Playing the cello can be a fulfilling experience, but having a good bow can make all the difference. Bows come in different materials like fiberglass, wood, and carbon fiber, and it’s essential to choose the right one for your cello. The hair on a cello bow is typically thicker than that of a violin bow, providing a better grip.
The type of cello you have, whether classical or electric, also plays a significant role in determining which bow to use. Carbon fiber or fiberglass bows pair well with electric cellos, while wooden bows produce a better sound on classical cellos.
Cello bows come in various sizes, and a full-size bow typically measures 28 inches and weighs around 80 grams on average. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a beginner, or somewhere in between, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best cello bows available today that can help enhance your playing experience.
Top 5 Best Cello Bows
| Product | Rating |
|---|---|
| VINGOBOW 4/4 | 4.6 |
| SKY Bow | 4.5 |
| ADM 4/4 Bow | 4.4 |
| Fiddlerman 4/4 Bow | 4.7 |
| MI&VI Classic Bow | 4.5 |
The bows on this list were picked based on reviews by other users. We have kept in mind certain parameters such as their price point, usability, durability, and overall value for money.
1. VINGOBOW 4/4 Black Horsehair Carbon Fiber Cello Bow
This is a budget-friendly and durable bow. A carbon fiber bow works best on electric cellos and doesn’t lose shape in humid weather.
Product Details
- Horsehair – Natural Black Mongolian Horsehair
- Material – Carbon Fiber
- Sizes Available – 4/4
- Weight – 79.95 grams
2. SKY Mongolian Horsehair Brazilwood Bow
This round stick bow is very stiff and sounds bright. This bow is easily portable and well-balanced. It works best with classical cellos.
Product Details
- Horsehair – Mongolian Horsehair
- Material – Ebony Brazilwood
- Sizes Available – 1/2, 1/4, 3/4, 4/4
- Weight – 17.98 grams
3. ADM Horsehair Octagonal Brazilwood Bow
The bow has a leather thumb grip and wire winding. Its length is 28”. The half-lined ebony frog is practical and can be used to tighten or loosen the hair on the bow. If you are looking for a bow with high value but low cost, you may consider this one.
Product Details
- Horsehair – Natural Horsehair
- Material – Ebony Brazilwood, Leather
- Sizes Available – 4/4
- Weight – 158.75 grams
4. Fiddlerman Carbon Fiber Cello Bow
A hand-made bow is always superior in its make. This is perfect for those looking for a full-size bow with a little bit of weight to it. The weight distribution is adequate. The arch ensures good bounce and action.
Product Details
- Horsehair – Quality Siberian Horsehair
- Material – Carbon Fiber
- Sizes Available – 4/4
- Weight – 99.79 grams
5. MI & VI Classic Brazilwood Cello Bow with Ebony Frog and Octagonal Silver Mount
This is a hand-carved bow ensuring a stable hold and a natural bounce. It is excellent for those who prefer a light bow. MI&VI Music offers a 90-day warranty on this bow.
Product Details
- Horsehair – Mongolian Horsehair
- Material – Ebony Brazilwood
- Sizes Available – 1/4, 1/8, 3/4, 4/4
- Weight – 67.76 grams
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Final Thoughts
Purchasing a cello can be a significant investment, but many people often forget about the accessories that come with it. One of the essential accessories for playing the cello is a good bow. It is important to find the right bow that has the right thickness and weight, and is also durable.
There are many different factors to consider when purchasing a bow, such as the material it is made of and the quality of the hair used. However, the most important factor to consider is comfort. The bow you feel most comfortable playing with is the best for you.
If you are still unsure which kind of bow to get, it is recommended that you visit your local music store and try out a few bows to see which one feels right for you. It is essential to invest in a good quality bow as it can significantly affect the sound of your cello playing.
