Learning to play the piano is an enriching experience, so if you have chosen the piano you have made a great choice! Today we look into the 8 best digital pianos under $1000!
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The Best Digital Pianos Under $1000: Expert Reviews
1. Roland FP-10
Features
The Roland FP-10 is one of the best beginner digital pianos under $1000. It is one of the best value instruments in its price point with a fantastic weighted hammer action keybed, (the PHA IV action), and high-quality onboard sounds.
You will find the same PHA-IV keybed found in the FP-10 in more expensive digital pianos from Roland, which is a testament to its quality and responsiveness.
This Roland digital also doubles as an excellent midi piano controller that fits perfectly into a home studio setup, thanks to the USB to midi output. It also features Bluetooth 4.0 and two 6W speakers which work well for home practice
The keys also have a simulated ebony and ivory feel that helps to absorb moisture, and there are 5 levels of touch response to fine-tune your playing style.
With 96-note polyphony you are prepared for complex classical and Jazz pieces or 88-note glissandos should you need to do that. The FP10 also has two split zones and a layer function included. If you want a beginner digital piano, this one is hard to beat!
Sounds
This piano features some impressive onboard sounds. The Supernatural sound engine contains 4 Piano tones that each sound unique, 4 great Electric Pianos, and 9 sounds in the other category.
Connections
Strangely, the FP-10 does not have dual Jack ports for connecting to speakers on stage. Instead, you use the headphone port out on the front as a connector.
It is clear that the FP-10, being an entry model, was designed more for home practice than for use on stage, though it can be used as a stage piano.
Conclusion
The Roland FP-10 is an all-around workhorse and one of the best beginner digital pianos available. It has some impressive features considering its price bracket. Here are the main points to take away.
- PHA-IV Weighted action
- Split and Layer
- Simple yet robust design
- Low weight – 12 KG (27 Pounds)
2. Roland FP-30X
Features
The Roland FP-30X is a revised and updated version of the older FP-30 model. It is a noticeable step up over the beginner FP-10, with better sounds and upgraded dual 11W speakers.
These are louder and sound richer than those on the FP-10, so if you do not like practicing your instrument with headphones, the FP-30X will be worth the added cost.
Unlike the FP-10, the FP-30X also allows you to record your songs. The SMF recording allows you to record MIDI files on the instrument, storing a total of 30,000 notes.
You have 256 notes of polyphony with the FP-30X. This is more than twice what is offered on the FP-10 and allows you to layer several ‘patches’ or samples simultaneously without losing any sound.
If you plan on layering a piano sound with EP or strings for example, the FP-30X will be worth the extra money or upgrade over the FP-10. Whilst it is better than the FP-10 and suitable for advanced pianists, it is still an excellent beginner digital piano as well.
Sounds
The FP-30X features 12 Piano samples (8 more than the FP10), 20 Electric Pianos (16 more), and 24 sounds in the other category (many more).
Here again, we have a noticeable step up over the FP10. With these added sounds the FP-30X is more versatile for both composing and performing.
There are 30 songs included with the FP-30X, which you can listen to for inspiration or choose to learn in your own time.
This instrument is also compatible with the Roland Piano App and Piano Designer App, which allow you to play even more sounds and customize your tones. This allows you to adjust things like the piano lid, string resonance, damper resonance, and key-off noise.
Connections
You also have a far better setup with the connectors compared to the FP-10. There are dual output jacks (1/4-inch phone types) for connecting to PAs and Amps, and USB MIDI Audio and USB type A.
The FP-30X has an internal USB mixer and so can be used as a plug-and-play MIDI controller keyboard.
Conclusion
- Many more sounds over FP-10
- 256 Note Polyphony
- More advanced features: Piano App, Piano Designer, SMF Record)
- Still light at 14.8 KG (32 Pounds)
FP-60X and FP-90X
It is worth noting that there are two more entries in the Roland FP series that you may find of interest. The FP-60X and FP-90X are the higher-end digital pianos in this range.
As they are not low-cost instruments, they are not necessarily aimed at beginners. However, if you want something that will last you for many years and through to advanced-level playing, they are excellent choices.
