Kawai Pianos are a popular choice and are considered a good alternative to a Yamaha piano.  Kawai pianos tend to have a slightly warmer tone and a lighter touch.  Although, like any acoustic piano, this will vary from instrument to instrument.  No two pianos are ever identical and should be judged on their own individual merits.

The best way to compare pianos is by height.  For example, the Yamaha b2 would be a direct comparison to the Kawai K200, as both are 113cm tall and of similar quality.  This means that they both have the same size soundboard and the same length string.  These two factors are what will influence the depth of tone and the overall range of the piano.  It is only the character of the piano which will be different.  At this point, you may have a preference for a brighter/clearer tone, or a softer/more mellow tone.  It is this which may influence your decision between the two models.  

It would be unfair of anyone to say that the Yamaha b2 is better than the Kawai K200, or visa versa.  It comes down to your own personal preference.

We urge you to remember this when looking for a piano; no one is right.  No amount of online research will tell you which piano is best.  After all, all you are reading are peoples’ opinions.  

The same can be said when comparing all new Kawai and Yamaha pianos:

Kawai K15 vs. Yamaha b1

Kawai K200 vs. Yamaha b2

Kawai K300 vs. Yamaha b3

Kawai K500 vs. Yamaha U1

Kawai K600 vs. Yamaha U3S

Kawai K800 vs. Yamaha U5

We hope that this helps to give you more confidence to trust your own opinion.  After all, it is you that will be playing the piano.

Happy playing!