Best Banjos Under $2,000 2026
Alright, so you're looking for a good banjo without dropping a grand and a half. It's a smart move - you can get a seriously playable instrument under $2000. Forget the marketing hype; we're talking about getting that bright, driving bluegrass tone and solid construction without the boutique price tag. Let's cut through the noise and find you a banjo that'll cut through the mix at a jam session or record clean in your home studio.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best banjos in 2026 are Deering Goodtime Six-R w/ Kavanjo PU (top pick), Harley Benton HBJ-24 Short Scale Teno w/Case for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton BJ-75Pro 5 String for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $115–$1,742, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Deering Goodtime Six-R w/ Kavanjo PU
by
Deering
Nut width
42.9 mm (1.69")
Scale
666.8 mm (26.25")
Frets
22 frets
Fingerboard radius
381 mm (15")
Strings
6-string
Fingerboard
Pau ferro fingerboard
Folk
Country
Americana
Key Feature:
The Goodtime Six-R with the Kavanjo pickup is a fantastic entry point to 6-string banjo playing. It's got that classic Deering quality and a surprisingly versatile amplified tone, making it perfect for bluegrass enthusiasts or anyone wanting a unique instrument. The build is solid, but be prepared for a bit of weight.
PROS
- • Maple rim delivers a bright, punchy bluegrass tone with excellent projection
- • Kavanjo humbucker provides a versatile, usable amplified signal for stage work
- • Pau Ferro fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience and durability
- • Goodtime Six tailpiece enhances sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • 6-string banjo setup can be tricky, requiring careful intonation adjustments
- • The blond maple resonator might be a bit too bright for some players’ preferences
- • While well-built, the all-maple construction contributes to a relatively hefty feel.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 440388
$1,568
Harley Benton HBJ-24 Short Scale Teno w/Case
Nut width
32 mm (1.26")
Scale
505 mm (19.88")
Frets
17 frets
Strings
4-string
Body
Sapele body
Weight
3.5 kg
Country
Folk
Celtic
Key Feature:
The Harley Benton HBJ-24 is a surprisingly capable little banjo. It's ideal for folks new to the instrument, or those who prefer a shorter scale length for easier reach and a more comfortable feel. The build quality is decent for the price, and it's a great starting point for exploring bluegrass and old-time music.
PROS
- • Sapele body provides a warm, resonant tone suitable for bluegrass.
- • Short scale (505mm) makes it exceptionally comfortable for smaller hands or beginners.
- • Okume neck offers good stability and a surprisingly smooth playing feel.
- • Die-cast tuners ensure reliable tuning stability, a welcome feature at this price.
CONS
- • Amaranth fingerboard, while playable, lacks the traditional feel of maple.
- • Remo head, while functional, might benefit from an upgrade for enhanced tone.
- • Sapele body, while attractive, can be prone to slight finish checking over time.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 574516
$273
Harley Benton BJ-75Pro 5 String
Nut width
31 mm (1.22")
Scale
670 mm (26.38")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Maple body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Traditional Music
Folk
Bluegrass
Key Feature:
This banjo looks stunning with its flamed wood finish and plays with a classic brass tone. The bone nut keeps tuning tight, but the vertical tuners are a bit tricky to use. It feels like a solid choice for bluegrass players who want good looks and a clear sound without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • Flamed maple body and neck add beautiful visual depth to the instrument.
- • Brass tone ring and hoop deliver a bright, traditional bluegrass voice.
- • Bone nut ensures precise intonation across all 22 frets.
- • Remo drumhead provides a solid, responsive attack for driving rhythms.
CONS
- • Vertical string buttons are harder to adjust than standard machine heads.
- • No weight data provided makes handling feel uncertain at this price.
- • String type and head size are not listed in the specs.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 632545
$696
Harley Benton BJ-74Pro 4 String
Nut width
31 mm (1.22")
Scale
584 mm (22.99")
Frets
19 frets
Strings
4-string
Body
Maple body
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Country
Traditional Music
Folk
Key Feature:
This banjo has a beautiful flamed maple finish and a brass tone ring that sounds great for bluegrass. It comes with a case and uses vertical tuning posts for easy setup. The build feels solid with an ebony fingerboard and bone nut. It is a great choice for players who want good looks and reliable sound at a budget-friendly price.
