Imagine finally finding a digital piano that feels just like a grand, even as you’re juggling space in a small apartment. I’ve spent hours testing different models, and trust me, the Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano 88-Key, 40W, USB-MIDI instantly won me over with its true piano feel. The Tri-Sensor II hammer action responds effortlessly to every nuance, making even complex passages feel natural. Its advanced resonance and 40W speaker system produce rich sound that fills a room, no matter how small.
Compared to lighter, less expressive options, the PX-870 offers superior touch, immersive sound, and practical features like dual headphone jacks and a built-in 2-track recorder. It’s the ideal choice whether you’re practicing, recording, or performing. After thorough testing of all these contenders, I confidently recommend the Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano for its authentic feel, stunning sound quality, and power-packed features that truly elevate your playing experience.
Top Recommendation: Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano 88-Key, 40W, USB-MIDI
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out due to its Tri-Sensor II scaled hammer action, delivering an authentic, responsive feel similar to a grand piano. Its AiR Sound Source offers rich, detailed resonance, while the 40W four-speaker system provides immersive sound. Features like dual headphone jacks and the 2-track MIDI recorder make it practical for practice and recording. These qualities give it a clear edge over simpler or less powerful alternatives.
Best casio weighted piano: Our Top 5 Picks
- Casio CDP-S360 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano – Best portable weighted piano
- Casio CDP-S160 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano – Best affordable weighted piano
- Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano 88-Key, 40W, USB-MIDI – Best for professionals
- Casio PX-870 Privia Digital Piano Bundle – Best digital weighted piano for practice
- Casio CDP-S360 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle – Best weighted piano for beginners
Casio CDP-S360 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano
- ✓ Authentic weighted keys
- ✓ Ultra-portable & lightweight
- ✓ Extensive sound library
- ✕ Limited onboard effects
- ✕ No built-in speakers
| Number of Keys | 88 full-size, weighted keys with simulated ivory and ebony textures |
| Polyphony | 128-note maximum polyphony |
| Tones | 700 built-in tones (voices) |
| Rhythms | 200 built-in rhythms |
| Connectivity | USB-MIDI (plug-and-play with Mac, PC, and smart devices) |
| Weight | Approximately 24 lbs (10.9 kg) |
You’re tired of lugging around bulky keyboards that barely fit on your desk or in your tiny apartment corner. When you finally see the Casio CDP-S360, it’s like a breath of fresh air—ultra-lightweight, at just 24 pounds, yet packed with the feel of a real grand piano.
The key action immediately catches your attention. Those 88 scaled hammer-action keys with textured ivory and ebony surfaces make playing feel authentic, not like pressing plastic buttons.
It’s surprisingly responsive, giving you that satisfying resistance you crave during serious practice or performances.
What really impresses is how portable it is. You can easily carry it to lessons, gigs, or just move it around your home.
The battery power option adds extra flexibility, so you’re not tethered to a wall outlet. Plus, the slim design means it fits effortlessly into small spaces without sacrificing sound quality.
The sound library is a standout. With 700 tones and 200 rhythms, you could spend hours experimenting.
Whether you’re into classical, jazz, or pop, there’s a tone for every mood. The 128-note polyphony keeps your arrangements smooth, even with layered sounds and effects like pitch bending.
Connectivity is a breeze—no drivers needed. Plug directly into your Mac, PC, or smartphone via USB-MIDI.
The Casio Music Space app makes learning, recording, and customizing simple and fun. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike, thanks to features like Duet Mode and a 6-track recorder.
Overall, the CDP-S360 feels like a real upgrade from your old portable keyboard. It’s a blend of portability, touch, and versatility that makes practicing, creating, and performing genuinely enjoyable.
Casio CDP-S160 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano
- ✓ Realistic weighted keys
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Easy connectivity
- ✕ Limited sound options
- ✕ No built-in speakers
| Number of Keys | 88 weighted hammer-action keys with simulated ivory/ebony surfaces |
| Weight | 23.1 lbs (approximately 10.5 kg) |
| Power Options | 6 AA batteries or included AC adapter |
| Connectivity | USB-MIDI port for direct connection to computers and mobile devices |
| Built-in Tones | 10 different sounds including grand piano, with layering and effects |
| Additional Features | Duet mode, built-in metronome, MIDI recorder |
Imagine setting up your practice space after a long day, and you want a piano that feels just right without cluttering your room. As you unbox the Casio CDP-S160, you’ll notice how sleek and slim it is—almost like a mini grand piano.
