Ukulele types – Embarking on a Ukulele Adventure: An In-Depth Guide
Originating from Hawaii, the ukulele has won hearts worldwide with its unique sound and versatility. Today, we’ll embark on an exciting journey, exploring the diverse types and sizes of ukuleles, understanding their unique traits, and discovering their differences.
The Diverse World of Ukuleles
Ukuleles come in a variety of sizes, shapes, types, materials, and colors, each boasting a unique sound and set of features. Let’s dive into it.
Sizes of Ukuleles
We start with the normal Ukuleles.
Ukuleles come in various sizes, each with its own unique sound and playability:
- Sopranino Ukulele: The smallest ukulele, also called piccolo, bambino, or “pocket uke”. This ukulele might be a bit difficult to find as this is not a common size. In fact, there are also sizes even smaller than the sopranino: the sopranissimo, the iuke and the nano ukulele.
- Soprano Ukulele, or the Standard. The second smallest, this is the original and the most traditional size of ukulele. It has a bright and happy sound that people often associate with ukuleles.
- Concert Ukulele: Slightly larger than the soprano, the concert ukulele has a fuller sound and a bit more space between the frets. The Concert Ukulele was developed in the 1920’s.
- Tenor Ukulele: Developed right after the Concert Ukulele. Larger still, the tenor ukulele has a deeper, warmer sound. It’s a favorite among professional ukulele players.
- Baritone Ukulele: From the 1940’s. The largest ukulele and it is tuned differently from the rest. It has a deep, rich sound, more similar to a guitar. A Baritone is “always” tuned linear.
- Bass Ukulele: From 2009, it is also not so common. Tuned like a traditional bass guitar, these ukuleles provide a low-end rhythm.
- Contrabass Ukulele: Finally, the latest of the big ukuleles from 2012.
And it’s more:
In addition to this, some of the producers have ukuleles with a longer neck than normal. For example, these are called Super Soprano, Super Concert, Super Tenor, and Super Baritone.

Ukulele Sizes Comparison Chart. Foto: Guitarlobby.com
And, if this wasn’t enough with different sizes, there are several variants with different numbers of strings. From 4 to 8, as well as some with a double neck. Read on and read also the post about Ukulele relatives and variations.
Pocket Ukulele — The Tiniest of the Ukulele Types
Ultra-compact and delightfully bright
Among all the known ukulele types, the pocket ukulele — also referred to as a piccolo or sopranissimo — stands out as the absolute smallest. Measuring just 16 to 17 inches long, it’s truly pocket-sized, making it the most travel-friendly member of the ukulele family.
Although it’s miniature in scale, the pocket uke is more than just a novelty. It’s fully playable and often surprisingly well-built, especially by reputable brands. Some versions are tuned in standard G–C–E–A, while others use a higher tuning, such as A–D–F♯–B, which adds even more sparkle to its already bright tone.
- Length: ~16–17 inches
- Scale length: ~11 inches
- Tuning: G–C–E–A (standard), or an octave higher
- Tone: Sharp, crisp, and playful
- Playability: Extremely tight fret spacing — great for small hands
- Best for: Collectors, kids, travelers, or anyone wanting a fun musical twist
Because of its compactness, this member of the ukulele types spectrum is ideal as a travel companion or as an eye-catching addition to a collection. While it lacks sustain and low-end depth, it compensates with sheer charm. And thanks to improvements in materials and craftsmanship, many pocket ukuleles offer real musicality, despite their toy-like appearance.
Among the most unique ukulele types, the pocket ukulele is not only the most portable — it’s also one of the most delightful to discover.
Sopranino Ukulele — A Tiny Treasure Among Ukulele Types
Bridging the gap between pocket and soprano
Among the many delightful ukulele types, the sopranino ukulele fills a unique niche. It’s slightly larger than the pocket (or sopranissimo) ukulele, yet still smaller than the standard soprano — making it one of the most compact playable ukes available today.
This tiny but mighty instrument offers a playful sound with more finger room than a pocket uke, making it a practical option for musicians with smaller hands or for those seeking something portable and fun. Whether you’re strumming on the go or adding color to your uke collection, the sopranino offers something charming and distinct.
