June 4, 2025
About the Author: Arwen
Imagine this: you’re a pianist living in a small London flat, with thin walls separating you from your neighbour, and you can only practise at night due to work and other obligations— except you are probably already living in this reality!
According to plumplot.co.uk, the average flat size in London is under 55 square meters. That is not even 4 full rooms!
For many pianists living in London, it is impractical to own an acoustic piano with the little space they already might have.
There are other solutions to this problem–one could hire a piano, or book a music room with a piano inside to practise.
Yet in the long run, it can be highly demotivating due to the inconvenience thereof.
It can also become quite costly if you want to make it a regular type of thing.
This beckons the question: would it be better to switch to a digital piano?
Let’s explore the effects of having an acoustic or digital piano in a London apartment.
Problems with Acoustic Pianos in London
Size and Weight
Acoustic pianos can take up a surprising amount of space—even upright models, which are often thought of as compact.
In a typical London flat, where every square metre counts, sacrificing a significant portion of your living area to accommodate a large and heavy instrument may not be the most practical choice.
Of course, there are those dedicated pianists who are more than happy to give up space for the love of their instrument. But this isn’t aimed at them.
I’m talking about people—whether individuals, couples, or families—who want to enjoy the richness of piano playing without having to compromise too heavily on comfort or functionality in their homes.
Noise Restrictions
Always trying to control the volume of an acoustic piano is not easy or enjoyable.
A pianist would want to be able to freely express themselves without being a nuisance–I know I sure would!
The last thing your neighbours want is to return home from a long day of work only to be greeted with the screeching sound of false melodies.
An acoustic piano might send you more than noise complaint letters.
Cost of Maintenance
Acoustic pianos need to be tuned at least once a year to ensure their pitch and overall condition is maintained.
A standard piano tuning typically costs between £80 and £120. Of course, that is for only basic tuning.
Additional services like regulations, pitch raises or other servicing will increase the price.
I believe that if you have the funds and love for the piano, go for it!
Although, if you find the cost of maintenance is not worth what you are able to get out of it, you might want to consider getting a digital piano.
Mobility and Moving
It can be quite expensive to get pianos from place of purchase to a small London flat, risking potential damages like scratches and dents.
Even worse, the piano might look fair, but could have taken on a few hits and bumps—damaging the internal components.
It can also become quite a nuisance if needed to move around the apartment often.
Luckily you need not worry about your piano falling through a properly built apartment floor, but you do need to concern yourself with preparation for moving the instrument into your apartment.
Why Digital Pianos Are Better for London Homes
Compact Design
One of the biggest advantages of digital pianos is their compact and lightweight design.
Many models are built to be portable, making it easy to move them from room to room—or even store them away when not in use.
Unlike traditional acoustic pianos, which can dominate a space, digital pianos require significantly less room and are far more adaptable to smaller living areas.
If you’re someone for whom space is of importance—as is often the case in London apartments—a digital piano offers a practical, space-saving solution without compromising on the joy of playing.
Volume Control
Digital pianos have come a long way since they were first introduced, and one of the most exciting features thereof is being able to control the volume!
Being able to play during any time of day without needing to play softly is a different kind of liberation for pianists.
Your neighbours will definitely thank you for this one!
Low Maintenance
Unlike acoustic pianos, digital pianos need not be tuned once a year.
Instead, most maintenance can be done through wiping down keys with a soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
Steinway & Sons advises to service digital pianos once after the first year of use, then at least once every 3 to 5 years.
Obviously some might require more attention, but for the majority of digital pianos you most probably do not need to service it like an acoustic piano.
Affordability
It is no secret that digital pianos are praised for their affordability.
Acoustic pianos start at around the £3000 mark, which can still be quite expensive for some people.
Whereas the price for an entry level digital piano starts at just 150 pounds!
Obviously putting the quality aside, the price difference is monumental.
Technological Features
The title speaks for itself.
Digital pianos offer a bunch of different functions and features that acoustic pianos do not have.
Imagine being able to play the organ, harp, and even strings—all on one instrument!
I personally love tampering with a digital piano’s technological options, because when I get tired of one sound, I can easily switch to a different one!
Conclusion
Imagine this: you are living in a small London flat, thin walls and limited space.
Previously you had to compromise comfort for limited piano play time.
Now, you can practise wherever you want, when you want, and without settling for less space.
In a city where space is gold and quiet neighbours are in demand, a digital piano is not only a want but a need!
