Yamaha P-223 Portable Digital Piano

The Yamaha P-223 gets a lot of praise — it hits a sweet spot between feel, sound, portability and features. Currently a limited run here in the UK, it sits between the P-145 and the P-225. Here are its strong points, trade-offs, and who it’s especially good for.

What makes the P-223 so great:

Authentic, weighted keyboard feel (GHC action)

The P-223 uses the Graded Hammer Compact (GHC) action with 88 fully weighted keys. That means it simulates the resistance of an acoustic piano, so when you play softer/louder, or faster passages, you get a more realistic response under your fingers. Even though it’s a “compact” mechanism, users report that it still gives that solid piano-like feel.

Great sound with premium piano sample + expression

It features the Yamaha CFX concert grand piano sample, which is one of Yamaha’s top-tier grand piano tones. It also includes Virtual Resonance Modeling (VRM Lite). This adds realistic resonance from the strings and more expressive tonal variation when using dynamics or sustain.

Good polyphony, voices & flexibility

It supports up to 192-note polyphony, which is ample for most pieces, including layered sounds or sustained chords without dropping voices. It has 24 preset voices (instruments), and supports modes like Dual (layer), Split, and Duo, which broaden what you can do (e.g. combining piano + strings, or splitting keyboard).

Good speaker system, and sound suited for real-world use

Dual speakers (7 W + 7 W) provide decent volume and clarity. The speaker design (angles, front + back speaker layout) is optimized to mimic how sound would reflect from a real piano’s lid or soundboard, especially useful if you place it near a wall. It includes “Wall EQ” to adjust for positioning effects, “Intelligent Acoustic Control (IAC)” to make the sound clear even at low volumes, and a “Sound Boost” feature for when you want more presence.

Portability & design

It is relatively lightweight for a fully weighted 88-key digital piano — ~ 11.5 kg. That makes it manageable to move for practice, gigs, or lessons. Slimmer profile / compact body (depth and height) so it takes up less space in a room, easier to fit into smaller settings.

Modern usability and learning features

• It works with Yamaha’s Smart Pianist app, enabling you to control parameters, browse sounds, view scores etc., from your mobile device.
• Comes with built-in classical repertoire via the app: 303 classical sheet music pieces (PDFs) including works from Bayer, Burgmüller, Hanon, Czerny etc. Good for learners.
• Includes 2-track recording, headphone outputs, USB-to-Host etc., which are useful for practice, recording or lesson work.

Value for money

Considering all the above (weighted keys, quality piano sound, reasonable polyphony, decent speakers + portability + learning aids), the P-223 gives a lot of features without jumping to very high prices. Many users seem satisfied for both beginners & intermediate players.

Some limitations / what to watch out for:

To give a balanced view, here are some limitations to be aware of:

• Built-in speakers are good, but not going to compete with a full PA system or dedicated stage monitors in larger live venues. If you’re performing in large spaces, you’ll likely need external amplification.
• While the keyboard action is very good, “compact hammer” actions sometimes don’t feel quite like premium wooden actions (more silent, less mechanical “give” etc.). Some very advanced pianists might prefer even richer key action feel.
• Some features are “nice to have” but require optional accessories (pedal board, stand, etc.), adding cost and weight.
• For heavy layering / very dense pieces with sustain and multiple voices, even 192-note polyphony can be pushed. (Though for most users it’s more than enough.)

Verdict / who this is especially good for:

Putting all that together, the case for the P-223 is particularly strong if you are:

• Learning / practicing, want something that feels real and responds well.

• Need a full-size, weighted keyboard but don’t have space for a big console piano.

• Want something reasonably portable — able to move rooms, maybe take to gigs or lessons.

• Want features that help with growth: good sounds, ability to record, app integration, etc.

• Want a decent instrument without spending at the very top tier.

The other thing to take into consideration is that whilst it’s functionality is far closer to the P-225, it’s price is more towards the P-145 end of the spectrum. Great value, but why not check out the top of the P series range – the P-225

Key Specifications:

Width: 1326mm
Height: 129mm
Depth: 272mm
Weight: 11.5kg

Compare the specs of the P Series Range by clicking here