Thanks to its short scale, its sound is lively and light — brighter than soprano, yet with a bit more body than a sopranissimo. Some players prefer to tune it slightly higher (like A–D–F♯–B) to accentuate that sparkle, though standard G–C–E–A tuning works just fine too.
- Length: ~18–19 inches
- Scale length: ~12–13 inches
- Tuning: Usually G–C–E–A or A–D–F♯–B
- Tone: Bright, chirpy, and cheerful
- Playability: Offers better fret spacing than a pocket uke
- Best for: Travel, melody playing, novelty collections, or players who want something unusual but still musical
Because it balances size and playability, the sopranino is often viewed as the smallest serious instrument in the world of ukulele types — especially for adult players who want portability without compromising too much on comfort or technique.
Among all ukulele types, the sopranino stands out as a perfect blend of fun and functionality — small enough to travel anywhere, yet big enough to play everywhere.
Soprano Ukulele — The Most Iconic of All Ukulele Types
Classic, compact, and unmistakably traditional
At the heart of all ukulele types, the soprano ukulele holds a special place. It’s the original size — the one most people picture when they think of the word “ukulele.” Compact yet expressive, the soprano has a bright, bubbly tone that captures the playful spirit of the instrument’s Hawaiian roots.
Measuring about 21 inches long, the soprano is small enough for easy travel, yet big enough to offer reliable tuning stability and clarity. It’s an excellent choice for beginners thanks to its light body, straightforward feel, and simple tuning system — typically G–C–E–A.
But its charm goes far beyond first-timers. Seasoned players often come back to the soprano when they want a crisp, percussive sound — or when they’re performing vintage songs that need that classic “island” tone.
- Length: ~21 inches
- Scale length: ~13–14 inches
- Tuning: G–C–E–A (re-entrant with high-G or linear with low-G)
- Tone: Bright, traditional, and cheerful
- Playability: Small frets; ideal for kids, smaller hands, or strummers
- Best for: Beginners, traditional styles, or anyone looking for a classic uke experience
Although it has less sustain and projection than its larger cousins, the soprano shines when it comes to charm. Its lightweight body is comfortable to hold, and its instantly recognizable sound has become the voice of the ukulele worldwide.
The soprano is where most journeys begin — and where many return when they want to reconnect with the uke’s timeless sound.
📏 Size Comparison: Pocket/Sopranissimo vs. Sopranino
Ukulele Type | Total Length | Scale Length | Common Tuning | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Pocket / Sopranissimo | ~16–17″ | ~11″ | G–C–E–A (or higher) | Often used interchangeably; smallest uke size |
Sopranino | ~18–19″ | ~12–13″ | G–C–E–A or D–G–B–E | Slightly larger than sopranissimo; still smaller than soprano |
Soprano | ~21″ | ~13–14″ | G–C–E–A | Standard “small” uke size |
🎶 Key Differences
🧸 Pocket / Sopranissimo Ukulele
- Smallest playable ukulele — often called “mini,” “tiny,” or “pocket” uke
- Extremely portable — fits in a backpack or even a large coat pocket
- Tuning is flexible: often G–C–E–A, but can be tuned higher
- Tone: very bright, almost toy-like, but still musical
- Challenge: tight fret spacing makes it tricky for adult hands
These two terms are often used interchangeably by brands — “sopranissimo” is the technical name, while “pocket” is the nickname.
🎵 Sopranino Ukulele
- Slightly larger than sopranissimo — a “bridge” between pocket and soprano
- More playable for adults than sopranissimo, but still compact
- Tuning: often G–C–E–A or D–G–B–E (some tune it higher for brightness)
- Tone: still bright, but with a bit more body than sopranissimo
- Use case: great for travel, kids, or collectors
🎼 Soprano Ukulele (for context)
- The smallest of the four standard sizes
- Easier to play than sopranino or sopranissimo due to more fret space
- Classic uke tone — bright, percussive, and iconic
🧭 Summary
- Sopranissimo and pocket ukulele are essentially the same — the tiniest uke size, often used interchangeably.
- Sopranino is a step up in size and playability, but still smaller than soprano.
- All three are part of the extended family of other ukuleles, offering fun, portable options for players who want something different.
