Best
Overall Bass Guitar for Small Hands
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Overall: Lightweight body for hours of performance time
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Best Feature: Beautiful visual aesthetics including imperial stain finish and white pearloid dot inlays
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TedScore™: 9X/10
Best
Budget Bass Guitar Small Hands
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Overall: Versatile sound for various music genres
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Best Feature: Five-way pickup selector for tonal variations. Decent build quality for good value
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Value Bass Guitar Small Hands
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Overall: Smooth and comfortable playability for effortless bass playing.
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Best Feature: Lightweight construction for comfortable playing.
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TedScore™: 9/10
Need help playing a bass guitar with small hands? Choosing the *right bass guitar* can change everything, transforming fretting struggles into a smooth glide along the neck. This can boost *confidence* and let you *play faster*.
As a fellow musician with small hands, I’m excited to share some great choices that fit our smaller hand span and deliver the rich sound you’re looking for.
You’ll discover the top small bass guitar picks that have been meeting the needs of bass players with petite hands, so don’t let size hold you back—explore this article to learn how to play the bass comfortably and find your new favorite instrument! Stick with me; I’m sure you’ll be eager to get your hands on one of these excellent options.
Our Top 7 Recommended Bass Guitars for Small Hands
Ibanez GSRM20B GIO miKro Bass, Walnut Flat
The Ibanez GSRM20B GIO miKro Bass is a powerhouse of sound, specially designed for musicians with a smaller build who don’t want to compromise on quality or power. This bass guitar packs a punch with its short-scale neck, medium frets, and GSRM neck profile, providing maximum comfort while unleashing your full potential on stage.
Crafted from poplar wood, the body of this bass guitar has a stunning walnut flat finish that balances the snap of the maple neck, giving you a robust, meaty tone that’s sure to captivate your audience. And when you hit those low notes, the treated New Zealand pine fingerboard will project a clear, crisp sound with incredible sustain.
Equipped with two powerful Dynamix bass pickups in a classic “P/J” configuration, the Ibanez GSRM20B GIO miKro Bass is your ultimate weapon for producing warm jazz tones or thunderous rock sounds. With individual volume controls and a master tone control, you can fine-tune your sound to suit your style and create a unique, personalized tone.
Ibanez GSRM20B GIO miKro Bass, Walnut Flat
PERFECT FOR: Beginner bassists
FEATURES: Scale Length: 28.6''
OTHER INFO: Frets: 22 Medium
Ibanez GSRM20B GIO miKro Bass, Walnut Flat
- Compact design for small-handed players
- Maple neck and poplar body for excellent tone
- Dynamix pickups offer versatile tones
- Easy sound customization with volume and tone controls
- Bolt-on construction for quality and playability
- Walnut flat finish gives the bass an attractive, modern look.
- The bass does not come with a case.
- May not be suitable for advanced or professional players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass, Black
Prepare to unleash legendary tones with the Geddy Lee Jazz Bass, a bass guitar that captures the signature style and sound of the iconic Canadian musician, singer and songwriter. This masterfully crafted replica bass guitar is a must-have for any bassist seeking the ultimate perfection in their performance.
With a sleek black polyester finish over an alder body, this bass guitar is not just a stunning sight to behold, but it’s also lightweight, making it easy to play for hours on end. The one-piece maple neck, finished with glossy urethane, feels smooth and natural, perfectly complementing the black alder body for a visually striking appearance.
The Geddy Lee Jazz Bass is equipped with two American vintage single-coil jazz bass pickups, capable of producing a classic tone that accurately replicates Geddy Lee’s original bass sound. The separate volume controls for each pickup and a master tone control give you the flexibility to shape your sound to match your style and preferences.
Designed with a custom high-mass Fender bridge, this bass guitar not only enhances overall sustain but also provides impeccable intonation for a clean, precise and flawless performance.
Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass, Black
PERFECT FOR: Experienced players, bassists looking for a classic sound.
FEATURES: Nickel-Plated Steel strings
OTHER INFO: .045 - .105 Gauges
Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass, Black
- Replicates the iconic bass sound and style of Geddy Lee.
- Smooth and comfortable playability for effortless bass playing.
