If you’re in the market for an entry-level digital piano, the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105 are two strong contenders. Both are designed for beginners and intermediate players looking for an affordable home piano with realistic sound and feel. But which one offers the best value for your money?
I’ve taken a deep dive into both models, analyzing their design, keyboard feel, sound quality, speakers, features, connectivity, and overall value. By the end of this review, you’ll have a clear idea of which digital piano is the better choice for your needs.
Roland RP107 vs. Yamaha YDP-105 Comparison Chart
| Feature | Roland RP107 | Yamaha YDP-105 |
|---|---|---|
 |  | |
| Price | Check the best price on Amazon | Check the best price on Amazon |
| Key Action | PHA-4 Standard (escapement, textured keys) | GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) (lighter, no escapement, plastic keys) |
| Key Texture | Ivory & Ebony Feel | Smooth Plastic |
| Number of Keys | 88 | 88 |
| Sound Engine | SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling | AWM Stereo Sampling |
| Polyphony | 256 notes | 64 notes |
| Number of Sounds | 15 (Pianos, EPs, Organs, Strings, etc.) | 10 (Pianos, EPs, Strings, etc.) |
| Speaker Power | 2 x 4W (8W total) | 2 x 6W (12W total) |
| Speaker Placement | Downward-facing | Downward-facing |
| Resonance Effects | Yes (string, damper, key-off resonance) | Minimal sustain resonance only |
| Sound Customization | Yes (adjustable brilliance, ambiance, resonance settings) | No customization |
| Bluetooth MIDI | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Audio | Yes (stream music through piano speakers) | No |
| USB MIDI | Yes (USB Type-B, MIDI & Audio over USB) | Yes (USB Type-B, MIDI only) |
| Audio Outputs (Line Out) | Yes (stereo 1/4” line-out jacks) | No dedicated audio outputs |
| Headphone Outputs | 2 x 1/4″ stereo jacks (with 3D Ambience effect) | 2 x 1/4″ stereo jacks |
| Recording & Playback | Yes (MIDI recording & playback) | No recording function |
| Metronome | Yes | Yes |
| Dual Mode (Layer Sounds) | Yes | Yes |
| Split Mode | No | No |
| Twin Piano Mode (Duet Mode) | Yes | Yes |
| Learning App Support | Yes (Roland Piano Every Day, GarageBand, Flowkey, Simply Piano) | Limited (MIDI apps only, no Bluetooth support) |
| Music Stand | Standard, slightly tilted | Wider, designed for large books |
| Pedal System | 3-pedal unit with progressive sustain | 3-pedal unit (no half-pedal support) |
| Finish Options | Black | Black, Rosewood |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 1,360 x 410 x 982 mm (53.5” x 16.1” x 38.7”) | 1,357 x 422 x 815 mm (53.4” x 16.6” x 32.1”) |
| Weight | 37.3 kg (82.2 lbs) | 37.5 kg (82.7 lbs) |
| My individual reviews | Roland RP107 review | Yamaha YDP-105 review |
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
✅ Choose the Roland RP107 if you want:
- A more realistic playing experience (better key action with escapement and textured keys).
- More dynamic, detailed sound (SuperNATURAL modeling, resonance effects, and 256-note polyphony).
- Modern connectivity (Bluetooth MIDI & Audio, USB Audio, and dedicated line-out jacks).
- Longer-term investment (future-proof features and better sound customization).
✅ Choose the Yamaha YDP-105 if you want:
- A slightly cheaper option ($100 less, but missing many features).
- A simple, traditional digital piano without Bluetooth or advanced connectivity.
- Louder speakers (though not necessarily better in quality).
Final Winner: Roland RP107 🏆
The Roland RP107 dominates in almost every category, making it the best choice for most players.
Design & Build Quality
When buying a digital piano, aesthetics and build quality matter more than you might think. Since both the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105 are console-style digital pianos, they aren’t meant to be portable like stage pianos. Instead, they are designed to stay in one place, serving as a dedicated instrument in your home. Because of this, the way they look, feel, and fit into your space is important.
Let’s break down the design, materials, build quality, and ergonomics of both models in great detail.
Overall Design Philosophy
At first glance, both the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105 share a traditional upright piano-inspired look, complete with a built-in stand and a three-pedal unit. However, their approach to design differs significantly.
