10 Best Tambourines 2026 in the United States

The Remo TA-5210-52 Fiberskyn Tambourine is a 10-inch, rectangular percussion instrument featuring a Fiberskyn drumhead known for its warm, natural sound. Its deep red color gives it a classic look, and weighing just under a pound, it is lightweight and easy to handle, which suits players who want comfort during extended play.

The tambourine’s durable construction suggests it can withstand regular use, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced musicians seeking reliability.

This Remo tambourine offers a quality drumhead and manageable size, making it ideal for casual players or those looking for a dependable, lightweight instrument.

The Pearl Orchestral Tambourine (PETM1018GC) is designed with quality and playability in mind. It features an 18-pair set of hand-hammered jingles made from a mix of German Silver and Beryllium Copper, giving it a bright, rich sound that stands out well in orchestral or studio settings. The tambourine’s 10-inch mahogany shell is sturdy and offers a natural wood finish, which not only looks good but also helps produce a warm tone. The head is made from goatskin, a traditional material known for its natural feel and responsive sound.

This tambourine includes a stacked jingle setup with both wide and narrow windows, allowing for a versatile range of jingle sounds and added texture. The contoured hand hold is designed to fit comfortably in the player’s hand, making it easier to grip during extended playing. At just under 2 pounds, it is reasonably lightweight but may feel a bit heavier compared to plastic or thinner wood models, which could be a factor for some users.

Excelling in craftsmanship and sound quality, its size and price point suggest it is best suited for serious musicians or orchestral players rather than casual or beginner use. If you value rich sound and durable materials in a tambourine, this Pearl model could be an excellent choice.

This professional Riq tambourine stands out with its beautiful, natural mother of pearl inlaid design, making it both a visually stunning and high-quality instrument. Sized at about 10 inches square and weighing 2.2 pounds, it feels solid yet manageable to hold. The frame is made of cast aluminium, which adds durability while maintaining a lightweight feel. It comes with a high-quality professional skin head that produces a strong, clear sound—ideal for players looking for authentic tone and volume. The tambourine includes jingles typical of a riq, adding the traditional bright metallic accents to the sound.

One nice bonus is the included tuning key and carrying case, allowing players to adjust the skin tension for their preferred tone and easily transport the instrument. The grip is comfortable enough for extended playing, though the relatively heavier weight compared to simpler wooden tambourines might require some getting used to. Since it’s handmade with natural materials, it may appeal especially to professionals or serious enthusiasts who value craftsmanship and sound quality over a basic tambourine.

It might be less suitable for casual players or children due to its price and delicate inlay work. This Riq is a well-crafted, beautiful instrument that delivers strong sound and durability, perfect for musicians who want a professional-level tambourine with a traditional flair.