Whilst the speakers get an upgrade with both models, the FP-90X also has an upgraded action. The PHA-50 hybrid weighted action with wooden keys is one of the closest actions to an acoustic piano in a digital instrument, which is reflected in the price.
(FP-90X)
3. Yamaha P-45
Features
The Yamaha P45 is another great example of one of the best beginner digital pianos for beginners and intermediate players.
It couples a Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) weighted piano action with some well-regarded Yamaha Piano sounds from AWM stereo sampling. The P45 also has dual 6-watt built-in speakers which are useful for home practice.
There are 4 reverbs to simulate different rooms and acoustics, and crucially, there are also 4 levels of touch sensitivity. This is a useful feature for beginners and children who are learning to play on a heavily weighted action for the first time.
You also get a few basic yet useful features such as sound layering, fine-tuning the sounds, and transposing. Layering is something that most models at this price point will offer and is useful for covering popular songs that use piano with strings for example.
The P45 comes with a music rest and a sustain pedal as standard. There is an included USB port for connecting to external devices and using the P45 as a MIDI controller.
Yamaha designed the P45 to be an instrument that is compact and affordable and it is still one of the best digital pianos since its release in 2015. At just 25 pounds (11.5 KG) it is portable and can be easily transported for performances or when moving house.
Sounds
As well as two piano samples you have Rhodes, organ, strings, vibraphone, and harpsichord on board.
There are 10 sounds and 10 demo songs to listen to and learn if you wish. The P45 has 64-note polyphony which won’t run out unless you play very complex pieces or when using the layered sounds.
Conclusion
- Great sounds that beginners need
- Sleek and simple design
- Dual 6W speakers
- Low Weight – 11.5 KG (25 pounds)
You may find a Yamaha P45-B or P71 sold online from retailers such as Amazon. These are the same model with a different name.
4. Yamaha P-125
Features
The Yamaha P125 is one of the best beginner digital pianos as it has a realistic piano sound and feel. The Yamaha Pure CF Sound Engine accurately reproduces the sound of a 9-foot concert grand piano.
The 2-way 7-watt speaker system reproduces a wide piano sound by pointing the sound both above and below the instrument.
Uniquely, the P-125 also features a table-top EQ feature which allows for the best possible acoustics whilst the piano is placed on a table rather than a piano stand.
This instrument is lightweight and portable (11.8 KG), making it easy to move around and set up in different locations.
The P-125 has various built-in features and connectivity options, such as Bluetooth MIDI and USB MIDI to connect to a PC and DAW.
Sounds
The P-125 has 192-note polyphony and 24 sounds. There are also 21 sample songs and 50 piano songs to learn from and listen to.
The Yamaha P-125 sound banks are a noticeable improvement over the P-45, and the significantly increased polyphony allows you to layer sounds and still perform complex pieces.
APPS
The P-125 features several compatible Apps from Yamaha that increase the functionality of the instrument.
- Smart Pianist App lets you control several features such as the selected sound and tempo selection. You can also save your favorite settings and quickly recall them anytime, and instantly find chords from any song on your iPhone or iPad.
- Visual Performer App: ‘Allows you to graphically visualize your musical performance by connecting keyboards, drums, or other musical instruments to their device. The selected graphic animation plays and changes in time with the pitch and intensity.
- My Music Recorder: An App for music recording your compositions and performances.
- Piano Diary: A free Core MIDI application designed to easily record, archive, and share your daily piano performances.
Conclusion
- 192 note polyphony
- Lightweight design – 11.8 KG (26 pounds)
- 4 useful Apps
- Two-way dual 7-watt speaker system
- Tabletop EQ feature
Again, there are two upgraded versions of the P series from Yamaha, similar to the FP series from Roland.
The P-515 is a more complete instrument than the P-125 with far better speakers, and the P-S500 (smart piano) is the newest in the P series lineup. Check out the Yamaha Website to find out more about Yamaha’s best beginner digital pianos.
