1st Note

Roland

Roland F-701 Review

A slim, modern console piano that does not compromise on feel

MSRP

$1,200

Source: Manufacturer (2026-04)

88 Keys 39 kg pha 4 standard Bluetooth Beginner

Scores

10.0 8.5 3.0 8.2 7.9 Beginner Night Practice Portability Touch Reality Value

Beginner

10.0

Night Practice

8.5

Portability

3.0

Touch Reality

8.2

Value

7.9
How These Scores Were Calculated

Beginner

10.0
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 3.0
Lesson Function Yes +1.5
App Connectivity Yes +1.5
Recording Yes +1
Metronome Yes +0.5
Transpose Yes +0.3
Layer / Split Yes +0.3
Preset Songs 377 +1.5
Sound Variety 324 sounds +0.5

Night Practice

8.5
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 2.0
Headphone Jacks 2 +2
Headphone Type 6.3mm, 3.5mm +1.5
Headphone Optimization Yes +1.5
Key Action Quietness pha 4 standard +0
Volume Control Yes +1
Bluetooth Audio Yes +0.5

Portability

3.0
Factor This Piano Points
Base Score 5.0
Weight 39 kg -1.5
Width 1360 mm -0.5
Battery No +0
Foldable No +0
Key Count 88 keys +0

Touch Reality

8.2
Factor This Piano Points
Key Action Quality pha 4 standard (grade 7) +4.2
Key Count 88 keys +1.5
Polyphony 256 notes +1.5
Sound Modeling SuperNATURAL Piano +0.5
Key Surface ivory-feel +0.5

Our Verdict

The Roland F-701 packs a PHA-4 Standard action, 324 sounds, and full Bluetooth connectivity into a slim cabinet barely deeper than a bookshelf — perfect for smaller living spaces.

Pros

  • PHA-4 Standard action with ivory-feel keys — the same quality action found in the acclaimed FP-30X
  • Remarkably slim depth of 345mm fits against a wall without dominating the room
  • Bluetooth Audio + MIDI lets you stream music and connect to Roland's app wirelessly
  • 324 onboard sounds cover piano, strings, organ, and more for creative exploration
  • Dual headphone jacks (6.3mm + 3.5mm) with Headphones 3D Ambience for immersive practice
  • 377 built-in songs for self-guided learning and enjoyment

Cons

  • 24W / 2 speakers — adequate for a room but noticeably thinner than 4-speaker models
  • 39 kg still requires two people for initial setup and positioning
  • No line output for connecting to external amplification or recording equipment

The Roland F-701 is the smart choice when you want console piano quality but your room cannot accommodate a deep cabinet. At just 345mm deep, it takes up less floor space than most bookshelves, yet delivers the same PHA-4 Standard action that has made the FP-30X a bestseller. The 2-speaker system is the trade-off — it sounds good but lacks the depth and fullness of 4-speaker models. For headphone practice, which is likely most of your playing time in an apartment, this distinction disappears entirely thanks to the 3D Ambience processing.

Technical Deep Dive

About the Key Action

The PHA-4 Standard action is Roland's workhorse keyboard, and it has earned that reputation. The keys have a convincing weight that transitions naturally from heavier bass to lighter treble. The ivory-feel texture on the white keys prevents slipping and feels comfortable during extended practice sessions. An escapement mechanism provides a subtle click that mimics the feel of an acoustic piano's hammer release.

Who Is This Piano For?

The F-701 is ideal for beginners and families who want a proper piano experience without a bulky cabinet taking over the room. Its slim profile works beautifully in apartments and smaller homes. The full Bluetooth connectivity and app support make it a modern learning tool, while the PHA-4 Standard action ensures you develop proper technique from day one.

Specifications

Keys 88
Key Action Pha 4 Standard
Polyphony 256 notes
Sounds 324
Weight 39 kg
Speakers 24W (×2)
Bluetooth Audio + MIDI

Recommended Accessories

🪑

Stand

Stand included

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

Roland F-701 $1,200

How It Compares

F-701 vs RP-107

The F-701 and RP-107 score very similarly across all axes. The RP-107 costs $100 less.

Roland RP-107 →

F-701 vs YDP-S55

The F-701 scores higher in Night Practice. Choose the F-701 if you prioritize quiet practice.

Yamaha YDP-S55 →

F-701 vs KDP75

The F-701 scores higher in Touch Reality. The KDP75 costs $200 less. Choose the F-701 if you prioritize realistic touch.

Kawai KDP75 →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Roland F-701 good for beginners?

Yes. The Roland F-701 scores 10/10 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 Roland F-701 have Bluetooth?

Yes, the Roland F-701 supports both Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth Audio, so you can connect wirelessly to apps and stream audio.

How heavy is the Roland F-701?

The Roland F-701 weighs 39 kg (86 lbs). It scores 3/10 on our Portability scale. This is a stay-in-place instrument — plan its location before setup.

Can I use headphones with the Roland F-701?

Yes. The Roland F-701 has 2 headphone jacks (6.3mm, 3.5mm). It scores 8.5/10 on our Night Practice scale. It also features headphone sound optimization for a more immersive experience.

How many keys does the Roland F-701 have?

The Roland F-701 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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Similar Pianos

Roland

RP-107

$1,100

Roland's connected console — Bluetooth + 324 sounds

10.0 Beginner 8.5 Night Practice 3.0 Portability 8.2 Touch Reality 8.0 Value

Yamaha

YDP-S55

$1,200

The slimmest Arius — fits where other pianos cannot

9.9 Beginner 8.0 Night Practice 3.0 Portability 7.9 Touch Reality 7.7 Value

Kawai

KDP75

$1,000

Kawai's Shigeru Kawai sound in a compact console

9.9 Beginner 8.5 Night Practice 3.0 Portability 6.2 Touch Reality 7.6 Value