Best Ukuleles for Beginners in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: May 17th, 2024
Last Updated: August 23rd, 2024

🎶Starting to play the ukulele is a fun and exciting journey into music. Whether you're brand new, a seasoned guitarist, or a parent on the hunt for an instrument for your kid, there's a great ukulele out there for you.

We’ve sorted through lots of options to bring you the best beginner ukuleles for 2024, making it simple to start playing your first chords quickly.

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Overall Best: Kala Learn to Play Ukulele Starter Kit

Official Kala Learn to Play Ukulele Soprano Starter Kit, Satin Mahogany – Includes online lessons, tuner app, and booklet (KALA-LTP-S)

The Kala Learn to Play Ukulele Starter Kit is our top choice for beginners because it comes with everything you need to get started. The set includes a high-quality soprano ukulele known for its rich, warm tone, making it a joy to play. Also included are a tuner and an instructional book to guide you through the basics. What sets this kit apart is its user-friendly design and solid build, ensuring a smooth learning experience. Additionally, the online lessons and handy gig bag are great bonuses, providing a complete package for anyone eager to dive into the world of ukuleles.

Lowest at Amazon
$75.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$75.00 at Adorama

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Still curious about the Kala Learn to Play Ukulele Soprano? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How does the sound quality of the Kala LTP-S compare to more expensive ukuleles?
The [Kala Learn to Play Ukulele Soprano Starter Kit](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07QK1XH5D%3Ftag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) is a pretty solid pick for beginners. But when it comes to sound quality, let's see how it measures up against some pricier options. The ukulele in this kit is made of mahogany, which gives it a nice, warm tone that’s quite impressive for the price. From what we've found, people generally describe it as well-built and a great choice for those just starting out on their ukulele journey. If you compare it to more expensive ukuleles, you’ll notice some differences. Higher-end ukuleles often use better craftsmanship and higher-quality woods, which results in richer, fuller sounds. For instance, you might find that these pricier models have better sustain, clearer tones, and more projection. The kit also comes with a [tuner app](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtuner%2Bapp%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), though according to our research, some folks have found it unreliable, especially for tuning the middle strings. It might be worth getting an [external tuner](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dexternal%2Btuner%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for accuracy, which can be a bit of a hassle. Despite that, the ukulele itself gets a lot of praise. Plus, the included online lessons and detailed booklet are handy for beginners. So, in a nutshell: if you’re just starting out and want a decent, affordable option, the Kala LTP-S ukulele sounds pretty good for its price. But if you're more advanced or open to spending more, higher-end ukuleles will give you better sound and build quality. From what we've seen, while the Kala ukulele is a great starting point, it doesn’t quite match the nuanced sound of more expensive instruments.
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What type of strings does the Kala LTP-S ukulele have?
The Kala LTP-S Ukulele comes with [Aquila Nylgut strings](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Daquila%2Bnylgut%2Bstrings%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). These are known for their great balance between durability and sound quality, which makes them a solid choice whether you're just starting out or have been playing for a while. According to the manufacturer, these strings aim to deliver a warm and well-rounded tone, which really adds to the overall sound of the ukulele. Plus, they tend to hold their tuning well – super handy if you're new to tuning instruments. Our research backs this up. Lots of folks have praised the [Aquila Nylgut strings](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Daquila%2Bnylgut%2Bstrings%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for their resilience and sound quality. One person mentioned, 'The Aquila strings sound amazing and stay in tune better than other brands I’ve tried.' Another said, 'I was new to ukulele and found the strings to be very comfortable and easy to play.' Spot on for both durability and comfort. These strings are also pretty tough against changes in humidity and temperature, which can mess with other types of strings. So, whether you live in a place with crazy weather or plan to travel with your uke, these strings are a reliable choice. All in all, the [Aquila Nylgut strings](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Daquila%2Bnylgut%2Bstrings%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) on the Kala LTP-S Ukulele really boost its playability and sound. It shows that Kala is serious about creating quality instruments that work well for everyone, no matter their skill level.
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Is the Kala Learn to Play app free to use?
Yeah, the Kala Learn to Play app does offer free online lessons, which come with the Official Kala Learn to Play Ukulele Soprano Starter Kit. The manufacturer mentions that these lessons are available through the Kala Brand Music website to help beginners get started with their ukulele journey. So, essentially, you can access those free lessons for sure. But heads up, some extra content or advanced features in the app might need a purchase or subscription after a trial period—something to watch out for if you prefer knowing these things in advance. From what we've found, people have mixed experiences with these free lessons. While a lot of folks think they’re a good starting point, some have said they feel the lessons could use more detailed explanations. Because of this, a few have turned to [YouTube tutorials](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dyoutube%2Btutorials%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or other learning resources to fill in the gaps. Still, the free lessons are generally appreciated as a helpful resource for beginners who are just getting into playing the ukulele. So to wrap it up, the Kala Learn to Play app includes free basic lessons, but be aware that you might need to pay for advanced features or additional lessons after a trial period. Best to check out the app and see if it meets your learning needs before you decide whether or not to go for any of the paid features.
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Runner-up: Donner DUC-1 Concert Ukulele

