Buying a first digital piano as an adult: a five-point checklist
1. 88 weighted keys
The defining features of a digital piano are 88 keys that are weighted and velocity-sensitive (Wikipedia). With unweighted keys you train different finger habits; fewer keys and you run out of range on real repertoire.
2. Key action: names, not adjectives
Makers name their actions: Roland's FP-10 uses PHA-4 Standard with escapement and "Ivory Feel"; Yamaha's P-143 uses Graded Hammer Compact (GHC). Piano actions try to reproduce the hammer mechanism of an acoustic piano (Wikipedia). Graded means heavier hammers in the bass and lighter in the treble; Roland says the FP-10 has this. Try both in a store if possible; touch is personal and we haven't tested.
3. Footprint and weight
Roland lists the FP-10 at 12.6 kg without the music rest and calls it the most compact 88-note digital piano in its class. Measure your space, including where you sit and pedal.
4. Headphones and speakers
Both makers list headphone outputs. If you practise late, a headphone jack is the most important feature on the spec sheet. Onboard speakers matter less if you'll mostly use headphones.
5. Pedals and stand
A sustain pedal is essential for most piano music. Roland says half-pedalling on the FP-10 needs its optional DP-10 pedal. A stand and bench are separate purchases unless bundled; check what's in the box.
What to skip as a beginner
- Hundreds of built-in sounds: you won't use them.
- Buying for maximum polyphony; the FP-10 has 96 voices, which the maker sells as sufficient.
- Convenience-only features (Bluetooth apps) as a reason to skip a better action.