The Best Kalimbas
The kalimba is a beautiful percussion instrument that has taken the world by storm. It uses different-sized pieces of metal attached to a resonating box, usually wooden, to sound different notes. Its traditional name is the mbira, hailing from Zimbabwe. Several decades ago, an ethnomusicologist shared this instrument with the world; however, he referred to it as a kalimba. Ever since, this instrument has become a favorite for its easy learning curve and beautiful sound. Read on if you're interested in getting your own kalimba because we've found the best ones on the market.
What to Look For
Many great kalimbas are available today in different sizes and types. In creating this list of the top models, we looked at the following: How many keys does it have? Is it for beginners or advanced users? And what material is it made from? Most kalimbas are made from wood, like the Newlam model with 17 keys. It’s great for beginners and intermediate players and includes everything you need to get started learning and playing. Meanwhile, if you want something not made of wood, the acrylic finger piano from Shiyinvie might interest you. It looks great and fits into most bags with ease, so you can take it with you to your next jam session. Below, we’ll discuss these and our other favorite top kalimbas.
Newlam Kalimba Thumb Piano, 17 Keys
Let the music flow
Have you always dreamed of playing this beautiful instrument? With this 17-key kalimba, it’s never been easier to get started. Each metal prong is engraved with the note’s letter name and a number. This makes it super easy to learn new melodies. And with the carrying case, you can always be sure it’s protected, even when you travel. You may have to tune it up every once in a while, but the same goes for most acoustic instruments.
Pros:
- Includes a hammer for tuning the tines yourself
- The protective case does an excellent job of keeping your kalimba safe
- Can use color indicators to learn music faster
- Indentations on the side make it easier to grip
Cons:
- Could have a bit bigger range for more advanced songs
Lpailon 8-Key Mini Kalimba
For the musical adventurers
If you’re like us, there’s always time for some music. A great way to jam anywhere you go is this mini kalimba. It’s perfect for noodling around while otherwise unoccupied. It also makes a great fidget toy for those that have trouble sitting still. With numbered tines, it’s easy to pick up this little instrument and start playing immediately.
Pros:
- Great for kids since this is a smaller kalimba
- Easily fits in most pockets
- Covers a full C major scale octave
Cons:
- A bit hard to play some songs on it
Unokki 17-Key Mahogany Kalimba
A fuller sound
Are you looking to get a gift for a musical friend or even yourself? Then this kalimba is just the ticket. Beautiful mahogany wood, durable tines that resonate well, and a collection of extras make this a bundle that’s hard to pass up. Not only does it sound gorgeous, but it also looks just as spectacular. The engraving on the front, combined with the sleek wood grain, really make this a standout instrument — perfect for performance and a beautiful display piece when not in use.
Pros:
- High-quality ore steel tines for keys that won’t rust
- Long resonance on notes, they sustain for quite a while
- Included finger covers which help keep your fingertips from getting sore
- Ergonomically shaped sides angle inwards, making it easier to play and reducing wrist strain
Cons:
- The thumb covers are a bit small
Shiyinvie Finger Piano
Looking for something less traditional? This clear acrylic kalimba might be up your alley. It’s just as functional as a wooden one, just with a translucent heart shape. It’s actually on the thinner side of most kalimbas, so it’s great for tossing in a backpack to make music on the go.
Pros:
- Creates a scintillating rainbow effect in sunlight
- Keys stay firmly in place, reducing the need for constant tuning
- Great for social media content since you can see through the body of the kalimba
Cons:
- Doesn’t have the same resonance as a wooden body kalimba
LingTing Kalimba, 34 keys
The virtuoso choice
Okay, enough of the small stuff. This 34-key kalimba, also known by its original Zimbabwean name “mbira”, is for advanced musicians that want a wider range of notes to play. Instead of only having seven notes per octave, this is a fully chromatic kalimba — that is, twelve notes per octave, including the sharps and flats.
Pros:
- Beautifully deep and rich tone
- With all 12 chromatic notes available, you can play more complicated songs
- The rich Violetwood mahogany body not only looks great but also resonates deeply
Cons:
- More expensive than beginner models
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tune the keys of a kalimba?
Tuning a kalimba is very simple. You simply have to tap the metal tines with a small hammer, which sometimes comes with the instrument. To tune the notes lower, lightly tap the metal prong from the top, making the sounding section longer. Hitting it from the bottom will shorten this length, tuning notes upwards.
How should I take care of my kalimba?
If it includes a carrying case or pouch, we recommend keeping it in that. Otherwise, as long as it’s out of sunlight and kept in dry areas, keeping your kalimba in good condition shouldn’t be difficult.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.