Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses for Beginner 2026
Alright, so you're left-handed and want to dive into the world of 5-string bass? That's awesome, but it's a bigger jump than going from a 4-string to a 5-string right-handed. The extra string adds complexity, and finding a lefty 5-string that's actually playable and sounds decent can be a real challenge. This list isn't about the flashiest basses; it's about finding something that'll actually help you learn and won't leave you frustrated before you've even learned your first scale.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best 5-string lefthanded basses in 2026 are Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series (top pick), Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Bundle for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive w/Bag for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $173–$1,102, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Series
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Extended Range
Advanced Techniques
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550LH Progressive is a solid, affordable 5-string option for players wanting a punchy, modern tone. The long scale really tightens up the low B, and the alder body gives it a surprisingly full sound. It's a great choice for rock, metal, or anything needing some serious low-end grunt.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern D-neck profile offers comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tight low-end and improved clarity.
- • Die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning and reliable performance.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
- • Humbucker pickups, while powerful, limit versatility for cleaner, more nuanced tones.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while cost-effective, lacks the warmth of a set-neck.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 317318
$220
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive Bundle
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Advanced Techniques
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550LH is a seriously impressive package for the price. The long scale and humbuckers give it a powerful, modern tone perfect for rock, metal, and funk. It's a great entry point for new 5-string players or a solid backup bass for more experienced musicians.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Modern D-neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tighter low-end response and improved clarity.
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and precise adjustments.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboard can feel a bit harder than rosewood or ebony.
- • Humbucker pickups might lack the nuance needed for more delicate playing styles.
- • Gig bag is functional but basic; a hard case would offer better protection.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539267
$231
Harley Benton B-550LH BK Progressive w/Bag
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Jatoba fingerboard
Natural Playing
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton B-550 is a surprisingly solid package. The long scale and alder body give it a punchy, defined low end, perfect for rock, metal, or funk. It's a great entry point for 5-string bass players wanting a versatile and affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the sound.
- • Modern D neck profile is comfortable and fast for most players.
- • Die-cast tuners offer reliable tuning stability and easy adjustments.
- • Long scale (864mm) delivers tighter low-end response and improved clarity.
CONS
- • Black walnut fretboards can show wear more easily than rosewood or ebony.
- • Humbucker pickups might be a bit too aggressive for some genres like jazz.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 539266
$231
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Professional Performance
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty MB-5LH is a solid entry point into 5-string bass playing, especially for those on a budget. The coil-split humbucker is a clever touch, giving you more tonal options than you'd expect at this price. It's ideal for beginners or players wanting a versatile, budget-friendly bass for rock, pop, or even some funk.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Humbucker with coil split offers versatility – from thick lows to brighter tones.
- • Die-cast bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain compared to cheaper options.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade will significantly improve playability.
- • Roseacer fretboard might exhibit minor fret sprout – a common budget bass issue.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to a neck-through design.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 508507
$173
Harley Benton MV-5PJ LH Black
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This left-handed five-string fits well in a small shop or on a tour bus. The Canadian sycamore neck feels solid under your fingers while the custom pickups keep the low end tight. It suits left-handed players who need five strings but don't want to overspend.
PROS
- • Left-handed 5-string design fits smaller frames well
- • Alder body offers bright, punchy bass response
- • Canadian sycamore neck provides solid resonance
- • Custom wound AlNiCo pickups deliver tight low end
CONS
- • No weight is listed, likely heavy for lefties
- • Single volume control limits volume balancing options
- • Sung Il bridge is standard, not a premium unit
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 571188
$266
Harley Benton MB-5LH SBK w/Bag
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
21 frets
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Left-Handed Bass Players
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty MB-5LH is a fantastic entry point to 5-string bass playing. The coil-split humbucker gives you a surprising amount of tonal range, and the gig bag is a huge bonus. It's a great option for beginners or anyone needing a reliable, budget-friendly bass for practice or gigging.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and warm low-end.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy, responsive feel and quick action.
- • Humbucker with coil split unlocks versatility; cleans to growl in seconds.
- • Deluxe gig bag is genuinely well-padded and robust for protection.
CONS
- • Roseacer fingerboard might feel a little rough compared to ebony or maple.
