10 Best Cajons
for June 2023

MOOZ's editors select recommendations independently. Purchases made through our links may earn us commissions.

Are you looking to add a new element to your music performances? Cajons might just be what you're searching for! These box-like percussion instruments have been hitting the music scene hard for their versatility and ability to add depth and rhythm to any performance. Whether you're a solo artist looking to add a little extra sound to your music, or a percussionist looking to expand your repertoire, cajons are a great option.

One of the most popular cajon manufacturers is Meinl. They offer a range of cajons, including the popular Jam Cajon, which is perfect for acoustic shows and jam sessions. The birch wood construction gives the cajon fantastic acoustic qualities, as well as a compact size that makes it easy to transport. Plus, with dual sets of internal fixed snare wires, you'll get the same effect as a snare drum. And if you need to amplify your sound, the rear port is the perfect spot to place a microphone.

And that's just one of the many cajons available on the market today. With various sizes, materials, and designs, there's a cajon out there for anyone. When looking to purchase a cajon, consider factors such as size, material, and warranty. You want a cajon that will not only sound great but also hold up over time. Many manufacturers offer warranties on their cajons, providing peace of mind and assurance that you'll get a quality product.

Whether you're an experienced percussionist or a beginner, a cajon is a fantastic way to add a little extra rhythm to your music. So, take a look at the 10 best cajons on the market and find the perfect one for you. From solid wood construction to unique designs, there's a cajon for everyone. So, are you ready to add a little bit of percussion to your music?

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9.9
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Meinl Cajon Box Drum with Internal Snares — MADE IN EUROPE — Baltic Birch Wood Compact Size, 2-YEAR WARRANTY, JC50LBNT

Meinl Cajon Box Drum with Internal Snares — IN MADE EUROPE — Baltic Birch Wood Compact Size

by Meinl USA L.C.
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Product Features

  • Create drum set grooves with bass and snare notes using your hands the wood playing surface has two zones for bass and snare play with your hands toward the center for deep bass or strike near the top corners with your fingers for crisp snare sounds
  • Manufacturer disclaimer typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet point or description text on this product page are a result of this sites system and are neither the fault of the manufacturer nor marketplace sellers
  • Perfect for acoustic shows and jam sessions the birch jam cajon is the perfect grab-and-go percussion instrument for singers/songwriter circles, spontaneous jam sessions, accompanying guitarists and supporting acoustic bands in coffee house settings
  • Compact size measuring 10 1/4" wide x 15" tall x 10 1/4" deep, the jam cajon is compact for easy transport and straightforward use so that anyone can sit down and play this instrument, regardless of skill level or age
  • Other items on this page we, the manufacturer, have styled like-items on this page as a way of conveniently presenting products that are frequently bought together we invite you to sort customer comments by product to help make your purchasing choice
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9.7
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Meinl Cajon Box Drum with Internal Snares and FREE Bag - MADE IN EUROPE - Baltic Birch Wood Full Size, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (BC1NTWR)

Meinl Percussion Meinl Cajon Box Drum Internal with Snares and FREE Bag

by Meinl USA L.C.
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Product Features

  • Manufacturer disclaimer typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet point or description text on this product page are a result of this sites system and are neither the fault of the manufacturer nor marketplace sellers
  • Full size measuring 12" wide x 17. 25" tall x 12" deep, anyone can sit down and play this instrument, from adults to young musicians, regardless of skill level
  • Includes free Cajon bag included free with this Cajon is a standard Cajon gig bag, which is made with heavy duty nylon and features a strong carrying grip perfect for travel and storage
  • Perfect for acoustic shows and jam sessions the birch cafe Cajon is the perfect grab-and-go percussion instrument for singers/songwriter circles, spontaneous jam sessions, accompanying guitarists and supporting acoustic bands in coffee house settings
  • Rear port for microphone placement when amplification is needed, the best spot to place a microphone is at the rear port of this Cajon this circular cutout also enhances low end bass by letting air escape the instrument as you play it
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9.2
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Meinl Cajon Box Drum, Full Size with Internal Metal Strings for Adjustable Snare Effect, Birch Wood, HCAJ1NT

