Casio PX-870 vs Roland F701

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re stuck in that familiar rabbit hole: comparing endless models of digital pianos, trying to figure out which one makes sense for your home, budget, and musical goals. Two names that come up again and again in the mid-range console-style category are the Casio PX-870 and the Roland F701.

Both are slim, stylish instruments designed for the living room as much as the practice room. Both promise a satisfying piano experience without the price tag (or weight) of an acoustic upright. But which one actually delivers more bang for your buck? And more importantly: which one feels right to play?

I’ve spent time with both instruments — played them, listened to them, and lived with them in real-world conditions. This review is my honest, detailed comparison across every major category: design, keyboard action, sound, speakers, functions, connectivity, and overall value. By the end, you should have a clear sense of which one fits your needs better.

Grab a coffee, because this is going to be thorough.

Casio PX-870 vs Roland F701 Comparison Chart

If you click the links below, under the product images, you will be redirected to Amazon.com. In case you then decide to buy anything, Amazon.com will pay me a commission. This doesn’t affect the honesty of this review in any way though.

Feature	Casio PX-870	Roland F701
	Check the best price on Amazon	Check the best price on Amazon
Keyboard Action	Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II, simulated ebony/ivory keytops	PHA-4 Standard with Escapement, ivory-feel keytops
Keys	88 weighted keys	88 weighted keys
Sound Engine	AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) with multi-dimensional morphing	SuperNATURAL Piano Sound (modeling)
Polyphony	256 notes	256 notes
Voices / Tones	19 instrument tones	324 instrument tones
Speakers	4 speakers (2 × 12 cm + 2 × 4 cm), 40 W total output	2 speakers (2 × 12 cm), 24 W total output
Design	Slim cabinet, sliding key cover, traditional upright look	Slim, contemporary design, sliding cover, minimalistic style
Dimensions (W × D × H)	1,393 × 299 × 801 mm	1,360 × 345 × 781 mm
Weight	34.3 kg (75.6 lbs)	36.0 kg (79.4 lbs)
Recording	MIDI recording (2-track, 1 song), Audio recording (WAV to USB flash drive)	MIDI recording (3-track, 1 song), no direct audio recording
Connectivity	USB to Host, USB to Device, 2 × headphone jacks	USB to Host, USB to Device, 2 × headphone jacks, Bluetooth MIDI & Audio
Headphone Features	Headphone Mode (EQ optimization)	Headphones 3D Ambience
Pedals	3-pedal unit (damper, soft, sostenuto), half-damper supported	3-pedal unit (damper, soft, sostenuto), half-damper supported
Included Accessories	Music stand, AC adapter, pedal unit	Music stand, AC adapter, pedal unit
Color Options	Black, White, Walnut	Black, White, Light Oak
Best For	Traditional practice, straightforward recording, powerful sound projection	Modern practice with apps, wireless convenience, nuanced playing
My individual reviews	Casio PX-870 review	Roland F701 review

Design & Build Quality

When people shop for digital pianos, they often focus on action and sound first — and rightfully so. But design and build quality shouldn’t be an afterthought. A console-style digital piano like the Casio PX-870 or the Roland F701 isn’t just a musical instrument; it’s also a piece of furniture that sits in your living room, bedroom, or studio. You’ll look at it every day, so its design matters just as much as how it feels under your fingers. Build quality also plays a big role in how stable and satisfying the instrument feels when you play, and how long it will last before it starts showing wear.

In this section, I’ll take a deep dive into how both pianos stack up in terms of size, style, materials, finishes, controls, and overall sturdiness.

Size and footprint

The Casio PX-870 is part of Casio’s Privia line, which is known for slim profiles. Measuring only about 11.8 inches in depth, the PX-870 is one of the slimmest console-style pianos you can buy. This is a huge selling point for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited space. You can comfortably fit it against a wall in a small living room or bedroom without it jutting out awkwardly. Its compact footprint also makes the room feel less “cluttered” compared to bulkier digital pianos or traditional uprights.

The Roland F701 is also slim — around 13.6 inches deep — but it has a slightly more substantial presence than the PX-870. It’s still space-friendly, but the extra depth gives it a bit more stability and a more furniture-like feel. If you’re working with extremely tight quarters, the Casio has the edge. But if you’ve got a bit of breathing room, the Roland’s added depth makes it look less like a “portable dressed up in a cabinet” and more like an intentional home instrument.

Cabinet design

The PX-870 uses Casio’s traditional Privia cabinet design: a clean, rectangular frame with a slide-type key cover. The sliding cover is practical — you just pull it down to hide the keys completely when you’re done playing. It’s a smooth mechanism that protects the keyboard from dust while keeping the piano’s silhouette simple. The downside is that sliding covers can sometimes rattle a bit if the piano isn’t assembled perfectly, though I didn’t notice major issues with the PX-870.

The Roland F701, on the other hand, takes a slightly different approach. Instead of a sliding cover, it has a folding lid that flips down to cover the keys. When open, that lid doubles as the music rest, which is a neat design trick. It makes the whole instrument look cleaner, especially when closed. When the cover is down, the F701 looks almost like a slim sideboard rather than a piano. That subtle disguise makes it an easier fit for a modern living room, especially if you don’t want the piano to dominate the space visually.

Materials and build feel

Neither of these pianos is made from solid wood — that’s just not realistic at their price points. Both use MDF (medium-density fiberboard) with veneer or laminate finishes. That said, not all MDF instruments are created equal.