- Roland RP107: Roland’s design philosophy leans toward modern minimalism. The RP107 has a sleek, compact look with clean lines and a slim profile. The cabinet is relatively lightweight compared to traditional console pianos, making it easier to move if needed. The buttons are discreetly placed, giving the piano an uncluttered, streamlined aesthetic.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Yamaha takes a more traditional approach, closely mimicking an acoustic upright piano. The YDP-105 has a wider and slightly bulkier design, which some people might find more visually appealing if they want their digital piano to look like a classic piece of furniture. The control panel is positioned on the left side, with buttons clearly visible.
Design Verdict:
- If you prefer a more modern, space-saving digital piano, the Roland RP107 is the better option.
- If you want a classic-looking piano that blends into a traditional home setting, the Yamaha YDP-105 wins.
Build Materials & Finish
The materials used in a digital piano impact its durability, feel, and overall appearance.
- Roland RP107: The RP107 is made from high-quality engineered wood with a matte black finish. The surface is resistant to fingerprints and minor scratches, making it relatively low-maintenance. The keys are well-protected by a built-in key cover that slides smoothly. The music stand is sturdy but minimalistic, designed to hold sheet music or a tablet without obstruction.
- Yamaha YDP-105: The YDP-105 also features an engineered wood construction, but it has a slightly more textured, semi-gloss finish. This gives it a more acoustic piano-like feel. Like the RP107, it comes with a built-in key cover, but Yamaha’s design feels a bit heavier and more solid. The music stand is wider, which may be an advantage if you often use large sheet music books.
Build Material Verdict:
- The Yamaha YDP-105 feels slightly sturdier, making it a better choice if you want a more furniture-like feel.
- The Roland RP107 has a more modern, durable matte finish that’s easier to maintain over time.
Size & Dimensions
If space is an issue, the dimensions of your digital piano matter.
- Roland RP107:
- Width: 1,360 mm (53.5 inches)
- Depth: 410 mm (16.1 inches)
- Height: 982 mm (38.7 inches)
- Weight: 37.3 kg (82.2 lbs)
- Yamaha YDP-105:
- Width: 1,357 mm (53.4 inches)
- Depth: 422 mm (16.6 inches)
- Height: 815 mm (32.1 inches)
- Weight: 37.5 kg (82.7 lbs)
As you can see, the RP107 is slightly slimmer and taller, while the YDP-105 is a bit shorter but deeper. The difference is minor, but it might matter if you’re placing the piano in a tight space.
Size Verdict:
- Roland RP107 is better for small rooms due to its slightly slimmer design.
- Yamaha YDP-105 is more traditional in size, taking up a bit more space.
Keyboard Cover & Music Stand
Both pianos come with a built-in sliding key cover, which helps protect the keys from dust and accidental damage. However, the music stand design is slightly different.
- Roland RP107: The music stand is minimalist and slightly angled, making it comfortable for reading sheet music. However, it is not adjustable in height.
- Yamaha YDP-105: The music stand is wider and more solid, making it better suited for large sheet music books. It also has a small ledge to hold books in place.
Music Stand Verdict:
- If you mainly use digital devices (tablets, phones) for sheet music, the Roland RP107 is more than sufficient.
- If you use large books, the Yamaha YDP-105’s wider stand is better.
Pedal System
Both pianos come with a three-pedal unit, which mimics the sustain, sostenuto, and soft pedals found on acoustic pianos. But there are slight differences in pedal responsiveness.
- Roland RP107: Uses progressive sustain pedaling, meaning the amount of sustain changes depending on how much you press the pedal—just like a real piano.
- Yamaha YDP-105: The sustain pedal works, but it lacks half-pedal functionality, meaning it doesn’t offer as much control over sustain levels.
Pedal Verdict: The Roland RP107’s pedals are more realistic, making it the better option for expressive playing.
User Interface & Control Panel
A cluttered control panel can make a digital piano feel cheap, so the placement of buttons matters.
- Roland RP107: Roland goes for a minimalist approach, keeping buttons small and integrated into the panel. Most functions are controlled via the Roland Piano App, so the piano itself doesn’t have many visible controls. This makes the RP107 look sleek but requires an app for full functionality.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Yamaha sticks to physical buttons located on the left side of the keyboard. This makes the piano easier to use without an app, but it also means the control panel is more visible.
Control Panel Verdict:
- If you prefer a clean, modern look with app-based controls, go for the Roland RP107.
- If you want physical buttons for easy access, the Yamaha YDP-105 is the better choice.
