Small, lightweight, and easy to handle—yet far more than just a vacation instrument: the ukulele has enjoyed a worldwide revival. At the latest with Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole’s iconic version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” the four-string instrument returned to the global stage.
The ukulele is based on the Portuguese cavaquinho, which arrived in Hawaii at the end of the 19th century. There it developed its distinctive sound and later spread across the US mainland and beyond—from jazz and swing to pop and modern singer-songwriter music.
When selecting a ukulele, sound and playability are key. Smaller ukuleles are especially compact and comfortable, while larger body sizes offer more volume and fingerboard space. Kids and beginners often prefer compact models, while adults with larger hands tend to choose concert, tenor, or baritone ukuleles.
The soprano ukulele is the classic and most popular ukulele size. With a scale length of approx. 35 cm, it’s compact, lightweight, and easy to play—ideal as a first instrument and for music lessons.
Its characteristic re-entrant tuning g'-c'-e'-a' (with a high G string) delivers the bright, cheerful ukulele sound that’s perfect for strumming, simple chords, and accompaniment.
If you’re unsure which size to choose, a soprano ukulele is a safe bet: uncomplicated, quick to pick up, and available in a wide range of prices.
The Fame Roundbody soprano ukulele Bocote is a compact soprano ukulele with ABS body and laminated bocote top.
The concert ukulele sits between soprano and tenor ukulele. With a scale length of approx. 38.5 cm, it offers more fingerboard space—a clear advantage for players with larger hands.
Tonally, the concert ukulele provides slightly more volume and warmth while retaining the classic ukulele character. The tuning is usually identical (g'-c'-e'-a'), making the transition effortless.
An excellent all-round ukulele for lessons, home use, and first gigs—compact, yet more “grown-up” in sound than many soprano models.
The J & D CS-3 concert ukulele combines a solid spruce top with a mahogany body.
The tenor ukulele offers a scale length of approx. 43 cm, providing noticeably more room for chords, position changes, and fingerstyle playing.
Its sound is fuller and more bass-rich than soprano or concert ukuleles. The tuning is often the same (g'-c'-e'-a'), making it easy to switch.
Especially in duo or trio setups, the tenor ukulele cuts through the mix and is ideal for solo playing and more advanced arrangements.
The Ortega RU5-TE tenor ukulele features a natural satin finish, laser-engraved top and rich tenor sound.
The baritone ukulele is the largest traditional ukulele size and appeals to players looking for a warm, powerful, guitar-like sound.
Its typical tuning is D–G–B–E, identical to the lower four strings of a guitar in standard tuning. This makes the baritone ukulele especially attractive for guitarists.
Perfect for accompaniment, solo playing, and arrangements with greater depth, sustain, and tonal richness—both acoustic and amplified.
The Fame Mahogany baritone ukulele delivers a warm tone thanks to its solid top and laminated mahogany body.
Many ukuleles are available with a built-in pickup, which is ideal for live shows, bands, and PA systems. For home practice or studio recording, acoustic playing or a microphone is often sufficient—depending on your needs.
Affordable beginner models allow quick musical progress without a large investment. Higher-priced ukuleles offer improved tuning stability, refined craftsmanship, and enhanced tone—right up to premium tonewoods and handcrafted instruments.
Useful accessories include a gig bag or case, tuner, strap, capo, suitable strings, and learning materials. A wide range of accessories helps you complete your setup.
Martin Guitars, Furch, Richwood, Guild, Gibson, Fame, Ortega, Fender, Epiphone, Leho, Sigma, Jack & Danny, Ibanez, Peavey
A soprano or concert ukulele is a great place to start: comfortable to hold, easy to learn, and perfect for first chords and strumming.
Soprano is the smallest with the classic bright uke sound. Concert is a bit larger, usually easier for bigger hands, and slightly fuller in tone.
Tenor gives you more fingerboard space and often a richer sound—great for fingerstyle and solo playing. Concert stays a bit more compact and bright.
High G is the traditional “re-entrant” setup with a bright, classic strum. Low G adds a deeper bass register and feels more guitar-like for melodies and fingerpicking.
Standard tuning is G–C–E–A (often with a high G). Baritone ukuleles are commonly tuned D–G–B–E, like the lower four strings of a guitar.
Choose strings based on your size (soprano/concert/tenor/baritone) and tone preference. Fluorocarbon strings are crisp and clear, while nylon feels softer and warmer. Low G sets are available if you want more bass.
Pick a ukulele with a pickup if you plan to play live, rehearse with a band, or plug into a PA. For home use, acoustic sound or a mic is usually enough.
Many beginners find it easier: fewer strings, simple chord shapes, and a friendly feel. It’s a fun way to start making music fast.
For most kids, a soprano ukulele is a great fit thanks to its compact size and easy reach. A concert ukulele can work well for older kids with larger hands.
Recommended basics: gig bag or case, tuner, strap, spare strings, and a capo (optional). Learning materials can help you progress faster.