The 7 Best Custom Music Boxes (2024)

You probably saw a music box at your grandparent’s house when growing up or were fascinated by your aunt’s jewelry box that played music every time someone opened it. It was the ballerina that swirled and captivated the imagination of children!

My top recommendation is the Custom melody music box by Donuma. The reason why I like it is that it provides you the option to add a photo, engraving, or both. Along with that, the metal melody mechanism of this music box helps it stand out. 

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an affordable option, you can go with the Natural Wooden Music Box by KKTOHAY. I am laying out 7 of my top recommendations.  

1. Donuma Custom Music Box

A handmade music box like this adds a personal touch and is unique.

This is one of the reasons why this custom music box is on top of my list. When you combine the handmade design along with the brass construction, you have a durable custom music box that you can go with. You need to place the order a bit in advance as it takes time to make these beautiful pieces. Donuma boxes are a gift of a lifetime because they are elegant.

As I highlighted above, you have the option to add a photo, engraving, and a custom music tune. It essentially provides all the features you might look for in a custom music box and that is why it is on top of my list.

Image Credit - Etsy Seller: Donuma

2. KKTOHAY Natural Wooden Music Box with Customizable Photos

If you are looking for a delightful tune in a music box, this is a nice option.

The wind-up allows you to play “Fly me to the moon”.

You might wonder how is it customizable if it has a predecided tune? It is customizable since it allows you to add your photo to add that personal touch.

The wind-up on the other side makes operating it undoubtedly easy. The music plays for over a minute or so. The compact design and the wooden finish have certainly made it a good option when it comes to budget custom music boxes.

3. Angie Wood Creations Co Engraved Musical Box

Nicely engraved music boxes with a cranking mechanism.

Number 3 on our list has that cranking mechanism and, therefore, the super desirable vintage look.

The USP of this music box is that it allows engraving on the inside or the outside of the box. Be it a logo, text, or an image, the box can be personalized. As for the music, there are seven songs which you can choose from and all are melodious tunes. Some of the choices available are: You are my sunshine, happy birthday, what a wonderful world, and can’t help falling in love.

The wooden construction, lightweight and portable design ensure that you won't have any complaints about this custom music box.

Image Credit - Etsy Seller: AngieWoodCreationsCo

4. Custom Music Box - Upload Your Own Songs with USB, 15 Songs Space, Exterior Matte Wood Tone...

Do you prefer full customization? If the answer is yes, check this one out

The box is essentially a jewelry box and makes for a much-appreciated present by girls and women. It allows you to add up to 15 songs of your choice using the USB port. The music boxes are handcrafted and the matte wooden finish which you get is unparalleled. The rechargeable lithium battery allows you to use it for 12 hours on a single charge.

The reason why it is on my list, however, is because it allows you to add your songs.

5. Simply Cool Gifts Music Box

There is just something about music boxes that are handmade!

What makes this one stand out is the Maplewood construction option that is not available in any other box on the list.

They are different in another way as well. They play the music box version of your song just like traditional boxes back in the day. No words, no lyrics, just a melodious tune.

As for customization, this one also allows you to engrave a message of your choice. Also, this music box can double up as a jewelry box, which is a versatile gift option. The box is a piece of art - one look at the image of this box, and you will understand its presence on this list!

Image Credit - Etsy Seller: Simplycoolgifts

6. The Davidson Workshop Lyric Box

By now, you might wonder, don't all these music boxes look the same? I don't blame you for that. Even though they vary from one another but by and large, their features are quite similar.

With the music box, I am highlighting now; you won't have that complaint. The design, as well as the color of this music box, is what makes it versatile. The sturdy construction means that it does not compromise on quality. Apart from that, it is handmade, of course.

You can customize it with a song of your choice. The duration limit is two minutes. It takes a leaf out of modern technology by providing you with the play button on the lid. You can also engrave a message on top.

The unique aesthetics of this one certainly make it a good buy.

Image Credit - Etsy Seller: TheDavidsonWorkshop

7. Bastex Store Personalized Wooden Music Box

This one is on the list because it has all the features that would make a music box a cherished possession - the vintage look, crank mechanism, and wooden construction all come together to make the piece a simple but aesthetically pleasing box.

The music box allows you to choose from three different song options and an engraved message of your choice.

If you're looking for something simple, this one won't disappoint you.

I have curated this list after looking at the many options available in the market. If you want to choose something out of the ordinary, look at the boxes listed here and pick one that fits your occasion, requirement, and most importantly, budget. Before you start searching, take a look at the answers to some FAQs below.

What Are Custom Music Boxes?

Custom music boxes are music boxes that allow you to personalize different aspects of the boxes, like custom tune the inside of the box or adding a photo or a message in the box. With some, you can even add your own music, it just depends on the type of music box.

Music boxes have a sentimental value for their owners and are a great way to bring some personal touch to your gifts or even as a decorative item. We don’t see these ornate little boxes as much anymore but they are more widely available than you would have thought. If you want to add that old-school charm to your table or give a meaningful gift to someone close, they make a thoughtful and lasting present!

You can find them in various shapes, sizes, and characters and usually have an option to be programmed to play the custom song of your choice. Among numerous such options available, I have curated a list of the top seven that would make a perfect fit for whatever occasion you are buying them for!

How Long Can a Music Box Song Be?

Generally speaking, the music box can play a tune for up to 2 – 3 minutes. However, if you’re buying a modern one (without a crank mechanism), it can play the entire song for 5 to 6 minutes. Choose carefully before you make your purchases.

What are Music Boxes Good for?

Traditionally music boxes double up as decoration pieces or jewelry storage. You can use them to enjoy the tune, for decorating your home, or as a perfect gift item as well.

Summary

If you have a loved one’s birthday coming up, want to express your feelings, or just send a message of affection, you can now buy a meaningful item that can communicate your message without you saying anything. Music boxes are great gifts for a best friend, an anniversary, a newlywed bride, a grandmother, and more.

If you’re on the lookout for some other options, check out our article on the best music gifts. As a unique gift, a music box can certainly bring a smile to the recipient. You can also gift one to yourself. No one can argue that a music box falls under the category of unique gift ideas.

Featured Image Credit: Etsy Seller: AngieWoodCreationsCo

Brian Clark

I’ve been a writer with Musician Wave for six years, turning my 17-year journey as a multi-instrumentalist and music producer into insightful news, tutorials, reviews, and features.

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