Final Thoughts on Design & Build Quality
Both digital pianos are well-built and sturdy, but they appeal to different preferences.
Choose the Roland RP107 if you want:
✅ A modern, minimalist design
✅ A slim, space-saving cabinet
✅ A matte finish that resists fingerprints
✅ More realistic pedals
Choose the Yamaha YDP-105 if you want:
✅ A traditional acoustic piano look
✅ A wider music stand for books
✅ Visible control buttons for easy access
✅ A more furniture-like feel
Overall, if modern aesthetics, realism, and space-saving design matter to you, go with the Roland RP107. But if you want a classic look with a traditional feel, the Yamaha YDP-105 is a solid alternative.
Keyboard Action & Feel
The key action and feel of a digital piano are arguably the most important factors for any pianist. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an experienced player practicing complex pieces, the realism, responsiveness, and comfort of the keys make a huge difference in your playing experience.
Both the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105 feature fully weighted, 88-key keyboards with graded hammer action, meaning the keys in the lower register feel heavier, while those in the higher register feel lighter—just like an acoustic piano. However, there are significant differences in technology, realism, and overall playability between these two models.
In this section, we’ll deep-dive into how each piano feels, their key action mechanisms, the texture and responsiveness of the keys, and how they compare to an acoustic piano.
Key Action Mechanisms: PHA-4 Standard vs. GHS
Each piano uses a different key action mechanism, and this is where the biggest difference lies.
Roland RP107 – PHA-4 Standard Action
The Roland RP107 uses PHA-4 Standard action, which is considered one of the best key actions in its price range. It’s the same keybed used in Roland’s higher-end FP and RP series digital pianos, which means you’re getting a more advanced key action even in an entry-level instrument.
- Escapement Mechanism: The RP107 features escapement, which means you feel a slight notch when pressing the keys lightly, just like on a real grand piano. This detail is often missing in lower-end digital pianos, making the RP107 stand out.
- Synthetic Ivory & Ebony Texture: The key surfaces have a textured finish that mimics the feel of real ivory and ebony. This helps improve grip, preventing fingers from slipping during long practice sessions.
- Responsive & Expressive: The PHA-4 action is known for being highly responsive, meaning it captures subtle differences in touch—essential for expressive playing.
Yamaha YDP-105 – GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) Action
The YDP-105 uses Yamaha’s Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action, which is Yamaha’s most basic weighted key action. While it provides a realistic graded weight, it is not as refined as Roland’s PHA-4.
- No Escapement: Unlike Roland’s key action, the YDP-105 lacks an escapement mechanism, meaning there’s no subtle “click” when pressing the keys lightly. This makes it feel less like a grand piano.
- Glossy Black Keys, No Texture: The black keys are glossy, and the white keys are smooth plastic, which can feel slippery after extended playing. This is a major difference compared to Roland’s textured keys.
- Less Dynamic Control: While the GHS action is good for beginners, it has less dynamic control than the PHA-4, meaning subtle variations in touch are harder to achieve.
Weight & Resistance of Keys
A key factor in how realistic a digital piano feels is the weight of the keys and how they respond to different levels of touch.
- Roland RP107 (PHA-4 Standard): The keys feel slightly heavier and more balanced, making them closer to an acoustic piano. The return action (how fast the keys spring back) is well-calibrated, making fast playing feel natural. The key press depth is deep, giving a satisfying amount of resistance.
- Yamaha YDP-105 (GHS): The keys feel lighter and slightly springier compared to the RP107. While it still mimics the feel of a real piano, fast playing can feel less controlled, and playing softly doesn’t feel as expressive due to the lack of sensitivity.
Verdict on Key Weight & Resistance:
✅ If you want a more realistic piano feel, go with the Roland RP107.
✅ If you prefer lighter keys that require less effort, the Yamaha YDP-105 is better.
Key Sensitivity & Expressiveness
A good digital piano should be able to detect subtle changes in touch and adjust the sound accordingly.
- Roland RP107: Offers 5 levels of touch sensitivity, allowing you to fine-tune the response to your playing style. Whether you play softly or with force, the RP107 accurately translates your dynamics into sound.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Offers 4 levels of touch sensitivity, but it is less responsive to very light touches, meaning some nuances in soft playing can be lost.
Expressiveness Verdict:
✅ The Roland RP107 is better for dynamic control, making it more suitable for advanced techniques.
Playing Comfort & Long Sessions
If you plan to play for long periods, comfort matters.
