Best Dulcimers of 2026

Nicole Kim Avatar
Nicole Kim
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Dulcimers are a type of stringed musical instrument that have been used for centuries. They are known for their unique sound and are popular in folk music. Dulcimers come in various shapes and sizes, but they all have a long, narrow body and a fretted fingerboard. They are played by striking the strings with a small hammer, called a dulcimer hammer, which produces a soft, mellow sound. Dulcimers are easy to learn and are a great option for beginners or anyone looking to add a new instrument to their collection. They are also a great choice for anyone who enjoys playing traditional or folk music.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

String Swing CC01D-BW Cover #TOP 1
String Swing CC01D-BW
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Roosebeck Mountain Dulcimer Noter Set Cover #TOP 2
Roosebeck Mountain Dulcimer Noter Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
GHS Dulcimer Sig Bronze Squeakless Strings Mixolydian Tuning Cover #TOP 3
GHS Dulcimer Sig Bronze Squeakless Strings Mixolydian Tuning
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Dulcimers

#TOP 1

String Swing CC01D-BW

4354426522
Black
String Swing CC01D-BW Cover
Dulcimer Hanger Wall Mount Hook by String Swing - Black Wanut CC01D-BW

Hang your dulcimer securely and beautifully with the String Swing Dulcimer Hanger. This hanger is perfect for dulcimers with scroll type headstocks, providing the most secure and trusted mounting solution. The hanger is made from responsibly harvested solid North American Black Walnut hardwood, ensuring both durability and an attractive appearance. The hand welded and powder coated steel construction, along with the heavy-duty rubber, ensures that this hanger will last a lifetime. Made in the USA for over 30 years, you can trust the quality craftsmanship of this product. Please note that this hanger may not fit all dulcimers due to variations in headstock shape.

What We Like
Secure Mounting
Durable Materials
Attractive Appearance
#TOP 2

Roosebeck Mountain Dulcimer Noter Set

FBA_DMNTR
Sheesham
Roosebeck Mountain Dulcimer Noter Set Cover
Noter for the Mountain Dulcimer

The Roosebeck Dulcimer Noter offers a solid rosewood noter designed for smooth and precise playing on your mountain dulcimer. The sturdy wood helps you easily press the strings, improving your control and comfort. Along with the noter, you get a nylon pick that is gentle on the strings yet durable, making strumming or picking enjoyable and less tiring. The set is crafted to be easy to hold, so you can focus on your music without awkward grips. Overall, this combination makes playing your mountain dulcimer more fun and accessible, especially for beginners or casual players.

What We Like
Durable rosewood noter
Gentle yet strong nylon pick
Comfortable to hold
Enhances playing control
#TOP 3

GHS Dulcimer Sig Bronze Squeakless Strings Mixolydian Tuning

GHS D 20 MBS
Bronze
GHS Dulcimer Sig Bronze Squeakless Strings Mixolydian Tuning Cover
GHS Dulcimer Sig Bronze Squeakless String Mixolydian Tunning for Musical Instrument

The GHS Dulcimer Squeakless Strings are designed specifically for dulcimer players looking for reliable, high-quality strings. Made by the trusted GHS brand, these strings offer a squeakless experience, making your playing smoother and more enjoyable without unwanted noise. They come in a bronze mixolydian tuning, which is ideal if you want to explore unique musical styles or traditional dulcimer sounds. Being part of the stringed instrument category ensures these strings are tailored to fit your dulcimer perfectly, giving you better sound clarity and performance during practice or performances.

What We Like
Squeakless design
Bronze mixolydian tuning
Made for dulcimers
Trusted GHS brand
#TOP 4

Roosebeck Mountain Dulcimer Noter and Pick

DMNTP
Roosebeck Mountain Dulcimer Noter and Pick Cover
Roosebeck Noter and Pick for Mountain Dulcimer

The Roosebeck Dulcimer Noter Pick is designed to make playing your mountain dulcimer easier and more enjoyable. The specially crafted noter and pick help you play smoothly without much effort, perfect for both beginners and experienced players. The noter is slim and comfortable to hold, so your fingers won’t tire even during long sessions. Made to fit any mountain dulcimer, this set blends well with your playing style, giving you flexibility. With quality construction, it’s built to last, so you can rely on it for many musical moments to come.

What We Like
Easy play design
Comfortable grip
Durable build
Universal fit
#TOP 5

John Pearse Appalachian Dulcimer Strings

5000
Bronze
John Pearse Appalachian Dulcimer Strings Cover
John Pearse Strings Appalachian Dulcimer Set

The John Pearse Dulcimer Strings offer a bright and clear sound thanks to their 80/20 bronze winding, making your music stand out with brilliant tones. These strings come with loop ends, which makes them easy to install and secure, saving you time and effort. Made in the USA, you can trust their quality and craftsmanship. Inspired by bluegrass musicians and created by the well-known guitarist John Pearse, these strings are designed to bring authentic sound and durability to your dulcimer playing experience.

What We Like
Bright, clear tone
Easy-to-install loop ends
High-quality USA-made
Bluegrass-inspired design
#TOP 6

Roosebeck Lacewood Teardrop Dulcimer Hammers

DHAHTL
Brown
Roosebeck Lacewood Teardrop Dulcimer Hammers Cover
Dulcimer Hammers, Teardrop, Lacewood

The Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers are crafted wooden tools designed specifically for the American Hammered Dulcimer. Each pair measures about 8 1/2 inches long, providing a comfortable grip and precise control while you play. One side of each hammer features soft leather pads, which help produce a gentle, mellow sound and protect your instrument’s strings from wear. These hammers come brand new and are shipped with insurance, ensuring your purchase arrives safely and ready to use. With these hammers, you can enjoy a reliable and enjoyable playing experience every time.