Concert Ukulele — The Balanced All-Rounder in Ukulele Types
A comfortable upgrade that blends tradition with tone
Among all ukulele types, the concert ukulele stands out as a versatile and player-friendly option — bridging the gap between the bright soprano and the bold tenor. Slightly larger than a soprano (typically around 23 inches), the concert uke offers a bit more room on the fretboard, a slightly deeper sound, and greater dynamic range.
That extra size makes a big difference. It opens the door to more expressive strumming and even early-stage fingerpicking, all while keeping the light, joyful feel of the ukulele intact. For many players — especially those with medium-sized hands — the concert is an ideal next step from the soprano.
Despite its enhanced resonance, the concert still retains the classic tuning of G–C–E–A, so there’s no learning curve if you’re switching from a smaller size. Its voice is a touch fuller, a bit richer, but still unmistakably ukulele.
- Length: ~23 inches
- Scale length: ~14–15 inches
- Tuning: G–C–E–A (standard tuning with high-G or low-G options)
- Tone: Warm, balanced, and slightly deeper than soprano
- Playability: More finger space; great for expressive rhythm work
- Best for: Players growing out of soprano size, or those seeking more comfort and volume
Because of this balance between familiarity and sonic expansion, the concert uke has become one of the most popular ukulele types among both casual strummers and serious performers. It adapts well to multiple genres, handles a range of strumming styles, and fits comfortably in most hands.
In the wide world of ukulele types, the concert uke earns its place with balance, tone, and comfort — making it a smart upgrade and a joy to play.
Tenor Ukulele — The Performer’s Favorite Among Ukulele Types
More tone, more space, more musical freedom
As you explore the spectrum of ukulele types, the tenor ukulele emerges as a true standout — offering expanded tone, improved playability, and versatility that appeals to both casual players and professionals alike. With its longer body and scale length, the tenor delivers a sound that’s richer and fuller than the concert or soprano — while maintaining the ukulele’s signature charm.
Measuring approximately 26 inches in total length with a scale around 17 inches, the tenor provides generous finger space and extended range. That makes it a favorite for fingerpicking, melody playing, and more expressive strumming. It also allows for alternate tunings like low-G, which unlocks a wider tonal palette without sacrificing the familiar G–C–E–A chord shapes.
Whether you’re performing solo, playing in a group, or accompanying vocals, the tenor shines with clarity and confidence. Its greater resonance and volume make it ideal for stage use — especially when paired with an onboard pickup.
- Length: ~26 inches
- Scale length: ~17 inches
- Tuning: G–C–E–A (high-G or low-G)
- Tone: Warm, rich, and resonant — with greater sustain
- Playability: Excellent for larger hands, fingerstyle, or expressive techniques
- Best for: Intermediate and advanced players, vocalists, and performers seeking more tonal depth
Because it bridges tradition and sophistication, the tenor has become one of the most popular ukulele types for serious players. Its size remains portable, yet its sonic output fills a room — making it an ideal companion for both rehearsal and performance.
Within the world of ukulele types, the tenor stands tall as the go-to choice for players who want both musical nuance and powerful projection.
Baritone Ukulele — The Boldest Voice in Ukulele Types
Deeper tuning, guitar-like feel, and a world of new sounds
Among all standard ukulele types, the baritone ukulele stands out with its distinct voice, unique tuning, and commanding presence. It’s the largest of the traditional four sizes, usually measuring around 30 inches in length, and it introduces a new tonal dimension that feels more like a small acoustic guitar than a typical uke.
What truly sets the baritone apart from other ukulele types is its tuning. Instead of the familiar G–C–E–A, the baritone is tuned D–G–B–E — just like the top four strings of a guitar. That means it requires different chord shapes, but also opens up a fresh world of musical possibilities, especially for guitarists transitioning to ukulele or for players craving a fuller, darker sound.
- Length: ~30 inches
- Scale length: ~19–21 inches
- Tuning: D–G–B–E (like the highest four guitar strings)
- Tone: Warm, mellow, and resonant — with more bass and sustain
- Playability: Longer reach; perfect for fingerstyle or strumming in lower registers
- Best for: Guitarists, jazz lovers, folk players, and vocalists with deeper ranges
Its longer body allows for greater resonance and sustain, making it ideal for solo playing or rich accompaniment. Some baritone ukuleles are even built with pickup systems, which makes them stage-ready while preserving their earthy tone.
