1st Note

Casio

Casio CDP-S360 Review

700 sounds in a slim body — the budget arranger that doubles as a piano

MSRP

$550

Source: Spec page (2026-04-07)

88 Keys 10.9 kg scaled hammer action ii Intermediate

Scores

8.6 4.5 5.5 6.4 6.2 Beginner Night Practice Portability Touch Reality Value

Beginner

8.6

Night Practice

4.5

Portability

5.5

Touch Reality

6.4

Value

6.2
How These Scores Were Calculated

Beginner

8.6
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 3.0
Lesson Function Yes +1.5
App Connectivity No +0
Recording Yes +1
Metronome Yes +0.5
Transpose Yes +0.3
Layer / Split Yes +0.3
Preset Songs 152 +1.5
Sound Variety 700 sounds +0.5

Night Practice

4.5
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 2.0
Headphone Jacks 1 +1
Headphone Type 3.5mm +0.5
Headphone Optimization No +0
Key Action Quietness scaled hammer action ii +0
Volume Control Yes +1
Bluetooth Audio No +0

Portability

5.5
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 5.0
Weight 10.9 kg +1
Width 1322 mm -0.5
Battery No +0
Foldable No +0
Key Count 88 keys +0

Touch Reality

6.4
Factor This Piano Points
Key Action Quality scaled hammer action ii (grade 6) +3.6
Key Count 88 keys +1.5
Polyphony 128 notes +0.8
Sound Modeling AiR Sound Source +0.5
Key Surface Standard +0

Our Verdict

The CDP-S360 is Casio's answer for players who want piano practice and band-style sounds in one affordable, portable package — 700 tones, lesson features, and line out, all under 11 kg.

Pros

  • 700 built-in sounds — piano, organ, strings, synth, bass, and more
  • Built-in lesson function with 152 preset songs for self-study
  • Line out for connecting to an amp or PA system at gigs
  • Layer and split modes let you combine two sounds or divide the keyboard
  • Slim body at 10.9 kg — same ultra-thin chassis as the PX-S series
  • USB-MIDI for connecting to a computer or DAW

Cons

  • Scaled Hammer Action II is noticeably less refined than Tri-Sensor models — no third sensor for fast repetition
  • No Bluetooth at all — no wireless MIDI, no audio streaming
  • Single 3.5mm headphone jack — you'll need an adapter for studio headphones
  • No app connectivity — no Chordana Play or similar
  • Key surface is plain plastic — no ivory or ebony texture

The CDP-S360 is the right choice when you want variety more than purity. At $550, no other 88-key weighted keyboard gives you 700 sounds, lesson functions, and a line out in a body this slim. The trade-off is a less sophisticated key action and zero Bluetooth. If you're primarily a pianist who wants the best touch, the PX-S1100 is a better fit at a similar price. But if you want one instrument that handles piano, organ, strings, and everything in between — especially for church or band use — the CDP-S360 delivers remarkable value.

Technical Deep Dive

About the Key Action

The Scaled Hammer Action II is a step below Casio's Tri-Sensor models. It's weighted and graded — heavier in the bass, lighter in the treble — so it feels like a real piano in broad strokes. But it uses two sensors per key instead of three, which means very fast repeated notes (trills, rapid passages) can feel slightly sluggish compared to the PX-770 or PX-870. The keys are smooth plastic without any texture coating. For the price, it's a solid action, but if piano touch is your top priority, consider spending more on a Privia model.

Who Is This Piano For?

You play piano but also want organ, strings, and synth sounds for church worship, a casual band, or just for fun at home. You need something light enough to bring to rehearsal and affordable enough that you're not stressed about it. The 700 sounds make this more of a do-everything keyboard than a pure piano — and that's exactly the point.

Specifications

Keys 88
Key Action Scaled Hammer Action Ii
Polyphony 128 notes
Sounds 700
Weight 10.9 kg
Speakers 16W (×2)
Bluetooth No

Recommended Accessories

🪑

Stand

Stand not included (sold separately)

A sturdy X-stand or furniture-style stand is essential if one isn't included.

🎧

Headphones

Closed-back headphones with good bass response make practice sessions more enjoyable.

🎹

Sustain Pedal

The included pedal is usually basic. A half-damper pedal upgrade is worthwhile for expressive playing.

💺

Bench

An adjustable-height bench helps maintain proper posture during long practice sessions.

Where to Buy

Casio CDP-S360 $550

How It Compares

CDP-S360 vs CDP-S160

The CDP-S360 scores higher in Beginner. Choose the CDP-S360 if you prioritize beginner-friendly features.

Casio CDP-S160 →

CDP-S360 vs XE20

The XE20 edges ahead in Night Practice and Portability. The CDP-S360 costs $150 less. Choose the XE20 if you prioritize quiet practice.

Korg XE20 →

CDP-S360 vs FP-10

The CDP-S360 scores higher in Portability, while the FP-10 edges ahead in Touch Reality. Choose the CDP-S360 if you prioritize portability.

Roland FP-10 →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Casio CDP-S360 good for beginners?

Yes. The Casio CDP-S360 scores 8.6/10 on our Beginner scale, which means it has strong learning features like lesson modes, app connectivity, and built-in songs to help new players get started.

Does the Casio CDP-S360 have Bluetooth?

No, the Casio CDP-S360 does not have Bluetooth. You'll need a USB cable for app connectivity.

How heavy is the Casio CDP-S360?

The Casio CDP-S360 weighs 10.9 kg (24 lbs). It scores 5.5/10 on our Portability scale. This is light enough to carry between rooms or to lessons.

Can I use headphones with the Casio CDP-S360?

Yes. The Casio CDP-S360 has 1 headphone jack (3.5mm). It scores 4.5/10 on our Night Practice scale.

How many keys does the Casio CDP-S360 have?

The Casio CDP-S360 has a full 88-key keyboard, the same as an acoustic piano. This gives you the complete range for any piece of music.

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