Meinl Cajon Box Drum

by Meinl
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Product Features

  • Manufacturer disclaimer typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet point or description text on this product page are a result of this sites system and are neither the fault of the manufacturer nor marketplace sellers
  • 100% Baltic birch wood, full size the natural finish Baltic birch playing surface and body dishes out cutting slap tones, deep bass and responds to soft finger rolls and brush playing this full size cajon measures 11 W x 12 D x 18 H
  • Perfect for live acoustic music the Meinl Headliner String cajon is made for settings like acoustic coffee house sets, open mic nights, houses of worship and spontaneous jam sessions this cajon also performs well with a microphone in larger venues
  • Other items on this page we, the manufacturer, have styled like-items on this page as a way of conveniently presenting products that are frequently bought together we invite you to sort customer comments by product to help make your purchasing choice
  • Adjustable steel cajon strings for snare effect spanning against the inside of the playing surface are micro-coiled steel cajon strings that deliver a crisp snare sound string tension is adjustable for tight or loose snare sounds (hex wrench included)
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Pyle String Cajon - Wooden Percussion Box, with Internal Guitar Strings, Full Size

Pyle String Cajon

by Sound Around
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Product Features

  • COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT : Comes in a compact size (LxWxH) : 12.0" x12.0" x18.0" and weighs only 10.9 pounds Very light and easy to carry about unlike other heavy and bulky brands of stringed Jam Cajon
  • ANTI-VIBRATION INTERFERENCE : Pyle wooden Cajon percussion box features a rubber- capped feet in order to prevent any possibility of vibration interference and encourage original crystal clear acoustic sound productio
  • ADJUSTABLE GUITAR STRINGS : Pyle string Jam Cajon is exquisitely engineered to allow musicians to totally express themselves, it features internal Adjustable guitar strings which provides a smooth rhythmic sound production for a better musical experience Strings can be tuned from the bottom of the cajon (hex key included inside)
  • PERFECT HANDCRAFT : Introducing Pyle string Jam Cajon, a perfect musical instrument that brings more life into your music An amazing hand crafted wooden panel box frame built in classic /traditional instrument style
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8.9
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Meinl Jumbo Bass Subwoofer Cajon with Internal Snares - NOT MADE IN CHINA - Walnut Playing Surface, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (SUBCAJ5WN)

Meinl Percussion Meinl Jumbo Bass Cajon Subwoofer with Internal Snares

by Meinl USA L.C.
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Product Features

  • Walnut playing surface and MDF body the walnut playing surface is ultra-sensitive to soft finger rolls and packs a punch at a louder volume the sturdy MDF body with thick rubber feet resonates fully, giving you maximum projection and superb tone
  • Internal fixed sets of snares three sets of internal fixed snare wires are positioned against the playing surface to add the dimension of a crisp snare drum sound get a cutting backbeat snare tone by playing near the top corners of the playing surface
  • Forward-facing ports with internal bass reflex an internal reflex channel directs sound waves and air out through forward-facing ports to create a bass note that feels like a perfectly tuned kick drum the tone will completely surround you as you play
  • Use indoors or outside this cajon is an outstanding percussion piece for settings like open mic nights, coffeehouse gigs, outdoor jam sessions or houses of worship it may also be used with a microphone to fill large spaces with percussive sound
  • Our biggest and bassiest cajon with a low end punch that you will feel as soon as you start playing, the Meinl Jumbo Subwoofer Cajon is mammoth in size and sound the extra wide body with internal bass reflex allows for superb low note development
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Sawtooth Harmony Series Hand Stained Elephant Design Travel Size Cajon

Sawtooth Harmony Series Hand Stained Design Elephant Travel Size Cajon

by Sawtooth
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Product Features

  • Child Size Cajon
  • Adjustable 6 string internal snare wire system . Adjustable top front plate corners allow you to alter the distance between the playing surface and the cajon body, resulting in a varied amount of slap sound when playing on corner hits
  • Dimensions: 9.5" x 10" x 15". Each Cajon is hand painted & stained, making every cajon unique!
  • Durable rubber base feet
  • Play towards the center of the front plate for deep and punchy bass notes, and toward the top center/corners for snare slap
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Sawtooth Cedar Wood String-Snare Cajon with Soft Case

Sawtooth Cedar Wood String-Snare with Cajon Soft Case

by Sawtooth
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Product Features

  • Proprietary Bass Port enhances the low end frequencies, adding more punch
  • Left and Right, 2 string diagonal (adjustable) internal string wire snare system offers consistent snare response
  • Cedar/Mohena Ply Front Plate
  • Includes ChromaCast Padded Cajon Bag
  • Dimensions: 19" x 11.75" x 11.75"
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Meinl Hybrid Slaptop Cajon Box Drum with Snare and Bongo, Forward Sound Ports - MADE IN EUROPE - Baltic Birch Wood, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (HTOPCAJ3NT)

