Kawai K-300 vs Yamaha U1

The Kawai K-300 and the Yamaha U1 are two of the most popular professional upright pianos in the world, and they land on most shortlists. Both are full-size Japanese uprights of almost exactly the same height, so the choice really comes down to feel and tone.

Tone and touch

Yamaha has a reputation for a clear, bright, precise tone that cuts through, part of why it is the default in so many teaching studios and exam halls. Kawai is usually described as a little warmer and more rounded. Neither is better, they are just different voices.

On touch, the modern K-300 uses Kawai’s composite action, which is very stable in changing humidity and feels smooth and even. The U1 uses a traditional all-wood action that many players love for its familiar feel. The honest answer is to play both.

Which should you buy?

If you want the safe, bright, resale-friendly choice that examiners and teachers know inside out, the Yamaha U1 is hard to beat. If you prefer a warmer tone and a very stable action, the Kawai K-300 is every bit as good. There is no wrong answer here.

Buy reconditioned and save

Both are expensive new. We sell reconditioned Japanese uprights for a good deal less, with our lifetime warranty, free ground-floor UK delivery, a free first tuning, a matching stool and 14-day free returns. Or ask us about a reconditioned Japanese Kawai.

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