Yamaha vs. Kawai Piano: Which is Better in 2025? Singapore Buyer’s Guide
- liewhuijie
- 17 hours ago
- 3 min read
When it comes to buying a piano in Singapore, two names dominate the conversation: Yamaha and Kawai. Both brands are known for their precision Japanese craftsmanship, wide range of models, and long-lasting quality. But which one is right for you?
At Melodious Piano Boutique, we help hundreds of students, parents, and piano enthusiasts choose the best piano for their needs. In this guide, we’ll give you an expert breakdown of Yamaha vs. Kawai — including tone, touch, pricing, second-hand tips, and which models are best suited for beginners, serious learners, and adults.
Brand Overview: Yamaha and Kawai
Feature | Yamaha | Kawai |
Founded | 1887 | 1927 |
Reputation | Versatile, consistent, widely available | Rich tone, innovative action mechanisms |
Target Market | All levels – from beginner to concert level | Students, professionals, classical players |
Known For | Bright, clear tone; solid resale value | Warm tone, premium key action |
Tone Quality: Bright vs. Warm
One of the most noticeable differences is in tone character.
Yamaha pianos are known for their brighter, clearer tone, popular among pop, contemporary, and modern classical players.
Kawai offers a warmer, mellower sound, preferred by classical musicians and those who like a deeper, fuller tone.
Which is better?
Neither – it’s personal. If possible, try both to find what resonates with your ear. You can also book a free mini session with us at our Boutique to test tone side by side.
Touch & Key Action: Different Feel for Different Fingers
Key Action | Yamaha | Kawai |
Upright | Standard action, responsive, light-medium feel | Ultra-Responsive Action (e.g., Millennium III) – more weighted, premium feel |
Digital | Graded Hammer Standard (GHS), GH3 | Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHC II) |
Grand | Quick return, stable mechanics | Carbon composite actions – long lifespan, smooth |
Teacher Tip:
Kawai’s keys tend to feel heavier, which can help build finger strength in young learners.
Yamaha’s lighter keys may suit adult beginners or students working on speed and agility.
Price Comparison: New & Second Hand
Category | Yamaha Price Range (SGD) | Kawai Price Range (SGD) |
Digital Pianos | $1,000 – $6,000 | $1,200 – $6,800 |
Upright Pianos | $3,500 – $13,000 | $3,800 – $14,000 |
Grand Pianos | $18,000 – $70,000+ | $19,000 – $80,000+ |
2nd-Hand (U1/U3 etc) | $2,800 – $6,500 | $3,200 – $7,000 |
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a simple decision guide:
Need/Preference | Best Brand |
Brighter tone, pop/contemporary | Yamaha |
Warm tone, classical, romantic | Kawai |
Lighter key action (easier for kids) | Yamaha |
Premium feel, stronger fingers | Kawai |
Budget digital piano | Yamaha/Kawai |
Best resale value in Singapore | Yamaha (U1/U3) |
🎁 Bonus: We currently have a all certified Yamaha U1 and Yamaha U3 and Kawai upright grand in stock at special rates. Enquire here.
Second-Hand Buying Tips
✅ Always check serial number and model origin (e.g., Japan-made U1 vs. Indonesia-made)
✅ Country of reconditioned (e.g., Japan, Vietnam, China etc)
✅ Avoid pianos with signs of water damage, sticky keys, or noisy action
✅ Buy from a reputable studio with proper after-sales service
🧽 Every piano at Melodious Piano Boutique includes:
Free professional tuning
Cleaning & polishing
Delivery + bench
Final Thoughts: Yamaha or Kawai?
Both Yamaha and Kawai are world-class brands. The right piano depends on your goals, taste, and touch. Whether you’re buying for your child’s lessons, your own adult learning journey, or an upgrade from digital to acoustic, we can help you make the right choice.
✅ Visit Melodious Piano Boutique @ 362 Upper Paya Lebar Road
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