Comparison
Kawai ES520 vs Kawai ES120
Start with availability: the ES520 is covered here as an older model with limited U.S. stock, while the ES120 is a current alternative. The ES520 offers a display, RHC II action, 20 W per channel and an included half-damper pedal. The ES120 has a smaller body and lower weight, with a different RHC action and 10 W per channel. Both support Bluetooth audio/MIDI and dedicated line outputs; neither provides USB computer audio. A larger speaker rating does not establish better sound in your room. Compare the same quiet passage, then make a routine settings change on each. For an ES520 offer, include condition, accessories and return terms in the comparison; do not compare a sold-out listing with an available new instrument.
Open this pair in the interactive comparison
| Feature | ES520 | ES120 |
|---|---|---|
| Price reference | Legacy model — current remaining-stock and used prices vary. Instrument only; finish, tax, accessories, delivery and assembly may affect the total. | USD 849.00 historical promotion (ended 2026-09-30; checked 2026-09-25). Current price unavailable; excluded from budget matching. Instrument only; finish, tax, accessories, delivery and assembly may affect the total. |
| Best-fit buyer | Home players who want a screen and direct controls without an arranger workflow; Buyers considering a well-kept used or confirmed remaining-stock ES520; Players who like Kawai’s piano sounds and want speakers plus dedicated line outputs | Home players and gigging musicians who need a lighter portable piano; Players who value Bluetooth, line outputs and two headphone connections |
| Keyboard action | Responsive Hammer Compact II (RHC II) | Responsive Hammer Compact |
| Key construction | Not verified | Not verified |
| Key surface | Smooth matte black and white keys | Matte key surfaces |
| Escapement / let-off | Not verified | Not verified |
| Maximum polyphony | 192 | 192 |
| Piano sound technology | Progressive Harmonic Imaging (PHI) | Harmonic Imaging; SK-EX and EX samples |
| Speakers | 8 x 12 cm x 2 | 12 cm x 2 |
| Amplification | 20 W x 2 | 10 W x 2 |
| Pedals | F-10H included; GFP-3 / F-302 optional | F-1SP included; F-10H/GFP-3/F-351 compatible |
| Bluetooth audio | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth MIDI | Yes | Yes |
| USB audio interface | No | No |
| USB MIDI | Yes | Yes |
| Line outputs | Yes | Yes |
| Headphones | One 6.35 mm and one 3.5 mm stereo socket | 1/4 inch and 1/8 inch |
| Dimensions (mm) | 1340 W x 375 D x 145 H | 1305 W x 280 D x 150 H (music rest detached) |
| Weight (kg) | 14.5 | 12 |
| Apps | PianoRemote | PianoRemote, PiaBookPlayer |
| Warranty | Not verified | Not verified |