Best
Ukulele for Beginners
MELLOW LOWS
-
Overall: Classic soprano size delivers an instantly recognisable high-end shimmer
-
Best Feature: All-mahogany body creates plenty of sweet sonic goodness
-
TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Baritone Ukulele
-
Overall: Professional look, solid mahogany top, back, and sides for a warm and full-bodied sound
-
Best Feature: Built-in EQ and tuner for easy amplification and tuning on stage
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Versatile Ukulele
-
Overall: Traditional appearance concert shape that's perfect for little learners as well
-
Best Feature: Crafted from solid mahogany, delivering such a big tone from a small instrument
-
TedScore™: 9.5/10
Are you ready to embark on a ukulele adventure? Well, I’ve got some exciting news for you!
Finding the best Ukulele on amazoncan be like searching for a needle in a haystack. With a gazillion brands, sizes, and styles to choose from, it’s easy to get overwhelmed.
But don’t fret (sorry about that…). I’m here to help you out!
In this article, I’ll be your trusty ukulele game guide as I take you on a wild ride through the best ukuleles on Amazon. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, I have something you’ll love.
Understanding the Ukulele
Types of Ukuleles
There are four main types of ukuleles: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone.
Soprano ukuleles are the smallest and most traditional type, while concert ukuleles are slightly larger and produce a fuller sound.
Tenor ukes are larger still and are often used by professional musicians. Baritone ukuleles are the largest type and produce a deep, rich sound similar to a guitar.
Ukulele Construction
The ukulele is a small, four-stringed instrument typically made from wood.
The ukulele’s body comprises three parts: the top, the back, and the sides.
The top is the part of the ukulele facing the player responsible for producing the sound. The back and sides of the ukulele are also crucial for producing sound and contribute to the instrument’s overall tone.
The neck of the ukulele is attached to the body and is where the strings are held.
The fretboard is located on top of the neck, where the player presses down on the strings to produce different notes. The strings are typically made from nylon and are tuned to G-C-E-A.
Brief History of the Ukulele
The ukulele originated in Hawaii in the late 19th century and was inspired by Portuguese stringed instruments.
The name “ukulele” translates to “jumping flea” in Hawaiian and is said to have been given to the instrument because of the way a player’s fingers jump around the fretboard when playing.
The ukulele gained popularity in the United States in the early 20th century and has become a beloved instrument worldwide.
Today, the ukulele is often associated with Hawaiian music and used in various genres, including pop, rock, and folk.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ukulele
When choosing a ukulele, several factors must be considered to ensure you get the best one for your needs. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind:
Ukuleles come in four main sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. Each size has its unique sound and feel, so it’s important to choose one that fits your playing style and preferences.
Soprano
This is the smallest and most traditional size of the ukulele. It has a bright, cheerful sound and is great for beginners or those with smaller hands. It’s also the most portable, making it a great choice for travel or taking to gigs.
Concert
This is slightly larger than the soprano ukuleles and has a fuller, richer sound. It’s a popular choice for intermediate players or those who want a ukulele that’s still portable but has a bit more depth to its sound.
Tenor
This is larger than the other concert uke and has an even richer, more resonant sound. It’s a great choice for advanced players or those who want a ukulele with a more professional sound.
Baritone
This is the largest size of the ukulele and has a deep, rich sound that’s more similar to a guitar than a traditional ukulele.
It’s a great choice for those who want a more versatile ukulele that can be used for a wider range of music styles.
When choosing a ukulele, consider the size and portability that will best suit your needs and playing style.
Remember that larger ukuleles may have a richer sound but may also be less portable and more difficult to play for those with smaller hands.
2. Materials and Build Quality
Mahogany
Due to its warm and rich tone, mahogany is popular for ukulele construction. Solid mahogany ukuleles are highly sought after for their superior sound quality, but they can be expensive.
On the other hand, Mahogany body ukuleles are more affordable and still offer excellent sound quality.
Acacia Wood
Acacia wood is another popular choice for ukulele construction. It’s known for its bright and punchy tone, making it a great option for players who prefer a more lively sound.
