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There are a ton of threads discussing whether Grand Feel II, PHA-50 or some other top action is the best, meaning closest to a real grand.

But if we limit ourselves to actions below this price range, which are then the best actions? And is the difference huge between these actions and the top actions? Or is the difference more subtle?

Of course, you don't have to name a specific action, you can just name a digital piano model that you think is great value and close to a grand in action feeling.

What price range do you have in mind?

Any price range, but since I want to exclude the top ones such as GFII, RM3, PHA-50 and NWX or whatever Yamahas best offering is called, I guess I am talking about something in the price range below Kawai VPC1 which is probably the most inexpensive "top" action. Also, prices vary across markets. I live in Denmark and prices might not be exactly the same as in the US. So instead of focusing on a particular price level, I am more interested in knowing which of the actions below the top ones are great value. And also, how big the difference is up to the best actions.

VPC1 has actually RM3 Grand II action -- so I wonder why are you about to exclude RM3?

Sorry, then the RM3 Grand II. The essence of the question is still the same: Which are the best actions below the top ones, and how big is gap? With regards to repetitions, key return etc.

I am not sure whether the action on my recently acquired Kawai MP11, Grand Feel, would qualify your criteria as it is "below" GF2. I don't have much experience playing other digital actions, aside from once in a Yamaha dealer playing their CLP-545 (I think), CVP-709, and Avantgrand N1.

I would say the MP11's GF is still different from the true grand actions in my other two pianos in the same room. It gets my purpose of purchase done, i.e. to practice at night time (and good enough to make my finger exercises meaningful).

I think that in 1000$ or below, Casio Privia current generation is one of the best.
I tried a lot of digital actions in that price range before I decided to buy my PX-5S.

Now I've ordered a Kawai VPC1 blindly(suppose to arrive in two months) because I want an accurate simulation of an accoustic piano, not just an expressive action.

I did the same shortly after its release. I have no regrets!

Some to look into cheaper than VPC1, roughly in ascending price order on thomann.de

Casio px160, Kawai ES100, Roland FP30, Kawai ES110, Yamaha YDP163, Kawai CN25

Best value would probably be discontinued, clearance, used, demo, bstock, store return etc...

Some relatively recent threads here speak pretty highly of older Kawai MP models with wooden keys, MP10, MP8ii, MP8, MP9500, MP9000. Maybe keep an eye out for someone selling one local that you could try out.

The action casio uses across its privia line is really good for the price.