Techno vs House: Choosing Your Speed
The Floor-Filler Debate
In the world of electronic dance music, two giants reign supreme: **Techno** and **House**. While they share the 4/4 "four-on-the-floor" kick drum, their souls are fundamentally different. One is a machine-driven industrial march, while the other is a soulful, rhythmic celebration.
BPM: The Heartbeat
The most obvious difference is the tempo. **House music** typically sits between **120 and 126 BPM**, giving it a groovier, "shuffling" feel. **Techno** is faster, starting at **128 BPM** and often reaching **140+ BPM** in modern peak-time sets.
Structure and Sound
House music often incorporates vocals, pianos, and funk-inspired basslines. It's about "uplifting" the listener. Techno, conversely, is about "hypnosis." It relies on repetitive, evolving textures and industrial soundscapes that build over long periods.
Key Artists
If you want to hear the difference, listen to **Carl Cox** (Techno) versus **Frankie Knuckles** (House). You'll immediately hear how one pushes forward with relentless energy, while the other invites you to swing with the groove.