypads you’ll feel under $500, with only the Prestige Artist challenging it. It’s responsive, graded, and replicates the feel of a real acoustic piano better than most competitors at this level. For building solid finger strength and technique, this key action gets the job done.

The SuperNatural sound engine is another win. I’ve played nearly every major digital piano engine on the market, and Roland consistently delivers realistic dynamic response and tone character—even with a limited sound library.

Bluetooth MIDI is also a huge plus. It makes connecting to apps and software effortless, which is especially valuable for students and creators alike.

What I Don’t Like

There aren’t many onboard controls. You’ll need to rely on a function key to change voices or settings, and there’s no screen, which can make navigation feel clunky for some.

Also, the sound library is limited, with only 15 tones total. While the pianos are fantastic, if you’re someone who likes to experiment with different instrument sounds straight from the board, this may feel restrictive.

Verdict

The FP-10 still sets the standard for digital pianos under $500. It nails the two most important things—realistic key action and expressive piano sound—and it does it with Roland’s proven build quality. If you’re serious about starting piano and want an instrument that won’t hold you back as you progress, this is the one I recommend most in this price range.

It’s not flashy, but it’s functional and built with intention. A workhorse digital piano that has earned its spot on this list.

Best Intermediate Digital Pianos Under $1,000

This is the category that I usually recommend to those who can afford it and to those who have been playing the piano for a couple of years.

Frankly, you can get a whole lot of features and fantastic sounds at this price point. Should you go with one of these options, you will end up with a digital piano that will last you many years.

Roland FP-60X Great Intermediate Level Digital Piano

✅ PHA-4 Standard weighted keys
✅ SuperNatural Piano engine
✅ Bluetooth audio and MIDI
✅ Customizable EQ and ambiance settings
⛔ Heavier than some competitors
⛔ Menu navigation takes time to get used to

The Roland FP-60X has quietly become one of my go-to picks for players who are ready to level up without dropping thousands. After spending time testing this side-by-side with the Yamaha P-125, the FP-60X just took it down in every way that mattered to me—especially when it came to key feel and sound flexibility.

I’ve spent over a year with this board, and what stood out immediately was the feel of the keys. The PHA-4 Standard action is the same one used in higher-end Roland models, and for the price, it’s about as close as you’re going to get to an acoustic upright. When paired with Roland’s SuperNatural piano engine, the sound and touch just come together naturally. It doesn’t feel like a compromise—it feels like an instrument you actually want to keep playing.

What pushed this over the top for me, though, was the Bluetooth MIDI and audio. I connected it straight to my iPad and was running VSTs and backing tracks in seconds. For someone who’s constantly bouncing between writing, recording, and dad life, that kind of convenience is a massive win.

What I Like

The key action feels great. Responsive, dynamic, and balanced—it’s the kind of feel that makes you want to keep playing.If you’ve ever tried the FP-30X, this is a noticeable step up.

The piano tones are beautiful. Roland’s SuperNatural engine delivers rich, warm, and expressive sounds, and you can tweak them with onboard EQ, reverb, and ambiance settings. I’m someone who loves shaping tone, and this board gives you real control.

Bluetooth MIDI and audio are super convenient. Whether you’re practicing with an app or using soft synths, it all justworks without needing extra gear.

The speakers surprised me. The 2-way internal speaker system throws out more sound than I expected—great for small performances or jamming without external monitors.

What I Don’t Like

It’s not feather-light. At just under 43 lbs, it’s still portable, but definitely heavier than something like the P-125 or FP-30X.

The menu system can be a little clunky. Once you figure it out, it’s fine—but if you’re someone who likes quick hands-on controls, there’s a bit of a learning curve at first.

Verdict

The FP-60X has become one of my favorite recommendations for anyone looking for a serious digital piano under $1,000. It just checks all the boxes—realistic key feel, rich sound, Bluetooth connectivity, and enough flexibility to grow with you as a player. While I’ve always liked the Yamaha P-125, when I put them next to each other, the FP-60X just felt more inspiring.

Kawai ES120 – Our Top Pick Under $1,000

✅ Responsive Hammer Compact action
✅ Beautiful SK-EX piano sampling
✅ Bluetooth audio and MIDI
✅ Excellent onboard speaker clarity
⛔ Limited number of sounds
⛔ Basic LCD interface

When I first sat down with the ES120, I honestly wasn’t expecting it to beat out some of the other options in this price range. But after playing it back-to-back with boards like the FP-30X and P-125, it quickly rose to the top. The feel of thekeys is what immediately pulled me in—Kawai’s Responsive Hammer Compact (RHC) action is incredibly balanced and expressive. You get weight without sluggishness, and it just feels musical.

