88 Keys vs 73 Keys Digital Pianos: Which Should You Buy?
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
When choosing between an 88 Keys vs 73 Keys digital piano, you need to understand how key count and action shape your playing. Both instruments offer weighted keys for a realistic touch and include sustain pedals for expression. The main difference lies in the number of keys and the specific action type. This guide compares the Yamaha P71 and the Artesia A-73 to help you decide which layout fits your needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano | Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Keys | 88 | 73 |
| Key Action | Weighted | Semi-weighted |
| Form Factor | Full | Portable |
| Weight | 25 pounds | Under 14 lbs |
| Connectivity | Not listed | USB MIDI |
| Included Accessories | Sustain pedal, power supply | Dust cover, sheet clip, stickers, headphones |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano if
- You need a full 88-key range for classical or advanced repertoire.
- You prefer a heavier weighted action that mimics an acoustic piano.
- You want a dedicated piano-style instrument without extra portability features.
Choose Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard if
- You need a lighter, more portable keyboard for travel or small spaces.
- You value included accessories like headphones and a music stand.
- You want USB MIDI connectivity for connecting to other devices.
Verdict: Choose the Yamaha P71 if you require a full 88-key range and a standard weighted action for serious practice. Select the Artesia A-73 if portability and included accessories like headphones are your top priorities. Both offer weighted keys, but the key count and form factor define their best use cases.
88 Keys vs 73 Keys Comparison
Number of keys
The Yamaha P71 features a full 88-key layout, matching the standard acoustic piano. This provides the complete range required for classical repertoire and advanced technique. The Artesia A-73 offers 73 keys. This shorter span suits portability and modern pop styles but lacks the lowest and highest octaves. If you plan to play standard piano literature, the Yamaha P71 is the only option. The Artesia A-73 is better for gigging musicians who prioritize carrying weight over full range. The extra 15 keys on the Yamaha P71 matter for serious study.
Key action
Both instruments use weighted keys to simulate acoustic resistance. The Yamaha P71 specifies a weighted action, designed to replicate the feel of an acoustic piano for dynamic control. The Artesia A-73 uses semi-weighted keys. While still velocity sensitive, semi-weighted action typically offers less resistance than fully weighted mechanisms. The Yamaha P71 provides a more authentic piano touch for beginners and intermediates. The Artesia A-73 feels lighter, which some players prefer for speed or synth work. For traditional piano practice, the Yamaha P71 weighted action is superior.
Portability
The Artesia A-73 is designed for easy transport. It weighs under 14 pounds and includes a portable form factor. The Yamaha P71 weighs 25 pounds and measures 52.3 inches in length. This makes the Yamaha P71 heavier and bulkier to move. The Artesia A-73 is ideal for students or performers who travel frequently. The Yamaha P71 is better suited for a stationary home setup. If you need to carry your instrument to lessons or gigs, the Artesia A-73 is the clear choice. For a dedicated home desk, the Yamaha P71 size is manageable.
Included accessories
Both units include essential items for immediate use. The Yamaha P71 comes with a sustain pedal and power supply. The Artesia A-73 includes a sustain pedal, headphones, a dust cover, a music sheet clip, and key stickers. The Artesia A-73 provides a more comprehensive starter package with visual aids and protective gear. The Yamaha P71 requires you to purchase headphones separately. The Artesia A-73 is ready for silent practice right out of the box. The Yamaha P71 is sufficient for players who already own headphones.
Sound output
The Artesia A-73 features built-in speakers, specifically four 10-watt units. This allows you to play without external amplification or headphones. The Yamaha P71 does not list built-in speakers in its specifications. You must connect the Yamaha P71 to headphones or an external amplifier to hear sound. The Artesia A-73 is more versatile for casual playing in a room. The Yamaha P71 requires additional equipment for audio output. For immediate audible feedback without extra gear, the Artesia A-73 has the advantage.
Which digital piano fits your needs
Classical pianists needing full range
The Yamaha P71 includes 88 weighted keys, matching a standard acoustic piano. This layout provides the complete range required for advanced classical repertoire. Its touch-sensitive keys allow for dynamic expression, while the included sustain pedal supports nuanced performance. You get a traditional playing experience without extra bulk.
Beginners wanting portable practice gear
The Artesia A-73 weighs under 14 lbs, making it highly portable for students or performers. It features 73 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys and includes headphones for silent practice. The compact size suits travel, while the built-in speakers deliver room-filling sound. You start playing immediately with included accessories.