5. Casio Privia PX-S1100
Features
This digital piano has a compact and sleek design, making it a great option for those with limited space. It is lightweight and portable at only 11.2 KG (24.6 pounds) and features a touch screen and USB connectivity.
One unique feature is that this instrument will run on mains power and also on 6 AA batteries. This is something that you do not find on stage or digital pianos, but Casio managed to make it possible.
The Dual 8 Watt speakers bring the sounds in the Privia S1100 to life for home practice, and the smart-scaled hammer-action keyboard with simulated ebony-ivory key textures exudes quality.
Another unique feature of the Privia is the ‘beautiful polished top panel design with illuminated touch sensor controls’.
Other digital and stage pianos opt for matte black finishes, which helps the Privia to stand out and look sleek on stage and at home.
The S1100 also has WU-BT10 Bluetooth audio, MIDI port and USB audio recording, and MIDI file playback, and requires no drivers or installation.
Sounds
The Privia PX-S1100 features 18 Instrument samples including the ‘stunning German concert grand piano with enhanced resonance’.
The morphing air sound generation helps to recreate natural and authentic-sounding pianos, as does the string resonance, damper resonance, and key action noise.
There are also 4 distinct reverbs included, as well as 2 surround effects, 4 chorus effects, and brilliance.
With 192-note polyphony, you can rest assured that you are buying a quality instrument that will last you for many years as you improve your skills and take on more complex music. It is undoubtedly one of the best beginner digital pianos available in 2023.
Apps
The PX-S1000 allows you to connect to a variety of apps and software for lessons and performances, such as the free Casio Music Space for both iOS and Android (Google Play)
Conclusion
This is an excellent contender in the beginner digital piano category and competes nicely with the Yamaha P125 and Roland FP series. The differences are mainly in the sounds themselves, and which ones you prefer will be down to personal taste.
- Light Weight – 11.2 KG (24.6 pounds)
- Great speakers (dual 8 Watt)
- Great ‘bread and butter sounds’ – pianos, EPs, and organs
An upgraded version of the S1100 is available – the S3100. There are many other instruments in the Casio Privia Line, but the PX-S3100 is the next step up in terms of quality and price.
6. Casio Privia PX-S3100
Features
The Casio PX-S3100 is a digital piano that boasts a sleek design, advanced features, and high-quality sound.
It is a perfect blend of style and substance, making it an excellent choice for musicians of all levels. Let’s take a closer look at the key features of the Casio PX-S3100 and what makes it a great instrument.
Design
One of the most striking features of the Casio PX-S3100 is the design. It has a slim profile like its cheaper sibling, the S1100.
This makes the S3100 easy to transport and store and gives it a modern and stylish look. The keyboard is full-sized, with 88 weighted keys that provide a realistic playing experience.
The Casio PX-S3100 is also very user-friendly. All tones can be accessed using the dedicated touch-screen sound selection buttons on the front panel.
The touch screen is something unusual about the Casio Privias, as are the sleek shiny front panels which help the Privias to stand out on stage.
This Privia has a split and layer function, a metronome with tempo, and Bluetooth for connecting to smart devices, so you can practice along to your backing tracks for example.
There are dual-watt speakers onboard and yet incredibly, the whole package only weighs 11.4 KG!
Connections
The S3100 has USB to Host allowing you to use it as a MIDI controller keyboard with DAW software, and 2 headphone outputs.
Sounds
The Casio PX-S3100 uses Casio’s proprietary AiR sound engine to produce high-quality piano sounds that are realistic and dynamic.
There are a whopping 700 sounds onboard the S3100 in total, which allows you to get very creative with composing and recording your music from home.
There is also 192 polyphony, and unusually, a pitch bend wheel. The sound engine also includes a range of effects, including reverb and chorus, which can be used to enhance the sound and create a more immersive playing experience.
Conclusion
- Sleek and modern design with shiny body and touchscreen buttons
- Very Low weight at only 11.4 KG
- 192 Polyphony
- Great sounds (700 tones in total)
There are several other options in the Casio Privia line of instruments. To see the full list of their best beginner digital pianos, as well as intermediate and advanced instruments, visit the Casio Website.