Donner Concert Ukulele Beginner Mahogany 23 Inch Ukelele Kit with Free Online Lesson Gig Bag Strap Nylon String Tuner Picks Cloth DUC-1 Gift Choice 23 Inch Mahogany

The Donner DUC-1 Concert Ukulele is a fantastic runner-up, offering a great balance of affordability and quality. This concert-size ukulele produces a robust sound and comes with impressive build quality and playability. The package includes a case, strap, and tuner, so you’re well-equipped to start playing right away. Its rich tone and beginner-friendly design make it a strong contender for those wanting more value for their money.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$72.99 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Donner Concert Ukulele 23 Inch Mahogany? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What are common complaints about the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1?
If you're looking into the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1, there are a few common gripes you might want to be aware of based on our research and feedback from folks who've used it. Here's a quick rundown of the main issues people have mentioned:  ### Nut Width  One thing that comes up a lot is the nut width, which is 1 3/8 inches. This is pretty standard for beginner ukes, but if you're someone with larger hands, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more space, like a 1-1/2 inch nut. It could be a bit cramped otherwise.  ### Fret Edges  Some people have found that the fret edges aren't super smooth right out of the box. This can make playing a bit uncomfortable, especially if you're just starting out. You might need to spend a little time adjusting or smoothing these out.  ### Tuning Stability  Another thing to note is the initial tuning stability. It seems like the uke doesn't stay in tune perfectly when you first get it, which isn't unusual for new string instruments since the strings need some time to settle. But once they're adjusted, the tuning tends to hold pretty well.  ### Overall Build and Accessories  On the upside, the ukulele does come with some handy extras like a [tuner](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dtuner%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [strap](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dstrap%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), and extra strings. Most people think the overall build quality is decent for a beginner instrument. But if the nut width or fret edges are major concerns for you, you might want to think about whether you're up for making a few adjustments or returns.  ### Final Thoughts  All in all, while the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1 is generally appreciated for its sound quality and good value, keep an eye out for the nut width, fret comfort, and initial tuning as potential pain points. They might be minor tweaks for some but could be bigger issues for others, depending on what you're looking for. If you decide to go with this uke, just keep these things in mind and be ready for a bit of tweaking to get it just right for you.
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Is the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1 good for beginners?
Yeah, the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1 is actually really good for beginners. According to the manufacturer's description, it comes with a padded gig bag that's designed like a backpack, with straps and an exterior pocket. That's pretty handy for carrying it around to lessons or jam sessions, and it helps protect the ukulele on the go. Our research shows that people are quite impressed with the quality of this gig bag, mentioning that it's well-padded and durable compared to others in the same price range. That adds a lot of value because it keeps your ukulele safe. But it's not just about the gig bag. The ukulele itself has received praise for its build and sound quality. The manufacturer says it has a mahogany body, which gives it a rich, warm tone that both beginners and experienced players appreciate. The neck and fingerboard are made from African mahogany, adding durability and contributing to its good sound. In terms of playability, folks have found that it has a good action (meaning the strings aren't too high or too low), and it stays in tune nicely. This is crucial for beginners since a ukulele that stays in tune makes learning a lot less frustrating. Plus, it comes in a beginner's kit, which includes [extra strings](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dextra%2Bstrings%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) and a [digital clip-on tuner](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Ddigital%2Bclip-on%2Btuner%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) according to the manufacturer's description. These accessories help you get started and maintain your instrument more easily. So, all in all, the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1 is highly recommended for beginners. It offers a well-built instrument, a great gig bag, and useful accessories, making it a solid all-in-one package at a reasonable price.
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What accessories are included with the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1?
When you get the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1, you're not just getting the ukulele itself. According to the manufacturer, it comes with a bunch of accessories to help you get started. Inside the box, you'll find a gig bag for easy carrying, a digital clip-on tuner to keep you in tune, an extra set of nylon strings, a strap, and some picks. These can be super handy, especially if you're new to playing and don't already have this stuff lying around. Speaking of which, nylon strings can take a bit to fully stretch and settle, so retuning often at first is pretty normal. Our research shows that a lot of folks mentioned that the uke tends to go out of tune initially, but it gets better as you keep playing and tuning it. Thankfully, it has chrome-plated guitar-style tuners, which help with keeping everything accurate and stable. Some people have also found that swapping out the original strings for better ones, like [Aquila Super Nylgut](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Daquila%2Bsuper%2Bnylgut%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [D'Addario](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dd'addario%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), can improve tuning stability and playability. While the clip-on tuner that's included usually does the job, some users have noted it might not last forever. But for getting started, it should work just fine. In short, the Donner Concert Ukulele DUC-1 comes with pretty much everything you need to dive into playing. Just be ready for a little tuning and settling time, and you'll be good to go.
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Budget Pick: Kala KA-15S Soprano Ukulele

