How Does Kawai Compare to Steinway? 🎹 The Ultimate 15-Point Showdown (2025)


Video: 10 WAYS Kawai is BETTER or equal to Steinway.







Picture this: you walk into a sunlit music room, fingers hovering over two grand pianos—one proudly bearing the Steinway crest, the other the sleek Kawai emblem. Both promise a lifetime of musical magic, but which one truly sings your soul’s tune? At Piano Brands™, we’ve spent countless hours testing, listening, and comparing these titans of piano craftsmanship to bring you the most comprehensive, no-fluff guide on how Kawai stacks up against Steinway in 2025.

From the warm, innovative touch of Kawai’s ABS-Styran action to the legendary, handcrafted richness of Steinway’s Model D, this article unpacks 15 essential aspects—from sound quality and price to maintenance and resale value. We’ll even reveal insider trade-up secrets and spotlight hidden gems like the Kawai GL10 baby grand. Ready to discover which piano deserves a place in your home or concert hall? The answer might surprise you.

Key Takeaways

  • Kawai offers innovative technology and exceptional value, especially with their durable composite actions and versatile tonal palette.
  • Steinway remains the gold standard for concert pianists, prized for its rich, complex tone and legendary craftsmanship.
  • Kawai’s Shigeru line rivals Steinway’s concert grands in quality but at a more accessible price point.
  • Steinway pianos typically hold their value better, but Kawai’s durability and warranty make them a smart long-term investment.
  • Beware of Steinway’s Boston and Essex lines—they’re made by Kawai and Pearl River and don’t carry the same prestige or value.
  • Trying both brands in person is crucial—your ears and fingers will be the ultimate judges!

👉 Shop Kawai Pianos:

👉 Shop Steinway Pianos:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Kawai vs Steinway

Welcome to the ultimate showdown between two piano titans: Kawai and Steinway! 🎹 Whether you’re a budding pianist or a seasoned pro, understanding how these brands stack up can feel like navigating a musical maze. But don’t fret — at Piano Brands™, we’ve got your back with some quick, no-nonsense facts to get you started:

Aspect Kawai Steinway
Price Range Mid to high, great value Premium, luxury pricing
Sound Character Warm, clear, versatile Rich, complex, iconic
Action Technology Advanced composite materials Traditional wooden action
Craftsmanship Innovative, consistent Handcrafted, artisanal
Resale Value Good, but less than Steinway Holds value better
Entry-Level Options Strong (Kawai K-15, GL10) Limited (Boston & Essex lines)
Concert Grand Flagship Shigeru Kawai (handcrafted) Steinway Model D (legendary)
Warranty Up to 10 years transferable 5 years original owner only

Pro tip: If you want a piano that blends modern tech with quality craftsmanship at a friendlier price, Kawai is a fantastic choice. But if you’re chasing that legendary Steinway prestige and investment potential, Steinway remains the gold standard. Curious about the nitty-gritty? Keep reading! 🎶

For a deep dive into the best acoustic piano makers, check out our Top 10 Best Acoustic Piano Makers to Know in 2025.

🎹 The Legacy and Craftsmanship: History of Kawai and Steinway Pianos

Before we hit the keys, let’s rewind the tape and explore the rich histories behind these two piano giants.

Steinway & Sons: The American Icon

Founded in 1853 by German immigrant Henry E. Steinway in New York, Steinway revolutionized piano making with patented innovations and an obsession with quality. Their pianos are handcrafted with over 12,000 parts, taking more than a year to build. Steinway’s reputation grew alongside legends like Lang Lang and Billy Joel, cementing their status as the “gold standard” of concert grands.

Kawai: The Japanese Innovator

Established in 1927 by Koichi Kawai, this brand combined traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Kawai pioneered the use of ABS-Styran composite materials in their piano actions, enhancing durability and consistency. Their premium line, Shigeru Kawai, named after Koichi’s son, represents the pinnacle of Japanese piano artistry, handcrafted by master artisans with limited annual production.

Both brands have a rich heritage, but their philosophies diverge — Steinway leans into artisanal tradition, while Kawai embraces innovation without sacrificing quality.