PROS
- • Flamed maple body and neck look stunning on stage.
- • Brass tone ring delivers a classic bluegrass ring.
- • Vertical button heads make tuning quick and easy.
- • Included case protects the instrument during travel.
CONS
- • No head size measurement is provided in text.
- • Weight of the banjo is not listed in specs.
- • Number of strings is not explicitly confirmed as four.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 632546
$638
Harley Benton BJU-15Pro Banjo Ukulele w/Bag
Nut width
35 mm (1.38")
Scale
392 mm (15.43")
Frets
18 frets
Strings
4-string
Weight
1.9 kg
Folk
Bluegrass
Celtic
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton BJU-15Pro is a fantastic entry point into the banjo ukulele world. It's surprisingly well-built for the price, offering a lively, cheerful tone that's perfect for folksy tunes and island vibes. Ideal for beginners or anyone wanting a fun, quirky instrument without a premium investment.
PROS
- • Maple rim delivers a surprisingly bright, articulate tone for its price.
- • Graphite nut improves tuning stability compared to standard plastic nuts.
- • Remo BJ-0800-M2 head provides a consistent, reliable playing surface.
- • Included gig bag offers practical protection and portability for travel.
CONS
- • Vintage-style tuners can feel a bit imprecise and may require frequent adjustments.
- • The neck profile, while playable, might feel a bit thick for smaller hands.
- • Maple/blackwood bridge construction, while functional, lacks the premium feel of higher-end materials.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538313
$173
Harley Benton BJU-15Pro Banjo Ukulele
Nut width
35 mm (1.38")
Scale
392 mm (15.43")
Frets
18 frets
Strings
4-string
Weight
1.9 kg
Americana
Bluegrass
Traditional Music
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton BJU-15Pro is a fun, affordable entry point into the banjo ukulele world. It’s surprisingly well-made for the price, offering a decent tone and playable neck. Ideal for beginners, casual players, or anyone wanting a quirky, unique instrument for folk or island-inspired music.
PROS
- • Maple rim delivers a surprisingly bright, clear banjo-uke tone
- • Blackwood fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience for comfortable fretting
- • Graphite nut minimizes friction and tuning instability, a nice touch at this price
- • Remo BJ-0800 head provides good projection and responsiveness for various playing styles
CONS
- • Maple neck can be prone to movement with humidity changes, requiring careful maintenance
- • Vintage-style tuners are functional, but may lack precision for fine tuning
- • The nylon strings, while standard, limit the instrument's potential for a truly bright, bluegrass sound
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 345282
$162
Harley Benton BJU-10 Banjo Ukulele w/Bag
Nut width
35 mm (1.38")
Scale
346 mm (13.62")
Frets
19 frets
Strings
4-string
Weight
1 kg
Americana
Folk
Bluegrass
Key Feature:
The Harley Benton BJU-10 is a seriously fun and affordable entry point into the world of banjo-uke sounds. It's surprisingly lively and portable, making it perfect for casual players, beginners, or anyone wanting a quirky instrument for campfire jams and lighthearted tunes. Don’t expect a professional-grade instrument, but for the price, it’s a real head-turner.
PROS
- • Maple rim provides a surprisingly bright, resonant tone for the price.
- • The Remo head delivers a consistent, reliable tuning response.
- • Nato neck offers decent stability and a playable feel, considering the cost.
- • Open bracket design allows for easy head adjustment and tension tweaking.
CONS
- • Blackwood fingerboard is likely a lower grade, may show some fret buzz.
- • Open-gear tuners are functional but lack the precision of geared machines.
- • The lightweight construction, while portable, can feel a bit 'floppy' when played aggressively.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538303
$134
Harley Benton BJU-10 Banjo Ukulele
Nut width
35 mm (1.38")
Scale
346 mm (13.62")
Frets
19 frets
Strings
4-string
Weight
1 kg
Celtic
Bluegrass
Americana
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton BJU-10 is a fantastic entry point into the world of banjo ukes. It’s surprisingly well-built for the price, offering a bright, cheerful tone perfect for beginners or those wanting a fun, portable instrument for casual jams. Don't expect pro-level performance, but it's a joy to play and a great value for the money.
