Casiotone CT-S1 vs. Yamaha PSR-E373

Casiotone CT-S1 vs. Yamaha PSR-E373: These are both fabulous keyboards, but which one is the best super portable option for a piano player? I compare the key action, voices, user interface and other features to help you decide. There are links below to those sections if you want to skip to any of them directly.
I've included some affiliate links if you would like to check out current prices and availability on the Yamaha PSR-E373 or the Casiotone CT-S1, and I also have some links to some online piano training I recommend, and to my first original song on piano, "Walk With You"
My Full Reviews On These Keyboards:
Casiotone CT-S1: • Casiotone CT-S1 Review
Yamaha PSR-E373: • Yamaha PSR E373 Review
Check Current Prices On Amazon:
Casiotone CT-S1: geni.us/KgkyVaN (Amazon)
Yamaha PSR-E373: geni.us/VPQi3a (Amazon)
If you enjoy this video and want to help support my channel, feel free to buy me a coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/pianoton...
Jump To A Topic:
Introduction: 0:00
Key Action: 1:24
Voices: 2:20
Voice Samples: 4:05 (includes layering issue on CT-S1 at 10:41)
Effects: 16:13
Registrations: 17:13
User Interface: 17:58
Connectivity: 24:41
Apps: 27:02
Speakers: 27:58
Speaker Demo: 28:38
Portability: 29:21
The Verdict: 29:56
Online Piano Training I Recommend:
Online Rock Lessons: onlinerocklessons.com - USE COUPON CODE "PIANOTONE" if you choose to sign up for the yearly subscription: this will let the instructor know I referred you, and she will include a free 20 minute orientation call with you!
Piano Man Approach: geni.us/PianoManApproach
Birds Piano Academy: geni.us/BirdsPianoAcademy
Birds Piano Academy Blues Level 1: geni.us/BirdsBluesLevel1
Birds Piano Academy Blues Level 2: geni.us/BirdsBluesLevel2
PianoForAll: geni.us/PianoForAll
My Original Song "Walk With You"
Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/64FxwB...
Apple Music: / walk-with-you-single
Thanks a bunch for stopping by the channel, please subscribe (really helps me out!) and happy piano playing, recording & shopping!
Please note that this description contains affiliate links which I may earn commissions from on qualifying purchases.

[@mrwailingguitar]

It's very apparent that a lot of thought, planning, and effort went into this video - thank you sir! Made my choice MUCH more informed and easy.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad you found the video useful! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@toni2606]

This was by far the most helpful and in depth look at these two keyboards, and I have watched many for both. I have the CT-S1 and just ordered the PSR-EW310. I'm a beginner and will save this to playlist to revisit as I learn. Thank you so much for your great attention to details! 🙂

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad you liked the video! And congrats on the 310 that's gonna be a nice combination to have (you'll like the 76 keys!) Hope it arrives soon. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@hadeerabu-elezz6382]

I watched many videos comparing these two .. your video is by far more informative,indepth, straight to the point .. thank you so much for this ❤️ I was leaning towards the CT s1 but was kinda distracted by the many features of the PSR E373 which I actually don't need bc I'm only interested in piano sounds and piano like key actions.. so I think I'm settled to the CT s1.. thanks again for helping me out ❤️

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much, glad you found the review useful! Thanks again for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@naturelovervinodbaret7189]

Your comment is helped me to decide piano and now I'm going to buy CT s1 piano bcz I'm only Piano Lover...

[@PianoTone]

@@naturelovervinodbaret7189 Thanks so much glad you enjoyed the review! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@adamyohan]

Fantastic video. Clean and straight to the point.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much! And thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@Seth6000]

Thank you for the review and comparison

[@PianoTone]

Thanks a bunch, glad you enjoyed the review!

[@vmjacob123]

Fantastic review . Thanks a lot for your efforts.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@tommsfx]

omg just what i need ,thank you

[@PianoTone]

Thanks glad you liked the review-feel free to subscribe

[@HamidShibataBennett]

Another great review Tony. I love my Casio CT-S1. One note… the Casio SC-650 bag is really great for portability and worth the price. I paid $108 for mine off reverb.. .I see them go typically for $120. Yes, it’s a $220 keyboard, but this gig bag is really fantastic..

