The Top 3 Metronomes for your Money
These days, finding a metronome can be complicated. Physical or app-based? No-frills or fully loaded? This list will help you sort through the options.
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3. Pulse
Price: Free
Best for: super-minimalist design
Features:
Visual beat indicator
Rhythmic subdivisions
Tap beat function
Bluetooth sharing
With its sleek, stripped-down design, Pulse is great for anyone who needs a metronome app without any distractions. It’s just you and the beat. A simple scroll wheel in the center allows you to set the tempo. You can also set the tempo by tapping the beat in the blank space just below the wheel.
The rhythmic subdivision function is basic—no irregular subdivisions here! It’s also inconveniently tucked away in the gear icon and not intuitive to access. That said, it’s probably enough for most users.
Bluetooth sharing enables users to sync their tempo with others nearby.
On the whole, this is a great basic, FREE app with enough standard features for the average user.
2. Korg TM60
Price: $24.95
Best for: rugged physical metronome, basic functionality
Features:
Visual beat indicator
Rhythmic subdivisions
Tap beat function
Headphone jack
Tuner
Want a basic physical metronome that covers most of your bases? This is that thing. The Korg TM60 combines a solid tuner and metronome in one. It works well for beginners or anyone who wants to use a physical device rather than relying on their phone. Its backlit LCD screen ensures you’ll be able to see it even in low-light conditions.
It can perform rhythmic subdivisions and has a handy tap beat feature. Unlike some apps, it also allows you to run both the metronome and tuning functions at once so you can monitor your playing in real time.
1. Tonal Energy Tuner
Price: $ 3.99
Best for: sophisticated users, tuning functionality
Features:
Timer
Rhythmic subdivisions
Tap beat function
Tuner
Recording function
The TE Tuner app really has it all. The metronome function handles subdivisions with ease, including irregular subdivisions such as 7 and 9. Not only does it have a great metronome, it’s also a full-service app that makes for a fantastic practice tool.
The Activity function can help you keep track of the days you practice and help you set daily goals for your practice. TE Tuner can even check your tuning over the course of an entire piece using spectrum analysis with the Sound function. This will be particularly useful to string players and vocalists, especially if you struggle with wobbly tuning.
It’s my all-around top pick for anyone from beginners to professionals.