- Soprano: These are the smallest bagpipes, with a chanter (the melody pipe) that is approximately 11-12 inches long. They are popular for playing in folk bands and for teaching children.
- Alto: Alto bagpipes are larger than soprano bagpipes, with a chanter that is approximately 14-16 inches long. They are often used in traditional Scottish pipe bands and for solo performances.
- Tenor: Tenor bagpipes are the most commonly used bagpipes in pipe bands. They have a chanter that is approximately 18-21 inches long and produce a deep, rich sound.
- Baritone: Baritone bagpipes are larger than tenor bagpipes, with a chanter that is approximately 23-26 inches long. They are used in some pipe bands and for solo performances.
- Bass: Bass bagpipes are the largest and lowest-pitched bagpipes. They have a chanter that is approximately 28-32 inches long and produce a deep, resonant sound. Bass bagpipes are often used in marching bands and for solo performances.
The size of bagpipes can vary slightly depending on the maker and the style of bagpipes being played.