10 Best Weighted Keyboards 2026 in the United States

The Yamaha Arius YDP165R is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a weighted digital piano, particularly those who value a realistic playing experience. With its 88 graded hammer keys, it replicates the feel of an acoustic piano, making it suitable for beginners and experienced players alike. The synthetic ivory tops on the keys enhance grip and comfort, which is particularly beneficial during long practice sessions.

One of the standout features is the CFX Concert Grand Piano sound, delivered through advanced VRM Lite technology, ensuring a rich and authentic audio experience. The built-in speakers provide powerful sound, complemented by three piano-style pedals that enable nuanced performance. For those who enjoy learning, the variety of built-in songs and compatibility with the Smart Pianist app offer great educational value.

On the connectivity front, the YDP165R includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and USB options, allowing for easy integration with other devices and apps, which can enhance your playing or recording experience. The piano is quite heavy at 92.6 pounds, making it less portable if you intend to move it frequently. The price point may also be on the higher side for casual players or those just starting. Additionally, while the built-in sounds are impressive, some users might eventually desire a broader range of tones for different musical styles.

The Yamaha P145BT is a well-rounded 88-key digital piano that brings the feel of a real acoustic piano right to your home or on the go. Thanks to its weighted keys with Graded Hammer Compact action, it offers a natural touch that mimics the resistance and response of traditional piano keys—great for beginners and more advanced players alike. The sound quality stands out with a rich, full tone that captures the essence of a grand piano’s resonance, helping you enjoy a satisfying playing experience.

Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to move around, which is ideal if you want to practice in different rooms or even take it with you while traveling. Built-in speakers provide clear sound without needing extra equipment, and the inclusion of a sustain foot switch adds to the authentic piano feel. One handy feature is the Bluetooth connectivity that lets you stream music wirelessly and play along with your favorite songs, enhancing practice sessions and making learning more fun. The piano also supports useful apps for practice and recording, making it a modern, user-friendly instrument.

Customer reviews are excellent, highlighting satisfaction with the instrument. However, the P145BT does not specify polyphony (the number of notes it can play simultaneously), which could be important if you plan on playing complex pieces or layering sounds extensively. Additionally, there are no built-in rhythms or extensive sound banks, which might limit variety compared to some keyboards. For those seeking an authentic piano touch in a portable, stylish package with solid sound and easy connectivity, the Yamaha P145BT offers a straightforward, quality piano feel without extra bells and whistles.

The Yamaha P-143B is a solid choice for beginners and even intermediate players seeking a weighted keyboard experience. One of its standout features is the weighted keys that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, enhancing your playing technique. The premium grand piano sound is impressive, with 10 unique voices that provide a rich and resonant experience, making practice sessions enjoyable. The compact design is another highlight, as it allows for easy portability, whether you're at home or traveling. Built-in speakers provide convenience, although they may lack the depth of sound found in higher-end models.

While this piano offers a variety of sounds, the polyphony is not specified, which might limit the complexity of the music you can play without notes dropping out. The connectivity options are somewhat basic, with USB output but lacking advanced features such as Bluetooth, which could enhance its usability with modern devices and apps. Additionally, the lightweight design, while portable, may not feel as sturdy as some heavier models.

The P-143B is well-suited for those who prioritize a realistic piano feel and sound quality in a lightweight package. It’s a great option for home practice and can also serve well for small performances or traveling musicians. However, if you're looking for advanced features and extensive connectivity options, you might want to explore other models in the weighted keyboard category.