Sound-wise, Kawai nailed it. The ES120 uses their Harmonic Imaging technology with samples from the SK-EX concert grand, and it really comes through in the tone. There’s a warmth and realism here that I find super inspiring for bothpracticing and writing.

Add in Bluetooth audio and MIDI, and you’ve got something that doesn’t just sound good—it’s modern and connected too.

What I Like

The key action is easily one of the best at this level. The RHC keybed has just the right resistance and response, and it genuinely plays like a more expensive instrument.

The SK-EX grand piano sampling is beautifully done. It’s expressive, full, and has a ton of character—especially through headphones or external monitors. Even the onboard speakers project surprisingly well for how compact the ES120 is.

Bluetooth MIDI and audio make it super easy to connect to learning apps, DAWs, or stream backing tracks directly to the piano. This makes it a great option for both students and songwriters.

At around 26 lbs, it’s incredibly lightweight for what it offers, making it easy to transport or move around your space.

What I Don’t Like

The number of onboard sounds is limited. You’re not getting a deep library of electric pianos, pads, or synths here—just the essentials.

The LCD display and control interface are pretty barebones. It works, but navigating through settings isn’t as smooth or modern as something like the Roland FP-X series.

Verdict

The Kawai ES120 is now my top recommendation under $1,000 for players who care about tone and touch above all else. If you’re more focused on playing than flipping through 50 sound presets, this board delivers exactly what you need—and it does so with elegance and musicality. Compared to the FP-30X, which I’ve long recommended, the ES120 feels slightly more refined in sound characteristics.

Donner DDP-80 Plus – Alternative Pick Around $700

✅ Very budget-friendly
✅ Clean, modern design
✅ Includes accessories like stand and headphones
✅ Lightweight and portable
⛔ Key action is below average
⛔ Sound quality is passable, but not impressive

I always like to have at least one pick on this list for people who want to dip their toe into digital pianos without spending big—and the DDP-80 Plus checks that box. It comes in at a great price, especially considering you often get a stand and headphones included in the bundle.

The best thing about it is the look. The wood finish and minimalist design make it blend into a modern living space way better than a lot of plasticky, bulky options in this price range. If you’re decorating a space and want a keyboard that doesn’t scream “budget instrument,” this actually delivers.

That said, the key action is noticeably less realistic than what you’d find on a Casio PX-770 or even the Alesis Prestige Artist. It’s fine for learning basic technique, but it’s not going to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano.

The sound engine is decent, but you’ll notice limitations if you’ve played Roland, Kawai, or Yamaha. The samples are clean, but lack depth and complexity—especially when playing with dynamics or pedal control.

What I Like

It’s incredibly affordable, especially for new players who just want to start playing without stressing over gear.

The design is really slick. I’ve had a lot of people compliment it in person—it just looks way more premium than the pricewould suggest.

It’s lightweight and easy to move around. If you’re in an apartment or small room, this is a nice compact option thatdoesn’t take over your space.

The accessories are a nice bonus. Having a matching stand and headphones included right out of the box makes setup easier for beginners.

What I Don’t Like

The key action is clearly a step below what you’ll get with Roland’s PHA-4 or Kawai’s RHC. It’s playable, but not inspiring for more advanced technique.

The piano sound is decent for the price, but it doesn’t stack up to more established brands. You’ll hear the difference, especially with headphones.

There are no standout features beyond the basics—no Bluetooth, limited connectivity, and not much room for customization.

Verdict

The DDP-80 Plus isn’t trying to be a pro-level digital piano—and that’s okay. For the price, it’s a solid entry point with a beautiful design and just enough functionality to get started.

If your priority is aesthetics and affordability, and you’re looking for something that looks great in your space while you get comfortable with the basics, this is a perfectly fine pick. 

$1,000 to $1,500

Here’s a Quick Look at some solid options in this price point!

Roland RD-88 EX – Best Stage Piano Under $1,500

✅ PHA-4 Standard key action
✅ 3,000+ tones from Zen-Core Engine
✅ SuperNATURAL Piano 3 Expansion
✅ Slim, lightweight stage-ready build
✅ Bluetooth MIDI, audio, and USB interface
⛔ Small screen, no touchscreen
⛔ Limited onboard sound storage
⛔ Could have a more intuitive navigation menu

Roland’s RD line has always been built for the stage, but the RD-88 EX blends that pro-performance feel with a home studio workflow. The PHA-4 key action feels amazing—tight, expressive, and balanced. Honestly, this is my favorite keybed at this price point, and I’ve played just about everything out there.