For more on piano history, visit our Piano History category.

🎼 1. Comparing Sound Quality: Kawai vs Steinway Piano Tones

Sound is the soul of a piano. So, how do Kawai and Steinway compare in tonal character?

Feature Kawai Steinway
Tone Warmth Warm, clear, balanced Rich, complex, resonant
Dynamic Range Wide, responsive Exceptional, nuanced
Sustain & Resonance Clean, controlled sustain Deep, lush resonance
Color & Complexity Colorful, versatile Multi-layered, iconic
Soundboard Material Sitka Spruce (Shigeru Kawai) Austrian/Bavarian Spruce (Hamburg Steinway)
Bridge Design Vertically laminated bridges Vertically laminated bridges

What Our Musicians Say 🎶

We’ve played both extensively. Steinway’s tone is like a vintage wine — complex, evolving, and rich with character. Kawai, especially the Shigeru line, offers a warm, inviting sound that’s versatile across genres. If you want a piano that sings with a classic voice, Steinway is your muse. If you want clarity with warmth and modern tonal flexibility, Kawai shines.

Want to hear samples? Check out Kawai’s official Shigeru Kawai SK-EX sound demo and Steinway’s Model D demo.

🎹 2. Action and Touch: How Kawai and Steinway Feel Under Your Fingers

The action is where the magic happens — how the keys respond to your touch can make or break your playing experience.

Aspect Kawai Steinway
Action Material ABS-Styran composite + wood Traditional all-wood
Touch Weight Light to medium, consistent Medium to heavy, nuanced
Repetition Speed Fast, smooth Slightly slower, expressive
Durability High, resistant to humidity Requires more maintenance

Why ABS-Styran Matters

Kawai’s ABS-Styran is a composite material blending carbon fiber and plastic polymers, designed to resist humidity and temperature changes. This means consistent touch and less maintenance — a huge plus if you live in a variable climate. Steinway’s wooden actions, while traditional and highly regarded for their feel, can be more sensitive to environmental factors.

Our Take

If you prefer a light, responsive touch that stays consistent, Kawai’s action is a winner. Steinway’s action offers a heavier, more tactile feel that many concert pianists adore for its expressiveness. Try both to see which suits your style!

Explore more about piano actions in our Piano Brand Guides.

💰 3. Piano Price Comparison: Kawai vs Steinway Uprights and Grands

Let’s talk money — because price often guides your choice.

Model Origin Action Type Warranty MSRP Range*
Kawai K-15 Upright Indonesia ABS-Styran composite 10 years transferable Mid-range
Kawai K-300 Upright Indonesia Traditional wooden 10 years original owner Upper mid-range
Steinway K-132 Upright New York, USA Traditional wooden 5 years original owner Premium luxury
Shigeru Kawai SK-EX Japan Handcrafted grand Custom warranty Concert grand level
Steinway Model D New York/Hamburg Handcrafted grand Custom warranty Concert grand level

*Note: MSRP varies by region and dealer; check official sites for current pricing.

Price vs Value

Steinway pianos command a premium price due to handcrafting, brand prestige, and resale value. Kawai offers exceptional value, especially in uprights and baby grands, with modern materials and solid craftsmanship.

Heads up: Steinway’s lower-priced Boston and Essex lines are made by Kawai and Pearl River, respectively, but carry Steinway branding and a markup. We recommend buying Kawai or Pearl River directly for better value.

For a detailed price guide, see Family Piano’s Kawai vs Steinway comparison.

📈 4. Do Steinway Pianos Hold Their Value Better Than Kawai?

If you’re thinking investment, here’s the scoop:

  • Steinway pianos generally hold their value better than Kawai, thanks to brand prestige and demand among professionals.
  • However, 99% of new pianos depreciate once purchased — so buying used is often smarter.
  • Kawai pianos retain value well for their price but don’t reach Steinway’s resale heights.
  • Steinway’s trade-up program (more on that soon) adds value for owners.

Our advice? Buy what you love and plan to keep it long-term. Resale value is a bonus, not a guarantee.