- Roland RP107: The textured key surface prevents fingers from slipping, and the slightly heavier key action feels more stable during long sessions.
- Yamaha YDP-105: The smooth, plastic keys can feel slippery after extended playing, which may cause discomfort over time.
Comfort Verdict:
✅ The Roland RP107 is more comfortable for long playing sessions.
Comparison to Acoustic Piano Feel
If you’re looking for a digital piano that feels the most like an acoustic piano, here’s how they compare:
- Roland RP107
✅ Escapement mimics grand piano feel
✅ Textured keys feel like real ivory/ebony
✅ PHA-4 action is closer to an acoustic piano
✅ Good balance of weight & resistance - Yamaha YDP-105
❌ No escapement (lacks the subtle click of an acoustic piano)
❌ Glossy keys feel more artificial
✅ Lighter action (easier for beginners but less realistic)
Verdict:
If you want the closest feel to an acoustic piano, the Roland RP107 is the clear winner.
Noise & Mechanical Sounds
Key actions in digital pianos sometimes produce mechanical noise when pressed, which can be distracting in quiet environments.
- Roland RP107: The PHA-4 action is known for being quieter than most digital piano actions. While it produces some mechanical noise, it is minimal.
- Yamaha YDP-105: The GHS action tends to be a bit noisier, especially when playing quickly.
Noise Verdict:
✅ Roland RP107 has a quieter key action.
Final Verdict: Which One Feels Better?
The Roland RP107 is the superior choice in terms of key action and feel.
| Feature | Roland RP107 (PHA-4 Standard) | Yamaha YDP-105 (GHS) |
|---|---|---|
| Escapement | ✅ Yes (like a grand piano) | ❌ No |
| Key Texture | ✅ Synthetic ivory & ebony | ❌ Smooth plastic (glossy black keys) |
| Dynamic Control | ✅ Very responsive, 5 levels | ❌ Less control, 4 levels |
| Weight & Balance | ✅ Closer to an acoustic piano | ❌ Lighter, springier feel |
| Noise Level | ✅ Quieter action | ❌ Slightly noisier |
Who Should Buy Which?
- Buy the Roland RP107 if you want:
✅ A more realistic key feel
✅ More expressiveness and dynamic control
✅ Better grip and comfort
✅ Quieter key action - Buy the Yamaha YDP-105 if you want:
✅ A lighter key action (easier for beginners)
✅ A cheaper alternative with basic weighted keys
If you’re serious about piano playing, the Roland RP107 is the clear winner.
Sound Quality
The sound quality of a digital piano is crucial because it determines how immersive and expressive your playing experience will be. A well-sampled, realistic piano tone can inspire creativity and enhance performance, while a flat, lifeless sound can make even the best key action feel uninspiring.
Both the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105 are designed to replicate the rich, dynamic sound of an acoustic piano, but they achieve this in very different ways. The Roland RP107 uses SuperNATURAL modeling and sampling, while the Yamaha YDP-105 relies on Yamaha’s AWM stereo sampling. These different approaches impact the realism, tonal depth, and responsiveness of each instrument.
In this deep dive, we’ll analyze sound technology, piano tones, polyphony, resonance effects, and overall realism to determine which digital piano offers the best sound experience.
Sound Engine Comparison: SuperNATURAL vs. AWM Sampling
The sound engine is the core of a digital piano’s tone production. Here’s how the two pianos compare:
Roland RP107 – SuperNATURAL Piano Sound Engine
Roland’s SuperNATURAL technology is widely respected in the digital piano world because it combines sampling with modeling to create a more expressive and dynamic sound.
- Hybrid Approach (Sampling + Modeling): Instead of just playing back a recording, SuperNATURAL models overtones, resonance, and tonal variations in real-time, making it sound more natural and expressive.
- Seamless Dynamics: The volume and tonal changes between soft and loud playing are smooth, avoiding the “stepped” changes that sample-only pianos often have.
- Resonance Simulation: Captures damper resonance, string resonance, and key-off resonance, making the RP107 sound much closer to a real acoustic piano.
Yamaha YDP-105 – AWM Stereo Sampling
Yamaha’s AWM (Advanced Wave Memory) Stereo Sampling is a sample-based sound engine, meaning it plays back recorded sounds from an acoustic piano.
- High-Quality Samples: The piano sound is based on real Yamaha acoustic grand recordings, giving it an authentic tonal character.
