Yamaha YDP-S35 vs Roland F107 [After Thorough Analysis]

Item: Yamaha YDP-S35 vs Roland F107
Author: Eliza Brooklyn

If you’re in the market for a slim digital piano that won’t wreck your budget but still delivers an authentic playing experience, you’ve probably come across the Yamaha YDP-S35 and the Roland F107. They’re two of the top contenders in the “furniture-style but compact” category, priced around the same range and targeting home users who want both good sound and a minimalist footprint.

I’ve spent quality time with both pianos. I’ve played them side by side, dug into their functions, picked apart the specs, and tried to answer the big question: Which of these two gives you more for your money, and which one should you buy?

Let’s get into it.

🎹 Yamaha YDP-S35 vs Roland F107 Comparison Chart

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Category	Yamaha YDP-S35	Roland F107

Price	Check the best price on Amazon	Check the best price on Amazon
Keyboard Action	GHS (Graded Hammer Standard)	PHA-4 Standard with Escapement & Ivory Feel
Number of Keys	88	88
Key Surface	Matte black keys; glossy white keys	Textured ivory/ebony feel on all keys
Sound Engine	CFX Sampling (sample-based)	SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling (modeled)
Max Polyphony	192 notes	256 notes
Voices / Tones	10	15
Speaker Output	2 x 8W (16W total)	2 x 12W (24W total)
Speaker Size	2 x 12 cm	2 x 12 cm
Pedals	3 (damper, sostenuto, soft), half-pedal supported	3 (damper, sostenuto, soft), half-pedal supported
Modes	Dual, Duo	Dual, Split, Twin Piano
Recording	2-track MIDI recorder	Via Roland Piano App or external DAW (no onboard)
Metronome	Yes	Yes
Transpose & Tuning	Yes	Yes
Bluetooth MIDI	❌ No	✅ Yes
Bluetooth Audio	❌ No	✅ Yes
USB to Host	MIDI only	MIDI + Audio
USB Audio Interface	❌ No	✅ Yes
App Support	Smart Pianist (wired only)	Roland Piano App (wireless)
Headphone Output	2 x ¼” jacks (front)	2 x ¼” jacks (front)
Headphone Ambience	Stereophonic Optimizer	3D Ambience
Included Songs	353 (50 classical + 303 lesson songs)	Preset songs via app
Dimensions (WxDxH)	1350 x 296 x 792 mm	1360 x 345 x 778 mm
Weight	37 kg (81.6 lbs)	34.5 kg (76 lbs)
Cabinet Style	Flip-lid, traditional upright style	Sliding lid, modern minimalist design
Available Colors	Black, White, Dark Rosewood	Black, White
Bench Included	Yes	Yes
My individual reviews	Yamaha YDP-S35 review	–

✅ Overall Strengths Summary

Model	Strengths
YDP-S35	Classic Yamaha tone, simple interface, lesson songs, great for beginners
F107	Superior key action, Bluetooth, USB audio, better speakers, modern design

Design & Build Quality

When it comes to digital pianos designed for the home, design and build quality aren’t just about looks—they directly affect how the instrument fits into your life. You want something that not only feels good to play but also fits well in your space, doesn’t look like an eyesore, and holds up over time.

The Yamaha YDP-S35 and the Roland F107 both aim to be compact, stylish digital pianos for modern homes. But they take different approaches in how they execute that idea. Let’s unpack what it’s like to live with, look at, and play these two pianos day-to-day.

Aesthetic & Style

Yamaha YDP-S35
The YDP-S35 continues Yamaha’s Arius tradition of classic, no-nonsense design. It goes for a slightly more traditional look, especially compared to the ultra-modern styling of Roland’s F107. Its lines are soft, the finish has a subtle wood texture (depending on the color), and overall, it looks like a shrunken-down version of a conventional upright piano.

It comes in multiple finishes: black, white, and dark rosewood. The white is bright and clean, great for minimalist interiors. The black is more formal and low-key, and the dark rosewood leans traditional. Whichever you choose, it has a kind of “residential furniture” vibe. It doesn’t scream modern tech or demand attention, which can be good or bad depending on your taste.

The flip-top key cover is a Yamaha staple, and when opened, it doubles as a music rest. It’s a clever design but does feel a little old-school, and it lacks the seamlessness you’ll see in the F107’s sliding lid.

Roland F107
The F107 goes in a totally different direction—sleek, modern, almost Scandinavian in vibe. The design is more angular, with sharper corners and straighter lines. The cabinet is even slimmer than the Yamaha’s, and the finish feels smoother and slightly more premium to the touch.

It also comes in black and white, but the white Roland has a slightly matte, satin texture that feels cleaner and more modern than Yamaha’s high-gloss style. One of the best parts of the F107’s design is the sliding key cover, which retracts elegantly into the body. This makes the entire cabinet look like a piece of modern furniture when not in use—no hinges, no flip-up panels, just clean geometry.

If you’re setting this up in a small apartment, studio, or a modern living room, the Roland looks like it belongs. It blends into the background when closed, and it doesn’t have that “keyboard” look. That matters when space is tight and aesthetics count.

Space & Footprint

Both pianos are marketed as “slim” models, meant for people who don’t have room for a full upright or stage-style setup. But there’s a difference in how they use that space.

Yamaha YDP-S35

Dimensions: ~1,350 mm (W) x 296 mm (D) x 792 mm (H)
Weight: 37 kg (approx. 82 lbs)

The S35 is reasonably compact, especially in depth. You can push it against the wall, and it won’t eat into your room. That said, the overall design still looks “piano-like”—meaning it has a back panel, side panels, and a slightly thicker body than the Roland. The front legs add stability but also bulk.

The pedal unit is integrated and solid, but the crossbar can sometimes feel intrusive, especially for taller players. Still, Yamaha has kept it fairly tight without sacrificing too much structural support.

Roland F107

Dimensions: ~1,360 mm (W) x 345 mm (D) x 778 mm (H)
Weight: 34.5 kg (approx. 76 lbs)

The F107 is slightly deeper but noticeably sleeker in its visual profile. The sliding lid keeps the front flush and clean. No protruding hinges or visible panels when it’s closed. It feels more like a piece of high-end IKEA furniture than a shrunken piano.

