Simply Piano vs Pianote (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 an interactive course that listens and corrects — the beginner default at ~$150/year.
Pick Pianote if you want to learn from human teachers on video, with a path past intermediate, at ~$240/year.
| Feature | Simply Piano | Pianote |
|---|---|---|
| MetaScore | 8.6 / 10 (6 sources) | 8.8 / 10 (5 sources) |
| Annual price | $150/yr · $20/mo | $240/yr · $30/mo |
| Free trial | 7-day free trial (card required) | 7-day free trial (card required) |
| Song library | 5,000+ songs | 500+ songs |
| Input | Microphone | Microphone |
| Platforms | iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Web |
| Course style | Structured course | Course + song library |
| Sheet music | Yes | Yes |
| Skill levels | beginner, intermediate | beginner, intermediate, advanced |
| Kids mode | Yes | No |
Breaking it down
Simply Piano (8.6) is software that teaches: structured courses, mic feedback, gamified progression from zero. Pianote (8.8) is teachers on video: real pianists, live Q&A, community critique, and the only advanced curriculum here. One listens to you; the other shows you.
Price reflects the model: ~$150/year for the app, ~$240/year for the school. Beginners who need daily structure and instant correction do better with Simply Piano. Self-motivated learners — especially returning players — get more from Pianote’s depth, and should compare $240 against the cost of actual lessons before flinching.
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.
Pianote: the case for
Pianote is the premium play and it shows in the ratings: real teachers, real community, and content that lasts years instead of months. The catch is the price — $240 a year — and the lack of instant note feedback. If you are serious about piano and self-motivated, it is worth every cent. If you want an app to tell you when you miss a note, get Flowkey instead.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Simply Piano or Pianote?
Simply Piano is cheaper at $150/yr · $20/mo, versus $240/yr · $30/mo for Pianote. Watch our deals page — both apps discount periodically, so the gap moves.
Which is better for beginners, Simply Piano or Pianote?
Both cover beginners; the real split comes down to method. Pick Simply Piano if you want an interactive course that listens and corrects — the beginner default at ~$150/year. Pick Pianote if you want to learn from human teachers on video, with a path past intermediate, at ~$240/year.
What is the main difference between Simply Piano and Pianote?
Simply Piano is a structured course using microphone input; Pianote is a course-plus-library hybrid using microphone input. MetaScores: 8.6 vs 8.8.
Prices and ratings verified September 27, 2026. How we rate apps.