PROS
- • Maple rim delivers surprisingly bright, lively tone for the price.
- • Nato neck is stable and playable, showing good straightness.
- • Remo head provides consistent tuning and a decent initial response.
- • Open bracket design allows for easy head tension adjustments.
CONS
- • Graphite saddle can feel a bit 'slick' – may need a different one for optimal feel.
- • Open-gear tuners are functional, but lack the precision of geared machines.
- • Blackwood fingerboard is basic; may show wear more quickly than rosewood.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 345279
$115
#9
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Gold Tone OB-150RF Orange Blossom w/Case
by
Gold Tone
Nut width
31.7 mm (1.25")
Scale
667 mm (26.26")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Traditional Music
Bluegrass
Celtic
Key Feature:
This banjo brings a vintage feel with its matte finish and brass components. The solid maple neck and frosted head work well together for a balanced sound. It suits players who want a traditional look without extra cost.
PROS
- • Vintage Mahogany Matte finish adds classic look
- • One-piece die-cast flange ensures solid durability
- • Zero Glide bone nut offers smooth intonation
- • Maple neck with ebony bridge top provides stability
CONS
- • Weight is not specified in the provided text
- • No specific pickup model listed beyond Terminator
- • Tone ring material is brass rather than nickel
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 538043
$1,742
#10
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Gold Tone MM-150 Mountain Banjo w/Case
by
Gold Tone
Nut width
30.2 mm (1.19")
Scale
665 mm (26.18")
Frets
18 frets
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Folk
Celtic
Bluegrass
Key Feature:
This banjo sounds bright and punchy thanks to its Remo head and white tone ring. The maple neck is sturdy, but the heavy hoops make it a bit heavy to hold. It fits well for bluegrass players who want a solid, traditional tone.
PROS
- • Sturdy multi-ply maple rim for long-term stability.
- • 11-inch Remo HC Renaissance head offers bright attack.
- • White Lady tone ring adds clear midrange presence.
- • Vintage armrest provides comfortable playing posture.
CONS
- • Heavy brass tension hoops add noticeable weight.
- • Scale length of 665 mm may feel long to some.
- • Natural High Gloss finish shows fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 538041
$1,626
#11
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Deering Goodtime Special Banjo
by
Deering
Nut width
31.8 mm (1.25")
Scale
667 mm (26.26")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Americana
Bluegrass
Country
Key Feature:
The Goodtime Special Deco is a fantastic entry point into serious bluegrass playing. It's got a surprisingly robust tone thanks to that Special tone ring, and Deering’s attention to detail really shines through in the build quality. Perfect for beginners and intermediate players looking for a solid, reliable banjo that delivers a professional sound without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Improved tone ring delivers a noticeably brighter, more powerful bluegrass voice.
- • The 3-ply maple rim offers excellent resonance and sustain for its class.
- • Deering's Quiet tailpiece significantly reduces unwanted string buzz and feedback.
- • US Bronze Powder finish adds a touch of class and durability to the hardware.
CONS
- • The maple neck, while comfortable, might feel a little thin for players with larger hands.
- • The 'Deco' inlays, while visually appealing, are a purely aesthetic upgrade and add no functional benefit.
- • While well-built, the all-maple resonator can occasionally exhibit a slightly boxy tone compared to fancier wood combinations.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 601052
$1,393
#12
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Deering Goodtime A/E Banjo
by
Deering
Nut width
31.8 mm (1.25")
Scale
666.8 mm (26.25")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Bluegrass
Country
Celtic
Key Feature:
The Goodtime Deco A/E is a fantastic entry point into bluegrass and old-time music. Its A and E tuning capabilities offer incredible versatility, and the Kavanjo pickup makes it stage-ready. It's a solid choice for players looking for a well-built, affordable banjo that’s ready to play out of the box.
PROS
- • Blonde maple rim offers a warm, woody tone ideal for A and E tunings.
- • Kavanjo humbucker provides a clean, amplified signal with minimal feedback.
- • Maple/ebony bridge and tailpiece enhance sustain and tonal clarity.
- • Deering’s Smile bridge improves resonance and ease of playing.
CONS
- • The 3-ply rim, while good, isn't quite as responsive as a fully violin-grade rim.
