So you've decided to purchase your very first ukulele. Congratulations! This small, four-stringed instrument can be a lot of fun for both beginners and experienced players alike. And it is more than certain that you will be snowed under choices from tons of brands and producers out there.
There are a number of differences among various models in terms of performance, style, and other features. With that in mind, it's important to choose the right brand and model of ukulele to fit your individual playing style.
So, to give you a hand, we'll take a look at some of the best ukulele brands on the market today, as well as help you understand the difference between ukulele brands. I have tried to be as specific and informative as possible. Even when you are new to the ukulele or to music in general, you would be able to grasp everything with ease. Happy strumming!
Table of Contents
What makes the difference between ukulele brands?
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right brand of ukulele for you. We will discuss some of the most important factors to keep in mind when making your decision.
Materials
The first thing to consider when choosing a ukulele brand is the materials that the instrument is made from. The type of wood that the ukulele is crafted from can greatly affect the sound of the instrument.
Solid wood is often considered to be the best type of material for ukuleles, as it produces a richer and fuller sound. However, solid wood instruments are also typically more expensive than ukuleles made from other materials.
If you're on a budget, you may want to consider a ukulele made from laminate wood. Laminate ukuleles are often just as durable as solid wood instruments, but they tend to have a brighter sound.
Generally, mahogany and koa are considered to be the best woods for ukuleles, as they produce a warm, rich sound. However, there are many other types of wood that can be used to make a great-sounding ukulele. If you are unsure about what type of wood is best for you, it is always a good idea to consult with an experienced music retailer or luthier.
Plastic ukuleles are also available, but they are generally not as high quality as ukuleles made from wood. If you're looking for a toy ukulele or a beginner instrument, a plastic ukulele may be a good option for you. However, if you're serious about playing the ukulele, we recommend that you choose an instrument made from wood.
Construction
The construction of the ukulele is also important to consider when choosing a brand. Ukuleles can be made with either all-wood construction or partial wood construction.
All-wood construction means that the entire body of the ukulele is made from wood. Partial wood construction means that the body of the ukulele is made from a combination of wood and other materials, such as plastic or metal.
Generally, all-wood construction is considered to be the best type of construction for ukuleles, as it produces a richer sound. However, all-wood construction is also typically more expensive than partial wood construction.
If you're on a budget, you may want to consider a ukulele with partial wood construction. Partial wood construction ukuleles can still produce a great sound, and they are often more affordable than all-wood models.
Finish
A high-quality finish will help to protect the wood and keep it from warping or cracking over time. A well-crafted finish can also enhance the look of your ukulele and make it easier to clean.
Generally, lacquer is considered to be the best type of finish for a ukulele. This type of finish helps to protect the wood and enhance the beauty of the grain. However, lacquer can be difficult to repair if it becomes damaged.
Other types of finishes, such as oil or varnish, can also be used on ukuleles. These finishes are typically less expensive than lacquer,
Fretwork
The fretwork on a ukulele is also an important consideration. The quality of the fretwork will affect the playability of the instrument.
Ukuleles with poor quality fretwork can be difficult to play and may cause the strings to buzz when you press down on them. On the other hand, ukuleles with excellent fretwork will be easy to play and will have a smooth, comfortable action.
When choosing a ukulele, we recommend that you choose an instrument with high-quality fretwork. This will ensure that your ukulele is enjoyable to play and will last for many years.
Built-in Amp or PA system
Some ukuleles come with built-in amplifiers or PA systems. These features can be great for playing gigs or for practicing at home. However, they are not necessary for all players.
If you're just starting out, we recommend that you choose a ukulele without an amp or PA system. You can always add one later if you decide that you need it.
What Is The Best Ukulele Brands?
A ukulele is a small, four-stringed instrument that has become popular in recent years. It’s often used as a beginner’s instrument because it’s relatively easy to learn how to play. If you’re interested in picking up a ukulele, or you just want to learn more about the best brands on the market today, read on for our recommendations. We’ll cover some of the most popular ukulele brands and what makes them stand out from the competition.
