More artists today are gravitating toward the dulcet tones and ultra-portability of the humble ukulele than ever before. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know which one is right for you — especially if it’s your first time around the block. Wherever you are in your musical journey, let Sweetwater’s ukulele buying companion guide you through your next ukulele purchase.
Considerations
When it comes time to make your ukulele purchase, there are four main points to consider:
- Quality and budget — Pro or self-starter? Be mindful of where you are in your ukulele education, and buy accordingly.
- Right size and sound — Body and scale length affect tone and playability. If possible, consider several sizes before making your decision.
- Acoustic or acoustic-electric — Recording or performing? An onboard ukulele pickup can make your life easier.
- Sound and climate — Ukuleles are built of materials ranging from exotic tonewoods to plastic. Each has its inherent strengths and weaknesses.
1. The right ukulele will match your quality and budget expectations.
When it comes to music instruments, it may be well said that you get what you pay for. This is especially true for ukuleles. If you’re an established ukulelist, be prepared to spend money on a quality instrument that will speak to your soul. On the other hand, if you’re just getting started or looking for a dedicated practice or learner’s instrument, find an entry-level or intermediate uke that is well reviewed and jump right in. Every ukulele that Sweetwater carries, from beginner to pro, has been vetted by our qualified team, so whatever ukulele you purchase from Sweetwater, you can be sure it’s a keeper.
2. The right ukulele will be the perfect size and sound.
There are four main sizes of ukuleles: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone (smallest to largest). Each of these sizes has a significant impact on not just playability, but the sound as well.
For instance, a smaller soprano uke will often have a tighter fingerboard than a larger instrument, which means stretches will feel easier, but fretting may feel cramped for larger hands. And a soprano’s smaller body may or may not benefit your particular cradle and strum. When it comes to playability, you just can’t beat getting your hands on the instrument. Sweetwater recommends coming to our store, or any other, and finding a size that speaks to you.
Additionally, a larger body will typically exhibit a rounder, warmer tone and greater projection (louder) than a smaller one. Consider this when determining your next ukulele purchase. If you’re a solo performer, a loud, full-sounding ukulele will probably be preferable. But if you’re part of an ensemble, consider that a bigger instrument means a bigger sound, which may have you occupying sonic real estate that other performers occupy.
Standard ukulele sizes (small to large):
- Soprano: 12–15 frets
- Concert: 15–20 frets
- Tenor: 15–25 frets
- Baritone: 18+ frets; tuned DGBE instead of standard GCEA
Bigger fretboard = more space between frets, easier to play, feels less cramped to large hands
Bigger body = bigger tone, deeper sound, greater output
3. The right ukulele will be equipped for your stage and recording needs.
Is your ultimate goal to play live concerts with your new ukulele? Or do you plan on recording in the studio with it? Then you may want to consider getting an acoustic-electric uke with an onboard pickup system. Rather than having to mic yourself to be heard, an acoustic-electric ukulele is equipped with a pickup and a direct 1/4” instrument output, which you can send out to a speaker system for live sound reproduction or straight to a recorder or interface for convenience.
On the other hand, if you’re just learning, or if concerts are not on your horizon at the moment — maybe you just want to accompany yourself at home or film and share live video covers — then save yourself some money and get a fully acoustic model.
4. The right ukulele will match not only your sound but your climate.
As with acoustic guitars, it’s typically true that ukuleles at higher price points will be made from solid woods. The benefit to a uke that has a solid wood top and body is that it tends to look finer and resonate more freely for a richer sound and greater output. However, one consideration with solid woods is that they’re sensitive to temperature and humidity and may warp if not properly cared for. At lower price points, you tend to find laminates (layers of pressed plywood) and plastics. These tend to be more resistant to changes in climate, though their durability may mean compromising on looks and/or tone.
Whatever you’re looking for in a ukulele, Sweetwater carries models and options to suit every player. Reach out to your Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700 to learn more about how you can put our ukuleles to work for your musical endeavors.