The best metronomes are an essential tool for any musician. They help you play on the beat and should be a part of any practice session. No matter if you are a solo or ensemble player, you need a good metronome.
But, what actually are metronomes?
Metronomes are small devices that keep time. They were first invented in 1815. You will likely have seen the original pendulum metronome design in films. Today metronomes vary in style and function.
However, no matter the metronome you choose, they should all keep good time. Continue reading to learn even more about this amazing music accessory.
Contents
Top 10 Best Metronomes in 2023
1 BOSS BD-90 Talking Dr. Beat Metronome with Power Supply
(Includes Bluecoil 9V DC 670mA Power Supply.)
Features: 30-250 BPM (beats per minutes), weighs 1 pound, 4 voice beat tones, and Rhythm Coach.
Pros
- The Boss BD-90 Talking Dr. Beat Metronome with Power Supply has four different beat tones. For example, one of the tones is a voice. Therefore, you can listen to the beat in the way that best suits your practice style.
- Boss also includes 50 metronome memory storage and 10 reference tone slots, the most available on any metronome.
- Finally, as an additional bonus, you also receive the 9V power supply with your purchase of the BD-90 Talking Dr. Beat. Also, this power supply can be used with many electronic instruments and devices. So, it is multi-functional.
Cons
- You need the 9-volt power supply to run this electric metronome. Therefore, it will be hard to take the product some places. Plus, the chord can get tangled.
- The BD-90 Talking Dr. Beat metronome’s stand breaks easily. It is not as durable as one would hope for with this type of product.
(4.6 / 5)Boss makes a variety of music tools, like stompboxes, effects, loops, synthesizers, and amps. With this wealth of experience in the electronic music industry, it makes sense that Boss’s metronomes would be top-of-the-line. The BD-90 Talking Dr. Beat Metronome illustrates why the company is so famous. If you want an electric metronome with all of the bells-and-whistles, this is the product for you.
But, that’s not all . . .
The Boss BD-90 Talking Dr. Beat comes with an onboard mic, reference-tone function, instrument input, MIDI input, and rhythm coach function. Essentially, if you want a metronome that is essentially an instrument, you should check out the BD-90.
2 BOSS DB-90 Metronome
(Includes a metronome cover.)
Features: MIDI-in, Mic/Guitar/Bass inputs, Rhythm Coach, and PCM drum sounds.
Pros
- Comes with a variety of features that make practicing fun. Most importantly, you receive the rhythm coach function with an onboard mic to help you improve your rhythm skills.
- There are a lot of inputs on the Boss DB-90. These allow you to hook this metronome up to a number of electric instruments and effects. So, you can use the metronome in any situation imaginable.
- The beat range on the DB-90 metronome is very large. It goes from 30-280 BPM (beats per minute).
Cons
- It can be difficult to attach the Boss DB-90 metronome to some instruments like high hats. There are instructions, but they can be hard to understand.
- You can only use the DB-90 to count a fixed tempo. It will not start at one tempo and increase or slow down.
(4 / 5)Boss has done it again with their DB-90 Metronome. Musicians of any level will love this product. It has so many features that it definitely earns the title of “most advanced metronome available.”
And . . .
With your purchase of the DB-90 metronome, you get the safety of buying a product from Boss. Boss has a lot of experience manufacturing products for electronic instruments. Therefore, you know that you will be receiving a high-quality product when you purchase the DB-90.
3 Wittner Tuner 813M
Features: Comes with a bell, walnut colored, weighs 17.76 oz., and a solid wood casing.
Pros
- The all-wood construction of the Tuner 813M makes it a durable and classy metronome.
- Because the Tuner 813M has been made in Germany, you can be guaranteed that it is a high-quality product. You will never have to worry about the Wittner Tuner 813M breaking or having faulty mechanics.
- It weighs just over a pound. So, even though it is a traditional-looking metronome, it doesn’t weigh a lot. And, anyone can use and carry this metronome around.