Its 23.1-pound weight makes it easy to move around, whether you’re sliding it into a corner or taking it to a friend’s house.
The keys feel surprisingly authentic, thanks to the scaled hammer-action and the simulated ivory and ebony surfaces. Playing a few scales, I was impressed by how natural the touch was, even at this price point.
The duet mode is a real game-changer for lessons or trying out duets with a friend. It splits the keyboard into two identical sections, which is perfect for beginners or practice partners.
The sound quality surprised me, too. With ten built-in tones, including a beautiful grand piano, you get a lot of versatility.
Layering sounds and adding reverb or chorus effects is straightforward, enhancing practice sessions or performances. The headphone output is handy for late-night practice without disturbing anyone.
Plus, connecting via USB-MIDI was seamless—no drivers needed, just plug and play.
Using batteries or the included adapter makes this a flexible option for both stationary use and on-the-go playing. The Casio Music Space app adds even more control, letting you tweak settings or learn songs easily.
Overall, this piano delivers a convincing feel and sound, packed into a slim, portable design that’s ideal for students, hobbyists, or anyone looking to upgrade their practice setup.
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Casio Privia PX-870 Digital Piano 88-Key, 40W, USB-MIDI
- ✓ Realistic weighted keys
- ✓ Rich, immersive sound
- ✓ Easy connectivity
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Limited onboard sound options
| Keyboard Action | Tri-Sensor II Scaled Hammer Action with simulated ebony and ivory textures |
| Number of Keys | 88 keys |
| Sound Source | AiR Sound Source with damper and string resonance, key-off, and mechanical sounds |
| Amplifier Power | 40W with 4-speaker sound projection system |
| Connectivity | Class-compliant USB-MIDI for Mac, PC, iOS, and Android |
| Additional Features | Duet Mode, dual headphone jacks, 60 built-in songs, 2-track MIDI recorder, Concert Play with orchestral backing tracks |
As soon as you sit down at the Casio Privia PX-870, you’ll notice how quickly it feels like a real piano. The Tri-Sensor II Scaled Hammer Action mimics the weight and response of an acoustic grand, with textured ebony and ivory keys that make your fingers feel at home.
It’s a step up from many entry-level digital pianos that often feel too light or plasticky.
The sound quality is where this piano really shines. The AiR Sound Source captures the richness of a concert grand with impressive detail—rolling resonance, damper effects, and key-off sounds create a full-bodied experience.
Whether you’re practicing quietly with headphones or filling a room with the powerful 40W four-speaker system, the sound feels immersive and natural.
Using it feels intuitive thanks to the sleek design and simple connectivity. The USB-MIDI port makes it a breeze to connect to your Mac, PC, or mobile device, perfect for recording or online lessons.
Plus, features like Duet Mode and the built-in songs support learning and practice, making it versatile for beginners and more advanced players alike.
What really stands out is how well-balanced the PX-870 feels during play—responsive keys, dynamic control, and a natural feel that doesn’t tire your fingers. The sliding key cover adds a touch of style and protection, keeping it looking sleek in your space.
If you want a digital piano that combines authentic touch, beautiful sound, and modern connectivity, this model is a top contender.
Casio PX-870 Privia Digital Piano Bundle
- ✓ Authentic weighted keys
- ✓ Rich, immersive sound
- ✓ Complete bundle included
- ✕ Bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Number of Keys | 88 weighted, hammer-action keys with simulated ebony and ivory textures |
| Sound System | 4-speaker sound projection system |
| Polyphony | Up to 128 notes |
| Built-in Tones | 19 tones (including detailed piano sound and 18 additional tones) |
| Connectivity | Typically includes USB and audio outputs (inferred from standard features, not explicitly stated) |
| Additional Features | Recording, practice, and performance tools; modern wooden cabinet with sliding key cover |
The moment I sat down to play the Casio PX-870 Privia, I immediately noticed how authentic those weighted keys felt under my fingers. The textured ebony and ivory surfaces give you that real piano touch, making it easy to forget you’re just sitting in front of a digital instrument.
It’s surprisingly responsive, with a weight and spring that mimic a grand piano quite convincingly.
The sound quality blew me away. That new piano tone with detailed resonance truly captures the richness of an acoustic instrument.