- • Bolt-on construction lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade is highly recommended.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 540388
$196
Harley Benton MV-5PJ LH Black w/Case
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Advanced Techniques
Natural Playing
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This left-handed Harley Benton MV-5PJ is a seriously impressive value. The caramelized neck is a real highlight, offering a comfortable feel and a touch of sweetness to the tone. It’s perfect for players wanting a versatile 5-string with a vintage vibe and modern playability, especially those on a budget.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain
- • Caramelized sycamore neck offers a smooth, fast feel and unique character
- • Custom-wound VJB pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy sound
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles enhances clarity and tuning stability
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction can limit high-end sustain compared to set-neck designs
- • Roseacer skunk stripe may not appeal to all players aesthetically
- • Budget-friendly components might require occasional setup adjustments
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597069
$301
Marcus Miller Z3-5 Sparkle Black LH
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The Z3-5 Sparkle Black LH is a seriously fun bass for lefties looking for a versatile and affordable instrument. The Heritage-3 preamp gives you a surprising amount of tonal control, and the Sire pickup delivers a modern, punchy tone that cuts through a mix. It's a great choice for gigging musicians and students alike who want a 5-string without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Mahogany body provides a warm, resonant foundation for a full sound.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp delivers versatile tonal shaping options.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers snappy response and comfortable playability.
- • Sire Standard MM humbucker delivers a punchy, modern low-end presence.
CONS
- • Open-gear tuners might not offer the absolute finest tuning stability.
- • Sparkle Black finish, while striking, can be prone to fingerprints.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits sustain compared to neck-through designs.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 586977
$557
Marcus Miller Z7-5 Antique White LH
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Advanced Techniques
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Bass Players
Key Feature:
This Z7-5 is a serious contender for the left-handed bassist seeking a versatile and well-equipped instrument. The roasted maple neck and Sire pickups offer a modern feel and a wide range of tones, making it great for funk, fusion, and beyond. It's a really solid package for the price.
PROS
- • Roasted maple neck offers exceptional stability and a smooth, resonant feel.
- • Sire pickups deliver a balanced tone – punchy bridge, warm neck.
- • Marcus Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile EQ shaping and tonal options.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a fast, slick playing surface with excellent note definition.
CONS
- • Alder body might feel a touch lightweight for some players' preference.
- • The 'Blender' control can be tricky to dial in for subtle tone shaping.
- • Scale length might feel long for players accustomed to shorter scale basses.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584255
$645
Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Sting Ray5 CH Blue LH
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Left-Handed Bass Players
Professional Performance
Key Feature:
This Sterling StingRay5 is a seriously good deal for a lefty. You're getting a lot of Music Man DNA – that aggressive StingRay tone and solid build – at a surprisingly affordable price. It’s a great workhorse bass for rock, funk, and heavier genres where you need that articulate, punchy low-end.
PROS
- • Jabon body offers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Maple neck provides excellent clarity and a comfortable, familiar feel.
- • H-1 humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive low-end punch.
- • Active preamp allows for significant tonal shaping and output boost.
CONS
- • Jabon can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more premium woods.
- • Open gear tuners aren't *quite* as precise as sealed gear alternatives.
- • 34” scale might feel long for players with smaller hands.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 585171
$626
Marcus Miller M2 5 TBK 2nd Gen LH
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
889 mm (35")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Left-Handed Bass Players
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing
Key Feature:
This left-handed bass uses a mahogany body for warmth and Marcus Blue pickups for punch. It sits on a maple neck with rosewood fingerboard and offers great EQ control. It suits lefty players who want a solid, modern sound without extra setup costs.
PROS
- • Left-handed design fits musicians who play backwards
- • Mahogany body offers warm, resonant fundamental tones
- • Marcus Blue Humbuckers deliver thick, high-output sound
- • Heritage-3 preamp provides detailed frequency control
CONS
- • Transparent Black finish may show scratches easily
- • No string gauge options listed in the specs
- • Missing bridge or string tension data entirely
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 637078
$626
Ibanez SR305EBL-WK
by
Ibanez
Strings
5-string
Body
Okoume body
Proper Ergonomics
Advanced Techniques
Extended Range
Key Feature:
The SR305EBL-WK is a seriously capable 5-string bass, especially for the price. It’s a great entry point into the Ibanez world, offering a modern sound and comfortable feel. Perfect for gigging musicians or students looking for a versatile and affordable instrument.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body provides a balanced, warm tone with good sustain.