[@PianoTone]

Thanks Hamid! And thanks for the input on the SC-650 that's super good to know! No stores where I am stock it, so I haven't been able to actually see one.

[@dannuttle9005]

I upgraded from the E373 to the E473. Better recording, expression knobs for DSPs, some other features that I really like.

[@PianoTone]

Congrats that's an awesome keyboard (I have the EW-425 the 76 key version). Make sure you check out my channel, I've done a pile of videos on the 473/425 both reviews and some how-to's (mic input, different ways to record etc). Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@Isabella-yg9wf]

Nice video! Thank u

[@PianoTone]

Thanks so much glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@warrenf6935]

Thanks for the comparison. I've just started learning piano and have been at it for a few months. Since I don't feel like quitting (yet) I think it's safe to invest in a second keyboard. My main keyboard is a used Yamaha P-125; all the videos I watched recommended weighted key action. And now I'm looking for a portable (61 keys), weighted key action (or as close as I can get) keyboard. I'd be using it 90% of the time for exercises (Hanon) and would like to be able to practice away from home. The CT-S1 seems like what I'm looking for; unless you have another suggestion.

[@PianoTone]

The P125 is a fantastic piano I had one for a year - I don’t know of any fully weighted 61 key keyboards. The CT-S1 almost feels semi weighted but it won’t feel as heavy as your 125. For 61 keys though I would recommend either the CT-S1 or an Alesis Recital 61 (the alesis is semi weighted but the Casio sounds are far better). I do have a full review on the CT-S1 and the 88 key version of the recital on my channel if you want to check those out Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe.

[@alexanderwilliams1731]

Piano sounds both sound great!!!!

[@PianoTone]

They are both pretty amazing for the price! Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@Notoldfart]

I am a rank, adult, beginner and still searching for a good fit in a Digital. Your reviews are very informative and preferred over all others I have watched. The CT-S1 key feel is what I zeroed in on but would like more specifics regarding voices, like what they all are. I am assuming the voices may motivate me to practice more. My wife, playing our Yamaha acoustic, says she seldom goes out of a four active range and then usually to the lower notes. That is my may reason for considering a 61 key over a 76. So, if there is a link that lists the voices would like to know. Also, if you might recommend a Casio that is a step up from the CT-S1 I that too would like to know, Price is not the limiting factor. And again, thanks for taking the time to do such great reviews.

[@PianoTone]

My full review on the CT-S1 demos more of the voices: kzbin.info/www/bejne/famkc3h7ls2ta7M and here is a list of all the voices: pianotone.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/CTS1-Voices.png The next Casio up from there would be the CT-S400 (same basic keyboard but with way more voices and arranger features, drums etc) - then the CT-S500 (also the same basic keyboard but with more voices and arranger features but also has L/R line outs and some live control knobs). Then you'd be looking at the digital pianos like the PX-S1100 which I owned for awhile. Did a review here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f3SxoZ18ltmooZI Thanks again for the kind words!

[@Notoldfart]

@@PianoTone I did more reading and have decided the S400 will satisfy. I doubt if I could benefit from the S500 additional features at the stage I am in at this time. And I am tired of looking and want to move on.

[@michellemonet4358]

Thanks for this helpful. I own a casio ct s1 and a roland gopiano. I returned my casio and now I have P373 on the way. 😂 Haha. You can tell I like keyboards..eh? I like to have a portable keyboard to compose songs outside in the park etc.

[@PianoTone]

Lol I have the same issue with keyboards ;). Enjoy your 373!

[@michellemonet4358]

@@PianoTone If Jay Leno can collect cars then...

[@ashutoshtripathi4192]

Helpful video. 1 Question - Casio keyboards in this price range have the infamous key noises (kind of click cluck ). It comes over time. Did you notice it with CT-S1?