The Casio PX-870, once assembled, feels solid and stable. The panels fit together cleanly, and the unit doesn’t wobble under normal play. The surface finish is smooth, though it’s fairly standard — the black model in particular can look a little “plastic” under certain lighting. The walnut version is warmer and helps hide fingerprints better.

The Roland F701 feels a notch more premium in terms of texture and design choices. The surfaces have a subtle grain that mimics real wood better than Casio’s finish. It doesn’t look expensive, but it looks intentional. When you run your hand over the F701, it has that matte, furniture-like feel that makes it blend naturally into a home environment. Structurally, it’s sturdy, though like the Casio, it’s still MDF at heart. You won’t confuse it with a Yamaha Clavinova in terms of heft, but it’s stable enough for serious play.

Finishes and aesthetic options

Casio gives you three finish options for the PX-870: black, white, and walnut. The black is the most common, and while it’s simple and versatile, it does show dust and fingerprints easily. The white version looks clean and modern, especially in bright interiors, though it can look a bit stark in darker rooms. The walnut version is arguably the most charming, adding a slightly more homely touch that balances the otherwise minimal design.

Roland offers the F701 in black, white, and light oak. The light oak finish is particularly striking — it makes the piano look less like an electronic device and more like a Scandinavian-style piece of furniture. It’s the kind of color that blends well with modern interiors where light wood tones dominate. The black and white options are solid, but it’s the light oak that really sets the F701 apart from competitors like the PX-870.

Pedal unit and stability

Both pianos come with a built-in three-pedal system (soft, sostenuto, and damper with half-pedal support). The Casio PX-870’s pedals feel sturdy and have a decent amount of resistance. They’re good enough for daily practice, though serious players might notice that the sustain pedal doesn’t have the same level of refinement or weight as an acoustic upright.

Roland’s pedal unit feels slightly better underfoot. The pedals have a smoother motion and a firmer resistance, making half-pedaling more predictable. It’s a subtle difference, but if you use the pedals a lot — especially for classical or expressive pieces — you’ll appreciate the Roland’s consistency.

Control layout and usability

The PX-870 uses a set of physical buttons located discreetly on the left side above the keys. They’re small and unobtrusive, which helps keep the design minimal. The downside is that they’re not backlit, and you’ll need to remember some key combinations to access deeper functions. It’s functional but not exactly intuitive.

The Roland F701 goes for a more modern approach. Its controls are touch-sensitive buttons embedded into the left side panel. They light up when active, then fade away when not in use, giving the piano a very clean look. It feels a bit more futuristic, and it also makes the F701 easier to navigate for beginners. That said, touch controls can sometimes be less satisfying than pressing a physical button, especially if you’re the type who likes tactile feedback.

Assembly and portability

Both pianos ship flat-packed and require assembly. The PX-870 comes in a few large pieces — main keyboard unit, side panels, back panel, and pedal bar. Assembly takes around 30 to 40 minutes with two people, and once put together, it’s solid.

The F701 has a similar assembly process. Its panels are slightly bulkier due to the deeper cabinet, but it’s still manageable with two people. In terms of weight, both are in the same ballpark (around 80–90 pounds assembled), so they’re portable enough to move around the house but not something you’ll want to lug around frequently.

Overall aesthetic impression

The Casio PX-870 is functional, compact, and understated. It looks like a digital piano, but a tasteful one. It won’t wow guests, but it won’t clash with your space either.

The Roland F701, by contrast, feels like it was designed with interior decor in mind. Its lines are cleaner, its finishes more natural, and its touch-sensitive controls give it a sleek edge. In a modern living room, the F701 almost disappears into the environment — until you open the lid and start playing.

Verdict on design and build

If you prioritize space-saving and value, the Casio PX-870’s design will serve you well. It’s one of the slimmest console pianos out there, and for the price, it’s sturdy and practical.

But if you’re looking for something that feels more premium and blends seamlessly with modern furniture, the Roland F701 is the clear winner. Its finishes, control design, and thoughtful key cover mechanism put it a step ahead.

That said, both pianos are solidly built for their price range. Neither feels flimsy, and both should hold up well to years of practice. The real difference comes down to whether you want a purely functional instrument or one that doubles as a stylish piece of furniture.

Keyboard Action

If there’s one feature that makes or breaks a digital piano, it’s the keyboard action. Everything else—sound, speakers, design—matters, but if the keys don’t feel right, you won’t connect with the instrument. A good action invites you to play longer, helps you express dynamics naturally, and gives you the muscle memory to transition smoothly to an acoustic piano. A bad action, even on an otherwise capable instrument, can make practice frustrating and performances uninspiring.

The Casio PX-870 and Roland F701 both fall in the mid-range market, which means they’re designed to provide an action that satisfies beginners, motivates intermediates, and doesn’t turn off more advanced pianists. They’re not meant to rival high-end hybrid pianos, but they do aim to deliver a realistic experience that helps players build proper technique. Let’s break down each one in detail.

The Casio PX-870 action

Casio equips the PX-870 with its Tri-Sensor Scaled Hammer Action II. That’s a mouthful, but it basically tells us two things: the keys are weighted and graded to simulate an acoustic piano, and each key has three sensors that detect motion more precisely.