The pedal setup is also better designed. The spacing feels more natural underfoot, and the crossbar is less in the way. The result is a playing position that feels a bit more open and ergonomic.

Materials & Finish Quality

This is one area where both brands are playing in the same league.

Yamaha YDP-S35 uses a particle board/MDF construction with a textured laminate that imitates wood grain. It doesn’t feel luxurious, but it doesn’t feel cheap either. The texture adds some tactile feedback that hides fingerprints and smudges well.

The flip-up lid is sturdy enough but can feel a little stiff or clunky. Over time, these hinges sometimes loosen depending on usage. The music rest is a little short if you’re using big sheet music books or multiple pages at once.

Roland F107, meanwhile, uses a similarly constructed MDF base but adds a slightly softer matte finish, especially on the white version. The cabinet feels a bit more rigid and modern in execution. The sliding lid operates much more smoothly than Yamaha’s flip-up, and it gives the entire instrument a tidier profile.

The music rest is minimal but well-sized, and it’s more rigid when in use. Aesthetically, Roland just feels like they’ve thought more about the day-to-day usage: fewer sharp transitions, better material flow, and smarter cable management at the back.

Assembly & Stability

Both pianos ship flat-packed and require home assembly. Expect around 30–45 minutes to put them together if you’re handy, maybe longer if you’re new to DIY builds. The instructions are clear, though Yamaha’s documentation is slightly more user-friendly.

Once assembled, both feel stable and don’t wobble. However:

Yamaha feels a bit more top-heavy, especially when the lid is open.
Roland sits flatter and distributes its weight more evenly.

Neither is ideal for constant moving around—they’re not meant to be mobile like stage pianos—but both can be repositioned with two people if needed.

Day-to-Day Usability

Using these pianos daily involves more than playing. You interact with their surfaces, drawers, covers, and accessories all the time.

Yamaha’s flip-up lid is functional but a bit dated. If you forget to close it and something spills, your keys are exposed. The front edge also becomes your music rest, which can sometimes be too close to your eyes or awkwardly angled depending on height.

Roland’s sliding cover solves both of those issues. It glides back easily and keeps everything protected. When closed, it makes the instrument look like a sideboard or desk. That’s a plus for anyone trying to minimize visual clutter in their space.

Final Thoughts on Design & Build

If you’re someone who really values aesthetic design, clean lines, and modern finishes, the Roland F107 clearly comes out ahead. It looks like it was designed for 2025, while the Yamaha YDP-S35 still leans on design choices from the early 2010s.

That doesn’t mean Yamaha’s build is poor—it’s solid, reliable, and will definitely last—but it doesn’t inspire the same kind of “this is a centerpiece in my room” feeling that the Roland gives. In a well-lit modern space, the Roland looks at home. In a more traditional setup or darker wood-tone room, Yamaha still holds its ground.

But if we’re being critical and honest? Roland F107 wins the design and build quality round. It’s simply more refined, more intuitive, and better thought-out for modern users who care about both form and function.

Keyboard Action

If there’s one thing that can make or break your experience with a digital piano, it’s the keyboard action. It’s what connects your fingers to the sound. It’s how you express dynamics, articulation, and phrasing. And it’s the thing that’ll either keep you engaged in practice or slowly frustrate you over time.

Both the Yamaha YDP-S35 and the Roland F107 aim to give players an acoustic-style experience in a compact form, but the feel between them is significantly different. Let’s get into how they compare, and what that means for different types of players.

Yamaha YDP-S35 – GHS (Graded Hammer Standard)

Yamaha’s GHS action is a staple in their lower-to-mid range digital pianos. It’s been around for years, and it’s known for being reliable, consistent, and generally “good enough” for beginners and hobbyists.

Feel and Response

GHS uses weighted plastic keys with a graded resistance system. That means the keys are heavier on the lower end (like an acoustic piano) and lighter on the higher end. The basic idea is to simulate the hammer-weight difference you’d feel on a real grand piano.

In practice, the GHS action feels relatively light. You don’t get the same sense of weight or mechanical depth that you’d find in a high-end acoustic. It’s smooth to the touch, and the resistance is uniform, but it lacks the bounce and feedback that advanced players look for when trying to control delicate passages or dynamic contrast.

If you’re a beginner or casual player, GHS does its job. It won’t feel too stiff, so it won’t discourage you from practicing. But if you’re coming from an acoustic background or aiming for expressive control, you’ll probably start to notice its limitations within a few months.

Key Surface

The white keys are glossy plastic, while the black keys have a matte finish that adds a bit of grip. There’s no “ivory feel” simulation here. Under sweaty hands or long playing sessions, the glossy keys can feel a little slippery.

Noise and Mechanics

GHS is relatively quiet, though if you play hard, you can hear some mechanical thudding through the cabinet. Nothing outrageous, but definitely noticeable in a quiet room with no headphones. Key return is fast, but not snappy.

Strengths of GHS

Light and approachable for beginners
Graded weighting simulates basic acoustic feel
Proven and reliable in Yamaha’s lineup

Weaknesses

Feels too light for serious players
No escapement or realistic rebound
Limited nuance in fast passages or repeated notes
Slippery white keys during extended play

Roland F107 – PHA-4 Standard

Roland’s PHA-4 Standard is in a different class than GHS, and it shows. While still aimed at the entry-to-mid level price range, the action here feels noticeably closer to that of a real acoustic grand piano—especially in terms of responsiveness, feedback, and overall expression.

Feel and Response

The PHA-4 Standard is a fully weighted, graded hammer action that incorporates escapement—a mechanical simulation of the notch you feel when pressing a key slowly on a grand piano. That extra tactile element gives you better feedback and makes the action feel more alive.

Key resistance is firmer than Yamaha’s GHS. Some players describe it as heavier, but that’s a good thing—it forces you to engage your fingers properly, and it gives you finer control over soft playing (pianissimo) and dynamic transitions.

Where GHS can feel a bit “mushy” or vague in the mid and high velocities, PHA-4 excels in dynamic layering. You can press a key softly and get subtle tonal color, or press hard and get a clear, cutting sound. There’s more range to how your touch affects the tone, which is especially important for classical and expressive playing.

Key Surface

Roland uses a textured material on both white and black keys that simulates ivory and ebony. It’s not just about looks—the texture provides grip, which becomes more important the longer you play.

