Kawai has been building acoustic pianos for nearly a century, and much of that piano-making experience carries over into its digital instruments.

Rather than concentrating primarily on hundreds of sounds and entertainment features, many Kawai digital pianos put particular emphasis on two things that matter greatly to pianists:

keyboard touch and acoustic-piano sound.

That makes Kawai especially interesting for beginners taking formal lessons, experienced acoustic-piano players looking for a digital alternative, families wanting a quality home piano, and musicians who want a portable instrument without giving up realistic weighted keys.

But Kawai’s digital piano range is broad.

Should you buy an affordable ES120, move up to the ES920, choose a furniture-style CN Series piano, or invest in one of Kawai’s premium Concert Artist (CA) instruments?

This guide explains the differences and helps you choose the Kawai digital piano that best matches your playing level, home, budget, and musical goals.

Why Consider a Kawai Digital Piano?

Kawai isn’t simply an electronics company that happens to manufacture keyboards.

It is first and foremost a piano manufacturer.

The company builds acoustic upright and grand pianos, including the premium Shigeru Kawai instruments whose concert-grand sounds are reproduced in many Kawai digital models.

This piano-building background helps explain why Kawai places so much emphasis on keyboard action.

Depending on the model, Kawai digital pianos use actions ranging from the compact Responsive Hammer Compact (RHC) mechanism to the sophisticated Grand Feel III wooden-key action found in its premium Concert Artist instruments.

Understanding Kawai’s Digital Piano Families

Before comparing individual models, it helps to understand how the range is organized.

ES Series — Portable Digital Pianos

The ES family is designed for players who want a full-size digital piano that can be moved.

These instruments include built-in speakers but don’t require a permanent furniture-style cabinet.

They work well for:

• Beginners
• Apartment dwellers
• Students
• Teachers
• Musicians who occasionally perform
• Players who need to move or store their piano

The ES120 is the more affordable option, while the ES920 offers a significantly more sophisticated keyboard action, sound system, and feature set.

KDP Series — Affordable Home Digital Pianos

The KDP family is aimed at home users who want a traditional furniture-style digital piano.

A model such as the KDP120 incorporates the keyboard, speakers, stand, and three-pedal system into a single home instrument.

This can be an excellent choice for families who don’t need portability.

CN Series — Midrange Home Digital Pianos

Move higher and you reach the CN family.

These instruments provide more sophisticated keyboard actions and sound systems while retaining a traditional home-piano cabinet.

The CN201 and CN301 are particularly worth considering for developing and intermediate pianists.

CA Series — Premium Concert Artist Digital Pianos

Kawai’s Concert Artist family is designed for players seeking a digital experience considerably closer to an acoustic grand.

Current models include the:

• CA401
• CA501
• CA701
• CA901

The higher models use sophisticated wooden-key actions and increasingly elaborate sound and amplification systems.

The flagship CA901 even incorporates a real wooden soundboard as part of its speaker system.

What Makes Kawai Keyboard Actions Different?

Keyboard action should be one of your highest priorities when choosing a digital piano.

All “weighted keys” are not alike.

Kawai uses several actions across its range.

Responsive Hammer Compact

Found in instruments such as the ES120, this provides graded hammer weighting in a relatively compact mechanism.

It allows Kawai to keep the instrument portable while still giving beginners and developing pianists a substantially more piano-like experience than an unweighted keyboard.

Responsive Hammer III

Move to instruments such as the ES920 and CN201/CN301 and you reach Responsive Hammer III (RHIII).

This action adds features such as:

• Triple-sensor key detection
• Let-off simulation
• Counterweights
• Ivory Touch key surfaces

These refinements can improve repetition, control, and overall playing feel.

Grand Feel Actions

Kawai’s higher Concert Artist models move into wooden-key mechanisms.

The CA701 and CA901, for example, use the Grand Feel III action with 88 wooden keys, graded counterweights, triple sensors, and let-off simulation.

For an experienced acoustic pianist, this difference may matter considerably.

Kawai’s Piano Sound Technology

Kawai uses recordings of its acoustic grand pianos to create the core sounds in its digital instruments.

Depending on the model, these can include sounds derived from instruments such as:

• Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand
• Shigeru Kawai SK-5
• Kawai EX concert grand
• Kawai K-60 upright

The sound technology becomes increasingly sophisticated as you move through the range.

Entry and midrange instruments use versions of Kawai’s Harmonic Imaging technology.

Higher models introduce more advanced processing, including SK-EX Rendering and multi-channel sampling.

The important point for buyers is that you’re not simply paying for more volume or a more attractive cabinet as you move upward.

You’re also paying for increasingly sophisticated keyboard and sound systems.

