8 Best Djembe Drums

So you’re in the market for a new drum and you’ve come across a variety of options. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. Luckily, this article will break down and compare some popular djembe drum options to help you make an informed decision.

For centuries, the djembe drum has been an integral part of West African culture. It originated in countries like Mali, Guinea, and Senegal, where it played a vital role in community gatherings, ceremonies, and celebrations. These drums were traditionally made with a wooden shell and covered with goat skin for the drumhead. Today, they have evolved into modern versions that still honor the rich heritage they carry.

There are several benefits to owning a djembe drum. Firstly, it allows you to tap into the rhythmic world of African music and discover a new sound. It offers a unique and immersive experience, as you use your hands to create the beats. Additionally, playing the djembe drum can be a great way to relieve stress and improve coordination and rhythm skills. Whether you’re a professional musician or a beginner looking to explore a different musical path, owning a djembe drum can bring joy and inspiration into your life.

In this article, we will take a closer look at several djembe drum options: the Kmise 8″ Djembes African Hand Drum, the lotmusic African Djembe Drum, the Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum, the BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum, the Djembe Drum Carved Bongo, the Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum, and the BORIYAM Djembe Drum. By examining their features, craftsmanship, and sound quality, you will be able to find the perfect djembe drum that suits your needs and preferences. So let’s dive in and explore these fascinating instruments!

Kmise 8″ African Hand Drum Mahogany Standard Goat Skin Drumhead

The Kmise 8″ Djembe African Hand Drum Mahogany Standard Goat Skin Drumhead (MI3039) is a versatile instrument that is suitable for various purposes. It is primarily used in musical performances, drum circles, and cultural events. This djembe drum is perfect for both professional musicians and beginners who want to explore the vibrant sounds of African music.

We are impressed with the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the Kmise 8″ Djembe African Hand Drum. The use of real Indonesian mahogany ensures a high hardness and density, resulting in outstanding sound quality. Additionally, the drum skin is made from adult goatskin, which enhances the overall tonal qualities and responsiveness of the drum. We appreciate the attention to detail and the use of authentic materials, making this drum a reliable choice for any drummer.

The Kmise 8″ Djembe African Hand Drum is designed to provide a rich and authentic African drumming experience. Its key features include a high-strength inelastic mountaineering lanyard that keeps the drum in tune for extended periods. The drum’s hollowed-out body, made from a single piece of wood, ensures uniform vibration transmission for optimal sound projection. Additionally, the drum features a stunning ethnic-style painting, adding a touch of beauty and exoticism to its appearance.

The overall quality of the Kmise 8″ Djembe African Hand Drum is exceptional. The use of real Indonesian mahogany and premium goatskin drumhead contributes to its durability and outstanding sound quality. The drum is meticulously crafted to provide a balanced and resonant tone, making it suitable for a variety of musical genres and settings. Its solid construction ensures longevity, allowing musicians to enjoy its exceptional performance for years to come.

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality.
• Durable construction.
• Authentic materials.
• Suitable for various musical genres.
• Eye-catching ethnic-style painting.

Cons:

• Drum surface may not be completely flawless due to the use of unbleached adult goatskin.

The Kmise 8″ Djembe African Hand Drum is a top-notch instrument that offers exceptional sound quality and durability. Its authentic materials and careful craftsmanship make it a reliable choice for both professionals and beginners. Whether used in performances or cultural events, this djembe drum delivers an authentic African drumming experience.

West African Style 8×16 Djembe Drum with Rope and Goat Skin Cover

The Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is primarily designed for playing West Africa style music. It is a rope-goblet drum that is played using hands. The drum is covered with goat skin, which produces a unique and resonant sound when struck.

There are several reasons why we appreciate the Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe. Firstly, its compact size makes it perfect for kids or as a decorative item. It is also made with premium quality materials by the renowned brand, bnd top, ensuring durability and longevity.

Additionally, the Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is a versatile instrument that can be used for various purposes. Whether you are looking to create music, join a drum circle, or simply enjoy the therapeutic benefits of drumming, this drum is an excellent choice. It is also an affordable option, making it an ideal gift for percussion enthusiasts of all ages.

