What counts as an upright piano
An upright, or vertical, piano has its strings and soundboard standing upright, which keeps it compact enough for a wall. Uprights are usually sorted into categories by height, because taller cases allow longer strings and a larger soundboard, which generally means fuller tone and more bass. The category names are traditions of the trade, so exact height cut-offs differ from one source to another. Treat the figures below as approximate.
The four main types
Spinet
The smallest type, often given as roughly 36 to 40 inches tall. Spinets typically use a drop action, where the keys sit lower than the hammers and are linked by rods. That design can make servicing harder. Spinets are small and inexpensive, but the short strings and small soundboard limit tone and volume, and many makers no longer produce them.
Console
Commonly given as about 40 to 44 inches tall. Consoles usually have a more direct action than spinets, so touch is typically more responsive. They are popular as furniture-style pianos for homes where space matters.
Studio
Roughly 44 to 48 inches tall, depending on the source. Studio pianos usually have a full-sized direct action, with taller strings and a larger soundboard than a console. They are common in schools and teaching rooms and are a frequent choice for serious students. The full comparison is in studio piano vs upright.
Full-size or professional upright
The tallest group, from around 48 inches upward, sometimes called an upright grand. Larger cases are built for deeper bass, more volume and finer control, and they need more room and often cost more.
Quick comparison
| Type | Approx. height | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Spinet | 36-40 in | Small spaces, tight budgets |
| Console | 40-44 in | Home use, furniture look |
| Studio | 44-48 in | Teaching, serious students |
| Full-size | 48 in and up | Advanced players, large rooms |
How to tell a spinet from a console
Height is the first clue, but the action is more reliable. Open the top lid or ask a technician. If the action sits below the key level and uses rods connecting to the hammers, it is a drop action, typical of spinets. Consoles generally sit the action higher. Serial and model numbers from the maker can confirm it.
Modern variations
Some uprights add technology. Silent pianos let you mute the strings and use headphones. Other systems use the soundboard as a speaker or can play back recorded performances. These add cost and need servicing, so check what is included.
Which type to choose
For a small room, a console may be the practical choice. If you want a better touch and fuller sound for regular study, look at a studio or larger piano, space and budget permitting. A good instrument also makes a piano practice routine easier to stick to. Whatever the size, condition matters as much as category. Our guide to how to select a piano covers inspection and budgeting.
FAQ
What are the three types of upright pianos?
Sources differ. Many lists give three or four: spinet, console, and studio, with full-size or professional uprights as the fourth.
What are the four types of pianos?
This is usually answered as grand, upright, digital and hybrid, though some lists use different groupings.
What is considered the best upright piano?
There is no single best one. The best choice depends on room size, budget, and condition, and trying instruments in person helps.