keepthebeat
About KeepTheBeat
KeepTheBeat is a free online metronome that helps musicians of all levels practice with precise, consistent timing. Built with the Web Audio API, it delivers rock-solid accuracy that won't drift or skip - even if you switch tabs or minimize your browser.
How to Use
Set your desired tempo using the dial, the +/- buttons, or by typing a BPM value directly. Hit Start to begin, or press Space on your keyboard. Use Tap Tempo to match the beat of a song - just tap along and the metronome will calculate the BPM for you.
Features
Accurate Timing
Unlike many online metronomes that rely on JavaScript timers, ours uses the Web Audio API's built-in scheduler to place each click with sample-accurate precision. It even stays locked in when your browser tab is in the background - no drifting, no skipping.
8 Time Signatures
Practice in any meter you need. Choose from simple time signatures like 2/4, 3/4, and 4/4, odd meters like 5/4 and 7/8, or compound grooves like 6/8, 9/8, and 12/8. Compound meters automatically accent their natural strong beats so you can feel the pulse right away.
Subdivisions
Break each beat down further with subdivision options. Select quarter notes for the basic pulse, eighth notes for double-time feel, triplets for swing and shuffle patterns, or sixteenth notes for detailed rhythmic practice.
Tap Tempo
Not sure what BPM a song is? Just tap along with the rhythm and the metronome will figure it out. It averages your recent taps and filters out any mistaps so you get a clean, reliable reading every time.
Multiple Click Sounds
Pick the sound that works best for your practice. The digital click is sharp and cutting, the wood block has a warm resonant tone, and the soft beep provides a gentler guide that sits in the background without being distracting.
Accented Downbeats
The first beat of each bar plays with a distinct higher-pitched click and lights up in a different color, making it easy to hear and see where each measure begins. In compound meters like 6/8 and 12/8, secondary accents mark the natural beat groupings.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Keep your hands on your instrument. Press Space to start and stop, use the Up and Down arrow keys to nudge the tempo, and hit T to tap tempo - all without reaching for the mouse.
Dark & Light Mode
Switch between dark and light themes to suit your environment. Whether you're practicing in a dimly lit room or a bright studio, the interface stays comfortable and easy to read. Your preference is saved automatically.
Tempo Markings & BPM Chart
Musicians use Italian tempo markings to describe the speed of a piece. Use this chart to find the right BPM for any tempo marking, then set it on the metronome above.
| Tempo Marking | BPM Range | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Grave | 20–40 | Very slow, solemn |
| Largo | 40–55 | Broadly, very slow |
| Larghetto | 55–65 | Rather broadly |
| Adagio | 65–75 | Slow and expressive |
| Andante | 75–95 | Walking pace |
| Andantino | 95–108 | Slightly faster than Andante |
| Moderato | 108–120 | Moderate speed |
| Allegretto | 120–132 | Moderately fast |
| Allegro | 132–156 | Fast and lively |
| Vivace | 156–176 | Lively and brisk |
| Presto | 176–200 | Very fast |
| Prestissimo | 200–300 | As fast as possible |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a metronome?
A metronome is a tool that produces a steady click or beat at a set tempo, measured in beats per minute (BPM). Musicians use it to keep consistent timing while practicing or performing.
What BPM should I set my metronome to?
It depends on the piece you're playing. Most sheet music includes a tempo marking - look for an Italian term like Allegro or Andante, or a specific BPM number at the top of the score. If you're unsure, use our tempo chart above to match the marking to a BPM range.
Does this metronome work on mobile?
Yes. KeepTheBeat is fully responsive and works on any device with a modern web browser - phones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. No app download required.
Will the metronome keep playing if I switch tabs?
Yes. KeepTheBeat uses the Web Audio API, which continues to run accurately in the background even when you switch browser tabs or minimise the window.
What time signatures are available?
You can choose from 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/8, 7/8, 9/8, and 12/8. Compound meters like 6/8 and 12/8 automatically accent the natural strong beats within each bar.
What does the Tap Tempo button do?
Tap the button (or press the T key) in rhythm with a song, and the metronome will calculate the tempo from your taps. It's a quick way to find the BPM of any piece of music.