Meinl Percussion Meinl Hybrid Slaptop Cajon Box with Drum Snare and Bongo, Forward Sound Ports

by Meinl USA L.C.
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Product Features

  • For upright playing: the unique X-shaped design on the hybrid slap top Cajon provides great comfort by allowing you to sit upright with the playing surface in your lap
  • Forward facing sound ports: The forward facing ports on the hybrid slap top Cajon ensure that your notes project to your Audience with total clarity; separate ports are positioned for bass and snare
  • Perfect for any setting: support any style of music in a live or studio setting with bass and snare drum sounds to simulate a drum set
  • Dual snare and bongo Cajon: The fixed snare wires are located on one side for a snare Cajon sound while the other side produces a bongo Cajon sound
  • Made in Europe with Baltic birch: The Hybrid Slap top Cajon is made in Europe with Baltic birch due its outstanding natural acoustic properties and wide dynamic range
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7.8
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Pyle Stringed Jam Cajon - Wooden Cajon Percussion Box. (PCJD15)

Pyle Stringed Jam Cajon

by Sound Around
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Product Features

  • Anti-Vibration Interference: Pyle wooden Cajon percussion box features a rubber- capped feet in order to prevent any possibility of vibration interference and encourage original crystal clear acoustic sound production.
  • Compact and Lightweight: Pyle Stringed Jam Cajon is a super compact hand-crafted wooden panel box frame. Designed to be easily carried to musical circles, Jam sessions, and so on. An ideal instrument for singers /song writers for trying out new beats.
  • Rhythmic Sound Production: This perfectly engineered stringed jam Cajon features internal guitar strings, these strings are there to deliver pleasant rhythmic sound production for great listening pleasure of the audience.
  • Musical Fun for All Ages: Fun packed musical instrument for all your age groups for various musical circles and jam sessions as well as for supporting acoustic bands.
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7.5
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Meinl Pickup Cajon Box Drum with Internal Snares - MADE IN EUROPE - Baltic Birch Wood, Snarecraft Series, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (PSC100B)

Meinl Percussion Meinl Pickup Cajon Drum Box with Internal Snares

by Meinl USA L.C.
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Product Features

  • Manufacturer disclaimer typographical or grammatical errors found in the bullet point or description text on this product page are a result of this sites system and are neither the fault of the manufacturer nor marketplace sellers
  • Great with amps or sound boards plug-in at large venues and outdoor shows by going direct into a PA system or connect to an amp to boost your sound this is an extraordinarily versatile cajon with limitless options on where to play
  • Internal passive Piezo pickups when you need amplification, this cajon is equipped with Piezo pickups and a 1/4" jack to boost your signal through an amplifier or PA system control tone and volume with the knobs on the side panel (cables not included)
  • Made in Europe with Baltic birch wood constructed in Europe with 100% Baltic birch wood, a wood type commonly used in high-end drum set construction for its punch, warmth, depth and sensitivity this cajon measures 11 W x 19 H x 11 " D
  • Four large rubber feet attached to the underside of this cajon are rubber feet that keep the instrument stable while preventing unwanted vibration and noise interference to preserve its crystal-clear sound quality

Ah, the humble Cajon. This unassuming percussion instrument has a rich history that spans across continents and cultures. Let me give you a detailed rundown of the fascinating history of the Cajon.

The Cajon, which is Spanish for "box" or "drawer," is believed to have originated in Peru during the time of the African slave trade. The story goes that the slaves were not allowed to bring their African drums to the New World, so they had to create new instruments from whatever materials they could find. They crafted simple wooden boxes from drawers, crates, and other discarded wood, and then played them as a percussion instrument.

The Cajon was also popular in Cuba, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th century, where it was used in various musical styles such as rumba, son, and salsa. However, it was not until the 1970s that the Cajon began to gain worldwide recognition, thanks to the efforts of a Peruvian musician and inventor named Eduardo Diaz Viana.

Diaz Viana was the first person to add guitar strings to the Cajon, creating a snare-like sound. He also added a sound hole to the back of the Cajon to allow for better projection. These modifications transformed the Cajon from a simple wooden box into a versatile percussion instrument that could be played in a variety of musical styles.

Today, the Cajon has become a popular instrument in many genres of music, from flamenco to rock to world music. It is portable, versatile, and easy to play, making it a favorite among musicians and percussionists.

But the Cajon's story doesn't end there. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in interest in the traditional, unadorned Cajon of old, with many musicians seeking out simple wooden boxes made from high-quality materials. This renewed interest in the Cajon's roots has led to a renewed appreciation for the instrument's history and cultural significance.

