Best
Professional Ukulele
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Overall: Sublime Playability Is Offered By The Comfortable Shape And Satin Finish
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Best Feature: Crisp, Balanced, Crystal-Clear Sound Flows From A Beautiful Koa Construction
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Versatile Ukulele
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Overall: Added Warmth Delivered From Rosewood Bridge And Fingerboard
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Best Feature: Crafted From Solid Mahogany, Delivering Such A Big Tone From A Small Instrument
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Beginner Ukulele
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Overall: Enjoy A Lively, Warm, Responsive Ukulele Character
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Best Feature: All-Mahogany Body Creates Plenty Of Sweet Sonic Goodness
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Thinking of grabbing a ukulele? It’s a fantastic way to unwind and enjoy yourself. But hold your horses, you probably want to know, how much does a ukulele cost?
The answer can vary depending on factors such as the brand, size, and materials used.
You can find a decent entry-level ukulele between £/$50 to £/$100.
However, if you’re looking for something more premium, you can expect to pay upwards of £/$300 or even £/$500. But don’t let the price tag deter you!
There are plenty of affordable options for a cheap ukulele that still sounds great.
So, whether you’re a seasoned musician or just starting, there’s a ukulele for everyone. Keep reading to learn more about choosing the right one for you!
Factors That Affect the Cost
When buying a ukulele, the cost can vary greatly depending on several factors. Here are some of the main factors that can affect the price of a ukulele:
Type of Ukulele
The type of ukulele you choose can greatly affect the price. Soprano ukuleles are typically the most affordable, while larger sizes like concert, tenor, and baritone can be more expensive. Additionally, electric ukuleles that come with built-in pickups can also be pricier than their acoustic counterparts.
Brand
The brand of the ukulele can also impact the cost. Popular brands like Kala, Lanikai, and Cordoba are more expensive than lesser-known brands. However, remember that higher prices don’t always equate to better quality. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Materials
The materials used to make the ukulele can also affect the cost.
Higher-end ukuleles are often made with premium woods like koa or mahogany, while cheaper ukuleles may be made with laminate woods or other lower-quality materials.
The type of strings, tuners, and finish can also impact the ukulele price range.
Expertise Level
Finally, the expertise level of the player can also affect the cost.
If you’re a beginner, you may not need a high-end ukulele and can get by with a more affordable option.
However, if you’re a professional or advanced player, investing in a high-quality ukulele may be worth it.
Types of Ukuleles and
Their Prices
If you’re in the market for a ukulele, you’ll quickly realize there are many types to choose from. Each type of ukulele has its unique sound and price range. Here are some of the most common types of ukuleles and their prices:
Soprano Ukulele
The soprano ukulele is the smallest and most traditional type of ukulele. It’s also the most affordable, ranging from $/£20 to $/£200.
Soprano ukuleles have a bright, cheerful sound, perfect for playing traditional Hawaiian music.
Concert Ukulele
The concert ukulele is slightly larger than recommended beginner or soprano ukuleles and has a fuller sound.
It’s a popular choice for beginners and intermediate players, with prices ranging from $/£50 to $/£500.
Concert ukuleles are versatile and can be used for various music styles.
Tenor Ukulele
The tenor ukulele is even larger than the concert ukulele and has a richer sound.
It’s a popular choice for professional players and those who want to play jazz or blues music.
Prices for tenor ukuleles range from \$/£100 to \$/£1000.
Baritone Ukulele
The baritone ukulele is the largest and deepest-sounding ukulele.
It’s often used as a substitute for a guitar and is popular among folk and country music players.
Baritone ukuleles are the most expensive, ranging from $/£300 to $/£1500.
Electric Ukulele
Electric ukuleles are popular for those who want to amplify their sound.
They come in various sizes and types, including soprano, concert, and tenor.
Prices for electric ukuleles range from $/£100 to $/£1000.
Custom Ukuleles
Custom ukuleles are handcrafted and made to order.
They’re often made with high-quality materials and can be customized to your specifications.
Prices for custom ukuleles can range from $/£500 to $/£5000 or more, depending on the materials used and the level of customization.
