AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Ukuleles for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Kala MK-B Makala Series Baritone Ukulele ($134). Ortega RU5-BA Baritone Ukulele gives you the most for the money at $106. Kala KA-BE Mahogany Baritone Ukulele leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 42 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Kala MK-B Makala Series Baritone Ukulele
Makala MK-B Baritone Ukulele · Kala
10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale510 mm (20.08")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Makala MK-B is a fantastic entry point into the baritone ukulele world. Its all-mahogany construction gives it a mellow, woody voice that's surprisingly rich for the price. This is a great choice for beginners or players looking for a comfortable, affordable baritone with a classic vibe.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top delivers a warm, resonant, and surprisingly full tone
- Rosewood fingerboard provides a comfortable playing experience with decent clarity
- Aquila Super Nylgut strings offer a bright, balanced sound and good projection
Cons
- Plastic nut and bridge feel budget-oriented and may impact sustain
- Mahogany construction can be prone to movement with humidity changes
78AudioFu
Index↓ 7.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$145 · Aug 17$134 now$134€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets18 frets
The Ortega RU5-BA is a fantastic entry point into the baritone ukulele world. Its spruce top gives it a surprisingly clear voice, and the overall build is solid for the price. It's ideal for beginners or players wanting a warm, full-bodied baritone sound without a premium investment.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly bright and resonant tone.
- Sapele back and sides offer warmth and projection for its class.
- Okoume neck provides a comfortable, stable feel for extended playing.
Cons
- Sapele can sometimes exhibit a slightly 'boxed-in' sound compared to more premium woods.
- Limited fret access beyond the 18th fret restricts higher register exploration.
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- Frets18 frets
The Baton Rouge V2-B Sun is a fantastic entry point into baritone ukulele playing. Its mahogany construction delivers a lovely, warm tone, and the guitar-style tuning machines make it comfortable for guitarists. It's a great choice for singer-songwriters and players seeking a relaxed, mellow vibe.
Pros
- Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones ideal for mellow playing.
- Nubone nut and saddle improve sustain and intonation noticeably.
- Open-pore finish allows the mahogany to breathe, enhancing its natural tone.
Cons
- Nato neck, while stable, lacks the premium feel of a mahogany or ebony neck.
- Walnut fretboard can show wear more quickly than rosewood or ebony.
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- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Frets19 frets
- BodySapele body
The Flight NUB310 is a seriously impressive baritone uke for the money. The sapele construction gives it a full, mellow voice that's great for strumming chords or fingerpicking. It’s perfect for beginners or experienced players wanting an affordable, well-built baritone with a comfortable feel.
Pros
- Sapele body delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection
- Okoume neck provides comfortable playability and stability
- Walnut fretboard and bone nut/saddle contribute to a clean, bright sound
Cons
- Sapele finish can be prone to minor scratches with heavy use
- Arched back, while visually appealing, might slightly compromise sustain compared to a flat back
51AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale510 mm (20.08")
- Frets19 frets
This Cascha baritone is a solid entry point into the larger ukulele world. It's surprisingly full-sounding and easy to play, especially if you’re coming from guitar – the tuning is the same! It's a fantastic choice for beginners or anyone wanting a mellow, warm ukulele voice without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant tone.
- Rosewood fingerboard offers comfortable playability and good note definition.
- The longer baritone scale provides a fuller, guitar-like sound.
Cons
- Mahogany can be a bit 'woody' – lacks the sparkle of koa.
- Factory Aquila strings are decent, but an upgrade is recommended.
43AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$134 now$134€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale510 mm (20.08")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This baritone uke offers a deep sound thanks to its mahogany body and wound strings. The Graph Tech hardware keeps playability smooth. It suits players wanting a bigger voice without needing extra gear.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body and neck for a warm tone.
- Graph Tech NuBone nut and saddle for smooth action.
- Wound D and G strings add low-end depth.
Cons
- No electronics listed for amplification options.
- Total length is quite long for standard players.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale513 mm (20.2")
- Frets18 frets
This baritone uke plays big and deep thanks to its long scale and teak wood. The Graph Tech hardware helps it hold notes longer than standard models. It fits players who want a full sound without extra electronics.
Pros
- Solid teak wood gives a warm, rich tone right out of the box.
- Graph Tech NuBone nut and bridge add durability and clear sustain.