- Limited Dynamics: Since AWM relies only on pre-recorded samples, the transition between soft and loud playing is less smooth than Roland’s modeled approach.
- Basic Resonance Effects: Some basic sustain resonance is present, but it lacks the depth of Roland’s SuperNATURAL engine.
Verdict on Sound Engine:
✅ Roland RP107 wins because SuperNATURAL technology creates a more dynamic, expressive, and organic piano tone. Yamaha’s AWM sampling is good but less advanced in capturing subtle tonal changes.
Piano Sound Quality & Character
Beyond the technology behind the sound, let’s talk about how the pianos actually sound when played.
Roland RP107 – Full-Bodied, Rich Tone
- Deeper bass, warmer mids, and sparkling highs create a more balanced and natural tone.
- The modeled resonance effects make it sound more “alive” and responsive to touch.
- The attack and decay of the notes feel natural, and there’s a subtle depth in the reverb that makes it sound like you’re playing in a real room.
Yamaha YDP-105 – Bright & Clear Tone
- Yamaha’s grand piano sample has a bright, slightly sharp sound with a strong attack.
- The lower registers don’t have as much depth compared to Roland’s more resonant bass.
- The decay of notes is shorter, meaning the sound fades faster compared to Roland’s more natural sustain.
Verdict on Piano Sound Quality:
✅ The Roland RP107 has a more dynamic, natural, and expressive tone.
✅ The Yamaha YDP-105 is bright and clear, but less detailed in tonal depth.
Polyphony – How Many Notes Can Sound at Once?
Polyphony refers to how many notes the piano can play simultaneously before sounds start cutting off. More polyphony means better realism, especially when playing complex classical pieces or using the sustain pedal.
| Model | Polyphony |
|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | 256 notes |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | 64 notes |
- Roland RP107 – 256-Note Polyphony: This ensures that even in fast, complex passages, no notes are cut off. It also allows for richer layering of harmonics and overtones.
- Yamaha YDP-105 – 64-Note Polyphony: This is quite low for modern digital pianos, meaning sustained notes may drop out when playing complex pieces.
Verdict on Polyphony:
✅ The Roland RP107 is the clear winner with 256-note polyphony, making it better for advanced and expressive playing.
Resonance & Natural Sound Behavior
A real acoustic piano doesn’t just produce sound from striking a key—it also has sympathetic vibrations, string resonance, and key-off effects that add to its richness.
- Roland RP107: Features damper resonance, string resonance, and key-off simulation, making the piano sound much more organic.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Has some basic sustain resonance, but it lacks advanced string resonance modeling, making it sound flatter in comparison.
Verdict on Resonance:
✅ The Roland RP107 wins because it simulates the natural resonance of a real piano better than the YDP-105.
Sound Customization Options
Many digital pianos allow you to adjust the tone to match your preference.
- Roland RP107:
✅ Offers various piano tone adjustments (brilliance, ambiance, resonance settings).
✅ Features Bluetooth Audio to play backing tracks through the piano’s speakers. - Yamaha YDP-105:
❌ No significant sound customization options.
Verdict on Customization:
✅ Roland RP107 wins for offering more control over the sound.
Additional Sounds & Variety
Most digital pianos come with extra instrument sounds beyond the acoustic piano.
| Model | Number of Sounds |
|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | 15 tones (piano, electric pianos, organs, etc.) |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | 10 tones (piano, strings, electric pianos, etc.) |
- Roland RP107: Offers more variety and high-quality tones.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Has fewer voices, with less realism in non-piano sounds.
Verdict on Sound Variety:
✅ Roland RP107 offers more sounds and better quality.
Final Verdict: Which Digital Piano Has the Better Sound?
| Feature | Roland RP107 | Yamaha YDP-105 |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Engine | SuperNATURAL Modeling | AWM Sampling |
| Polyphony | 256 notes | 64 notes |
| Tonal Depth | Rich, resonant, detailed | Bright, slightly artificial |
| Resonance Simulation | ✅ Yes (damper, string resonance, key-off effects) | ❌ Limited sustain resonance |
| Sound Customization | ✅ Adjustable tone settings | ❌ No customization |
Which One Should You Buy?
✅ Choose the Roland RP107 if you want:
- A more natural, expressive sound
- A richer, more detailed piano tone
- More polyphony and better resonance modeling
✅ Choose the Yamaha YDP-105 if you want:
- A bright, clear tone
- A basic digital piano with a simple acoustic piano sound
Overall, the Roland RP107 wins in sound quality because its SuperNATURAL engine, higher polyphony, and resonance modeling create a more realistic playing experience.