Kala KA-15S Mahogany Soprano Ukulele

For those on a tight budget, the Kala KA-15S Soprano Ukulele is a stellar choice. Despite its affordable price, it doesn't compromise on quality. This ukulele features a well-crafted mahogany body and offers a sweet, pleasant tone. It’s perfect for total beginners, kids, or anyone needing a reliable travel companion. The easy-to-play soprano size makes it an inviting option for those new to string instruments.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$65.00 at Amazon

Best for Guitarists: Yamaha Guitalele GL1

Yamaha GL Series GL1 TBS Guitalele, Tobacco Sunburst Guitalele Tobacco Sunburst

The Yamaha Guitalele GL1 is the best pick for guitarists interested in transitioning to the ukulele. This hybrid instrument combines the playability of a ukulele with the familiar feel of a guitar. It retains the compact size of a uke while delivering the tonal depth and volume of a guitar. Crafted with Yamaha's renowned build quality, it features a spruce top, meranti body, and rosewood fingerboard, offering versatility and enjoyment for any experienced guitarist.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$109.99 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How is the sound quality of the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele?
The sound quality of the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele is pretty impressive for its size. It's got a nice blend of the rich tones you get from a classical guitar and the bright, lively sound of a ukulele. This unique mix comes from its special tuning and construction. It's tuned A/D/G/C/E/A, kinda like a guitar with a capo on the fifth fret. So, it has a higher pitch than a standard guitar but still has six strings, making it pretty easy for guitar players who want something more portable. Based on our research, the Yamaha GL1 is often described as having a warm, balanced sound with clear highs and nice resonant lows. That's pretty good considering its small size. The manufacturer lists it as a baritone, but many people see it more as a tenor because of its 17-inch scale length. Folks seem to love the GL1's versatility. You can use it for all kinds of music, from simple strumming to more complex fingerpicking. The nylon strings give it a mellow tone, making it great for classical, folk, and even pop music. Despite its small size, it’s surprisingly loud and works well in small group settings. So, if you're after something unique that combines elements of both a guitar and a ukulele, the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele offers great sound quality and is a lot of fun to play. It's a solid choice whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned player looking for something portable yet powerful.
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What are the dimensions and weight of the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele?
The Yamaha GL1 Guitalele is a cool mix of a guitar and a ukulele. It’s got the size of a baritone ukulele but with six strings like a guitar. According to the manufacturer, it's about 28.5 inches (72.5 cm) long and has a scale length of around 17 inches (43.2 cm). The body depth is about 2.75 inches (7 cm). It only weighs around 2 pounds (0.9 kg), so it's pretty light and easy to carry around. Hope this helps!
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Is the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele good for beginners?
The Yamaha GL1 Guitalele is an interesting mix between a classical guitar and a ukulele. Because it's smaller and has nylon strings, it's pretty good for beginners, especially if you're younger or have smaller hands. It's also a nice pick for more experienced players who want something easy to travel with. One important thing to know is the tuning. The GL1 is tuned to ADGCEA, which is like having a capo on the 5th fret of a regular guitar. So, it's pitched a bit higher. According to the manufacturer's product description, this tuning is what works best for the instrument. If you try to tune it down to the usual EADGBE of a standard guitar, our research shows the strings might get too loose, making it hard to keep in tune and changing the sound and feel. The sound you get from the GL1 is warm and rich, thanks to the nylon strings, which are also easier on your fingers. We've found that many find it simpler to learn on the GL1 compared to a regular guitar because the strings are softer and the neck is shorter and more narrow. This makes switching chords and finger placements easier. Overall, the Yamaha GL1 gives a unique mix of guitar and ukulele vibes. It's a good option for beginners because of its comfortable size, easier playability, and nice sound. Whether you're just starting out or need a portable instrument, the GL1 is a pretty solid choice based on our research and the manufacturer's suggestions.
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Best Acoustic/Electric: Ortega RU5CE

Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO RU Series Soprano Ukulele with Spruce Top, Sapele Body, and Pickup Acoustic-Electric Soprano Right-Handed

For those interested in acoustic-electric options, the Ortega RU5CE stands out. It offers the flexibility to play both unplugged and amplified, thanks to its undersaddle Piezo pickup and MagusUke electronics. This ukulele features a unique design with laser-etched decorations, providing both remarkable sound quality and a beautiful aesthetic. It’s a top choice for beginners eyeing live performances and recordings.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$116.99 at Amazon

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Still curious about the Ortega RU5CE-SO Soprano Ukulele? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO soprano ukulele worth the price?
The Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO Soprano Ukulele seems like a good buy, especially if you're after an easy-to-use instrument with a few extra perks. The manufacturer's description mentions it comes with the [Ortega MagusPro Preamp/Pickup System](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DOrtega%2BMagusPro%2BPreamp%2FPickup%2BSystem%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), including a built-in tuner. This feature helps keep the ukulele in tune, which is super handy for beginners and experienced players alike. It’s particularly useful if you're playing in different places where tuning can change more often. From our research, the built-in tuner is reliable. Someone mentioned, 'Built-in tuner is nice... just have to remember to turn the tuner off when not using it so you don't kill your battery.' Another person said the electronic tuner works as expected, which highlights its overall convenience. Just keep an eye on the battery life, since it uses two lithium metal batteries that come with the instrument. Managing the batteries well will ensure the tuner stays functional. Besides the tuner, the ukulele features a spruce top and sapele body, which the manufacturer says gives it a warm, resonant sound. This construction is great for players who really care about sound quality. All in all, the Ortega RU5CE-SO offers some nice features, especially the built-in tuner, which adds a lot of convenience. Combined with its quality build and sound, it seems like a pretty solid choice for its price range.
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What type of strings come with the Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO soprano ukulele?
The Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO Soprano Ukulele comes with a set of Ortega's own ukulele strings. These strings are designed to give a warm and rich tone that really complements the sound of the uke. The manufacturer picked these strings to match the instrument's construction, so it's ready to play beautifully right out of the box. While the exact type of strings isn't detailed specifically, Ortega usually uses high-quality nylon strings for their ukuleles. These are durable and provide a consistent sound. If you ever want to try something different, many uke players recommend [Aquila Nylgut](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Daquila%2Bnylgut%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Worth strings](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dworth%2Bstrings%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) for their bright tones and long-lasting performance. From our research, it seems many people are happy with the default strings and feel they add positively to the overall playability of the ukulele. But, as with any instrument, what works best can depend on your personal preference and playing style. If you're curious about exploring different sounds, swapping out the strings might be a good idea. Oh, and don't forget, the RU5CE-SO also has a built-in Ortega MagusUke Preamp/Pickup System with an integrated tuner, which is super handy for both practice and performances. This helps ensure a clear, amplified sound whether you're playing acoustically or plugged in.
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How is the build quality of the Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO soprano ukulele?
The build quality of the Ortega Guitars RU5CE-SO Soprano Ukulele is pretty solid overall, with a few things to keep in mind. According to the manufacturer, it has a spruce top, but our research shows that this top is laminated, not solid. This can affect the sound a bit since solid tops usually have better sound projection than laminated ones. Still, the craftsmanship is quite good for its price range. It’s well-built with chrome-plated diecast tuning machines that help keep it in tune and decent electronics if you’re planning to plug it in. Regarding sound, there are mixed opinions. A lot of folks appreciate its sound, especially when amplified, saying it has good resonance and tone. However, some purists might be a bit let down by the laminated top because it might not offer the same acoustic performance as a solid top. So, if having a solid spruce top is really important to you, you might want to explore other options. But if you're okay with a laminated top and need a reliable ukulele with good build quality and electronic features, the Ortega RU5CE-SO is worth considering.
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