When it comes to finding the perfect piano, upright pianos are a timeless choice for pianists of all levels.
Compact, elegant, and capable of delivering beautiful sound, they fit seamlessly into homes, studios, and performance spaces alike.
With 2025 bringing fresh innovations and designs, I’ve compiled a list of the best upright pianos to suit every need and style.
Whether you’re a beginner, professional, or hobbyist, this guide will help you choose the right upright piano to match your aspirations.
Our Top Picks of The Best Upright Pianos in 2025
- The CFX Premium Grand Piano Voice recreates the power and tone of Yamaha’s flagship CFX concert grand piano
- Graded Hammer 3 action (GH3) with synthetic ivory key tops add a tactile surface to the white keys, which absorbs finger moisture and prevents slipping
- Realistic Grand Piano Sound – Enjoy the rich, natural sound of a concert grand piano, including both damper and string resonance, plus 9 other instrument Voices
- Acoustic Piano Touch – Experience the natural feel of an acoustic piano with the Graded Hammer Standard keyboard with Touch Response
- 【Weighted Keyboard Piano】DDP-400 keyboard with full-sized 88 harmmer progressive weighted keyboard and double-contact design, precisely matching the finger strength changes, extremely restoring the piano’s finger strength, is heavier in the low end and lighter in the high end. The DDP-400 gives it performance comparable to that of premium pianos
- 【 Extended a speaker cabinet】Donner’s designers extended Digital piano speaker cabinet, which increases the length of the strings, have a larger soundboard area, the volume and timbre are larger and fuller than ordinary pianos, the harmonics are richer, and the resonance is stronger. The rounded streamline and warm wooden textures also adds a vintage look to your home, studio or practice room.Suitable for compact family, practice, party playing，small music concert
- WEIGHTED KEYBOARD PIANO: The DDP-400 keyboard piano features a full-sized 88-key hammer-action progressive weighted keyboard with a double-contact design, precisely mimicking finger strength changes, exceptionally replicating the feel of a piano’s touch. It’s heavier in the low end and lighter in the high end, providing performance comparable to that of premium pianos
- WITH AN EXTENDED SPEAKER CABINET: Donner’s digital piano boasts an extended speaker cabinet for longer strings, a larger soundboard, richer harmonics, and stronger resonance. Its vintage-inspired design with rounded lines and warm wood adds charm to any space. Perfect for families, practice, parties, and small concerts
- 88 Key Full-Weighted Digital Piano – The 88 key heavy hammer action keyboard simulates the acoustic piano, accurately captures the strength of your fingers and gives you a grand piano touch. It’s a good electronic piano to replace the grand piano for teaching or learning.
- Powerful Sound Source – The Advanced French DREAM sound source is adopted, bringing you a realistic auditory experience. 128 max polyphony and the triple pedal will help you express your feelings better.
- Classic First Digital Piano For Modern Living Space: The DDP-90 is an 88 key weighted digital piano built for modern life; With a contemporary, compact design perfect for smaller apartments or home, it’s perfect to start your piano learning journey
- Hammer Action Weighted Keyboard: From first notes to early recitals – and beyond – it’s vital to choose a piano that inspires beginner as their playing improves; DDP-90 digital piano keyboard features 88 full-sized responsive weighted keys, whose hammer action and ivory-feel texture brings out every nuance of a beginner’s developing touch, encouraging them to play with passion and find their musical voice
- Realistic Feel: Fesley digital pianos feature 88 fully-weighted hammer-action keys that replicate the touch and feel of an acoustic piano. The keys offer varying resistance, accurately simulating the touch of a grand piano. With bass keys that feel heavier and treble keys that are lighter, the FEP1000 electric piano offers a real playing sensation.
- Upgraded Sound Source: 88 Key Weighted Keyboard Piano has upgraded French Dream sound source and built-in dual 25W speakers perfectly replicate the sound of an acoustic piano, giving you an unparalleled sound experience. And with the same configuration as a grand piano, the metal pedals allows you to express your emotions through accurate dynamics. The triple pedal jack is under the keyboard (5-pin)
- Outstanding Sound Quality: Immerse yourself in the exceptional sound quality delivered by our digital piano, powered by the renowned French Dream5704 sound chip. The sound resonates with depth and emotion, creating a truly immersive musical experience. Choose from 8 distinct tones and explore a library of 40 demo songs that provide ample room for creativity and skill improvement.