Kala Ukulele
For the next brand, we would suggest the Kala ones. This brand is not only for new learners, but it is also suitable for skilled music learners to practice their skills. Kala brand offers thousands of Ukulele styles to choose such as Kala Elite USA, Cross over, and Solid Top.
This brand produces a number of ukulele lines for entry and the top of the range, notably with the elite US product line. They are simple but very reliable.
However, they don’t offer many options that use elite tonewoods like koa. Kala does a great job of making an instrument for all levels.
I wrote a detailed Kala ukulele review here, make sure to take a look at it if you are interested in this brand.
Martin Ukuleles
Martin Uke is worth your try as its craftsmanship focuses on every detail and quality of tone. You can easily recognize this brand by its monochrome feature. Moreover, Martin is one of the most luxurious ukulele brands that are used by some of the most popular artists in the world.
Martin is not only about quality and design but also about great sound. If you want a ukulele with a classic and sophisticated look, then this brand is for you. It will definitely satisfy even the most demanding customers.
Moreover, a wide range of prices has made this Uke brand reach many customer targets. It fluctuates from approximately $300 to $5000.
Luna Ukuleles
Luna is one of those ukulele brands that are not too famous but still produce high-quality products. It is a great ukulele for beginners as it is very affordable. You can find a lot of different designs and colors from this brand, which makes it very attractive to new learners.
Even though it is not as popular as the other brands on this list, Luna still offers a lot of good features that make it worth your try. For example, its sound quality is excellent, and it has a stylish design. If you are looking for a good quality ukulele without spending a lot of money, Luna is a great option.
If you go to Luna's official website, you will be immersed in the Uke world. On this website, you can find unique styles of Uke from vintage to modern looks.
Besides, we highly recommend this brand as it has a wide range of prices for customers to choose from. Indeed, you can even find a price under 500$ here.
Cordoba Ukulele
Cordoba is a brand of musical instrument that has been on the market since 1997. It is known for its different sizes and for being equipped with pickups, which allows for amplification. This makes it a great choice for live or studio purposes.
The company uses high-quality materials, such as mahogany, to make its products. Cordoba ukuleles are known for their excellent sound quality and craftsmanship. If you are looking for a well-made, affordable ukulele, Cordoba is a great option.
Lanikai
One of the most popular ukulele brands on the market is Lanikai. Based in Hawaii, Lanikai takes advantage of the region's rich musical heritage to produce high-quality instruments that are beloved by musicians around the world.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, a Lanikai ukulele is sure to bring a smile to your face. The company offers a wide range of models to suit every need and budget, from simple soprano ukuleles to sophisticated tenor instruments.
And with their stunning finish and attention to detail, Lanikai ukuleles are as many works of art as they are musical instruments. If you're looking for a ukulele that will bring the Aloha spirit into your home, look no further than Lanikai.
Fender
Fender is one of the most trusted names in musical instruments, and their ukuleles are no exception. Fender is a well-known American company that produces high-quality musical instruments, such as guitars, basses, and ukuleles. The company was founded in 1946 by Leo Fender, and it has since become one of the most popular brands in the music industry.
Fender ukuleles are known for their excellent sound quality and craftsmanship. Made from a variety of wood types, including koa, mahogany, and maple, Fender ukuleles are truly a Symbol of Aloha. If you are looking for a high-quality ukulele, Fender is a great choice.
Whether you're looking for a soprano, concert, or tenor ukulele, Fender has an instrument that will suit your needs. And with a variety of finish options available, you're sure to find a ukulele that's perfect for your personal style. If you're ready to take your music to the next level, consider investing in a Fender ukulele. You won't be disappointed.
Mahalo
Mahalo ukuleles are some of the most popular instruments on the market, and for good reason. They offer a wide range of sizes and styles to suit any player, and their construction is top-notch.
