Verdict
Head-to-head · Best Digital Pianos

Yamaha P-145BT vs Yamaha P45

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Yamaha P-145BT comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.6 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about fit for purpose — read the strengths below before deciding.

Yamaha P-145BT
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Digital Pianos
Yamaha P-145BT
$469.99as of Jul 1

The Yamaha P-145BT stands as a top recommendation for beginners in 2026, offering a refined Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) action that's quieter and smoother than its predecessor. Reviewers praised its compatibility with the Smart Pianist app and the addition of Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music streaming and app control. While the built-in speakers are adequate for small spaces, they're not exceptional, and the 64-note polyphony could limit advanced users. The P-145BT's key features include USB audio interface, triple pedal compatibility, and battery power option, making it ideal for those practicing in quiet environments or needing portability. It's particularly suited for total beginners and adults returning to piano, though those seeking maximum sound quality might find the speakers lacking for larger rooms.

Strengths
  • Fully weighted Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) action provides quiet, smooth, and lighter key response compared to previous GHS action
  • Built-in USB audio interface supports recording directly into music software with zero latency
  • Compatible with Yamaha Smart Pianist app and Yamaha RecNShare app for enhanced learning and recording features
Watch-outs
  • Speakers are good but not exceptional, requiring headphones or external speakers for larger spaces
  • 64-note polyphony may be limiting for advanced classical players using heavy sustain pedal techniques
Yamaha P45
Ranked #3 in Best Digital Pianos
Yamaha P45
$714.99as of Jul 1

The Yamaha P-45 is an entry-level digital piano that offers a fully weighted graded hammer action keyboard, making it a solid choice for beginners seeking acoustic piano feel. Reviewers noted its 88-key keyboard with graded hammer action and 10 instrument voices including grand pianos and electric pianos. The piano's 64-note polyphony and 12W speaker power support responsive playing and adequate volume for home use. However, its function controls are accessed through piano keys rather than buttons, which some find inconvenient. It's best suited for beginners and intermediate players looking for a quality instrument at an affordable price, though those wanting more advanced features like split mode should consider alternatives.

Strengths
  • 88 fully weighted graded hammer action keys that approximate the feel of an acoustic piano
  • 10 built-in instrument voices including 2 grand pianos and 2 electric pianos
  • 64-note polyphony allowing for complex playing without sound drop-out
Watch-outs
  • Function controls are accessed via piano keys rather than dedicated buttons, requiring a manual reference
  • No bass guitar voice or split mode for layered playing

How they stack up

Yamaha P45

The Yamaha P-45 provides a fully weighted graded hammer action that's similar to the P-145BT's GHC action, but it lacks the advanced connectivity features, USB audio interface, and Smart Pianist app support that make the P-145BT more appealing for modern users. While both are entry-level pianos, the P-145BT offers better portability and wireless capabilities, making it more suitable for those practicing in quiet environments.

Specs side-by-side

SpecYamaha P-145BTYamaha P45
Number Of Keys88 fully weighted88 fully weighted graded hammer action
Key ActionGraded Hammer Compact (GHC)Graded Hammer Standard action
Polyphony64 notes64 notes
Sound Count10 sounds10
ConnectivityUSB audio/MIDI, BluetoothUSB to Host, Headphone jack, Sustain Pedal jack
Speaker Output2x7W12W
Weight24.5 lb25.4 lb
Dimensions52.2 (133 cm) x 10.5 (26.8 cm) x 5 (12.9 cm)1,326 x 295 x 154 mm
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