Here are our picks of the best ukulele brands that continually deliver great quality ukes catering to all players and budgets.
Written by Jay Searle/ Published December 8, 2023
Last updated: August 14, 2024
So, you’ve decided to dive into the world of ukuleles—welcome! Whether you’re strumming your first chords or adding to your growing collection, choosing the right ukulele brand can make all the difference.
But with so many options out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re just getting started. Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a curated list of ukulele brands, from the well-known to the hidden gems, each offering something unique no matter what stage you may be at.
By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which brand could be the perfect fit for your style, budget, and musical journey. Let’s get started!
Why Brand Matters in the Ukulele World
When it comes to picking out a ukulele, the brand isn’t just a name on the headstock—it’s a promise of quality, sound, and playability. Think of it like choosing a car: sure, they all have four wheels and get you from A to B, but the experience can be totally different depending on the make and model. The same goes for ukuleles.
There are dozens of ukulele brands on the market, some of which rose to prominence by delivering great sounding instruments at affordable prices—perfect for beginners. Then, there are brands which have been refining their ukuleles over decades, producing high-quality instruments that truly sing.
Understanding what different brands bring to the table helps you make an informed decision, ensuring that your ukulele not only sounds great but also feels just right in your hands. So, whether you’re looking for something traditional, something trendy, or something totally unique, knowing why brand matters can help you find your perfect match.
Top Ukulele Brands for Beginners
If you’re brand new to the world of ukuleles and looking for an entry level instrument to whet your appetite, then we recommend checking out Kala, Cordoba and Lanikai. They all offer decently priced beginner ukes as well as offering instruments suited to intermediate players.
Kala: The Go-To Brand for Beginners
Kala has been operating since 2005 and is generally considered the “ultimate” modern ukulele brand for a simple reason – it caters to both immediate beginners and more seasoned players with an eclectic catalog of low and high-end instruments.
Its KA-S and KA-15S model soprano ukuleles have been incredibly popular with beginners and intermediate players alike, offering great tone and build quality at an affordable price. Kala also offers a variety of boutique-level ukuleles at slightly higher price points to cater for more experienced players.
Why Choose Kala?
- Versatility: Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, Kala has a model that fits your needs.
- Quality Craftsmanship: Even their entry-level ukuleles are built with attention to detail, ensuring a good sound and feel.
- Variety of Options: From soprano to baritone, Kala covers all ukulele sizes, plus they offer unique designs like the travel ukulele and resonator models.
Best for: Beginners who want a dependable first ukulele, as well as more experienced players looking for solid mid-range instruments. We recommend checking out its Metropolitan or Elite series, especially all solid ukes like KA-TRBG-S or KA-MNGG-C if you’re looking for a high-quality ukulele.
Cordoba: Classical Influence with Contemporary Appeal
Cordoba is a remarkably popular uke brand founded in 1997 specializing in a variety of acoustic instruments. It started with classical and acoustic guitars before introducing ukuleles to its catalog.
Similar to Kala, Cordoba offers a range of ukulele sizes and shapes; from the tiny sopranos and full-sized tenors to towering baritones.
What separates Cordoba from contemporary alternatives is its tendency to use good-quality tonewoods without ramping up its prices. You’ll find a variety of all-Spruce, Koa, and Mahogany ukes in its catalog, all well crafted nicely finished.
Why Choose Cordoba?
- Rich Sound: Drawing from their guitar-making heritage, Cordoba ukuleles have a warm, full sound that’s hard to beat.
- Beautiful Finishes: These ukuleles are as much a joy to look at as they are to play, with high-quality wood and craftsmanship.
- Guitar Influence: For players transitioning from guitar to ukulele, Cordoba offers familiarity with their design and feel.
Best for: Players who want a ukulele with a rich, guitar-like tone and elegant design. If you’re after a beginner level ukulele from the brand, check out our review of Cordoba’s classic 15CM concert uke.
Lanikai: Balancing Affordability and Quality
The “prime mover” of modern ukuleles, Lanikai rolled out a series of uke innovations in two short decades of its operation. Founded in 2003, this company built a comprehensive catalog spanning sopranos, concerts, tenors, baritones, and bass ukuleles, as well as more modern 5-string, 6-string, 8-string, and guitalele instruments.
Besides all these forward-thinking designs, what made Lanikai famous was its assortment of instruments made of a broad spectrum of different tonewoods. From Acacia and Cedar to Bocote, Flamed Maple and Mahogany to Oak, Lanikai offers a diverse range of different ukes.
This versatility also extends to its uke types. Lanikai’s catalog features all-solid, hybrid, and laminated ukuleles, catering to virtually all budgets. Its LU Series offers a great set of ukuleles for beginners to sink their fingers into.
