What is the difference between a digital piano and a keyboard?

@toni 

The main difference between a digital piano and a keyboard lies in the functionality, features, and design.

1. Sound Quality: Digital pianos are specifically designed to resemble the sound and feel of an acoustic piano. They often replicate high-quality piano tones, offering realistic and nuanced sounds. Keyboards, on the other hand, may have a wide range of sounds and tones, but they usually do not match the sound quality and depth of a digital piano.
2. Key Sensitivity: Digital pianos typically have weighted or graded keys that imitate the touch and feel of an acoustic piano. This means that the keys are heavier in the lower register and lighter in the higher register, similar to the responsiveness of a traditional piano. Keyboards usually have lighter and less sensitive keys, which can make it easier to play faster and more complex pieces, but lack the natural feel of a piano.
3. Size and Portability: Keyboards are generally more portable and compact than digital pianos. They are designed to be easily transported and are often used in live performances or for music production on the go. Digital pianos, on the other hand, are bulkier and resemble the size of an upright or grand piano. They are usually stationary instruments meant for home use.
4. Built-in Features: Keyboards are known for their versatility and offer a range of built-in features such as drum patterns, different instrument voices, recording capabilities, and effects. They often have pitch bend, modulation wheels, and various control knobs for live performance. Digital pianos, although they can offer additional features, usually prioritize a more authentic piano-playing experience and may have fewer built-in extras.
5. Price: Generally, digital pianos are more expensive than keyboards due to their aim for replicating the sound and feel of an acoustic piano accurately. Keyboards, being more versatile and portable, usually come at a lower price point.

Ultimately, the choice between a digital piano and a keyboard depends on individual needs and preferences. If you primarily focus on piano playing and want a realistic acoustic piano experience, a digital piano is likely the better option. If you prioritize portability, versatility, and a wider range of sounds and features, a keyboard might suit you better.

@toni 

A digital piano and a keyboard are both electronic instruments that produce sound using digital technology, but they have several important differences:

1. Sound quality and authenticity: Digital pianos are designed to replicate the sound and feel of an acoustic piano as closely as possible, whereas keyboards often offer a wide range of sounds and effects but may not provide the same quality of piano sound.
2. Key action: Digital pianos typically have weighted or hammer-action keys that mimic the feel of an acoustic piano, giving a more realistic playing experience. Keyboards usually have lighter or semi-weighted keys, which may feel different from an acoustic piano.
3. Size and portability: Keyboards are generally smaller, lighter, and more portable than digital pianos, making them easier to transport and store. Digital pianos are bulkier and heavier, resembling the size and weight of an acoustic piano.
4. Number of keys: Digital pianos commonly have 88 keys, matching the number of keys on an acoustic piano. Keyboards can vary in the number of keys, with common options being 61 or 76 keys, although some models have as few as 25 keys.
5. Features and functions: Keyboards often offer a wide range of built-in sounds, rhythms, effects, and recording capabilities, making them versatile for different musical genres and performance styles. Digital pianos, on the other hand, typically focus on reproducing the piano playing experience and may have fewer features.
6. Price range: Digital pianos generally tend to be more expensive than keyboards due to their higher quality sound, weighted keys, and closer resemblance to an acoustic piano. Keyboards, with their smaller features and portability, are usually more affordable.

Overall, the choice between a digital piano and a keyboard depends on individual needs, preferences, and the purpose for which the instrument will be used. Digital pianos are more suitable for piano-focused players, while keyboards offer more versatility and convenience for a wider range of musical styles and applications.