How Much Should I Spend On A Piano?

As a general guide, a sensible used acoustic upright for a beginner in the UK costs between roughly 1,500 and 3,000 pounds. A good full-size professional-grade upright runs from around 4,000 to 6,000 pounds or more, and quality used grand pianos typically start at around 8,000 pounds. The right figure depends on your level, your space and how long you want the piano to last, but the guiding principle is to buy the best-quality instrument your budget sensibly allows.

Budget is usually the first question a buyer asks, and it deserves a straight answer. Below are realistic ranges, and the thinking behind them.

A realistic budget for a beginner

For a beginner, a sensible used acoustic upright generally sits between roughly 1,500 and 3,000 pounds. Within that range you can expect a full-size, properly working piano from a reputable dealer, with delivery, the first tuning and a guarantee included. That is the sweet spot where the instrument is good enough to learn and progress on, without paying for refinements a beginner does not yet need.

It is possible to spend less, but below this range the risk rises sharply. Very cheap pianos often need work that costs more than the saving, and a poor first piano can quietly discourage a learner. We would always rather see a beginner on a sound, modest piano than a troublesome bargain.

For an improving or committed player

Once a player is progressing seriously, a fuller-size, better-quality upright becomes worthwhile. In the UK this typically means somewhere between roughly 4,000 and 6,000 pounds for a good used professional-grade upright from a respected maker. The better action and richer tone genuinely support more advanced playing and make daily practice more rewarding.

For grand pianos

Quality used grand pianos generally start at around 8,000 pounds and rise considerably from there, depending on size, maker and condition. A grand is a significant commitment of both money and space, but for the right player and the right room it is a wonderful instrument. Our grand pianos range covers compact baby grands through to larger instruments.

Remember the cost beyond the price tag

When comparing prices, look at what is and is not included. Delivery, the first tuning once the piano has settled, and a stool all add to the real cost of a piano bought without them. We include these as standard, which makes a like-for-like comparison fairer than the headline figure alone suggests.

Is it worth spending more?

Up to a point, spending a little more is genuinely worthwhile. A better piano has a finer action and tone and a longer life, and those things make practice more enjoyable and the instrument more rewarding to keep. Beyond a certain level the improvements become smaller and more specialised, aimed at advanced and professional players. The honest goal is not to spend as much as possible, nor as little as possible, but to buy the best-quality piano your budget sensibly allows.

Spreading the cost

A good piano is a long-term purchase, and it does not always have to be paid for all at once. We offer payment plans and Hire to Buy options, which can make a better instrument affordable without stretching to it in a single payment. It is worth asking us about these when you visit.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I spend on a piano for a beginner?

As a guide, a sensible used acoustic upright for a beginner in the UK typically costs between roughly 1,500 and 3,000 pounds, with delivery, tuning and a guarantee included from a good dealer.

How much does a good upright piano cost?

A good used upright generally ranges from around 1,500 pounds for a sound beginner instrument up to 6,000 pounds or more for a professional-grade upright from a top maker.

Is it worth spending more on a piano?

Up to a point, yes. A little more usually buys a better action, finer tone and longer life. The aim is to buy the best-quality piano your budget sensibly allows.

Find the right piano for your budget

The Piano Gallery is an independent, family-run piano specialist established in 1980. Whatever your budget, we will have something for you, and we offer payment plans and Hire to Buy to help spread the cost. Come and explore the options in our showroom.

The Piano Gallery
13-17 London Street, Faringdon, Oxfordshire, SN7 7AE
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. Any other time by appointment.
Telephone: 01367 244554  |  Email: sales@thepianogallery.co.uk