Metronome
A device that produces a steady, adjustable-tempo click or beat, used to develop and check a consistent sense of rhythm and timing during practice — a different tool from a tuner, which checks pitch rather than timing.
Who should choose the metronome
Available as standalone electronic devices (Korg is a widely cited example brand) or combined into a single tuner/metronome unit; also widely available as free or low-cost smartphone apps, though a dedicated device avoids phone notifications interrupting a practice session.
Buying guidance for beginners and level progression
Any basic metronome works for a beginner, whether a dedicated device, a combined tuner/metronome unit, or a phone app — the habit of practicing with one regularly matters far more than which specific product is chosen.
Common problems
- Struggling to stay with the beat is a normal early-practice challenge — starting at a slower tempo than the target and gradually increasing it is a standard, effective technique.
Related instruments
Frequently asked questions
This FAQ reflects our own desk research. We'll add an "expert reviewed" label once a named, credentialed reviewer has been engaged for this subject.
No — a tuner checks pitch (is the note in tune), while a metronome checks timing (is the rhythm steady). Many affordable combined units do both.
A phone app works fine for most beginners — a dedicated device’s main advantage is avoiding phone notifications interrupting a practice session.