Top 10 Best Accordion On The Market 2023 Reviews

Accordions are instruments steeped deep in rich history and culture. Though these instruments are ancient, in recent times, they are have been witnessing comeback. Thanks to their rich sounds, these instruments are becoming popular in jazz as well as other American genres of music.

Also, there are many schools that teach accordion these days as part of their curriculum. Thankfully, and it’s a pretty easy instrument to learn. So, adults as well as young kids who pick up the accordion can boast decent accordion skills in weeks with some diligence.

Today, we’re checking out ten of the best accordions in the market. And because accordions are a bit elusive to many people, we also have a buying guide. Here we show you what accordions really are, how they work, and how to get the best accordion.

Top 10 Best Accordion On The Market 2023 Reviews

Name	Type	Key	Treble	Bass	Color
Best Choice Hohner Compadre G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion View Price	Type Diatonic	Key G/C/F	Treble 31	Bass 12	Color Black
Also Great Hohner Panther G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion View Price	Type Diatonic	Key G/C/F	Treble 31	Bass 12	Color Matte black
Also Great Hohner Compadre GCF Accordion View Price	Type Diatonic	Key G/C/F	Treble 31	Bass 12	Color Red
Also Great Hohner CAJUNIV 10-Key Accordion View Price	Type Not specified	Key C	Treble 10	Bass 2	Color Natural wooden
Also Great Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Black Diatonic Accordion View Price	Type Diatonic	Key SOL G/C/F	Treble 3 rows of 31	Bass 2 rows of 8	Color Black
Also Great Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Blue Diatonic Accordion View Price	Type Diatonic	Key SOL G/C/F	Treble 3 rows of 31	Bass 2 rows of 8	Color Translucent blue
Also Great Roland FR-1X V-Accordion Lite View Price	Type V-Accordion	Key Starts at B	Treble 26 keys (right hand)	Bass 72	Color Black
Also Great Alacran Accordion View Price	Type Not specified	Key G/C/F	Treble Not specified	Bass Not specified	Color Red
Also Great Woodstock Kid’s Accordion View Price	Type Kids accordion	Key C	Treble Not specified	Bass Not specified	Color Red and Blue
Also Great Schylling Kids Accordion View Price	Type Kids accordion	Key C	Treble Not specified	Bass Not specified	Color Red and Blue

1 Hohner Compadre G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion

The Hohner Compadre G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion is an exceptional accordion. And there are so many ways this stands out from the competition. It does cost a small fortune though coming at a price just a couple of tens short of a $1000. Nonetheless, the quality here is undeniable.

It comes with a stylish design in 3 rows. And with its black finish, this accordion looks elite and attractive at the same time. It’s definitely an accordion anyone would be proud to own.

Still on the construction of this accordion, it comes with 31 treble keys and 12 bass keys. These keys are quite durable and do not irritate the fingers. This is a testimony to the exceptional construction methods Hohner employed while making this accordion with its celluloid fingerboard.

Accordions may not be well known for packing a lot of volume but that changes with the Hohner Compadre G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion. Its redesigned grille and high pressure valves work together to give this accordion its improved, interference-free volume.

At 11 pounds, the Hohner Compadre G/C/F is a pretty lightweight instrument which makes it ideal for playing for extended periods at a stretch. It also makes travel a lot more convenient as well. And yeah, there are straps too. So, they also help.

Coming fully assembled, all you have to do when this accordion gets to you is to begin playing. There’s a gig bag to protect your accordion and ensure it remains in mint condition.

Lastly, this is a low maintenance instrument. So, you’re going to enjoy using this, definitely.

Our rating: (5 / 5)

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2 Hohner Panther G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion

The Hohner Panther G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion is another quality instrument from the masters themselves – Hohner. It’s great for both beginners and professional users.

It’s not as expensive as the Hohner Compadre but compared to other accordion models, it is still a tad bit high end. Well, Hohner isn’t exactly a cheap brand. But for sure, they are A-list when it comes to musical instruments. So, their prices are not a surprise.

This accordion comes fully setup. So, even if you’re new to the accordion, you can begin playing this right out of the box. It requires no setup and fortunately, there’s a method book as part of the accessories. So, you have some guidance.

Just like its Compadre brother, this accordion is pretty stylish. The materials here are obviously high quality which contributes to the appeal of this instrument. They are also quite durable which is why we’re confident that this accordion will see many years of use.