- Long 513mm scale length produces deeper, bassier baritone notes.
Cons
- Teak wood is heavy, making this ukulele feel quite substantial.
- Matte finish may show fingerprints and wear over time.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala KA-BE Mahogany Baritone Ukulele
KA-B Satin Mahogany Baritone · Kala
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale509 mm (20.04")
- Frets18 frets
The Kala KA-B is a really solid entry into the baritone ukulele world. The all-mahogany build gives it a mellow, full sound that’s perfect for fingerstyle players or anyone wanting a guitar-like feel in a smaller package. It’s a great option for those transitioning from guitar or looking for a rich, warm ukulele tone.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers warm, resonant tone with surprising depth
- GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle improve sustain and tuning stability
- Rosewood fretboard offers a comfortable playing experience with good feel
Cons
- Mahogany can be a bit 'woody' – lacks the brightness of some other tonewoods
- Scale length, while standard for baritone, might feel long for ukulele beginners
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale430 mm (16.93")
- Frets19 frets
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
This baritone uke plays big and warm thanks to its mahogany body and spruce top. The walnut fingerboard is smooth, and the extra frets make it easy to reach high notes. It is a great choice for players who want a full sound without extra wiring. Perfect for those who enjoy deep, resonant tones in a portable package.
Pros
- Solid mahogany back and sides give warm tone
- Light spruce top adds bright response
- Walnut fingerboard feels smooth under fingers
Cons
- No electronics means no built-in pickup
- Mahogany neck may feel heavy in hand
49AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$179 now$179€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Frets19 frets
The Flight Iris BK is a surprisingly well-built baritone ukulele that punches above its price point. The Spruce top gives it a clear, defined voice, while the mahogany adds warmth. It’s a fantastic option for beginner to intermediate players who want a full, rich baritone tone without a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Solid Spruce top delivers a bright, responsive, and articulate tone.
- Okoume neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable playing feel.
- Slotted headstock adds a touch of classic elegance and improved string angle.
Cons
- Mahogany back and sides can slightly dampen the top's potential brilliance.
- The 38mm nut width might feel a bit wide for players accustomed to smaller ukes.
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$197 now$197€175 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 42 baritone ukuleles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Thomann Baritone EU Ukulele with PUThomann37Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 12
Kala KA-B Baritone UkuleleCT-SMH-BG Baritone Ukulele · Kala79Stable$504€449$504€449Check ↗
- 13
Kala KA-B Baritone UkuleleKA-CT-SA-BG Baritone Ukulele · Kala79Stable$606€539$606€539Check ↗
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Kala KA-B Baritone UkuleleCT-SSRW-BG-C Baritone Ukulele · Kala79Stable$673€599$673€599Check ↗
- 15
Kala KA-B Baritone UkuleleKALA KA-BE Baritone Ukulele · Kala76Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
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Kala KA-B Baritone UkuleleKA-ZCT-B Baritone Ukulele · Kala76Stable$358€319$358€319Check ↗
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Kala KA-B Baritone UkuleleKA-SDH-BE Baritone Ukulele · Kala76Stable$471€419$471€419Check ↗
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Kala KA-BE Mahogany Baritone UkuleleKA-BG Gloss Mahogany Baritone · Kala68Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
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Kala Makala CTD-SMH-BG Baritone UkuleleKala Makala66Stable$606€539$606€539Check ↗
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Flight Aviator Galaxy Baritone BL CEFlight · 2 finishes61Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
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Flight Pathfinder Red BaritoneFlight54Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
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Flight Maia Baritone EQ-A RosewoodFlight54Stable$392€349$392€349Check ↗
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Flight Maia 8 Steel String Bari EQ-AFlight54Stable$403€359$403€359Check ↗
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Flight Maia Luxe Baritone EQ-AFlight52↓ 1.7%$594€529$594€529Check ↗
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Flight Pathfinder Baritone Ocean BlueFlight51Stable$347€309$347€309Check ↗
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Kala Solid Spruce Travel BaritoneKala51Stable$358€319$358€319Check ↗
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Flight Aviator Baritone Mango CEFlight51Stable$370€329$370€329Check ↗
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Kala KA-CM-BE Curly Mango Barit UkeKala51Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
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Flight Lily Baritone EQ-A SteelStringFlight51Stable$403€359$403€359Check ↗
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Flight Aviator QM Baritone CEFlight51Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
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Flight Navigator Baritone EQ-A SBFlight51Stable$611€544$611€544Check ↗
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Flight Fireball EQ-A Baritone UkuleleFlight51Stable$692€616$692€616Check ↗
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Flight Nighthawk Baritone EQ-A BKFlight49↓ 8.0%$412€367$412€367Check ↗
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Kala Teak Tri-Top Baritone UkuleleKala48Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
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Kala KA-TEAK-BE Baritone UkuleleKala48Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
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Flight Nomad BaritoneFlight48Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
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Flight Aurora Baritone EQ-AFlight48Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
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Flight 4SB Sammy Turton BaritoneFlight48Stable$594€529$594€529Check ↗
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Kala Baritone Ukulele with CutawayKala48Stable$650€579$650€579Check ↗
- 40
Kala Makala KA-SSEBY-B Baritone UkuleleKala Makala46Stable$437€389$437€389Check ↗
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Kamaka Baritone HF-4Kamaka46Stable$2,358€2,099$2,358€2,099Check ↗
- 42
Kala Makala KA-AM-B-CE Baritone UkuleleKala Makala43Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
Baritone Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 45 models we track, not a sample.