[@PianoTone]

No the CT-S1 is a very silent key action (I think its very cushioned to try and mimic semi-weighted). If you do a glissando though the keys smack against each other quite loudly)

[@Maluband]

Great comparison for the two keyboards I am looking at in this price bracket. Would love to know some recommend apps for drum backing as that's what I use the styles for on my Yamaha F51 instead of a metronome, which I am looking to upgrade and these two look like the next step up. Also considering the step beyond with the CT-S500 and E473. Have a like and subscribe too!

[@PianoTone]

Thanks a bunch, glad you enjoyed the comparison! For keyboards that don't have rhythms, for practice I use "DrumBeats" on my iPad (it's the one by "Ninebuzz" - there are others with similar names). They hope that you buy extra "beats" from them which you can, I never have, just use it for practicing; it's simple to use. If you're considering the next level of keyboards, I have a PSR-EW425 (76 key version of the PSR-E473); lots of videos on it, but the main review is here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q3WxYaiDo8iojcU Haven't actually seen a CT-S500 in person yet; same action as the CT-S1, has rhythms and a screen and line outs - I did actually notice (checked the manual yesterday actually) that the 500 also cannot adjust the volume of the line in if that matters to you (it's an issue with the CT-S1 - the line in volume is too low relative to the keyboard volume, and if you up the line in device's volume to match it often distorts - frustrating). Hope that helps!

[@saithesurfer4204]

Thank you for in-depth comparison ! I am just starting out to learn music theory and piano and haven't even touched a piano or keyboard till now. Actually, I am in doubt that will i need all the bells and whistles such as Arpeggiators or Accompaniments or layering etc,. offered by Yamaha in my journey? My end goal is to play some bit of J-pop or K-pop music and sing-along.

[@PianoTone]

Hi there! Yes all the bells and whistles can be distracting! The drums on the E373 can be useful when getting started to keep you in time (WAY more fun than a metronome), but there are lots of free drum apps out there (like DrumBeats by NineBuzz) that you can use with the CT-S1 for rhythms to practice with. I also have lots of reviews for online piano training if you want to check those out: kzbin.info/aero/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@saithesurfer4204]

​@@PianoTone Thank you very much for information. Once again, it's awesome that you are going all out to provide more detailed information in your videos. I have subscribed and watched most of the reviews and . One last query, actually CT-S1 is 20% more expensive than E-373 in my country, do you think it's build and sound quality justifies it?

[@mac.fk14]

Which one would be better for playing classical piano pieces as currently those are my only focus and i don't mind the extras Yamaha offers

[@PianoTone]

The action on the CTS1 would be better for that but both only have 61 keys if that’s an issue for you. Check out the Korg Liano as well! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@rizaiese]

Very intersting how to work sustain pedal on dual sound, never noticed ,on Yamaha is perfect. no way to disable in Casio I think.

[@PianoTone]

Yamahas have always down that well. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@user-jc8ek4yj3t]

Can you please give me your suggestion… my son is 5, loves music and it’s been asking me for learning piano and guita 😳but private lessons are a fortune and I do not know anything about music… after seeing your video I am thinking in get him the Casio CT-s1… do you suggest any app/program for him? He is 5, loves music, started playing drums at 2year old just playing with dad, picks up lyrics and rhythm really quick but gets bored really fast and I don’t want ever to be the cause of him to loose his passion for music… what do you suggest?

[@PianoTone]

Out of the apps I have tried I think Simply Piano is the most fun and engaging, you might try that one. These are both great keyboards, but keep in mind that the CT-S1 doesn't have any drums or accompaniment to play along with but the PSR-E373 does (not sure if he would like that or not). Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe.

[@PerpetualRat]

Hey! Beginner here wondering which would be more user friendly and last me longer. Currently have the chance to buy the CT-S1 for only $180 but I don't know if I should bite the bullet or if I should spend an extra $20 for the P373.