The keys also absorb moisture better than Yamaha’s gloss finish, meaning your hands won’t slide around as easily when playing fast passages or under stage lights.

Noise and Mechanics

The key return is fast and consistent. The PHA-4 has a more “mechanical” feel than GHS, in a good way—it simulates the inertia of real hammers moving. The keys are quieter when played normally, though hard staccato playing can still produce some audible mechanical noise.

You’ll also notice better repetition behavior—notes repeat more reliably when played rapidly, which helps in trills, arpeggios, and legato technique.

Strengths of PHA-4 Standard

Realistic hammer weighting
Escapement simulation adds realism
Excellent dynamic response and expression
Ivory-feel keys provide better grip
Better for building good technique

Weaknesses

Slightly heavier action might fatigue complete beginners
Escapement can take getting used to
Some might find it less “forgiving” than lighter actions

Side-by-Side Feel Test

When you sit down at both pianos and alternate between them, the differences are immediately obvious.

On the Yamaha, you might feel like your fingers glide a bit too easily. Fast runs are easier to execute, but you also lose some control over dynamics unless you’re really careful.
On the Roland, you feel more feedback and weight under your fingers. It forces a bit more effort but rewards you with a greater sense of control, especially when playing expressively.

If you’re a beginner, the Yamaha’s lighter action can feel more accessible—but it may also encourage bad habits like shallow finger strokes or overly fast wrist movement. If you’re serious about technique, or planning to progress beyond basic chords and scales, the Roland helps you build good habits from the start.

For intermediate and advanced players, there’s really no contest: the Roland feels closer to an acoustic piano, and once you adjust to the escapement and slightly heavier feel, it becomes a far more expressive instrument.

Long-Term Perspective

Keyboard action isn’t just about the first impression—it’s about how it holds up over months or years of playing. The Yamaha GHS, while fine out of the box, doesn’t grow with you. If you get better at piano, you’ll probably start to notice its limits—especially when working on advanced dynamics, fast repetition, or expressive playing.

The Roland PHA-4, on the other hand, scales with you. It might feel a little “serious” at first, especially for younger or brand-new players, but over time, you’ll find it supports growth rather than restricting it.

Both actions are plastic-based and not wooden, which is expected at this price point. But Roland’s key pivot length and sensor precision make it feel like a more premium experience despite the similar price.

Final Verdict: Keyboard Action

Category	Winner
Key weight realism	Roland F107
Escapement simulation	Roland F107
Key surface and grip	Roland F107
Expressiveness	Roland F107
Beginner accessibility	Yamaha YDP-S35
Long-term potential	Roland F107

While Yamaha’s GHS action is tried and true, it’s also showing its age. It works, and it’s fine for new players—but it doesn’t compete with Roland’s PHA-4 Standard in terms of realism, expression, and control.

Roland F107 clearly wins the keyboard action battle. It’s more refined, more responsive, and better suited for both serious beginners and experienced players. If you care about how a piano feels to play—and you should—Roland gives you a significantly better instrument in this department.

Sound Engine

At the core of any digital piano is its sound engine — the technology behind how it generates piano tones. You can have great speakers and a beautiful cabinet, but if the actual sound isn’t convincing, you’re not going to enjoy playing for long.

The Yamaha YDP-S35 and Roland F107 represent two very different approaches to digital sound: sample-based synthesis versus behavioral modeling. Both have their strengths, but the experience they deliver is noticeably different.

Let’s unpack each one in detail.

Yamaha YDP-S35 – CFX Sampling

Yamaha’s YDP-S35 uses a sample-based sound engine, specifically the CFX Grand Piano sample set. This is a recording of Yamaha’s flagship 9-foot concert grand, the CFX, captured in a professional acoustic environment and layered into the digital piano.

How It Works

Sample-based engines take actual recordings of real instruments—each note, at different volumes—and map them across the keyboard. When you press a key, the system plays back one of those recordings. Yamaha layers multiple velocity samples to simulate dynamics (soft, medium, loud), along with additional recordings for things like pedal resonance and key-off sounds.

In the YDP-S35, this is done well enough for an entry-level home piano. The core piano tone has that distinctive bright, clear Yamaha sound—crisp in the treble, well-defined in the mids, and present in the bass (though somewhat limited by the speakers, which we’ll get to elsewhere).

Sound Quality

The tone is pleasing, especially for pop, jazz, or classical pieces where you want clarity and articulation. It cuts through nicely and has a bit of that “concert hall” shine to it. However, since the system is using pre-recorded samples, you can sometimes feel the limits.

For example:

Play softly, and you might only trigger one or two velocity layers.
Play harder, and the sound jumps suddenly instead of transitioning smoothly.
Sustain resonance is simulated, but it feels “pasted on” rather than integrated.

These are subtle things, but they affect immersion. As you get more sensitive to expression, you start to notice how the tone doesn’t morph with your touch — it switches.

Sound Variability

Yamaha includes 10 voices in total:

Grand Piano (CFX)
Mellow Grand
Pop Piano
Electric Pianos
Harpsichord
Vibraphone
Strings
Pipe Organ
Jazz Organ

The electric pianos are decent but fairly static. The strings are usable for layering, but they’re not particularly dynamic. Overall, the tone palette is limited but focused on core instruments, which makes sense for a home piano aimed at realism over variety.

Limitations of Sampling

The challenge with sampling is that it’s inherently static. You’re triggering a recording, not creating sound from a mechanical model. There’s a ceiling to how expressive it can be, and no matter how good the samples are, they eventually start to feel “predictable” if you play a lot.

Also, there’s no real interaction between the notes—no sympathetic resonance, no string overtones bleeding into each other. Yamaha adds some simulated resonance and key-off effects, but they feel like add-ons rather than integral parts of the sound.

Roland F107 – SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling

The Roland F107 takes a different route entirely. Instead of relying purely on recorded samples, it uses SuperNATURAL Piano Modeling, a hybrid synthesis system that combines samples and mathematical modeling to recreate how a piano behaves in real time.

How It Works

Instead of just playing back recordings, Roland’s SuperNATURAL engine calculates how a real piano would react to your touch:

How the hammer would strike the strings.
How the strings would vibrate and interact.
How those vibrations would resonate through the soundboard.
How notes blend, sustain, and decay.

