Yamaha vs Yamaha YDP-S35
We compare the Yamaha and the Yamaha YDP-S35 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 | Yamaha YDP-S35 | |
|---|---|---|
| Our score | 9.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 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 | Yamaha |
Keys and Action
Yamaha
This digital piano is built around an 88-key keyboard with a graded hammer action, designed to feel more like an acoustic piano than a basic synth-style action. As the Yamaha, it is aimed at players who want more resistance across the range, with heavier response in the lower keys. This fully weighted feel supports practice focused on dynamics and phrasing, particularly for beginners working on standard piano technique. However, it remains a digital instrument, so touch consistency depends on setup and playing style. At 39.2kg, stability is typically good on a standard stand, with dimensions of 135.7 x 42.2 x 81.5cm.
Yamaha YDP-S35
The Yamaha features 88 graded hammer-action keys designed to emulate the feel of a full-size acoustic piano. This touch is highlighted as a key benefit for students and returning players, because differing key weights are intended to reflect the way hammers rise and fall. The keys are built for a consistent feel across the range, and the full-size layout supports learning standard repertoire. A potential drawback is that the heavier action may be tiring for some beginners, particularly during longer practice sessions.
Sound and Tone
Yamaha
Sound and tone on the digital piano are based on a CFX concert grand piano sound, with the aim of delivering a rich, full character rather than a thin digital piano tone. The manufacturer highlights a long, narrow aperture in the cabinet intended to project sound from inside the piano, creating three-dimensional resonance. Intelligent Acoustic Control is designed to help keep the balance of sounds even at different volume levels, which can matter during practice. A stereophonic optimiser effect is intended to widen the space in the sound, including through headphones, though exact tonal depth varies by playing style. Overall, the Yamaha digital piano prioritises realistic presence.
Yamaha YDP-S35
Sound and tone on the digital piano are built around the CFX concert grand piano sound. The instrument is designed to retain that character as it is played. The Yamaha review notes that the digital piano aims to reproduce a similar feel to an acoustic piano, while balancing volume. Virtual Resonance Modeling Lite simulates tones created when key presses and pedals affect string vibrations, and the Stereophonic Optimiser adds a more natural, spacious sound. For quieter practice, Intelligent Acoustic Control helps maintain a workable mix. Through headphones, the output stays controlled, with subtle details changing depending on playing intensity.
Built-in Voices and Features
Yamaha
Built-in voices and features on the digital piano focus on beginner-friendly home playback with a playable piano sound. The instrument includes a CFX concert grand piano sound, and three pedals for standard playing techniques. Intelligent Acoustic Control is designed to help balance the sound at different volume levels. A Stereophonic Optimiser effect supports a more natural, spacious tone, including when using headphones.
Yamaha YDP-S35
Beyond the 88-key graded hammer action, the digital piano concentrates its built-in features on realistic piano-style sound control and practical practice tools. The Yamaha YDP-S35 uses the CFX concert grand piano sound, with its keyboard and three pedals designed to reflect acoustic-style touch. Virtual Resonance Modeling Lite simulates string and soundboard vibrations, responding to key and pedal timing. Intelligent Acoustic Control adjusts the sound balance across different listening volumes, while the Stereophonic Optimiser aims for a natural, spacious presentation, including when using headphones. A set of 50 Classical Music Masterpieces is included for learning.
Speakers and Volume
Yamaha
The Yamaha YDP-145's YDP-145 delivers its piano sound through an internal speaker system designed to work for room listening and for private practice. In Yamaha YDP-145 2026 reviews, the speaker setup is discussed alongside an Intelligent Acoustic Control system, which aims to keep sound balanced at different volume levels. It can additionally apply a stereophonic optimiser effect, helping notes feel more spacious. For quieter sessions, the headphone output supports silent practice, so the internal speakers need not be used. Flexibility is a key strength, while maximum clarity at low volume still depends on the room.