The primary purpose of the Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is to provide individuals with a traditional West African drumming experience. Its key features include the use of goat skin as the drumhead material, which produces a rich and authentic sound. The drum is also designed to be played using hands, allowing for a more organic and intuitive playing experience.

Furthermore, the Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is available in a wide range of sizes, catering to different preferences and musical styles. Whether you prefer a smaller drum for kids or a larger one for professional performances, this product has you covered. Its compact size also makes it portable, allowing you to take your drumming wherever you go.

The Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is crafted with excellent attention to detail, ensuring a high level of quality. The use of premium materials, such as goat skin and durable ropes, contributes to the drum’s longevity and reliability. The drum also undergoes strict quality control measures to ensure that it meets the highest standards.

Pros:

• Compact size suitable for kids or decoration
• Premium quality materials
• Versatile instrument for various purposes
• Affordable price
• Wide range of sizes available

Cons:

• May not be suitable for advanced or professional drummers seeking a specific sound quality

The Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is a top choice for anyone interested in West African drumming. Its compact size, premium quality, and versatility make it an excellent addition to any percussion collection.

African Djembe Drum – 9.5″ Carved Mahogany Congo Drum with Goatskin Drumhead

The lotmusic African Djembe Drum, 9.5” Carved Mahogany Congo Drum is primarily used by adults for professional performances, drum circles, and music therapy sessions. It is also suitable for beginners and students in primary, grade, and middle schools.

The “lotmusic African Djembe Drum” stands out in the market due to its exceptional durability, tonal range, and craftsmanship. Its genuine goatskin drumhead offers a fantastic tonal range, from piercing slaps to deep resonating bass sounds. The drumhead is highly ductile, ensuring flexibility and longevity.

The purpose of the lotmusic African Djembe Drum is to provide musicians with a professional-grade instrument that showcases the rich sound and cultural heritage of African drumming. Here are its key features:

• Genuine Goatskin Drumhead: The drumhead is made from authentic goatskin, providing excellent tonal quality and responsiveness.

• Handmade Craftsmanship: Each drum is individually handmade, ensuring precise and stable sound. The jembe drum’s four-button lock rope system helps maintain its pitch for an extended period before requiring tuning.

• Standard Size: The bongo congo drum measures 9.5”x20”, weighing 3.5 KG, making it suitable for adults and students alike. It serves as an excellent starter drum for beginners.

• Hand-Carved Mahogany: The drum body is crafted from solid mahogany, showcasing intricate hand-carved patterns, including an elephant motif and other traditional elements. These carvings are the result of skilled artisans’ craftsmanship.

• Excellent Customer Support: The manufacturer provides dedicated customer service. Buyers can contact them if they encounter any issues with the bongo congo drums, ensuring a satisfactory purchasing experience.

The quality of the lotmusic African Djembe Drum is outstanding. From the durable goatskin drumhead to the solid mahogany body and meticulous hand-carved designs, it exemplifies excellent craftsmanship. The drum’s tonal range and reliability make it a favorite among professional musicians and educators.

Pros:

• Genuine goatskin drumhead for superior tonality
• Individually handmade with a four-button lock rope system for precise and stable sound
• Standard size suitable for adults and students
• Beautiful hand-carved elephant pattern and traditional elements on the drum body
• Responsive customer support for assistance and guidance

Cons:

• The drum may require occasional tuning to maintain its optimal sound quality

For drummers and enthusiasts seeking top-notch sound, durability, and cultural aesthetics, the lotmusic African Djembe Drum is a fantastic option.

Remo Mondo Djembe Drum, 14″ – Earth

The Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum – Earth, 14″ is primarily used for drumming and percussion performances. It is suitable for both professional musicians and beginners who want to experience the vibrant sound of the djembe drum.

We are impressed with the exceptional quality and outstanding sound produced by the Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum. Its earthy design adds a touch of elegance to any stage or performance setting. Additionally, it is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to transport and play for extended periods.

The purpose of the Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum is to provide musicians with a high-quality instrument that delivers powerful and resonant sound. Crafted by expert artisans, this drum showcases the rich heritage of African djembe drums while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques.