The Hohner Panther is low-maintenance. So, there isn’t a lot of work involved in keeping this straight. There’s no gig bag here though. So, you might want to improvise to protect your instrument from scratches, bumps, and whatnot.

Just like the Compadre, this comes with 31 treble and 12 bass keys which are smooth and playable by people of any skill level. Its 3-row design also makes it really convenient to move around the accordion and reach buttons pretty easily.

This accordion also comes with several add-on accessories which we found useful. We still find it quite peculiar though that this does not come with a gig bag. Anyway, with the purchase of this accordion, you also get straps, cleaning cloth and a Hohner’s method book. All on the house!

Our rating: (3.7 / 5)

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3 Hohner Compadre GCF Accordion

Standing out in red, we have yet another Hohner Compadre on review. There isn’t much of a difference between both accordion models. They both sell for the same price. However, the red color of this model makes it even more appealing and charming.

It comes with 31 treble keys and 12 bass keys just like all the accordions we’ve seen so far. So, it’s great for all kinds of music from jazz to classical to soul. The celluloid fingerboard, and the wider, redesigned grille improves the air intake on this accordion. This, in turn, also improves sound projection.

The Hohner Compadre is made from high quality plastic. So, even though it costs a pretty penny, there’s the assurance that you won’t be needing another one many years down the line. Its sleeves are also quite durable. No matter how regularly you use this accordion, it won’t let you down.

We love the fact that this accordion is also quite easy to play. The number of buttons on a regular accordion is enough to intimidate anyone. Hence, it’s a good thing that Hohner organizes the buttons here, making them a lot easier to use.

The buttons also come recessed and smooth. This is important to prevent irritation especially when you’re playing for long.

And for those who will be playing for long in front of an audience, the high-pressure system this accordion boasts projects sound wonderfully well.

We also love the adjustable strap and bass strap on this accordion. It makes it way easier to carry this accordion conveniently. In fact, you’ll find it easy to carry this for long without any issues, although, it’s a tad bit heavier than the other Hohner Compadre.

Our rating: (4.5 / 5)

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4 Hohner CAJUNIV 10-Key Accordion

The Hohner CAJUNIV 10-Key Accordion is a much smaller instrument than the others we’ve seen so far. But this size is perfect for certain styles of music like Zydeco and Cajun. The number of keys here also makes this accordion super convenient for beginners as well.

So, are you a beginner looking to try out the accordion? Don’t hesitate to try out the Hohner CAJUNIV 10-Key Accordion. It’s also a great instrument for hobbyists too. Ten treble keys, two bass keys, plus a key of C. You’re definitely going to enjoy the experience you get from this accordion,

An instrument is only as good as the quality of sound it delivers. If that is true, then the quality of the Hohner CAJUNIV 10-Key Accordion more than impresses us. It’s a tad high end for a 10-key accordion. Nonetheless, it sounds terrific. Its bellows also ensure that sound is beautiful and loud too.

Now, this time, instead of plastic, Hohner decides to go with wood. This does not only add to the beauty of the accordion. It also improves durability as well. Also, let’s not forget the mother of pearl inlay which makes this look even more stylish.

So, yeah, this accordion is top shelf. You’ll be proud to flaunt this.

Like we mentioned, the Hohner CAJUNIV is really playable which is one of the reasons it comes recommended for beginners. Its ergonomic buttons are also another reason.

Another reason we love it is because it’s low-maintenance which makes it easy and convenient to use.

For transport, this is a small instrument, so it’s easy to move around. It’s also lightweight too. In fact, it’s our lightest accordion so far. And yeah, it comes with a gig bag and straps.

Our rating: (4 / 5)

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5 Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Black Diatonic Accordion

We really do not understand the big idea behind the name “Directly Cheap”. Sounds a little funny but hey, we’re not here to discuss brand names. We’re here to talk about its accordion – the Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Black Diatonic Accordion.

Now, this accordion kinda looks somewhat complex but it’s actually quite easy to us once you get the hang of it. Well, there is a 2 month free lesson program which you get when you buy this accordion. So, if you’re not getting it, that should help.

We absolutely love the design of this accordion and players who are into the old world thingy would also love this accordion for its looks. It’s really attractive, the box too.

The manufacturers here simplified the button configuration of this accordion to make it a bit easier to play. This accordion comes with 3 rows of 31 treble buttons and two rows of 8 buttons as well. All the buttons function properly.

Plus, with bisronic valves, this accordion sucks in such large air volumes. So, of course, it impacts the quality and volume of sound this accordion delivers, making it super impressive.

The Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Black Diatonic Accordion is plastic. But this is quite high quality so there’s no doubt about how durable this instrument will be.

This instrument comes with back straps for a convenient carriage. Plus, the case is hard shell so you can trust it to protect your accordion from literally anything. We’ve already mentioned the two month free lesson plan too. So, yeah, the manufacturers here included pretty useful add-ons here.

Our rating: (3.9 / 5)

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6 Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Blue Diatonic Accordion

The Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Blue Diatonic Accordion is pretty much the same with the last accordion we just reviewed. In this case though, the accordion comes in a translucent blue color which is also quite interesting. Seems Directly Cheap has a knack for exotic designs.

We might not spend so much time reviewing this product as it’s virtually the same as the last.

However, we would easily recommend this accordion to beginners for many reasons. For one, it’s more affordable than other Hohner accordions we met in our reviews before. So, it comes within the easy reach of most.

It’s also great to know that this is playable so both beginners and professionals would enjoy using this. Its color though makes it more suited to people who love to be a little loud with their color choices.

In summary, everything you loved about the Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Black Diatonic Accordion, you’ll also find here. It’s a great accordion all in all.

Our rating: (3.9 / 5)

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7 Roland FR-1X V-Accordion Lite

The Roland FR-1X V-to a whole new level. This accordion packs a lot of features almost like a normal Roland piano. Only this time, it’s miniaturized. Anyway, let’s check out this accordion and see why it’s on our list today.

First of all, it looks sleek and for all the features it packs, at 20 pounds, you won’t be wrong to call this lightweight. It’s the most advanced accordion on our review after all.

This accordion gets you access to an impressive range of accordion sounds. Plus, you’ll also be able to achieve a whole lot of effects here such as reverb, chorus, and even rotary organ sounds. We told you, it’s just like a regular piano.

And there are many more sounds you can achieve with this accordion such as woodwinds, drums, brass and much more.

Now, this accordion comes with onboard speakers. This allows you to project your sounds anywhere anytime. And when you need to achieve a quiet practice, you can always use your headphones.

Other reasons we love this accordion is because it comes with a fast response, high sensitivity, and MIDI connectivity. Tie this up with an attractive price and you get why this accordion is so awesome.

It’s a great accordion for students and pros alike. It also will definitely work for different genres of music such as rock, folk, zydeco, blues, etc.

Our rating: (3.5 / 5)

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8 Alacran Accordion

The Alacran Accordion is one of the easiest accordions you’d ever play and that’s no exaggeration. Its buttons are super soft which makes it pleasurable to your fingers as you play. It also means that you’ll be able to play this accordion for long periods at a stretch without feeling tired.

Another thing we love about this instrument is that it does not make any noise. This means that nothing will interfere with the beautiful Italian sound this accordion produces. You’ll enjoy the quality of sound here for sure.

In fact, in some quarters, some people actually prefer the buttons on the Alacran Accordion than the ones on the Hohner Panther Accordion.

The hand strap on this accordion are adjustable which is great and also makes this accordion a lot easy to carry. This accordion also comes with a button latch which you use for the release holders.

Its lovely red color is another really attractive feature of this accordion. It adds to the charm and attractiveness of this instrument.

And as for accessories, this accordion comes with a gig bag. With this bag you’ll be able to protect your accordion from scratches.

Our rating: (4 / 5)

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Best Accordions For Kids

9 Woodstock Kid’s Accordion

The Woodstock Kid’s Accordion is one of the best selling kid accordions on the market. It’s attractive, kid-friendly and top quality. If your kid needs a hobby, then maybe you should consider getting them this accordion.

This accordion makes a perfect gift for any child you love. They will enjoy how easy it is to play. And trust us when we say this accordion is sure to keep them happy and engaged for as long as possible.

Although it’s more like a kid’s toy, it is still made from high quality materials. So, you can trust that this will last. Even with all the abuse that kids can bring, this accordion will stand up quite well to it and come out straight.

Also, this accordion comes in a weight that’s perfect for kids to carry conveniently.

Lastly, it’s sub-$50 price tag is also attractive. It’s an investment that will definitely not go to waste.

Our rating: (4.2 / 5)

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10 Schylling Kids Accordion

Here’s another easy to play, inexpensive kids accordion, this time from Schylling. It’s a great place to begin learning the accordion for kids. Adults could also try it as it fits nicely in an adult’s palm.

