Alesis Recital - 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard vs Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console
Updated August 2026 — Alesis Recital - 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard wins on portability and value, Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console wins on weight and keys.
The Alesis Recital is a great budget option for beginners, while the Casio Privia PX-870 offers superior sound and features for serious players.
Why Alesis Recital - 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard is better
Price
Alesis Recital is significantly cheaper at $259.99.
Portability
Alesis can be powered by batteries for on-the-go use.
Educational Features
Alesis includes a 3-month subscription to Skoove for lessons.
Why Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console is better
Sound Quality
Casio has a more powerful 40W sound system.
Key Action
Casio features weighted Tri-Sensor II keys for authentic feel.
Connectivity
Casio offers USB-MIDI for easy integration with devices.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Alesis Recital - 88 Key Digital Piano Keyboard | Casio Privia PX-870 – 88-Key Weighted Console |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $259.99 | $999.00 |
| Speakers | 2x20W | 40W 4-Speaker |
| Voices | 5 | 60 |
| Key Type | Semi-Weighted | Weighted |
| Lesson Mode | Yes | Yes |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Alesis Recital and Casio Privia PX-870
The Alesis Recital is available for $259.99, making it about 74% cheaper than the Casio Privia PX-870, which is priced at $999.00. This significant price difference reflects the varying features and target audiences for each digital piano. The Alesis Recital is designed for beginners and those who want a versatile keyboard for practice, while the Casio Privia PX-870 targets more serious pianists looking for a realistic piano experience.
Key Features Comparison
The Alesis Recital boasts 88 semi-weighted keys with adjustable touch response, while the Casio Privia PX-870 features 88 weighted Tri-Sensor II Scaled Hammer Action keys. This difference is crucial for players who prioritize authentic piano feel. The Alesis offers five voices, including Acoustic Piano and Electric Piano, and built-in effects like Chorus and Reverb. In contrast, the Casio provides a more immersive grand piano sound through its AiR Sound Source and advanced resonance features, making it ideal for more advanced performances.
Sound Quality
Sound quality is a defining aspect of any digital piano. The Alesis Recital comes with dual 20W speakers that deliver room-filling sound, which is suitable for practice sessions. However, the Casio Privia PX-870 surpasses this with a powerful 40W four-speaker sound system, designed to fill larger spaces with rich, immersive sound. The Casio also includes advanced sound features like damper and string resonance, which enhance the overall listening experience, making it a better choice for performance settings.
Educational Features
Both the Alesis Recital and Casio Privia PX-870 include features designed to facilitate learning. The Alesis offers a Lesson Mode that divides the keyboard into two zones, ideal for student-teacher interaction. It also comes with a three-month premium subscription to Skoove, providing interactive online piano lessons. On the other hand, the Casio enhances the learning experience with features like Duet Mode, dual headphone jacks, and 60 built-in songs for practice. These features make the Casio a more comprehensive tool for serious students.
Design and Portability
In terms of design, the Alesis Recital is a portable option that can be powered by either an adapter or six D cell batteries, making it convenient for musicians on the go. Its feature-packed design prioritizes functionality and versatility. The Casio Privia PX-870, however, boasts a sleek and modern console design, complete with a sliding key cover. While it may not be as portable due to its size and weight, its elegant aesthetics make it a stunning addition to any home or studio.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options can greatly enhance a musician's experience. The Alesis Recital provides standard connections, including a 1/4" sustain pedal input and stereo RCA outputs for connecting to external speakers. In contrast, the Casio Privia offers USB-MIDI connectivity, allowing for easy plug-and-play with various devices, including Mac, PC, iOS, or Android. This modern connectivity makes the Casio more versatile for digital musicians looking to integrate their piano with other technology.
User Experience and Community
The user experience can vary significantly between the two products. The Alesis Recital is ranked 2816 in sales, indicating a solid following among beginners who appreciate its educational features and versatility. Conversely, the Casio Privia PX-870, ranked at 14122, may not be as popular but is renowned for its realistic piano feel and sound, appealing to more serious pianists. This suggests that while both pianos have their strengths, they cater to different segments of the market.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the choice between the Alesis Recital and Casio Privia PX-870 largely depends on your playing level and needs. If you're a beginner or a casual player looking for an affordable option with solid educational features, the Alesis Recital at $259.99 is a fantastic choice. However, if you're a serious pianist seeking a high-quality instrument that offers an authentic piano experience and superior sound, the Casio Privia PX-870, despite its higher price of $999.00, may be the better investment. Each piano has unique strengths, making the final decision dependent on personal preference and intended use.