Best
Ukulele for Beginners
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Overall: With geared tuners and premium Aquila Nylgut strings for reliably warm sounds and stable tuning
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Best Feature: All-Mahogany Body Creates Plenty Of Sweet Sonic Goodness
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Tenor Ukelele
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Overall: Produces a rich and resonant sound that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking
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Best Feature: ade From Solid Hawaiian Koa Wood, Giving It A Warm And Balanced Tone
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Concert 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
Choosing between a Concert and a Tenor Ukulele can be an exciting journey into the enchanting world of these delightful instruments. Imagine the crisp, bright sounds of the ukulele carrying you to a sunlit beach, the warm breeze rustling through palm trees. With the Concert size, it’s like holding a comfy, midsize friend, offering a mellow tone while being easy to manage. Meanwhile, the Tenor, slightly bigger, gives richer, deeper notes, perfect for those who enjoy a fuller sound. Each has its charm, much like deciding between a refreshing lemonade or a zesty lime soda on a summer’s day. Some enthusiasts lean towards the Concert for its balanced feel, much like choosing comfort over flair, while others adore the Tenor’s extended range, a bit like enjoying a symphony compared to a duet. Dive into the world of ukuleles and discover what makes your musical heart sing, as both are sure to bring a spark to everyday melodies and inspire countless strumming sessions.
The biggest difference is their size—concert ukuleles are about 23 inches long, while tenor ukuleles are 26 inches long.
If you’ve ever wondered which fits your playing style better, you’re not the only one. Tenor ukuleles have tighter string tension and are easier for bigger hands to play, so they might be right for you.
Ready to jump into the musical journey of choosing the right ukulele for you? Let’s start playing and find out which will make you the happiest!
Concert vs Tenor Ukulele: What's the Difference?
Size
A concert ukulele is typically 23 inches long, while a tenor ukulele is 26 inches long. The body of the tenor ukulele is also about 10% larger than the body size of the concert ukulele. The scale length of a tenor ukulele is 17 inches, while a concert ukulele has a scale length of 15 inches.
Tone
The larger size of the tenor ukulele gives it a deeper, fuller sound than baritone ukuleles, with more notes and a resonant, almost bass-y tone. The concert ukulele, on the other hand, has a brighter, more traditional ukulele sound.
Sound
The sound of a ukulele is affected by its size and the materials used to make it. Concert ukuleles are typically made of mahogany or koa wood, while tenor ukuleles are often made of koa or spruce wood. The type of wood used affects the overall sound of the ukulele.
Player Preference
Ultimately, the choice between a full concert uke and a tenor ukulele depends on player preference. A concert ukulele might be the right choice if you’re looking for a brighter, traditional ukulele sound. A tenor ukulele might be better if you prefer a deeper, fuller sound.
Design and Build
The main difference between concert and tenor ukuleles is their size and shape. The tenor ukulele has a larger body and longer neck, which can result in a deeper and richer tone. It also typically has a wider fretboard, providing more space for fingerpicking and complex chord formations.
On the other hand, the concert ukulele has a smaller body and shorter neck, resulting in a brighter and more traditional ukulele sound. It is generally more compact and easier to travel with, making it a popular choice for musicians.
Playability
Regarding playability, the main difference between concert and tenor ukuleles lies in their size and fretboard length.
The tenor ukulele has a larger body and longer fretboard, which can make it more challenging for beginners or those with smaller hands to play.
However, the larger size can also provide more room for fingerpicking and complex chord formations.
On the other hand, the concert ukulele has a smaller body and shorter fretboard, making it easier for beginners to play and handle. However, the standard ukulele tuning, concert size and limited frets may hinder those looking to play more advanced music.
Price Range and Quality
Both the concert and tenor ukes can vary widely regarding price range and quality. You can find low-tier concert ukuleles for around $/£30 to $/£40, while low-tier tenor ukuleles can cost around $/£50 to $/£60. However, the price range can go up significantly for high-end models.
The quality of the ukulele can also affect its price. Higher quality materials and craftsmanship will typically result in a higher price tag.
However, it’s important to note that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality. Researching and reading reviews is important to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Suitability for
Beginners and Professionals
If you’re a beginner, you might wonder which type of ukulele is best for you. The good news is that concert and tenor ukuleles are great for beginners. They’re both easy to play and produce a beautiful sound that will inspire you to keep playing.
However, there are a few differences between the two that you should consider. The main difference is the size. The tenor ukulele is a bit larger than the concert ukulele, which means it has a longer scale length and a wider fretboard. This can make it easier to play certain chords, especially if you have larger hands.
On the other hand, the concert ukulele is smaller and more portable, making it a great option if you plan on taking it with you on the go. It’s also a bit more affordable than the tenor ukulele, which is something to consider if you’re on a budget.
If you’re a professional ukulele player, you might be looking for an instrument that can produce a wider range of tones and sounds. In this case, the tenor ukulele might be a better option for you. Its larger size and longer scale length allow for more complex chord voicings and a deeper, richer sound.