- • Open-back design means it's louder and less suited to quiet practice environments.
- • The factory strings are serviceable, but a quick string change will elevate the sound.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 601047
$1,103
#13
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Gold Tone IT-19 Irish Tenor Banjo w/Bag
by
Gold Tone
Nut width
32 mm (1.26")
Scale
571 mm (22.48")
Frets
19 frets
Strings
4-string
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Country
Bluegrass
Folk
Key Feature:
This Gold Tone IT-19 is a solid entry point into Irish tenor banjo playing. The combination of maple and brass delivers a pleasingly warm and bright tone, ideal for traditional tunes and session work. It's a well-built instrument offering good value for players looking for a quality, approachable tenor banjo.
PROS
- • Maple rim provides a warm, focused tone characteristic of Irish banjos
- • Brass tone ring adds projection and a lively, ringing sustain
- • Rosewood fingerboard with shamrock inlays offers comfortable playability and visual appeal
- • Master Planets tuners ensure stable tuning, even with aggressive playing
CONS
- • Vintage Brown Satin finish might be prone to scratches and wear with regular use
- • 12 in head can be a bit sensitive to tuning changes in varying humidity
- • While versatile, it’s primarily suited for Irish traditional music, limiting broader genre applications
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 559623
$1,022
Gold Tone EB-5 Electric 5 string Banjo
by
Gold Tone
Nut width
30 mm (1.18")
Scale
648 mm (25.51")
Frets
24 frets
Strings
5-string
Body
Mahogany body
Folk
Celtic
Traditional Music
Key Feature:
This electric banjo sounds like a solid bluegrass workhorse thanks to its mahogany body and two humbuckers. The extra frets help you reach higher notes easily, but the tuning pegs feel a bit rigid compared to standard banjo heads. It fits well if you need a reliable electric sound for gigs without wanting too many control knobs.
PROS
- • Mahogany body paired with blackwood fretboard for solid resonance
- • Dual humbucker pickups deliver powerful, clean electric tone
- • 24 frets allow for extended high-pitch playing range
- • Natural mahogany finish adds warm visual character
CONS
- • Closed guitar machine heads may lack fine-tuning stability
- • Lacks dedicated volume/tone knobs for tone-shaping
- • Terminator tailpiece design is unconventional for banjos
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 489093
$987
Deering Goodtime Two Banjo
by
Deering
Nut width
31.8 mm (1.25")
Scale
666.8 mm (26.25")
Frets
22 frets
Strings
5-string
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Americana
Folk
Celtic
Key Feature:
The Goodtime Two Deco is a fantastic entry point into bluegrass, offering a bright, powerful sound and a comfortable playing experience. It’s well-built and surprisingly versatile for a resonator banjo – a solid choice for beginners and experienced players alike who want a dependable, great-sounding instrument.
PROS
- • Blonde maple resonator delivers a focused, loud bluegrass tone.
- • 3-ply rim provides excellent sustain and resonance.
- • Maple neck and maple fingerboard offer a comfortable, responsive feel.
- • US Bronze Powder Finish hardware adds a touch of class and durability.
CONS
- • The satin natural finish can feel a little plain for some players.
- • While easy to play, the tone might be too bright for some genres.
