Cheapest Ukulele Buying Guide and Reviews
Note: We have researched 13 ukuleles for you.
Last updated on 29.06.24 um 01:03
Strumming a few chords on the ukulele can brighten anyone's day, but you don't need to break the bank to join in on the fun. Finding an instrument that combines quality with affordability is key for beginners and seasoned players alike who are watching their wallets.
In this guide, we'll showcase a selection of instruments that prove you don't have to sacrifice sound for savings. Whether you're looking for your first uke or adding to your collection, these budget-friendly options will keep the music flowing without draining your resources.
In this guide, we'll showcase a selection of instruments that prove you don't have to sacrifice sound for savings. Whether you're looking for your first uke or adding to your collection, these budget-friendly options will keep the music flowing without draining your resources.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: Xsltkby Soprano Ukulele for Beginners
What to Look for in Cheapest Ukuleles
Important criteria
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Affordability
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Decent sound quality
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Sturdy construction
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Proper intonation
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Comfortable size and shape for the player
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Tunable with reliable tuning pegs
1.) Build Quality and Materials
When buying the cheapest ukulele, one of the key aspects to consider is the build quality. The craftsmanship should be sound, ensuring that the instrument is durable and has a good finish. Pay special attention to the materials used; cheaper ukuleles might be made of laminate woods or plastic, which can affect sound quality. However, some laminate woods provide a decent sound at a budget price. Check for any obvious defects such as cracks, loose fittings, or poor finishing, as these can affect both the playability and the life span of the instrument.
2.) Tuning and Sound Quality
A low-priced ukulele should still stay in tune reasonably well and have a pleasant sound. Test the tuning pegs to ensure they turn smoothly and hold the tuning. The quality of the strings can also make a significant difference in sound; oftentimes, upgrading the strings can improve the overall tone. Listen for any buzzing or dead notes, as these suggest issues with the setup or construction. Even with a cheaper ukulele, strum it to ensure that the sound is balanced across the strings and fretboard.
Pictured: Milisten Wood Color Ukulele Small Guitar
3.) Size and Playability
Ukuleles come in various sizes, including soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. The cheapest ones are usually soprano or concert sizes. Ensure that the size you choose is comfortable for your hands and fingers. The action, or the height of the strings above the fretboard, should be low enough to press down comfortably without causing buzzing, but not so high that it requires excessive pressure. This impacts playability significantly, so try playing the instrument to get a feel for its action and neck profile.
The Cheapest Ukuleles of our Choice
Our Pick
Xsltkby Soprano Ukulele for Beginners
Model: FKAUBSA
Type/Color: Pink
Size: 21inch
Properties
- 21" Soprano Ukulele: Standard size for beginners.
- Quality Strings: Premium nylon for clear sound.
- Easy to Learn: Softer nylon strings, 4 strings only.
- What You Get: Ukulele, Gig Bag, Digital Tuner, Picks, Strings.
- Great Gift: Crafted for warm Hawaiian harmonies.
2
Independently Published Easy Ukulele: A Complete
Properties
- Water-resistant design for outdoor activities.
- Good battery life for long usability.
- High-quality camera for clear photos.
- Fast processor for smooth performance.
- Large storage capacity for saving memories.
- Secure facial recognition for unlocking device.
- Responsive touchscreen for easy navigation.
3
NOT HOME Soprano Ukulele for Beginners
Type/Color: White
Size: 21inch
Properties
- Soprano ukulele - measures 21 inches.
- Style is small and cute.
- Create warm Hawaiian harmonies.
- Quality materials and technology used.
- Made with high-quality wood.
- Environmentally friendly paint.
- Easy to play with glossy finish.
- Smooth finger line, no harm.
- Great gift for beginners and all ages.
- Suitable for kids, students, and adults.
- Lifetime VIP - 30-day money-back guarantee.
$ 29.99 *
View
on Amazon
4
AODSK Ukulele For Beginners
Model: AUS-P06
Type/Color: Blue
Size: Soprano
Properties
- Complete Ukulele Starter Kit with 21inch ukulele
- Brighter and richer sound with Sapele wood
- Great for all ages, perfect for beginners
- Easy to tune with tuning knob
- After-sales guarantee with unconditional refund option
5
JOYMUSIC 23"
Model: UK-23S
Type/Color: Clear,Chrome
Properties
- Four-stringed plucked instrument for easy learning.
- Mahogany body and Okoume neck for richer sound.
- Artificial fingerboard and bridge for comfortable playing.
- Aquila Brand Nylon strings for clear sound.
- Metal chrome tuners for stable tuning.
- Carved sound hole with ABS nut and saddle.
- Matte finish with included Gig Bag and Picks.
6
Expressions My First Ukulele
Type/Color: Brown
Properties
- Sized for little hands, comfortable to play
- Simple design, easy for beginners to learn
- Encourage musical talents and imagination in children
- Playing helps develop skills like coordination and rhythm
- Great gift for kids interested in music
7
Strong Wind Soprano Ukulele for Beginners Solid
Type/Color: Wings2
Size: Soprano 21in
Properties
- Good gift option for Christmas or birthdays.
