Best Baritone Ukuleles Under $300 2026
So, you're looking at a baritone uke, huh? Smart move - that lower register opens up a whole new world of chord voicings and sonic possibilities. Finding a good one under $300 can be tricky, though. We've spent a lot of time wrestling with these little instruments, so let's cut through the noise and find you something that'll actually sound good and hold up to a few gigs, without emptying your wallet.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best baritone ukuleles in 2026 are Baton Rouge V2-B8 sun (top pick), Ortega RUOX-BA for tighter budgets, and Kala KA-15 B Baritone Ukulele for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $126–$242, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Baton Rouge V2-B8 sun
by
Baton Rouge
Nut width
39 mm (1.54")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
18 frets
Strings
8-string
Body
Mahogany body
Guitar-Like Tuning
Folk
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
This Baton Rouge V2-B8 sun is a fantastic entry into the baritone ukulele world. The 8-string setup gives it a richer, fuller sound, almost like a mini-guitar, and the mahogany construction is really lovely. It’s a great option for singers who want a comfortable, full-voiced accompaniment or anyone exploring the baritone range.
PROS
- • Mahogany body delivers warm, resonant tones ideal for mellow arrangements.
- • Nato neck provides comfortable playability and stable intonation.
- • Nubone nut and saddle enhance sustain and tonal clarity noticeably.
- • Open-pore matte finish allows the mahogany to breathe, improving resonance.
CONS
- • 8-string baritone is less versatile than standard ukulele sizes.
- • Nato neck, while stable, isn't as premium as some higher-end options.
- • Open guitar tuners might feel less precise for experienced ukulele players.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 548646
$208
Ortega RUOX-BA
by
Ortega
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
430 mm (16.93")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard
Walnut fingerboard
Unique Sound
Deep Ukulele Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
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
- • 19 frets allow playing higher notes easily
CONS
- • No electronics means no built-in pickup
- • Mahogany neck may feel heavy in hand
- • Black finish hides potential finish cracks
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 633535
$185
Kala KA-15 B Baritone Ukulele
by
Kala
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
19 frets
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Folk
Deep Ukulele Tones
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Natural matte finish looks clean and professional.
CONS
- • No electronics listed for amplification options.
- • Total length is quite long for standard players.
- • Missing specific back and side wood details.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629234
$173
Ortega RUNAB-BA
by
Ortega
Nut width
35 mm (1.38")
Scale
380 mm (14.96")
Frets
19 frets
Folk
Unique Sound
Deep Ukulele Tones
Key Feature:
This is a sturdy baritone ukulele built from solid bamboo with a long 380 mm scale. The 19 frets and built-in pickup make it great for playing chords in small venues. It comes with a gig bag, but the natural finish needs care to avoid scratches.
PROS
- • Solid bamboo construction throughout the body and neck
- • 19 frets offer extended playing range compared to standard ukuleles
- • Graph Tech Ratio friction heads ensure tight tuning stability
- • Built-in pickup makes it playable in any acoustic setting
CONS
- • 380 mm scale is very long and may feel unwieldy
- • Natural finish shows wear and dirt easily over time
- • No weight or string gauge specs provided for comfort checks
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 633537
$243
Cascha Ukulele Mahogany Baritone
by
Cascha
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
19 frets
Blues
Folk
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
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.
- • Includes a gig bag and picks – a nice value-added bonus.
CONS
- • Mahogany can be a bit 'woody' – lacks the sparkle of koa.
- • Factory Aquila strings are decent, but an upgrade is recommended.