Cons
- The Wittner Tuner 813M is a mechanical metronome. This means that it doesn’t have the extras like those found electronic metronomes. Mechanical metronomes are also prone to not keeping as good time as electric metronomes.
- There are a lot of internal parts on the Tuner 813M. So, there are many more parts that can break than on electric metronomes.
(4.2 / 5)Wittner is a German company that has been around an impressive 124 years. The founder, Gustav Wittner, created one of the precision mechanical factories specifically designed for metronomes.
But, that’s not the whole story . .
If you want a metronome that has a traditional look, a Wittner is your best bet. The Tuner 813M is part of Wittner’s solid wood series. All of these metronomes are made from wood and have a traditional metronome pendulum shape. Specifically, the Tuner 183M is walnut colored with a mat silk finish.
4 Korg Tuner TM60WH
Features: 12-note equal temperament scale, three tuning modes, 30-252 BPM, three tempo settings, 15 types of rhythm, and weighs 3.53 oz.
Pros
- You can use the tuner and metronome functions simultaneously on the TM60WH. This is an unusual feature that allows you to play in tune while you play in the correct rhythm.
- The TM60WH runs off of battery power. Therefore, you can take this small, handy metronome and tuner anywhere you go.
- The display is backlit for easy reading even in darkened concert halls.
Cons
- The Korg Tuner TM60WH only uses equal temperament tuning. That is the standard tuning system of modern Western music. However, it will make the metronome and tuner hard to use with some instruments.
- Korg’s timing tone—what you hear when the metronome keeps the beat—cannot be changed. You may find this bell-like sound annoying after a while.
(4.4 / 5)Korg is a Japanese company who you may recognize from our digital piano reviews here and here. They, like Boss, are known for their electronic instrument products. In fact, Korg has an entire line of metronomes and tuners for you to choose from.
However, . . .
We think that you should take a long look at Korg’s Tuner TM60WH. This is a metronome and tuner combo that will simultaneously play both beat and pitch. If that wasn’t all, the TM60WH is extremely small and runs off of two AAA batteries. Therefore, it is easy to take form gig to practice session and back again.
5 Wittner 803M Metronome Without Bell
Features: Mechanical pendulum, matte finish, no bell, 40-209 BPM, and weighs eleven pounds.
Pros
- The all-wood construction of the Wittner 803M metronome with Bell makes it extremely durable and stylish.
- Even though it has a traditional design, the 803M still can beat 40-208 times per minute. This is a very large range for a mechanical metronome.
- If you don’t want a bell on your mechanical metronome, you’re in luck. The 803M comes without a bell.
Cons
- At eleven pounds, the 803M is a heavy metronome. So, you will likely not be moving this one around much.
- Because of its mechanical nature, the 803M is prone to getting “off” the beat. Therefore, if you need a highly accurate metronome, you may want to try an electric model.
(4.2 / 5)Another solid wood mechanical metronome by Wittner. The German company has outdone themselves on the high quality of this mechanical metronome. The 803M is cherry colored and has a matte silk finish.
So . . .
If you want a mechanical metronome that will add style to your music room, the 803M is the model to get. However, if you only need a metronome for practicing purposes, you may want to look elsewhere.
6 Korg TMR50BK TMR-50 Tuner Metronome Recorder
Features: loop play function, 12-note equal temperament, 30-252 BPM, weighs 4.19 oz., and includes a recorder and tuner.
Pros
- The TMR50BK is a metronome, tuner, and recording device. Essentially, it does everything you need for a great practice session.
- The TMR-50 comes with an internal mic and speaker. You don’t have to plug anything in the product to use the recording feature. Therefore, if doesn’t take much to get the most out of the TMR-50.
- The Korg TMR-50 is another metronome that is battery-powered. Thus, it is easily transportable.
Cons
- The TMR-50 has a lot of functionality. But, it is only worth the cost if you are going to use all of the features. If you only want a metronome, you should consider a simpler product.