Best Kawai Digital Pianos to Consider in 2026

1. Kawai ES120 — Best Kawai Digital Piano for Beginners

Check out the price of Kawai ES120 at Amazon

The Kawai ES120 is one of the most logical starting points for someone who wants a genuine 88-key digital piano without moving immediately into a large furniture-style instrument.

It uses Kawai’s Responsive Hammer Compact action, with 88 graded weighted keys.

For its piano sounds, the ES120 uses Harmonic Imaging technology with 88-key stereo sampling and sounds based on several Kawai acoustic instruments, including the SK-EX concert grand.

Maximum polyphony is 192 notes.

Why Consider the ES120?

• 88 graded hammer-action keys
• Compact and portable
• Built-in speakers
• 192-note polyphony
• Bluetooth MIDI
• Bluetooth Audio
• USB-MIDI
• Headphone outputs
• Compatible with optional three-pedal systems
• Kawai PianoRemote app compatibility

The ES120 weighs approximately 12 kg (26.5 lb) without its music rest, making it considerably easier to move than a console digital piano.

Who Is It Best For?

The ES120 is particularly suitable for:

• Beginners
• Piano students
• Apartment dwellers
• Families with limited space
• Players who need to store the piano occasionally
• Musicians wanting a relatively lightweight 88-key instrument

Best for: Beginners and buyers wanting an affordable, portable entry into Kawai’s digital-piano range.

2. Kawai KDP120 — Best for Beginners Who Want a Home Piano

Not everybody needs portability.

If the piano will remain permanently in a living room, bedroom, or music room, the KDP120 offers a more traditional setup.

The KDP120 uses Kawai’s Responsive Hammer Compact II action with triple-sensor hammer detection.

It also incorporates a built-in three-pedal system and a 40-watt stereo amplification system.

Why Consider the KDP120?

• 88 weighted keys
• Triple-sensor RHCII action
• Shigeru Kawai SK-EX grand piano sound
• 192-note polyphony
• 40-watt speaker system
• Three-pedal configuration
• Bluetooth MIDI
• USB-MIDI
• Built-in lesson material
• Furniture-style cabinet

ES120 vs KDP120

This is an important choice for beginners.

Choose the ES120 if you want:

• Portability
• Lower weight
• Easier storage
• Flexibility in choosing a stand

Choose the KDP120 if you want:

• A permanent home setup
• Integrated pedals
• A stronger built-in sound system
• Furniture-style appearance

Neither is automatically better.

They simply solve different problems.

Best for: Beginning and developing pianists wanting a permanent home instrument.

3. Kawai ES920 — Best Portable Kawai for Serious Pianists

Check out the price of Kawai ES920 at Amazon

The ES920 represents a significant step up from the ES120.

Most importantly, it uses Kawai’s Responsive Hammer III action.

This incorporates:

• Triple-sensor detection
• Let-off simulation
• Counterweights
• Ivory Touch key surfaces
• Graded hammer weighting

Its Harmonic Imaging XL sound technology uses 88-key sampling from multiple Kawai grand pianos, and maximum polyphony increases to 256 notes.

Why Consider the ES920?

• More sophisticated RHIII keyboard action
• 256-note polyphony
• SK-EX, SK-5 and EX grand piano sounds
• 40-watt speaker system
• Bluetooth MIDI and Audio
• USB audio recording/playback
• Line outputs
• MIDI In/Out
• Extensive Virtual Technician adjustments
• Four-band EQ

Despite this capability, the ES920 weighs approximately 17 kg (37.5 lb) without its music rest.

That’s not lightweight in an absolute sense, but it remains substantially easier to transport than a furniture-style console piano.

Who Is It Best For?

The ES920 is particularly attractive for:

• Intermediate and advanced pianists
• Teachers
• Gigging pianists
• Serious students
• Acoustic-piano players needing a portable digital instrument

Best for: Players who want one of Kawai’s better keyboard actions in a transportable instrument.

4. Kawai CN201 — Best Midrange Home Digital Piano

The CN201 is a logical choice for families and developing pianists who want something more substantial than an entry-level digital piano but don’t yet need the premium wooden-key actions of the CA Series.

It uses the same broad Responsive Hammer III action technology found in the ES920.

That means it includes triple-sensor detection, let-off simulation, counterweights, and Ivory Touch key surfaces.

Unlike the portable ES920, however, the CN201 is built into a traditional console-style cabinet with an integrated three-pedal system.

Why Consider the CN201?

• RHIII keyboard action
• 88 graded weighted keys
• 192-note polyphony
• SK-EX and EX grand piano sounds
• Integrated three-pedal system
• Bluetooth MIDI and Audio
• Built-in speakers
• OLED display
• Traditional cabinet
• PianoRemote compatibility

Who Is It Best For?

