If you are looking for a Kawai CX digital piano, you have found the brands most affordable console line: a fixed cabinet instrument with three pedals that sits well below the better known CN and CA series. The CX series consists of two models, the CX-102 and the CX-202, aimed at beginners, families and anyone who wants to practise seriously at home without stretching into the upper price range.
In this spotlight we place the CX series within the wider Kawai lineup and compare the two models point by point: keyboard, sound, speakers and connectivity. That way you can see which of the two suits your ambitions and your budget.
The entry into the console series
Ideal for: Beginners and families who want a true cabinet piano with an honest hammer action
See all Digitalpianos →The top model of the CX series
Ideal for: Ambitious beginners who want more keyboard accuracy, more power and Bluetooth Audio
See all Digitalpianos →01Where the CX series sits in the Kawai lineup
Kawai arranges its console digital pianos in several tiers. At the top are the Concert Artist CA series and the CN series, with wooden keys and elaborate sound generation. The CX series sits below them and is the brands most affordable console line. It deliberately leaves out some premium details of the higher ranges, but keeps the essentials: 88 weighted keys, three pedals in a solid cabinet and the sound of the Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand as its sound source.
To compare the next tier up, see our spotlight on the Kawai CX-202 – Topmodell der CX-Serie für ambitionierte Einsteiger - Schwarz Matt as well as our article on the Kawai CN series. Within the CX series itself there are exactly two models to choose from, which we compare now.
02CX-102 and CX-202 head to head
Both models share the same basic concept and the same sound source, but differ clearly in three areas: keyboard, speakers and wireless connections. The Kawai CX-102 Digitalpiano – Authentischer Anschlag, SK-EX Flügelklang, Bluetooth MIDI - Weiß Matt is the entry point, while the Kawai CX-202 – Topmodell der CX-Serie für ambitionierte Einsteiger - Schwarz Matt steps up in each of these areas.
The table below sums up the main differences. Both offer 17 sounds and 192-note polyphony, which is comfortably enough in the beginner segment.
| Feature | CX-102 | CX-202 |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard | Responsive Hammer Lite, weighted | Responsive Hammer Compact II, triple sensor |
| Sound source | Shigeru Kawai SK-EX | Shigeru Kawai SK-EX |
| Sounds | 17 | 17 |
| Polyphony | 192 notes | 192 notes |
| Speakers | 22 watts (2 x 11) | 40 watts (2 x 20) |
| Bluetooth | MIDI | MIDI and Audio |
03Keyboard and sound: what makes the difference
The most noticeable difference is in the keyboard. The CX-102 uses the Responsive Hammer Lite action, a compact weighted keyboard with graded weighting from low to high registers that helps build finger strength and technique. The CX-202 uses the more advanced Responsive Hammer Compact II with triple-sensor detection, which captures touch and fast note repetition more accurately. Anyone who practises a lot or wants to tackle more demanding pieces later benefits from this precision.
In terms of sound, both draw from the same source, the digitally captured Shigeru Kawai SK-EX concert grand. The audible advantage of the CX-202 comes mainly from its more powerful speaker system of 40 watts versus 22 watts on the CX-102. In larger rooms the CX-202 sounds fuller and carries further.
04Features, connections and everyday use
Both models are console instruments with a fixed stand and three pedals, so true cabinet pianos for the living room or childrens room. A Low Volume Balance feature keeps the tonal balance intact even during quiet evening practice, and a headphone jack allows undisturbed playing at any hour.
Wireless connectivity is where the series splits once more: both offer Bluetooth MIDI to use learning apps and notation software without cables. The CX-202 adds Bluetooth Audio, letting you stream music from a smartphone or tablet straight through the instruments speakers, for example to play along. If you want the entry point and Bluetooth MIDI is enough, the CX-102 serves you well; if you want the complete package, the CX-202 is the one.
You will find more useful accessories in our selection of Digitalpianos.
The Kawai CX series makes stepping into a real console digital piano affordable without skimping on the essentials: a weighted keyboard, three pedals and the sound of a concert grand. The CX-102 is the solid base, the CX-202 the rounder option for anyone planning to stick with it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Kawai CX-102 and CX-202?
Who is the Kawai CX series for?
Where does the CX series sit in the Kawai lineup?
Which CX model should I buy?
Discover the Kawai CX series
Compare the CX-102 and CX-202 at your own pace and find the console digital piano that fits.
Browse all digital pianosView the Kawai CX-202Passende Produkte
Kawai CX-102 Digital Piano – Authentic Touch, SK-EX Grand Piano Sound, Bluetooth MIDI - Satin White
Kawai CX-202 – Top Model of the CX Series for Ambitious Beginners - Satin Black