10 Best Cheap Piano Keyboards 2026 in the United States

The Yamaha P225B is an 88-key weighted action digital piano that stands out for its authentic piano feel thanks to the Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) keyboard action, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned players. Its CFX Premium Grand Piano Voice provides a rich sound that captures the essence of a concert grand piano, which is impressive for a keyboard in this price range. The inclusion of Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM) adds depth to the sound, mimicking the complex resonance of real piano strings, enhancing the playing experience further.

Portability is another strong point; weighing in at just 25.4 pounds, it’s manageable for moving around, making it a good choice for those who may need to transport it frequently, like students or performers. The Half-Damper Pedal feature allows for more nuanced control over sustain, which is great for expressive playing.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the compact design is space-efficient, some may find the build quality feels less robust compared to higher-end models. Additionally, as a digital piano, it might not provide the same tactile response as an acoustic piano, which could be a concern for some traditionalists. Though it offers a headphone jack for quieter practice, it lacks built-in speakers that match the quality of its piano sounds. The Smart Pianist app enhances the user experience by offering more control and additional features, but it requires a smartphone and may be a learning curve for less tech-savvy users.

The Yamaha P143B is a solid choice for beginners and anyone looking for an affordable digital piano. With its 88 weighted keys, it mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, which is a big plus for those wanting to develop proper playing techniques. The sound quality is impressive, featuring 10 unique voices that include sampled tones from Yamaha’s grand pianos, offering a rich and full sound experience. This can enhance your practice sessions and performances alike.

Portability is another strength of the P143B, thanks to its slim and lightweight design, making it easy to transport for home practice or gigs. The built-in speakers are convenient, though you might want to consider using headphones for a more immersive experience, especially in quieter settings. The inclusion of accessories like a music rest and sustain pedal adds value, making it ready to play right out of the box.

While the polyphony is adequate for most beginner needs, advanced players might find it limiting during more complex pieces. Additionally, the sound can lack some depth compared to higher-end models, particularly for nuanced performances. The built-in features, though user-friendly, are somewhat basic and may not satisfy those looking for extensive functionality.

The Yamaha P45B is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable digital piano with a realistic playing experience. It features 88 fully weighted keys with Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action, which feels heavier on the low notes and lighter on the high notes, mimicking an acoustic piano well. This makes it a good fit for beginners and intermediate players who want a true piano touch without spending a lot.

Sound quality is decent, thanks to 10 different voices, including sampled Yamaha grand piano tones, which add variety though it lacks the depth of higher-end models. The dual mode lets you layer two sounds, like piano and strings, which can make practice and performance more enjoyable. It is fairly portable at about 25 pounds, so you can move it around if needed, although it’s not ultra-light. Additional features include built-in speakers, a sustain pedal, headphone jack, USB connectivity, and split mode, all useful for practice and versatility.

If you're looking for advanced features like extensive sound libraries, touch sensitivity customization, or very high polyphony counts, this model might feel basic. The Yamaha P45B provides a comfortable and authentic piano feel with respectable sound quality, making it a practical choice for those on a budget who want a full-sized, weighted keyboard.