Three budget-friendly models that truly impress
Digital pianos come in a variety of sizes, capabilities, and price points. We have instruments with black and white keys that range from a couple hundred dollars to over $15,000. Thatâs quite a range to consider when purchasing a digital piano, so in this article weâre going to focus on the best digital pianos under $500. This budget will give any beginner an excellent piano experience while eliminating the size and maintenance of an acoustic piano.
Before we dive into the individual models, letâs establish an important difference between a keyboard and a digital piano. By definition, a digital piano will have 88 hammer-weighted keys. Hammer-weighted keys are a critical component since theyâll be heavier, better replicating the wooden key of an acoustic. This is key for beginners so they build strength, endurance, and dexterity. Conversely, a keyboard or synthesizer will have a much lighter touch, more like a spring-loaded action. That keyboard action will be significantly different than that of an acoustic piano. An example of a keyboard that looks like a digital piano is the Yamaha YPG-535 Portable Grand Keyboard. It does not have weighted keys, but has plenty of other features. Each of the following options are digital pianos and have those important 88 hammer-weighted keys. Here are three of the best digital pianos under $500:
Yamaha P-45 Digital Piano
Starting at $449.99, the Yamaha P-45 is the entry point for digital pianos. Yamaha designed this instrument specifically with the beginner in mind, keeping it simple and straightforward. Weighing about 25 lbs, this piano can be regularly transported to and from lessons, family vacations, church, and more. It has 10 sounds, a metronome, and USB capabilities to easily interface with a home computer that has recording or lesson software. The P-45 has onboard speakers and a headphone option as well. One downside is that it cannot support a triple pedal system, which would become more important as the player progresses.
- Low price point, starting at $449.99
- Weighs 25 lbs for easy transport and storage
- Can easily interface with a home computer via USB
- Onboard speakers (2 x 6 Watts) and headphone option
- Matching stand and upgraded single pedal available
Casio Privia PX-160 Digital Piano
Available in both black and champagne gold for $499, the Casio Privia PX-160 is the replacement of the enormously popular PX-150. The piano alone weighs less than 25 lbs for easy transport. The PX-160 is equipped with a MIDI song recorder, making it simple and quick to record practice. Their sleek design innovations include a compact frame and speakers that project in a variety of environments, from directly against a wall to a classroom. It has 18 sounds, a metronome, and USB connectivity. This piano not only has those onboard speakers, but two headphone outputs.
- Black and champagne gold color options available
- Weighs under 25 lbs for easy transport and storage
- Contains a MIDI song recorder for practice
- Can easily interface with a home computer via USB
- Onboard speakers (2 x 8 Watts) and dual headphone outputs
- Matching stand, triple pedal unit, and upgraded single pedal available
Korg B1 Digital Piano
Korgâs B1 digital piano is available in black and white, starting at $499.99. This piano weighs just over 25 lbs and is very slim for easy storage. Korg has created a truly state-of-the-art speaker system that features an enhanced low end, which makes this instrument sound incredibly realistic. Additional features include 8 sounds, a metronome, and an easy to use partner mode. All of these combine to make this ideal for a piano student.
- Black and white color options available
- Weighs just over 25 lbs for easy transport and storage
- Slim and modern design
- Onboard speakers (2 x 9 Watts) with enhanced low end and headphone options
- Matching stand, triple pedal unit, and upgraded single pedal available
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