This allows for a level of nuance and responsiveness that pure sampling just can’t match.

Sound Quality

The modeled tone in the F107 is warmer and more organic than the Yamaha’s. It’s not necessarily brighter—it actually feels more rounded and complex. The overtones evolve naturally as you hold notes. Sustain has a beautiful decay that interacts with other notes. And the dynamics respond fluidly to your playing—not just jumping from sample to sample, but flowing with your velocity and touch.

It’s especially noticeable in:

Legato phrases – notes blend naturally, even without a pedal.
Quiet passages – soft notes feel full, not just quieter.
Loud playing – the tone becomes rich and resonant, not just louder.

It feels more “alive.”

Sound Variability

The F107 has 15 tones, including:

Concert Grand (modeled)
Bright and Mellow Grands
2 Electric Pianos
Jazz & Rock Organs
Strings
Vibraphone
Harpsichord
Synth Pad

The variety is slightly broader than Yamaha’s, but the real star is the concert grand tone. Roland has clearly prioritized its modeling engine, and it shows. The other voices are usable, though not jaw-dropping. The electric pianos have more bite and modulation than Yamaha’s, and the strings are better for layering.

Expressiveness and Control

This is where Roland really pulls ahead. The continuous response from the model means that subtle changes in how you play—velocity, timing, pedal use—are reflected in the tone. It’s more expressive and satisfying, especially for intermediate or advanced players who care about dynamics, color, and articulation.

Plus, Roland includes:

String resonance – sympathetic vibrations between strings.
Damper resonance – the effect of the damper pedal lifting all strings.
Key-off simulation – the sound made when keys are released.

These are minor effects, but they add depth and realism to the soundscape. It feels more like sitting at a real instrument.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Let’s be real. Most beginners won’t immediately hear the difference between these two pianos in a noisy music store or on YouTube demos. But sit down with headphones and play them side-by-side, and it becomes obvious:

Yamaha gives you a clean, polished sample of a great grand piano, but it doesn’t respond deeply to your playing. The experience is like playing back a great recording.
Roland gives you a tone that breathes and responds. It evolves with you. The experience is like interacting with the piano, not just triggering it.

Headphone Sound

Both pianos sound much better with headphones than through their onboard speakers. However, Roland takes the edge here again.

With headphones:

Roland uses 3D Ambience technology to simulate space and depth in your ears.
The modeled tones really shine—especially sustain and decay.

Yamaha sounds good, but flatter. There’s less spatial realism, and the stereo image isn’t as immersive.

Polyphony

Yamaha YDP-S35: 192-note polyphony
Roland F107: 256-note polyphony

Polyphony matters more when layering sounds, playing complex classical music, or using the damper pedal heavily. In normal use, both are sufficient, but Roland gives you more headroom.

Final Verdict: Sound Engine

Category	Winner
Core Piano Tone	Roland F107
Expression & Nuance	Roland F107
Resonance Simulation	Roland F107
Sample Quality	Yamaha YDP-S35
Voice Variety	Roland F107
Realism with Headphones	Roland F107
Dynamic Range	Roland F107

Yamaha’s CFX samples sound good—no question. They’re clean, polished, and will please most casual players. But they don’t adapt to your playing the way Roland’s SuperNATURAL modeling does.

If sound realism and expressiveness are priorities, the Roland F107 is the clear winner. It just feels more alive, more reactive, and more enjoyable to play long-term.

Yamaha gets points for clarity and a reliable tone. But Roland brings the emotion. And in piano playing, that’s everything.

Speakers

Speaker quality is one of those things that’s often overlooked when buying a digital piano — but it shouldn’t be. Even the best sound engine will fall flat if the speakers can’t do it justice. The Yamaha YDP-S35 and Roland F107 are both compact home pianos, and as such, their speaker systems are modest. But the differences in tone, clarity, and projection become very noticeable once you start playing them side-by-side.

Let’s break down what each model offers in terms of sound projection, power, and real-world listening experience.

Yamaha YDP-S35 – Speaker System

Specs:

2 x 8W amplifiers (total 16W output)
2 x 12cm full-range speakers
Speaker location: Under the keyboard, downward-facing

The Yamaha YDP-S35 uses a relatively standard stereo speaker setup for this class of piano. The speakers are mounted below the keyboard in the underside of the cabinet and project downward toward the floor.

Sound Character

The sound profile of the YDP-S35 leans toward clarity and brightness, in line with Yamaha’s overall voicing. You get a clean tone, especially in the mid and upper registers, and the stereo field is reasonably defined when sitting at the piano.

However, the bass is somewhat lacking. The 8W speakers just don’t move a lot of air, and when you play lower notes or use the damper pedal to sustain a full chord, the low end can feel weak or muddy — not distorted, but shallow. This becomes even more apparent in larger rooms where the sound gets swallowed by the space.

The volume level is adequate for personal use, practice, and small rooms. It’ll comfortably fill a bedroom or living room with sound, but don’t expect to entertain a crowd or create a truly immersive playing experience with these speakers alone.

Limitations

Lacks bass presence. The low frequencies feel thin, especially for pieces that rely on rich harmonics or dramatic left-hand chords.
Narrow projection. The sound is mostly directed downward and bounces off the floor. There’s not much diffusion into the room unless you’re sitting directly in front of it.
Flat dynamic response. The speakers do not fully translate the dynamic differences between soft and loud passages, especially when playing expressive classical or jazz pieces.

To be fair, the Yamaha doesn’t sound bad — it just sounds small. If you’re mostly playing at moderate volumes or with headphones, it’s fine. But if you’re hoping for that “wow” moment when you sit down and hit a big chord, you may come away a little underwhelmed.

Roland F107 – Speaker System

Specs:

2 x 12W amplifiers (total 24W output)
2 x 12cm speakers
Speaker location: Bottom-mounted but designed for forward and downward dispersion

At first glance, the Roland’s setup looks similar — two full-range speakers under the cabinet. But the extra power (12W per side) and the design of the speaker system make a real difference.

Sound Character

The Roland F107 has a fuller, warmer, and more balanced tone through its speakers. This is partly due to the speakers themselves and partly due to the modeling engine’s more nuanced sound output. The result is a system that sounds more “3D” and expressive in the room.