What really impressed me, though, is the Zen-Core sound engine. You’re getting over 3,000 sounds, including synths, electric pianos, strings, pads, and more. But it’s the acoustic piano tones that hit hardest for me—thanks to the SuperNATURAL Piano 3 Expansion, which adds even more realism and detail.

It’s lightweight and compact, yet includes built-in speakers that are actually usable. I didn’t expect much from them based on placement, but I was wrong—they’re clear, punchy, and great for practice or small performances.

What I Like

The key action is phenomenal. Roland’s PHA-4 Standard delivers a premium feel, and it’s just fun to play—responsive enough for subtle dynamics, sturdy enough for heavier playing.

The Zen-Core engine offers ridiculous variety. With over 3,000 tones, you can go from playing jazz ballads to cinematic pads without blinking. If you want flexibility, this has it.

The acoustic piano presets are expressive and full. I’ve tested a lot of stage pianos, and this one competes with more expensive boards in terms of tone.

Built-in speakers exceeded my expectations. Great for jamming at home or rehearsals when you don’t want to lug around monitors.

The interface is clean and performance-ready. Tactile knobs for EQ, reverb, chorus, and delay are intuitive, and layering or splitting sounds is fast and easy.

What I Don’t Like

The screen is small, and there’s no touchscreen. It works, but for deeper editing or navigating banks quickly, it can feel limited.

There’s no pitch stick. For players doing synth-heavy work, this might be a letdown compared to boards with more modulation control.

Onboard storage for custom patches is limited. If you’re someone who saves a ton of personalized sounds, you may need to manage them externally.

Verdict

The RD-88 EX is one of the most balanced stage pianos I’ve tested under $1,500. It’s built to handle just about anything—practice, production, performance—and it nails the fundamentals while giving you tons of room to explore creatively. If you want a board that feels and sounds high-end without the price tag that usually comes with that, this is it. 

Best High-End Digital Pianos From $2,000 to $3,000

We are now on to the part of the article in which we introduce the heavy-hitters. While these are options are expensive, all of these options are investments that you will get many years out of.

Roland FP-90X

When factoring in value, price, key-action, sounds, and features, I have come to the conclusion that the FP-90X is the best option overall This is completely subjective, but I really can’t get enough of the FP-X series.

The FP-X90 has improved in the sound department from the FP90 making it a contender for one of the most impressive digital pianos currently available.

If you are someone who has the money and likes the idea of incredible key-action as well as portability, then this is a fantastic choice.

This is the best version that the FP-X series has to offer, but it also the most expensive.

Key-Action

The key-action is one of the major selling points to the FP-90X in my opinion. It features the PHA-50 key-bed, which is Roland’s staple key-bed.

This is designed to truly emulate the intricacies of an acoustic piano in every way. This key-bed is a little heavier than your traditional digital piano, as it features hybrid wood and plastic construction.

To me, this is about as close as a digital piano has gotten to emulating the key-action of an acoustic piano.

Polyphony

The FP-90X features unlimited polyphony for pianos and 256 note polyphony for other presets. This is quite impressive and it will definitely be something you will be able to take advantage of.

The FP-90X uses 4 samples per every note, so as you start to add up the polyphony, it goes up quite drastically.

The Good

There is really a lot that we like when it comes to the FP-90X. It features incredible polyphony, great key-action, a solid speaker system, beautiful sounds, and amazing Bluetooth connectivity.

All of those are featured in a digital piano that weighs under 56 lbs. Should be looking to tour, the FP-90X would make a great option.

For those looking to taking piano lessons, you can hook up two headphones at the same time, should be wanting to link up with your instructor, or simply keep the noise down.

Should you really enjoy having 3 pedals, you can opt to purchase the stand that has a 3 pedal unit. I, personally don’t miss not having 3 pedals when I play digital pianos, but I can see why some do.

The Bluetooth capabilities are simply awesome with this digital piano. Having Bluetooth MIDI is a game-changer for when you are recording.

As far as the sounds go, I think the pianos sound better than FP-90 and they compete with everything near this price-point.

The speakers feature 8 x 4.7″, 2 x 1″ which is quite impressive from a digital piano.