- The recording volume on the TMR-50 is very low. So, you may have a hard time hearing your recorded songs.
(3.8 / 5)With the TMR-50 Korg has designed a product that is a boon to any musician. If you want to improve your playing, you need the TMR-50. This metronome is also a tuner and recorder. And, you can even use all three of these functions simultaneously.
Keep in mind . . .
The Japanese company, Korg, is known for their high-quality products. But, having all three together means that you will sacrifice a little quality of each. Specifically, the recorder has some kinks that need to be worked out. Yet, this is a great product for a music student or beginner.
7 Matrix Tuner (MR600)
Features: pendulum LED display, weighs four oz., 90-day warranty, 40-216 BPM, and adjustable downbeat.
Pros
- The Matrix Tuner MR600 is a wheel-style electric metronome. These types of metronome are the simplest to use.
- This is another battery-powered metronome. Thus, you can transport it easily. The batteries are not included in your purchase.
- The Matrix MR600 does come with a A440 reference pitch. So, you can tune to the metronome even if there aren’t any other pitches included.
Cons
- The MR600 is only a metronome. Therefore, no other features appear in this product other than timekeeping.
- While the 40-216 potential BPM counting isn’t bad, the MR600 does not have as much range as some of the other metronomes on this list.
(4.1 / 5)Matrix has made an easy-to-use metronome with their MR600. This product is designed for simplicity. From its LED display to the class dial, the MR600 can be used by anyone right out of the box.
So . . .
If you want a metronome that is just a metronome. If you don’t want to worry about learning a new piece of technology. Or, if you are new to metronome and want to get your feet wet before you jump into a more advanced model. Then, the Matrix Tuner MR600 is perfect for you.
8 Seiko SQ50-V Quartz Metronome
Features: two types of tempo sounds, LED display, stand, and weighs 5.6 oz.
Pros
- The SQ50-V Quartz Metronome is the most basic model that Seiko produces. So, it is easy to use and understand.
- Although there are not a lot of functions, you can still tune to A440 and play rhythms from 40-208 BPM.
- The dial has LED lighting to make it easy to read even in darkened rooms.
Cons
- The stand on the SQ50-V metronome is rather flimsy. Therefore, it may break easily if not watched.
- This is definitely a utilitarian metronome. So, if you want a stylish accent, you will need to look elsewhere.
(4.2 / 5)Seiko is a Japanese company that creates a number of electronic products. But, they have a division, Seiko Instruments, that produces metronomes and tuners. Seiko has been in business since 1937.
What about their metronomes?
Seiko Instruments’ metronomes run the gamut from traditional pendulum models to electronic dial metronomes and more. For example, you will even find digital and tuner metronomes on their product list. The SQ50-V metronome is one of Seiko’s simplest products. It is a quartz metronome with an easy dial. Truly, you can use this metronome right out of its box.
9 Wittner 836 Taktell Piccolo Metronome
Features: Plastic casing, no bell, and weighs 6.17 pounds.
Pros
- The Wittner 836 Taktell Piccolo Metronome has a timeless look with a durable plastic casing. You get the best of both worlds with the 836.
- The markings on the Wittner 836 are easy to read and understand.
- You don’t have to worry about plugging the 836 into a power source. It is a mechanical metronome.
Cons
- The 836 is a mechanical metronome, so it may not keep as strict time as an electronic model.
- The plastic casing on the 836 is less traditional looking than their all-wood metronomes. So, this product will not look as high-quality as some of Wittner’s other metronomes.
(4.3 / 5)Wittner is a German manufacturer of traditional-looking metronomes. They have been in business since 1895. So, you can be sure that they know how to produce a great metronome. Wittner has a huge product line.
And . . .
The 836 Taktell Piccolo Metronome is part of Wittner’s plastic series mechanical metronomes. It combines the beauty of a traditionally-styled metronome with the functionality of modern production techniques. Plus, it will be much less expensive than Wittner’s all-wood metronomes.