The bass response is noticeably stronger. When you play deep notes or rich chords, you feel more of the body and weight of the piano. This makes a big difference in pieces that rely on a wide dynamic range or deep tonal color — think Debussy, Chopin, or anything with sweeping low-register accompaniment.

Even at low volumes, the Roland maintains clarity and presence. The dynamic expression translates better, meaning pianissimo passages still sound detailed, and fortissimo passages don’t distort.

Projection and Spatial Feel

One of Roland’s strengths is how the sound feels like it’s coming from the piano instead of below it. The F107 doesn’t use a soundboard system (like on more expensive Roland models), but the speaker design creates a more natural spread of sound across the space.

In a medium-sized room, the Roland has a better ability to “fill the space” without cranking the volume. And when you do turn it up, the sound retains integrity without becoming harsh or tinny.

Limitations

Still not comparable to higher-end models with multi-speaker or spatial projection systems.
At high volumes, complex passages can lose some definition.
Speaker positioning is not ideal for listeners standing away from the piano—it’s really tuned for the player’s position.

Head-to-Head Listening Experience

At Moderate Volume:

Yamaha sounds clean but small. The highs are present, the mids are okay, but the lows are weak.
Roland sounds fuller and richer. It’s more balanced across the range and has better warmth.

At Higher Volume:

Yamaha begins to lose depth and gets a bit brittle in the treble.
Roland holds up better and projects more confidently into the room.

At Low Volume:

Yamaha becomes a bit too soft; detail is lost.
Roland still retains clarity and a sense of dynamics.

Wearing Headphones:
Both pianos sound significantly better through headphones than speakers. Yamaha’s CFX sample shines through a good set of headphones, offering clean stereo imaging and a polished tone. But Roland has the edge again, thanks to:

Headphones 3D Ambience — a feature that simulates room space, making it feel like the sound is coming from in front of you instead of inside your head.
More nuanced expression — the modeling engine really opens up through headphones, giving you subtleties that onboard speakers can’t convey.

Practical Use Considerations

If you’re mostly using your digital piano with headphones or in a small practice room, the speaker difference may not be a dealbreaker. But if you:

Play a lot without headphones
Want to perform for friends or family
Care about rich sound that fills a room
Prefer a more immersive acoustic experience

…then the Roland F107’s speaker system is the more satisfying choice.

The extra 8W of power doesn’t sound like much on paper, but in real-world use, it adds crucial body and presence. Combine that with Roland’s better sound modeling and dispersion, and the overall sound feels more natural and engaging.

Final Verdict: Speakers

Criteria	Winner
Volume and Power	Roland F107
Bass Response	Roland F107
Dynamic Expression	Roland F107
Clarity at Low Volume	Roland F107
Immersiveness	Roland F107
Headphone Experience	Roland F107
Speaker Quality Overall	Roland F107

The Roland F107 clearly wins this round. Yamaha’s speakers are serviceable, but Roland delivers a more satisfying, musical experience — especially for those who don’t plan to use headphones all the time.

In short: Yamaha’s speakers do the job. Roland’s speakers make the job enjoyable.

Features & Functions

Beyond keyboard action and sound quality, what really separates a good digital piano from a great one is its features and functionality — all the extra tools that make it easier (and more enjoyable) to play, learn, practice, and integrate into your lifestyle.

The Yamaha YDP-S35 and Roland F107 are both “home pianos,” but Roland leans into modern tech a bit more, while Yamaha keeps things fairly straightforward and traditional. Let’s dive into what each model offers — and where each one might shine or fall short, depending on your needs.

Built-In Sounds & Polyphony

Yamaha YDP-S35

10 voices total
192-note polyphony
Includes 3 grand pianos (CFX Concert, Mellow, Pop), electric pianos, strings, harpsichord, pipe organ, jazz organ, vibraphone

The voice selection is modest but focused. Yamaha knows most people buying this piano want one really good grand piano sound — and they deliver that with the CFX Concert sample. The other sounds are there more for variety or layering, but they’re not the stars of the show.

Roland F107

15 voices total
256-note polyphony
Includes 3 modeled acoustic pianos, 2 electric pianos, strings, harpsichord, organs, pad, vibraphone

Roland gives you more tones and more polyphony. That extra headroom (256 notes vs 192) becomes noticeable when you start layering sounds, using the damper pedal, or playing complex classical pieces where multiple notes are sustaining at once. You’re less likely to encounter “note stealing,” where the oldest note gets cut off to make room for new ones.

Winner: Roland F107 — more voices, more polyphony, more flexibility.

Reverb, Ambience & Effects

Yamaha YDP-S35

Reverb (4 types)
Damper Resonance (on/off)
Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC)
Stereophonic Optimizer (for headphones)

Yamaha offers solid basic effects. The reverb adds spaciousness, and the IAC feature automatically adjusts EQ depending on volume level, helping to maintain clarity when playing softly. Stereophonic Optimizer improves headphone realism by simulating the feel of playing in a room.

However, customization is limited — you can toggle things on or off and choose from presets, but that’s about it.

Roland F107

Ambience, Brilliance controls
String Resonance
Damper Resonance
Key-Off Resonance
Headphones 3D Ambience
Touch Sensitivity (100 levels via app)

Roland provides a deeper level of control. You can fine-tune the piano’s tonal character, the environmental acoustics, and how the piano responds to your playing. These aren’t just window dressing — they actually affect how expressive the piano feels.

The 3D Ambience on headphones is also more immersive than Yamaha’s, giving you a wider soundstage that makes long headphone sessions less fatiguing.

Winner: Roland F107 — more detailed and adjustable effects for a tailored experience.

Playing Modes (Layering, Splitting, Duet)

Yamaha YDP-S35

Dual Mode (layer two sounds)
Duo Mode (splits keyboard into two equal ranges for teacher/student)
No true Split Mode (no bass + lead split)

Dual mode works as expected — you can layer piano and strings, for instance, but you can’t control the balance between the layers. The Duo mode is great for teaching or playing duets at the same octave.

Roland F107

Dual Mode
Twin Piano Mode
Split Mode
Balance Control via app

Roland includes all the above, plus Split Mode, allowing you to play, say, bass in the left hand and electric piano or vibes in the right. This is really useful for jazz or pop practice. Using the app, you can also adjust the volume balance between the split sounds or layered tones — something Yamaha doesn’t offer.

