Best Bodhráns & Frame Drums of 2025

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Bodhráns and frame drums are traditional percussion instruments that have been used for centuries in Celtic music. These instruments are made of wood or synthetic materials and are played with a beater or by hand. Bodhráns are Irish drums that have a distinctive sound and are played with a double-ended stick called a tipper. Frame drums, on the other hand, are used in a variety of musical genres and are played by striking the head with the fingers or a drumstick. These instruments are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings, from traditional folk music to contemporary world music.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Bodhráns & Frame Drums
World Rhythm 6 Inch Frame Hand Drum
The World Rhythm Hand Drum is a fantastic choice for both adults and children, making it a versatile addition to any percussion set-up. Its lightweight design ensures easy handling, allowing you to enjoy music-making without strain. The high-quality wooden construction produces a rich, resonant sound that enhances your musical experience. You can explore various playing techniques, such as tapping your fingers or striking it with your hand, providing flexibility in how you create rhythms. Plus, a lightweight beater is included for added convenience.
REMO Buffalo E1-1316-BE 16" Black Drum
The REMO Buffalo Drum is designed with an Acousticon frame that enhances sound quality while being lightweight. Its rope suspension allows for better resonance, giving you a richer tone when played. Included with the drum is a beater, ensuring you have everything you need to start playing immediately. The fixed pre-tuning means you won’t have to worry about adjusting the drum, making it convenient for both beginners and experienced players alike.
Percussion Plus PP637 Monkey Drums for Children
The Percussion Plus Monkey Drums are a delightful introduction to the world of percussion for children. This traditional hand drum features a lightweight wooden frame and handle, making it easy for young ones to handle and play. The natural skin head produces authentic sounds, allowing you to explore various rhythms. You can create music by simply rolling the handle between your palms, which is not only fun but also helps develop motor skills and musicality in little ones.
Sonic Energy 18" Ocean Wave Drum
The Sonic Energy Ocean Drum is designed to create the soothing sounds of the ocean, perfect for enhancing your meditation or yoga sessions. Its 18-inch diameter makes it versatile for sound journeys or as a percussion instrument. You can easily adjust the volume to suit your needs by adding or removing the beads inside. Plus, you don’t need any previous musical knowledge to play it, allowing you to focus on your relaxation and mindfulness without any barriers.
Handcrafted Rosewood Bodhran Drum Tipper - 9 Inch
The Rosewood Bodhran Drum Tipper is expertly crafted from seasoned rosewood, ensuring durability and producing rich, warm tones that enhance your music. Its 9-inch size is perfect for traditional Irish bodhran drums, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced players. The natural finish not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also highlights the craftsmanship. Designed for optimal balance and comfort, it allows for extended play without discomfort, letting you immerse yourself in the rhythm of Irish music.
A-Star 6 Inch Pre-Tuned Hand Drum
The A-Star Hand Drum is easy to play, thanks to its compact and lightweight design that makes it highly portable. This drum features a pre-tuned skin head, which means you won't have to worry about constant tuning, allowing you to focus on creating rhythms. Crafted from durable materials, it is built to last and can endure regular use. With its versatile sound range, this hand drum is perfect for various musical styles, making it suitable for players of all skill levels.
Akamino 4 Pack Wooden Hand Drum Set
The Akamino Wooden Drum Set is a complete package for budding drummers. It includes four wooden hand drums in sizes 6, 7, 8, and 10 inches, allowing you to explore various tones and rhythms suitable for all ages. Made from high-quality wood, these drums promise durability and excellent sound quality, ensuring a pleasant playing experience. The exquisite craftsmanship enhances both aesthetics and sound richness, making your musical journey enjoyable and engaging.
GEWA 822210 Quality Schlägel for Bodhran
The GEWA 822210 Schlägel is designed with ideal quality in mind, ensuring that you can enjoy playing your bodhran to its fullest potential. Made from common beech, this single percussion stick offers a robust and durable option for musicians. Its construction not only enhances your playing experience but also provides a comfortable grip, allowing for longer practice sessions. With the GEWA 822210 Schlägel, you can expect an improved sound quality, making your rhythms more vibrant and engaging.
JOIKIT 3 Pack Hand Drum Set with Beater
The JOIKIT Hand Drum Set offers reliable quality with its sturdy wooden frame and smooth sheepskin drum surface, ensuring a comfortable playing experience. Its easy-to-use design allows you to create harmonious tones, whether you strike with a drumstick or your palm. With three different sizes, you can explore a variety of sounds, making it perfect for beginners and experienced musicians alike. Lightweight and versatile, this set is ideal for family gatherings, band practices, or any occasion where you want to enjoy music.
Meinl Percussion Sea Drum with Goat Skin
The Meinl Sea Drum is a unique hand drum featuring goat skin and steel balls that create soothing ocean wave sounds. Its hand-played design allows you to easily engage during jam sessions or performances. The removable steel balls provide flexibility, enabling you to customise your sound experience. Crafted with hand-selected goat skin, this drum guarantees an authentic tone, ensuring your music resonates beautifully. Whether in the studio or on stage, this drum is designed for effortless playability, making it an excellent choice for any musician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the handheld Irish drum called?
The Irish bodhran drum is a frame drum with a shallow body and a single-skin head. It is common throughout Irish traditional music and other forms of Celtic music.
2. Where is the frame drum from?
The frame drum came from Mesopotamia at an early date. The barrel drum was possibly known in Hellenistic times, for it appears in the Greco-Indian culture of Kushan.
3. Is the bodhran Irish or Scottish?
The bodhrán (/ˈbaʊrɑːn, baʊˈrɑːn, ˈbɔːrɑːn, ˈbɔːrən/, Irish: [ˈbˠəuɾˠaːnˠ]; plural bodhráin or bodhráns) is a frame drum of Irish origin ranging from 25 to 65 cm (10–26 in) in diameter, with most drums measuring 35–45 cm (14–18 in). The sides of the drum are 9–20 cm (31⁄2–8 in) deep.
4. Where are Walton Bodhrans made?
Authentic Irish instruments made in Dublin from high quality materials. We offer great value and fast delivery. Waltons have been making high quality Irish folk instruments for more than 90 years from their base in Dublin so they are the first company to look to when thinking of purchasing a Bodhran.
During our bodhráns & frame drum research, we found 251 bodhráns & frame drum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,617 customer reviews through our big data system to write the bodhráns & frame drums list. We found that most customers choose bodhráns & frame drums with an average price of £29.23.
The bodhráns & frame drums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of bodhráns & frame drums, including World Rhythm, REMO, Percussion Plus, Sonic Energy, Tartancity.

Hayden was born in Liverpool, and he never left his hometown until university. In his freshman year at the University of Manchester, Hayden was the group leader of a popular music group. Hayden is responsible for the popularity of his music, and this is because of his natural ability to play with keys and strings. He graduated with BFA in 2016 and returned in 2018 as a lecturing staff in the School of Music.