10 KLIQ MetroPitch—Metronome Tuner for All Instruments
(Includes carrying pouch.)
Features: Five tuning modes, tunes in semitones, 30-250 BPM, internal speaker, and weighs 3.2 oz.
Pros
- KLIQ’s Metro-Pitch is a three-in-one metronome. It is a tuner, metronome, and tone generator all rolled into one package. So, if you want versatility, then this is your metronome.
- The digital screen on the Metro-Pitch makes it easy to know what options and modes you have selected.
- KLIQ believes in this product so much that they have included a three-year warranty with your purchase.
Cons
- The KLIQ Metro-Pitch can only produce one rhythm at a time. Therefore, you cannot play in polyrhythm with this metronome.
- It is easy to throw-off the tuner portion of the Metro-Pitch. For example, if there is any background noise you will not get an accurate reading.
(4.4 / 5)KLIQ Music Gear was founded by a band who wanted better clip-on tuner. Because KLIQ is run by working musicians, the company understands what makes a good product.
Let’s get to that product . . .
KLIQ’s Metro-Pitch Metronome is the only three-in-one metronome that the company produces. It is a tuner, tone generator, and metronome. So, this product is perfect for the musician that needs these features. Try one for yourself and discover what makes this metronome stand out from the pack.
Best Metronomes Buying Guide
Today there are so many different types of metronomes that choosing one can be an intimidating proposition. That is why we have created this buyer’s guide. Make sure to research the four features described below. Knowing what you want will help you make the best metronome purchase possible.
- Tuner Included?
Many metronomes are now a combination of metronomes and tuners. Tuners will typically play a range of pitches. These pitches are there to help you tune your instrument. So, they typically center around A440.
Metronome and tuner combinations are a great choice for anyone who needs to tune their instrument and be in tempo. But, if you play a fixed-note instrument like the piano, you do not need a tuner. There is nothing for you to tune.
- Power Source
Even if they look mechanical, all of the metronomes on our top ten list are electric. Electric metronomes are the current king of the industry. Electric metronomes can to dominance because they keep much more reliable time than mechanical metronomes. Plus, they don’t have to be wound up like an old clock.
When you purchase an electric metronome, you still do have to decide what type of power source you want. Some plug into an outlet while others run off of batteries. More modern metronomes may even plug into your computer or electric instrument.
The most versatile metronomes get their power from batteries. They are versatile because they can be easily taken anywhere. You don’t need to worry about finding a power outlet for them. But, knowing the type of power source that will work for you is a simple matter of deciding when and where you plan on using your metronome.
- Ease of Use
Any metronome that you choose should be easy for you to use. The way you turn on the machine, set the tempo, and set the beats should make sense. Ideally, you should be able to take the metronome out of the box and immediately begin using it.
The best way to tell that a metronome is easy to use is to read the descriptions. Most product descriptions will explain the basic functions of the metronome. If these functions are clearly explained, then it is likely that the metronome will be simple to use.
- Shape
Modern electric metronomes come in a variety of shapes. Some look like traditional metronomes. Others have just a dial with different tempos written on it. While still others have a digital screen.
Typically, players are not going to care too much about the shape of their metronome. But, some people like to display their metronomes. If that is you, then the look and shape of the metronome will be as important as its functionality.
Conclusion
In addition to the best metronomes described in this review, there are also digital metronome. Also, many of the digital pianos you encounter in this, this, and this article have built-in metronomes. Yet, you don’t want to just rely on an instrument to come with a great metronome. Instead, you should invest in a good stand-alone metronome that can be used for many different instruments and even be taken to gigs.
Picking out the best metronomes doesn’t have to be that hard. Just go through our top ten list, consult our buyer’s guide, and you will be good to go.
I’m looking for an inexpensive digital and waterproof metronome to whilst I am cycling to keep a rythem going. Any suggestions?