Features & Functions
When choosing a digital piano, features and functions can greatly impact the overall experience. While sound and key action are the most critical aspects, having useful features like Bluetooth, recording options, metronomes, and adjustable piano settings can make a big difference in how enjoyable and versatile the instrument is.
In this section, we’ll take a deep dive into all the features and functions of the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105, comparing sound options, built-in effects, recording capabilities, learning tools, and overall usability.
Number of Built-in Sounds
While both pianos are primarily designed for acoustic piano sound, they also come with extra instrument voices like electric pianos, strings, and organs.
| Model | Total Built-in Sounds | Piano Sound Customization |
|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | 15 tones (pianos, electric pianos, organs, harpsichord, etc.) | Yes (adjustable brilliance, ambiance, resonance settings) |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | 10 tones (pianos, strings, electric pianos, harpsichord, etc.) | No sound customization options |
- Roland RP107: Offers 15 total sounds, including different acoustic pianos, electric pianos, harpsichord, and organs. You can also adjust various aspects of the piano tone, such as brilliance, ambiance, and resonance, allowing you to personalize the sound.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Comes with 10 tones, which include basic variations of pianos, electric pianos, and strings, but lacks customization features.
Verdict on Built-in Sounds:
✅ Roland RP107 offers more variety and customization.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 has fewer sounds and no tone adjustment features.
Polyphony (How Many Notes Can Play at Once?)
Polyphony is essential for playing complex pieces and ensuring notes don’t cut off when using the sustain pedal.
| Model | Max Polyphony |
|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | 256 notes |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | 64 notes |
- Roland RP107: With 256-note polyphony, you’ll never have to worry about notes cutting out, even when playing fast classical pieces with the sustain pedal.
- Yamaha YDP-105: The 64-note polyphony is very limiting, and in complex pieces, notes can start dropping out, affecting realism.
Verdict on Polyphony:
✅ Roland RP107 is far superior, making it better for advanced pieces and sustained playing.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105’s 64-note polyphony is outdated and restrictive.
Effects & Sound Customization
A good digital piano should allow you to shape the sound to suit your preferences.
| Model | Reverb | Brilliance (Brightness Control) | String & Damper Resonance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | ✅ Adjustable ambiance/reverb | ✅ Brilliance control | ✅ Yes, detailed resonance modeling |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | ✅ Basic reverb | ❌ No brightness adjustments | ❌ Minimal resonance effects |
- Roland RP107: Offers various levels of reverb, brilliance control, and resonance settings, allowing you to tweak the sound to your liking.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Provides a simple reverb effect but lacks customization for sound shaping.
Verdict on Sound Customization:
✅ Roland RP107 allows more control over your sound.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 is very limited in sound-shaping features.
Bluetooth & Connectivity Options
Modern digital pianos should integrate seamlessly with apps and external devices.
| Model | Bluetooth MIDI | Bluetooth Audio | USB Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (play music wirelessly) | ✅ USB MIDI to computer |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | ❌ No Bluetooth | ❌ No Bluetooth | ✅ USB MIDI |
- Roland RP107: Has Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio, meaning you can connect wirelessly to apps like GarageBand or Roland Piano App and even stream music through the piano’s speakers.
- Yamaha YDP-105: No Bluetooth support at all, meaning you must use wired connections for everything.
Verdict on Connectivity:
✅ Roland RP107 is far more advanced with Bluetooth MIDI & Audio.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 lacks wireless connectivity, making it less versatile.
Learning Tools & Apps
Digital pianos often include built-in learning features that help beginners develop skills.
- Roland RP107:
✅ Compatible with Roland’s Piano Every Day app (learning and tracking progress).
✅ Bluetooth MIDI allows connection to educational apps like Simply Piano & Flowkey.
✅ Built-in metronome & Twin Piano mode for duets. - Yamaha YDP-105:
✅ Basic metronome for timing practice.
❌ No Bluetooth means fewer app integrations.
❌ No onboard lesson features.
Verdict on Learning Features:
✅ Roland RP107 is better for beginners because of Bluetooth learning apps and interactive features.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 has only basic learning tools.