Acacia wood ukuleles are also highly durable, making them an excellent choice for players who frequently travel with their instrument.
Hawaiian Koa
Hawaiian Koa is considered to be the best wood for ukulele construction. It’s known for its warm and balanced tone, making it a favourite among professional players.
Koa ukuleles are also highly prized for their beautiful grain patterns, ranging from straight to curly.
When it comes to build quality, looking for ukuleles with solid wood tops, backs, and sides is essential. Solid wood construction offers superior sound quality and durability compared to laminated wood.
Also, look for ukuleles with high-quality tuners and bridge pins, as these components can greatly affect the instrument’s playability and tuning stability.
2. Materials and Build Quality
When choosing the best ukulele, sound and tone are two of the most important factors. A good ukulele should produce a clear, vibrant sound pleasing to the ear.
Here are some sub-sections that will help you understand the sound and tone of a ukulele.
Depth and Volume
The depth and volume of a ukulele’s sound depend on the size of the instrument.
Larger ukuleles tend to produce a deeper, richer sound with more volume, while smaller ukuleles have a brighter, more treble-heavy sound.
If you want a ukulele with a deep, resonant sound, consider a tenor or baritone ukulele. A soprano or concert ukulele may be better if you prefer a brighter, more cheerful sound.
Resonance and Projection
Resonance refers to how the sound resonates within the instrument’s body, while projection refers to how well the sound travels through the air.
A ukulele with good resonance will produce a clear, well-defined sound, while a ukulele with good projection will be heard loud and clear even in a large room.
Warm, Rich Sound
Finally, a good ukulele should produce a warm, rich sound pleasing to the ear. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and careful craftsmanship.
Look for a ukulele with a solid wood top, as this will produce a warmer, more resonant sound than a laminate top.
Mahogany and koa are two popular kinds of wood used in ukulele construction, as they produce a warm, rich sound perfect for this versatile instrument.
4. Playability and User Experience
Playability is one of the most important factors when buying a ukulele. After all, you want an instrument that’s easy to play and will allow you to learn and progress on your ukulele journey.
Beginner Ukuleles
For those just starting on their ukulele journey, playability is especially important. You want an instrument that is easy to play and won’t frustrate you with difficult chords or buzzing strings.
Fortunately, there are many great beginner ukuleles available on Amazon that offer excellent playability.
When searching for a beginner ukulele, look for models with low action, meaning the strings are close to the fretboard. This makes it easier to press down on the strings and play chords.
Plus, a ukulele with geared tuners will make tuning your instrument easier and keep it in tune.
Intermediate Ukuleles
Playability is still essential for intermediate players, but you may also want to consider other factors like tone and build quality.
Fortunately, there are many fantastic intermediate ukuleles available on Amazon that offer both great playability and excellent sound.
When searching for an intermediate ukulele, look for models with solid wood tops, which will provide better tone and resonance.
A ukulele with a broader neck will make playing more complex chords and fingerstyle patterns easier.
Versatility of Ukuleles
One of the great things about ukuleles is their versatility. They can play various musical genres, from folk and pop to jazz and blues.
When it comes to playability and user experience, the versatility of a ukulele is important to consider.
Look for ukuleles with various string options, such as nylon, fluorocarbon, or steel strings. This will allow you to experiment with different tones and styles of playing.
A ukulele with a pickup and preamp will also allow you to plug in and play through an amplifier or PA system.
Popular Ukulele Brands on Amazon
You’ll find many brands on Amazon if you want to buy a ukulele. Some of Amazon’s most popular ukulele brands offer a great balance of affordability and quality.
Martin Smith
Martin Smith is a well-known brand that offers a range of ukuleles suitable for beginners and intermediate players.
Their ukuleles come with a chord book and a bag, making it easy to start playing immediately.
The Martin Smith Soprano Ukulele is their best-selling ukulele on Amazon, with over 12,000 reviews.
Cordoba
Cordoba is a well-respected brand that produces high-quality ukuleles. The Cordoba is a popular choice among ukulele players on Amazon.