Because of its different tuning, the baritone requires players to relearn familiar chord shapes, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity. However, many uke players find that learning baritone helps them expand their understanding of harmony and rhythm across the instrument family.
Among all ukulele types, the baritone is the bold choice — offering lower tones, unique tunings, and a new way to explore the instrument’s musical depth.
Bass Ukulele — The Low-End Anchor of the Ukulele Types
Small frame, deep power — perfect for rhythm and groove
Bass ukuleles are normaly tuned similarly to the bass guitar and double bass: E1–A1–D2–G2 for U-Bass style instruments (sometimes called contrabass), or an octave higher, E2–A2–D3–G3, for Ohana type metal-string basses (phosphor bronze round-wound strings/Custom stainless steel flat-wound strings).
They can be fretted like the one in the picure over, or not as in the picture below.
Among all modern ukulele types, the bass ukulele is perhaps the most surprising. At first glance, it looks like an oversized baritone or a quirky travel uke. But once you play it — especially plugged into an amp — you’ll feel why it’s earned its place in the ukulele family. Despite its small body, it produces deep, resonant bass notes comparable to a traditional bass guitar.
Introduced around 2009, the bass ukulele was developed to give uke ensembles their missing bottom end. Most models use thick polyurethane strings or metal-wound strings designed for low-frequency vibration. And thanks to built-in electronics, it delivers a sound that’s impressively warm, thumpy, and focused.
- Length: Typically baritone-sized (~30″), but with heavier strings
- Tuning: E–A–D–G (same as bass guitar or double bass)
- Tone: Deep, smooth, and supportive — excellent for rhythm sections
- Build: Often acoustic-electric, with active pickups and volume/tone controls
- Playability: Comfortable scale with frets; sometimes fretless for a mellow slide feel
- Best for: Uke ensembles, acoustic jams, bass players switching over, or anyone craving low-end balance
Because it’s part of the broader ukulele types, the bass uke can be integrated into almost any performance setting — from laid-back acoustic sessions to amplified band gigs. Some models are even short enough to be airline-cabin-friendly, making them an ideal travel companion for bass players on the go.
As one of the boldest and most functional ukulele types, the bass uke brings balance, backbone, and unexpected depth to the music you love.
🐘 Contrabass Ukulele — The Deepest Power Among Ukulele Types
A bass foundation in a surprisingly compact form
Among the most dramatic and low-reaching of all ukulele types, the contrabass ukulele takes the instrument’s sonic possibilities to new depths. It looks like an oversized baritone, but once plugged in, it rumbles with rich, resonant bass — more comparable to an upright or electric bass guitar than any traditional uke.
This instrument was introduced around 2012 to expand the lower limits of the ukulele range. While the bass ukulele had already added rhythmic presence to uke ensembles, the contrabass took things even further, dropping the register and increasing the tonal weight.
Despite its name, the contrabass is still far more compact than a double bass or even a standard electric bass. And thanks to its thick polyurethane or flatwound metal strings and built-in electronics, it offers a professional-grade low-end that can keep pace in almost any musical setting — from acoustic duos to full bands.
- Length: Similar to baritone or slightly longer
- Tuning: E₁–A₁–D₂–G₂ (one octave below the bass uke)
- Tone: Deep, percussive, and powerful — ideal for grooves
- Playability: Often fretless; benefits from amplification
- Best for: Uke ensembles, jazz, acoustic rhythm sections, or players with bass experience
- Bonus: Surprisingly portable for its output — fits into baritone cases or soft gig bags
For players who want to explore the absolute lower limits of ukulele types, the contrabass is the final frontier. It transforms the ukulele into a rhythm-driving force, bridging the gap between uke brightness and bass depth.
Among all ukulele types, the contrabass isn’t just another variation — it’s an anchor. A groove-maker. A bold addition that gives your ukulele collection real foundation.
The Ukulele types and sizes, and Ukulele types and Tunings.
You can also find variations in measurements. (Example: Baritone 30″)
Read about alternative tuning for Baritone at this post.
G4-C4-E4-A4: The numbers indicate in which scale you find the note at the keyboard on a piano. Normally we say GCEA for this C- tuning or C-6 after the cord C6.
