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.

The Meinl Artisan Edition Maple Tambourine is a well-crafted instrument designed with professional players in mind. It features a 10-inch frame made from 100% maple wood, which offers a warm, natural tone and a durable feel. The tambourine comes with 16 pairs of solid cymbal bronze jingles arranged in two rows. These jingles are 44mm thick and produce a bright, clear, and rich sound that stands out well whether you're playing live or in a studio setting.

Instead of a drumhead, this model relies solely on its jingles for sound, which suits musicians focused on crisp, jangly rhythms rather than drum-like textures. The inside of the frame has an ergonomic wood hand grip, making it comfortable to hold and easy to control during performances. Weighing just over a pound, it’s light enough for extended playing without causing fatigue.

This tambourine’s natural finish and elegant branding add a touch of style, making it a great fit for acoustic, orchestral, worship, or choral music. It may not suit players looking for a traditional tambourine sound that includes drum hits, but for those wanting a high-quality, durable tambourine with clear, bright jingles and a comfortable grip, this Meinl Artisan model is an excellent choice.