However, it’s important to note that the concert ukulele is still a great option for professionals. It’s a versatile instrument that can be used in various musical genres, and its smaller size can make it easier to play complex chord progressions.
Similarities between Concert and Tenor Ukuleles
Tuning and Playability
Both concert and tenor ukuleles are typically tuned to the same standard tuning, G-C-E-A. This means you can use the same chord shapes and scales on both types of ukuleles, making it easy to switch between them.
Both concert and tenor ukuleles are generally easy to play, even for beginners. They have a similar fretboard size and string spacing, which makes it easy to play chords and melodies.
Material and Fretboard
Concert and tenor ukuleles are often made from the same materials, such as mahogany, koa, or spruce. This means they can have a similar tone and sound quality, depending on the materials used.
The fretboard on concert and tenor ukuleles is typically made from the same material, such as rosewood or ebony.
This means that the feel and playability of the fretboard is often similar on both types of ukuleles.
Number of Strings
Both concert and tenor ukuleles typically have four strings tuned to the same standard tuning.
This makes it easy to switch between the two types of ukuleles without learning a new ukulele tuning or re-learn chord shapes.
3 Recommended
Concert Ukeleles
A concert ukulele is an excellent choice for beginners due to its size and versatility. With a slightly larger body and fretboard, it offers a more comfortable playing experience. It also produces a sweet and warm tone, making it ideal for learning chords and strumming patterns.
Start your musical journey with a concert ukulele from our recommendations!
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™.
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: 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™.
3 Recommended
Tenor Ukeleles
A tenor ukulele is a larger version of the traditional ukulele, known for its deeper and richer sound. It is a popular choice among musicians for its versatility and comfortable size.
Discover the beauty of playing these tenor ukulele and explore their unique tonal qualities.
PERFECT FOR: a variety of playing styles
FEATURES: Made from solid Hawaiian Koa wood, giving it a warm and balanced tone
OTHER INFO: Features a simple and elegant design
Martin T1K 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!
- Produces a rich and resonant sound that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking
- Boasts classic Martin quality
- Comes with a padded gig bag
- 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 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
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™.
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
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!
- 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
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™.
Tenor Ukulele vs Concert
Summary
Choosing between tenor vs concert ukulele depends on your preferences and playing style.
Quick Breakdown:
Tenor Ukulele:
- Larger size (26 inches).
- More frets and a longer scale length (17-18 inches).
- Fuller sound and increased tension.
- Better for advanced players or those with larger hands.
Concert Ukulele:
- Smaller size (23 inches).
- Shorter scale length (15-16 inches).
- Bright sound and easier to handle.
- Ideal for beginners or those with smaller hands.
Ultimately, the choice between a concert and tenor uke a concert ukulele comes down to personal preference. Both have pros and cons and can be great instruments to play.
I hope this helps you decide which ukulele suits you best! Happy strumming!
Before you go…
If you’re curious or interested in upgrading to bigger stringed instruments, check out this next article to learn more about the 18 Best Acoustic Guitar Under 500!
Interesting read. Thanks.
I thought tenor was someone who sings, not a ukulele. Next you’ll tell me there’s a bass singer ukulele too! 😂
Gotta say, while the differences are well pointed out, nothing beats trying them out yourself. Specs on paper are one thing but the feel and vibe of a uke can tell you more about what suits you.
I’ve played both concert and tenor ukuleles for over a decade, and I found the insights in your comparison very accurate. The distinctions in tone, size, and player preference are crucial for anyone considering one over the other. However, I believe the playability factor is subjective and greatly depends on the individual’s hand size and playing style. In my experience, beginners might prefer the concert for its manageability, while professionals might lean towards the tenor for its broader range and fuller sound. Nonetheless, both types have their unique charm and application depending on the music genre and player’s skill level. It would be useful for readers to see some examples of music pieces best suited for each ukulele type to contextualize their differences further.
So true, UkuleleDave! Any music piece suggestions for a beginner on concert uke?
hey, thanks for the info but as a dad out of the loop, what would be the best option for a complete beginner? my daughter is 8. Looking for something friendly for small hands.
Actually, consider a soprano as well. They’re even smaller than concerts and might be easier for her to handle. But, between your options, concert ukes are great for kids.
UkeDad77, for young beginners, a concert ukulele might be more manageable and comfortable for her to start with.
loved the article! always thought tenor was just a bigger concert but i see there’s more to it lol. keep up the great work!
Just started my ukulele journey and this guide is super helpful, Lewis! The differences between a concert and tenor uke are clearer now. Cheers!
Hey Lewis Turner, I was really curious about the sound difference between a concert and tenor ukulele after reading your article. Could you dive a bit deeper into how the size affects their sound quality? I’ve played guitar for a few years and I’m thinking of picking up the ukulele next. Wondering if the tenor’s size gives it a richer sound compared to the concert? Thanks for shedding light on this!