Difference between an upright piano and a grand piano

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Upright and grand pianos are two iconic musical instruments, but their differences go far beyond their shape. Mechanics, sound, space requirements, budget… every aspect influences the choice of instrument. In this article, we explain the essential differences in detail to help you make the right choice.

A quick overview of the two types of pianos

The upright piano

Compact and vertical, it is often chosen for home use or in small spaces. It offers rich sound while remaining affordable.

The grand piano

A prestigious instrument, it impresses with its sound projection, precise mechanics and imposing aesthetics, ideal for concerts and large spaces.

Comparative table: upright piano vs grand piano

Characteristic	Upright piano	Grand piano
Arrangement of the ropes	Vertical	Horizontal
Mechanical	Less reactive, better suited to the study	Highly responsive, ideal for virtuosity
Sound quality	Clear sound, limited volume	Rich sound, powerful and long sustain
Clutter	Compact (1.10 to 1.35 m high)	Impressive (1.50 to 2.75 m long)
Average price	€2,000 to €15,000	€8,000 to over €200,000
Interview	Regular tuning	More expensive tuning and maintenance
Ideal use	Apartments, beginners, tight budgets	Concerts, recordings, professional pianists

Mechanical differences

H3 – Position and length of the ropes

Upright piano : vertical strings, reduced length → less sustain.
Grand piano : longer, horizontal strings → superior sustain and resonance.

H3 – Striking Mechanics

Upright piano: hammers strike the strings from the front → slower return.
Grand piano: hammers strike from below → faster return, perfect for fast passages.

Sound differences

Projection and volume

The grand piano projects sound upwards and outwards, offering a more pronounced presence in a room.

Nuances and expressiveness

The mechanics of the grand piano allow for more dynamic nuances and control of touch.

Size and design

Upright piano : vertical format, saves space, can be placed against a wall.
Grand piano : requires space around, a well-ventilated and acoustically suitable room.

Budget and maintenance

Price : Grand pianos are always more expensive to buy and maintain.
Maintenance : both require tuning and checking of the mechanics, but parts for a grand piano can cost more.

Which piano should I choose?

For a small space and a limited budget : the upright piano is an excellent compromise.
For professional use and optimal sound : the grand piano is unbeatable.

The choice between an upright and a grand piano depends primarily on your needs, budget, and available space. If you're looking for compactness and accessibility, opt for an upright piano. If you want the best musical experience and space allows, a grand piano is the preferred choice.

🎵 Discover our selection of... on Thomann grand pianos suitable for all levels.

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