- • The natural finish might show fingerprints and scuffs easily.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 544702
$138
Ortega RU5CE-BA Baritone
by
Ortega
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
485 mm (19.09")
Body
Sapele body
Blues
Folk
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
The RU5CE-BA is a solid entry into the baritone ukulele world. It offers a surprisingly full and warm tone thanks to the spruce top and sapele body, and the built-in tuner is a handy touch. This is a great option for players looking to explore baritone ukulele without a premium-priced investment – especially those who enjoy a slightly wider neck feel.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers clear, articulate projection with warmth
- • Sapele body provides a balanced, resonant tone with sustain
- • Walnut fingerboard and bridge offer a smooth playing experience
- • Ortega MagusUke electronics are surprisingly effective for basic amplification
CONS
- • Sapele body can feel a little plain aesthetically for some players
- • Cutaway access to higher frets is somewhat restricted
- • Nut width might feel a bit wide for smaller hands
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 370412
$162
Kala Makala MK-B Baritone Ukulele
by
Kala
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
18 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Folk
Deep Ukulele Tones
Blues
Key Feature:
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
- • Includes a gig bag, making it immediately playable and transportable
CONS
- • Plastic nut and bridge feel budget-oriented and may impact sustain
- • Mahogany construction can be prone to movement with humidity changes
- • Baritone size makes it less versatile for smaller players or travel
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 573010
$150
Flight NUB310 Baritone Ukulele
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Frets
19 frets
Body
Sapele body
Solo Performance
Folk
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
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
- • Open-gear tuners offer a vintage aesthetic and surprisingly accurate tuning
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
- • Limited fretboard inlays can be challenging for players relying heavily on visual markers
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 498795
$127
Kala KA-BG Gloss Mahogany Baritone
by
Kala
Scale
509 mm (20.04")
Frets
18 frets
Blues
Deep Ukulele Tones
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
The Kala KA-BG is a beautifully crafted baritone ukulele that’s surprisingly full-bodied. Its warm tone and comfortable neck make it ideal for fingerstyle players and those wanting a mellow, guitar-like voice. It's a solid choice for someone wanting a premium baritone feel without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising depth.
- • Rosewood fretboard offers a comfortable playing experience and nice contrast to the mahogany.
- • The GraphTech NuBone bridge improves sustain and tuning stability compared to standard plastic.
- • Includes a gig bag, making it immediately playable and transportable.
CONS
- • Mahogany’s tonal character can be a bit 'dark' for players wanting a brighter ukulele sound.
- • The gloss finish, while beautiful, can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
- • While versatile, the baritone scale limits its suitability for very complex or fast playing styles.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 532321
$231
Kala KA-TEAK-BE Baritone Ukulele
by
Kala
Scale
513 mm (20.2")
Frets
18 frets
Blues
Solo Performance
Deep Ukulele Tones
Key Feature:
This teak baritone uke offers a warm tone with an active pickup for easy recording. The Graph Tech hardware adds clarity, while 18 frets help with complex chords. It suits players who want a deeper sound than a standard uke but need a solid, reliable instrument.
PROS
- • Solid teak body provides warm, rich tone for baritone range
- • Active pickup system ensures clear signal for recording and live play
- • Graph Tech NuBone hardware adds brightness and sustain to the sound
- • 18 frets offer extended reach for complex chord progressions
CONS
- • No back and sides wood listed, likely solid top only
- • Heavy scale length of 20.19 inches may be hard for small hands
- • No specific bridge material or string gauge details provided
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 628969
$231
Kala Teak Tri-Top Baritone Ukulele
by
Kala
Scale
513 mm (20.2")
Frets
18 frets
Blues
Folk
Guitar-Like Tuning
Key Feature:
This is a great choice if you want a big, deep sound without losing your ukulele's charm. The teak body looks classy with those wood stripes, and the active pickup makes it ready for gigs. It suits players who love the lower range but still want that warm, nylon tone.
PROS
- • Solid teak body with visible mahogany stripes for great looks
- • Active pickup system lets you play in any room easily
- • Deep baritone range sounds powerful and mature
- • GraphTech TUSQ nut protects strings and stays in tune
CONS
- • Open-pore finish shows dirt and scratches quickly
- • No weight spec means it could feel heavy when full
- • Natural color requires more oil maintenance than dark woods
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 629201
$220
Kala KA-B Satin Mahogany Baritone
by
Kala
Scale
509 mm (20.04")
Frets
18 frets
Folk
Solo Performance
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
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
- • Cream binding adds a touch of elegance without sacrificing the natural aesthetic
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
- • Satin finish, while attractive, can show fingerprints and grime more easily
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 524799
$208
Flight Iris Baritone Ukulele BK
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Frets
19 frets
Deep Ukulele Tones
Solo Performance
Folk
Key Feature:
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.
- • Fluorocarbon strings offer a warm, mellow tone and improved projection.