Mahalo ukuleles are made from high-quality mahogany, which gives them a rich, warm sound. They also have a unique patented string-lock system that keeps the strings in place, even during vigorous playing.
And for those who appreciate the visual appeal of their instrument, Mahalo ukuleles come in a variety of colors and finishes. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, a Mahalo ukulele is sure to bring hours of enjoyment.
Oscar Schmidt
Oscar Schmidt is another well-respected name in the world of musical instruments. And their ukuleles are some of the best on the market.
Oscar Schmidt ukuleles are known for their quality construction and beautiful design. They're also very affordable, which makes them a great choice for budget-conscious musicians.
Whether you're looking for a soprano, concert, or tenor ukulele, Oscar Schmidt has an instrument that will suit your needs. So if you're ready to take your music to the next level, consider investing in an Oscar Schmidt ukulele. You won't be disappointed.
Lohanu
Lohanu is a relatively new brand, but they're already making a big name for themselves in the world of ukuleles. Lohanu ukuleles are known for their quality craftsmanship, beautiful design, and affordable prices.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, a Lohanu ukulele is sure to bring hours of enjoyment. And with their wide range of sizes and styles, you're sure to find an instrument that's perfect for your needs. So if you're looking for a high-quality ukulele at an unbeatable price, look no further than Lohanu.
Kamaka
Kamaka Ukulele is a Hawaii-based company that has been crafting quality ukuleles since 1916. Kamaka ukuleles are known for their distinctive koa wood construction, which gives them a warm and resonant sound.
Kamaka ukuleles are also very well-made, with careful attention to detail in every aspect of their construction. As a result, Kamaka ukuleles are widely considered to be some of the finest ukuleles in the world.
Kamaka ukuleles are played by some of the most popular musicians in the world, including Jake Shimabukuro, Herb Ohta Jr., and James Hill. Kamaka ukuleles are truly a Symbol of Aloha, and they continue to bring joy to music lovers around the globe.
Kanile’a
Founded in 1998, Kanile’a ukuleles are some of the best in the world. They are handcrafted on the island of Kauai in Hawaii, and each one is made with great care and attention to detail.
The wood used for Kanile’a ukuleles is specially selected for its beauty and acoustic properties, and the finish is applied by hand. Made from a variety of wood types, including koa, mahogany, and maple, Kanile’a ukuleles are known for their rich tone and beautiful craftsmanship.
This results in a truly unique instrument that sounds as good as it looks. Kanile’a ukuleles are also very well-made, and they will last for many years with proper care. If you are looking for a high-quality ukulele, Kanile’a is a great choice.
How do I know if my ukulele is good quality?
There are a few things you can look for to determine if your ukulele is of good quality. First, check to see if the instrument is made from solid wood or laminate. Solid wood instruments will generally produce a richer, warmer sound than laminate instruments.
Take a look at the construction of the ukulele. Make sure that the seams are tight and that there are no gaps or cracks in the wood. Also, check to see if the strings are well-centered on the bridge and nut. These factors will all affect the playability and sound quality of your ukulele.
Finally, give the ukulele a good once-over to make sure it looks well-made. If it looks cheaply made, it likely is. A good quality ukulele will have a nice finish and be free of any blemishes or irregularities.
If you keep these things in mind, you should be able to tell if your ukulele is of good quality. Remember, a higher price doesn't always mean better quality. So do your research and choose an instrument that's right for you.
The Ukulele Brand That You Should Avoid Buying
Many people have asked us about the Ukulele brand that they should stay away from. The advice is different from individual to individual.
However, from our experience, there are specific brands of Uke that you should avoid buying. Let’s have a look at the details:
Keep Away From Chinese Brands
Our first advice is to watch out if the item is made in China. We don’t mean all of them are not reliable, but we all know China is a huge manufacturer of the world.
Therefore, besides high-quality products, there is also a high risk of buying fake and low-quality products.