Weighted and graded means the lower keys feel heavier than the higher keys, just like on a real piano where the bass hammers are bigger and require more effort to strike. Casio’s implementation of this is convincing—when you play from low A up to high C, you can feel a gradual lightening in resistance. This is crucial for developing proper finger strength and control.

The triple-sensor system is another important feature. On cheaper keyboards with only two sensors, fast note repetitions can feel sluggish because the key has to return almost all the way up before it can be triggered again. With three sensors, the PX-870 can register repeated strikes more quickly, which is especially useful when playing trills, tremolos, or rapid repeated notes in classical repertoire. It doesn’t perfectly replicate the escapement and rebound of a grand piano, but for the price bracket, it’s quite good.

The keytops on the PX-870 are textured to mimic ebony and ivory. It’s not just cosmetic—the texture makes the keys grippier and less prone to feeling slippery when your fingers sweat. The surface is matte rather than glossy, which makes it feel more like an acoustic piano and less like a plasticky keyboard.

As for the overall feel, the PX-870’s action leans on the heavier side of medium. That can be a good thing for beginners because it builds strength, but some players might find it fatiguing after long practice sessions. It’s a little “thuddy,” meaning the key press bottoms out with more force than on some competitors. It’s not distracting, but you’ll notice the action doesn’t have the same subtlety as more expensive models.

The Roland F701 action

The Roland F701 uses the company’s PHA-4 Standard action. PHA stands for Progressive Hammer Action, and the “Standard” version is their entry-to-mid level offering, found in many Roland home pianos. Despite being “standard,” it’s actually very capable and considered one of the best in this price category.

Like Casio’s action, the PHA-4 is weighted and graded, so you’ll feel heavier resistance in the bass and lighter keys in the treble. Where Roland distinguishes itself is in the subtlety of the action. The weighting feels smoother across the range, and the pivot point (where the key rocks) is designed well enough that even when you play far back on the keys, the resistance feels natural. This matters when tackling passages that require you to play toward the back of the keys, such as certain Chopin études or Bach inventions.

The PHA-4 also includes escapement simulation. On a grand piano, there’s a slight notch you feel about halfway down the key travel, which is the hammer disengaging from the string mechanism. Roland mimics this sensation, and while it’s not as pronounced as on a real grand, it does add realism. Casio’s PX-870 does not have this feature, which is one area where the Roland stands ahead.

The keytops on the F701 are also textured with a simulated ivory feel. They’re slightly softer to the touch compared to Casio’s texture, and they absorb moisture well, which helps during long playing sessions. They feel premium—not “toy-like”—and contribute to the sense of playing a real instrument.

In terms of overall weight, the PHA-4 action is slightly lighter than Casio’s Tri-Sensor action. This makes it a bit easier for younger players or those who prefer a lighter touch, but it still has enough resistance to prepare you for acoustic pianos. The lighter action also makes fast passages and repeated notes easier to execute. Advanced pianists, particularly those who play a lot of classical or jazz, will likely notice that the F701 allows for greater nuance at very soft dynamics. Pianissimo is more controllable, whereas the Casio can feel a bit binary at the extreme low end of dynamics.

Responsiveness and repetition

One of the most telling aspects of keyboard action is how it handles rapid repetition. On the PX-870, thanks to the triple-sensor system, you can play repeated notes without the key fully returning to the top. That’s a solid advantage compared to two-sensor actions. Still, the heaviness of the action can make it slightly less agile for extended repeated-note passages.

The Roland F701 handles repetitions beautifully. The escapement simulation and sensor technology allow notes to retrigger quickly and with less effort. When playing something like Ravel’s “Jeux d’eau” or Liszt’s repeated octaves, the Roland feels more forgiving. Even for contemporary styles like rock or gospel, where you’re hammering chords repeatedly, the Roland’s lighter, smoother feel is less fatiguing.

Noise factor

Another point worth mentioning is mechanical noise. On the PX-870, the action produces a noticeable thump when you press hard. It’s not loud enough to distract the player, but in a quiet room, someone sitting nearby will hear it. The Roland F701, while not silent, has a quieter action with a softer bottom-out. If you’re practicing late at night with headphones and you share a space, this difference could matter.

Long-term reliability

Both Casio and Roland have solid reputations for durable actions, but user reports suggest slight differences. Casio’s Tri-Sensor action has been around for years and holds up well, but some users note that after heavy use, the keys can develop a bit of looseness. Roland’s PHA-4 action tends to age gracefully, retaining consistency even after years of daily practice. For serious pianists who play several hours a day, Roland may offer more peace of mind.

Who each action suits best

The PX-870’s heavier, slightly firmer action is well-suited for beginners and intermediate players who want to build finger strength and aren’t as concerned with the absolute subtlety of touch. It’s also a good choice for people who primarily play pop, rock, or worship music, where dynamic nuance is less critical than rhythmic precision and chordal strength.

The F701’s action is ideal for players who crave expression and subtle control. If you’re into classical repertoire or jazz, you’ll appreciate how easily it handles soft passages and nuanced phrasing. It’s also more comfortable for longer practice sessions thanks to its lighter touch and smoother response.

Verdict on keyboard action

Both the Casio PX-870 and Roland F701 offer excellent key actions for their price categories, but they cater to slightly different needs.

• If you want a heavier, solid action that builds strength and offers solid reliability for under $1,200, the Casio PX-870 is fantastic.
• If you’re willing to pay more for refined nuance, smoother feel, and escapement realism, the Roland F701 is the better choice.