Winner: Roland F107 — more versatile, especially for creative or performance use.

Recording & Practice Tools

Yamaha YDP-S35

2-track MIDI recorder
Metronome
Transpose
Tuning adjustment
Built-in 50 classical pieces + 303 lesson songs
Playback controls via buttons or app

You can record one song with two separate parts (left and right hand) using MIDI. It’s useful for practice and evaluating performance, but it’s fairly basic. You can’t record audio directly, and exporting MIDI requires connecting to a device.

The built-in lesson songs are a great feature, especially for beginners. The included 303 song library supports practice with one hand at a time, and you can follow along using Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app.

Roland F107

No onboard recorder (requires app or DAW)
Metronome
Transpose
Tuning adjustment
Twin Piano for side-by-side practice
Bluetooth MIDI/audio for app integration and wireless recording
USB Audio Interface (record directly to computer)

Here’s where Roland splits opinion. It doesn’t include an onboard recorder, which might disappoint users who want to quickly capture something without an external device. However, it integrates smoothly with apps and DAWs via Bluetooth or USB, making it perfect for people already working digitally.

The USB audio interface feature is a big win — it allows you to record the piano’s sound directly into your computer with no audio interface or mic needed. Yamaha lacks this.

Winner: Tie — Yamaha is better for casual, standalone practice. Roland is better for digital recording and creative workflow.

App Integration

Yamaha YDP-S35

Compatible with Smart Pianist app
Wired connection required (USB to Lightning or USB-C)
App allows tone selection, song playback, and some settings
Visual Score Display for built-in songs

Yamaha’s Smart Pianist is well-designed but requires a USB cable to connect. Once connected, it’s easier to use than the button/key combos on the piano itself. However, there’s no Bluetooth, so the setup is more cluttered.

Roland F107

Compatible with Roland Piano App
Connects via Bluetooth (no cables needed)
Control tones, metronome, layers, settings
Access digital sheet music, practice tracking, and challenges
Stream audio from phone/tablet to piano speakers

The app integration is one of the Roland’s biggest strengths. Setup is quick, wireless, and it significantly enhances usability. You can adjust everything from tone to ambience to sensitivity without touching a button on the piano.

Bluetooth audio also means you can play backing tracks, YouTube lessons, or Spotify through the piano speakers — great for jamming or casual play.

Winner: Roland F107 — seamless, wireless integration that actually improves the experience.

Connectivity

Yamaha YDP-S35

USB to Host (MIDI only)
Dual headphone jacks
No Bluetooth
No USB Audio

Roland F107

USB to Host (MIDI + Audio)
Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio
Dual headphone jacks
USB Audio Interface

Roland wins hands down here. Bluetooth is a game-changer — not just for app control, but for music streaming and wireless MIDI to DAWs. Plus, the USB audio interface lets you record directly into your computer, which Yamaha cannot do without additional hardware.

Winner: Roland F107 — modern connectivity that supports more advanced and creative users.

Final Verdict: Features & Functions

Feature	Winner
Voice Variety	Roland F107
Polyphony	Roland F107
Effects & Resonance	Roland F107
Playing Modes	Roland F107
Recording Options	Tie (Yamaha: better onboard, Roland: better external)
Practice Tools	Yamaha YDP-S35
App Control	Roland F107
Connectivity	Roland F107

Overall Winner: Roland F107

Roland offers more in nearly every category — more sounds, more flexibility, more modern features, and a significantly better tech experience. Yamaha’s simplicity may appeal to some, especially beginners who want less to think about. But if you want a digital piano that grows with you and offers tools for creativity, learning, and performance, Roland clearly takes the lead here.

Connectivity

When choosing a digital piano today, connectivity isn’t just a side note — it’s a big part of how you’ll actually use the instrument. Whether you’re recording music, using a learning app, or just want to play quietly with headphones, the connectivity options define how easily the piano fits into your digital life.

Both the Yamaha YDP-S35 and Roland F107 are marketed as compact home digital pianos, and both offer basic headphone and USB connectivity. But once you go beyond the basics, they differ a lot. One is a bit old-school. The other is designed for the way people use tech today.

Let’s break it all down.

Basic Physical Connections

Let’s start with what’s physically built into each instrument.

Yamaha YDP-S35

USB to Host port (MIDI only)
2 x 1/4-inch headphone jacks (front-facing)
DC power input
No dedicated Line Out, USB Audio, or Bluetooth

This is a minimalist setup. You can plug in a pair of headphones, and you can connect to a computer or mobile device using USB — but that USB connection only sends and receives MIDI, not audio. This means you can record or control virtual instruments (VSTs), but you can’t record the actual sound of the YDP-S35 directly into your computer via USB.

If you want to record audio, you’d need an external audio interface and some workaround (like plugging headphones out into a recording device — not ideal).

Roland F107

USB to Host port (MIDI and Audio)
2 x 1/4-inch headphone jacks
DC power input
Bluetooth 4.0 (MIDI + Audio)

Roland gives you everything Yamaha does — and then some. Not only can you transmit MIDI over USB, but you can also transmit audio. That means you can plug your F107 directly into your computer and record your actual performance in full fidelity, with no audio interface or microphones needed.

Plus, you get Bluetooth — more on that in a minute.

Winner: Roland F107 — Yamaha gives you the basics, Roland gives you the full package.

Bluetooth Connectivity

This is where things really split.

Yamaha YDP-S35:
No Bluetooth. Everything must be done through wired USB connection.

To connect Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app, you’ll need:

A USB cable
A USB-to-Lightning adapter (for iPhone/iPad), or
A USB-C adapter (for Android/tablets)

It works, but it’s more cable clutter, and it’s not as elegant as Bluetooth. Yamaha does offer Bluetooth MIDI on some Clavinova and P-series models, but the YDP-S35 doesn’t include it.