For example, some products have the brand name of Makala Uke, but they possess poor quality. As time goes by, you may have to spend time repairing the instrument; in the worst case, you will have to replace it with a better item.
Thus, if you are purchasing a musical product from China, be sure that you are working directly with reputable manufacturers or via their official stores.
Rethink Before Buying Cheap Brands
Honestly, each brand has its positive and negative traits.
But if you will see the negative aspects outweigh the benefits of cheap brands of products.
Playing music on these musical instruments brings players distorted sound and abnormal tones that negatively influence their performance.
On the other hand, many Uke uses plastic bags which reduce the products’ quality, and they are also harmful to the environment. On the list of cheap brands, we‘d like to name several names such as Huawind, Vangoa, Kaka, Ammoon, Vangoa, and the Hricane.
If you see these brands appear on your searching screen, check the reviews from previous customers carefully.
Kmise
Kmise is the Uke brand that we want to recall here.
For musical players, it is undeniable that these items are okay brands of guitars that they can buy at very affordable prices.
As mentioned above, besides positive traits, these brands also have their negative features such as narrow strings gap, breakage issues, and ridges on the wood. Furthermore, some customers have found the misuse of original materials like laminated wood instead of “solid koa”.
Therefore, it causes a huge impact on the sound quality of the Uke later. For musical experts, there are some technical errors on the Uke they can easily fix as they have good knowledge of instrument structure. However, it is not the same for beginners. They might find it is struggling to adjust the errors, even the small issues.
FAQs
Which ukulele brand is best for beginners?
In general, however, there are a few brands that stand out as being particularly well-suited for beginners. These brands include Kala, Cordoba, Lohanu, Donner and Luna. They offer a wide range of ukuleles at different price points, so you can find an instrument that suits your budget and needs.
Each of these brands also produces high-quality instruments that are designed to be easy to play. So if you're looking for a ukulele that's easy to learn on, one of these brands is likely to be a good option.
What is the best wood for a ukulele?
There are a few different types of wood that are commonly used for ukuleles, each with its own unique properties. Koa is a Hawaiian wood that is often used for ukuleles, and it provides
Do ukuleles sound better with age?
Only solid wood ukuleles will improve with age. The wood will dry out and the tone will become more mellow and focused. Laminate and plastic ukuleles, on the other hand, will not improve with age.
So if you're looking for an instrument that will sound better as it ages, make sure to choose a solid wood ukulele. With proper care, it will last for many years and only get better with age.
Do expensive ukuleles sound better?
Yes, in general, more expensive ukuleles will sound better than less expensive ones. This is because they are made from higher quality materials and often have better construction.
However, this doesn't mean that you need to spend a lot of money to get a good-sounding ukulele. There are plenty of affordable instruments that sound great. So don't feel like you need to break the bank to get a good ukulele. Just do your research and choose an instrument that's right for you.
Are ukuleles worth buying?
If you're looking for a fun and easy-to-play instrument, then yes, ukuleles are definitely worth buying. They are relatively inexpensive, and they offer a wide range of sounds. Plus, they're small and portable, so you can take them with you wherever you go. So if you're thinking about buying a ukulele, go for it! You won't regret it.
Final Thoughts
Ukuleles are becoming more popular every day. They are a great way to learn how to play an instrument and they sound great too. You do not need to go bankrupt to buy a ukulele. Good beginner ukuleles can range between fifty and one hundred dollars. Plastic ukuleles are also available in many different colors. Once you have experienced the instrument, then consider a more expensive model made of natural wood for the best playing experience.
While there are many different brands of ukuleles available, we believe that the best ukulele brand overall is Kala. Their instruments are well-made and sound great. They also offer a wide variety of options, so you can find the perfect ukulele for your needs. If you’re looking for a quality ukulele, we recommend checking out Kala’s lineup.
Hopefully, this article can provide you with all the crucial information on what is the best ukulele brand. If you have already got in mind what to buy, then hurry up and hit the music store right now!