In simple terms: the PX-870 feels like a good upright; the F701 feels like a baby grand.

Sound Engine

If the keyboard action is the body of a digital piano, the sound engine is its voice. You can have the most beautifully weighted keys in the world, but if the sound that comes out feels thin, artificial, or lifeless, you’ll lose inspiration fast. On the flip side, even a modest action can be made much more enjoyable if the piano’s tone is rich and responsive. That’s why the sound engine deserves serious attention.

Both the Casio PX-870 and Roland F701 take different approaches here. Casio relies on advanced sampling technology—recordings of a real grand piano combined with digital enhancements—while Roland leans heavily on modeling, which generates the sound dynamically rather than playing back static recordings. The difference between these philosophies has a real impact on how each instrument feels and sounds. Let’s break it down.

The Casio PX-870 sound engine

Casio equips the PX-870 with its AiR (Acoustic and Intelligent Resonator) Sound Source. This system uses high-quality stereo samples from a 9-foot concert grand piano. The samples are long and detailed, with multiple velocity layers so the timbre changes naturally depending on how hard or soft you strike a key.

What you get from the AiR engine is a bright, clear piano tone that projects well. It’s not overly mellow—it has a crystalline quality that works great for modern repertoire, pop music, and practice. It cuts through a mix if you’re layering it with other instruments.

Casio also includes key resonance modeling. When you press the damper pedal on an acoustic piano, all the strings vibrate sympathetically, creating a wash of sound. The PX-870 simulates this effect with damper resonance, string resonance, and key-off simulation. Key-off simulation means you’ll hear subtle changes when you release a note, just like the faint noise of dampers returning on a real piano. These small touches add depth and realism, preventing the sound from feeling static.

Polyphony is generous—256 notes. That means you’ll almost never run into dropped notes, even when playing complex passages with pedal sustain. This is especially useful for advanced classical repertoire like Debussy or Rachmaninoff, where dense chords overlap.

The PX-870 also includes a modest selection of non-piano sounds: organs, harpsichord, strings, and a few electric pianos. These are serviceable but not the star of the show. The primary piano sound is what you’ll spend most of your time on, and Casio has invested the most effort there.

The Roland F701 sound engine

Roland uses its SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling technology in the F701. Unlike Casio’s sample-based approach, Roland’s engine doesn’t rely solely on pre-recorded notes. Instead, it generates the piano sound in real time using complex algorithms that simulate how the strings, soundboard, and cabinet would react in a real acoustic piano.

The benefit of this is nuance. On the F701, every note feels a little different depending on how you play it, not just because of volume changes but because the harmonics evolve dynamically. When you play softly, the tone has a gentle bloom; when you dig in, the harmonics become richer and more complex. There’s a sense of “aliveness” to the sound that sample-based engines sometimes struggle to replicate.

Roland’s modeling also allows for unlimited polyphony on piano sounds. That means no matter how many notes you play or sustain, you won’t hear cutoffs. For non-piano tones (Roland includes over 300 of them), polyphony is capped at 256, which is still plenty.

Resonances are where Roland really shines. The SuperNATURAL engine models damper resonance, string resonance, cabinet resonance, and even individual hammer response. When you play chords with the damper pedal, you can hear the overtones interacting in a way that feels much closer to a real acoustic. Cabinet resonance in particular adds a subtle body to the sound, as though the instrument is vibrating in space rather than producing sound from isolated speakers.

The F701’s large sound library means you can also explore electric pianos, synths, strings, choirs, guitars, and more. While not every tone is stellar, the sheer variety makes it a fun instrument for experimenting beyond traditional piano playing.

Comparing tonal character

Here’s where personal preference really comes into play.

The PX-870’s tone is clear, focused, and slightly on the bright side. Some players will love this, especially if they play pop or want a piano that projects strongly in a mix. But if you’re looking for a deep, complex, and mellow tone, you might find Casio’s sound a bit one-dimensional over time.

The F701’s tone is rounder, warmer, and more organic. It responds more fluidly to touch, giving you more expressive control. Classical pianists and those who enjoy expressive ballads will likely gravitate toward Roland’s character. That said, some players may find Roland’s tone almost too mellow compared to Casio’s crispness, especially if they’re used to brighter Yamaha-like sounds.

Dynamic response

Dynamic response—how the sound changes depending on how you play—is one of the clearest areas of difference.

On the PX-870, the transition between velocity layers is smooth, but you can still sometimes sense the “step” between soft and loud samples. It’s not distracting, but if you’re sensitive, you’ll notice it during very expressive playing.

On the F701, because of the modeling, there are no velocity layers in the traditional sense. The tone changes fluidly across the dynamic spectrum. You can feather notes at the very edge of pianissimo and get something subtle but still expressive, or hammer fortissimo chords without harsh cutoffs. It feels continuous, like an acoustic grand.

Headphone experience

Both instruments sound good through headphones, but Roland again has a slight edge. The F701 uses its Headphones 3D Ambience technology, which simulates the spatial effect of sitting in front of a real piano. It makes headphone practice less fatiguing and more natural. The PX-870 still sounds fine in headphones, but it feels more like “sound in your ears” rather than a piano in front of you.

Recording and sound shaping

The PX-870 allows direct recording of WAV files to a USB stick. This is a huge plus if you want to capture your playing and share it without fuss. You’re getting the full piano sound as rendered by the AiR engine, which holds up nicely even in recordings.