What We Like
Wooden construction
Leather pads for sound control
Comfortable 8.5-inch length
Insured shipping
Brand new condition
#TOP 7

Jaromin Mountain Dulcimer KIT

Jaromin Mountain Dulcimer KIT Cover
Mountain Dulcimer KIT All WOOD Build-it-Yourself 4-String Dulcimer with CHERRY neck. FUN and EASY to Build and PLAY! Great for Travel, GIFT, Group or Homeschool Activity - DIY Kit - Made in USA

Jaromin Dulcimer Kit is a build-it-yourself 4-string dulcimer with a cherry neck. The Baltic birch plywood body and cherry neck make it durable and stylish. The press-fit body allows for easy assembly without needing clamps, making it a fun hands-on activity for kids and adults. With 16 frets and a double melody string, you can create a fuller sound. Its small and lightweight design is perfect for travel and storage. This DIY kit includes all hardware, printed instructions, and a pick for a complete experience.

What We Like
Durable Baltic Birch Plywood
Easy Assembly
Compact for Travel
#TOP 8

Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Plain Sheesham Pair

DHAH
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Plain Sheesham Pair Cover
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers Plain Sheesham - Pair

The Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers offer a great choice for players of the American Hammered Dulcimer. These wooden hammers come in a pair, giving you everything you need to start playing or to replace worn-out tools. Made from plain wood without leather pads, they provide a natural feel and sound that many musicians appreciate. Plus, your purchase is shipped with insurance, ensuring it arrives safely and giving you peace of mind. Since these hammers are brand new, you can expect top quality and durability right from the start.

What We Like
Wooden construction
Pair included
No leather pads
Insured shipping
Brand new condition
#TOP 9

Roosebeck Deluxe Noter and Pick Walnut

4354710623
Walnut
Roosebeck Deluxe Noter and Pick Walnut Cover
Roosebeck Deluxe Noter and Pick for Mountain Dulcimer - Walnut

The Roosebeck Dulcimer Noter is designed to enhance your playing experience with the Mountain Dulcimer. Measuring about 4 inches in length and just over a third of an inch in diameter, it offers a comfortable grip that fits well in your hand, making it easy to control. This size also makes the noter easy to maneuver, allowing you to play with precision and ease. Its design is intended to be both practical and enjoyable to use, helping you get the most out of your dulcimer sessions.

What We Like
Comfortable size
Easy to hold
Precise control
Designed for dulcimers
#TOP 10

Roosebeck Lacewood Heart Dulcimer Hammers

DHAHHL
Wood Tone
Roosebeck Lacewood Heart Dulcimer Hammers Cover
Dulcimer Hammers, Hearts, Lacewood

The Roosebeck Heart Dulcimer Hammers are a pair of beautifully crafted 8.5-inch hammers designed for playing dulcimers. Their unique heart shape provides a comfortable grip, making it easier for you to control your playing. One side of each hammer features soft leather pads, which help produce a gentle, warm tone and protect your instrument from unwanted wear. Made from sturdy lacewood, these hammers combine durability with an attractive natural finish, ensuring they not only perform well but also look great in your hands. These hammers are perfect for dulcimer players seeking both style and functionality.

What We Like
Heart-shaped design
8.5-inch length
Leather pads for soft striking
Lacewood durability
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 2 types of dulcimers?

There are two main types of dulcimers: the hammered dulcimer and the mountain dulcimer. The hammered dulcimer is played by striking the strings with small hammers, while the mountain dulcimer is played by plucking or strumming the strings with fingers or a pick. Both types have their own unique sound and playing techniques.

2. Is a dulcimer easier than a guitar?

Yes, playing the dulcimer is generally considered easier than playing the guitar. It is easier to play chords on the dulcimer, and even beginners can learn to play melodies, harmonies, and simple songs. Advanced players can finger-pick complex arrangements and play various genres of music, including classical, folk, and rock.

3. Is it hard to play the dulcimer?

The dulcimer is a great choice for beginners as it is one of the easiest stringed instruments to learn. However, mastering the dulcimer can be challenging and will require practice and dedication. As you progress, the dulcimer will continue to provide new challenges and opportunities for growth as a musician.

4. How long does it take to learn dulcimer?

The time it takes to learn the dulcimer varies from person to person. Some people may be able to jam with others after three months of practice, while others may still rely on tabs after six months. It is an individual journey, and consistent practice and dedication are key to progressing and becoming proficient on the dulcimer.

Editor's Notes

During our dulcimer research, we found 24 dulcimer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,020 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dulcimers list. We found that most customers choose dulcimers with an average price of $21.83.

The dulcimers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dulcimers, including String Swing, Roosebeck, GHS Strings, John Pearse, Jaromin. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 120 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Nicole Kim Avatar

Nicole Kim has been a music teacher and a private piano instructor for six years now. She is a very talented musician who plays piano to a high standard and won several awards in international piano competitions. Lately, she has been sharing her music expertise online, giving incredible tips on how to select the right musical instruments.