All types of ukuleles, including soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone, can accommodate a low G string.
The scale length of a stringed instrument like a ukulele is the distance between the nut and the bridge. This is the part of the string that vibrates when you pluck or strum it, and it plays a crucial role in determining the instrument’s tone and pitch. The longer the scale length, the higher the tension needed to bring the string up to pitch, which can result in a brighter tone and increased volume. Conversely, a shorter scale length requires less tension to reach the same pitch, often resulting in a warmer tone. So, the scale length is a key factor in the overall sound and playability of the instrument.
Read about the Ukulele Strings at the link!
Ukulele types and sound range.
(From Wikipedia)
The sound range varies with the tuning and size of the Ukulele. (#Ad)
Shapes of Ukuleles
Beyond the traditional guitar-like form, ukuleles also adopt other shapes:
- Traditional Ukulele: The most common shape, resembling a mini guitar.
- Pineapple Ukulele: A round body shape that yields a warm, mellow tone.
- Cutaway Ukulele: Features a cutaway in the upper body for easier access to the higher frets.

Example Pineapple Ukulele
Her you have a link to Amazon.
Description of a Cutaway Ukulele:
A Cutaway Ukulele stands out with its unique design feature – a ‘cutaway’ or notch in the lower body under the neck. This design modification allows players to reach the higher frets with ease, making it a favorite among many musicians.
The cutaway design, popular in guitars, especially electric ones, has found its way into the ukulele world. While the soprano ukulele, being the smallest of the four standard sizes, offers easy access to all frets, the larger sizes – concert, tenor, and baritone – benefit significantly from the cutaway design.
However, whether a cutaway is beneficial or not often boils down to personal preference and playing style. If you’re a rhythm player who loves to strum and sing around the campfire, you might not find much use for the cutaway. But if you’re into lead playing or fingerpicking, the cutaway could be quite beneficial.
Scientifically speaking, changing the surface area of an instrument does impact its sound. Generally, a larger surface area results in a louder and fuller sound. However, the difference is often so subtle that it’s barely noticeable to the human ear.
When it comes to cost, a cutaway ukulele is usually on par with traditional body types. The price of a ukulele is more influenced by the quality of its components than by body variations.
Cutaway design an sizes
Finally, you can find cutaway designs in all four common sizes of ukuleles: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. The soprano size has fewer models with cutaways, mainly due to its small body size.
In terms of tuning, a cutaway ukulele is tuned in the same way as any other ukulele. A soprano, concert, and tenor ukulele usually utilize gCEA reentrant tuning, while the baritone uses GCEA linear tuning.

Example Cutaway Ukulele
This is a Kala Solid Spruce Top Striped Ebony – Baritone with Cutaway and EQ. Here you have a link to Amazon
For other sizes and brands, take a look at this link to Amazon.
Ukulele types beside sizes
Beside the traditional Ukulele you have these:
1. Acoustic-Electric Ukulele: These standard ukuleles come equipped with built-in pickups, allowing them to amplify their sound. You can strum them acoustically or plug them in for stage performances.
2. Solid Body Electric Ukulele: Carved from a single wood plank, these ukuleles need to be plugged in. They emit minimal sound when played acoustically.
3. Archtop Ukulele: Taking inspiration from jazz guitars, these ukuleles feature an arched top that delivers a distinct, warm tone.
4. Banjolele (Banjo Ukulele): A fusion of a ukulele and a banjo, this hybrid instrument combines the small scale, tuning, and playing style of a ukulele with the construction and distinctive tone of a banjo. *
5. Guitalele (Guitar Ukulele): A blend of a classical guitar and a tenor or baritone ukulele. It carries the tuning of a guitar capoed at the 5th fret.*
6. Harp Ukulele: This unique instrument marries a ukulele with a small harp, offering additional range and versatility.*
7. Lap Steel Ukulele: Played horizontally with a steel slide, these ukuleles produce a sweet, singing tone.*
8. Travel Ukulele: Compact and lightweight, these ukuleles are perfect companions for traveling musicians.
9. Resonator Ukulele: These ukuleles use a metal cone to amplify the sound, resulting in a loud, bright tone.*
You can read more about some of these (*) in the post Ukulele relatives and variations.