- High-quality pickups and bridge for superior sound quality.
- Lightweight construction for comfortable playing.
- Comes with a gig bag for easy transportation.
- May not be suitable for beginners due to the high level of craftsmanship and price.
- Limited color options.
- Not suitable for those looking for a modern sound
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang Bass LRL, Surf Green
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang Bass LRL, Surf Green is a sight to behold. Its vintage-inspired aesthetic is sure to turn heads and capture the attention of any musician looking for a bass with a classic vibe. But this instrument is more than just looks – it’s engineered to deliver top-notch sound quality and exceptional playability.
The neck is made of maple with a “C” shape and tinted gloss urethane finish that offers a comfortable grip for hours of playing. The Indian Laurel fingerboard with pearloid dot inlays and white side dots adds to the classic look of the instrument.
The Fender® Designed Alnico Split Single-Coil pickup, with its ‘60s-voiced vintage sparkle, produces a pure, classic sound that is free from noise interference. The 4-saddle Mustang® Bass strings-through-body bridge adds to the instrument’s sustain and resonance. The shorter 30” scale length makes this bass guitar the ideal choice for players with smaller hands.
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang Bass LRL, Surf Green
PERFECT FOR: Beginner To Intermediate bassists
FEATURES: Nut Width: 1.5"
OTHER INFO: Number of Frets: 20
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang Bass LRL, Surf Green
- Rich, classic sound with sparkling vintage sparkle
- Noise-free pickup for pristine clarity
- Superb playability with minimal strain on the hand
- Eye-catching vintage icon design
- Limited tonal options due to the absence of a pickup selector switch
- Some may find the length tricky to adjust to
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender Player Jazz Bass PF, 3-Tone Sunburst
The Fender Player Jazz Bass PF offers an unbeatable combination of classic sound and modern design. This bass guitar comes equipped with a lightweight alder body, perfect for taking on the stage, and a maple neck shaped into a modern “C” for unparalleled comfort. Two powerful Player Series Alnico 5 pickups provide rich tones and powerful lows with a set of easy-to-use tone and volume controls that let you shape your sound just the way you want it.
With a 9.5″ radius pau ferro fingerboard and 20 medium jumbo frets for fast playing, this classic jazz bass is sure to become an essential part of any musician’s setup. Finished with stylish 3-Tone Sunburst and nickel/chrome hardware, the Fender Player Jazz Bass PF is for any aspiring bassist.
The Fender Player Bass PF will help you take sound to the next level. All you need to do is plug in and let those riffs, chords and solos fly. And every surface of the fretboard and neck is satin-finished on the back and glossed on the front for maximum comfort.
Fender Player Jazz Bass PF, 3-Tone Sunburst
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Jazz Bass Shape
OTHER INFO: Standard Open-Gear tuning machine
Fender Player Jazz Bass PF, 3-Tone Sunburst
- Versatile tone for any playing style and genre
- Comfortable neck with satin finish on the back and glossed front
- Rich history as bass of choice for many legendary players
- No case included
- Pau ferro fingerboard may not be preferred by some players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II, Imperial Stain
The Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II in Imperial Stain is the perfect choice for bassists who demand outstanding tone and performance. Wielding two Gretsch single-coil pickups, this instrument provides plenty of twang and definition for any style.
The short scale length is favoured by many pro musicians, allowing the strings to be strung at a lower tension for fat and full lows. It’s also equipped with three magnificent tonewoods – maple neck, black walnut fingerboard and basswood body – that provide dynamic, woody tones with plenty of character.
The black plexi pickguard features the iconic Gretsch logo adding to its classic appeal. Plus, the die-cast tuning machines and adjustable 4-saddle bridge allow for precise intonation and set up. If you’re in search of a reliable, professional bass instrument with plenty of vintage style and tone – the Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II is an excellent choice.
Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II, Imperial Stain
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: Scale Length: 770mm
OTHER INFO: Nut Width: 39.68mm
Gretsch G2220 Electromatic Junior Jet Bass II, Imperial Stain
- Easy to play with low string tension
- Gives off powerful, full-bodied tones
- Lightweight body for hours of performance time
- Beautiful visual aesthetics including imperial stain finish and white pearloid dot inlays
- Sturdy chrome hardware with four-saddle adjustable bridge
- No cutaway body design to access the higher frets
- Limited tonal options
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ibanez GRGM21 GIO miKro, Black Night
The Ibanez GRGM21 GIO miKro in Black Night is a guitar that’s designed to deliver high-quality sound and playability for young musicians and seasoned players with smaller hands. Featuring a short-scale neck, small body design, medium frets, and a GRGM neck profile, this guitar is incredibly comfortable to play, making it perfect for musicians on the go.
The Infinity pickups in the bridge and neck position provide powerful, clear sound and allow you to switch between different tones with ease using the three-way pickup selector, volume, and tone knobs. The New Zealand pine fretboard and maple GRGM neck work together to ensure maximum comfort and speed when riffing or soloing.
Robust hardware like the F106 bridge and jumbo frets ensure that this guitar will hold up to even the most intense playing sessions without losing its tuning or causing damage.
Overall, the Ibanez GRGM21 GIO miKro in Black Night is a versatile and affordable guitar that delivers everything you need in terms of tone, durability and looks.
Ibanez GRGM21 GIO miKro, Black Night
PERFECT FOR: Beginners
FEATURES: Scale Length: 22.2’’
OTHER INFO: Frets: 24 Medium
Ibanez GRGM21 GIO miKro, Black Night
- Versatile sound for various music genres
- Excellent playability
- Outstanding rock tones
- Five-way pickup selector for tonal variations
- Decent build quality for good value
- Tuning stability may require frequent adjustments
- Clean tone may not suit everyone's preferences and may require tweaking.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird, Inverness Green
The Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird is a bass guitar model that was first introduced by Gibson in 1965. The Non-Reverse Thunderbird is so-called because its body shape is a reverse of the original Thunderbird bass design.
The Inverness Green color is a popular finish option for the Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird. It is a dark green hue with a glossy finish that is both striking and elegant. The Inverness Green finish is often paired with a white pickguard and chrome hardware, which further accentuates the bass’s unique design.
The Non-Reverse Thunderbird is built with a mahogany body and neck, giving it an incredibly warm tone. It also has a rosewood fingerboard with 20 frets, offering plenty of playing range. The bass is equipped with two specially designed pickups, the Thunderbird Lead in the bridge and the Thunderbird Rhythm in the neck.
The pickups are able to produce a wide range of tones, from thick, booming lows to bright and articulate highs.
Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird, Inverness Green
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate and expert level players
FEATURES: Profile: Rounded
OTHER INFO: Three-Point Adjustable Bridge
Gibson Non-Reverse Thunderbird, Inverness Green
- Powerful Output with High Dynamic Range
- Effortless Playability Along the Fretboard
- Gorgeous Warm Tone With Exceptional Sustain
- Smooth Neck and Rich Resonance
- Premium Construction for Durability
- Body shape may not appeal to everyone's preference.
- Higher price point
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tips for Choosing a Bass Guitar for Small Hands
There are certain factors to consider when selecting the best bass guitar that can make the process easier and help you find an instrument that is comfortable to play. Here are some tips for choosing a bass guitar for small hands:
Consider the Neck Profile
The thickness and shape of the neck are crucial factors to consider when choosing a bass guitar for small hands.
A narrow neck bass guitar profile is usually more comfortable for players with small hands as it allows them to wrap their fingers around the neck more easily. A C-shaped neck profile is a good option as it tends to be thinner than other shapes.
Look for a Shorter Scale Length
A shorter scale length means that the frets are closer together, making it easier for players with small hands to reach all the notes. Bass guitars with a scale length of 30 inches or less are ideal for smaller hands.
Consider the Body Shape and Weight
The weight of a bass guitar can also impact its playability for those with small hands. A lighter instrument will be easier to hold and manoeuvre, which can be particularly important for longer playing sessions. Look for bass guitars that are made with lighter materials, such as ash, alder, or basswood.
A body that is too large or bulky may be difficult to hold and navigate. Consider a bass guitar with a smaller body shape, such as a jazz bass or a precision bass, which are known for their comfortable designs.
