How to Choose Your First Ukulele: Size, Wood & Budget

The ukulele is one of the friendliest instruments to learn, but the four common sizes — soprano, concert, tenor and baritone — feel and sound different. Soprano is the classic bright, compact voice; concert gives you a little more room on the fretboard; tenor adds warmth and volume.

For most adults, a concert ukulele in laminated mahogany is the sweet spot between comfort, tone and price. Kids do best on a soprano starter kit that includes a tuner and a bag, so practice is never delayed by a missing accessory.