With a 14″ diameter and an overall height of 25″, this drum is well-suited for a variety of musical genres, including world music, folk, and even modern pop. Its synthetic drumhead is designed to replicate the characteristics of traditional animal skin, offering authentic tones while remaining durable and long-lasting.

The overall quality of the Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum is exceptional. Its construction ensures durability and longevity, ensuring that it will withstand the demands of regular use. The drum produces a deep resonance, providing musicians with a rich and full sound that is highly sought after in the djembe community.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to transport.
• Crafted with attention to detail and expert craftsmanship.
• Authentic sound, comparable to traditional animal skin drums.
• Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.

Cons:

• May be considered a bit pricey compared to other djembe drums on the market.

The Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum – Earth, 14″ is a top-notch instrument that delivers exceptional sound quality and durability. Its stylish design and authentic sound make it a great option for both beginners and professionals. While it may come with a slightly higher price tag, the overall value and performance of this drum are well worth the investment.

Blue Mini Djembe Drum, 6×14 inches

The BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum is a versatile instrument that is perfect for both beginners and professionals. With its compact size and lightweight design, it is ideal for traveling musicians or those who simply want to enjoy the rhythmic sounds of the djembe drum in the comfort of their own home.

We absolutely love the BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum because it offers incredible sound quality in a small package. Despite its compact size, this drum produces deep, rich tones that make it a joy to play. It is also incredibly easy to tune, allowing musicians of all skill levels to customize their sound to suit their personal preferences.

The BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum is a rope-tuned covered goblet drum that is traditionally played with bare hands. Originally from West Africa, the djembe drum has gained popularity worldwide for its unique sound and cultural significance. The BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum is a high-quality instrument that captures the essence of this traditional drumming experience.

Key Features:

• Compact size: measures 6×14 inches, making it easy to transport and store.
• Lightweight design: weighs only a few pounds, allowing for comfortable use during long performances or practice sessions.
• Rope-tuned: allows for easy tuning and gives musicians control over their desired sound.
• Covered goblet design: produces deep, resonant tones that are characteristic of the djembe drum.

The overall quality of the BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum is excellent. The craftsmanship is evident in its beautiful design and attention to detail. The drum is made with high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced drummer, you can trust that this drum will deliver exceptional performance every time.

Pros:

• Portable and lightweight design
• Easy to tune
• Produces deep, resonant tones

Cons:

• Limited color options available

With its impressive sound quality, compact size, and lightweight design, the BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum is a fantastic choice for any drummer. Whether you want to explore the rhythms of West Africa or simply enjoy playing a unique instrument, this drum will exceed your expectations.

Carved Elephant Djembe Drum – 8 Inch

The Djembe Drum Carved Bongo African inspired music, also a unique gifting idea, is designed primarily for music lovers and those who appreciate African-inspired decor. It is suitable for both beginners and experienced drummers.

We love this Djembe Drum for its stunning carved design and its versatility as a musical instrument and home decor piece. The intricate carvings of an abstract elephant, giraffe, and turtle give it a unique and eye-catching appearance.

The Djembe Drum Carved Bongo African inspired music is hand-carved from solid Suwar Raintree wood by master artisans. Each drum is meticulously crafted and showcases a distinct carving style, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind. The use of unbleached cattle hide gives the drum a sharp sound quality, and it is attached to the drum head using a steel ring and low stretch rope to ensure crisp and sharp tones.

Apart from its remarkable musical qualities, this Djembe Drum also serves as a stunning decor piece. Its elegant design can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any space. Whether it is used as a standalone decorative item, a plant stand, or incorporated into a larger sculpture, it adds a touch of cultural richness to any environment.

The Djembe Drum Carved Bongo African inspired music exhibits outstanding craftsmanship and attention to detail. The combination of high-quality Suwar Raintree wood, unbleached cattle hide, and traditional carving techniques result in a drum that produces clear and vibrant tones. The drum’s sturdy construction ensures durability, allowing it to withstand rigorous playing and environmental conditions.