Try Before You Buy
It is important to try out a bass guitar before making a purchase. This will allow you to test the instrument’s playability and comfort level. When trying out a bass guitar, pay attention to how easy it is to reach around the fretboard and form chords, as well as how comfortable it is to hold and play for extended periods of time.
Playing Techniques for Small-Handed Bassists
As a bass player with small hands, it is important to learn and implement playing techniques that can help overcome any perceived limitations. One such technique is playing with a lighter touch. By playing with a lighter touch, you can avoid having to stretch your fingers too much, which can cause discomfort and pain.
Another technique is to utilize the whole hand instead of just the fingertips. This means using the fleshy part of your fingers, the sides of your fingers, and even the palms of your hands to play the strings. By doing this, you can achieve a wider reach across the fretboard without straining your fingers.
Finger Stretching Exercises
To improve your finger dexterity and flexibility, you can incorporate finger stretching exercises into your practice routine. Simple exercises like finger tapping and finger stretching can help improve your finger strength and reach.
Here are some basic exercises that you can do to get started:
Make a fist with one hand and spread the fingers of your other hand between the knuckles. Gently press down on them to stretch out the muscles in your hand; hold for 5-10 seconds.
Take your thumb and index finger from one hand and make circles, first in one, then in the other direction. You can also do this with your middle, ring and pinky fingers.
Clench one hand into a fist and then bend the wrist back until you feel a stretch; hold for 5-10 seconds. Repeat with the other hand.
Hand Positioning
Proper hand positioning is critical for any bass player, but it is especially important for those with small hands. By placing your hand in the correct position, you can maximize your reach and minimize the strain on your fingers.
When playing, your thumb should be positioned behind the neck of the bass, with your fingers curved over the strings. Your wrist should be straight, and your elbow should be relaxed and at your side.
By maintaining proper hand positioning, you can avoid unnecessary strain on your hands and fingers, allowing you to play for longer periods of time without discomfort.
Bass Guitar For Small Hands
Summary
Choosing the perfect bass for small hands can be quite an adventure, especially when you’ve got petite paws like mine. Remember, it’s not just about the size; the vibe and the instrument’s feel in your hands truly count.
Passion is the key to unlocking your potential as a bass player. With true dedication, obstacles like small hands or a busy schedule become smaller hurdles that can be easily overcome. When you love what you do, nothing can hold you back.
So, if you’re a bass player with small hands, don’t let that stop you from pursuing your dreams. Play bass guitar and express your voice with a quality instrument that is designed with small hands in mind.
We’d love to hear from you!
Do you have any tips or advice for bass players with small hands? How do you make playing easier for yourself?
Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
Robert, thank you for such an educational article. As a music teacher, getting clear, concise information about instruments suitable for students of all hand sizes is critical. This will greatly assist me in recommending bass guitars to my students with smaller hands. The detail on neck profiles and scale lengths is especially appreciated as these are key factors in a student’s comfort and progress.
Well I didn’t write the article Suzie – but thanks anyway!
Quick note – the Ibanez GRGM21 GIO miKro isn’t technically a bass guitar, it’s a short scale electric. Might be confusing for folks new to the instrument. Otherwise, solid list, Robert.
Maggie, no worries! For beginners, you can’t go wrong with the Squier Classic Vibe series – affordable but great quality. Best of luck!
Oh, thanks for pointing that out! was about to make a mistake there. any recommendations for a true beginner bass?
The Fender Geddy Lee Jazz Bass has long been a dream of mine, and its inclusion in this list just validates my desire even more. There’s something to be said about the quality of sound and comfort you get with Fender, especially in models that are accommodating to all hand sizes. Great rundown on these models; it’s very insightful and helpful for making a purchase decision.
hey so im new to all this and was wondering for someone just starting is there a big difference in starting with a bass for small hands? ive got pretty small hands lol
Really appreciated the depth Robert Emery went into about scale lengths and neck profiles. I’ve been playing bass for years but always struggle with some models due to my smaller hands. The recommendations are spot on, especially the Ibanez GSRM20B; it’s a dream for playability without stretching too much. Would love to see more about amps that pair well with these models for a follow-up article!
Well I didn’t write the article Alex, but thanks for supporting Ted’s List anyway!