An explanation of Archtop Ukulele:
An Archtop Ukulele, inspired by jazz guitars, boasts a top that curves outward, lending it a unique, warm tone. This design isn’t just for show; the arched structure of an Archtop amplifies its sound, making it louder and more resonant than a flat-top ukulele.
You can find Archtop Ukuleles in concert, tenor, and baritone sizes. They’re perfect for jazz and other complex music styles. What sets them apart is their longer sustain and clear distinction between notes.
Craftsmen carve the top and back of an Archtop Ukulele from two matched pieces of wood. The top, typically made of Spruce, is thicker than that of a traditional ukulele, contributing to its vibrant tone. While an Archtop may not be as loud as a classic ukulele, it still produces enough sound for a solo performance or accompaniment to singing.
A bit more about Travel Ukulele
In today’s world, the ukulele, with its portability, has the ability to journey across the globe. Recognizing the need for a more robust and compact version for the traveling musician, ukulele craftsmen have introduced the travel ukulele. Unlike their standard counterparts, which can be delicate and prone to damage during transit, travel ukuleles are designed with durability in mind.
The standout feature of a travel ukulele is its slim body. Compared to the 3.5-4 inch thickness of a standard ukulele, travel ukuleles typically measure between 1.5 and 2.5 inches. This reduction in size allows for easy storage in backpacks or carry-on luggage.
However, the slim body of the travel ukulele does have its trade-offs. The sound produced is less voluminous and lacks the depth of a standard ukulele. Furthermore, their compact build, which demands precision, often results in a higher price tag. Travel ukuleles can be crafted from various materials including wood, laminate, or plastic, and the category includes thin-bodied and backpacker ukuleles. While some travel ukuleles sport unique shapes, others retain the traditional ukulele form, but slimmer.
(You can find some reasonably priced Travel Ukuleles on this Amazon link.)
Ukulele materials.
Let’s delve deeper into the materials used in ukulele construction and how they influence the instrument’s sound:
1. Laminate Ukuleles
Crafted from thin sheets of wood glued together, laminate ukuleles are a popular choice due to their durability and affordability. The layered wood construction makes them resistant to changes in humidity and temperature, making them a great option for travel or for beginners who are just starting their musical journey. However, while they offer a decent sound, it’s important to note that it may not be as rich or resonant as ukuleles made from solid wood.
2. Solid Top Ukuleles
These ukuleles feature a top made from a single piece of wood, which allows the instrument to vibrate more freely, delivering a richer and more complex tone. They are a step up from laminate ukuleles in terms of sound quality. The back and sides of these ukuleles may still be laminate, balancing cost and sound quality.
3. Solid Wood Ukuleles
As the name suggests, these ukuleles are made entirely from solid wood. The uninterrupted grain of the wood allows for optimal resonance and sustain, providing the best sound quality. However, they come at a higher price and require more care to maintain as they are more sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature.
The new material.
In addition to these traditional materials, there are also Plastic Ukuleles. Initially introduced as a budget-friendly option, plastic ukuleles have seen a resurgence in popularity. They are incredibly durable and immune to changes in humidity, making them perfect for travel or outdoor use. Modern manufacturing techniques have also improved their sound quality, although it’s still not on par with wooden ukuleles. They come in a variety of vibrant colors and are a fun option.
In conclusion, the material of a ukulele plays a significant role in its sound, cost, and maintenance requirements. Whether you choose a laminate, solid top, solid wood, or plastic ukulele, each has its own unique characteristics and advantages.
Normally the Ukuleles are made of wood, but you can also get them made of carbon fiber. Follow the link to Amazon. They can be used in all kinds of weather 🙂
This one is a bit extraordinary! Follow the link to Amazon!
Colors
Ukuleles offer a broad spectrum of colors and decorations, catering to various tastes and preferences. A painted ukulele, for instance, could be a buget-friendly instrument crafted from less expensive materials, or it could be a high-quality ukulele adorned with artistic decorations. Therefore, it’s crucial to inspect a painted ukulele closely to discern its true quality.
But the allure of ukuleles extends beyond their initial appearance. As an owner, you possess the freedom to personalize your ukulele, transforming it into a unique reflection of your style. Embellishing your ukulele not only allows you to express your creativity but also results in an instrument with a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from the rest.
