Yamaha
YDP-145
$1,100
Yamaha's entry-level Arius — furniture-style simplicity
9.9 Beginner 8.0 Night Practice 3.0 Portability 6.2 Touch Reality 7.4 Value
88 38 kg
View Details Yamaha
Yamaha YDP-S35 Review
Yamaha's slimmest Arius for space-conscious homes
88 Keys 35 kg graded hammer standard Beginner
Scores
How These Scores Were Calculated
Beginner
9.9| 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 | 303 | +1.5 |
| Sound Variety | 10 sounds | +0.3 |
Night Practice
7.0| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Base Score | — | 2.0 |
| Headphone Jacks | 2 | +2 |
| Headphone Type | 6.3mm, 3.5mm | +1.5 |
| Headphone Optimization | No | +0 |
| Key Action Quietness | graded hammer standard | +0.5 |
| Volume Control | Yes | +1 |
| Bluetooth Audio | No | +0 |
Portability
3.0| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Base Score | — | 5.0 |
| Weight | 35 kg | -1.5 |
| Width | 1353 mm | -0.5 |
| Battery | No | +0 |
| Foldable | No | +0 |
| Key Count | 88 keys | +0 |
Touch Reality
6.2| Factor | This Piano | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Key Action Quality | graded hammer standard (grade 5) | +3 |
| Key Count | 88 keys | +1.5 |
| Polyphony | 192 notes | +1.2 |
| Sound Modeling | Yamaha CFX (AWM Stereo Sampling) | +0.5 |
| Key Surface | matte | +0 |
Our Verdict
The YDP-S35 is Yamaha's ultra-slim Arius — just 309 mm deep, it slips against a wall like a bookshelf while still delivering 88 weighted keys and respectable Yamaha CFX piano tone.
Pros
- • Ultra-slim 309 mm depth — the thinnest console piano Yamaha makes, ideal for narrow rooms and apartments
- • GHS weighted action with 88 keys provides a proper piano feel for learning
- • Yamaha CFX-sampled piano tone sounds convincing through the built-in speakers
- • Dual headphone jacks (6.3 mm + 3.5 mm) for parent-child practice sessions
- • Smart Pianist app connectivity via USB for interactive learning features
- • Built-in lesson function with 303 preset songs
- • Stand and three-pedal unit included — no extras to buy
Cons
- • No Bluetooth — wired USB connection only for app and MIDI
- • 16W/2 speakers — adequate for personal practice but won't fill a large room
- • GHS action is Yamaha's entry-level weighted mechanism — lighter touch than GH3X or GrandTouch
The YDP-S35 solves a very specific problem brilliantly: getting a proper 88-key Yamaha piano into a space where nothing else would fit. At 309 mm deep, it's genuinely remarkable how little room it takes — and it doesn't sacrifice the fundamentals. The GHS action is honest and well-balanced for beginners, the CFX tone sample is pleasing, and having a complete stand and pedal unit included means no surprises at checkout. You do miss Bluetooth and the fancier actions of pricier Arius models, but if space is your primary constraint, the YDP-S35 is the most elegant solution Yamaha offers.
Technical Deep Dive
About the Key Action
The Graded Hammer Standard (GHS) action is Yamaha's foundational weighted key mechanism. It replicates the heavier-to-lighter grading from bass to treble that you find on an acoustic piano, teaching correct finger strength from day one. While it lacks the escapement simulation and longer pivot length of Yamaha's higher-end actions (GH3X, GrandTouch), it provides a solid, dependable playing feel that has served millions of beginners well. The matte key surface offers a clean, non-slip finish.
Who Is This Piano For?
You want a real piano in your home, but your home doesn't have room for a real piano. The YDP-S35 was designed exactly for this situation — it's barely deeper than a bookshelf, so it can tuck against a wall in a hallway, bedroom, or small apartment without dominating the space. If you're just starting piano lessons (or restarting after years away), the GHS weighted keys give your fingers a genuine feel for piano technique without the bulk and expense of a larger instrument. The dual headphone jacks also make it practical for a parent and child to listen together during practice.
Specifications
| Keys | 88 |
| Key Action | Graded Hammer Standard |
| Polyphony | 192 notes |
| Sounds | 10 |
| Weight | 35 kg |
| Speakers | 16W (×2) |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Key Surface | Matte |
| Sound Modeling | Yamaha CFX (AWM Stereo Sampling) |
| Headphone Jacks | 2 |
| Headphone Type | 6.3mm, 3.5mm |
| Headphone Optimization | No |
| USB MIDI | Yes |
| Line Out | No |
| Lesson Function | Yes |
| App Connectivity | Yes |
| Recording | Yes |
| Metronome | Yes |
| Transpose | Yes |
| Layer / Split | Yes |
| Preset Songs | 303 |
| Battery | No |
| Foldable | No |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 1353×309×792 mm |
| Stand Included | Yes |
| Pedal Included | Yes |
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.
How It Compares
YDP-S35 vs YDP-145
The YDP-145 edges ahead in Night Practice. The YDP-S35 costs $200 less. Choose the YDP-145 if you prioritize quiet practice.
Yamaha YDP-145 →YDP-S35 vs SE-1
The SE-1 edges ahead in Night Practice and Value. The SE-1 costs $200 less. Choose the SE-1 if you prioritize quiet practice.
Donner SE-1 →YDP-S35 vs KDP-120
The YDP-S35 scores higher in Beginner. Choose the YDP-S35 if you prioritize beginner-friendly features.
Kawai KDP-120 →Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Yamaha YDP-S35 good for beginners?
Yes. The Yamaha YDP-S35 scores 9.9/10 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 Yamaha YDP-S35 have Bluetooth?
No, the Yamaha YDP-S35 does not have Bluetooth. You'll need a USB cable for app connectivity.
How heavy is the Yamaha YDP-S35?
The Yamaha YDP-S35 weighs 35 kg (77 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 Yamaha YDP-S35?
Yes. The Yamaha YDP-S35 has 2 headphone jacks (6.3mm, 3.5mm). It scores 7/10 on our Night Practice scale.
How many keys does the Yamaha YDP-S35 have?
The Yamaha YDP-S35 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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Read more →Similar Pianos
Donner
SE-1
$700
Feature-packed console piano that punches above its price
10.0 Beginner 7.5 Night Practice 3.0 Portability 6.5 Touch Reality 7.8 Value
88 36 kg
View Details Kawai
KDP-120
$900
Kawai quality in a budget console — stand, pedals, and everything you need out of the box
8.4 Beginner 7.0 Night Practice 3.0 Portability 6.2 Touch Reality 7.0 Value
88 39 kg
View Details