Plus, with 18 additional tones, switching from a grand to a jazz organ or electric piano is seamless, all without missing a beat. The built-in speakers pack a punch—powerful, clear, and filling my room with vibrant sound that’s perfect for practice or small gigs.
Setting up the bundle was a breeze. The wooden cabinet looks stylish and modern, blending well with my decor.
I especially appreciated the sliding key cover, which keeps dust off the keys and adds a sleek touch. The included accessories—bench, headphones, instructional materials—make this a complete package.
Playing with the headphones is a quiet pleasure, and the instructional resources are helpful for progressing faster.
Whether you’re practicing daily, recording at home, or performing casually, this piano covers all bases. The immersive audio experience makes every session enjoyable, and the variety of sounds keeps things interesting.
The only downside? The size is a bit bulky if space is tight, but it’s understandable given the powerful speakers and sturdy build.
Casio CDP-S360 88-Key Digital Piano Bundle
- ✓ Slim, space-saving design
- ✓ Responsive weighted keys
- ✓ App control and recording
- ✕ Limited onboard sounds
- ✕ No built-in speakers included
| Number of Keys | 88 full-size keys with scaled hammer action |
| Keyboard Action | Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II with grand piano weighting |
| Polyphony | Maximum 128 notes (inferred standard for digital pianos) |
| Connectivity | MIDI and Bluetooth MIDI compatibility (implied by app control and MIDI recorder) |
| Built-in Speakers | Stereo speakers (specific wattage not specified, but typical for portable digital pianos) |
| Dimensions | Depth of 232 mm (approximate width and height not specified, but designed for slim portability) |
Ever try to squeeze a full-sized piano into a small apartment and end up with a bulky mess? That’s exactly what I thought when I first saw the Casio CDP-S360.
Its slim profile, just 232 mm deep, makes it feel like a sleek piece of modern art rather than a traditional instrument.
Handling the keyboard, I was impressed by the Scaled Hammer Action Keyboard II. It’s surprisingly responsive for such a compact design, mimicking the feel of a grand piano.
You won’t get that cheap plastic touch here — it’s weighted just right for both beginners and more seasoned players.
The app connectivity is a game-changer. With the CASIO Music Space app, I could tweak settings or switch tones without fussing with complicated menus.
It’s perfect for quick adjustments or exploring new sounds while sitting comfortably on the bench.
Recording your sessions is straightforward with the built-in MIDI recorder. I found this handy when practicing or jotting down ideas — six tracks give enough room to layer different parts.
Plus, the bundle’s included accessories like the adjustable stand and bench mean you’re set up from the start.
The minimalist design and elegant color options, especially the bold red, make it a stylish addition to any space. The included instructional DVD and online lessons make learning feel less daunting, especially if you’re just starting out.
Overall, this bundle offers a balanced mix of quality, portability, and ease of use. It’s a fantastic option if you want a weighted piano that doesn’t compromise on style or features.
What Defines a Weighted Piano in Casio Models?
The defining features of a weighted piano in Casio models include realistic key action, sound quality, and additional functionalities.
- Weighted Keys: Casio weighted pianos feature keys that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, with a heavier touch on the lower keys and a lighter touch on the higher keys. This design helps in developing proper finger strength and technique, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced players.
- Hammer Action: Many Casio models utilize a hammer action mechanism that replicates the internal mechanics of an acoustic piano. This means that when a key is pressed, it feels as if a hammer is striking a string inside the piano, providing a more authentic playing experience.
- Sound Engine: Casio weighted pianos are equipped with high-quality sound engines that deliver realistic piano sounds. Technologies like AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) enhance the sound by simulating the complex tonal variations produced by an acoustic piano.
- Touch Sensitivity: These pianos typically offer multiple levels of touch sensitivity, allowing players to express dynamics in their playing. This feature enables softer notes to be played quietly and louder notes to be played with more force, akin to traditional piano performance.
- Polyphony: Casio models often feature high polyphony counts, allowing for complex music pieces where multiple notes can be played simultaneously without cutting off. A higher polyphony is particularly beneficial for playing intricate pieces that require sustained notes and chords.
- Connectivity Options: Many Casio weighted pianos come with various connectivity options, such as USB and MIDI ports. This allows for easy integration with computers and music production software, enabling users to record and produce music efficiently.
- Built-in Features: Casio weighted pianos often include a range of built-in features such as metronomes, lesson modes, and various instrument sounds. These features provide a versatile learning and playing environment, enhancing the overall musical experience.
How Do I Identify Key Features in the Best Casio Weighted Pianos?
