We’re coming up on 2024, which is when everyone gets excited about the next year because who doesn’t like discussing the future? This means that it’s time to look ahead at what’s in store for ukuleles!
Generally speaking, all good products come with a price tag, even if they are essentials. You can’t expect to get quality goods without paying for them. Thankfully, there are plenty of amazing brands out there that offer great ukuleles without breaking your bank account in the process.
If you’re looking for a way to pass time, try playing an instrument. It’s never too late to start learning how to make beautiful music! With the rising popularity of ukuleles and their affordable price, you might be wishing you’d started sooner.
Effortlessly strumming your ukulele is a simple pleasure for many people. A quick tune can put you in a happy or thoughtful mood. Its gentle sound is calming and relaxing. It’s sometimes used as a meditation tool to clear the mind and promote mental relaxation, as well as an accompaniment to songs like “Oh Susannah.
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Buying Guide
Whatever your budget, Ukes can be a great choice for learning musicians or those looking for an instrument that is easy to play. The following lists highlight the best instruments under $500 from both cheap and expensive ranges, as well as from different brands and individual models.
Richter “R2” Soprano Ukulele
This model is a great choice for those who want a high-quality ukulele without having to spend a lot of money. The model comes with a full-size, Soprano scale (just like the real thing) and it offers excellent tone quality.
Hartke USA “Sunburst” Uke
This is another great option if you’re willing to spend some extra money on a new ukulele. It offers an A-grade instrument design for those who are looking for the best ukulele on the market. Highly recommended for those who are willing to spend more money on a higher quality instrument.
Fender “Ukulele Bass”
The Fender ukulele is an excellent choice for those who love the bass tones of their instruments. It is great for jazz, blues, rock, and country styles of music. It is best suited for those with some experience learning music.
5 Best Ukuleles Under $500 Reviewed
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1. Lanikai Ukulele (QMBLCET)
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The Lanikai brand is one of the most well-known names in uKulele manufacturing. It has been around since 1933 and is now owned by Kawai, Inc. It produces not only the original ukuleles but also acoustic guitars, electric guitars, basses, microphones, amps.
Pros :
- Lightweight
- Gig-A-Day Ukulele
- Good Length and Durability for Beginners
- Great for Traveling and Icky Weather Conditions
Cons :
- They are very easily damaged.
- The neck of the ukulele does not have any adjustment to get the right sound for you.
2. Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Series Baritone Ukulele – Satin Natural
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The Kala KA-SA-B Solid Acacia Series Baritone Ukulele – Satin Natural is a baritone ukulele. This instrument features a natural satin finish to complement the acacia body, which is typically reserved for higher-end models.
Pros :
- Kala makes a variety of solid wood ukuleles with a choice of finishes
- Strong and stable, the Kala ukulele is perfect for those who have been looking to upgrade from their old soprano or concert size
Cons :
- The only downside to this instrument would be that it’s slightly on the expensive side.
3. FAMOUS by KIWAYA FS-5G Soprano Ukulele with gig bag Made in Japan
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This Soprano ukulele, made in Japan by KIWAYA, is a high-quality instrument that any level player can enjoy. It has a strong and sturdy solid spruce top that produces a focused sound with a nice note to it.
Pros :
- Adjustable, padded strap for better comfort
- Small and easy to carry
- Inexpensive but made to last
- Lightweight and well-made
Cons :
- The sound is not good, the strings are too thin
- The preamp does not have a system for EQ or amp simulation
4. LAVA U Carbon Fiber Ukulele with Effects Concert Travel Ukulele with Case Pick and Charging Cable (FreeBoost, Sparkle Black, 23-inch)
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The LAVA U Carbon Fiber Concert Travel Ukulele is a 23″ concert travel ukulele that you can play with your fingers, a pick, or a plectrum. It has a high-quality computer-designed soundboard and comes with a set of free boost pedals that makes it compatible with different sounds.
Pros :
- Great build quality
- Convenient size
- Good sound quality
- Lots of features included with purchase
Cons :
- Some users had difficulty making this ukulele sound as good as they wanted
- Sound is not very full
- Lack of any included strap
5. Kala KA-SA-T Solid Acacia Tenor Ukulele
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The Kala KA-SA-T Solid Acacia Tenor Ukulele is one amazing instrument with both classic style and updated features. It has a spruce top that produces rich sound, a mahogany back with floral inlays, and an all-acacia body.
Pros :
- The Kala KA-SA-T Solid Acacia Tenor Ukulele is built with slotted headstock, 18 brass frets, and geared tuners.
- It ranges in price from $82 – $117.
Cons :
- Since this ukulele is made of wood, it can warp over time if not properly cared for.
Conclusion :
If you’re looking for a great ukulele, but don’t have a large budget to spend this might be the perfect item for you. Not only will it be durable and well constructed, but it has a really appealing design which is not easily replicated at this price point.
FAQ:
Q: How much does a baritone ukulele cost?
A: This baritone ukulele comes in at well under the $500 mark, and it even comes with a padded gig bag. You can take a closer look at this Kala solid spruce top baritone ukulele in Terry’s video (and hear it, too!) but for now, here’s a quick rundown of its features.
Q: Is it possible to buy a ukulele under $500?
A: To celebrate – and to enjoy your playing even more – you’ve decided that it’s time for an search for the best ukulele under $500 budget. The good news is that you have plenty of amazing instruments to choose from. And in a way, that’s bad news too: There are so many great ukuleles on the market now that can be tough to make a decision.
Q: Is this Kala ukulele worth it?
A: Yes, please! This is a stunning tenor ukulele by Kala, with a solid flame maple top, bac, and sides, plus gorgeous purpleheart binding and a striped ebony fingerboard. A satin finish keeps your fingerprints from showing quite so much while showcasing the tonewood beautifully.
Q: How much does a KoAloha ukulele cost?
A: This Koaloha KoAlana ukulele also comes in concert size. You’ve always wanted a baritone ukulele, but you don’t want to pay a lot for it: Don’t give up! This baritone ukulele comes in at well under the $500 mark, and it even comes with a padded gig bag.