Yamaha P-145 vs Alesis Recital Pro
We compare the Yamaha P-145 and the Alesis Recital Pro across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.
At a glance
| Yamaha P-145 | Alesis Recital Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| Best for | Beginners and improvers who want a realistic, weighted feel | Beginners and improvers who want a realistic, weighted feel |
| Not ideal for | Players wanting a premium acoustic feel or a furniture-style console | Players wanting a premium acoustic feel or a furniture-style console |
| Brand | Yamaha | Alesis |
Keys and Action
Yamaha P-145
Graded hammer compact keys on this digital piano use a fully weighted action. This gives 88-note coverage in a compact format, aiming for a more realistic piano-style resistance than a light synth-style touch. The Yamaha positions the P-145's weighted response as the key appeal, with a space-saving build measuring 12.9 cm deep and 132.6 cm wide. The main limitation is that compact fully weighted keys can still feel less substantial than full-size piano actions, and the precise key feel remains subjective.
Alesis Recital Pro
The Alesis is built around 88 full-sized hammer action keys, delivering a traditional piano feel. The touch response is adjustable so the action and dynamics can be tailored to a preferred playing style, and the pedal input supports sustain.
Sound and Tone
Yamaha P-145
Even as a compact beginner digital piano, the digital piano is designed to keep practice-sounding audio clear enough to follow parts and hear dynamics, using 10 quality voices to cover different styles. The sound character is intended to remain understandable at typical home levels, and the tone is described as changing with the player's touch, supported by its graded hammer action feel. The 10 voices help match practice needs, for example piano-focused playing versus other tones. However, a compact unit cannot replace the volume and resonance of a full upright or grand, so expectations should stay realistic.
Alesis Recital Pro
Sound from the digital piano comes through built-in 20 W speakers, designed to provide room-filling playback without an external amplification setup. This built-in speaker output supports normal home practice, since the piano does not require an extra sound system. For quieter listening, it includes a ¼ inch (6.35 mm) stereo headphone output. There is also a separate ¼ inch (6.35 mm) sustain pedal input, helping keep playing timing responsive. In the Alesis price discussion, the question of whether the built-in speakers suit a given room size comes up frequently, and for some players they will.
Built-in Voices and Features
Yamaha P-145
Built into the Yamaha, the main feature set is designed to support beginner practice with simple, practical tools. The instrument includes 10 quality voices for use across different playing styles, with voicing selection intended to cover common sounds without making setup complex. A metronome helps keep time, and a sustain pedal allows smoother note blending for practice passages. A basic recording workflow is supported through the Rec'n'Share app, which is linked with learning over 303 songs. The digital piano vs alternative models may feel limited if a player expects more advanced voice expansion.
Alesis Recital Pro
Built-in voices and learning tools are a key part of what the digital piano offers for beginners, because it includes twelve expertly crafted voices intended to help new players get started quickly. The Recital Pro is described as featuring educational tools designed to help beginners start performing faster. The keyboard uses 88 full-sized hammer-action keys with adjustable touch response, allowing a player to match their preferred feel. Voices can be used during practice sessions, including through stereo headphone output for quiet playing. On Amazon UK listings for the Alesis Recital Pro, these built-in features are presented in a straightforward way, although only basic details are provided.
Speakers and Volume
Yamaha P-145
The Yamaha P-145BUK's speaker and volume setup is designed for everyday practice. The compact design supports portability, with a weight of 12.3 kilograms and a cabinet measuring 26.8D x 132.6W x 12.9H cm. For most rooms, the built-in sound placement is set up to deliver clear, usable listening while practising, although maximum loudness details are not provided. Buyers should rely on personal testing through the Yamaha on Amazon UK, since a volume range is not included.
Alesis Recital Pro
A solid speaker setup matters for practice, and the Alesis includes built-in 20W speakers that deliver room-filling sound for everyday playing. This means there is no need to plug in an external amplifier just to hear the notes clearly. In the Alesis Recital Pro digital piano context, having sound ready on arrival also helps when space is limited. Volume control is straightforward. For quiet sessions, there is a ¼ inch stereo headphone output for private practice, while speaker output still needs to be managed by the player.