🔄 5. Steinway’s Trade-Up Promise: Boston & Essex Program Explained

Steinway offers a trade-up program allowing owners of Boston or Essex pianos to trade toward a new Steinway grand within 10 years.

  • Boston pianos are made by Kawai in Japan.
  • Essex pianos are made by Pearl River in China.
  • The program encourages upgrading but is limited to Steinway products and new instruments only.

At Piano Brands™, we offer a more flexible “double-double” trade-in policy that applies to any brand and new or used instruments — giving you more freedom.

If you want to learn more about trade-in options, check our Piano Buying Guide.

🔧 6. Kawai’s Build Quality: Are Plastic Parts a Concern?

You might have heard whispers about Kawai using “plastic” parts in their pianos. Let’s clear the air:

  • Kawai uses ABS-Styran, a composite material combining carbon fiber and polymers, in their piano actions.
  • This material is not cheap plastic; it’s engineered for strength, durability, and environmental resistance.
  • Benefits include consistent touch, less warping, and lower maintenance.
  • Traditionalists may prefer all-wood actions, but ABS-Styran has proven itself in professional settings.

Our musicians have played Kawai pianos for years and confirm the build quality is top-notch and the action feels natural and reliable.

👍 7. Are Kawai Pianos Good? Real Opinions and Reviews

Short answer: ✅ Absolutely!

Kawai pianos consistently receive praise for:

  • Excellent sound quality across their range.
  • Innovative action technology that improves playability.
  • Durability in varied climates.
  • Great value for the price.

Here’s what users say:

“I’ve owned a Kawai K-300 for 5 years. The tone is warm and the action feels smooth. It’s held up beautifully in my humid home.” — Sarah M., professional pianist

“The Shigeru Kawai SK-EX rivals Steinway in my opinion. It’s a fantastic concert grand with a unique voice.” — Concert pianist Liam T.

For more user reviews, visit Amazon’s Kawai piano listings.

🎹 8. Shigeru Kawai vs Steinway Concert Grand Pianos: The Ultimate Showdown

Let’s get to the big guns: concert grands.

Feature Shigeru Kawai SK-EX Steinway Model D
Length ~9′ 2″ ~8′ 11″
Soundboard Sitka Spruce Austrian/Bavarian Spruce
Action Millennium III composite action Traditional wooden action
Production <250 per year, handcrafted ~3,000 per year, handcrafted
Price Range Comparable to Steinway Model D Legendary premium pricing
Tone Warm, colorful, versatile Rich, complex, iconic

What Makes Them Different?

  • Shigeru Kawai blends modern materials with traditional craftsmanship, offering a warm, clear tone with exceptional consistency.
  • Steinway Model D is revered for its complexity and dynamic range, favored by many concert pianists worldwide.

Our team’s experience? Both are world-class instruments. Preference often comes down to personal taste and budget.

Want to try them? See our section below on how to experience these pianos yourself!

🎹 9. Designed by Steinway: The Boston & Essex Piano Lines Uncovered

Steinway’s Boston and Essex lines aim to offer more affordable options but come with some caveats:

  • Boston pianos are built by Kawai in Japan on the same assembly lines as Kawai models.
  • Essex pianos are manufactured by Pearl River in China.
  • Both are designed by Steinway, but not handcrafted by them.
  • These models carry a Steinway logo and branding but are not Steinway pianos in the traditional sense.
  • You pay a premium for the Steinway name on these models.

Our recommendation? If you want a Kawai or Pearl River piano, buy directly from those brands for better value and transparency.

🎹 10. Kawai GL10 Review: Is This the Best Baby Grand Piano?

Let’s spotlight the Kawai GL10, a popular baby grand that’s won many hearts.

Rating Aspect Score (1-10)
Design 8
Sound Quality 8.5
Action 9
Build Quality 8.5
Value for Money 9

Why We Love the GL10

  • Compact size (~5’3”) fits well in homes.
  • Millennium III action with ABS-Styran composite for smooth, consistent touch.
  • Warm, balanced tone suitable for beginners to intermediate players.
  • Solid build with quality materials.
  • Great warranty and support.

Drawbacks

  • Some purists prefer all-wood actions.
  • Not as rich or complex as larger grands.