Players seeking integrated learning tools
This model includes 20 Melodics courses to help improve piano skills at your own pace. It offers 12 high-quality voice samples and USB MIDI connectivity for device integration. The semi-weighted action provides a natural feel for beginners. You gain structured learning support alongside versatile sound options in a lightweight package.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano | Beginners seeking weighted keys and portability | Check price of Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano on Amazon |
| 2 | Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard | beginners needing portable practice | Check price of Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard on Amazon |
The products compared
Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano
Best for: Beginners seeking weighted keys and portability
- Number of Keys
- 88 Keys (what this guide is about)
- Key Action
- Weighted action
- Preset Tones
- 10
- Pedal Type
- Sustain pedal
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 52.3 × 11.5 × 6 inches
View on Amazon: Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano Affiliate link
The Yamaha P71 is an 88-key digital piano with a weighted action that replicates the feel of an acoustic instrument. It offers 10 preset voices, including a grand piano sound, and supports Dual Mode for layering tones. Weighing 25 pounds, it includes a sustain pedal and power supply. This full-size keyboard suits players seeking a traditional key count and touch-sensitive response for practice or performance.
Pros
- 88 weighted keys for acoustic piano feel
- 10 preset voices including grand piano
- Dual Mode for layered sounds
- Includes sustain pedal and power supply
Cons
- Only 10 preset tones available
- No Bluetooth connectivity listed
- Basic one-button operation limits advanced control
Good fit if
- You need a full 88-key weighted keyboard
- You want a simple, streamlined interface
- You prefer a lightweight portable design
Skip if
- You require more than 10 sound voices
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You want advanced control features beyond one-button operation
Verdict: Yamaha P71 88-Key Digital Piano is a solid choice for beginners or students who prioritize authentic weighted key feel and portability over extensive sound libraries or smart features.
Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard
Best for: beginners needing portable practice
- Number of Keys
- 73 Keys (what this guide is about)
- Key Action
- Semi-weighted
- Preset Tones
- 12
- Connectivity
- USB MIDI
- Speaker System
- 4 x 10W
- Form Factor
- Portable
View on Amazon: Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard Affiliate link
The Artesia A-73 is a portable 73-key digital piano with semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys. It features 12 preset tones and a 4 x 10W speaker system. The unit weighs under 14 lbs and includes USB MIDI connectivity. It comes with Melodics courses and accessories like headphones. This model suits beginners seeking a lightweight instrument for practice or travel.
Pros
- 73 semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keys
- 4 x 10W built-in speakers
- USB MIDI connectivity
- Includes Melodics learning courses
- Under 14 lbs portable weight
Cons
- Only 73 keys instead of full 88
- Semi-weighted action, not fully weighted
- Limited to 12 preset tones
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight keyboard for travel
- You are a beginner using Melodics
- You prefer a compact 73-key layout
Skip if
- You require a full 88-key range
- You need fully weighted hammer action
- You want extensive sound libraries
Verdict: Artesia A-73 73-Key Portable Keyboard is a compact option for beginners who prioritize portability and learning tools over a full 88-key range. It fits players who need a lightweight instrument for travel or small spaces.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Yamaha P71 88-Key Weighted Digital Piano | Artesia A-73 Portable Semi-Weighted Keyboard |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Keys | 88 | 73 |
| Key Action | Weighted action | Semi-weighted |
| Preset Tones | 10 | 12 |
| Pedal Type | Sustain pedal | not stated |
| Connectivity | not stated | USB MIDI |
| Speaker System | not stated | 4 x 10W |
| Form Factor | not stated | Portable |
| Target Audience | not stated | Beginners |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 52.3 × 11.5 × 6 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 25 pounds | not stated |
| Size | Full | 73-key+ |
| Model | P71B | A-73 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I play advanced classical music on a 73-key keyboard?
No. The Artesia A-73 has only 73 keys, which limits your range. Advanced classical pieces often require the full 88-key span found on instruments like the Yamaha P71. If you need the complete lower and upper registers for complex repertoire, the shorter 73-key layout will restrict your options.
Is the key feel different between 88 and 73 keys?
Both options provide weighted keys for a realistic touch. The Yamaha P71 offers weighted action across its full 88 keys. The Artesia A-73 also features weighted, velocity-sensitive keys. You get authentic resistance in both cases, though the 73-key model is designed for portability rather than a full acoustic piano feel.
Which digital piano is better for small spaces?
The Artesia A-73 is more compact. It is designed as a portable keyboard, making it easier to fit in tight areas. The Yamaha P71 is larger, measuring 52.3 inches in length. If space is your primary constraint, the shorter 73-key layout offers a more manageable footprint for your room.
Do I need a sustain pedal for practice?
Yes. Both the Yamaha P71 and the Artesia A-73 include a sustain pedal. This accessory allows you to hold notes and create smoother transitions between chords. It is essential for expressive playing on both the 88-key and 73-key models, so you do not need to buy one separately.
Which instrument is easier to transport?
The Artesia A-73 is built for portability. It is a compact keyboard designed for travel or small spaces. The Yamaha P71 is heavier and longer. While portable, it is a full-size instrument. If you frequently move your gear, the shorter 73-key model is the more practical choice.
Can beginners use a 73-key piano to learn?
Yes. The Artesia A-73 is targeted at beginners who need portable practice tools. It offers velocity-sensitive keys to help you learn dynamics. However, you will miss some lower and higher notes. It is a solid start, but you may outgrow the limited range as you advance to more complex pieces.