• Unique and intricate carved design

• High-quality Suwar Raintree wood construction

• Produces sharp and vibrant sounds

• Versatile as a musical instrument and home decor piece

• Suitable for beginners and experienced drummers

• The carving style may vary, making it difficult to choose a specific design

• May show natural stains due to the use of unbleached cattle hide

Simplified version: Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum, Mahogany Headliner Series, African Mali Ropes, 2-Year Warranty, Black River, Large

The Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum Circle Instrument is designed for individuals who want to learn to play percussion with no experience. It is a versatile instrument that can be used by beginners and professionals alike.

We like the Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum Circle Instrument because it allows users to create a wide range of sounds. Whether striking the center for deep bass or playing near the rim for high-pitched slap tones, this djembe offers a variety of musical possibilities. It is also great for drum circles, acoustic shows, jam sessions, and teaching students about rhythm.

This djembe is handcrafted from a single piece of solid mahogany, which ensures durability and a classic warm tone. The exterior is beautifully hand-carved, making it a stunning decorative piece for any home or studio. It comes with a goat skin rawhide head, which produces clear and resonant tones. The West African Mali Weave rope tuning system holds a long-lasting pitch, and the drum comes pre-stretched for optimal sound quality right out of the box. With a 12″ wide and 24″ tall shell, this djembe is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

The Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum Circle Instrument boasts exceptional quality. It is made from sustainable materials and crafted with expertise by a family-owned musical instrument manufacturer established in Germany since 1951. Meinl’s dedication to delivering the finest quality is evident in this handmade djembe.

Some advantages of the Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum Circle Instrument include its versatility in creating different sounds, its durable construction, and its visually appealing design. However, it may be quite heavy for some users, weighing approximately 15.4 lbs.

The Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum Circle Instrument is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn percussion or expand their musical capabilities. With its high-quality construction, wide range of sounds, and striking appearance, this djembe is sure to impress both beginners and professionals.

Hand Carved Professional Djembe Drum with Goat Skin Head – West African Style Tambourine, Bongo, Percussion Instrument (Black Clouds)

The BORIYAM Djembe Drum is primarily used for professional African drumming. With its high-quality craftsmanship and authentic design, it is ideal for musicians and enthusiasts who want to experience the rich and vibrant sound of West African percussion instruments.

We love the BORIYAM Djembe Drum because of its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Hand-carved and hand-painted, each drum is unique and showcases traditional cultural elements. This not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also stimulates the music interest of beginners, making it a versatile instrument for various skill levels.

The BORIYAM Djembe Drum is a professionally hand-carved instrument that captures the essence of West African style tambourine, bongo, and percussion instruments. It stands at 15.5 inches high and 7.8 inches wide, offering a comfortable playing experience for both beginners and professionals.

The key feature of this drum is its premium construction. The drum head is made of real old goat leather, which enhances the sound quality. The drum body is crafted from mahogany wood that has been aged for over 35 years, resulting in high hardness and density. This craftsmanship ensures that the drum resonates well, producing a clear and translucent sound.

Additionally, the non-elastic mountaineering tension rope used to lock the drum head provides strong toughness and excellent tuning effect. This guarantees pitch stability even after long-term use.

The BORIYAM Djembe Drum exemplifies top-notch quality in both design and sound. Its professional construction ensures durability and reliability, allowing musicians to enjoy its captivating sound for years to come. Whether used for jam sessions, performances, or cultural events, this drum is sure to impress with its superior quality.

Pros:

• Professional craftsmanship
• Authentic West African design
• High-quality materials
• Clear and translucent sound
• Unique hand-carved and hand-painted patterns

Cons:

• Limited availability of styles

With its outstanding qualities, the BORIYAM Djembe Drum is a fantastic choice for musicians looking to enhance their African percussion collection or beginners wanting to explore the beauty of West African music. It not only delivers exceptional sound quality but also serves as a captivating piece of art that adds an exotic touch to any musical experience.