- Easy to play for beginners and sounds great.
- Well-finished fretboard and bridge for rich sound.
- Four sturdy nylon strings for full-bodied sound.
- Made of high-quality mahogany wood material.
- Includes ukulele and gig bag, customer support.
$ 35.99 *
View
on Amazon
8
CLOUDMUSIC Tenor Concert Soprano Baritone Ukulele
Model: CM-S138
Type/Color: Colorful Diamond
Size: Large
$ 19.99 *
View
on Amazon
9
Hola! Music Ukuleles for Adults
Model: HM-21MG
Type/Color: Mahogany
Size: Soprano 21 Inch
Properties
- Comes with premium Aquila Nylgut strings.
- Maple body, walnut bridge, fingerboard for elegance.
- Suitable for kids, adults, beginners, and students.
- Included accessories: tote case, picks, trendy strap.
- Includes 2 months of free online lessons.
10
LXS Soprano Ukulele Kids Ukulele for Beginners
Type/Color: Wood Color
Size: 21 inch
Properties
- 21 inch beginner ukulele made of basswood.
- Lightweight, stable, no smell, safe for fingers.
- Quality nylon strings for clear sound.
- Easy to learn with gentle nylon strings.
- Only four strings make learning easier.
- Perfect for kids, beginners, and students.
- Great gift for music lovers, children, beginners.
- Comes with ukulele, gig bag, picks, strings.
$ 29.99 *
View
on Amazon
11
Trendy Soprano Ukulele for Beginners 21 Inch
Type/Color: Orange
Size: Small
Properties
- Soprano Instrument Ukulele: 21 inches long
- All nylon strings, flexible with long echo time
- Metal knobs for easy tuning
- High quality basswood body for crisp sound
- Environmentally friendly coatings, 12 frets hardwood fingerboard
- Lightweight, 7 color options (orange, pink, light blue, brown, green, purple, black)
- Two styles: with or without bag
- Gift for friends: warm harmonies creation
- What You Get: 1 ukulele
$ 39.99 *
View
on Amazon
12
Milisten Wood Color Ukulele Small Guitar
Type/Color: Assorted Color
Size: 38x12.5cm
Properties
- Unique design grabs attention and affection.
- Easy application method for beautiful melodies.
- Made with safer plastic and imitation wood materials.
- Professional ukulele for playing wonderful tunes.
- Reasonable structure design for comfortable playing.
$ 12.76 *
View
on Amazon
13
adm Soprano Ukulele for Beginners 21 Inch
Type/Color: Brown
Size: 21 Inch
Properties
- Superior-quality craftsmanship with solid basswood for bright tone.
- Comprehensive all-in-one set with free lessons and accessories.
- Easy to tune with correctly positioned frets and adjustable string height.
- Great gift for beginners, suitable for all ages and occasions.
- Suitable for music lovers of all ages and skill levels.
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Your Guide to Finding Affordable Ukuleles
Budget-Conscious Beginners
Starting your musical journey doesn't have to break the bank. We've curated a selection of ukuleles that are perfect for beginners who want quality without the high cost. These options offer a balance between price and playability.
Casual Strummers
For those who enjoy playing the ukulele as a hobby, we have a list of affordable instruments. These ukuleles are ideal for casual play sessions and offer great value for their price.
Gift Givers
Looking for a thoughtful gift that doesn't empty your wallet? We've found a range of inexpensive ukuleles that make great gifts for music lovers of any age. Surprise someone with the gift of music.
Travel Enthusiasts
Take the music with you wherever you go with a ukulele that's compact and affordable. These selections are durable and easy to carry, perfect for the traveler who wants to strum under the stars.
Questions You Might Ask
Ukuleles typically come in four main sizes: Soprano (smallest), Concert, Tenor, and Baritone (largest). Soprano is known for its classic ukulele sound, while the larger sizes offer deeper tones and may be more comfortable for players with larger hands.
A decent quality beginner ukulele can be found in the range of $50 to $100. It's important to avoid very cheap models, as they may have poor sound quality and construction, making them less enjoyable to play.
Ukuleles are commonly made from woods like mahogany, koa, spruce, and maple. Some beginner ukuleles are also made from plastic or laminate woods. Koa wood is traditional for Hawaiian ukuleles and is known for its rich sound.
Look for a ukulele with even string height, smooth frets, and a straight neck. Quality tuning pegs that hold their tuning and a well-finished body without glue spots or rough edges are also signs of good construction.
While not strictly needed, certain accessories like a tuner, a case or gig bag, and spare strings can be very helpful. A tuner is essential for keeping your ukulele sounding good, while a case protects it during transport, and spare strings are useful for replacements.
