Accordion roundup
The Best Accordions for the Money
Reed quality, bellows airtightness and keyboard action are the benchmarks that separate good value from poor — this guide covers the standout options at every price point.
What Makes the Best Accordion at Each Price Point?
Value in an accordion comes from the quality of its reeds, the airtightness of its bellows and the action of its keyboard or buttons. At lower prices, manufacturers cut costs on reed quality and bellows materials. At mid-range, the reed work improves substantially and the overall instrument becomes more responsive and durable. At the professional level, each reed is hand-finished and the bellows achieve a seal that allows very slow, controlled playing — a level of refinement that entry-level instruments cannot match.
Best Entry-Level Options
The Hohner Bravo III 72 is the most consistently recommended entry-level accordion for piano players. It has a 26-key treble keyboard, 72 basses, responsive bellows and Italian-style reeds that outperform instruments at similar price points from unbranded competitors. The Weltmeister Perle is a well-regarded German alternative with 34 treble keys and 72 basses, offering a fuller range for slightly more money. Both options are widely stocked by UK retailers and have good repair networks.
Best Mid-Range Options
At the mid-range, the Scandalli Super VI is one of the strongest options, with hand-finished reeds and a bellows that gives noticeably more expressive dynamic range than entry-level models. A mid-range accordion in this bracket typically costs between £800 and £1,500 new. Italian-made instruments at this price — particularly those by Paolo Soprani and Scandalli — represent a clear step up in playability and build quality compared with entry-level alternatives.
Best Professional Models
The Bugari Armando range and the Pigini top-tier instruments are widely considered among the finest built for both concert and folk performance. A professional-grade accordion at this level features individually voiced reeds, a full 41-key treble range, 120 basses and bellows constructed from premium leather. Prices typically start above £3,000 and can reach well above that for custom-built instruments. For most working musicians, a quality mid-range accordion is a more sensible investment.
Choosing the Right Instrument for Your Budget
The best accordion for a particular player depends on playing style, physical size and the musical context. Beginners should resist the temptation to buy the largest or most expensive model available — a well-maintained entry-level instrument from a reputable brand will serve effectively through the first two to three years of study. Our buyer's guide covers the key decisions in detail.
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