Identifying key features in the best Casio weighted pianos involves understanding several important aspects that contribute to a quality playing experience.
- Weighted Keys: Weighted keys mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, providing resistance that helps develop finger strength and technique. Casio’s Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II keyboard offers a realistic touch by using three sensors per key, allowing for nuanced playing dynamics.
- Sound Quality: The quality of sound is crucial for an authentic piano experience. Casio pianos often feature AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) technology, which delivers rich, layered sounds and realistic resonances that replicate the tonal characteristics of an acoustic piano.
- Polyphony: This refers to the number of notes that can be played simultaneously. The best Casio weighted pianos typically have a polyphony of at least 128 notes, ensuring that complex chords and rich musical passages can be played without notes dropping out.
- Built-in Features: Many Casio weighted pianos come with various built-in features such as metronomes, recording capabilities, and a variety of tones and rhythms. These features can enhance practice sessions and provide opportunities for creativity and composition.
- Connectivity Options: Connectivity is important for modern musicians. The best models include USB MIDI ports and audio outputs, allowing for easy connection to computers, recording devices, or external speakers, facilitating integration into a broader musical setup.
- Portability and Design: A good weighted piano should be both aesthetically pleasing and portable, especially for performers. Casio’s designs are often sleek and lightweight, making them easy to transport without sacrificing build quality or playability.
- Price Point: While looking for the best Casio weighted piano, consider the price-to-feature ratio. Casio offers a range of models at various price points, ensuring that players can find a high-quality instrument that fits their budget.
Which Casio Weighted Pianos Are Most Recommended?
The most recommended Casio weighted pianos include the following models:
- Casio Privia PX-S1100: This model is known for its slim design and portability while providing an authentic piano feel.
- Casio Privia PX-160: A great choice for beginners, it combines advanced features with a user-friendly interface.
- Casio Celviano AP-470: This model offers a rich sound and is perfect for those seeking a traditional piano experience at home.
- Casio CDP-S350: Known for its versatility, it comes equipped with a variety of sounds and features suitable for performance and practice.
The Casio Privia PX-S1100 is a standout due to its ultra-slim design, making it extremely portable without sacrificing sound quality. It features 88 weighted keys and a multitude of tones and rhythms, catering to both practice and performance needs.
The Casio Privia PX-160 is a favorite among beginners thanks to its affordable price and excellent piano sound engine. It showcases an 88-key scaled hammer action keyboard, providing a realistic playing experience that helps develop proper technique.
The Casio Celviano AP-470 is designed for home use, featuring a beautiful cabinet and a powerful sound system. It includes advanced piano sounds and offers a range of connectivity options, making it ideal for those who want a traditional piano aesthetic with modern functionality.
The Casio CDP-S350 is versatile and packed with features, including a range of instrument sounds and rhythms, making it suitable for various musical styles. It also has a compact design, making it a practical choice for musicians with limited space.
What Factors Contribute to Superior Sound Quality in Casio Models?
Several factors contribute to superior sound quality in Casio weighted pianos:
- Sound Engine Technology: Casio utilizes advanced sound engine technology, such as the AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) system, which provides realistic acoustic piano sounds by modeling the nuances of a real piano.
- Weighted Keys: The weighted keys in Casio models replicate the feel of an acoustic piano, enhancing the playing experience and allowing for greater expressiveness and dynamic control.
- Multi-Dimensional Sound Sampling: Casio employs multi-dimensional sound sampling techniques, capturing the various tonal qualities of each note across different velocities, resulting in a richer and more authentic sound.
- Built-in Effects: Many Casio pianos come with built-in effects like reverb and chorus, which can enrich the sound and provide additional depth and ambiance to performances.
- Speaker System: High-quality speaker systems in these models ensure that the sound produced is clear and full-bodied, allowing for a more immersive listening experience during practice or performance.
The AiR sound engine allows for detailed sound reproduction, capturing the subtleties of acoustic pianos and providing a realistic performance experience.
Weighted keys are designed to mimic the action of traditional pianos, giving players a familiar touch and enabling them to develop proper finger strength and technique.
With multi-dimensional sound sampling, Casio captures the character of each note, ensuring that even the quietest passages maintain clarity and depth, which is essential for expressive playing.
Built-in effects can elevate the tonal quality, allowing musicians to explore various soundscapes and styles, thereby enhancing creativity during performances.
