We should say this upfront: The Piano Gallery does not sell new Casio digital pianos. We are an acoustic piano shop in Faringdon, Oxfordshire. That is exactly why you can trust what follows, because we have nothing to gain from you buying one Casio over another.

Are Casio digital pianos any good?

Yes, genuinely. Casio used to be the budget brand people grew out of, but the modern Privia range changed that. For the money, they are some of the best value digital pianos you can buy.

• Casio CDP-S110 (around £300 to £350): a starter instrument with 88 weighted keys. Basic, but honest.
• Casio Privia PX-S1100 (around £500 to £600): remarkably slim, good weighted action, and probably the best portable digital piano near £500.
• Casio Privia PX-870 (around £800 to £900): a furniture style cabinet, stronger speakers, and a more convincing sound. Suits a family living room.

What a Casio will not give you

Every digital piano, Casio included, simulates the feel of a real piano action rather than having one. Beginners rarely notice at first. After a year or two of progress, most players do: the touch has a ceiling, and the sound comes from speakers rather than a soundboard filling the room. That is the point where many of our customers come to us to trade up.

The alternative worth knowing about

If the appeal of a Casio is quiet practice, there is another route: a silent piano. It is a real acoustic piano with headphones, so you practise silently on a genuine action. And if the appeal is price, our used acoustic pianos start from under £1,000, which overlaps with the top of the Privia range. Our guide to digital vs acoustic walks through the decision honestly.

Need to make your piano quieter?

If a full silent system isn't necessary, a Celeste rail (sometimes called a practice pedal) can be fitted to many acoustic pianos. This places a strip of felt between the hammers and strings, softening the sound and reducing the volume—ideal for practising without disturbing the rest of the household.  While it won't make the piano completely silent, many people find it reduces the volume enough for comfortable everyday practice.The cost to supply and fit a Celeste rail is typically £150–£200, depending on the piano. If you're unsure whether your piano is suitable, we're always happy to advise.

Try before you decide.

Whatever you are leaning towards, come and play a real piano first at our Faringdon showroom. It costs nothing, children are welcome, and you will know within five minutes what your hands prefer. If you buy a Casio and outgrow it later, we take digital pianos in part exchange.