The F701 doesn’t offer direct audio recording to USB—it records in MIDI format instead, which you then need to render using software. This gives you more flexibility if you’re into production, but for someone who just wants to hit record and get an audio file, Casio’s system is more convenient.

Roland does make up for this with more onboard sound shaping. Through its menus and apps, you can tweak parameters like ambience, resonance, and even the “character” of the piano. Casio offers some customization too, but Roland’s controls are deeper and more flexible.

Long-term impressions

Over time, the Casio PX-870’s sound can start to feel a bit predictable. It’s a high-quality sample, but it doesn’t change much beyond what’s programmed. The Roland F701, with its modeling, stays fresher because the instrument feels like it’s reacting to you rather than just playing back a recording.

That doesn’t mean Casio’s sound is bad—far from it. For practice, lessons, and performance in smaller venues, it more than holds up. But if you’re after the kind of nuance that keeps you inspired after hours of practice, the Roland offers more depth.

Verdict on sound engine

• Casio PX-870: Bright, clear, and surprisingly detailed for the price. Excellent polyphony and resonances, straightforward recording, and a reliable all-rounder. Best for those who want value and a clear sound profile.
• Roland F701: Rich, organic, and endlessly expressive thanks to modeling. Superior resonance realism, unlimited polyphony, and more customization. Best for those who prioritize nuance and natural acoustic feel.

In short: Casio gives you an excellent sampled grand; Roland gives you a living, breathing instrument. Which you prefer depends on your ear and playing style.

Speaker System

A digital piano’s sound engine is the brain, but the speaker system is the mouth. You can have the most advanced modeling technology or pristine samples, but if the speakers don’t deliver them well, the result will be underwhelming. The speaker system determines not just how the piano sounds to others in the room, but also how immersive it feels to you as the player.

Both the Casio PX-870 and Roland F701 aim to create a satisfying “in-the-room” piano sound without needing external amplification. They’re not designed to blast out sound like a stage piano connected to PA speakers, but rather to fill a living room, practice studio, or small venue with a convincing acoustic-like presence. Let’s dig into how they compare.

Casio PX-870 speaker design

The PX-870 uses a 40-watt, four-speaker system (two 12 cm speakers and two 4 cm tweeters). This is unusually powerful for its price bracket. Many competitors in the same range top out around 20–25 watts, so Casio clearly invested in giving the PX-870 some muscle.

The system is designed with multi-directional sound projection. Some of the sound is directed upward toward the player, while some radiates downward and forward, mimicking the way an acoustic piano’s soundboard disperses vibrations. When you sit at the PX-870, you get a sense of the sound surrounding you rather than just coming straight at your face from two small speakers.

Volume is a big win here. The PX-870 gets loud enough to fill a medium-sized room comfortably without distortion. If you push it to maximum, it still holds its clarity, though the bass can start to feel a little boxy. For home use, you’ll rarely need it cranked all the way. At lower volumes, it retains good balance and doesn’t sound thin, which is important for late-night practice when you don’t want to disturb others.

Tonally, the Casio system emphasizes clarity and brightness. The tweeters do a solid job of keeping the higher registers sparkling without becoming shrill. The bass is present but not booming; it’s tight and controlled. If you play a lot of pop or modern music where you want chords to punch through, the PX-870’s speakers handle it nicely.

Roland F701 speaker design

The Roland F701, in contrast, uses a 24-watt, two-speaker system (two 12 cm speakers). On paper, that’s nearly half the power of the Casio, and in practice, it is noticeably less powerful. The F701 is not about volume—it’s about balance and refinement.

The two-speaker setup doesn’t create as much of an enveloping effect as the PX-870’s four-speaker array. The sound projects more directly toward the player and out into the room, which feels less immersive if you’re used to the spread of an acoustic piano. That said, the speakers are tuned to complement Roland’s SuperNATURAL modeling engine. The result is a sound that feels clean and natural, even if it’s not as physically commanding as Casio’s.

The F701 is at its best in a smaller to medium-sized room. In that environment, it produces enough volume to be satisfying without straining. If you’re trying to fill a larger space or want that chest-rumbling bass resonance, you may find it lacking unless you connect it to external amplification.

Tonally, Roland’s system emphasizes warmth and depth. The midrange is especially strong, which helps give chords and melodies a rounded, natural character. The treble is smooth rather than sparkling, and the bass—while not as powerful as Casio’s—is more resonant. For classical repertoire, where tonal warmth is prized, the F701’s speakers feel more authentic.

Practical listening differences

When you sit at the PX-870 and strike a chord, the first impression is power. The sound fills the space easily, and there’s a sense of immediacy that makes practice feel rewarding. For many beginners and intermediates, this kind of strong projection makes the instrument feel more “real,” even if the tonal detail isn’t as refined as Roland’s.

The F701, on the other hand, feels subtler. The sound doesn’t push outward as forcefully, but it carries a natural body that makes it pleasant for longer playing sessions. If you’re someone who values nuance over raw volume, you may prefer the F701’s calmer approach. It encourages you to listen to your own playing more closely, which can be great for developing a sensitive touch.

In a household context, the PX-870 might feel a bit much if you live in an apartment with thin walls. Its powerful speakers can make neighbors aware of your practice habits even at mid volumes. The F701’s gentler projection makes it easier to manage in shared spaces. Of course, both offer headphone jacks if you need to practice silently.