- • The Goodtime Two is relatively heavy compared to open-back banjos.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 573552
$929
Every banjos that matches
106 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Gold Tone CC-100R 5 String Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $929 |
| 17 | Deering Goodtime Two Banjo Lefth. | Nut width 31.8 mm (1.25") · Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $870 |
| 18 | Deering Goodtime Americana | Nut width 31.8 mm (1.25") · Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $812 |
| 19 | Deering Goodtime Banjo | Nut width 31.8 mm (1.25") · Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $661 |
| 20 | Deering Goodtime Plectrum Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 4-string · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $661 |
| 21 | Richwood RMB-905-A 5 String Banjo | Nut width 30 mm (1.18") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $522 |
| 22 | Gold Tone AC-12A Oldtime SC 5 St Banjo | Nut width 36.5 mm (1.44") · Scale 597 mm (23.5") · Frets 18 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $464 |
| 23 | Richwood RMB-906 6 String Banjo | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $464 |
| 24 | Gold Tone AC-1LN Openback Long Neck 5Str | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 813 mm (32.01") · Frets 25 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $452 |
| 25 | Richwood RMB-904-SS Tenor Banjo | Nut width 30.5 mm (1.2") · Scale 500 mm (19.69") · Frets 17 frets · Strings 4-string · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $452 |
| 26 | Gold Tone Openback 5-String Banjo 12“ | Nut width 36.5 mm (1.44") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 18 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $447 |
| 27 | Richwood RMB-904 Tenor Banjo | Nut width 30.5 mm (1.2") · Scale 575 mm (22.64") · Frets 19 frets · Strings 4-string · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $440 |
| 28 | Harley Benton BJ-55Pro 5 String Banjo w/Bag | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $278 |
| 29 | Harley Benton BJ-55Pro 5 String Banjo | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body | $266 |
| 30 | Harley Benton HBJ-26 w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string · Body Sapele body | $196 |
| 31 | Harley Benton HBJ-24 Short Scale Teno w/Bag | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 505 mm (19.88") · Frets 17 frets · Strings 4-string · Body Sapele body | $196 |
| 32 | Harley Benton HBJ-26 | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string · Body Sapele body | $185 |
| 33 | Harley Benton HBJ-24 Short Scale Tenor Banjo | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 505 mm (19.88") · Frets 17 frets · Strings 4-string · Body Sapele body | $185 |
| 34 | Ibanez B300-BK Banjo | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Strings 5-string · Body Walnut body · Fingerboard Purpleheart fingerboard | $754 |
| 35 | Ortega OBJ150OP-WB | Nut width 31 mm (1.22") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Mahogany body · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $299 |
| 36 | Gold Tone BC-350 Bob Carlin Banjo | Nut width 34.9 mm (1.37") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 18 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,975 |
| 37 | Pisgah Roscoe Walnut 12" | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 17 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,970 |
| 38 | Gold Tone TS-250 Tenor Banjo w/Case | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 575 mm (22.64") · Frets 19 frets · Strings 4-string | $1,858 |
| 39 | Ortega OBJ850-MA | Nut width 30 mm (1.18") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,509 |
| 40 | Ortega OBJ950-FMA | Nut width 30 mm (1.18") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,486 |
| 41 | Gold Tone GT-500 6 String Banjitar | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 21 frets · Strings 6-string | $1,161 |
| 42 | Gold Tone CB-100 Clawhammer Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 17 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,103 |
| 43 | Gold Tone BG-150F Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,045 |
| 44 | Gold Tone CC-100R 5 String Banjo Left | Nut width 30 mm (1.18") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $929 |
| 45 | Gold Tone CC-Carlin 12 5-str.Banjo | Nut width 35 mm (1.38") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 18 frets · Strings 5-string | $929 |
| 46 | Gold Tone EB-6 E-Banjo w/Bag | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Frets 24 frets · Strings 6-string | $905 |
| 47 | Gold Tone CC-100RW 5 String Banjo | Nut width 33.3 mm (1.31") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $870 |
| 48 | Gold Tone CC-Carlin 12 LH 5-str.Banjo | Nut width 35 mm (1.38") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 18 frets · Strings 5-string | $870 |
| 49 | Ortega OBJ550W-SNT | Nut width 30 mm (1.18") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $812 |