- • Maple/walnut SR5 neck offers excellent stability and a comfortable playing feel.
- • PowerSpan Dual Coil pickups deliver a thick, modern low-end with clarity.
- • 3-Way tap switch expands tonal versatility for various genres.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while good, isn’t as premium feeling as more expensive woods.
- • Jatoba fretboard can feel a little harder than rosewood or ebony.
- • Cosmo Black hardware, while visually appealing, is prone to minor finish wear.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 509716
$480
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Warwick RB Corvette $$ LH 5 NB TS
by
Warwick
Nut width
45 mm (1.77")
Scale
866 mm (34.09")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
660 mm (25.98")
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Wenge fingerboard
Weight
4.4 kg
Natural Playing
Extended Range
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This left-handed Warwick Corvette $$ is a solid choice for players wanting a punchy, aggressive 5-string tone without the premium price tag. The bolt-on neck gives it a lively feel, and the MEC pickups provide plenty of growl for rock, metal, and heavier genres. It's a great all-rounder for gigging musicians.
PROS
- • Ash body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the tone
- • Bolt-on neck offers a snappy, responsive feel and bright attack
- • MEC humbuckers deliver a powerful, aggressive tone with excellent clarity
- • Wenge fretboard adds a touch of exotic warmth and sustain
CONS
- • The bolt-on neck, while responsive, lacks the seamless integration of a neck-through design
- • Transparent Matt finish can be a fingerprint magnet and require careful cleaning
- • The 2-band EQ is relatively basic, limiting tonal sculpting options
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 442666
$1,103
Marcus Miller P7-5 Sandblasted CAR TE LH
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Extended Range
Professional Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This bass fits left-handed players who want a five-string without breaking the bank. The solid mahogany body feels warm, while the ash top keeps it light. You get crisp stainless steel frets and modern pickups that cut through the mix. It is a solid choice for players needing a reliable, affordable five-string.
PROS
- • Affordable left-handed option for modern five-string players.
- • Solid mahogany body paired with lightweight ash top.
- • High-quality stainless steel frets on a C profile neck.
- • Modern-S bridge with Super-PJ Revolution pickups for clear tone.
CONS
- • No weight rating provided for potential handling issues.
- • Lack of specific string gauge details in the text.
- • Blender control function not clearly explained in description.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615138
$894
Marcus Miller V7 Swamp Ash-5 Reissue TS LH
Nut width
46 mm (1.81")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Strings
5-string
Body
Ash body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Professional Performance
Natural Playing
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This V7 is a fantastic left-handed option for players seeking a versatile, vintage-inspired 5-string. The swamp ash body gives it a warm, woody tone, while the Super J pickups deliver plenty of punch. It's a solid choice for funk, blues, and classic rock players wanting a quality instrument without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Swamp ash body delivers resonant, warm, and articulate low-end response.
- • Marcus Super J Revolution pickups offer a balanced, vintage-inspired tone.
- • Heritage-3 preamp provides versatile tonal shaping with the Blender control.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel favored by many.
CONS
- • Swamp ash construction can make it slightly heavier than some alternatives.
- • Edgeless fingerboard might not appeal to players preferring sharper fret edges.
