The ukulele has fast become one of the most popular instruments to learn. However, ukuleles designed specifically for beginners have historically suffered from a reputation for being rather rough around the edges. Contrary to concerns surrounding entry-level instruments, there are a host of manufacturers out there who promote affordability whilst refusing to compromise on quality. If you’re a new player wondering what the best ukulele options for you are, then Musicroom has got you covered. Below are the top 5 ukuleles for new players that you could buy, uniquely designed to give learners the best possible start at a price they can afford.
Mahalo Kahiko Series
Mahalo are well known for their high quality but affordable ukuleles. Inspired by the age-old Kahiko celebration, here is an instrument that is reminiscent of a traditional Hawaiian ukulele with excellent sound qualities. It provides the perfect basis for learners and was recently crowned as the best choice for beginners by Musicradar.com. Fantastic value for money, the Mahalo Kahiko Series is available in four distinctive and transparent colours: blue, red, butterscotch, and brown. The included carry-bag ensures protection for players on the go.
Bumblebee Hive Series
Bumblebee ukuleles are terrific for the new learner, providing great quality at a fantastic price. The Hive Series ukuleles have a unique, eye-catching headstock and body shape, featuring a flat bottom that enables them to stand freely. Made almost entirely from ABS plastic, the instruments boast both resilience and portability, whilst being easy to clean makes them ideal for children. The Hive Series offers great value for money and is available in seven colours – mahogany, black, white, light blue, dark blue, red, and purple.
Flight Travel Series
The Travel series from Flight is a truly unique range of ukuleles. The body and neck are made from ABS plastic, ensuring both resilience and durability. A lack of binding between the body and neck allows for greater strength and the arched back combined with the plastic body enables great sound projection. It is perfect for beginners, especially those who will be travelling with their instrument. A key element of the Travel ukulele is its versatility, with the ability to function as both a starter instrument and one ideal for the more experienced, travelling musician. The Travel Series is available in a range of colourways and designs, providing the opportunity to align an instrument with your own taste and character.
aNueNue UC Colour Series
aNueNue create stunning instruments of extremely high quality and their Colour series ukuleles are no exception. Featuring a mahogany back and sides with a spruce top, which promotes a bright and organic sound, these ukuleles are excellent for both strumming and fingerstyle playing, and are available in six distinctive colours, enabling users to enjoy a more personalised approach to instrument selection. The instrument does come with a more boutique price, but it’s worth taking the time to consider the extent to which this is offset by a sound and design that promotes enjoyment and longevity. You certainly won’t be upgrading this any time soon.
Pure Tone Deluxe Soprano Ukulele
The Deluxe Soprano Ukulele from Pure Tone is a fantastic entry-level instrument, boasting quality and value for money. This ukulele is a joy to play, offering new players the look and feel of a professional instrument. Featuring a linden wood body, a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, and a luxurious matte wood finish, this ukulele is easily transportable. It also comes with a carry-bag, offering protection against damage. Here, Pure Tone have created an affordable instrument that has a beautiful tone and is great fun to play.
For those looking for a starter bundle, Bumblebee provide a fantastic deal which includes one of their beginner-friendly soprano ukuleles, a padded gig-bag, strap, tuner, and an exclusive method book, packed full of great popular songs.
Get everything you need to start learning at Musicroom by checking out our unrivalled selection of method books, including the best-selling Hal Leonard Methods series. Alongside this, we stock an extensive catalogue of beginner/easy repertoire that spans a wide range of genres, which includes music from some of the biggest artists globally. Also, be sure to browse our range of ukulele accessories such as strings, tuners, and gig-bags.