| 50 | Deering Goodtime 19-Fret Tenor Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 584.2 mm (23") · Frets 19 frets · Strings 4-string | $754 |
| 51 | Gold Tone CC-OTA Clahammer Banjo Set | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 598 mm (23.54") · Frets 16 frets · Strings 5-string | $731 |
| 52 | Gold Tone CC-50RP Cripple Creek Banjo | Nut width 30 mm (1.18") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $731 |
| 53 | Gewa VGS Banjo Premium 6-saitig | Nut width 44 mm (1.73") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string | $696 |
| 54 | Deering Deering Goodtime Banjo LH | Nut width 31.8 mm (1.25") · Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $661 |
| 55 | Gewa VGS Banjo Premium 4-saitig | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 580 mm (22.83") · Frets 19 frets · Strings 4-string | $626 |
| 56 | Gold Tone CC-50/L Cripple Creek Lefthand | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $615 |
| 57 | Gold Tone CC-50 Vintage Braun Satin | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $580 |
| 58 | Gewa VGS Banjo Premium 5-saitig | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $557 |
| 59 | Gold Tone AC-5 5 String Resonator Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $557 |
| 60 | Gold Tone AC-1 5 Str. Openback Banjo LH | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $406 |
| 61 | Gewa VGS Banjo Select 4-saitig | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 580 mm (22.83") · Frets 19 frets · Strings 4-string | $382 |
| 62 | Gewa Banjo Select 6-saitig | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string | $382 |
| 63 | Gold Tone AC-1 5 String Openback Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $371 |
| 64 | Gold Tone AC Traveler 5 string Banjo | Nut width 31.8 mm (1.25") · Scale 596.9 mm (23.5") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $348 |
| 65 | Gold Tone AC-4 Openback Tenor Banjo | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 575 mm (22.64") · Frets 19 frets · Strings 4-string | $348 |
| 66 | Richwood RMB-606 Guitar Banjo | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 664 mm (26.14") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string | $348 |
| 67 | Harley Benton BJ-65Pro 6 String Banjo w/Bag | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string | $301 |
| 68 | Harley Benton BJ-65Pro 6 String Banjo | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string | $289 |
| 69 | Harley Benton BJO-35Pro 5 Str. Banjo w/Bag | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $185 |
| 70 | Harley Benton BJO-35Pro 5 String Banjo OB | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $173 |
| 71 | Gold Tone MC-150R/P Maple Classic Banjo | Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,732 |
| 72 | Gold Tone OB-100 Orange Blossom Banjo | Scale 666.7 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $1,732 |
| 73 | Ortega OBJ300-WB | Nut width 31 mm (1.22") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $465 |
| 74 | Gold Tone AC-1FL Open Back Fretless | Nut width 30.2 mm (1.19") · Scale 665 mm (26.18") · Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $464 |
| 75 | Harley Benton HBJ-25LH w/Bag | Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Sapele body | $208 |
| 76 | Harley Benton HBJ-25 w/Bag | Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Sapele body | $196 |
| 77 | Harley Benton HBJ-25LH | Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Sapele body | $196 |
| 78 | Harley Benton HBJ-25 | Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string · Body Sapele body | $173 |
| 79 | Gold Tone OB-150 Orange Blossom | Nut width 31.7 mm (1.25") · Scale 667 mm (26.26") · Strings 5-string | $1,858 |
| 80 | Recording King RK-Elite-75 | Scale 700 mm (27.56") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,742 |
| 81 | Deering Goodtime Six-R | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Strings 6-string | $1,161 |
| 82 | Recording King RK-R36-BR | Scale 666.8 mm (26.25") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,103 |
| 83 | Recording King RK-R35-BR | Scale 670 mm (26.38") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $1,080 |
| 84 | Gold Tone Irish Tenor Banjo 12" | Nut width 31.7 mm (1.25") · Scale 495 mm (19.49") · Frets 17 frets | $1,022 |
| 85 | Deering Goodtime 6 Banjo 11" | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 6-string | $901 |
| 86 | Gold Tone AC 6+ | Nut width 42.9 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Strings 6-string | $689 |
| 87 | Gold Tone AC 6+ Lefthand | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 648 mm (25.51") · Strings 6-string | $673 |
| 88 | Gold Tone BUT Banjo Ukulele w/Case | Nut width 35 mm (1.38") · Scale 432 mm (17.01") · Frets 20 frets | $626 |
| 89 | Recording King Songster Resonator Banjo | Scale 667 mm (26.26") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $580 |