Why Choose Lanikai?
- Hawaiian Heritage: Lanikai stays true to the roots of the ukulele with traditional designs and sounds.
- User-Friendly Features: Many models include features like wider necks and tuner upgrades, making them comfortable to play and easy to keep in tune.
- Durability: Built to last, Lanikai ukuleles are a great investment for players who want a long-term companion.
Best for: Those who appreciate the traditional ukulele sound and want an instrument that blends classic and contemporary features.
Mid-Range Brands for Intermediate Players
Whilst the above brands all have ukuleles within their catalogs that would satisfy intermediate players, we recommend also checking out instruments from the following brands.
Ohana: Quality Craftsmanship at Affordable Prices
Ohana is a brand that punches above its weight, offering high-quality ukuleles at prices that won’t scare off beginners. Laser-focused on ukulele sound and tone, Ohana is famous for delivering instruments that can easily outperform similarly priced alternatives.
More importantly, Ohana is among the scant few modern ukulele brands that create sub-soprano ukes. We’re talking about sopraninos and sopranissimo ukuleles – almost pocket-sized instruments that are ideal for people with small hands, kids, and teens.
We’d have to single out Ohana’s O’Nina Willow sopranissimo ukulele as one of the finest low-scale ukes in the contemporary market. It rocks a laminated willow body and mahogany neck and headstock, backed by Aquilla Nylgut strings and geared machine heads. It represents Ohana’s commitment to excellence by sounding surprisingly well and loud for such a small instrument.
We’ve reviewed the Ohana SK10 sopranino ukulele, a slightly larger yet similar instrument to the O’Nina Willow sopranissimo.
Why Choose Ohana?
- Affordable Quality: Ohana proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good ukulele. Their models offer excellent value.
- Solid Wood Construction: Many Ohana ukuleles are made from solid wood, which enhances the tone and durability.
- Attention to Detail: Even their lower-priced models feature well-crafted details, making them feel more premium than they are.
Best for: Beginners who want to start with a solid wood instrument without a hefty price tag and players who appreciate well-crafted details.
Oscar Schmidt: Affordable and Reliable
Oscar Schmidt is the oldest ukulele brand with countless patents under its belt. It was originally founded as Otto Schmidt Co. in 1871 after Oscar’s brother before being incorporated as Oscar Schmidt in 1911.
Even though the brand’s ukulele-manufacturing process involves a bit of automation (as opposed to all handmade concepts most Hawaiian brands utilize), its instruments are unrivaled when it comes to style and structural stability.
Oscar Schmidt is one of the few brands where you’ll likely find a premium quality lefty uke. Some of its top-selling products feature a left-handed version, most notably the OU2 and OU2 Lefty.
Why Choose Oscar Schmidt?
- Affordability: Oscar Schmidt ukuleles are priced with beginners in mind, making them an excellent starting point.
- Reliability: Despite their low cost, these ukuleles are well-built and offer consistent sound quality.
- Wide Availability: You can find Oscar Schmidt ukuleles at most major music retailers, making them easy to try out before buying.
Best for: Beginners looking for a budget-friendly ukulele that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Martin: A Legacy of Acoustic Excellence
Martin is a name synonymous with high-quality acoustic instruments, and their ukuleles are no exception. Known for their superior craftsmanship and rich tone, Martin ukuleles are a top choice for players who want a high-grade instrument.
Martin excels in building handmade all-solid ukuleles, which are widely renowned for their authentic tone and durability. Its catalog covers virtually all ukulele sizes and shapes, all made from the finest tonewoods available in the current market.
Why Choose Martin?
- Superior Craftsmanship: Martin’s attention to detail ensures that each ukulele is a work of art, with impeccable build quality.
- Rich, Full Sound: Martin ukuleles are known for their deep, resonant tone, making them a favorite among intermediate and professional musicians.
- Heritage: With over a century of experience, Martin brings a wealth of acoustic knowledge to their ukuleles, ensuring a top-tier playing experience.
Best for: Players who want a high-quality ukulele with a rich acoustic tone.
Premium Ukulele Brands for Professionals
If cost is not a factor and you’re after a premium grade instrument, then you really can’t look past the big 4 Hawaiian ‘K’ brands: Kamaka, Kanile’a, Ko’olau and KoAloha.
Kamaka: The Original Hawaiian Ukulele
Kamaka is a family-owned brand operated by Hawaii natives. It’s among one of the oldest uke brands with a track record spanning well over a century.