Where to Buy Ukuleles
If you’re looking to buy a ukulele, you have several options. Here are some of the most popular places to buy ukuleles:
Music Stores
Music stores are a great place to buy a ukulele. They usually have a wide selection of instruments (including fancy beginner ukuleles!), and you can try them out before you buy them. This is especially important if you don’t know what to look for in a ukulele.
Online Retailers
Online retailers are another great option for buying a ukulele. They often have a wider selection of ukuleles than brick-and-mortar stores, and you can often find better deals online. Some popular online retailers that sell ukuleles include Amazon, Sweetwater, and Reverb.
Specialty Stores
If you’re looking for a high-end or speciality ukulele, you may want to check out a speciality store.
These stores often have a more curated selection of ukuleles and can provide more personalized service.
Some popular speciality stores that sell ukuleles include The Ukulele Site, Hawaii Music Supply, and Elderly Instruments.
Secondhand Stores
If you’re on a budget or looking for a good deal, you may want to check out secondhand stores. You can often find used ukuleles in good condition for a fraction of the price of a new one. Some popular secondhand stores that sell ukuleles include Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Craigslist.
Research and read reviews before purchasing, no matter where you buy your first ukulele from. This will help ensure that you get a ukulele that meets your needs and is of good quality.
Ukelele Price Range
When buying a ukulele, your budget is one of the most important factors to consider. Ukuleles come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models that cost thousands of dollars.
Here’s a breakdown of the different ukulele price ranges and what you can expect to get for your money.
Under $/£50
If you’re on a tight budget or just starting, you can find plenty of cheap ukuleles around in this price range. However, be aware that many of the cheapest options may not be of the best quality. You may find the tuning difficult to adjust, the strings break easily, or the sound is unclear. That being said, some good options are available if you research.
PERFECT FOR: young beginners
FEATURES: With soft strings and a small soprano size
OTHER INFO: Crafted with a high quality laminate build
Ukulele by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Produces sweet, mellow sounds
- Ideal for practice and play, learning, and teaching music fundamentals
- You can take anywhere
- Not the best quality in terms of durability
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™.
PERFECT FOR: young beginners
FEATURES: Distinctive, characterful tone delivered by sapele mahogany body
OTHER INFO: Crafted for performance with an ultra-smooth basswood ply fretboard
Sapele Soprano Ukulele by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Premium feel provided by sleek Aquila strings
- Soprano size produces bright, melodic resonance with exceptional clarity
- Provides an effortless playing experience
- None
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™.
$/£50-100
In this price range, you can find some decent beginner ukuleles and mid-level ukuleles that are a step up from the cheapest options. You can expect better sound quality, comfortable playability, and durable construction. However, you may still have some issues with tuning stability or intonation.
PERFECT FOR: players of all abilities
FEATURES: Naturally resonant tone stems from an all-Okoume construction
OTHER INFO: Optimum tonal balance, thanks to the famed concert-sized body
Ortega RUCOAL Concert Acoustic Ukulele
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Immaculate playability delivered by the satin-finished neck
- Expertly crafted to thrive in both performance and playability
- Distinctive design delivers a performance of a true personal character
- None
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™.
PERFECT FOR: players of all ages and skill
FEATURES: All-mahogany body creates plenty of sweet sonic goodness
OTHER INFO: Enjoy a lively, warm, responsive ukulele character
Kala Satin Mahogany KA-15S Soprano Ukulele
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Play with comfort thanks to a silky-smooth satin finish
- Classic soprano size delivers an instantly recognisable high-end shimmer
- With geared tuners and premium Aquila Nylgut strings for reliably warm sounds and stable tuning
- Affordable ukulele that delivers a rich tonal range
- None
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™.
$/£100-300
In my experience, this price range is the sweet spot for many ukulele players. I have found high-quality instruments in this range that have served me well for years, offering good sound quality, comfortable playability, and reliable tuning stability.
Plus, you may also come across unique designs or special features, such as pickups for amplification.
You can find high-quality instruments in this price range that will serve you well for years. You can expect good sound quality, comfortable playability, and reliable tuning stability.
You may also find some unique designs or special features, such as pickups for amplification.