Comparison of Specifications

Product Name	Material	Drumhead	Size	Weight	Tuning System	Unique Features
Kmise 8 Djembes	Mahogany	Goat Skin	8×16	N/A	High-strength inelastic mountaineering lanyard, ethnic style painting	Made of real Indonesian mahogany, uniform vibration transmission
Drums Djembe	N/A	Goat Skin	8×16	N/A	N/A	Rope-tuned, played with bare hands
lotmusic African Djembe	Mahogany	Goat Skin	9.5”	3.5 KG	Four-button lock ropesound	Individually handmade, carved mahogany body
Remo Djembe Drum	N/A	N/A	14″	N/A	West African Mali Weave ropes	Handmade from solid mahogany, pre-stretched ropes for instant playability
BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum	N/A	N/A	6×14	N/A	N/A	Mini drum for kids or decoration, wooden toy for djembe music
Djembe Drum Carved Bongo	N/A	N/A	8 Inch	N/A	N/A	Hand-carved, African-inspired design
Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum	Mahogany	Goat Skin	Large	N/A	West African Mali Weave ropes	Handmade from a single piece of solid mahogany, tuned and ready to play
BORIYAM Djembe Drum	N/A	Goat Skin	N/A	N/A	N/A	Professionally hand-carved, solid mahogany body

Note: Some specifications are not available in the provided information.

Conclusion

After reviewing all 8 products, it is clear that there are a variety of options when it comes to purchasing a Djembe drum. Each product has its own unique features and qualities that cater to different needs and preferences.

Kmise 8″ Djembes African Hand Drum Mahogany Standard Goat Skin Drumhead (MI3039)

This drum offers a traditional African sound with a mahogany body and goat skin drumhead. However, some users have reported issues with the durability of the drum.

Drums Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is a Rope- goat skin Covered Goblet Drum Played by Hands West Africa style (8×16)

With its larger size and authentic West African style, this drum is perfect for experienced drummers looking for a professional sound. However, the larger size may not be ideal for those looking for a portable option.

lotmusic African Djembe Drum, 9.5 ” Carved Mahogany Congo Drum, Professional Bongo Drum With Goatskin Drumhead for Adults

Perfect for professionals, this carved mahogany drum offers a professional sound and durable construction. The smaller size may not be suitable for beginners or those with larger hands.

Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum – Earth, 14″

This 14″ drum from Remo offers a deep and resonant sound perfect for any musician. However, the higher price point may be a deterrent for some.

BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum Djembe jembe is a Rope-Tuned Covered Goblet Drum Played with Bare Hands Originally from West Africa (Blue, 6×14)

This compact and portable drum is perfect for beginners and traveling musicians. However, those looking for a professional sound may find the smaller size limiting.

Djembe Drum Carved Bongo African inspired music also a unique gifting idea. Carver Abstract Elephant Giraffe Turtle. (8 Inch, Elephant)

With its unique carved design, this drum makes for a great gift or decorative piece. However, it may not be suitable for those looking for a high-quality sound.

Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum Circle Instrument, Carved Mahogany Headliner Series — NOT Made in China — African Mali Weave Ropes, 2-Year Warranty, Black River, Large (HDJ3-L)

Providing a rich and resonant sound, this hand-carved drum offers high-quality craftsmanship and durability. However, the larger size may not be suitable for beginners.

BORIYAM Djembe Drum Professionally Hand Carved, Goatskin Drum Head, From West African Style Tambourine, Bongo, Percussion (Black Clouds)

With its professionally hand-carved design, the BORIYAM Djembe drum offers excellent sound quality and visual appeal. However, the higher price point may be a deterrent for some.

Overall, the recommendation for a specific audience would depend on their specific needs and preferences.

For beginners or those looking for a portable option, the BND Drums Mini Djembe Drum or the lotmusic African Djembe Drum would be suitable choices.

For professionals or experienced drummers, the Remo DJ-0014-05 Mondo Djembe Drum or the Meinl Percussion Djembe Hand Drum would be recommended.

For those looking for a unique gift or decorative piece, the Djembe Drum Carved Bongo or the BORIYAM Djembe Drum would be excellent choices.

It is important for individuals to consider their budget, skill level, and personal preferences when selecting a Djembe drum.