Headphone practice and speaker interplay

While not strictly part of the speaker system, it’s worth noting how each piano handles the transition between speakers and headphones. The PX-870’s strong speakers make headphone use feel like a compromise—you lose some of that immersive spread. The Roland F701, however, has its Headphones 3D Ambience technology, which actually makes headphone practice feel more natural than speaker playback in some cases. This shows that Roland prioritized headphone users just as much as speaker listeners, whereas Casio clearly leaned into speaker power.

External amplification considerations

Neither the PX-870 nor the F701 has dedicated line outputs, which is a limitation if you want to connect to external speakers or a PA system. Both rely on headphone jacks for that purpose, which works but isn’t as clean as proper line outs. That said, if you plan to use these pianos strictly at home, the built-in speakers are likely all you’ll ever need.

Verdict on speaker system

The Casio PX-870 clearly wins in terms of raw power and room-filling presence. Its four-speaker, 40-watt system is impressive for the price, giving you a bold, immersive sound that makes practice and casual performance satisfying.

The Roland F701 takes a different path. Its 24-watt, two-speaker setup won’t blow anyone away with volume, but it offers tonal warmth and balance that pair beautifully with Roland’s modeling engine. It’s less about power and more about subtlety.

Which one is better depends on what you want. If you want to feel the piano vibrate through your chest and have the flexibility to play for an audience in a small room without extra gear, the Casio PX-870 delivers. If you care more about tonal refinement and plan to do much of your playing in headphones or at moderate volume, the Roland F701 may suit you better.

Functions & Features

While design, action, sound, and speakers form the core experience of a digital piano, the extra functions and features are where the two instruments begin to diverge in philosophy. Some pianists want nothing more than a convincing acoustic piano substitute, and in that case, features beyond the basics might feel unnecessary. Others, however, value the flexibility digital pianos provide—recording functions, lesson aids, layering sounds, splitting the keyboard, or connecting to apps. These are the tools that make the difference between an instrument that simply sounds like a piano and one that can become a learning, performing, and creative hub.

The Casio PX-870 and Roland F701 both offer a variety of features, but the way they approach them reflects each company’s priorities. Casio leans toward practicality and value: simple, useful tools that enhance daily playing without overwhelming you with options. Roland, meanwhile, builds in more depth and integrates their instruments tightly with modern digital ecosystems, particularly through app connectivity. Let’s take a closer look.

Playing modes

Both instruments support the three most common digital piano playing modes:

• Layer mode: Lets you play two sounds at the same time, such as piano + strings. The Casio PX-870 allows layering any two of its 19 tones, while the Roland F701 lets you layer across a much larger library of 300+ tones. Practically, this means Roland offers far more variety if you like cinematic or experimental combinations, while Casio covers the essentials.
• Split mode: Assigns one sound to the left hand and another to the right. This is useful for practice, performances, or accompaniment styles. For example, you could set a bass sound in the left hand and an electric piano in the right. Both pianos support this feature, though Roland’s larger library makes it more flexible.
• Duet mode (also called twin piano or partner mode): Splits the keyboard into two zones with identical pitch ranges, essentially creating two mini 44-key keyboards. This is excellent for teaching situations, as teacher and student can sit side by side and play the same notes in the same register. Both pianos offer this feature, and both include two headphone jacks to facilitate duet practice.

Recording functions

Recording is a big deal for practice and performance review. Both instruments offer onboard recording, but with key differences.

The Casio PX-870 includes a 2-track MIDI recorder, which allows you to record one hand at a time and then play along with your own recording. More importantly, Casio also provides direct audio recording to USB stick in WAV format. This is an enormous convenience. You can sit down, play a piece, plug in a USB stick, and walk away with a high-quality audio file ready to share. No need for external interfaces or software. For students who want to send recordings to teachers, or for hobbyists who want to post performances online, this feature is invaluable.

The Roland F701, in contrast, only supports 1-track MIDI recording internally. You can export performances as SMF (Standard MIDI Files) via USB and later render them to audio using software or Roland’s apps. This approach gives you more flexibility in editing, but it’s less straightforward if your goal is simply to record and share quickly. For casual use, Casio’s solution is superior. For tech-savvy players or those doing more advanced MIDI work, Roland’s workflow integrates better with DAWs and production setups.

Lesson functions

Casio outfits the PX-870 with a built-in lesson mode. It comes preloaded with 60 practice songs, and you can load MIDI files via USB. You can practice the left and right hand separately, slow down playback, or mute parts to play along. These tools make it a friendly piano for self-learners or for students who want structured practice.

Roland takes a more app-driven approach. While the F701 also has a library of songs (over 370, including classical works and études), its real strength is integration with the Roland Piano Every Day app. The app tracks your practice, provides exercises, and even gamifies daily playing to encourage consistency. For younger learners or tech-oriented players, this interactive approach is very motivating. You can also download and play along with sheet music directly through the app, which feels more modern than Casio’s USB-file method.

Metronome and practice aids

Both instruments include a built-in metronome with adjustable tempo and time signatures. You can also transpose the keyboard and adjust tuning. These are standard features, but they matter for practice, especially if you’re working with ensemble pieces or accompanying singers who need transpositions.

Roland goes a step further with more rhythm accompaniments. While not a full arranger keyboard, the F701 offers basic backing rhythms that make practice more engaging. The Casio PX-870 doesn’t provide this; it sticks to the straightforward metronome.

Sound library and voices

Here’s where the two pianos really diverge.