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.
- • Limited electronics make it unsuitable for amplified performance without modification.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 574123
$203
Kala KA-TEAK-B Teak Bariton Ukulele
by
Kala
Scale
513 mm (20.2")
Frets
18 frets
Folk
Solo Performance
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
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.
- • Aquila Super Nylgut strings offer a comfortable, responsive feel.
CONS
- • Teak wood is heavy, making this ukulele feel quite substantial.
- • Matte finish may show fingerprints and wear over time.
- • No electronics listed means no onboard pickup for amplification.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 629161
$162
Kala Makala KA-AM-B-CE Baritone Ukulele
by
Kala Makala
Scale
512.8 mm (20.19")
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Deep Ukulele Tones
Unique Sound
Folk
Key Feature:
This baritone uke plays low like a guitar but feels lighter than a full-sized bass. The Amara wood sounds warm, and the active pickups make it easy to cut through a band mix. It suits players who want deep, resonant bass tones without the heavy price tag of a real bass.
PROS
- • Mahogany-striped Amara top adds visual flair and resonance
- • Active EQ pickups let you shape tone on stage
- • Open-gear machine heads stay locked under heavy string tension
- • Wound D and G strings give true baritone low-end power
CONS
- • No weight spec means you cannot verify comfort for large players
- • Truss rod is internal, so you cannot adjust neck relief yourself
- • Satin finish feels less durable than a glossy coat for touring
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
5/10
Art. 648825
$220
Every baritone ukuleles that matches
18 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Baton Rouge V2-B sun | Frets 18 frets | $115 |
| 17 | Ortega RU5-BA Baritone Ukulele | Frets 18 frets | $109 |
| 18 | Thomann Baritone EU Ukulele with PU | Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $208 |
Baritone Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 18 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $185
from $109 to $231
Frets
median 18
from 18 to 19 · 15 models
Nut width
median 38 mm (1.5")
from 35 mm (1.38") to 38 mm (1.5") · 7 models
Scale
median 510 mm (20.08")
from 380 mm (14.96") to 513 mm (20.2") · 13 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, walnut, maple
most common · 5 models
How to Choose the Best Baritone Ukuleles
1
Solid Top Wood
Laminate tops are common at this price, but a solid top (like spruce or mahogany) will vibrate more freely, giving you more sustain and a richer, more complex tone - a noticeable difference when recording or playing with a band.
2
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is critical. Look for something that feels good in your hand, and make sure the action isn't too high, which will make it hard to play cleanly. High action = buzzing and a fight to get a clean sound.
3
Intonation
This is where a lot of budget instruments fall down. Poor intonation means chords won't ring true as you move up the neck. It's crucial for playing gigs or recording anything beyond a simple strum.
4
Bracing Pattern
The internal bracing significantly impacts the instrument's tone and projection. Expect simpler bracing patterns on cheaper models, which can result in a less resonant sound, but it's something to listen for.
5
Hardware Quality (Tuning Machines)
Cheap tuning machines are a nightmare. They'll slip, making it impossible to stay in tune on stage. Decent tuners aren't expensive, but often get skipped to save a few bucks - a major frustration.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect premium tonewoods or flawless craftsmanship. Focus on a solid top if possible, and absolutely check the intonation before you buy. A slightly higher action can be adjusted, but a neck with a severe warp is a deal-breaker. Pay attention to the overall build quality - loose braces, sloppy fretwork, and cheap hardware are red flags.
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 18 baritone ukuleles 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
Laminate tops are made of layers of wood glued together - they're more stable and cheaper. Solid tops are a single piece of wood, offering better tone and projection, but are more susceptible to humidity changes.
Many have built-in pickups, but the voicing is often basic - expect a piezo sound. It'll work for practice, but don't expect miracles. You'll probably want an external preamp for gigging.
They're typically tuned D-G-B-E, just like the top four strings of a guitar. This makes it easy to transition between the two instruments.
Absolutely! The deeper range adds a lot of warmth and complexity to chord progressions, opening up new creative avenues. It's great for adding a different texture to your music.
Action refers to the height of the strings above the frets. Low action makes it easier to play, but too low and you get fret buzz. High action makes it harder to fret notes cleanly.