• Developing students
• Intermediate pianists
• Families wanting a long-term instrument
• Players who prefer furniture-style digital pianos
• Homes where portability isn’t required

Best for: Buyers seeking a serious home piano without moving into Kawai’s premium CA range.

5. Kawai CA701 — Best Premium Choice for Serious Pianists

When you move into Kawai’s Concert Artist series, the emphasis shifts more strongly toward reproducing the physical experience of playing an acoustic grand.

The CA701 uses Kawai’s Grand Feel III action.

Unlike the plastic-key mechanisms used in many digital pianos, the Grand Feel III incorporates 88 wooden keys.

It also features:

• Graded counterweights
• Triple-sensor detection
• Let-off simulation
• Ivory Touch white key surfaces
• Ebony Touch black key surfaces

The sound system includes Kawai’s more advanced SK-EX Rendering technology and multi-channel sampling.

Why Consider the CA701?

This is an instrument for someone who places piano realism ahead of portability.

It’s particularly appropriate for:

• Advanced students
• Experienced pianists
• Classical players
• Teachers
• Acoustic-piano owners seeking a digital alternative
• Families wanting a premium long-term instrument

Best for: Serious pianists who want wooden keys and premium piano performance without moving to Kawai’s flagship model.

7. Kawai CA901 — Best Premium Kawai Digital Piano

The CA901 is Kawai’s flagship Concert Artist digital piano.

Like the CA701, it uses the Grand Feel III wooden-key action.

Where the CA901 distinguishes itself further is in its sound reproduction system.

It incorporates Kawai’s TwinDrive soundboard speaker system, using a genuine wooden soundboard as part of the instrument’s acoustic delivery.

The goal is to create a more physical, room-filling piano experience than conventional speakers alone can provide.

The CA901 also incorporates:

• SK-EX Competition Grand sounds
• Multi-channel sampling
• Resonance modeling
• Premium amplification
• Bluetooth MIDI and Audio
• 5-inch touchscreen
• USB audio functions
• Spatial Headphone Sound

Who Is the CA901 For?

The CA901 makes the most sense for someone who wants one of Kawai’s most sophisticated home digital pianos and isn’t primarily concerned with price or portability.

It is particularly suited to:

• Advanced pianists
• Classical musicians
• Serious home players
• Acoustic-piano players wanting digital conveniences
• Buyers considering a premium digital piano instead of an acoustic upright

Best for: Players seeking Kawai’s flagship home digital-piano experience.

Quick Kawai Digital Piano Comparison

Model	Keyboard Action	Format	Best For
ES120	Responsive Hammer Compact	Portable	Beginners
KDP120	Responsive Hammer Compact II	Console	Beginner home piano
ES920	Responsive Hammer III	Portable	Serious/performing pianists
CN201	Responsive Hammer III	Console	Developing/intermediate players
CN301	Responsive Hammer III	Console	Intermediate players/families
CA701	Grand Feel III wooden keys	Premium console	Advanced pianists
CA901	Grand Feel III wooden keys	Flagship console	Premium home piano

Which Kawai Digital Piano Is Best for Beginners?

For most beginners, I would start by comparing the ES120 and KDP120.

The choice comes down largely to portability.

The ES120 is considerably easier to move and can be used on a portable stand.

The KDP120 gives you the more traditional experience of a dedicated home piano, including a furniture cabinet and integrated pedals.

A committed student who expects to continue playing for many years could also consider moving directly to the CN201.

Which Kawai Digital Piano Has the Best Key Action?

There isn’t a single answer because price and intended use matter.

Within the models discussed here:

ES120
Responsive Hammer Compact

↓

KDP120
Responsive Hammer Compact II

↓

ES920 / CN201 / CN301
Responsive Hammer III

↓

CA701 / CA901
Grand Feel III wooden-key action

As you move upward, the mechanisms generally become increasingly sophisticated and acoustic-piano-like.

However, keyboard feel is personal.

Whenever possible, play the instrument yourself before purchasing it.

Which Kawai Is Best for Classical Piano?

For a beginner studying classical piano, the ES120 or KDP120 can provide an appropriate starting point.

For an intermediate player, the ES920, CN201, or CN301 provides a more sophisticated keyboard action.

Advanced classical pianists should investigate the CA Series, particularly the CA701 and CA901, where the wooden-key Grand Feel III action becomes a major attraction.

But don’t choose from specifications alone.

An experienced pianist should play several instruments and determine which action feels most natural.

Which Kawai Digital Piano Is Best for Gigging?

The ES920 is the obvious choice among the models covered here.