The Casio PX-870 provides 19 tones. They’re good quality, but limited: a few grand pianos, some electric pianos, strings, harpsichord, organs, and a couple of others. Casio’s philosophy here is clear—focus on the core sounds a pianist is likely to use, and don’t clutter the interface with hundreds of options.

The Roland F701, on the other hand, offers over 300 tones. These cover everything from acoustic and electric pianos to guitars, brass, choirs, synth pads, and even drum kits. Are they all great? Not necessarily—some are more novelty than professional-grade. But the sheer variety opens up creative possibilities. If you want to explore arranging or composing, Roland gives you more tools to play with.

Customization options

Both pianos allow some degree of sound customization.

On the PX-870, you can adjust brilliance, reverb, and chorus, plus fine-tune elements like hammer response and damper resonance. It’s enough to tweak the piano sound to your taste but not overwhelming.

Roland, with its modeling engine, offers deeper control. You can adjust ambience, resonance types, temperament, and other parameters that shape how the virtual piano behaves. Through the app, you can even save different piano “setups” for various situations. If you like to tinker and fine-tune, Roland is more flexible.

Connectivity features

The PX-870 has USB to Host (for connecting to a computer) and USB to Device (for plugging in USB sticks). That’s it—no Bluetooth, no line outs. To connect to learning apps, you’ll need a wired USB connection. It works fine, but it feels a bit dated.

The F701 includes USB to Host and Device as well, but also adds Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio. This is a big deal in practice. You can connect wirelessly to apps on a phone or tablet for lessons or DAW control. You can also stream music through the F701’s speakers, effectively turning it into a Bluetooth speaker for play-along practice. This kind of integration makes the Roland feel like a more modern instrument, while Casio feels more traditional.

Other features worth noting

• Built-in songs: Casio has 60; Roland has over 370.
• Apps: Casio relies on MIDI file loading; Roland integrates deeply with Piano Every Day and other Roland apps.
• Display/controls: Casio uses physical buttons with some key combinations; Roland uses touch-sensitive illuminated buttons that feel more contemporary.

Verdict on functions and features

• Casio PX-870: Strong in the essentials. Its standout feature is direct WAV recording, which is practical and user-friendly. Its lesson functions are solid, but app integration is limited. Its philosophy is “less but done well.”
• Roland F701: Much broader feature set, with emphasis on connectivity, app integration, and creative exploration. Recording is less straightforward, but customization and practice tools are richer.

Which you prefer depends on your priorities. If you’re a student or hobbyist who just wants straightforward practice tools and the ability to record audio easily, the PX-870 has the features that matter most. If you’re a tech-savvy player who values Bluetooth, app integration, and a huge sound library, the Roland F701 feels more future-proof.

Connectivity

Connectivity is often overlooked by buyers shopping for their first digital piano. At first glance, it might seem like a secondary concern compared to sound or keyboard action. But once you own the instrument and start thinking about how you’ll use it—recording yourself, connecting to learning apps, streaming music, or even just managing headphones—connectivity suddenly becomes very important. It determines how well your piano integrates into your daily life, whether you’re practicing, performing, or creating music.

The Casio PX-870 and Roland F701 take very different approaches here. The Casio is traditional, sticking to a tried-and-true set of wired options. The Roland, on the other hand, is more forward-looking, baking in wireless technologies and deeper app compatibility. Let’s break it down.

Casio PX-870 connectivity

The PX-870 keeps things simple. On the front panel under the keyboard, you’ll find two headphone jacks (one 1/4-inch, one 1/8-inch), which is excellent for teaching, duets, or family practice. This dual setup is a thoughtful detail—many instruments only include one jack, forcing you to buy a splitter if two people want to listen.

On the rear panel, you get:

• USB to Host: This port allows you to connect the PX-870 directly to a computer or tablet using a USB cable. Once connected, it functions as a MIDI controller, letting you use the piano with DAWs like Logic, Cubase, or Ableton, or with educational apps like Flowkey and Simply Piano. The connection is class-compliant, which means you don’t need to install drivers on most devices—plug it in, and it works.
• USB to Device: This is Casio’s trump card. Plug in a USB flash drive, and you can record performances directly as WAV audio files. No extra equipment needed. This feature is incredibly practical for students who want to send recordings to teachers, or for hobbyists who want a quick, no-fuss way to capture performances without diving into recording software.

What you don’t get on the PX-870 is just as important. There are no line outputs, so you can’t easily connect the piano to external speakers or an amplifier without running a cable from the headphone jack (which works but isn’t ideal). There’s no MIDI DIN port for older gear. And perhaps most noticeably in 2025, there’s no Bluetooth. If you want to connect to iPad learning apps, you’ll need to use a wired USB adapter, which adds clutter and limits mobility.

Casio’s approach is conservative. It prioritizes reliability—wired connections that just work—over wireless convenience. For some players, that’s perfectly fine. If your routine is practice at home, recording to USB occasionally, and maybe connecting to a computer once in a while, the PX-870 covers the essentials. But if you want to integrate your piano seamlessly with mobile devices or stream music through the instrument’s speakers, you may find it restrictive.

Roland F701 connectivity

The F701 immediately feels more modern in this department. Like the Casio, it offers dual headphone jacks on the front panel (again, 1/4-inch and 1/8-inch), which is very handy for teachers and students. On the rear panel, you also find USB to Host and USB to Device ports. These serve the same basic functions as Casio’s: MIDI connection to computers and file transfer/updates.

