Head-to-head · Best Digital Pianos

Yamaha P-225 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-225 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.3 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about Players wanting upgraded piano sounds with compact design — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Digital Pianos

Yamaha P-225

4.3

$869.98as of Jul 1

The Yamaha P-225 features an upgraded GHC (Graded Hammer Compact) action that's more compact and slightly lighter than the P-125's GHS action. Reviewers noted the new action feels solid and sturdy with less side-to-side play, though some found it springy and less enjoyable than the GHS. The piano delivers upgraded CFX grand piano sounds with VRM Lite, but the front-firing speakers produce a thinner tone compared to competitors like the DGX-670. While it offers better portability, the GHC action may not suit all players, particularly those with arthritis or preference for traditional action feel.

Strengths

— Upgraded piano sounds from the Yamaha CFX Grand engine with VRM Lite
— Fully weighted and graded dual sensor hammer action (GHC)
— Built-in audio interface via USB to host port

Watch-outs

— GHC action feels different and less enjoyable than GHS action for some players
— Front-firing speaker system produces thinner sound compared to DGX-670

$869.98 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #3 in Best Digital Pianos

Yamaha P45

4.1

$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

$714.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Yamaha P-225

Compared to the Yamaha P-145BT, the P-225 offers a more compact design and upgraded CFX grand piano sounds with VRM Lite, but it falls short in terms of action feel and speaker quality. While the P-145BT provides a quieter and smoother GHC action with Bluetooth support, the P-225's front-firing speakers produce a thinner tone and lacks the wireless connectivity features that make the P-145BT more versatile for modern users.

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

Spec	Yamaha P-225	Yamaha P45
Number Of Keys	88	88 fully weighted graded hammer action
Key Action	GHC (Graded Hammer Compact)	Graded Hammer Standard action
Polyphony	192 notes	64 notes
Sound Count	24	10
Connectivity	Bluetooth, USB, LR line outs	USB to Host, Headphone jack, Sustain Pedal jack
Speaker Output	7 W x 2	12W
Weight	25.4 lb (11.5 kg)	25.4 lb
Dimensions	—	1,326 x 295 x 154 mm

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