Minipiano

A minipiano (also sometimes hyphenated as mini-piano) is a small, often simplified, version of a piano. The term generally refers to pianos that are significantly smaller than standard upright pianos, often featuring a reduced number of keys and a more compact design. Minipianos are designed to be more portable and take up less space than their larger counterparts, making them suitable for smaller living spaces, educational settings, or for individuals with limited space.

The sound quality and range of a minipiano are typically reduced compared to a full-sized piano due to the shorter strings and smaller soundboard. However, many models still offer a reasonably good musical experience and can be suitable for beginners or for playing simple melodies.

Minipianos can come in both acoustic and digital versions. Acoustic minipianos use hammers to strike strings to produce sound, similar to a traditional piano, while digital minipianos use electronic circuits to simulate the sound of a piano. Digital versions often have the added benefit of features such as headphone jacks and different instrument sounds.

The term "minipiano" is sometimes also used to describe toy pianos, although these are generally considered a distinct category due to their significantly lower sound quality and construction geared towards children's play. Distinguishing characteristics of a minipiano, versus a toy piano, are its attempt to replicate the form and function of a real piano within a smaller scale.