Yamaha YDP-S35
Speakers and volume influence how the ARIUS YDP-S35 performs in different spaces, at different listening levels, and when used with headphones. The Yamaha's built-in sound output is designed to stay balanced, and Intelligent Acoustic Control aims to help suit softer or louder playing. When headphones are used, the stereophonic optimiser is intended to create a more natural, spacious sound. For room placement, the piano's slim depth and overall dimensions (135.3 x 29.6 x 99.2cm) and weight (38.2kg) can help with positioning closer to walls, although results still depend on the specific layout. Buyers looking at The digital piano on Amazon UK should check the volume level in their own home setup.
Connectivity and Apps
Yamaha
Connectivity on the Yamaha (DP145B) is practical and setup-focused. It includes a headphone output, making silent practice straightforward, and the box also contains a pedal that supports standard playing. There is no stated support for app control, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, so buyers looking for phone-based features will not find any built-in mobile connectivity support in the published specifications. In Yamaha YDP-145 Amazon listings, this simplicity can read as a benefit, with The digital piano versus comparisons commonly drawing attention to the absence of mobile integration.
Yamaha YDP-S35
Connectivity on the Yamaha is designed around simple, in-home practice. Headphone output supports silent sessions, and the supplied pedal provides basic control. There is no mention of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or app support in the provided specifications, so wireless syncing and connected smartphone features are not indicated. For buyers comparing the digital piano with other "best digital piano UK" options, the key consideration is that expectations should centre on direct playing rather than on connected tools.
Design and Portability
Yamaha
The Yamaha (DP145B) is designed as a compact home digital piano, aiming to fit into a typical room while retaining a full-size feel. It uses 88 fully weighted graded hammer keys, keeping a familiar layout, but the cabinet remains modest. The dimensions are 135.7 x 42.2 x 81.5 cm and the unit weighs 39.2 kg, making it difficult to move on its own. The black finish suits most rooms, and its narrow back aperture helps sound project from inside. For buyers comparing the digital piano price to the best The Yamaha digital piano options, portability is a clear trade-off.
Yamaha YDP-S35
This digital piano is designed with a modern, space-friendly silhouette that sits comfortably in a typical home without overwhelming the room. Measuring 135.3 x 29.6 x 99.2cm and weighing 38.2kg, it is sized for indoor living spaces, but moving it is easier with two people. The black lacquered finish is straightforward and consistent, which supports practical placement against walls or on stands. Portability remains limited, as there is no built-in handle, and the weight must be considered when assessing the Yamaha price and the Yamaha YDP-S35 cheapest options.
Who Is This Digital Piano For?
Yamaha
Who is the digital piano (DP145B) most suitable for in the UK, and who should consider alternatives? The Yamaha YDP-145 targets home learners who want an 88-key, fully weighted graded hammer action feel, plus three pedals for basic training and headphone practice. With headphone output and a compact footprint (135.7 x 42.2 x 81.5cm, 39.2kg), it is well suited to quieter apartments and to anyone building a long-term piano habit. It is a strong digital piano for beginners who prioritise realistic touch and a rich CFX concert grand sound, so is the Yamaha any good? Yes, for many buyers, but people who need something easier to transport may prefer smaller alternatives.
Yamaha YDP-S35
The digital piano suits a range of players, especially those looking for an 88-key, fully weighted (graded hammer action) feel that is closer to an acoustic piano than entry-level models. It fits a beginner digital piano brief for players who want steady technique development, as the weighted action and piano-style sound are designed for regular practice. It also suits intermediate learners who may prefer the CFX concert grand character, with headphone output for quieter sessions at home. Buyers should note that it is a home-focused instrument, where the 38.2 kg weight and slim dimensions (135.3 x 29.6 x 99.2 cm) prioritise stability over portability.
Yamaha: pros
- Graded hammer action (fully weighted)
- Full board (88 keys)
- Connectivity: headphone output
- Bundle includes pedal, headphones
Cons
- Built-in speakers rarely match headphone sound quality
Yamaha YDP-S35: pros
- Graded hammer action (fully weighted)
- Full board (88 keys)
- Connectivity: headphone output
- Bundle includes pedal, headphones
Cons
- Built-in speakers rarely match headphone sound quality
Our verdict
Our pick is the Yamaha YDP-S35 (our score 9.5/10) - A practical digital piano with graded hammer action (fully weighted) and 88 keys, best judged on how the keys feel for the way you play. The Yamaha is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.