10 Best Musical Keyboards 2026 in the United States

The Yamaha P145BT is a well-rounded digital piano that shines for both home practice and travel, thanks to its 88 weighted keys with Graded Hammer Compact action. This means it closely mimics the feel of an acoustic piano, which is great if you want a realistic playing experience. It also offers a rich, grand piano sound that many users find pleasing and natural, enhancing your music-playing enjoyment.

The built-in speakers deliver clear sound without needing extra equipment, and the Bluetooth connectivity is a handy feature for streaming music or using Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app to practice and record. This makes it easy to play along with your favorite songs or track your progress. The slim, lightweight design (just under 25 pounds) makes it easier to move around compared to bulkier digital pianos, which is a plus if you want portability. Included accessories like a music rest and sustain pedal add convenience right out of the box.

While the keyboard is compact, it’s not as feature-packed as some higher-end models that offer more voices or advanced effects. Also, it relies on a corded power source, so battery operation isn’t an option for truly wireless use. The Yamaha P145BT is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate players who want authentic piano touch and sound in a portable package, without needing complex extras.

The Yamaha P143B is an 88-key digital piano designed with beginners in mind, featuring a compact and lightweight structure that makes it portable for home practice or travel. One of its standout strengths is the acoustic piano expression, providing a realistic playing experience with weighted keys that respond to touch sensitivity. This feature is particularly beneficial for novice players looking to develop their skills with a genuine feel akin to an acoustic piano.

Sound quality is a major highlight, boasting a premium grand piano sound with 10 unique voices. Users appreciate the natural resonance and full tones that can elevate practice sessions and performances. The built-in speakers are a convenient addition, allowing for immediate sound output without the need for external equipment.

In terms of connectivity, the P143B includes a USB option, making it easy to connect to various devices, enhancing its versatility. The one-button control and compatibility with the SmartPianist app simplify the user experience, making it easier for those unfamiliar with digital pianos to navigate the features. There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the compact design lends itself to portability, it may sacrifice some sturdiness that might be preferred in a more permanent setup. Additionally, the power source is corded, which might limit where you can play without needing a nearby outlet. The weight of 24.5 pounds is manageable for transport but may be cumbersome for some. The Yamaha P143B is an excellent choice for beginners or casual players who value sound quality and realistic touch in a portable format. It might not replace a full acoustic piano for advanced players but offers a solid solution for home use or on-the-go practice.

The Nord Stage 4 is a powerful and versatile digital stage piano, ideal for musicians who need a reliable instrument for live performances or studio work. With its 88 fully-weighted keys and triple-sensor keybed, it offers a realistic piano feel, which is great for players who seek authentic touch sensitivity. The sound quality is top-notch, boasting three sound engines that include piano, organ, and synthesizer sounds, making it suitable for various musical styles. The organ section is particularly impressive, featuring renowned simulations of classic models like the B3 Tonewheel and Vox, which will delight organ enthusiasts.

A standout feature is the doubled sample memory, allowing you to load a variety of high-quality instrument sounds from the Nord Piano Library. This means you can customize your sound palette extensively, making it adaptable for different performances. The inclusion of a three-layer synth engine enables complex patch creation, which can be appealing for more advanced users looking to explore synth capabilities.

On the downside, the Nord Stage 4 has a few considerations. Its premium build and extensive features come with a higher price point, which may not suit budget-conscious beginners. Additionally, while it is labeled as portable, the 88-key design can be cumbersome to transport compared to smaller, more compact keyboards. The learning curve for mastering all its features may also be steep for novice players who are not familiar with digital synthesizers.