You will also find amplifiers that are 2 x 25W, 2 x 5W.

Overall

Overall, this is my favorite digital piano currently available. With a solid speaker system, fantastic key-action, and great polyphony, it’s hard to compete with the FP-90X as a stage piano.

On the downside, this is an expensive digital piano.

Casio PX-S7000 Slim & Portable Beast

✅ Sleek, modern design with real wood stand
✅ Smart Hybrid Hammer Action keys
✅ Stunning piano tones with advanced modeling
✅ Bluetooth audio + MIDI
✅ Integrated 4-speaker system
⛔ Price may deter beginners
⛔ Limited onboard rhythms compared to arranger

I’ve owned the PX-S7000 for over a year now, and honestly, this thing still catches my attention every time I walk past it. Casio really delivered something special here—not just a digital piano, but a beautifully crafted piece that feels like it belongs in a high-end studio or living room.

The PX-S7000 is the top-tier flagship in Casio’s Privia line, and it’s clear from the moment you sit down that this isn’t just about specs—it’s about experience. From the soft-touch buttons to the wood-textured keys and real pedal setup, everything here feels polished.

The piano tones are beautiful—deep, expressive, and rich with harmonic nuance. The new Multi-Dimensional Morphing AiR engine brings out incredible realism, and the Smart Hybrid Hammer Action keybed feels better than anything Casio has done before. It plays like a premium digital piano should, with a touch that genuinely responds to your dynamics.

Bluetooth audio and MIDI are built-in, making it easy to connect apps or play along with your favorite tracks. And the 4-speaker system fills the room in a way that smaller boards just can’t replicate. Whether you’re playing solo, layering textures, or running it as your home centerpiece, it does everything with style.

What I Like

The design is next level. Casio knocked it out of the park with the wood stand, seamless interface, and minimalist aesthetic. It fits into any room and looks like it belongs there.

The piano sounds are some of the best I’ve played under $3,000. The AiR engine combined with the smart key actiondelivers a warm, detailed tone that’s easy to get lost in.

The Bluetooth integration (both audio and MIDI) makes it flexible for modern setups—whether you’re streaming backing tracks or connecting to virtual instruments.

The included triple-pedal unit and custom stand aren’t afterthoughts—they’re part of the instrument, and they help make the PX-S7000 feel complete out of the box.

The speaker system sounds big and clear, whether you’re practicing at low volume or filling a room. The projection is seriously impressive for an all-in-one setup.

What I Don’t Like

It’s on the higher end price-wise, which might scare off beginners who are just testing the waters.

The rhythm/accompaniment features are limited. If you’re looking for full arranger-style backing, this isn’t that—but for a pure piano experience, that’s hardly a downside.

Verdict

The PX-S7000 is one of the most thoughtfully designed digital pianos I’ve ever used. It looks beautiful, sounds fantastic, and feels premium through and through. After a year of owning it, I still find myself reaching for it when I want to just sit and play something that feels inspiring. If you want a centerpiece instrument that blends design, sound, and functionality into a single package, this is an easy pick in the $2,000 to $3,000 range.

Roland GP-3 – Best Entry-Level Grand-Style Digital Piano

✅ Compact grand-style design
✅ SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling
✅ PHA-50 hybrid key action
✅ Bluetooth audio and MIDI
✅ Elegant polished finish
⛔ No customizable EQ like GP-9
⛔ Less speaker power than larger GP models

The Roland GP-3 is the most compact model in the GP series, but don’t let its size fool you—it still delivers a seriously expressive piano experience. I’ve spent hundreds of hours with both the Roland GP and Yamaha CLP series, and the GP-3 holds its own as a beautiful hybrid digital grand with a surprisingly big sound and refined key feel.

I’ve played nearly every digital grand on the market, and for the price, the GP-3 is one of the most immersive entry-level options available. It gives you the look and feel of a baby grand in a compact, space-saving cabinet. But more importantly—it plays like a real instrument. The PHA-50 keybed, with its wood/plastic hybrid construction, feels incredible and brings out a huge amount of nuance in your playing.

The piano tones are powered by Roland’s SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling, which continues to get better with every generation. You don’t get sampled velocity layers—you get full modeling, which means more dynamic expression and realism, especially through headphones or quality monitors.

Bluetooth audio and MIDI are built-in, so you can stream music directly to the piano or connect with apps and DAWs wirelessly. And while the speaker system isn’t as powerful as what you’ll find in the GP-9, it’s still more than enough for home practice and intimate settings.

