A Guide to Choosing Your Ideal Instrument When You Buy Handpans Online

The warm, resonant tones of a handpan have a way of pulling you in. Whether you’ve stumbled upon one during a street performance or heard it in a meditative playlist, there’s a good chance you’re now considering owning one. And with the growing number of makers and options available, the most convenient way to do that is to buy handpans online. But how do you choose the right one?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know before making that purchase—from scales and materials to craftsmanship and shipping—so you can confidently find the handpan that speaks to you.

What Is a Handpan, and Why Does It Matter Which One You Pick?

A handpan is a steel, UFO-shaped percussion instrument that produces melodic, soothing tones. Played with your hands, it’s known for its deep emotional resonance and harmonic overtones.

But not all handpans are created equal. Each one is tuned to a specific scale, with different sound characteristics, number of notes, and tonal moods. The right instrument can help you express yourself or get into a meditative flow; the wrong one might sit unused on a shelf.

When you buy online, you’re making your decision without touching or hearing the instrument in person. That’s why knowing what to look for is essential.

Start with the Scale: What Mood Do You Want to Create?

Handpans are tuned to specific scales, and each scale creates a particular emotional texture. Ask yourself: What kind of mood or sound are you drawn to?

Here are a few popular options:

• D Minor (Celtic or Kurd): Deep, introspective, and meditative. Great for beginners and widely loved.
• Integral or Magic Voyage (in D or C): Warm, mysterious, and emotionally rich.
• Hijaz (Middle Eastern flavor): Exotic, with a slightly dramatic or cinematic vibe.
• Major scales: Happy, uplifting, and bright—perfect if you’re looking for a cheerful sound.
• Pygmy or Low F: Deep, earthy, grounding—often used for sound healing.

If you’re new to handpans, starting with a D Minor scale is a safe bet. It’s versatile and commonly used, meaning you’ll find more learning resources and compatible instruments if you plan to jam with others later.

How Many Notes Do You Need?

Most handpans come with 8 to 10 notes, including a central “ding” note. Beginners often find 8-note instruments easier to get started with. More notes expand your musical range, but they can also feel overwhelming at first.

Here’s a rough guide:

• 8 Notes: Simpler, easier to navigate, more affordable.
• 9–10 Notes: Offers greater musical variety; ideal for intermediate players.
• 11+ Notes: Great for advanced players or those wanting to explore more complex compositions.

Pro tip: Don’t chase the number of notes right away. Focus on how comfortable and intuitive the layout feels. Your fingers should flow naturally over the surface.

Material and Build Quality: Stainless Steel vs. Nitrided Steel

When buying a handpan online, the material affects not just sound, but also how durable the instrument is and how much maintenance it needs.

Stainless Steel

• Pros: More resistant to rust, has a longer sustain (notes ring out longer), less maintenance required.
• Cons: Sometimes brighter in tone; some players prefer a darker sound.

Nitrided Steel

• Pros: Traditional material, warm and earthy tone, shorter sustain (which some prefer).
• Cons: Need regular oiling and more careful storage to avoid rust.

If you live in a humid or coastal area, stainless steel might be the better choice. Either way, invest in a proper case and silica packets to keep it dry.

Consider the Maker: Reputation and Craftsmanship Matter

The handpan community is tight-knit, and quality craftsmanship is everything. Some makers have built global reputations for consistency, tuning accuracy, and beautiful finishes.

Here’s how to evaluate a maker before you buy:

• Listen to samples: Don’t rely only on written descriptions. Most makers share audio or video clips—listen with headphones.
• Check reviews or forums: Communities like Handpan.org or Facebook groups often discuss specific makers.
• Look for guarantees or tuning services: Some makers offer tuning adjustments or touch-ups after purchase.

Avoid factory-made or mass-produced handpans that don’t name a maker. These are often cheaper but may arrive out of tune, poorly shaped, or lacking resonance.

Budget: What Should You Expect to Spend?

High-quality handpans typically range between $1,000 to $3,000 USD, depending on the maker, number of notes, and material.

Here’s a general idea:

• $1,000–$1,500: Entry-level handpans from smaller makers or simpler builds.
• $1,500–$2,200: Mid-range, often handmade with good tuning.
• $2,200+: Premium instruments from well-known makers, sometimes with more notes or custom designs.

If a listing seems too good to be true—say, $400 for a new instrument—it probably is. Many low-priced handpans online are factory stamped and may sound dull or even unpleasant.

Shipping and Return Policies

When buying online, make sure the seller offers:

• Insured shipping: These instruments are fragile and need proper protection.
• Tracking and secure packaging: A good maker usually ships in a hard case or custom foam packaging.
• Return policy: Some makers allow returns or adjustments if the instrument doesn’t meet your expectations.

Also, check if the seller ships internationally, and be aware of customs duties if you’re buying from abroad.

Accessories You Might Need

A handpan by itself is great, but a few extras can make your experience smoother:

• Hard case or soft gig bag: Essential for protection and travel.
• Stand or lap support ring: Useful for home play or performance.
• Microfiber cloth & rust-prevention oil: Especially important for nitrided steel instruments.
• Recording equipment: If you plan to share your music, a small field recorder or condenser mic helps.

Some sellers include accessories in the bundle, so factor that into your budget.

Final Tips for Buying a Handpan Online

• Trust your ears: If a sample resonates with you emotionally, that’s usually a sign it’s the right instrument.
• Ask questions: A reputable maker will gladly answer queries about tuning, maintenance, or sound samples.
• Avoid impulse buys: Take your time, especially if this is your first handpan.

And most importantly, don’t stress too much about perfection. The beauty of the handpan lies in its imperfections, and your connection to the instrument will deepen over time.

Ready to Buy Your First Handpan?

Buying a handpan online opens up a world of possibilities—but it helps to know what you’re looking for. From scale and number of notes to material and maker reputation, every detail shapes your playing experience. Do a bit of research, trust your gut, and you’ll find the one that feels just right in your hands.

Do you have an eye for a particular model or maker? Drop their name in the comments—we’d love to hear which sound moved you the most.