7. Korg D1
The Korg D1 is a highly acclaimed instrument and one. of the best beginner digital pianos. It boasts a blend of high-quality sound samples and advanced features.
It is a compact and lightweight digital stage piano that boasts a sleek design and a powerful sound engine that represents exceptional value for money.
Features
The Korg D1 is an 88-key digital piano that weighs just 16 KG (35 pounds), making it a highly portable instrument.
The piano has a black matte finish that gives it a professional look, and the keys are designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano with the RH3 (Real Weighted Hammer Action 3) keybed.
One thing to note with this instrument is that it does not come with onboard speakers. These are omitted from the D1, which helps to keep its weight down.
This means you will be using headphones to practice unless you have a keyboard amp, studio monitors, or a PA system at home. It goes to show that the D1 was designed with stage use in mind, and as a stage piano, the D1 shines.
The Korg D1 also includes a metronome, which can be adjusted to different tempos and time signatures.
This is a basic piano design without bells and whistles. If you are looking for some good sounds and a good weighted action, then the Korg D1 might be exactly what you are after.
Sounds
The D1 showcases some of the best pianos, electric pianos, and organs that Korg has to offer.
Specifically, this instrument uses high-quality samples of some of the world’s best acoustic pianos, including German, Italian, and Japanese grand pianos. There are 30 tones in total and 120 note polyphony.
The D1 is a highly capable instrument that is suitable for a broad range of musical styles. It has unique and accurate sounds, especially in the piano and EP categories, due to the stereo PCM sound generation, damper resonance, and key-off simulation.
This piano also comes with a range of effects, including reverb, chorus, and brilliance. The reverb effect is particularly impressive, as it simulates the natural sound of a concert hall, giving your performance a truly professional sound.
Connectivity
The Korg D1 comes with a range of connectivity options, including MIDI In/Out, and audio output. The MIDI In/Out allows you to connect the piano to other MIDI devices, such as synthesizers.
The audio output allows you to connect the piano to external amplifiers or speakers, making it ideal for live performances.
Conclusion
- Well-regarded RH3 Action
- Manageable weight at 16 KG (35 Pounds)
- No Speakers!
- MIDI compatible – can be used as a MIDI controller keyboard.
For a more in-depth review of the Korg D1, check out the following article:
Korg D1 Full Review: The Best Budget Digital Piano?
8. Korg B2
Features
The Korg B2 has a sleek and modern design and is available in black or white finishes. It features a slim profile that makes it easy to transport and store. The keyboard is full-sized, with 88 weighted keys, providing a natural playing experience.
Unlike the Kord D1, the B2 is more suited to home practice, with its dual 15-watt speaker system. It is also far heavier at 21 KG (46 pounds).
There are 3 velocity curves to fine-tune your playing experience, and can also be used as a MIDI controller thanks to its dedicated USB MIDI port.
The B2 has a split feature, allowing you to divide the keyboard into two sections so that different sounds can be played simultaneously with the left and right hands. This is useful for playing duets or for creating complex arrangements.
This is a very beautiful-looking instrument, especially when bought as a bundle with its matching wooden frame and piano stool. If you are looking for an instrument that will level up your home decor, the B2 is an excellent choice.
Sounds
The B2 uses Korg’s proprietary sound engine to produce high-quality piano sounds that are realistic and dynamic. There is a range of other instrument sounds, including electric pianos, organs, and strings.
There are 12 sounds included in all, and they can be accessed using the dedicated sound selection buttons on the front panel, making it easy to switch between different sounds while playing.
The sound engine also includes a range of effects, including reverb and chorus, which can be used to enhance the sound and create a more immersive playing experience.
With 192-note polyphony, you are prepared for complex pieces of music.
Conclusion
- Great sounding Pianos and EPs
- Looks stunning at home or in the studio
- Room-filling sound with the dual 15 W speakers
- 21 KG (46 pounds)
- Excellent value
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Conclusion
As you can now tell, there are several options for beginner digital pianos and stage pianos, all competing at similar price points.
If you have the chance, you should check out as many pianos on this list as you can at your local music store, to compare their features.