When comparing with competitors like the Fender Montecito tenor ukulele (also in this list!), instruments in this range often stand out for their exceptional craftsmanship, versatile tonal characteristics, and innovative features such as built-in pickups for amplification.
While some ukuleles in this range may lack advanced features found in higher-end models, they still provide excellent value for the price and are ideal for players seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank.
PERFECT FOR: performers of all abilities
FEATURES: Crafted from solid mahogany, delivering such a big tone from a small instrument
OTHER INFO: Added warmth delivered from rosewood bridge and fingerboard
Cordoba 20CM Concert Ukulele
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Traditional appearance thanks to handmade design
- With a traditional concert shape that's perfect for little learners as well
- May not be ideal for those who are on a tight budget
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™.
PERFECT FOR: intermediate players to advanced ukulele players
FEATURES: Play with Fender's trademark tone
OTHER INFO: Enhanced resonance and sustain produced by solid koa top
Fender Montecito Tenor Ukulele
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Incredible warmth and projection, typical of the classic tenor body
- Delivers an effortlessly elegant aesthetic reflective of Californian culture
- Carefully sculpted into a tenor-shaped body for a crisp and well-balanced projection
- A bit more expensive than some other ukuleles in its class
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™.
$/£300-500
In this price range, you’re getting into professional-quality instruments. These ukuleles, with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, are often made from wood and offer exceptional sound and playability. You may also find more exotic woods or custom designs in this price range.
PERFECT FOR: ukulele enthusiasts and beginners alike
FEATURES: Deliver resonance and crisp clarity courtesy of an HPL build
OTHER INFO: Durability and quality come in the form of a climate-resilient construction
Martin 0XK Concert Ukulele, Highly Koa HPL
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Strum with vigour and passion, spruce bracing offers incredible robustness
- The pinnacle of Martin's craftsmanship at an affordable price
- Bringing wonderous tonal warmth balanced with twinkling clarity
- May not have the same tonal depth and complexity as a solid wood ukulele
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™.
PERFECT FOR: advanced players or professionals
FEATURES: Ready for stage and studio thanks to double active C1U pickup
OTHER INFO: Constructed solely from solid acacia, producing a bright and smooth sound
Flight Phantom All Solid Tenor Ukulele
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- The neck and fingerboard feature African mahogany and ebony for stability, warmth, and a crisp attack
- A traditional style ukulele, fit with modern features
- Keep your instrument protected on the road with included gig bag
- May be relatively expensive compared to other ukuleles
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™.
Over $/£500
If you’re a serious ukulele player or collector, you may be willing to invest in a high-end instrument.
I remember when I was considering upgrading to a high-end ukulele, I was amazed by the unparalleled sound quality, playability, and beauty that these instruments offer.
You may also find some unique features or custom designs that make these instruments truly one-of-a-kind.
However, remember that the price tag may not always reflect the actual quality of the instrument, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
PERFECT FOR: beginners and professionals
FEATURES: Crisp, balanced, crystal-clear sound flows from a beautiful koa construction
OTHER INFO: Sublime playability is offered by the comfortable shape and satin finish
Martin C1K Ukulele
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight and easy to play
- Concert shape delivers magical, rich sound with exceptional dynamics and depth
- Includes a padded gig bag to shield your uke from any knocks and scrapes
- A bit more expensive than some other ukuleles in its class
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™.
PERFECT FOR: intermediate and advanced players
FEATURES: Strong woody tones delivered from full acacia body
OTHER INFO: Enhanced string resonance and sustain thanks to fan bracing
Cordoba 35T Tenor Ukulele Acacia
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Firm lows and sparkling highs produced by the mahogany neck
- Safe and easy transportation with included polyfoam case
- Well-weighted with a high density and offers excellent resistance against decay
- The solid koa wood may require more maintenance and care than laminated materials
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™.
5 Tips for Choosing The Best Ukelele For You
1. Consider your budget and skill level when choosing a ukulele. If you’re starting, you don’t want to overspend on a high-end instrument, but you don’t want to settle for a low-quality uke that won’t sound good.