It features a mahogany top, back, and sides, and produces a warm, balanced tone.
Aquila
Aquila is a brand that specializes in ukulele strings. Their strings are made from a special type of nylon that produces a bright, clear sound.
Many ukulele players on Amazon recommend Aquila strings for their ukuleles.
Kala
Kala is another popular brand that offers a range of ukuleles suitable for beginners and professionals.
Their ukuleles come in various sizes and styles, from soprano to baritone and from traditional to modern designs.
Kala ukuleles are known for their high-quality construction and excellent sound.
Donner
Donner is a brand that offers affordable ukuleles without compromising on quality. Their ukuleles come with various accessories, including a bag, strap, and tuner.
Donner ukuleles are a great choice for beginners who want to start out playing ukulele without breaking the bank.
Other Popular Brands
Other popular ukulele brands on Amazon include Mahalo, Luna, and Oscar Schmidt. These brands offer a range of ukuleles suitable for different skill levels and playing styles.
You can find ukuleles in various colours and designs, from traditional to modern, to suit your taste.
Additional Features
Amazon has many options if you’re looking for a ukulele with some extra features. Here are some additional features to consider when choosing the best ukulele.
Electronics
If you plan on performing with your ukulele, you may want to consider an instrument with built-in electronics.
This will allow you to plug your ukulele into an amplifier or PA system, giving you more volume and control over your sound.
Some popular options on Amazon include the Kala KA-CEME Exotic Mahogany Concert Ukulele, which features a built-in EQ and tuner, and the Luna Tattoo Concert Ukulele, which has a preamp system with a built-in tuner.
Cutaway
A cutaway ukulele has a section of the body removed near the neck, allowing easier access to the higher frets. This can be especially useful for players who like solos or lead lines.
Some popular cutaway concert on Amazon include the Cordoba 20CM-CE Acoustic-Electric Concert Ukulele, which features a cutaway body and built-in electronics, and the Luna High Tide Koa Concert Cutaway Ukulele, which has a unique design and a built-in preamp.
Gig Bag
A gig bag is an essential accessory for any ukulele player, as it will protect your instrument from damage while you’re on the go. Some ukuleles on Amazon include a free gig bag, pick, and spare strings.
Suppose your chosen ukulele doesn’t come with a gig bag. In that case, you can also find various options separately, such as the Kala UB-S Soprano Ukulele Gig Bag and the Crossrock CRA400 Series Concert Ukulele Bag.
10 Best Ukuleles on Amazon
Kala Satin Mahogany KA-15S
Soprano Ukulele
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
- 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
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™.
Martin S1 Soprano Ukulele
FEATURES:
- Solid mahogany top, back, and sides for excellent sound quality
- Rosewood fingerboard and bridge for comfortable playability
- Bone nut and saddle for improved sustain and tone
OTHER INFO: Text
- Beautiful and classic design
- Exceptional sound quality both acoustically and amplified
- Comes with a gig bag for easy transportation
- Higher price point compared to other ukuleles
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™.
Martin C1K Ukulele
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
- 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
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™.
Kala KA-TE Electro-Acoustic Tenor Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: both stage and studio use
FEATURES: Emphasised lower mids resulting from mahogany construction
OTHER INFO: Perform with a flexible voicing thanks to the walnut's well-balanced sound
Kala KA-TE Electro-Acoustic Tenor Ukulele
- Classy and uniformed look attributable to a natural finish
- Ideal for players who enjoy the ukulele's natural warmth but require extra bass to support the sound
- Perfect for both stage and studio use
- May require a bit of adjustment to get the best sound out of the built-in electronics
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™.
Luna Tattoo Concert
Mahogany Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: learning, developing, and improving techniques
FEATURES: Has a unique design that is inspired by traditional Hawaiian body ornamentation
OTHER INFO: Made from mahogany, which gives it a warm and balanced tone
Luna Tattoo Concert
Mahogany Ukulele
- Produces a warm and resonant sound great for a variety of playing styles
- Concert size offers comfort with an extended playing range
- Luna travel bag included, perfect for taking on the road
- The design may not be to everyone's taste
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™.