- Versatile Control: Take control of your music effortlessly. Switch between tones, enable dual-tone mode, record your performances, and enjoy playback functionality. Customize your sound with reverb, chorus, and tempo settings, allowing you to tailor your music to your unique style.
- Progressive Hammer Keyboard: This digital piano uses the top French DREAM sound source, digital sampling, 88-key progressive lever hammer keyboard, From treble to bass keys gradually increase, a touch comparable to an acoustic piano
- Input and Output Jack: Features USB/MIDI/AUDIO/HEADPHONE TERMINAL, MIDI input connect computer to learn lessons easily; Audio output to connect the external speaker, you can interact with variety of music entertainment on computer or phone devices
- [Thoughtful Design Details]: This classic home digital piano measures length 52.36 inches, height 29.92 inches, width 12 inches and weights 79.19 pounds.Its sleek design features a keyboard cover for protecting the keys when not in use,which can also double as a desk
- [Full-Weighted Key Touch]: The home digital piano recreates the touch and feel of an acoustic piano, providing a smooth,responsive piano-playing experience.Featuring an 88-key graded hammer piano keyboard,it provides a distinct touch from the bass to the treble range,replicating the authentic feel of playing on a grand piano
- Nice Experience: Whether at home, in the recording studio, or outdoors, playing on an electric piano that looks like high-end furniture is a fun experience; the new design adopts the drawer push-pull structure, which is widely used and saves space; it is 54.72 inches long, 13.39 inches wide, 31.31 inches high and weighs 85.98 lbs; not only can it be placed at home, but it can also be used as a gift for relatives and friends
- 88-Key Weighted Keyboard: the hammers imitate the keying structure of a traditional piano to achieve the feel of a real piano; solid touch and fast rebound speed, very suitable for piano beginners and piano lovers
- [Fully Weighted Professional Piano Keys]: Full-sized 88-key weighted keyboard, providing a smooth and high-response piano playing experience. Allows you to experience the feel of playing on a real piano. Size: 53.9″x29.13″x13.78″|Weight: 71.2 lbs; streamlined design, wooden case, three piano pedals (soft pedal, sustain pedal, and sostenuto pedal)
- [Outstanding Sound and System Features]: Equipped with volume adjustment, multi-tone selection, recording control, playback function, split, teaching function, etc. Input for playing MP3, built-in amplifier, support for external speakers or headphones, suitable for different use scenarios
- 【Home&Piano, Style, Redefined】Elevate your space with chic walnut-wood-grain aesthetics – where home meets the pure piano sound! Specially customized with an authentically reproduced wood-grain by STRICH, simplely installation to get a piece of music furniture with a great vintage vibe
- 【Pure, Authentic, Hammer Action Keys】Immerse in pure authenticity with responsive hammer action keys. SDP-300 digital piano’s 88 fully weighted and full-size keys have simulated ivory texture that reproduces the feel of a grand piano – a pianist’s touch at your fingertips
- 【88-key Piano】 The WENCAI electronic pianos have 88 keys with the same specifications as grand pianos and can play most music.
- 【Powerful Sound Source】This electronic piano adopts the advanced French DREAM sound source, allowing you to play the real piano tone and enjoy a realistic playing experience.
- 【Progressive Key】Our digital piano adopt the progressive keyboard, simulating the feel of the real acoustic piano and providing velocity sensitivity and adjustable touch response, 3 pedals (sustain, soft, sostenuto) and 2x25w amplifiers for a quality playing experience.
- 【Multi-functional Keyboard】This electric piano multi-functional keyboard features a back lit LCD screen for clearly showing sound volume adjustment, multi-tone selection, sound recording control, playback function, double keyboard split function etc.