Recording & Playback
A built-in recording function allows players to review their performance and track progress.
| Model | Onboard Recording | Playback Function |
|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | ✅ Yes (MIDI Recording) | ✅ Can playback performances |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | ❌ No recording function | ❌ No playback feature |
- Roland RP107: Allows you to record your performances internally and play them back.
- Yamaha YDP-105: No recording or playback functionality, which is a huge downside.
Verdict on Recording:
✅ Roland RP107 is much better for practice and performance tracking.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 doesn’t have recording options.
Verdict: Which One Has the Better Features?
| Feature | Roland RP107 | Yamaha YDP-105 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Built-in Sounds | 15 | 10 |
| Sound Customization | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Polyphony | 256 notes | 64 notes |
| Bluetooth MIDI & Audio | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Metronome & Learning Tools | ✅ Advanced (duet mode, Bluetooth apps) | ❌ Basic metronome only |
| Recording & Playback | ✅ Yes | ❌ No recording features |
Which One Should You Buy?
✅ Choose the Roland RP107 if you want:
- More polyphony (256 vs. 64).
- Bluetooth MIDI & Audio for wireless learning and app integration.
- More sound customization and effects.
- Recording and playback functions.
✅ Choose the Yamaha YDP-105 if you want:
- A simpler piano without extra features.
- A basic practice piano with minimal customization.
Final Winner: Roland RP107
The Roland RP107 offers significantly better features, making it the superior choice for modern players.
Connectivity
Connectivity is an important but often overlooked aspect of digital pianos. While sound and key action take priority, having good connectivity options can expand the functionality of a digital piano. Whether you want to connect to learning apps, external speakers, or a computer for music production, having the right ports and wireless capabilities can make a big difference in usability.
The Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105 offer different levels of connectivity, with Roland featuring more modern options, including Bluetooth. Let’s take a deep dive into all the connectivity features, comparing USB, Bluetooth, audio outputs, and more.
Bluetooth Connectivity
In today’s world, wireless connectivity is becoming more important. Bluetooth allows digital pianos to connect to apps and devices without the need for messy cables.
| Model | Bluetooth MIDI | Bluetooth Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | ✅ Yes (wireless MIDI connection to apps) | ✅ Yes (stream music through piano speakers) |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | ❌ No Bluetooth MIDI | ❌ No Bluetooth Audio |
Roland RP107 – Full Bluetooth Integration
The Roland RP107 includes both Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio, which dramatically expands its functionality:
- Bluetooth MIDI: Allows you to connect wirelessly to apps like GarageBand, Roland Piano Every Day, Simply Piano, and Flowkey. This means you can use music-learning apps, compose music, and record MIDI data without cables.
- Bluetooth Audio: Lets you stream music from your phone or tablet directly through the piano’s speakers. This is great for playing along with backing tracks or listening to music while practicing.
Yamaha YDP-105 – No Bluetooth Capabilities
The Yamaha YDP-105 does not include Bluetooth, meaning you must use wired connections for everything. If you want to use a learning app, you need to connect it manually with a USB cable.
Verdict on Bluetooth:
✅ Roland RP107 is the clear winner with full Bluetooth support.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 lacks Bluetooth, making it less future-proof.
USB Connectivity & Computer Integration
Most modern digital pianos come with USB ports, allowing them to connect to computers and mobile devices for music recording, digital sheet music, and virtual instruments.
| Model | USB Type | Compatible with DAWs? |
|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | USB Type-B (MIDI & Audio over USB) | ✅ Yes, works with DAWs like Logic, Ableton, GarageBand |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | USB Type-B (MIDI only) | ✅ Yes, but only for MIDI data |
Roland RP107 – USB MIDI & Audio Over USB
The Roland RP107’s USB port can transmit both MIDI and audio. This means:
- You can record MIDI performances into a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) like GarageBand, Ableton Live, or Logic Pro.
- You can use the RP107 as a USB audio interface, allowing you to send digital audio directly to a computer without needing extra cables.
Yamaha YDP-105 – USB MIDI Only
The YDP-105’s USB port only supports MIDI. This means:
- You can use it with DAWs like GarageBand or MuseScore, but only for MIDI recording—not for direct audio transmission.
- If you want to record audio, you need an external audio interface, adding extra cost and complexity.
Verdict on USB Connectivity:
✅ Roland RP107 is better because it supports both MIDI and audio over USB.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 is limited to MIDI-only, requiring extra equipment for audio recording.