Where Roland pulls ahead is in its wireless options. The F701 includes both Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio.

• Bluetooth MIDI: This lets you connect to music apps on smartphones, tablets, or computers without cables. For example, you can practice with apps like Roland’s Piano Every Day, flowkey, or Yousician, and the piano communicates wirelessly with the app in real time. No adapters, no wires dangling across your living room.
• Bluetooth Audio: This allows you to stream music directly from your phone through the F701’s built-in speakers. Want to play along with a YouTube backing track or Spotify playlist? Just pair your phone, and the sound comes through the piano. This feature alone makes practice much more enjoyable—you don’t need external speakers, and the balance between your playing and the backing track feels more natural.

These two features make the F701 feel much more integrated into a modern household where mobile devices are central to learning, listening, and playing. You can sit down with your iPad, open an app, and start playing without ever touching a cable.

Roland also leverages these connections through its own ecosystem of apps. The Piano Every Day app tracks practice sessions, suggests songs, and lets you download sheet music. With Bluetooth MIDI, it feels seamless. Casio users can technically do similar things with third-party apps, but they’ll need to use a USB cable, which makes the process feel more old-fashioned and less spontaneous.

Headphones and silent practice

Both instruments do well in this area, but with slightly different emphases.

Casio’s dual headphone jacks are complemented by its Headphone Mode, which adjusts the sound engine EQ to optimize playback for headphones. This prevents the sound from feeling too harsh or “in your head.” It’s a thoughtful feature that shows Casio understands many players practice silently.

Roland takes it further with Headphones 3D Ambience, which simulates the spatial spread of an acoustic piano when you’re using headphones. Instead of the sound being locked between your ears, it feels like it’s coming from in front of you, giving a more natural playing experience. For players who expect to practice silently for long stretches, this is a subtle but important advantage.

Missing features and limitations

Neither the PX-870 nor the F701 includes traditional line out jacks. This limits their usefulness for stage performers who want to connect to PA systems or external amplifiers cleanly. While you can use the headphone jack as a substitute, it’s not ideal for professional settings, as it lacks the clean, balanced output of dedicated line connections.

Both also lack MIDI DIN ports, meaning they rely entirely on USB or Bluetooth for MIDI connectivity. For most modern setups, that’s fine, but if you have older MIDI gear, it could be a drawback.

Practical day-to-day differences

In real-world use, the connectivity differences shape the whole ownership experience. Imagine two scenarios:

• With the PX-870, you sit down to practice with an app like Flowkey. To connect, you need to plug a USB cable from the piano into your iPad, often requiring an adapter. The connection is stable, but it feels tethered. When you want to record, you plug in a USB stick and save your performance as a WAV file—a simple, self-contained process that works every time.
• With the F701, you sit down and open the Roland Piano Every Day app. The piano pairs via Bluetooth instantly, and you start practicing. If you want to jam along to a YouTube video, you pair your phone via Bluetooth Audio and play along with the sound coming through the piano’s speakers. If you want to record, you use the app to capture MIDI, and later render it to audio on your computer. The process is slightly more app-dependent, but it feels modern and flexible.

Verdict on connectivity

The Casio PX-870 wins on simplicity and practicality. Its dual USB system and built-in WAV recording make it easy to capture and share performances without relying on external apps or computers. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense approach that appeals to traditional players and students.

The Roland F701 wins on modern integration and wireless convenience. Its Bluetooth MIDI and Audio functions make it feel like part of your digital lifestyle, seamlessly linking with apps, streaming, and practice tools. It does sacrifice the convenience of direct WAV recording, but for tech-savvy users who live on phones and tablets, its ecosystem feels more natural.

Which you prefer depends on your style. If you’re the kind of player who values plug-and-play reliability and doesn’t care about Bluetooth, the PX-870 covers the essentials beautifully. If you love the idea of a piano that talks wirelessly to your apps, streams your favorite songs through its speakers, and feels integrated with your digital world, the Roland F701 is clearly the stronger choice.

Conclusion

After spending time with both the Casio PX-870 and the Roland F701, it’s clear that these instruments, while occupying a similar price bracket, are aimed at slightly different players. The PX-870 is a rock-solid choice for someone who values simplicity, a convincing piano sound, reliable key action, and practical tools like direct WAV recording. It doesn’t overwhelm with options, and that’s part of its charm—what it does, it does well. It feels like a digital piano built for students, traditional pianists, and anyone who wants a no-fuss instrument that just works.

The Roland F701, by contrast, leans into the future. Its Bluetooth connectivity, deep app integration, larger sound library, and more customizable features make it a versatile tool for modern learners and creative musicians. If you like experimenting with tones, using apps to guide your practice, or streaming music directly through your piano, the F701 offers a more immersive and connected experience. Its sound modeling engine and headphone ambience settings also make it appealing for players who will spend long hours practicing silently.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to priorities. If you want straightforward value, excellent core piano sound, and the ability to record performances quickly without extra gear, the Casio PX-870 is hard to beat. If you want a piano that feels modern, integrates with your digital lifestyle, and offers a broader palette for creativity, the Roland F701 earns its place.

Neither is strictly better—they’re just built with different players in mind. The good news? Both are excellent instruments that can serve as a primary home piano for years. Choosing between them isn’t about right or wrong, but about matching the piano’s strengths to your own needs and style.