It is super compact and well built with fewer keys so it’s easier for kids to play. But hey, it’s still possible for you to play some pretty complex pieces on this accordion. And guess what? It sounds nice.

Now, because you need a certain level of arm strength and finger coordination to play this, it might not be best for a younger child. So, you might want to leave this for the older kids instead.

This accordion is the diatonic type on the key of C. Now, you might not be able to play all kinds of songs using this accordion. But you’ll definitely be able to play most simple songs like folk tunes, carols, hymns, and other children songs.

All in all, we praise Schylling for giving us a quality kids accordion that adults too can jam on in some cases. Lovely product!

Our rating: (4.1 / 5)

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Best Accordion Buying Guide

The accordion is super easy to learn which is one of the reasons a lot of people love it. It’s also an easy instrument for kids to pick even at a really young age.

And so, if you’re a beginner looking for an accordion or you’re parent looking for a fun hobby for your kid, the accordion is here for you. In the next few subs, we will be showing you how to land the best accordion for you. Come with us.

Types of Accordions

Piano Accordion

There are different types and models when it comes to accordions. However, the most popular type you find in the United States is the piano accordion. Like the name implies, the piano accordion looks like a piano. It has keys just like you have on a keyboard and it’s also playable with the right hand.

That’s not to say your left hand would be idle though. The left hand plays certain keys which are called the “bass keys”. These bass keys give the bass accompaniment while playing the accordion.

This should explain why you see some accordion models described as having ”x” number of keys and ”x” number of bass keys.

As you can see, hence, accordions are pretty versatile instruments.

Diatonic Accordions

With diatonic accordions, there are buttons on either side of the instrument which makes it possible for you to play the accordion with both hands simultaneously.

Diatonic models usually come with bellows which are important to how the accordion sounds when you strike the keys. Depending on how you play, the bellows could either be pulled or pushed. This, in turn, causes a change in pitch of the note as you play them.

Chromatic Accordions

Piano accordions are to America as chromatic accordions are to Europe. The chromatic accordion is the most popular type of accordion there is in Europe.

These accordions resemble diatonic accordions in that both sides – the treble and bass – have buttons. However, they are a bit more complex in that they also come with flats, sharps and naturals.

Concertinas

Concertinas are not as popular as other regular types of accordions. Normally, you’d hang a regular accordion over your shoulder using straps. But with concertinas, you hold them with your two hands.

Things To Consider

Now, before getting an accordion, there are several factors you need to consider. Here are some of them.

Weight

One of the first things you want to consider when getting an accordion is the weight.

Remember that you’ll be hanging the accordion on your shoulders. You don’t want something that begins to feel like you’re carrying a sack of bricks after a while. Not forgetting that an unduly heavy accordion will impact on your performance negatively.

And of course, for kids, you won’t want to get an accordion that they can’t lift. Fortunately, many brands have their own kid-friendly accordion models. These are usually miniaturized accordions and provide a pretty good alternative to a regular sized accordion for children.

Size

Like all instruments, the accordions are of different sizes. And these sizes vary across models. The size of an accordion actually depends on the number of keys on the accordion.

Size is super important because it determines how comfortable you’ll be holding and playing the accordion. Size is also important to the genre of music you play.

For instance, 48 and 72 key accordions are great for folk music. However, if your genre requires a much wider register of notes, then you should be aiming for an accordion with 120 bass keys.

Piano accordions are the largest type of accordions there are with 120 bass keys and 41 treble keys. These keys are divided into 6 columns and each column has about 20 buttons. Of course, this many keys would need enough space.

Kid models though can have as few as 10 keys.

Extras

Accordions do not really need a lot of accessories. However, you might want to consider getting straps and a carrying case.

If you’re getting for a child, then nice additions could be a songbook, and a set of instructions.

Conclusion

It’s easy to see which accordion is in this review but just in case you missed it the Hohner Compadre G/C/F 3-Row Diatonic Accordion. It’s a bit high end, but it’s currently the best accordion in the market right now.

Now, in case the almost $1000 price tag is a bit too high for you, then try the Directly Cheap Full Size 31 Button Black Diatonic Accordion.

Also, if you want something with a bit more advanced features, perhaps you’re a music producer, the Roland FR-1X V-Accordion Lite serves.

Lastly, we found the Woodstock Kid’s Accordion to be the best kids accordion in the market. It’s easier to play than the Schylling Kids Accordion that’s better suited to older kids. Plus, it’s affordable too.