Choosing the Right Beginner Digital Piano: Casio CDP-S110 vs Yamaha P-45 vs Gear4music VisionKey 200

When you're starting out on the piano, the instrument you choose can make a huge difference, not just in sound, but in how it feels to play and how well it prepares you for future progress. While affordability is often a major factor for beginners and students, it's important not to sacrifice essential features like weighted keys, which are crucial for developing proper technique.

In this post, we’re comparing three popular entry-level digital pianos: the Casio CDP-S110 , the Yamaha P-45 , and the Gear4music VisionKey 200 —with a key focus on why weighted keys matter , and why our rental scheme might be the best route for students looking to get started without breaking the bank.

The Casio CDP-S110 is a compact and affordable digital piano that ticks most boxes for beginner pianists. It features:

• 88 fully weighted, hammer-action keys

• A slim, portable design

• A realistic acoustic piano feel

• USB connectivity and various instrument voices

Casio’s Scaled Hammer Action II keybed provides an impressive level of realism, especially in this price range. For students learning classical or graded pieces, this makes the CDP-S110 a solid practice instrument.

Pros: Fully weighted keys, slim design, good sound for the price
Cons: Slightly fewer features than higher-end models

Yamaha’s P-45 is a long-standing favourite among beginners and piano teachers. Like the Casio, it features:

• 88 fully weighted keys with Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action

• Yamaha's AWM stereo sampling for authentic piano sound

• Simple, no-fuss interface

The Yamaha P-45 provides a more "traditional" piano experience and is often recommended by music teachers for that reason. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the Casio but feels very stable and well-built.

Pros: Excellent key feel, realistic piano tone, teacher-approved
Cons: Larger footprint, fewer sounds than more advanced models

At first glance, the Gear4music VisionKey 200 is appealing thanks to its very low price point. However, there’s a critical drawback:

• Non-weighted keys (synth-action)

• Some models only feature 61 keys (not a full piano range)

• Basic sounds and limited dynamics

While this might be fine for casual playing or keyboard-style music, it’s not suitable for proper piano practice . The lack of weighted keys means students won’t develop the finger strength, control, or technique required for real piano playing. Worse still, transitioning to a real piano later can feel jarring and discouraging.

Pros: Very affordable, lightweight
Cons: Not suitable for learning piano properly, lacks full key range, no weighted action

If you're just starting out or buying for a child who may or may not stick with lessons, the temptation to go for the cheapest keyboard is understandable. But as we've seen, this can end up doing more harm than good.

That’s why we offer a rental scheme for quality digital pianos like the Casio CDP-S110 and Yamaha P-45 —giving students access to proper weighted-key instruments at a low monthly cost. This way, you can start learning with the right equipment without making a big upfront investment.

Benefits of renting with us:

• Low monthly cost

• No long-term commitment

• Option to buy later with rental fees deducted

• Teacher-approved instruments

If you’re serious about learning piano or want to give your child the best chance to succeed then weighted keys are non-negotiable . While the Gear4music VisionKey 200 might look like a deal, it simply doesn't provide the foundation needed for proper piano technique.

Instead, consider the Casio CDP-S110 or Yamaha P-45 , and take advantage of our affordable rental scheme. It’s the smartest way to start your musical journey with the right tools, right from the beginning.