- ♫【Weighted Digital Piano】- The digital piano with 88 SEMI-Weighted Keys simulates the real touch of playing the piano. Half-weighted keys reduce the sense of strength than full-weighted keys, for more sensitive touch response to suit different playing styles, suitable for beginners.
- ♫【200 Rhythms & 200 Polyphony】The 88 keys music keyboard piano with 200 polyphony, 200 rhythms, 80 demo songs and dual keyboard function, satisfying various styles of performance, nice for teaching and practice.
- All-Inclusive Kit-The DEK-610S Piano Keyboard Kit includes an easy-to-assemble keyboard stand, an adjustable-height bench, a sheet music stand, a microphone, and a power adapter. It provides everything you need in one package
- Unlimited Possibilities-With 32-note polyphony, 249 voices, 249 rhythms, 50 demo songs, and 3 teaching functions, you can unleash your creativity and enjoy band performances
Benefits of an Upright Piano
Understanding Upright Pianos: A Brief Overview
Upright pianos, often referred to as vertical pianos, are known for their space-saving design and rich sound. Unlike grand pianos, their strings and soundboard are positioned vertically, making them more compact. This doesn’t mean compromising on sound quality—upright pianos are capable of delivering exceptional tones when crafted with care.
Best Upright Pianos for Every Pianist
1. Bechstein Pianos: The Epitome of Craftsmanship
Bechstein has long been a name synonymous with excellence. Crafted in Germany, Bechstein pianos combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to produce instruments with an unparalleled tonal depth.
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality
- Warm, resonant sound
- Wide dynamic range
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Requires regular tuning for optimal performance
2. Blüthner Pianos: A Legacy of Elegance
Blüthner pianos are known for their unique tonal character and impeccable aesthetics. These pianos have been a favorite among classical pianists for over a century.
Pros:
- Distinctive warm tone
- Elegant design
- Long-lasting durability
Cons:
- Expensive
- Limited availability in some regions
3. Bösendorfer Pianos: The Luxury Choice
For those seeking a piano that’s as much a statement piece as an instrument, Bösendorfer is unmatched. These pianos are handcrafted in Austria with exceptional attention to detail.
Pros:
- Luxurious sound and appearance
- Customization options
- Exceptional sustain
Cons:
- Extremely high cost
- Heavier than most upright pianos
4. AUGUST FORSTER Pianos: The German Precision
AUGUST FORSTER is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship and precision engineering. These pianos are perfect for those who value consistency and reliability.
Pros:
- Superior craftsmanship
- Balanced tone
- Suitable for professionals
Cons:
- Higher cost of ownership
- Limited tonal customization
5. Grotrian Pianos: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Grotrian combines traditional German craftsmanship with innovative features. Their pianos offer a distinctive, clear tone that’s beloved by many.
Pros:
- Crystal-clear tone
- Robust construction
- Ideal for classical music
Cons:
- Pricey for beginners
- May require professional setup
6. Sauter Pianos: The Sustainable Option
Sauter pianos are renowned for their commitment to sustainability without compromising sound quality. These pianos offer a unique blend of traditional techniques and eco-conscious practices.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly materials
- Rich, expressive tone
- Unique designs
Cons:
- Availability may be limited
- Higher initial cost
7. Schimmel Pianos: The Versatile Performer
Schimmel pianos are known for their versatility and innovative designs. Their tone is clear and powerful, making them suitable for a wide range of genres.
Pros:
- Wide tonal range
- Durable and reliable
- Great for diverse musical styles
Cons:
- Slightly heavier touch
- Mid-to-high price range
8. Steinway & Sons Pianos: The Iconic Standard
Steinway needs no introduction. Known worldwide for their grand pianos, their upright models offer the same exceptional quality in a compact form.
Pros:
- Iconic brand
- Superior craftsmanship
- Timeless sound
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Requires significant maintenance
9. Steingraeber & Söhne Pianos: The Artisan’s Choice
Handcrafted in Germany, Steingraeber pianos are for those who appreciate artisanal quality. Each piano is a work of art.