Whether you opt to add stickers, paint designs, or even carve into the wood, the possibilities are limitless. Remember, a ukulele is more than just a musical instrument; it’s a canvas for your creativity. So, don’t hesitate to make your mark and create a ukulele that’s truly one-of-a-kind!
Painted Ukulele can be a Ukulele of cheap materials, or just a decorated good Ukulele. So, you don’t rely know without looking closely.
Or this one from Amazon;
Courses
A ukulele has four courses, meaning that there are four strings or four notes on the instrument, for instance GCEA. However, some ukuleles have more than four strings, such as 6-strings, 8-strings, Taropatch, and Tahitian Ukulele. These instruments still have four courses because two of the strings on a 6-strings ukulele are close together and play as one. For the other mentioned instruments with eight strings, it is two and two strings put close together. For example, the 8-string Ukulele is often tuned like this: gG cC EE AA (High and low G and C).
Buying guide for Ukulele types:
- Size Matters: Ukuleles come in four primary sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. The soprano, being the smallest, produces the classic ukulele sound, while the baritone, the largest, resonates more like a guitar. The concert and tenor sizes strike a balance between the two.
- Wood Type: The type of wood used in the construction of a ukulele significantly influences its sound and cost. Koa, native to Hawaii, is often found in high-quality ukuleles. Other frequently used woods include mahogany, rosewood, and cedar.
- Solid vs. Laminate: Solid wood ukuleles typically produce a superior sound compared to laminate ones, but they also come with a higher price tag. Laminate ukuleles, made from glued thin sheets of wood, offer durability and affordability.
- String Quality: High-quality strings can greatly enhance the sound of a ukulele. Brands like Aquila and D’Addario are renowned for their quality ukulele strings. Read about strings at the link.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands have earned a reputation for their quality and durability. Doing some research on brands before buying can help ensure you get a reliable instrument.
- Price Range: Good quality ukuleles usually start around the $100 mark. Be wary of cheaper ukuleles as they may not be of good quality. Read about cheap ukuleles in this post and how to improve them.
And more:
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, play the ukulele before buying to ensure it feels comfortable in your hands. If you’re buying online, check reviews and ask the shop for recommendations.
- Included Accessories: Check if the ukulele comes with any accessories, such as a gig bag, tuner, extra strings, or instructional materials.
Ukulele Brands.
There are several reputable ukulele brands that are known for their quality and craftsmanship. Here are a few:
Leolani: A small, family-owned brand from Hawaii known for providing quality instruments at affordable prices.
Mahalo: Known for their beginner-friendly ukuleles, Mahalo offers a great balance between quality and affordability.
Martin: A well-established brand in the music industry, Martin is known for their high-quality ukuleles and guitars.
Cordoba: Cordoba is recognized for their traditional craftsmanship and innovative design, offering a wide range of ukuleles for all skill levels.
Fender: Known primarily for their guitars, Fender also produces a range of ukuleles, including the unique Fender Jazzmaster ukulele.
Kala: Kala is one of the most popular ukulele brands and offers a wide variety of ukuleles for beginners to professionals.
Kmise: Kmise is known for their affordable yet quality ukuleles, making them a popular choice for beginners.
Flight: Flight offers a range of ukuleles known for their innovative designs and high-quality sound.
Remember, the best ukulele for you depends on your personal preferences, playing style, and budget!
If you don´t have a music shop with ukuleles where you live, you can find some ukuleles here at AliExpress.
Here you have some more tips before buying:
Conclusion
From the traditional acoustic to the modern electric, the ukulele types and universe is vast and varied. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned player, there’s a ukulele out there that’s just right for you.
Basic Ukulele hopes you have learned something about the different Ukulele types and sizes from this post, and would appreciate it if you could like us on Facebook.
Enjoy your strumming journey!
Please note:
Basic Ukulele is an independent website that does not have any sponsors. The only way we earn some money to keep the website running is by getting clicks on Google ads in our posts. We hope you don’t mind them and use them if you find them helpful. We appreciate every click you make on our ads and express our gratitude for your support. Thank you!
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Finally, Basic Ukulele was founded in 2015 with the aim of making it easier for anyone who wants to learn or find out more about this wonderful instrument.