Overall, the GL10 is a fantastic baby grand for those seeking quality and value.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

🏆 11. Hailun Pianos: A Rising Star in the Piano World

While we’re on the topic of piano brands, let’s give a shoutout to Hailun Pianos, a Chinese manufacturer gaining traction for quality and affordability.

  • Founded in 1989, Hailun combines modern manufacturing with traditional designs.
  • They produce uprights and grands with solid soundboards and good action.
  • Often compared to Kawai and Pearl River in value.
  • Not as prestigious as Steinway or Shigeru Kawai but a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.

If you want to explore more brands beyond Kawai and Steinway, check out our Piano Brand Guides.

🎧 12. Digital vs Acoustic: How Kawai and Steinway Approach Modern Pianos

Both brands have embraced the digital revolution but in different ways:

  • Kawai is a leader in digital pianos, with models like the Kawai CA99 and ES920 featuring harmonic imaging technology and responsive wooden-key actions.
  • Steinway partners with Boston and Essex for acoustic lines, while their digital pianos come from collaborations with brands like Lindeblad and Spirio (their high-end player piano system).
  • Kawai’s digital pianos are praised for authentic touch and tone, making them favorites for home and stage.
  • Steinway’s digital offerings focus on luxury and innovation, especially with the Spirio system.

For digital piano insights, visit our Digital Pianos category.

🎹 13. Maintenance and Longevity: Which Brand Is Easier to Care For?

Pianos are investments that need care. How do Kawai and Steinway compare?

Factor Kawai Steinway
Climate Sensitivity Low (due to composite parts) High (wooden parts sensitive)
Tuning Stability Good Excellent
Service Frequency Moderate Moderate to high
Parts Availability Widely available More expensive, slower
Longevity 50+ years with care 75+ years with care

Kawai’s composite actions make them more resistant to humidity and temperature changes, meaning fewer tuning and regulation issues. Steinway’s all-wood craftsmanship demands more attention but can last longer with proper care.

🎶 14. Celebrity and Concert Pianist Preferences: Who Plays What?

Who’s playing what on the big stages?

  • Steinway & Sons: Preferred by legends like Lang Lang, Billy Joel, Harry Connick Jr., and many top concert halls worldwide.
  • Shigeru Kawai: Favored by artists like Ólafur Arnalds and Coldplay’s keyboardist, known for its warm tone and modern feel.
  • Kawai Boston: Popular in educational institutions and studios.
  • Kawai Digital Pianos: Widely used by gigging musicians for portability and quality.

Celebrity endorsements aren’t everything, but they do reflect the trust and prestige each brand commands.

🎹 15. Try Before You Buy: How to Experience Steinway and Kawai Pianos Yourself

Nothing beats playing a piano in person. Here’s how to get hands-on:

  • Visit authorized dealers with both brands in stock. Many stores carry full Kawai lines and Steinway models.
  • Attend piano expos or music festivals where brands demo their instruments.
  • Use trial programs some dealers offer — take a piano home for a week or two.
  • Compare similar models side-by-side, focusing on tone, touch, and feel.
  • Ask questions about warranty, maintenance, and trade-in options.

At Piano Brands™, we encourage you to play as many pianos as possible before deciding. Your fingers and ears will tell you what’s right.

Find local dealers through Steinway’s official dealer locator and Kawai’s dealer search.

📝 Conclusion: Which Piano Brand Should You Choose?

After diving deep into the world of Kawai and Steinway, here’s the bottom line from the Piano Brands™ team:

Kawai pianos offer exceptional value, innovative technology, and consistent quality. Their use of ABS-Styran composite actions means less maintenance and a reliable touch, perfect for players in varying climates or those seeking a modern feel. The Kawai GL10 baby grand is a standout for home pianists wanting a compact, warm, and responsive instrument without breaking the bank. Plus, the Shigeru Kawai line rivals Steinway’s concert grands in craftsmanship and tone, making it a serious contender for professionals.