Currently Active Poll
How to Choose the Cheapest Ukulele: A Buyer's Guide
Our Pick: Xsltkby Soprano Ukulele for Beginners
Embarking on your musical journey doesn't have to break the bank, especially with the enchanting sounds of the ukulele. If you're seeking the thrills of strumming without the financial frills, this guide is your backstage pass to finding the cheapest ukulele that still hits all the right notes. From understanding key features to where to look for your budget-friendly uke, we'll make sure your purchase is in perfect harmony with your wallet and your aspirations.
Understanding Ukulele Types
Before diving into the sea of affordable options, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the different types of ukuleles available. From the petite soprano, beloved for its traditional Hawaiian sound, to the larger tenor, there's a range of sizes to explore. Each size offers a unique tone and playability, with the soprano being the most budget-friendly due to its popularity and smaller size.
Additionally, the concert ukulele strikes a balance between the soprano and tenor, providing a fuller sound while still being relatively light on the wallet. The baritone, with its deeper tones, tends to be higher in price but don't let that dissuade you; deals can still be found. It's key to know which size aligns with your comfort and style before price hunting.
Keep in mind that while size matters, so does construction. Ukuleles made from laminated wood are generally less expensive than solid wood instruments. However, a solid top uke can sometimes be found at a modest price and will offer a richer sound. Balance your desire for sound quality with your budget constraints.
Where to Shop for Deals
For the budget-conscious musician, knowing where to look for ukulele deals can be as important as choosing the right instrument. Online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay often feature ukuleles at various price points, with user reviews to guide your decision. Just be wary of the quality at extremely low prices, as they may not always provide the best value in the long run.
Consider checking out your local music shops' clearance sections or asking about B-stock models that may have minor cosmetic imperfections but still play beautifully. These can offer significant savings. Don't overlook garage sales, thrift stores, or online classifieds like Craigslist where second-hand ukuleles can be hidden gems.
Many online music retailers also have seasonal sales or stock clearance events. Signing up for newsletters and alerts can give you an edge in nabbing a decent ukulele at a fraction of the cost. Keep patience on your side, and don't rush into a purchase without comparing prices across different platforms.
Key Features to Look For
Even when aiming for the lowest price point, there are certain features you shouldn't compromise on. Aim for a ukulele with geared tuners, which offer better tuning stability than friction pegs. This can make a world of difference in your playing experience, as a well-tuned uke will sound significantly better and be more enjoyable to play.
The strings are the soul of the ukulele, so even if you go for a cheaper model, consider investing a few extra bucks in a set of quality strings. This small upgrade can elevate the sound of even the most budget-friendly uke. Also, look for a ukulele with a comfortable neck and smooth fretboard, which will be gentle on your fingers as you learn and practice.
Lastly, examine the build quality. The ukulele should be well-constructed without any visible glue around the edges, and the finish should be even. A solid playing ukulele might have less decorative details, but as a beginner, your focus should be on the instrument's playability and sound rather than aesthetics.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
In your quest for the cheapest ukulele, beware of false economies. It's tempting to grab the lowest priced instrument, but it could cost more in the long run if it leads to frustration or the need for replacement. Be cautious of brands that you've never heard of and always research before purchasing. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from seasoned ukulele players can provide invaluable insights.
Another common pitfall is overestimating your abilities and opting for a cheap but complicated instrument, such as one with electronics or cutaways. As a beginner, simplicity is your friend. Focus on finding a ukulele that does the basics well, ensuring a smooth learning curve as you embark on your musical journey.
Finally, remember that a low price tag doesn't have to mean low quality. With careful consideration and due diligence, you can find an affordable ukulele that sounds great and brings joy to your learning. Invest time in your search, and you'll be rewarded with a ukulele that's not only friendly on your wallet but also a pleasure to play.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
The following section provides a carefully curated selection of resources pertaining to the most affordable ukuleles available on the market. We've divided these into four distinct categories for your convenience: expert reviews, forum discussions, relevant Reddit threads, and informative videos. Each of these has been chosen for their credibility and value in helping you make an informed decision.
Mar 8, 2012 — Ukuleles aren't instruments that are very expensive, or hard to come by, unlike pianos or synthesizers. However, that hasn't stopped app ...
Nov 22, 2020 — Learn guitar, ukulele, bass, piano or vocals with access to a huge library of lessons. Bonus: Three months of free lessons from Fender.
Feb 28, 2020 — But don't take our word for it. We've rounded up the coolest things you can get at Walmart for under $50, so you can find a great new toy for ...
IMO, an Oktava MC012 in good working order is about as good a mic as you'll get in that price range. The new Peluso CEMC6's offers the sonic performance of...
forum.ukuleleunderground.com
$ 50 CAD ==> ~$38.50 USD. At $50 CAD, I doubt that you can easily locate a decent, playable ukulele. If you can go to ~$66 CAD (~$50 USD) ...
I think the Enya Nova ukuleles all sound great, and the tenor is the best -made, in my opinion. The metal frets are a real improvement.
Buying the Best (and worst) cheap Ukuleles on Amazon
... ukulele is worth it! Buying the cheapest ukuleles from amazon and... Buying the Best (and worst) cheap Ukuleles on Amazon | Ukulele Review .