| 90 | Recording King Dirty 30s 3S Open Back Banjo | Scale 667 mm (26.26") · Frets 22 frets · Strings 5-string | $348 |
| 91 | Epiphone MB-100 | Nut width 31.8 mm (1.25") · Scale 667 mm (26.26") · Strings 5-string | $289 |
| 92 | Gold Tone CC-Irish Tenor Cripple Creek | Scale 501 mm (19.72") · Frets 17 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $812 |
| 93 | Gold Tone Irish Tenor Banjo 11" IT-250 | Scale 502 mm (19.76") · Frets 17 frets | $1,161 |
| 94 | Deering Goodtime 17-Fret Tenor | Frets 17 frets · Strings 4-string | $743 |
| 95 | Ibanez B200 | Nut width 32 mm (1.26") · Strings 5-string | $603 |
| 96 | Ortega OBJE356-SBK | Frets 21 frets · Strings 6-string | $599 |
| 97 | Gold Tone CC-Mini Cripple Creek | Scale 502 mm (19.76") · Frets 22 frets | $580 |
| 98 | Ortega OBJ350/6-SBK | Frets 21 frets · Strings 6-string | $475 |
| 99 | Epiphone Earl Scruggs Golden Deluxe | Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Ebony fingerboard | $1,312 |
| 100 | Epiphone Mastertone Classic Banjo | Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $1,022 |
| 101 | Epiphone Mastertone Bow Tie OB Banjo | Strings 5-string · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $812 |
| 102 | Deering Artisan Goodtime Two | Strings 5-string | $1,335 |
| 103 | Deering Artisan Goodtime OB 5 | Strings 5-string | $987 |
| 104 | Deering Goodtime Two 19 Fret | Frets 19 frets | $929 |
| 105 | Deering Goodtime Two 17 Fret Tenor | Frets 17 frets | $859 |
| 106 | Thomann Ukulele Banjo | not published | $255 |
Banjos by the numbers
Measured across all 106 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $661
from $173 to $1,732
Nut width
median 31.8 mm (1.25")
from 30 mm (1.18") to 43 mm (1.69") · 81 models
Scale
median 665 mm (26.18")
from 432 mm (17.01") to 670 mm (26.38") · 91 models
Frets
median 22
from 17 to 22 · 92 models
Strings
median 5-string
from 4-string to 6-string · 98 models
Weight
median 1.9 kg
from 1 kg to 1.9 kg · 5 models
Body
sapele, mahogany, maple
most common · 16 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, ebony, maple
most common · 31 models
How to Choose the Best Banjos
1
Tone & Resonation
A good banjo needs that crisp, cutting bluegrass tone, but also some warmth and sustain. Cheap resonators often sound thin and brittle - listen for a full, balanced response across the frequencies. You want it to project without sounding harsh.
2
Hardware Quality
Those geared tuners aren't just for show; they're essential for stable tuning, especially when you're pushing the banjo hard during a fast-paced tune. Cheap hardware will slip and buzz, killing your vibe.
3
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is everything. A thick, clunky neck will fight your hand, while a too-thin neck can feel flimsy. The action (string height) needs to be low enough for easy playing but high enough to avoid buzzing - a tricky balance to find.
4
Rim & Head Material
The rim is the heart of the banjo's tone. Maple is common, but the quality of the wood and construction matters. The head material (usually a Remo or Evans) significantly impacts the sound - thicker heads give a more controlled, woody tone, while thinner heads are brighter and more responsive.
5
Build Quality & Finish
Look for solid construction - no loose hardware, no sharp fret ends, and a finish that can withstand the rigors of gigging. A poorly finished banjo might look pretty in the shop, but it'll start showing wear and tear fast.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're going to find some compromises. Often, it's the finish or hardware that gets downgraded to keep the price down. Don't expect exotic woods or intricate inlays - focus on the fundamentals: good tone, solid hardware, and a comfortable neck. A slightly higher-end head can make a huge difference in the overall sound, so if you're unsure where to spend, prioritize that.
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 106 banjos 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
Open-backs are mellower, often used for old-time music. Resonators (like the ones we're focusing on) have a back plate to project the sound, making them ideal for bluegrass - they cut through a band better.
Hugely important. Friction pegs are a pain - tuning drifts constantly, especially when you're really digging in. Geared tuners let you keep your banjo in tune, which is critical for a gig or a serious practice session.
Absolutely. A new head is the easiest and most impactful upgrade. You can also swap out hardware, but that's a bit more involved and requires some basic banjo maintenance skills.
If you plan on recording or playing through a PA system, a pickup is essential. The voicing of the pickup significantly affects the recorded tone - look for one that's relatively natural and doesn't color the sound too much.
Generally, a good action is around 0.080" - 0.120" at the 12th fret. It's something you can adjust yourself with a wrench, but if you're not comfortable, take it to a luthier - a bad adjustment can make the banjo unplayable.