Roland F107:
Fully Bluetooth-enabled for:

MIDI (wireless communication with DAWs, apps, and music software)
Audio streaming (play music from your phone/tablet through the piano’s speakers)

This makes a huge difference in day-to-day use. You can:

Connect to the Roland Piano App with no cables
Stream backing tracks from YouTube or Spotify through the piano’s speakers
Practice with online lessons or tutorials without plugging in
Wirelessly send MIDI to GarageBand or other DAWs

The audio streaming is surprisingly clean, and volume is controlled from your device. It’s a very convenient way to turn the piano into a speaker system for practice or casual music listening.

Winner: Roland F107 — It’s not even close. Bluetooth MIDI + audio makes the F107 feel like a 2025 product. The YDP-S35 feels stuck in 2015.

USB Audio Interface Functionality

This might sound technical, but it’s crucial for anyone who records music.

Yamaha YDP-S35:

MIDI only via USB
No audio over USB
To record actual sound: you need to route audio through a headphone jack into an external audio interface (and potentially lose some fidelity in the process)

Roland F107:

Sends both MIDI and high-quality audio over USB
Acts as a USB Audio Interface for your computer
Plug-and-play: connect it to a DAW like Logic Pro, GarageBand, FL Studio, or Ableton, and record instantly

This is incredibly helpful for:

YouTubers who want to record piano covers
Songwriters laying down tracks
Anyone who prefers digital audio workflows over mic’ing speakers
Practicing pianists who want to self-record with zero setup

Winner: Roland F107 — Having a built-in audio interface streamlines everything.

Headphone Use & Practice

Both pianos include two 1/4″ headphone jacks, allowing for silent practice with a partner, teacher, or family member.

Yamaha YDP-S35:

Dual jacks are convenient
Includes Stereophonic Optimizer, which simulates the spatial feel of playing a grand piano in a room, through headphones
Works best with good-quality stereo headphones
You’ll need an adapter if your headphones use a 3.5mm plug

Roland F107:

Also has dual jacks
Uses Headphones 3D Ambience, which is a bit more refined
Spatial modeling is slightly more realistic and immersive
Same 1/4” jack setup; adapter needed for 3.5mm headphones

The headphone experience is strong on both, but Roland’s 3D Ambience has an edge, especially during long sessions. It avoids that “sound stuck in your head” feeling and spreads the tone more naturally.

Winner: Roland F107, by a slim margin.

App Control & Learning Integration

App connectivity is technically a separate topic, but it overlaps heavily with how connectivity works in practice.

Yamaha YDP-S35 with Smart Pianist:

Requires USB connection
Allows you to choose tones, control metronome, and visualize built-in songs
Includes access to lesson songs and learning tools
Interface is clean, but requires physical tethering

Roland F107 with Roland Piano App:

Wireless connection via Bluetooth
Access to all piano settings, tuning, touch curves, sound editing
Built-in practice tracker, recorder (via app), and digital sheet music
More modern design and fewer limitations

Winner: Roland F107 — The freedom of wireless control matters a lot in everyday use.

Integration with Other Gear

If you’re someone who uses:

DAWs (like Logic, FL Studio, or Ableton)
Notation software (like Sibelius or MuseScore)
iOS/Android music apps
Audio interfaces, mixers, or live setups

Then Roland’s wider support makes it easier to integrate into your workflow. Having audio + MIDI over one USB cable is a game-changer for musicians who work digitally.

Yamaha’s MIDI-only output still works — but it’s one step behind.

Final Verdict: Connectivity

Feature	Winner
USB MIDI	Tie
USB Audio	Roland F107
Bluetooth MIDI	Roland F107
Bluetooth Audio Streaming	Roland F107
App Integration (ease of use)	Roland F107
Headphone Ambience	Roland (slight edge)
Overall Device Compatibility	Roland F107

Summary

The Yamaha YDP-S35 covers the essentials. You can use headphones. You can plug it into a computer for MIDI. You can connect to the Smart Pianist app (with a cable). It works — but it doesn’t do anything particularly forward-thinking.

The Roland F107, by contrast, is built for the modern digital lifestyle:

Bluetooth MIDI and audio let you go wireless for practice, recording, and playback.
USB Audio Interface saves you time and money on extra gear.
Deeper headphone experience and easier app control make it feel intuitive from day one.

If you want a piano that easily connects to your phone, tablet, DAW, or digital workflow, there’s no question:
Roland F107 wins this round — decisively.

Value for Money

When it comes to digital pianos in the $900–$1,200 range, value for money isn’t just about how low the price is. It’s about what you get for that price — not only in terms of features, but how useful, enjoyable, and future-proof the instrument is.

Both the Yamaha YDP-S35 and the Roland F107 sit in this mid-range category. Neither is cheap, but they’re far more affordable than flagship models and aimed at serious beginners, hobbyists, or intermediate players who want a furniture-style digital piano that feels like a real instrument.

Here’s how they compare in terms of what your money actually buys you.

Price Point

Yamaha YDP-S35 typically sells for $1,099 USD, including bench and 3-pedal unit.
Roland F107 is often listed around $1,099–$1,199 USD, also with bench and 3-pedal unit.

Pricing varies slightly by region and retailer, but they’re generally within $100 of each other — so we’re not talking about a huge price gap.

On paper, they’re close. But once you break down what you get for your money, the differences become more meaningful.

What You Get for the Money

Yamaha YDP-S35

A reliable digital piano with a beautiful CFX sampled grand piano tone.
Yamaha’s GHS key action (good for beginners, a bit limiting long-term).
Basic features like a 2-track MIDI recorder, metronome, lesson songs.
Classic upright piano aesthetic — clean, traditional, and solid.
No Bluetooth, no USB audio, limited effects.

Yamaha is offering stability, heritage, and a no-frills home piano experience. It’s straightforward. It plays well. And it’s built to last. If you don’t care about modern features or deep expressiveness, it’s a safe bet.

Roland F107

A modern digital piano with a powerful SuperNATURAL modeled engine.
Roland’s PHA-4 Standard key action (more realistic, better expression).
Bluetooth MIDI and audio streaming.
USB audio interface function for direct recording into your computer.
Deeper effects engine, more tonal variation, better speakers.
Sleek, modern cabinet design that fits contemporary spaces.

Here, Roland is giving you a lot of forward-thinking value. More features. More advanced sound tech. More integration with your devices. And better responsiveness for expressive playing.

Short-Term vs Long-Term Value

If you’re just starting out, either piano will serve you well. Yamaha’s lighter action may even feel easier for brand-new players. But what happens after 6–12 months?