2. Think about the size and shape of the ukulele. There are four main types of ukuleles, each with a different sound and playability. Choose a size and shape that feels comfortable for you to play.
3. Pay attention to build quality and the materials used in the ukulele’s construction. Different woods and finishes can affect the sound quality and durability of the instrument.
4. Test out different ukuleles before making a purchase. Visit a music store for the best-sounding ukuleles or attend a uke festival to try out different models and see which ones sound and feel the best to you.
5. Consider your style and preferences when choosing a ukulele. Do you want a bright, cheerful sound or a more mellow, subdued tone? Do you prefer a traditional, classic look or a more modern, colourful design?
Choosing a ukulele that reflects your personality and tastes can make playing the ukulele more enjoyable.
How Much Does A Ukulele Cost
Summary
So, how much are ukuleles?
The cost can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type of ukulele, materials used, and other features. You can expect to pay anywhere from $/£50 to $/£3,000 or more for a ukulele.
You can find a good quality ukulele for around $/£50 or less if you’re a beginner. However, if you’re looking for better quality and sound, you should probably spend from $100 to $300, depending on the quality instrument you are looking for.
When choosing a ukulele, it’s important to consider your budget, skill level, and the type of ukulele sound you’re looking for. I’ve personally tested various types of ukuleles, including soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone, and noticed that each has its own unique sound and tone.
You can consider buying a toy ukulele for less than $/£35 if you’re on a tight budget. However, keep in mind that the sound quality may not be great.
On the other hand, if you’re a professional musician or a serious player, you may want to invest in a high-end, customized ukulele that can cost more than $/£600.
Ultimately, the cost of a ukulele depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. With so many options, you can find a ukulele that fits your style and personality.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, a ukulele can be a great investment that brings joy and music to your life!
Before you go…
Do take a look at our guide on tuning a Ukulele – you may find it helpful!
While I appreciate the effort in listing out the price ranges for different types of ukuleles, I think it oversimplifies the impact of craftsmanship and material quality on the instrument’s cost. It’s not just about the type or size; the build quality can significantly affect both price and performance. For instance, a custom ukulele crafted by a renowned luthier using premium woods can offer a vastly superior sound experience compared to mass-produced models.
I must commend Lewis Turner for such a comprehensive guide on purchasing ukuleles. As someone who has just discovered the joy of music in their twilight years, I found the explanation on different types of ukuleles particularly enlightening. Opted for a Soprano, given its classic sound and portability. The joy it’s brought into my life is immeasurable. To anyone hesitant about diving into this hobby, I say it’s never too late to start!
hey Lewis Turner, great breakdown on those price ranges man. was totally lost in the sea of ukes online and this kinda puts things in perspective. got myself a sweet deal on a tenor uke for just under 200 bucks. plays like a dream, and I think I have you to thank for pointing me in the right direction. keep up the good work, dude. for anyone else reading, if you’re stuck on what to get, really consider what you wanna play. like, if you’re into traditional stuff, soprano is cool. but for more versatility? tenor or concert all the way.
can someone tell me if ukuleles under $50 are any good? kinda on a tight budget here but wanna start learning.
I’ve been considering purchasing an electric ukulele. Can anyone explain the main benefits of going electric over traditional? I am curious about the versatility and sound amplification for small gatherings.
hey, so i saw u mentioned electric ukuleles n i gotta admit that’s kinda cool. didn’t even know that was a thing. how do they stack up against regular ones in terms of sound and playability? anyone got insights? looking to maybe snag one but not sure if it’s more of a gimmick or actually legit for playing.
Electric ukes are legit! They’re awesome for gigs if you want to amp up or add effects. Still keeps that sweet uke vibe but with more versatility.
So I got a concert ukulele based on this, was choosing between soprano and concert. Gotta say, happy with the choice. Concert ukes have that fuller sound, right?
Just starting out, would you recommend the concert for beginners too?
Yeah, they definitely have a richer tone than sopranos. Good choice!
Just picked up my first ukulele after reading this. Went for a concert uke based on the guide, and I’m loving the deeper tones. Cheers for the straightforward advice, Lewis Turner. It’s refreshing to see something so clear without needing to wade through jargon.