With unique ukulele-building passed down and improved over the decades, Kamaka has created an exquisite assortment of ukuleles that look, sound, and feel very different from competing alternatives. You can easily recognize a Kamaka uke by the authentic external binding on the top and sides, or by the vibrant tone these instruments are known for.
Another distinct characteristic of Kamaka ukuleles is the grainy finish on virtually all wood pieces, as well as on the tuning pegs of certain models.
Kamaka ukuleles are as close to “classic” as they come. With vintage tonewoods and minimalistic designs, these instruments favor performance over flair and are preferred by gigging and studio musicians. Saying that Kamaka is a good ukulele brand would be a huge understatement.
Why Choose Kamaka?
- Historical Significance: Kamaka is a pioneer in the ukulele world, with a legacy that dates back to 1916.
- Exceptional Quality: Kamaka ukuleles are handcrafted in Hawaii using traditional methods, ensuring a premium product.
- Rich, Warm Sound: Known for their deep, resonant tone, Kamaka ukuleles are a favorite among professional musicians and serious hobbyists.
Best for: Players who want an authentic Hawaiian ukulele with a rich history and unmatched craftsmanship.
Kanile’a: A Touch of Hawaiian Luxury
Kanile’a was founded in 1998, and similar to Kamaka, it specializes in top-grade ukuleles for experienced players and professionals. All of its instruments are made by hand in Hawaii using premium tonewoods. They also have a subsidiary company known as Islander which make some great beginner level ukuleles.
Pros and more advanced players looking for something a bit more unique may want to check out the brand’s Custom Shop. Even though it only features two models, the 25th Anniversary LE Tenor, and the Custom Super Tenor 5-string, these boutique ukes offer exemplary tone and sturdiness, not to mention a barrage of quirky aesthetic elements.
Another reason why Kanile’a is so popular among seasoned ukulele players is its “Design Your Ukulele” offering. People can use its website to order a custom-made ukulele, cherry-picking the model, back, sides, neck, soundboard, headstock, position markers, and virtually everything else.
Why Choose Kanile’a?
- Hawaiian Heritage: Each ukulele is handcrafted in Hawaii, offering an authentic connection to the instrument’s roots.
- Premium Materials: Kanile’a uses only the finest woods, ensuring that each instrument has a rich, resonant sound.
- Sustainability: The brand is committed to reforestation and sustainable practices, making it a great choice for eco-conscious players.
Best for: Players who want a luxury, handcrafted ukulele with a strong connection to Hawaiian culture.
Ko’olau: Custom-Built Luxury
Old-school ukulele players may remember Ko’olau as Kitakis, which was the name this brand operated as throughout the early ‘80s. Its catalog may not be as diverse as that of Kala, Ohana, or Oscar Schmidt, but its designs are unmistakable – rich, high-grain finish graces all Ko’olau ukes, both acoustic and electric ones.
The all-time classic T-100 is arguably the finest representative of the brand’s quality. Featuring a kao body, ebony bridge, fretboard, and faceplate, as well as gorgeous Gotoh tuners, this Tenor ukulele is part of the reason why Ko’olau made it onto our list of recommended ukulele brands.
This uke brand is ideal for players who don’t mind paying top dollar for a top-quality ukulele. What it lacks in instrument diversity it makes up for with pure quality of tone and exquisite aesthetics.
Why Choose Ko’olau?
- Custom Build: Ko’olau offers the opportunity to create a truly unique instrument tailored to your preferences.
- Premium Materials: Only the finest woods and materials are used, ensuring a luxurious feel and sound.
- Master Craftsmanship: Each Ko’olau ukulele is a masterpiece, crafted by skilled luthiers with decades of experience.
Best for: Players looking for a one-of-a-kind, high-end ukulele that’s custom-built to their exact specifications.
KoAloha: Hawaiian Handcrafted Excellence
KoAloha was founded in 1995 and is widely considered among the best ukulele brands when it comes to handcrafted ukes. It’s potentially one of the most prolific uke makers, featuring dozens of unique models neatly categorized in the Koa, Royal Pikake, Mango, Opio, and Koalana series.
What makes this brand unique is the diversity of designs even within the same series. Wider frets, slimmer necks, broader fretboards, and sound holes of varying sizes are just some of the things that separate KoAloha designs from standard ukuleles.
Similar to Kanile’a, this brand also runs a custom shop that customers can use to submit custom-made-to-order ukuleles.
Why Choose KoAloha?
- Handcrafted in Hawaii: Every KoAloha ukulele is made with care in Hawaii, ensuring authenticity and attention to detail.
- Unique, Bright Sound: KoAloha ukuleles are known for their bright, clear tone that stands out in any ensemble.