- • Limited pickup options; not ideal for extreme, modern high-gain sounds.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 584323
$882
Every 5-string lefthanded basses that matches
44 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Marcus Miller P6-5 Sandblasted BK LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $870 |
| 17 | Warwick RB Star Bass 5 SBHP LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Fingerboard radius 660 mm (25.98") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 3.9 kg | $1,161 |
| 18 | Sandberg California VM2 5 GB LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 22 frets · Fingerboard radius 356 mm (14.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Ash body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $2,521 |
| 19 | Marcus Miller V6-5 Sandblasted BK LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $801 |
| 20 | Marcus Miller F10 Dc 5 Natural LH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $2,091 |
| 21 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,277 |
| 22 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21-5 Vin MA BK LH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,161 |
| 23 | Ibanez BTB605L-TGF | Nut width 47 mm (1.85") · Scale 889 mm (35") · Fingerboard radius 400 mm (15.75") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,045 |
| 24 | Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 BK LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 406 mm (15.98") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,045 |
| 25 | Marcus Miller M6 Headless 5 MS LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Frets 24 frets · Fingerboard radius 406 mm (15.98") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $1,045 |
| 26 | Marcus Miller V7 5 New Gen Antique White LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $929 |
| 27 | Marcus Miller V7 5 New Gen TS LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $929 |
| 28 | Marcus Miller V7 Alder-5 BUR 2nd Gen LH | Nut width 46 mm (1.81") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Strings 5-string · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $696 |
| 29 | Tobias Growler V LH | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Paulownia body · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard | $1,626 |
| 30 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 24-5 Fret MA LH B | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,335 |
| 31 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,242 |
| 32 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 RM LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $1,242 |
| 33 | Ibanez SR505AL-MHL | Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $870 |
| 34 | Ibanez SR2605L-CBB Premium | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $2,033 |
| 35 | Ibanez SRMS805L-DTW | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,452 |
| 36 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mor LH OWH | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,428 |
| 37 | Sadowsky MetroExp24 Mod 5 Morado LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,393 |
| 38 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint JJ5 Mora LH BK | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,277 |
| 39 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 HybPJ5 Mor LH WH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,277 |
| 40 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Vint 5 OW LH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,277 |
| 41 | Sadowsky MetroExpress 21 Hyb 5 SBHP LH | Nut width 47.5 mm (1.87") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,254 |
| 42 | Sadowsky MetroExp21 Vint MJ5 Mora LH BK | Nut width 44.5 mm (1.75") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Strings 5-string · Body Okoume body | $1,161 |
| 43 | Warwick RB Corvette Classic LH 5 AS TH | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Wenge fingerboard · Weight 4 kg | $929 |
| 44 | Ibanez EHB1005MSL-SFM | Nut width 45 mm (1.77") · Strings 5-string · Body Basswood body | $1,533 |
5-String Lefthanded Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 44 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $1,045
from $220 to $1,626
Nut width
median 45 mm (1.77")
from 44.5 mm (1.75") to 47.5 mm (1.87") · 41 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 889 mm (35") · 37 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 660 mm (25.98") · 21 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 5-string to 5-string · 44 models
Body
okoume, alder, mahogany
most common · 38 models
Fingerboard
maple, rosewood, ebony
most common · 29 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 11 models
Frets
median 21
from 20 to 24 · 18 models
How to Choose the Best 5-String Lefthanded Basses
1
Playability
Neck profile, string spacing, and action are everything for a beginner. A thick, unwieldy neck or strings too close together will make learning a nightmare. We're looking for something comfortable to hold and relatively easy to fret.
2
Pickup Voicing
That extra low B string can quickly turn muddy if your pickups aren't up to the task. We're prioritizing pickups that offer clarity and definition, even when digging into the low end - you want a thump, not a swamp.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge will kill your intonation and make playing gigs a pain. You don't need boutique hardware, but it needs to hold a tune and stay in place without constant tweaking.
4
Overall Build Quality
A bass that rattles or has obvious finish flaws isn't inspiring. We're looking for something reasonably well-built that will withstand the rigors of practice and the occasional gig.
5
Value for Money
Let's be honest, 5-string basses are inherently more expensive. We're balancing features and performance against the price point, looking for the best bang for your buck without sacrificing playability.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the 'cool' factor. A 5-string is more demanding than a 4-string, so prioritize playability above all else. Cheaper basses often cut corners on the bridge and tuners - those are the first things to upgrade if you're on a tight budget. Seriously consider getting a professional setup - it'll make even a decent bass play like a dream. And remember, a good bass doesn't need a ton of knobs or fancy finishes; it needs to feel good and sound decent.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 44 5-string lefthanded basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a bigger commitment. The learning curve is steeper, and you'll be reaching for notes that are further apart. If you're serious about expanding your range and exploring different genres, it can be amazing. But if you're just starting out, a 4-string is a perfectly valid choice.
For a beginner, passive is generally easier. Active pickups need a power source, and the added complexity can be distracting when you're just trying to learn the basics. Passive pickups give you a more straightforward, natural tone.
A setup is when a tech adjusts the bass's action, intonation, and other factors to optimize playability. Most new basses need a setup to play their best - it's like getting your car aligned.
Focus on the core components: neck, bridge, and pickups. You can always upgrade the hardware later. Don't be swayed by fancy finishes or extra features you won't use.
That's super personal, but generally, a C or D shape is a good starting point. It's comfortable for most players. Go to a store and feel a few different necks - what feels good in your hand is what matters.