[@PianoTone]

To be honest either is a good choice; you might find the Yamaha more user friendly with the screen, and the rhythms can be more fun than a metronome for practice and learning; if you’re someone who might feel “overwhelmed” with a screen and menu with tons of options etc then you might prefer the simpler button driven Casio. The Casio doesn’t have rhythms or accompaniment. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@zahidhasan265]

Hello, I have absolutely no experience with musical instruments. But I often listen to classical piano pieces which created the desire to play piano. I can only afford anything around 200$. I'm not very interested in sounds other than the piano which makes CT-S1 perfect choice. However I'll be learning by myself since PSR-E373 has the feature of app assistance for learning, I'm confused between PSR-E373 and CT-S1. Which one do you think I should go for?

[@PianoTone]

Hi there! Either one would be a good choice; I personally prefer the CT-S1 because the key action is a bit heavier (it is easier to control your dynamics - how hard and soft you play). As far as the learning features on the 373 I honestly don't know much about them so not fair for me to say. I learned piano from online courses - I have reviews on many of them here: kzbin.info/aero/PL_W0EMCT9oNb7OQ7TiB0WHZv7K4k1bScA The least expensive ones in my reviews would be Birds Piano Academy and Pianoforall, then the Piano Man Approach - Piano in 21 Days is the most expensive. Hope that helps! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@zahidhasan265]

@@PianoTone I've already subscribed with notification. Hopefully your videos reach more people to help them.

[@Reckless_one]

which one sounds more like grand acoustic piano? i like to play classical pieces .

[@PianoTone]

They both have very nice main acoustic piano sounds. Acoustic pianos all sound quite different, and so do the Yamaha and Casio. The Yamaha has a brighter sound (like Yamaha acoustic pianos) and the Casio has a deeper "woody" sound (like other brands of grand piano). Which one you prefer is totally personal. Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@Priyanka.Rathore]

Hi, I’m a beginner looking to buy one of two keyboards. But I have zero experience whatsoever and want to learn the keyboard to play songs including Bollywood and various English songs as a side hobby using youtube. I understand the keys on the casio are a bit heavy but the fact that yamaha is easy to connect to a device and also consists addtional sound features, makes it intriguing. Which one should I go for?

[@PianoTone]

Either one is a great choice, but for someone getting started I think the Yamaha offers more - rhythms are great to practice with, and it does have better connectivity. Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@Priyanka.Rathore]

@@PianoTone thank you! I have been quite confused since a week. So I appreciate getting a clear answer. I’ll place the order tonight. Thanks again 🙌🏻

[@orgelkraft]

Direct I liked the Yamaha sound MUCH better, but with your phone microphone the Casio was fuller. Since I will use the default piano 99.9 % of the time I'm leaning to the Yamaha through my Klipsch THX computer speakers.

[@PianoTone]

Thanks for checking out the channel, feel free to subscribe

[@theol1044]

I've found me thinking about the Casio CT-S1 again and again. Too bad Casio doesn't have a really good grand piano sound. Yamaha's Live Grand Piano (= their default sound) sounds sooo much better than Casio's "Stage Piano" default. Casio really should have improved their grand piano sound and made it their showpiece (I have an idea why they didn't). That, and releasing a 76-key version, and I'd buy such an improved version in the blink of an eye.

[@PianoTone]

Yeah I prefer Yamahas piano sound as well, although others do prefer Casio’s (it’s totally personal). And also totally agree a 73-76 key CT-S1 would be a huge improvement! Thanks for checking out the channel feel free to subscribe

[@theol1044]

@@PianoTone It baffles me that Casio made Stage Piano the default with this generation of Casiotones (it's the same on the CT-S400) instead of (Stereo) Grand Piano, which was the default voice on the CT-S100 to 300. To my ears, the Stage Piano voice sounds too bright and sterile. And, if you look into the 'Tone List' for the CT-S1, the Grand Piano voice ('tone') is the only acoustic piano voice (apart from 'Honky-Tonk') that doesn't get the DSP treatment. It's also labeled as 'Vintage', which is usually not a good sign. Looks like gross neglect of the Grand Piano voice to me. It's a pity, because conceptually I like the philosophy behind the CT-S1.

[@AustinPetDetective]

Can you get closer to the mic I can’t hear you?

[@PianoTone]

LOL sure thanks!