How we test digital pianos and keyboards

At Pianist’s Compass, we take testing seriously. Our goal is to provide accurate, unbiased, and hands-on reviews of digital pianos and keyboards so that pianists of all levels can make informed decisions.

Below, we outline our testing methodology, how we handle out-of-spec products, and the principles that ensure our reviews remain independent and trustworthy.

Test methodology 2.0

Before diving into the technical aspects, we have made several improvements in this second version of our testing methodology. We’ve refined our approach, adjusted our scoring system, and modified some of the evaluation categories to ensure our reviews remain as relevant and useful as possible.

1. Purpose and target audience

Before diving into the technical aspects, we first identify the instrument’s intended use and its target audience. This approach allows us to tailor our evaluations to the specific needs and expectations of potential users.

2. Key factors we evaluate

Every digital piano and keyboard is tested across multiple categories to ensure a comprehensive assessment:

  • Sound quality. The heart of any digital piano is its sound. We assess the realism of piano samples, the quality of sound engines, and the depth of resonance. Polyphony is also a crucial aspect – we check how well the instrument handles layered and complex passages without note dropout. Additionally, we evaluate built-in reverb, sustain simulation, and resonance modeling to determine how close the sound mimics a real acoustic piano.
  • Built-in speakers. A great sound engine is only as good as the speakers that reproduce it. We test speaker power, clarity, stereo imaging, and frequency balance to determine if the instrument provides a full and rich listening experience. Additionally, we analyze how well the speakers perform at different volume levels and whether external amplification improves the overall sound.
  • Keyboard action and feel. A key aspect of digital pianos is how closely they replicate the feel of an acoustic piano. We examine the key weighting, responsiveness, and texture to ensure they provide a natural playing experience. We also test aftertouch, escapement, and sensor technology to determine how the keyboard responds to nuanced dynamics and fast repetitions.
  • Features. Beyond sound and keyboard feel, we analyze the range of built-in voices, rhythms, and effects, as well as recording capabilities, split/layer modes, and educational tools. Instruments aimed at beginners are evaluated for learning functions, while advanced models are tested for performance and compositional tools.
  • In use. The usability of an instrument is crucial. We test how intuitive the interface is, how easy it is to navigate through menus, and how accessible key functions are during performance or practice. We consider whether button layouts, screen readability, and shortcut functions improve the overall playing experience.
  • Build quality. A well-built instrument should feel solid and durable. We inspect the materials, overall construction, and weight distribution to determine if the digital piano can withstand long-term use. Portability is also considered, especially for stage pianos and gigging musicians.
  • Connectivity. A modern digital piano should integrate seamlessly into different setups. Instead of just listing available connection options, we evaluate how useful they are in practical scenarios. This includes:
    • Whether it has dual headphone jacks for teacher-student practice.
    • If it supports external speaker connections for use with a PA system.
    • The presence of Bluetooth and MIDI capabilities for integration with learning apps and music production.
    • USB connectivity for recording and DAW compatibility.

We use consistent benchmarks across all reviews to ensure fair and direct comparisons.

3. Scoring and recommendations

Our scoring system is tailored to reflect the instrument’s suitability for its intended user base:

  • High-end digital pianos. Emphasis is placed on sound quality and key action, as these instruments cater to serious pianists and students seeking an authentic playing experience. Aesthetics and design are also considered, given that these instruments are often prominent fixtures in a home setting.
  • Budget digital pianos. While sound and feel remain important, we also consider features that aid beginners, such as built-in lessons and user-friendly interfaces. Value for money becomes a significant factor, ensuring that newcomers receive the best possible start without unnecessary expenditure.
  • Keyboards. Depending on their classification – home use, stage performance, or beginner models – we adjust our focus accordingly. For stage pianos, portability and connectivity might take precedence, while home keyboards may be evaluated on their versatility and sound variety. Beginner keyboards are assessed with allowances, understanding that they serve as introductory instruments.

How we present our reviews

We structure our reviews to provide quick and accessible insights:

  • Final verdict first. We place our overall conclusion and scores at the beginning of each review so that readers can quickly see the results. If you want to explore more details, you can continue reading the full report.
  • Comparison section. Every review includes a comparison section where we highlight alternative models in a similar price range. One of these might be a better fit for you, depending on your preferences and needs.
  • Retesting and updates. Some instruments are retested over time as new models enter the market, pricing changes, or other factors impact value/performance. This ensures that our reviews remain accurate and reflect the current landscape of available options.

Handling out-of-spec units

Occasionally, a product may arrive with defects or inconsistencies that do not reflect the expected performance. Here’s how we handle such cases:

  • Identification. Recognizing anomalies during testing, such as faulty keys or inconsistent sound output.
  • Verification. Consulting with manufacturers or other experts to determine if the issue is widespread or isolated.
  • Retesting. Acquiring a second unit to confirm findings.
  • Reporting. Transparently documenting any inconsistencies and their potential impact on the user experience.

This process ensures our test results reflect real-world consumer experiences.

Why you should trust our reviews

At Pianist’s Compass, our reviews are led by James Michael Nugent, the Senior Reviewer and head of our team of testers, which includes professional pianists, students, and teachers who rigorously test the instruments.

With over 25 years of teaching and performing experience, James ensures that all reviews maintain the highest standard of accuracy and insight. As the most experienced member of our team, review articles are posted on his behalf, guaranteeing expert oversight and editorial integrity.

Additionally, we consult other experts, including:

  • Teachers who actively train students of all skill levels.
  • Workshop organizers who educate piano instructors and musicians.
  • Professional players who provide insights into real-world performance use.

This collaborative approach ensures our reviews remain objective, insightful, and relevant.

Independence and transparency

We are committed to honest and unbiased reviews. Here’s how we maintain transparency:

  • No paid reviews. We do not accept payments from manufacturers to influence our reviews.
  • Affiliate disclosure. Some links on our site are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you purchase through them. This helps fund our testing at no extra cost to you.
  • Manufacturer-supplied units. If a manufacturer provides a unit for testing, we disclose it in the review. However, this does not affect our ratings or conclusions.

What this means for you

Our mission is to help pianists find the best instrument for their needs, but we also believe in the value of shared experiences. Discussions are open on all our review pages, and we encourage readers to share their thoughts, experiences, and even their own ratings.

Your feedback not only helps us refine our reviews but also assists other pianists in making informed decisions, whether they are beginners or experienced players. By following a structured and independent review process, we ensure that every recommendation is based on real testing, expert analysis, and practical usability.

For more details on our testing process, feel free to contact us.