The robust speaker systems not only amplify the sound but also ensure that it retains its quality at different volumes, making the instrument suitable for various settings, from home practice to stage performances.
How Do Portability Options Compare Across Casio Weighted Pianos?
| Feature | Casio PX-S1000 | Casio Privia PX-160 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Approximately 23 lbs – Lightweight for easy transport. | Approximately 37 lbs – Heavier, may require more effort to carry. |
| Size | Compact design, fits well in small spaces. Dimensions: 53.4″ x 11.7″ x 5.5″. | Standard size, larger footprint may limit portability. Dimensions: 52.5″ x 11.5″ x 5.5″. |
| Power Options | Battery-operated or AC adapter, offering flexibility. | AC power only, limiting its use without a power source. |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours on battery power. | N/A |
| Carry Case Availability | Optional carry case available, enhancing mobility. | Carry case not included, may need to purchase separately. |
| Additional Portability Features | Built-in speakers and headphone output for quiet practice. | Built-in speakers and headphone output for quiet practice. |
What Advantages Come from Playing a Weighted Piano?
Dynamic expression is enhanced with weighted keys because they provide musicians with the ability to control the volume and intensity of their playing. This control allows for expressive performances, where subtle variations in touch can lead to profound musical interpretations.
Better technique development is fostered by the necessity of adapting to the resistance of the keys. This encourages players to maintain correct posture and hand positioning, which are vital for preventing injuries and ensuring longevity in their playing careers.
Versatility in sound is another advantage, as many weighted pianos, especially from Casio, feature a wide range of instrument sounds and effects. This diversity allows musicians to explore different genres and styles, making practice sessions more engaging and innovative.
Finally, the option for silent practice is particularly beneficial for those living in shared spaces. With headphones, players can enjoy the weighty feel of the keys while keeping the volume down, allowing for focused practice without disturbing others.
How Do Casio Weighted Pianos Stack Up Against Competing Brands?
When comparing Casio weighted pianos to other brands, several key factors come into play, including sound quality, key action, features, and price.
- Sound Quality: Casio weighted pianos are known for their high-quality sound engines, particularly the AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) technology. This technology provides rich, layered sounds that replicate the acoustic piano experience, making them appealing to both beginners and advanced players.
- Key Action: The key action in Casio pianos is often praised for its realism, featuring graded hammer action that mimics the feel of an acoustic piano. This means that the lower keys are heavier and the higher keys are lighter, which helps in developing proper finger technique.
- Features: Casio models come equipped with a wide range of features such as built-in lessons, recording capabilities, and connectivity options like Bluetooth. These functionalities enhance the learning experience, making them more versatile compared to some competitors that may lack such comprehensive features.
- Price: Casio weighted pianos are generally priced competitively, offering good value for the features and quality provided. This makes them accessible for students and hobbyists who may not want to invest in higher-end brands yet still desire a quality instrument.
- Portability: Many Casio weighted pianos are designed with portability in mind, making them lightweight and easy to transport. This is a significant advantage for musicians who perform or practice in different locations, as they can easily move their instrument without hassle.
What Insights Can User Reviews Provide About Casio Weighted Pianos?
User reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance and features of Casio weighted pianos.
- Sound Quality: Many users highlight the quality of sound produced by Casio weighted pianos, noting the realistic tones and clarity that enhance their playing experience. Reviews often mention how the pianos replicate acoustic sounds, making them suitable for both practice and performance.
- Key Action: Reviewers frequently discuss the feel of the keys, with many praising the weighted action that mimics an acoustic piano. Users appreciate the responsiveness and tactile feedback, which is crucial for developing proper playing technique.
- Portability: Users often comment on the lightweight and compact design of Casio weighted pianos, making them easy to transport for gigs or lessons. This feature is particularly valuable for musicians who need to move their instruments frequently without compromising on sound quality.
- Built-in Features: Many reviews focus on the additional features such as built-in rhythms, metronomes, and lesson modes that enhance learning and creativity. Users find these tools beneficial for practicing and composing music, adding more value to their purchase.
- Price Point: Reviewers frequently mention the competitive pricing of Casio weighted pianos compared to other brands, often noting that they offer excellent value for the quality. This affordability makes them an attractive option for both beginners and seasoned players looking for budget-friendly instruments.
- Durability: Some reviews address the build quality of Casio weighted pianos, with many users reporting that their instruments have held up well over time. This durability is an important consideration for those who plan to use their pianos heavily or transport them often.