Yamaha’s GHS action might start to feel too light or simplistic as your touch control improves. If you’re practicing daily and growing musically, you may outgrow it sooner than you’d like.
Roland’s PHA-4 Standard action has more longevity. It rewards better technique and supports advanced playing. It’s also more similar to acoustic grands — better preparation if you plan to switch later.

Likewise, Roland’s sound engine and connectivity make it a better investment if you ever want to:

Record music
Use apps
Stream backing tracks
Plug into a DAW
Learn piano more interactively

In short: Roland offers room to grow, while Yamaha is more of a steady, simpler experience.

Resale Value

Both Yamaha and Roland hold their resale value well, especially when kept in good condition. Yamaha benefits from strong brand recognition — it’s often the first name beginners trust. So resale on the S35 will be solid.

That said, as digital pianos evolve, features like Bluetooth and USB Audio are becoming expected. In a few years, the F107’s tech-forward design may make it more attractive on the used market compared to the more dated S35.

Who Gets More Value?

Buy the Yamaha YDP-S35 if:

You’re focused strictly on piano basics.
You don’t need Bluetooth or app integration.
You’re okay with a more traditional action.
You want something simple, no-frills, and reliable.

Buy the Roland F107 if:

You want a more realistic feel and expressive sound.
You plan to use Bluetooth, apps, or DAWs.
You care about long-term growth or audio recording.
You want your digital piano to feel modern and “connected.”

Final Verdict

Criteria	Winner
Features per Dollar	Roland F107
Long-Term Usability	Roland F107
Beginner Accessibility	Yamaha YDP-S35
Recording & Tech Integration	Roland F107
Resale Value	Slight edge to Roland

At the same price point, Roland gives you more — more realism, more features, and more flexibility. Yamaha gives you a well-built piano with classic simplicity, but the F107 is better positioned for today’s (and tomorrow’s) digital lifestyle.

Verdict: Roland F107 offers better value for money.

Other Considerations

While specs and features often dominate the decision-making process, there are several smaller but important factors that can impact day-to-day use. These don’t always show up on product pages, but they can make a noticeable difference in how enjoyable and practical the instrument is in your home. Let’s go over a few of those.

Pedals

Both the Yamaha YDP-S35 and Roland F107 include a three-pedal unit built into the cabinet. These simulate the traditional acoustic piano pedals: soft (una corda), sostenuto, and damper (sustain).

Yamaha’s pedal system is well built and sturdy. It supports half-pedaling, which allows for more nuanced control of sustain — great for classical music and expressive playing. However, to get accurate half-pedaling, you might need to tweak settings via the Smart Pianist app.

Roland’s pedal setup is equally sturdy, but has a more refined feel, and half-pedaling works out of the box. The damper response also interacts more realistically with the SuperNATURAL modeling engine, simulating how strings would actually respond under varying pedal pressure.

Verdict: Slight edge to Roland for plug-and-play realism and responsiveness.

Assembly

Both pianos arrive flat-packed and require home assembly. Expect around 30–45 minutes for a typical build. You’ll need a screwdriver and maybe a second person to help hold the parts in place.

Yamaha’s instructions are clear and beginner-friendly. The build process is straightforward.

Roland’s build is similarly simple but slightly more compact in design. The sliding lid mechanism is easier to handle than Yamaha’s flip-top, and the lighter weight makes positioning easier.

Verdict: Tie. Both are manageable to assemble with a little patience.

Noise & Key Action Sound

Neither piano is particularly noisy, but the Yamaha GHS action is a bit quieter overall. Roland’s PHA-4 action has a more mechanical feel and produces more audible thuds during energetic play — nothing excessive, but noticeable in a quiet room without headphones.

If you live in a shared space or thin-walled apartment, this could matter.

Verdict: Yamaha is quieter; Roland is more tactile. Choose based on your sensitivity to mechanical noise.

Included Accessories

Both typically include:

A matching bench
Integrated music rest
Built-in pedal unit
Power adapter and assembly tools

Neither includes a sustain pedal for portability, but that’s expected given the cabinet style.

Verdict: Equal. What’s in the box is consistent and practical across both.

Maintenance & Durability

Both brands are known for build quality and longevity. There’s no need for tuning, and internal components are protected within the closed cabinet design.

Yamaha has a slight reputation edge for long-term durability, but Roland has caught up and now matches that standard.

Verdict: Tie. Both are reliable, low-maintenance instruments.

Final Note

While these aren’t headline-grabbing features, they’re part of your daily experience with the piano. Roland edges out Yamaha in terms of pedal realism and cabinet ergonomics, while Yamaha stays slightly quieter during intense playing. Assembly and durability are equally strong on both fronts.

Bottom line: both are solid — but Roland shows just a little more attention to modern usability.

Final Verdict

After comparing the Yamaha YDP-S35 and Roland F107 across every major category — design, keyboard action, sound engine, speakers, features, connectivity, and overall value — the conclusion is straightforward: the Roland F107 offers more for roughly the same price.

Yamaha’s YDP-S35 is a solid, well-built digital piano. It delivers a reliable piano experience with a recognizable Yamaha tone and a familiar, traditional design. It’s simple, functional, and will appeal to players who want a no-fuss instrument that just works. If your needs are basic, or you strongly prefer Yamaha’s CFX piano tone, the S35 will serve you well — especially for beginners or casual home players.

But when you factor in Roland’s more realistic PHA-4 key action, SuperNATURAL modeling, Bluetooth connectivity, USB audio, better speaker output, and a cleaner, more modern aesthetic, it becomes clear that Roland has built a piano that’s simply more capable and future-ready.

The F107 doesn’t just mimic an acoustic piano — it interacts with your playing. It feels more responsive, sounds more expressive, and integrates seamlessly with modern tech. Whether you want to stream music through your piano, connect wirelessly to an app, or record your performance into a DAW with a single USB cable, the Roland handles it without needing extra gear or workarounds.

In short, Yamaha is safe — Roland is smart.

So unless you have a strong brand preference or are only focused on traditional simplicity, the Roland F107 is the better long-term investment, and the better digital piano overall. It’s the one that will grow with you, challenge you, and integrate into your life with less effort and more reward.

Winner: Roland F107.