Median $370 — half of all baritone ukuleles here cost less.
median of 32 models · 485 mm (19.09")–514 mm (20.24")
median of 35 models · 18–19
median of 22 models · 38 mm (1.5")–38 mm (1.5")
most common · 26 models
How to choose the best baritone ukuleles
Playability
A comfortable neck profile and manageable action are crucial. A thick, unwieldy neck will kill your motivation fast, especially when you're starting out. Look for a 'C' or 'D' profile - they're generally easier to wrap your hand around.
Tuning Stability
Baritone ukes, especially cheaper ones, can be notorious for going out of tune. Gearing with decent quality tuners and a stable nut is a must. Constant tuning adjustments are a major buzzkill.
Tonewoods
While exotic woods sound great, for a beginner, a mahogany top and back is a solid, reliable choice. It'll give you a warm, balanced tone - not too bright, not too muddy. Avoid anything overly bright; it'll be fatiguing to play and record.
Scale Length
The longer scale of a baritone (around 19-23 inches) means more string tension. This can be a plus for playability and sustain, but also means cheaper models might feel a bit stiff. It's a trade-off.
Intonation
Intonation is how accurately the uke plays in tune as you move up the neck. Poor intonation will make chords sound sour, and it's hard to correct. Check it by playing a chromatic scale - if it's wildly out, move on.
Buying guide
So you're thinking about a baritone uke? Smart move - they're surprisingly versatile and bring a real depth to the ukulele family. But jumping into a bari as a beginner can be tricky; the longer scale and tuning (usually DGBE, like a guitar) change the whole ballgame. This guide cuts through the noise and gets you pointed at baritone ukes that'll be fun and forgiving to learn on, not a frustrating roadblock.
Don't chase the fancy woods right away. A well-built all-mahogany baritone uke from a reputable brand will be far more enjoyable than a cheap rosewood one with poor construction. Pay attention to the action - if it's too high, it'll be a struggle to fret notes cleanly.
And seriously, factor in the cost of a decent set of strings; they make a huge difference.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 45 baritone ukuleles from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a soprano and a baritone uke?
Sopranos are the 'classic' ukulele sound, smaller and tuned GCEA. Baritones are bigger, tuned DGBE like a guitar, and have a much deeper, richer tone. Think of a bari as a mini-guitar, while a soprano is more of a novelty instrument.
Can I tune a baritone uke differently?
Absolutely! Some players tune it to GCEA like a soprano, but you'll lose a lot of the baritone's unique low-end character. Stick with DGBE to get the most out of it.
Are baritone ukes harder to learn than soprano ukes?
They're different, not necessarily harder. The larger size and tuning can feel unfamiliar at first, but the guitar-like tuning makes transitioning from guitar easier.
What kind of music is a baritone uke good for?
Everything! It's great for accompanying vocals, playing fingerstyle arrangements, adding texture to bands, and even recording - that low-end thump cuts through a mix surprisingly well.
I'm on a tight budget. What should I look for?
Focus on playability and tuning stability above all else. A solid, playable instrument you can keep in tune is worth more than a pretty one that's a pain to use.
