The uilleann pipes are distinguished by their tone and range of notes. The chanter has a range of two octaves in a tempered scale which include sharps and flats. The chanter is accompanied by a set of drones, however, on the Uilleann pipes the drones can be turned on and off with a switch.

A third aspect of the Uilleann pipes that diffierentiates them from other pipes are the regulators. The regulators are equipped with keys which can be opened by the piper's wrist enabling the piper to play simple chords, giving a rhythmic and harmonic accompaniment as needed.