Simply Piano vs Piano Tree (2026): Which Is Worth It?
Two of the most-searched piano apps, compared on price, method, and who each one actually suits — from public ratings data, not marketing copy.
Pick Simply Piano if you want the proven quantity — 275,000+ ratings, millions of learners, the most refined beginner curriculum in existence.
Pick Piano Tree if you want to try the underdog free first — modern lessons, strongly positive early reviews, zero cost to evaluate.
| Feature | Simply Piano | Piano Tree |
|---|---|---|
| MetaScore | 8.6 / 10 (6 sources) | 7.9 / 10 (3 sources) |
| Annual price | $150/yr · $20/mo | Pricing varies — see site |
| Free trial | 7-day free trial (card required) | Free tier available; paid plans — see site for current pricing |
| Song library | 5,000+ songs | Undisclosed songs |
| Input | Microphone | Mic or MIDI |
| Platforms | iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Web |
| Course style | Structured course | Structured course |
| Sheet music | Yes | Yes |
| Skill levels | beginner, intermediate | beginner, intermediate |
| Kids mode | Yes | No |
Breaking it down
This is the giant versus the upstart. Simply Piano (8.6) has been tested on more beginners than every other app combined; its 8.6 MetaScore rests on six sources and hundreds of thousands of reviews. Piano Tree (7.9) has a few thousand reviews, three sources, and a free tier.
The rational play is sequential, not either-or: try Piano Tree’s free tier this week at zero cost. If the lessons click, you may never need the $150/year giant. If they feel thin, Simply Piano’s depth is worth paying for — you will know within the 7-day trial.
Simply Piano: the case for
Simply Piano is the default recommendation for total beginners for a reason: the course structure is the most refined in the business, and mic input removes every setup excuse. But it is the most expensive course app here, and intermediate players hit a ceiling fast. Start with the free trial; if you finish the first two courses, it earned its price.
Piano Tree: the case for
Piano Tree is the interesting gamble: early adopters rate it highly, the free tier removes the risk of trying it, and the lesson design feels modern. But be clear-eyed — with a fraction of the reviews of the leaders, our 7.9 MetaScore carries wider error bars. Try the free tier; pay only if the lessons click for you.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Simply Piano or Piano Tree?
Simply Piano is cheaper at $150/yr · $20/mo, versus Pricing varies — see site for Piano Tree. Watch our deals page — both apps discount periodically, so the gap moves.
Which is better for beginners, Simply Piano or Piano Tree?
Both cover beginners; the real split comes down to method. Pick Simply Piano if you want the proven quantity — 275,000+ ratings, millions of learners, the most refined beginner curriculum in existence. Pick Piano Tree if you want to try the underdog free first — modern lessons, strongly positive early reviews, zero cost to evaluate.
What is the main difference between Simply Piano and Piano Tree?
Simply Piano is a structured course using microphone input; Piano Tree is a structured course using mic or midi input. MetaScores: 8.6 vs 7.9.
Prices and ratings verified September 27, 2026. How we rate apps.