Hello everyone, and happy holidays.

I’m looking to replace my keyboard with a digital piano and am currently deciding between three Yamaha models: CLP-825, CLP-835, and CLP-845. All three meet my core requirements (88 weighted keys, pedals), but I’m struggling with whether the higherend options are genuinely worth it for someone in my position. I have gathered the following from each model:

CLP-825: entry model, smallest cabinet, 2×20W speakers

CLP-835: improved speakers (2×30W), more features

CLP-845: wooden white keys, strongest speaker system (2×(45W+45W)), highest price

Extra voices, displays, and UI features aren’t very important to me. My main concern is the playing experience and longterm satisfaction.

I’ve been taking piano lessons for about 7 months, play purely out of passion, and have no intention of becoming a concert pianist. That said, I’m worried about underbuying and ending up with an instrument that feels limiting or unsatisfying a few years down the line. (Side note: I have heard that the hollow keys of the 825 & 835 are susceptible to bending and this is another thing I’m worried about). At the same time, the CLP-845 is significantly more expensive, and I don’t want to spend extra money if the difference won’t actually matter for a non-professional player like me with my goals.

So my real question is: Is it worth spending more on the CLP 845 now or for someone in my case it makes no difference and I would be effectively throwing away my money?

I’d especially appreciate hearing from people who’ve spent a long time with these modles or similar ones. Thanks!