If you’re interested in picking up a musical instrument for the first time, there are few better choices than the ukulele. First, they provide all the benefits of learning an instrument. Also, thanks to their small size and relatively simple chord structure, they’re perhaps the easiest instrument to learn.
To get the most out of your ukulele experience, however, you can’t pick one at random and start playing. There are many different types of ukuleles, varying in model, size, and price. In addition, each type of ukulele produces a different tone.
But don’t worry, to learn how to choose a ukulele that suits you, all you have to do is keep reading.
The Different Types of Ukuleles
The main thing to pay attention to when shopping for the best ukulele for you is its size. There are three common ukulele sizes: soprano, concert, and tenor.
You can also find baritone ukuleles, but as they’re much larger than the traditional instrument and play a bit differently, we’re going to focus on the smaller three.
Soprano Ukuleles
Let’s start with the smallest size, the soprano ukulele. These are considered standard and thus are the most common. They’re also the most inexpensive, making them the perfect choice for beginners.
These ukuleles have the smallest fret sizes and produce the brightest, warmest tone. If you’re planning to play for yourself, this is a great option. However, if you want to play in concert or on YouTube, a concert or tenor ukulele might better suit your needs.
Concert Ukuleles
Concert ukuleles fall right into the sweet spot for most ukulele players. They produce a sound similar to soprano ukuleles but with more volume and depth. This is the preferred instrument of many concert players and other professionals.
If you’re in need of a bit more breathing room for your fingers, concert ukuleles are a better choice than soprano. This is because their larger size means larger frets and a longer neck.
Tenor Ukuleles
The largest ukulele is the tenor, which provides the highest number of notes and most dynamic range. Because tenors are capable of the highest volume and richest tone, they’re a popular choice for stage players.
A tenor ukulele is also necessary to master the full range of ukulele chords, as the most advanced chords cannot be played on the smaller varieties. That said, for obvious reasons, tenor ukuleles are the most expensive model.
Now, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a tenor ukulele for sale at a good price. It simply means that if you’re not sure if the ukulele is right for you, this might not be the best starting model.
Choose the Right Instrument for You With This Guide
As you can see, there are many different types of ukuleles, all of which will their own unique sound. That said, each one sounds as beautiful as the next, and they’re all tuned and played in the exact same way, so you really can’t go wrong.
Choosing the right ukulele for you comes down to the type of playing you intend to do and the tone you want to create.
To learn more about finding the perfect instrument for you, take a look at our blog!
