Upright pianos can be slightly more challenging to play compared to grand pianos, mainly due to the action design. Upright pianos have a vertical action mechanism, while grand pianos have a more direct horizontal action. This difference can affect the speed and control of the keys. However, with practice and adjustment, an upright piano can be mastered just as effectively as a grand piano. It is also important to note that the quality of an upright piano can vary greatly, and a well-maintained or high-quality upright may not be significantly harder to play than a grand piano.