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Looking to make a piano purchase but overwhelmed by the different options available? It can be tricky to understand how pianos, keyboards and digital pianos differ, and which one is the best fit for you.
Whilst acoustic pianos are the classic choice, boasting a rich, natural sound, keyboards and digital pianos offer benefits for some players, especially those seeking a more portable and budget-friendly instrument.
This guide will take you through the key features of pianos and keyboards, outlining the main distinctions and providing advice to help you make your choice.
What is an acoustic piano?
An acoustic piano is the quintessential piano, featuring 88 keys and creating sound through the action of vibrating springs. They come in two main varieties: upright pianos, known for their vertical design and more compact size, and grand pianos with horizontal strings and the greatest sound potential.
Acoustic pianos offer a beautiful sound that digital instruments struggle to replicate; their construction is also generally more robust than digital pianos, meaning they can last for generations if well-maintained. The ideal player for an acoustic piano would be someone who prioritises a rich, natural sound and a genuine playing experience. This might include professional pianists, teachers and advanced players, particularly those drawn to jazz and classical music.
However, an acoustic piano is a significant investment and is simply not feasible for many players. It’s also important to consider that they require regular tuning and take up a considerable amount of floor space. Pianists with smaller living areas or less tolerant neighbours may benefit from a digital instrument.
How does an acoustic piano work?
Acoustic pianos have a web of strings, normally muted by dampers. When you press a key on the instrument, a hammer is triggered which strikes a specific string; the damper lifts momentarily and the string vibrates. The harder you press, the stronger the hammer strike, causing the string to vibrate more intensely and producing a louder sound. Finally, when you release the key, the damper returns to its post which silences the string.
What is a digital piano?
Digital pianos are designed to capture the experience of playing an acoustic piano, but using technology to offer more versatility.
Higher-end models will incorporate what’s known as a weighted key action. This technology simulates the resistance of an acoustic piano by incorporating small weights within each key. The result is a more realistic playing experience that allows pianists to develop proper technique. For this reason, we’d recommend that even the most beginner piano players learn on a weighted instrument, to establish a strong foundation from the start.
As digital pianos do not use strings to create sound, they are smaller and more cost-effective than an acoustic piano. They also require very minimal upkeep, requiring no tuning and only needing to be kept clean and dry. Digital pianos have the advantage of volume control - with adjustable volume and compatibility with headphones, you can practice at any hour. Beyond the classic piano sound, they offer a huge range of additional instruments and effects, making them a great choice for music producers and performers.
How does a digital piano work?
Digital pianos produce sound through a built-in synthesizer which can generate an array of digital tones. When you press a key on a digital piano, a sensor detects the key press and transmits this information to the synthesizer. The synth retrieves the corresponding digital piano sound sample, which is then converted into an analog signal and amplified through the piano’s speakers. This process allows for a more compact design and makes digital pianos a convenient and more cost-effective alternative to acoustic pianos.
What is a keyboard?
For aspiring pianists, keyboards often serve as a stepping stone. Their more compact size (typically 61 or 76 keys compared to a piano's 88) and affordability make them ideal for beginners to learn the basics. They would also offer advantages to a more seasoned musician seeking a versatile instrument; like digital pianos, keyboards allow you to switch between instrument sounds with the touch of a button. They are also extremely convenient, being the most portable option and requiring no maintenance at all.
Whilst some keyboards offer weighted keys, they prioritise offering a
a versatile and affordable alternative, rather than replicating the exact feel of an acoustic piano. This is where they differ from digital pianos which are focused on creating a realistic sound and feel.
How do keyboards work?
Keyboards create sound in much the same way as a digital piano but use a “spring action” for the keys, resulting in a much lighter feel compared to the weighted keys of a piano. This means there’s minimal resistance when pressing down the keys, making them ideal for young children. However, a potential drawback is that this lighter key action makes it more challenging to achieve the dynamics and expressiveness possible on a piano. So, whilst keyboards offer an accessible way to create music, the lighter key action might be limiting for more advanced players.
Playing a keyboard often uses a technique known as “keyboard style”. You start by selecting a rhythm or drum beat, then play chords with your left hand, and add the melody with your right hand.
Can you learn piano on a keyboard?
You can absolutely learn on a keyboard - they offer a budget-friendly option for people looking to get started. For the best learning experience look for a keyboard with 88 weighted keys, this will allow you to play the entire range of notes and develop good technique. It is also a good idea to opt for a keyboard with a sustain pedal for greater expression.
Whilst learning piano on an acoustic piano isn’t always feasible, students planning on playing long-term would benefit from an acoustic piano. They provide an unmatched sound and responsiveness, allowing for better control and depth in your playing.
Shop pianos and keyboards at Rimmers Music
Rimmers Music is one of the oldest and largest musical instrument retailers in the UK and we stock a comprehensive range of pianos and keyboards from the world’s most esteemed manufacturers. Before making your final decision on a new piano, we strongly recommend trying a few different models. You can find everything from a beginner’s keyboard to a top of the range acoustic grand at our Leyland showroom.
We are also proud to offer piano tuition to students of all ability levels. Find out more about our Rimmers Music Schools, located in Scotland and the North of England here.