How to Choose a Digital Piano

Key action comes first

Look for 88 weighted keys with graded hammer action, so the lower notes feel heavier and the upper notes lighter, as on an acoustic piano. Try to play before you buy if you can, as feel is personal.

Sound and polyphony

Better sound engines use detailed piano samples and richer resonance. Higher polyphony keeps long, pedalled passages from dropping notes.

Pedals, speakers and ports

• A sustain pedal is essential, three pedals add realism.
• Built-in speakers matter if you will not always use headphones.
• A headphone jack allows silent practice.
• USB or MIDI lets you connect to apps, learning software and recording.

Portable or console?

Slab-style pianos are lighter, work with stands and can travel. Console or cabinet pianos look like furniture, feel solid and include fixed pedals, but they are heavy and fixed in place. Choose by where it will live and whether it needs to move.