Pros:
- Unmatched build quality
- Unique, expressive tone
- Highly customizable
Cons:
- Extremely limited production
- High price tag
10. YAMAHA Pianos: The Reliable Workhorse
YAMAHA upright pianos are a staple in music schools and homes around the world. They offer excellent reliability and consistent performance.
Pros:
- Affordable options
- Durable and reliable
- Suitable for all skill levels
Cons:
- Less expressive tone compared to premium brands
- Standard design
11. Kawai Pianos: The Innovative Contender
Kawai is known for innovation, utilizing advanced materials and technology in their piano designs. Their upright pianos are excellent for modern pianists.
Pros:
- Advanced materials like ABS-Carbon
- Clear and bright sound
- Wide range of models
Cons:
- Slightly bright tone might not suit all genres
- Higher-end models can be costly
12. Roland Pianos: The Digital Revolution
Roland’s digital upright pianos combine the look of a traditional piano with the versatility of modern technology.
Pros:
- Wide range of sounds
- Maintenance-free
- Built-in learning tools
Cons:
- Lacks the feel of acoustic pianos
- Depreciates faster than acoustic models
Choosing the Right Upright Piano for Your Needs
When selecting an upright piano, consider your skill level, budget, and the space available. Beginners might lean towards reliable and affordable brands like YAMAHA or Kawai, while professionals might prefer the nuanced tones of Bechstein or Steinway. For digital enthusiasts, Roland offers a modern alternative.
Maintenance Tips for Your Upright Piano
Proper maintenance is key to preserving the life and sound quality of your piano. Regular tuning, proper humidity control, and cleaning are essential. Use a piano cover to protect it from dust, and avoid placing it near heat sources.
The Future of Upright Pianos: Trends and Innovations
The future of upright pianos lies in blending tradition with technology. Digital hybrids like those from Roland are paving the way for more accessible and versatile instruments. Sustainable materials and advanced sound engineering will continue to shape the market, ensuring that upright pianos remain a beloved choice for generations to come.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect upright piano in 2025 means understanding your unique needs and preferences. With options ranging from artisanal masterpieces to reliable workhorses, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the craftsmanship of Bechstein, the versatility of Schimmel, or the modern innovations of Roland, the right piano is out there waiting for you.
FAQ
What is the best brand for upright pianos?
The best brand depends on your needs. Bechstein and Steinway are ideal for professionals, while YAMAHA and Kawai offer great options for beginners and hobbyists.
What is the highest quality piano?
High-quality brands include Steinway, Bechstein, and Bösendorfer. These pianos are known for their craftsmanship, tonal depth, and longevity.
Are taller upright pianos better?
Taller upright pianos often have longer strings and larger soundboards, resulting in richer sound. However, the quality of construction also plays a significant role.
Is it worth buying an old upright piano?
It can be, but ensure it’s in good condition. A professional inspection is recommended to check for structural integrity and sound quality.
What is the life expectancy of an upright piano?
With proper care, upright pianos can last 40-60 years or more.
How much should you spend on an upright piano?
Entry-level pianos start around $3,000, while high-end models can exceed $40,000.
Which pianos hold their value?
Brands like Steinway, Bechstein, and Bösendorfer tend to retain their value well.
What are the cons of an upright piano?
They’re less portable and have a smaller dynamic range compared to grand pianos.
How do you know if a piano is good quality?
Look for consistent tone, solid construction, and a reputable brand.
What are good old piano brands?
Steinway, Baldwin, and Mason & Hamlin are respected vintage brands.
Is it okay to buy a 40-year-old piano?
Yes, if it’s been well-maintained. Have it inspected by a professional.
Is Baldwin a good piano brand?
Yes, Baldwin pianos are known for their durability and quality.
How many years does a digital piano last?
Digital pianos typically last 10-20 years, depending on usage and care.
Are upright pianos harder to play?
Not necessarily. They require less physical effort than grand pianos, making them suitable for beginners.
Is upright or digital piano better?
It depends on your needs. Uprights offer traditional sound and feel, while digitals provide versatility and low maintenance.
How much does it cost to restore an old upright piano?
Restoration costs vary but typically range from $2,000 to $10,000 depending on the condition and extent of work needed.
