Which is better for a beginner?

Both have 88 weighted keys and touch sensitivity. The Yamaha P-143B costs less and includes a footswitch, so it is the simpler first purchase. The Kawai ES120 adds three pedals sooner if you plan to follow piano method books that use them.

Is the Kawai ES120 worth the extra $69?

Yes if you will use Bluetooth, split mode, or the sostenuto and soft pedals. If you mainly practice piano with a sustain pedal, the Yamaha covers that for less.

Which has the better piano sound?

The Yamaha uses its CFIIIS concert grand sample with damper resonance, a well-known tone. The Kawai's sound engine is not detailed in the listed specs, so compare them in person if tone matters most.

Which is easier to carry?

The Yamaha is 24 lb 8 oz and 52 inches wide, so it fits in a gig bag or car seat. The Kawai is marketed as compact and lightweight, but its listed 1 lb weight is not a real figure.

Can I record with both?

Both record internally. The Yamaha also works as a USB audio interface at 44.1 kHz/16-bit stereo, so you can record straight into a computer. The Kawai records onboard and connects over USB and Bluetooth.

Do both work with piano apps?

Yes, both send MIDI over USB. The Kawai also connects over Bluetooth, which is handy for tablets without a cable.

Kawai ES120 Digital Piano vs Yamaha P-143B Digital Piano

Buy the Yamaha P-143B if you want the lower price and a proven CFIIIS piano sound; it is $499.99 at eBay as of November 5, 2026. Buy the Kawai ES120 if you need Bluetooth wireless, three pedals including half-pedal support, and a lighter console-style body; it is $569.00 at musicstore.com as of November 5, 2026. The gap is about $69, and neither has moved in price since early November.

Today the Yamaha P-143B Digital Piano costs $69.01 less at its best price.

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