What I Like

The PHA-50 key action feels premium. It strikes a great balance between the weight of a grand and the speed you want for expressive playing. It’s easily one of my favorite actions Roland offers at this level.

The modeling engine gives you rich, detailed tones that respond beautifully to dynamics. I’ve tested this side-by-side with the Yamaha CLP-735 and 745, and I personally gravitate toward the GP’s sound engine—especially when playing with headphones.

The grand-style cabinet adds a level of aesthetic presence that makes it feel like more than just a keyboard. It’s polished, compact, and looks great in any space.

Bluetooth functionality is seamless. Whether I’m streaming reference tracks, practicing with apps, or using MIDI wirelessly, it integrates smoothly.

What I Don’t Like

Unlike the GP-9, there’s no user EQ for shaping your tone directly from the panel. It’s not a dealbreaker, but I would’ve liked a bit more sound tailoring onboard.

The speaker system sounds good, but if you’re used to the massive projection of a full grand or something like the GP-9, you’ll notice it’s a step down in raw output.

Verdict

The GP-3 is one of the best entry points into the world of digital grands. You’re getting a gorgeous cabinet, Roland’s best key action at this level, and a sound engine that rivals anything in the CLP series. For players who want the aesthetic and feel of a grand piano without taking over an entire room (or emptying their wallet), the GP-3 delivers in all the right ways.

**If you’ve been debating between Yamaha’s CLP-735/745 and Roland’s GP series, I’ve played both extensively—and for my money, the GP-3 gives you a more expressive and modern experience, especially in terms of tone and key feel.

Best Digital Pianos $3,000 And Up

Yamaha Clavinova CLP-775 – Best Yamaha Digital Piano

The Yamaha Clavinova CLP-775 is Yamaha’s high-end option that they have to offer.

There really aren’t any areas that I don’t fantastic with the CLP-775, outside of its price tag.

Everything that you will see with this digital piano is going to be the highest-end that Yamaha can offer.

VRM Physical Modeling

Virtual Resonance Modeling is used to re-create the acoustic phenomenon that we see in a grand piano in which sound resonates throughout the entire body of the piano.

What VRM does is calculates the various states of the strings from one instant to the next for all of the 88 keys.

Personally, I believe this leads to providing us with an incredibly realistic sound overall.

The Good

The GrandTouch keyboard with wooden keys also has synthetic ivory and ebony keytops. At this price-point, this is almost assumed as we want to have the closest possible feeling to a real acoustic piano.

The speaker system is very powerful featuring 2 x 6.29″ speakers and a massive
2 x 42W + 50W + 50W amplifiers.

These are the most powerful amplifiers I have seen in a digital piano by far. This sound echoes through the body of this digital piano, leaving us with a fantastic sound.

The CLP-775 also has 256 note polyphony, 256 note polyphony, 38 voices, includes a bench as well as has an LCD screen.

Overall

For this price, the only thing that Yamaha could have possibly included would’ve been Bluetooth MIDI. As far as I know, this lacks Bluetooth MIDI.

Everything else with the CLP-775 is top-notch and personally one of my favorite options overall.

Roland GP-9 – Best Digital Grand Piano

✅ Premium grand piano key action (PHA-50)
✅ Full SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling
✅ Immersive multi-speaker projection
✅ Bluetooth audio and MIDI
✅ Smart touch panel and Roland Piano App
⛔ Price point limits accessibility
⛔ Large footprint—not ideal for smaller rooms

After spending an entire weekend playing the GP-9 side by side with other flagship models, I can confidently say this is the best digital piano I’ve ever played. From the moment you sit down, it doesn’t just feel premium—it feels alive. If you’re after the most realistic grand piano experience without going fully acoustic, the GP-9 is where the conversation ends.

The GP-9 takes everything Roland does well and pushes it to the extreme—in the best way. The PHA-50 keybed is the most responsive I’ve ever felt, and when paired with Roland’s full SuperNATURAL Modeling, it creates a level of nuance and dynamic control that you just don’t find anywhere else.

I’ve spent hundreds of hours playing both the GP and Yamaha CLP series, and this is the first time I’ve felt like a digital piano truly closes the gap. The multi-channel speaker system pushes sound in all directions with powerful bass, sparkling highs, and room-filling warmth. It doesn’t just mimic a grand—it projects like one.