Audio Outputs
If you want to connect your digital piano to external speakers, amplifiers, or recording equipment, you need dedicated audio outputs.
| Model | Audio Outputs |
|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | ✅ Stereo 1/4” Line Outputs |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | ❌ No dedicated audio outputs |
Roland RP107 – Dedicated Line Outputs
The RP107 includes stereo 1/4” line outputs, allowing you to:
- Connect to external speakers or an amplifier for better sound.
- Use the piano in a home studio setup for professional recording.
- Perform live by connecting to a PA system.
Yamaha YDP-105 – No Line Outputs
The Yamaha YDP-105 does not have dedicated audio outputs. This means:
- You cannot connect external speakers unless you use a headphone jack with a special adapter.
- Recording audio requires a workaround, making it less convenient.
Verdict on Audio Outputs:
✅ Roland RP107 is the clear winner with proper line outputs.
❌ Yamaha YDP-105 has no line outs, limiting its flexibility.
Headphone Jacks (For Quiet Practice)
Both pianos offer headphone outputs, allowing you to practice silently.
| Model | Headphone Jacks | 3D Headphone Ambience |
|---|---|---|
| Roland RP107 | ✅ 2 x 1/4” stereo jacks | ✅ Yes, immersive 3D effect |
| Yamaha YDP-105 | ✅ 2 x 1/4” stereo jacks | ❌ No 3D ambiance effect |
- Roland RP107: Features a 3D Headphone Ambience effect, which makes the sound feel more natural and spacious when using headphones.
- Yamaha YDP-105: Offers standard headphone jacks but lacks immersive effects.
Verdict on Headphones:
✅ Roland RP107 offers a better headphone experience.
✅ Yamaha YDP-105 is fine, but lacks extra headphone features.
Final Verdict: Which One Has Better Connectivity?
| Feature | Roland RP107 | Yamaha YDP-105 |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth MIDI & Audio | ✅ Yes, full Bluetooth support | ❌ No Bluetooth |
| USB MIDI & Audio Over USB | ✅ Yes, both MIDI & audio | ❌ MIDI only (no audio over USB) |
| Audio Outputs | ✅ Yes, has dedicated line-out jacks | ❌ No dedicated outputs |
| Headphone Features | ✅ Dual jacks with 3D Ambience | ✅ Dual jacks, no 3D effect |
Which One Should You Buy?
✅ Choose the Roland RP107 if you want:
- Full Bluetooth connectivity for apps and wireless audio.
- MIDI and audio over USB for recording without extra gear.
- Proper audio outputs for connecting to external speakers.
- A better headphone experience with 3D ambiance effects.
✅ Choose the Yamaha YDP-105 if you:
- Don’t need Bluetooth or external connectivity.
- Only plan to use the built-in speakers and headphones.
Final Winner: Roland RP107
The Roland RP107 is miles ahead in connectivity, offering Bluetooth, USB audio, proper line-outs, and headphone features—making it the more modern and versatile choice.
Final Verdict
After analyzing every aspect of the Roland RP107 and Yamaha YDP-105, it’s clear that one of these digital pianos offers significantly more value, features, and performance than the other.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Roland RP107 if you want:
✅ A more realistic playing experience – The PHA-4 Standard key action is superior to Yamaha’s GHS action, offering escapement and textured keys for better grip and control.
✅ Better sound quality – Roland’s SuperNATURAL modeling engine provides more organic, detailed, and expressive sound compared to Yamaha’s AWM sampling, which can feel more static.
✅ More polyphony – With 256-note polyphony, the RP107 ensures notes don’t cut off, even in complex pieces with heavy sustain use. The YDP-105’s 64-note polyphony is quite limiting.
✅ Modern connectivity – The Bluetooth MIDI & Audio capabilities allow for wireless app integration and music streaming, while the USB MIDI & Audio over USB makes it easier to record directly to a computer without extra equipment.
✅ More advanced features – Onboard recording, adjustable piano sound settings, resonance modeling, and line-out jacks make it a future-proof choice that will last for years.
Choose the Yamaha YDP-105 if you:
✅ Want a slightly cheaper option – If budget is a major concern, the YDP-105 saves you about $100, but at the cost of many missing features.
✅ Prefer a simple, traditional digital piano – If you only need a basic digital piano with no extra features, the YDP-105 still offers Yamaha’s signature sound.
Final Winner: Roland RP107
For just $100 more, the Roland RP107 provides a far superior experience in terms of key action, sound quality, connectivity, and long-term value, making it the clear choice for most buyers.