Kala KA-15T Satin Mahogany Tenor Ukulele
FEATURES: Satin mahogany finish for a warm and rich tone
OTHER INFO: Aquila Super Nylgut strings for exceptional sound quality and durability
- Excellent sound projection and sustain
- Smooth and comfortable fretboard for easy playing
- Comes with a padded gig bag for convenient storage and transport
- Ideal for classroom use, practicing, and acoustic performance
- It may require some adjustments to achieve optimal intonation
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™.
Kala KA-BE Mahogany Baritone Ukulele, Satin
FEATURES: Solid mahogany top, back, and sides for a warm and full-bodied sound
OTHER INFO: Built-in EQ and tuner for easy amplification and tuning on stage
- Excellent sound quality and projection
- Built-in electronics for versatile use in various settings
- Comes with a padded gig bag for convenient storage and transport
- Higher price point compared to other ukuleles
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™.
Kamaka HF-3 Tenor Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: intermediate to advanced players
FEATURES: Made of solid koa wood for warm, rich tones
OTHER INFO: Highly durable and resistant to changes in temperature and humidity
Kamaka HF-3 Tenor Ukulele
- Designed with precision tuning
- Produces a rich, warm tone
- Handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques
- The relatively high 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™.
Cordoba 20CM Concert Ukulele
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
- 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
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™.
Kala KA-SMHC Mahogany
Concert Ukulele
PERFECT FOR: players needing a ukulele for the road, home or studio
FEATURES: Concert size provides versatility and portability
OTHER INFO: Solid mahogany body and neck
Kala KA-SMHC Mahogany
Concert Ukulele
- Rosewood fingerboard provides rich, complex overtones
- Reliable and long-lasting
- With tortoiseshell binding for a stunning aesthetic
- Equipped with Aquila Nylgut strings
- More expensive than other beginner ukuleles on the market
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™.
Best Ukulele on Amazon
Summary
You did it!
You’ve made it to the end of our epic journey through the best ukuleles on Amazon. We hope you’re feeling pumped and ready to take on the world of ukulele playing.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a perfect ukulele on Amazon. Just remember to take your time and consider your budget and personal preferences.
For a beginner, I’d recommend the Kala Satin Mahogany KA-15S. I think it strikes the right balance between affordability and quality. A couple of my students have this model, and they seem really happy with it.
So, there you have it! I hope our guide has been helpful in your search for the ultimate ukulele.
Now, go forth and strum your heart out!
Before you go…
Did you know keeping your ukulele in tune is the secret to unlocking its full potential?
That’s right! A perfectly tuned ukulele can make all the difference in your playing, and we’ve got the Ultimate Buyer’s Guide To The Best Ukulele Tuner to help you find the one out there.
So jump in, get ready to tune up, and unleash the magic!
Absolutely love this! I’ve been looking into music instruments for my kids to start learning, and the ukulele seems like a fantastic option. Your guide has been so helpful in understanding the different types and what to consider. Now, deciding between a soprano and concert for my 10 year old. Any advice?
Nice rundown on ukulele brands. Haven’t seen much about the crossover for guitarists, though. Would love more on that!
hey, i’m totally new to this, saw someone playing a ukulele at a park and it looked so fun. so for a total beginner, what’s a good one that’s not too pricey but still nice? got any suggestions?
Love that you included ukuleles with electronics! Being able to amp up is a game changer for small gatherings.
I hadn’t considered the importance of build materials. How substantial is the impact on sound between Mahogany and Acacia Wood?
Interesting you mention Hawaiian Koa for ukuleles. While it’s traditional, many other woods offer similar sound qualities, maybe even better durability. However, nothing beats Koa’s visual appeal in my book.
Thanks for breaking down the different types! Makes picking one for my niece so much easier.
Baritone ukuleles aren’t real ukuleles. Change my mind.
They are too real ukuleles, just a bit deeper in tone. Broaden your horizons, man.
Hey Robert Emery, great article! I’m torn between getting a soprano or concert uke. Which one do you think is better for beginners who have small hands but still want a full sound?