Bluetooth audio and MIDI are both onboard, and the Roland Piano App gives you deep control over settings, tone, and even remote lessons. This piano integrates seamlessly into a modern lifestyle while delivering a traditional playing experience.

What I Like

The key action is flat-out phenomenal. It responds to the slightest nuance in your playing, and the hybrid wooden construction feels almost indistinguishable from a concert grand.

The sound modeling is in a class of its own. Because it’s modeled—not sampled—you can hear and feel harmonic resonance, key-off behavior, pedal interactions, and more. It reacts to how you play in real-time, not just based on volume.

The speaker system is the most immersive I’ve ever heard in a digital piano. It surrounds you in sound the way an acoustic grand would, whether you’re playing Debussy or a stripped-down modern ballad.

The design is stunning. Everything from the polished finish to the soft-close lid and premium pedals screams craftsmanship. It looks just as beautiful as it sounds.

Bluetooth, app integration, and wireless updates bring modern convenience to a timeless design. You get the best of both worlds.

What I Don’t Like

This is a serious investment. It’s not for casual players—it’s for those who want the best and are ready to commit to it.

The size makes it better suited for dedicated music rooms or larger living spaces. While it’s more compact than a full grand, it still has presence.

Verdict

The Roland GP-9 isn’t just a digital piano—it’s a flagship instrument in every sense of the word. The sound, the feel, the projection—it all comes together in a way that’s genuinely inspiring. After decades of playing and testing gear, this is the one I’d call the pinnacle of what digital pianos can be in 2025.

How We Test and Select The Digital Pianos On Our List & How To Choose The Best

Key Action

The feel of the keys is one of the most important aspects of any digital piano. I focus on key action replicating the natural response of acoustic pianos, whether graded hammer action, semi-weighted, or synth-action keys. 

High-Quality Sounds

Sound quality is non-negotiable. I look for keyboards with realistic tones, expressive dynamics, and cutting-edge sound engines that make every note come alive. 

Modern musicians need modern solutions. I evaluate products for features like Bluetooth audio, MIDI, and app integration, allowing seamless connectivity with devices, software, and streaming platforms. These tools are invaluable for learning, recording, and performing.

Options for Every Budget

I test keyboards and digital pianos across a range of price points, ensuring that every recommendation—whether for a beginner or a professional—offers outstanding value for its cost.

Trusted Manufacturers

I only recommend products from brands with a proven track record of quality, reliable customer support, and strong warranties. I also list the brands that you may see on social media that I don’t believe meet the quality standards of the brands on my list.

Real-World Usability

I play, record, and perform with each instrument to assess its durability, interface design, and usability in real-world scenarios.

Weighted Keys Vs Non-Weighted Keys

Nearly every instructor including myself will recommend to pianists a keyboard that has weighted keys. With this being said, weighted keys isn’t required to learn the piano.

The reason why piano instructors strongly recommend weighted keys is for finger dexterity and strength.

Acoustic piano keys are heavy and if you learn on a keyboard without weighted keys, you could develop poor technique and habits early on.

Should you or your child be looking for an experience that is closest to playing on a real acoustic piano, should go with an option with either fully-weighted keys or graded hammer action keys.

Graded hammer action keyboards are more expensive as each key is weighted differently from top to bottom like an acoustic piano.

If your child is younger, you can test the waters and check out some great keyboards for kids prior to spending more money.

Features

Certain digital pianos will come with additional features such as Bluetooth, recording abilities, and even subscriptions to certain online piano lessons.

The good news here is that you don’t have to spend a ton on a digital piano to get some great features and bundled software.

Budget

Unfortunately, like everything in life, your budget will play into the overall quality of your digital piano. As the price goes up, key features, sound quality, and overall quality tend to as well.

Intentions

If you are intending on learning to play the piano and you don’t care about have a bunch of excess songs, I recommend going with one of the cheaper digital pianos listed below.

Should you go with a keyboard, you will have more sound presets, but you will also lose some key components such as weighted keys and solid speakers.

Space

As you go up in price, you tend to get heavier, larger keyboards. While they will ultimately be smaller than acoustic pianos, you can still run into space issues depending on your living situation.

Polyphony

The polyphony becomes very important as you start to look at the higher-end of digital pianos. For beginners, I don’t believe it to be as important.

With this being said, I think it’s smart to try and go for over 64 note polyphony at the very minimum.

Should you be looking for a higher-end digital piano, then I would recommend at minimum 96 note polyphony and preferably 128 or more.

Here is a beginner’s guide to polyphony, should you be interested!