In conclusion, the Cajon may be a simple wooden box, but it has a rich history that speaks to the creativity, resourcefulness, and resilience of its creators. From its humble beginnings in Peru to its worldwide popularity today, the Cajon is a truly remarkable instrument that continues to make a powerful impact in the world of music.

Key Decision Making Factors:

1. Handcrafted Birch Wood Playing Surface

2. Two Zones for Bass and Snare Notes

3. Compact Size

4. Dual Sets of Internal Fixed Snare Wires

5. Rear Port for Microphone Placement

6. Made in Europe

1. Handcrafted Birch Wood Playing Surface: One of the crucial factors in choosing a Cajon is the playing surface as it affects the overall tone and durability of the instrument. This Cajon is handcrafted with 100% Baltic birch wood, a type of wood commonly used in high-end drum set construction. Birch wood has a unique acoustic quality that provides rich and clear sound, giving you plenty of definition with deep bass and cutting high tones.

2. Two Zones for Bass and Snare Notes: This Cajon has two zones on its playing surface, one for bass and the other for snare notes, allowing you to create drumset grooves with your hands. The center of the playing surface produces deep bass notes, while the top corners of the surface give crisp snare sounds when struck with fingers. This feature enables the player to create complex rhythms, giving them more versatility in their playing style.

3. Compact Size: The compact size of this Cajon makes it an ideal percussion instrument for traveling musicians, live performances, or jamming sessions. Measuring 10 1/4" wide x 15" tall x 10 1/4" deep, it is easy to transport and straightforward to use, so anyone can sit down and play it irrespective of their skill level or age.

4. Dual sets of internal fixed snare wires: This Cajon features dual sets of internal fixed snare wires placed inside the playing surface to deliver a snare drum-like sound. These snares are held in place by a thin mesh strap, which preserves the tone unaltered. The internal snares double the rhythmic options available to the player, allowing them to produce a variety of sounds with just one instrument.

5. Rear Port for Microphone Placement: The rear port of this Cajon provides an ideal spot to place a microphone if amplification is required. This circular cut-out also enhances low-end bass by allowing air to escape the instrument as you play it, giving a more robust and fuller sound. The port makes it easy to add more volume to the Cajon's sound, making it perfect for recording or larger venues where the sound needs to be projected with more force.

6. Made in Europe: This Cajon is manufactured in Europe, ensuring high-quality standards in its construction and use of materials. European manufacturers are recognized for their expertise in crafting musical instruments, and this Cajon is no exception. Its superior quality and craftsmanship make it reliable and long-lasting, giving the player years of worry-free performances.

Overall, these key factors make this Cajon a great choice for anyone who wants to add some percussion to their music. The handcrafted birch wood playing surface, two zones for bass and snare notes, compact size, dual sets of internal fixed snare wires, rear port for microphone placement, and European manufacturing all combine to create an instrument with excellent performance, versatility, and durability.

FAQ About cajons

Which are the best cajons?

The answer to this question is subjective and depends on personal preferences. There are several top brands in the market known for producing high-quality cajons, including Meinl, Pearl, and LP.

Which is the best company for cajon?

As mentioned above, there are several reputable brands for cajons. Meinl is a popular choice among many musicians due to their wide range of cajon styles and sizes, along with their high-quality construction.

What are the loudest cajons?

Generally, cajons with higher sound projection tend to be louder. Cajon models especially designed for stage performances, like Meinl's Subwoofer Cajon or the Pearl Primero Jingle Cajon, tend to have a louder sound compared to basic beginner models.

What is the most durable cajon?

The durability of a cajon ultimately depends on its build quality and materials used. Cajons constructed with sturdy hardwood like birch or oak tend to be more robust and durable. Cajons featuring thicker playing surfaces and strong corner joints also tend to have a longer lifespan. Some top durable cajon models are Meinl's Woodcraft Series Cajon or the LP Americana Series Groove Cajon.

And more, if you're in search of a versatile and easily transportable percussion instrument, look no further than the cajon drum. The birch jam cajon, with its two zones for bass and snare sounds and internal snares, is an excellent choice for acoustic shows and jam sessions. Its compact size makes it a great grab-and-go instrument for spontaneous musical gatherings. Plus, the rear port allows for easy microphone placement and enhances the low-end bass. To find the best cajon brand and value for your money, check out our review of the 5 best cajon drums at 5 Best Cajon Drums Reviewed of 2023 - Best Cajón Brands or our comprehensive list of the top 12 best cajon drums at Top 12 Best Cajon Drums Value The Money 2023. With a cajon, you'll be able to create a unique beat wherever you go.

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