- Lifetime Warranty: KoAloha stands behind their products, offering a lifetime warranty on all their ukuleles.
Best for: Players who want a handcrafted, authentic Hawaiian ukulele with a bright, distinctive sound.
Lesser Known, Yet Reputable Brands
These brands are certainly well-known to seasoned ukulele players but may fly under the radar of a beginner who is just starting out. You would be doing yourself a favor by checking out these brands when you’re considering your next ukulele purchase.
Pono: The Boutique Choice for Serious Players
Pono is the boutique option for those who want a premium instrument without the premium price tag of some other high-end brands. Made with solid wood and crafted with precision, Pono ukuleles are known for their exceptional sound and build quality.
Why Choose Pono?
- High-End Craftsmanship: Pono ukuleles are meticulously crafted, offering a playing experience that rivals much more expensive instruments.
- Solid Wood Construction: Made entirely from solid wood, these ukuleles have a depth of sound that’s hard to match.
- Boutique Feel: With a focus on quality over quantity, Pono provides an instrument that feels truly special.
Best for: Serious players who are ready to invest in a high-quality instrument that will grow with them.
Flight: Innovation and Affordability from Europe
Flight ukuleles, based in Slovenia, have quickly gained popularity for their innovative designs and affordable prices. Known for experimenting with materials like carbon fiber and using striking finishes, Flight offers something different from the more traditional brands.
Why Choose Flight?
- Innovative Designs: Flight isn’t afraid to push the boundaries, offering ukuleles made from unique materials and with bold designs.
- Affordability: Despite their innovative approach, Flight ukuleles remain accessible, offering great value for money.
- Wide Range of Models: From beginner-friendly plastic models to high-end solid wood ukuleles, Flight covers all bases.
Best for: Players who want a modern, innovative ukulele that stands out from the crowd without breaking the bank.
Enya: The Tech-Savvy Choice for Modern Players
Enya ukuleles blend traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, offering features like built-in effects and carbon fiber bodies. Known for their forward-thinking approach, Enya is a great choice for players who want something a little different.
Why Choose Enya?
- Built-In Effects: Some Enya models come with built-in reverb and chorus effects, making them perfect for solo performances.
- Carbon Fiber Models: Lightweight and durable, Enya’s carbon fiber ukuleles are perfect for travel and outdoor play.
- Tech Integration: Enya embraces technology, offering ukuleles that integrate seamlessly with modern music-making.
Best for: Tech-savvy players and those who want a ukulele that’s ready for any performance situation.
Why Consider a Lesser-Known Brand?
When shopping for a ukulele, it’s easy to gravitate toward well-known brands that dominate the market. However, there’s a world of lesser-known brands that offer unique advantages worth exploring.
Unique Craftsmanship: Lesser-known brands often pride themselves on unique craftsmanship, where each instrument is made with a personal touch. These ukuleles might feature distinctive designs, rare woods, or innovative construction techniques that set them apart from mass-produced models.
Support Independent Craftsmen: By choosing a lesser-known brand, you’re often supporting small businesses and independent craftsmen who pour their passion into each instrument. This not only helps sustain their craft but also gives you the satisfaction of owning a ukulele that’s been made with care and attention to detail.
Stand Out from the Crowd: Playing a ukulele from a lesser-known brand can make you stand out. Whether it’s a striking design, a unique sound, or the story behind the maker, your ukulele can become a conversation piece and a reflection of your individual style.
Potential for Hidden Gems: Lesser-known brands can sometimes offer exceptional quality at a lower price point simply because they don’t have the same marketing overhead as big names. These “hidden gems” can provide excellent value and performance that might surprise you.
Exploring these brands can lead to discovering an instrument that not only meets your needs but also feels like a truly personal find.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Match
When it comes to choosing the right ukulele, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The “best” ukulele brand is subjective and varies depending on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Some players may prioritize heritage and craftsmanship, while others might seek affordability or unique designs.
As you embark on your ukulele journey, remember that the best way to find your perfect match is to explore different brands and try out several instruments. Each ukulele has its own character and sound, and what resonates with one person might not with another.
Take the time to play, listen, and feel the instruments that catch your eye. Whether you opt for a well-known brand with a strong reputation or a lesser-known gem with unique qualities, the right ukulele for you is the one that feels just right in your hands and brings you joy every time you play.
Happy strumming, and may you find the ukulele that inspires you to make beautiful music!
Jay Searle
Website Founder & WriterJay is a self-professed music nerd and ukulele lover. When not working on the website you’ll find him strumming along to his favorite tunes, spending time with his family, or learning to play the piano.