It combines a sophisticated RHIII keyboard action with a portable format, built-in speakers, line outputs, MIDI connections, and extensive sound control.

The ES120 is lighter and easier to carry, so it may be preferable for musicians who prioritize portability over the more sophisticated keyboard action and feature set of the ES920.

Does Kawai Make Good Digital Pianos?

Yes.

Kawai’s strongest reputation in the digital-piano market is closely connected to its emphasis on piano touch and acoustic-piano sound.

That doesn’t mean Kawai is automatically better than Yamaha, Roland, Casio, or other manufacturers.

Different brands emphasize different characteristics.

The better question is:

Which manufacturer’s keyboard action, sound, features, design, and price best match your needs?

Kawai vs Yamaha Digital Pianos

This is one of the most common comparisons buyers make.

Both companies have extensive experience manufacturing acoustic pianos as well as digital instruments.

Kawai often attracts buyers who place particularly high importance on keyboard action, including its higher-end wooden-key mechanisms.

Yamaha offers an extremely broad range of instruments and draws on famous Yamaha and Bösendorfer acoustic-piano sounds.

There isn’t a universal winner.

A buyer comparing equivalent Yamaha and Kawai models should ideally play both.

Kawai vs Roland Digital Pianos

Roland takes a somewhat different approach, particularly in its use of modeling technology in many instruments.

Kawai frequently emphasizes sampled sounds from its acoustic grand pianos together with sophisticated mechanical keyboard actions.

Again, this isn’t a question of one technology being universally superior.

The player’s ears and fingers should ultimately decide.

Portable vs Console Kawai: Which Should You Buy?

Choose a portable ES Series instrument if:

• You perform
• You move frequently
• Space is limited
• You need to store the piano
• You don’t want a permanent cabinet

Choose a KDP, CN, or CA console if:

• The piano will remain in one room
• You want integrated pedals
• Furniture-style appearance matters
• Built-in speaker performance is important
• You want a more traditional piano setup

Don’t Pay for Features You Won’t Use

It’s easy to assume that the most expensive piano must be the best purchase.

That’s not necessarily true.

A beginner may gain very little from paying for a flagship soundboard speaker system.

Similarly, a professional pianist may quickly outgrow the keyboard action of an entry-level instrument.

Spend your money primarily on the features that affect how you play:

1. Keyboard action
2. Piano sound
3. Speaker/headphone performance
4. Pedals
5. Portability
6. Connectivity

Features such as hundreds of additional sounds should usually come after those fundamentals for a piano-focused buyer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kawai digital pianos good for beginners?

Yes. Models such as the ES120 and KDP120 provide full-size weighted keyboards suitable for beginning piano study.

Is the Kawai ES120 better than the ES920?

Not overall—the ES920 is the more sophisticated instrument.

However, the ES120 is lighter, less complex, and generally more affordable, which may make it the better purchase for a beginner.

Is the Kawai KDP120 portable?

Not in the same sense as an ES120 or ES920. The KDP120 is designed as a furniture-style home digital piano.

Is the Kawai ES920 good for professional musicians?

Yes. Its RHIII keyboard action, line outputs, MIDI connections, portability, and extensive sound features make it suitable for professional use.

Does Kawai make digital pianos with wooden keys?

Yes. Several Concert Artist models use wooden-key actions. The CA701 and CA901, for example, use Kawai’s Grand Feel III action with 88 wooden keys.

What replaced the Kawai ES110?

The ES120 is the newer model in Kawai’s portable digital-piano range and is the more appropriate model for current buyers to investigate.

What replaced the Kawai CA99?

The CA99 is now listed by Kawai as discontinued. The CA901 is the current flagship Concert Artist model.

Are Kawai digital pianos better than Yamaha?

Neither brand is universally better. Both manufacture excellent instruments. Compare equivalent models based on keyboard feel, piano sound, speakers, features, price, and your intended use.

Final Thoughts: Which Kawai Digital Piano Should You Buy?

Kawai’s digital-piano range makes more sense once you stop looking for one universally “best” model.

For a beginner wanting portability, start with the ES120.

For a beginner wanting a permanent home instrument, consider the KDP120.

For a serious pianist who needs portability, the ES920 is particularly attractive.

For developing and intermediate home players, compare the CN201 and CN301.

And for advanced pianists who prioritize an acoustic-piano-like experience, investigate the CA701 and CA901.

The biggest differences become increasingly apparent under your fingers.

That’s why specifications and online reviews should help you create a shortlist—not make the entire decision for you.

If possible, sit down at the final two or three instruments you’re considering and play them.

For a pianist, the best digital piano is ultimately the one that makes you forget about specifications and concentrate on the music.

Related articles:

The Best Kawai Digital Pianos for Every Pianist