Medeli
SP201
$300
Hammer-action 88 keys at a budget-breaking price
7.1 Beginner 5.5 Night Practice 5.5 Portability 5.3 Touch Reality 7.0 Value
88 12 kg
View Details Donner
Donner DEP-60 Review
88 weighted keys for under $250 — the budget king
88 Keys 10 kg hammer action Beginner
Scores
How These Scores Were Calculated
Beginner
6.6| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Base Score | — | 3.0 |
| Lesson Function | No | +0 |
| App Connectivity | No | +0 |
| Recording | Yes | +1 |
| Metronome | Yes | +0.5 |
| Transpose | Yes | +0.3 |
| Layer / Split | Yes | +0.3 |
| Preset Songs | 30 | +1 |
| Sound Variety | 128 sounds | +0.5 |
Night Practice
5.5| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Base Score | — | 2.0 |
| Headphone Jacks | 1 | +1 |
| Headphone Type | 6.3mm | +1 |
| Headphone Optimization | No | +0 |
| Key Action Quietness | hammer action | +0.5 |
| Volume Control | Yes | +1 |
| Bluetooth Audio | No | +0 |
Portability
6.0| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Base Score | — | 5.0 |
| Weight | 10 kg | +1 |
| Width | 1320 mm | +0 |
| Battery | No | +0 |
| Foldable | No | +0 |
| Key Count | 88 keys | +0 |
Touch Reality
5.3| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Key Action Quality | hammer action (grade 5) | +3 |
| Key Count | 88 keys | +1.5 |
| Polyphony | 128 notes | +0.8 |
| Sound Modeling | No | +0 |
| Key Surface | plastic | +0 |
Our Verdict
The Donner DEP-60 puts a full 88-key weighted keyboard in your hands for around $250, making it one of the most affordable ways to start learning piano with a proper-sized instrument.
Pros
- • Exceptionally affordable — full 88 weighted keys under $250
- • Lightweight at 10kg — easy to move and store
- • 128-note polyphony is generous for the price
- • 128 built-in sounds with recording capability
- • USB MIDI connectivity for music production software
- • Compact profile at only 88mm height
Cons
- • No Bluetooth connectivity
- • No lesson function or app connectivity
- • Hammer action is basic and lacks finesse
- • 15W speakers are quiet — fine for practice, not for filling a room
- • Stand not included — budget $30-50 for an X-stand
The DEP-60 answers a simple question: what is the cheapest way to get 88 weighted keys? At under $250, it is hard to argue with the value. You get a full-size keyboard, decent polyphony, a variety of sounds, and USB MIDI — all in a package that weighs just 10kg. The compromises are predictable: the key action is basic, the speakers are modest, and there are no modern learning features. But as a tool for discovering whether you enjoy playing piano, the DEP-60 does its job. If you fall in love with the instrument, you can upgrade later with confidence. If not, you have not spent a fortune finding out.
Technical Deep Dive
About the Key Action
The DEP-60 uses a basic hammer action mechanism. It provides weighted resistance and some grading from bass to treble, but the feel is noticeably simpler than instruments from Yamaha, Casio, or even Donner's own higher-end models. The plastic keys are functional but lack the textured surface that helps with grip during longer sessions. For an absolute beginner, the action is sufficient to develop basic finger strength and coordination. However, players who try a more refined action will immediately notice the difference. At this price point, the key action is exactly what you would expect — adequate, not inspiring.
Who Is This Piano For?
The DEP-60 is for the absolute beginner who wants to try piano without making a significant financial commitment. If you are not sure whether piano is for you and you want to spend the minimum amount on a full-size weighted keyboard, the DEP-60 removes the financial barrier. At 10kg, it is easy to set up on a desk or table when you want to practice and put away when you are done. The 128 sounds and recording feature add some fun beyond basic practice. It also works as a budget MIDI controller for music production via USB. Just understand that this is a starter instrument — the key action and speaker system will eventually feel limiting as your skills develop. But at under $250, the risk of trying is minimal.
Specifications
| Keys | 88 |
| Key Action | Hammer Action |
| Polyphony | 128 notes |
| Sounds | 128 |
| Weight | 10 kg |
| Speakers | 15W (×2) |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Key Surface | Plastic |
| Sound Modeling | — |
| Headphone Jacks | 1 |
| Headphone Type | 6.3mm |
| Headphone Optimization | No |
| USB MIDI | Yes |
| Line Out | Yes |
| Lesson Function | No |
| App Connectivity | No |
| Recording | Yes |
| Metronome | Yes |
| Transpose | Yes |
| Layer / Split | Yes |
| Preset Songs | 30 |
| Battery | No |
| Foldable | No |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 1320×280×88 mm |
| Stand Included | No |
| Pedal Included | Yes |
Recommended Accessories
🪑
Stand
Stand not included (sold separately)
A sturdy X-stand or furniture-style stand is essential if one isn't included.
🎧
Headphones
Closed-back headphones with good bass response make practice sessions more enjoyable.
🎹
Sustain Pedal
The included pedal is usually basic. A half-damper pedal upgrade is worthwhile for expressive playing.
💺
Bench
An adjustable-height bench helps maintain proper posture during long practice sessions.
How It Compares
DEP-60 vs SP201
The DEP-60 scores higher in Portability, while the SP201 edges ahead in Beginner. Choose the DEP-60 if you prioritize portability.
Medeli SP201 →DEP-60 vs RP35
The DEP-60 scores higher in Beginner and Portability and Value. Choose the DEP-60 if you prioritize beginner-friendly features.
Ringway RP35 →DEP-60 vs PA-88H
The DEP-60 scores higher in Beginner and Value. Choose the DEP-60 if you prioritize beginner-friendly features.
Artesia PA-88H →Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Donner DEP-60 good for beginners?
It's decent for beginners. The Donner DEP-60 scores 6.6/10 on our Beginner scale — it covers the basics but may lack some advanced learning features found in higher-scoring models.
Does the Donner DEP-60 have Bluetooth?
No, the Donner DEP-60 does not have Bluetooth. You'll need a USB cable for app connectivity.
How heavy is the Donner DEP-60?
The Donner DEP-60 weighs 10 kg (22 lbs). It scores 6/10 on our Portability scale. This is light enough to carry between rooms or to lessons.
Can I use headphones with the Donner DEP-60?
Yes. The Donner DEP-60 has 1 headphone jack (6.3mm). It scores 5.5/10 on our Night Practice scale.
How many keys does the Donner DEP-60 have?
The Donner DEP-60 has a full 88-key keyboard, the same as an acoustic piano. This gives you the complete range for any piece of music.
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5.7 Beginner 5.5 Night Practice 5.5 Portability 4.9 Touch Reality 6.6 Value
88 12 kg
View Details Artesia
PA-88H
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The cheapest hammer-action piano you can buy
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View Details