Connectivity and Apps
Yamaha P-145
Connectivity on the digital piano is straightforward, making it easier for beginners to plug in and start playing, although the manufacturer description only specifies an auxiliary connection and does not list any other ports. Pairing it with external sound systems relies on that auxiliary input. For learning, the P-145 supports recording via the Rec'n'Share App, which the manufacturer says provides access to 303 songs. This combination suits the best digital piano uk audience looking for guided practice.
Alesis Recital Pro
Connectivity on the Alesis supports both shared-room practice and private practice primarily via its stereo headphone output (¼ inch / 6.35 mm) and its sustain-pedal connection through a ¼ inch (6.35 mm) input. In the context of The digital piano comparisons, including searches for "best digital piano uk", the practical consideration is how it accommodates basic external gear. For quiet sessions, headphones connect to the stereo headphone output, and the sustain pedal can be connected to control note length. The sustain pedal is not included, although the input is supported, so buyers need to check what comes in the box.
Design and Portability
Yamaha P-145
Thanks to its compact build, the Yamaha is designed to fit where a traditional upright piano usually cannot, with the main benefit being a small footprint. At 26.8D x 132.6W x 12.9H cm, it is suited to tight rooms, hallways, or shared spaces. The unit weighs 12.3 kg, so moving it is possible for one person, although care is still needed. Painted or lacquered black The Yamaha P-145BUK digital piano styling keeps the look simple. Buyers comparing this digital piano price should note that transport is easier than a full-size upright, but some setup space is still required.
Alesis Recital Pro
Even when headphones and a sustain pedal cover most quiet-practice needs, the way this digital piano looks and moves matters for where it gets used, such as a bedroom, a practice room, or a small studio. With 88 full-size hammer-action keys and a premium, robust mechanism, it feels stable on a stand, though it is not described as lightweight. The cabinet design is built for daily reliability, and the chrome sustain pedal action supports consistent setup. For players looking for a best weighted digital piano, the included pedal and polarity switch access support quick compatibility checks.
Who Is This Digital Piano For?
Yamaha P-145
Because the Yamaha is built to sit in smaller rooms, it is aimed at players who need a practical piano that still provides a weighted feel. It is frequently considered a best digital piano for beginners because it offers 88 weighted compact keys, 10 voices, and a metronome for steady practice. Beginners can record with the Rec'n'Share app and listen back to improve timing, and the included footswitch supports sustain. The Yamaha P-145BUK may feel limited for advanced players seeking more sound and features.
Alesis Recital Pro
Who is the Alesis aimed at, and who might find it less suitable? It suits people who want a top digital piano for beginners, especially those learning on 88 full-sized hammer action keys with adjustable touch response, and who like twelve voices plus built-in educational features. It is also practical for quiet practice, because it offers a ¼ inch stereo headphone output and 20 W built-in speakers. It may be less suitable for advanced players who require features beyond the stated inputs, or for buyers expecting an included sustain pedal, since no sustain pedal is included. For parents, it is sized for home lessons. The question "is the Alesis Recital Pro any good" depends on matching these priorities to the buyer's needs.
Yamaha P-145: pros
- Graded hammer action (fully weighted)
- Connectivity: Auxiliary
- Compact for home use
- Straightforward to set up and play
Cons
- Stand, bench and pedal may cost extra
- Built-in speakers rarely match headphone sound quality
Alesis Recital Pro: pros
- Hammer-action weighted keys
- Connectivity: headphone output
- Bundle includes pedal, headphones
- Straightforward to set up and play
Cons
- Built-in speakers rarely match headphone sound quality
Our verdict
Our pick is the Yamaha P-145 (our score 9.4/10) - A practical digital piano with graded hammer action (fully weighted), best judged on how the keys feel for the way you play. The Alesis Recital Pro is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.