Gabber vs. Hardstyle — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 2, 2024
Gabber is a fast, aggressive style of electronic dance music, typically featuring distorted kick drums, while hardstyle combines hard techno, hard trance, and hardcore.
Difference Between Gabber and Hardstyle
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Gabber music, originating in the early 1990s in Rotterdam, is known for its extremely fast tempo, usually around 160-190 BPM. Whereas hardstyle, which emerged later, typically ranges from 150 to 160 BPM, providing a slightly slower, yet still intense, rhythmic experience.
The kick drum in gabber is notably harsh, distorted, and often forms the central element of the track. On the other hand, hardstyle employs a more rounded, less distorted kick which, while still powerful, allows for more melodic and harmonic elements to be integrated into the tracks.
Gabber tracks often lack substantial melodic content, focusing more on aggression and rhythm. In contrast, hardstyle features more pronounced melodies and harmonies, making it somewhat more accessible and emotionally diverse.
The audience for gabber is typically niche, attracted by its underground, counter-cultural vibe. Hardstyle, however, has gained a broader appeal, with large international festivals and a substantial global fan base.
Stylistically, gabber often embraces a more minimalist aesthetic, while hardstyle can be seen incorporating elaborate light shows and stage setups, reflecting its larger audience and more mainstream appeal.
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Comparison Chart
Tempo (BPM)
160-190
150-160
Kick Drum
Distorted, central to the music
Rounded, less distorted
Melodic Content
Minimal, focuses on rhythm
More pronounced, includes harmony
Audience
Niche, underground
Broader, more mainstream
Stylistic Aesthetics
Minimalist
Elaborate shows and setups
Compare with Definitions
Gabber
Often associated with a hardcore, rebellious youth culture.
Gabber music has always been a symbol of youth rebellion.
Hardstyle
Appeals to a wide audience, transcending its hardcore origins.
Hardstyle is loved by a diverse group of music fans across the world.
Gabber
Originated in Rotterdam as part of the hardcore techno scene.
Gabber's roots in Rotterdam are evident in its gritty, industrial vibe.
Hardstyle
Emerged in the late 1990s and gained popularity worldwide.
Since its emergence, hardstyle has grown into a global phenomenon.
Gabber
A style of electronic music with a fast tempo and aggressive undertones.
The gabber party featured intensely fast beats that energized the crowd.
Hardstyle
A genre combining elements of hard techno, trance, and hardcore.
Hardstyle's unique blend of genres makes it popular at electronic music festivals.
Gabber
Characterized by its distorted kick drums and minimal melody.
He loves gabber for its raw and powerful sound.
Hardstyle
Known for its rhythmic drive and emotive melodies.
The hardstyle track captivated him with its compelling melodies.
Gabber
Generally perceived as more underground than other electronic music styles.
Gabber remains a staple in the underground music scene.
Hardstyle
Features elaborate stage setups and light shows at performances.
The hardstyle concert was unforgettable, with its incredible light show.
Gabber
Gabber (; Dutch: [ˈxɑbər]), is a style of electronic music and a subgenre of hardcore techno. It is characterised by fast beats and samples, and was developed in Rotterdam in the 1990s by producers like Paul Elstak.
Hardstyle
Hardstyle is an electronic dance genre that emerged in the late 90s in the Netherlands and Belgium. Hardstyle mixes influences from techno, new beat and hardcore.
Gabber
To talk idly or incessantly, as about trivial matters.
Hardstyle
(music) A genre of electronic dance music that combines elements of trance, techno, and hardcore.
Gabber
Idle talk; chatter.
Hardstyle
(sports) In contrast to sports style, a specifically intensive workout exercise, such as a swing squat.
Gabber
(obsolete) A liar; a deceiver.
Gabber
One who is addicted to idle talk.
Gabber
A radio commentator or disc jockey.
Gabber
A subgenre of hardcore techno characterised by an intense, distorted kick sound and controversial lyrics or samples.
Gabber
(countable) A gabber music lover, usually dressed in a tracksuit, often with a complete shaved head or partially for women, seen primarily in the 1990s.
Gabber
A liar; a deceiver.
Gabber
One addicted to idle talk.
Common Curiosities
What defines the sound of a hardstyle kick drum?
The hardstyle kick drum is rounded and less distorted than in gabber, allowing for more melodic elements.
Why is gabber considered more underground?
Gabber maintains a niche appeal due to its aggressive style and underground origins.
How did gabber music originate?
Gabber originated in the early 1990s in Rotterdam as part of the hardcore techno movement.
Is hardstyle music suitable for mainstream listeners?
Yes, hardstyle has evolved to appeal to a broader, more mainstream audience compared to gabber.
What makes hardstyle different from other electronic music genres?
Hardstyle uniquely blends hard techno, trance, and hardcore with emotive melodies.
Can you describe the aesthetic of a hardstyle performance?
Hardstyle performances are known for their elaborate staging and dynamic light shows.
What is the audience demographic for gabber?
Gabber attracts a more niche, often younger and counter-cultural audience.
What is the typical BPM of gabber music?
Gabber music typically ranges from 160 to 190 BPM.
Are there large festivals that feature hardstyle?
Yes, hardstyle is featured in major international music festivals, attracting large audiences.
What is the main difference in melody between gabber and hardstyle?
Gabber focuses more on rhythm and aggression with minimal melody, while hardstyle incorporates pronounced melodic and harmonic elements.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