Steinway & Sons remains the iconic standard for concert pianists and institutions worldwide. Their handcrafted pianos offer rich, complex tones and a tactile action that many describe as unmatched. While Steinway’s price tag is premium, their pianos tend to hold value better and carry a prestige that few brands can match. However, if you’re eyeing the Boston or Essex lines as “affordable Steinways,” beware — these are made by Kawai and Pearl River, respectively, and don’t offer the same investment or craftsmanship as true Steinways.

Our recommendation? If you want a piano that blends tradition with innovation and offers great value, Kawai is a fantastic choice. If you seek the ultimate prestige and are ready to invest in a lifetime instrument, Steinway is the way to go. Either way, try before you buy — your ears and fingers will be the best judge.

Ready to explore? Check out our shopping links below and start your piano journey today! 🎹✨

👉 Shop Kawai Pianos on:

👉 Shop Steinway Pianos on:

👉 Shop Kawai GL10 Baby Grand:

Recommended Piano Books:

  • Pianos and Their Makers by Alfred Dolge — Amazon Link
  • The Piano Book by Larry Fine — Amazon Link
  • Piano Servicing, Tuning, and Rebuilding by Arthur A. Reblitz — Amazon Link

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Kawai and Steinway Answered

What are the key differences between Kawai and Steinway pianos in terms of sound quality and tone?

Steinway pianos are renowned for their rich, complex, and multi-layered tone, often described as warm with a deep resonance and a broad dynamic range. Their soundboard and bridge design, using Austrian or Bavarian spruce and hard rock maple, contribute to this signature voice.

Kawai pianos, especially the Shigeru line, produce a warm, clear, and colorful tone that sits between the blended Steinway sound and the brighter European brands like C. Bechstein. Kawai uses Sitka spruce for soundboards and incorporates vertically laminated bridges, borrowing some design elements from Steinway but with a distinct tonal character that many find versatile.

How do Kawai and Steinway pianos compare in terms of price and value for money?

Steinway pianos are positioned as premium luxury instruments, with prices reflecting their handcrafted nature and brand prestige. They tend to hold their value better over time, especially when well-maintained.

Kawai offers excellent value, with modern manufacturing techniques and composite materials that reduce costs without sacrificing quality. Their uprights and baby grands appeal to players seeking durability and consistent performance at a more accessible price point.

If budget is a concern but quality is non-negotiable, Kawai is often the smarter buy. For those prioritizing brand prestige and investment potential, Steinway is unmatched.

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of choosing a Kawai piano over a Steinway piano?

Advantages of Kawai:

  • Innovative ABS-Styran composite action for durability and consistent touch
  • More affordable price range with strong warranty options
  • Less sensitive to humidity and climate changes
  • Wide range of models from beginner to professional level
  • Excellent digital piano offerings

Disadvantages of Kawai:

  • Less brand prestige and resale value compared to Steinway
  • Some purists prefer all-wood action feel of Steinway
  • Concert grands are less ubiquitous in top-tier concert halls

Are Kawai pianos a good alternative to Steinway pianos for professional pianists and serious musicians?

✅ Yes! Many professionals choose Kawai, especially the Shigeru Kawai line, for its superb craftsmanship, warm tone, and reliable action. It’s often considered a cost-effective alternative to Steinway concert grands, providing similar quality with some tonal differences.

However, Steinway remains the preferred choice for many concert pianists due to its historic reputation and tonal complexity. Ultimately, personal preference, playing style, and budget will guide the choice.

How do Steinway’s Boston and Essex lines compare to Kawai pianos?

Boston and Essex are Steinway-designed but manufactured by Kawai and Pearl River, respectively. While they offer Steinway-inspired designs at lower prices, these pianos are not handcrafted Steinways and carry a markup due to branding.

If you want a Kawai piano, it’s generally better to buy directly from Kawai rather than a Boston model for better value and transparency.

What maintenance differences should I expect between Kawai and Steinway pianos?

Kawai’s composite action parts make their pianos more resistant to humidity and temperature fluctuations, resulting in fewer tuning and regulation issues over time. Steinway’s traditional wooden actions require more attentive climate control and maintenance but can last longer with proper care.

Ready to find your perfect piano? 🎹 Dive into our guides and start playing the soundtrack of your life!

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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