AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Baritone Ukuleles Under $500 2026
The top pick is Kala MK-B Makala Series Baritone Ukulele ($134). Kala KA-B Baritone Ukulele leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 32 models across 7 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 ↗ -
Kala KA-B Baritone Ukulele
KALA KA-BE Baritone Ukulele · Kala
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale509 mm (20.04")
- Frets18 frets
The KA-BE is a solid entry into the baritone uke world. It's got a really pleasing, mellow tone thanks to the all-mahogany build and the GraphTech hardware helps keep it in tune. This is a great choice for players wanting a full, rich baritone voice with amplified capability, especially those coming from guitar or bass.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle improve sustain and tuning stability.
- UK-300TR electronics offer a usable, amplified sound with reasonable clarity.
Cons
- Mahogany construction, while warm, lacks the brightness of some other tonewoods.
- The satin finish, while attractive, can feel a bit plasticky to some players.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$291 now$291€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale509 mm (20.04")
- Frets18 frets
The KA-ZCT-B is a seriously refined baritone, offering a beautiful, mature tone that punches above its class. Ziricote isn’t a common choice, adding a unique visual flair and tonal complexity. It's ideal for players wanting a rich, full sound for fingerstyle or mellow strumming, and who appreciate a quality instrument without the absolute top-tier price tag.
Pros
- Ziricote top delivers a rich, complex, and surprisingly warm tone.
- Mahogany neck provides excellent sustain and comfortable playability.
- GraphTech NuBone nut and bridge enhance clarity and tuning stability.
Cons
- Ziricote can be a brittle wood; requires careful handling and humidity control.
- High-gloss finish may feel less 'organic' to some players preferring a matte feel.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$358 now$358€319 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale510 mm (20.08")
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Kala Baritone is a serious step up for players wanting a full, rich sound and amplified versatility. The all-mahogany construction gives it a lovely warmth, and the Fishman electronics make it stage-ready. It’s a great choice for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a deeper, more guitar-like ukulele voice.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant, and mature tone.
- Fishman Kula System provides a clear, amplified sound ideal for stage performance.
- Rosewood fingerboard offers a comfortable playing experience with good note definition.
Cons
- The solid mahogany build contributes to a slightly heavier feel compared to lighter ukes.
- The scale length (510mm) might feel a little long for players used to smaller ukes.
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$471 now$471€419 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 ↗ -
Kala KA-BE Mahogany Baritone Ukulele
KA-BG Gloss Mahogany Baritone · Kala
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale509 mm (20.04")
- Frets18 frets
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.
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.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$224 now$224€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale510 mm (20.08")
- Frets19 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This baritone uke packs solid wood tops and sides for a full, punchy tone that cuts through a band. The 19-fret neck gives you plenty of room to stretch out, while the bone hardware keeps the strings singing cleanly. It's a great choice for players who want a rich sound without the weight of a full-sized guitar.
Pros
- Solid poplar top drives a bright, responsive attack
- Solid mango back and sides add warm low-end depth
- 19 frets allow easy playing up the full neck
Cons
- Okoume neck may feel less stable than exotic woods
- Passive pickups lack built-in amplification options
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$426 now$426€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width39 mm (1.54")
- Scale510 mm (20.08")
- Frets18 frets
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
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.
Cons
- 8-string baritone is less versatile than standard ukulele sizes.
- Nato neck, while stable, isn't as premium as some higher-end options.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 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 ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
The Pathfinder Red is a solid entry into the electric baritone uke world. It's surprisingly versatile, thanks to the dual pickup configuration, and the roasted maple neck makes it a joy to play. This is a great option for players wanting that guitar-like tuning (DGBE) and a full, warm tone without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck offers excellent stability and a smooth playing feel.
- Humbucker/single coil combo delivers versatile tonal options, surprisingly punchy.
- Basswood body provides a warm, resonant foundation for the baritone tone.
Cons
- Basswood, while warm, lacks the complexity of more premium tonewoods.
- 38mm nut width might feel wide for players accustomed to smaller uke necks.
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 32 baritone ukuleles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Flight Maia Baritone EQ-A RosewoodFlight54Stable$392€349$392€349Check ↗
- 12
Flight Maia 8 Steel String Bari EQ-AFlight54Stable$403€359$403€359Check ↗
- 13
Ortega RU5CE-BA BaritoneOrtega · 2 finishes53Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 14
Flight NUB310 Baritone UkuleleFlight51Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 15
Flight Pathfinder Baritone Ocean BlueFlight51Stable$347€309$347€309Check ↗
- 16
Kala Solid Spruce Travel BaritoneKala51Stable$358€319$358€319Check ↗
- 17
Flight Aviator Baritone Mango CEFlight51Stable$370€329$370€329Check ↗
- 18
Kala KA-CM-BE Curly Mango Barit UkeKala51Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 19
Flight Lily Baritone EQ-A SteelStringFlight51Stable$403€359$403€359Check ↗
- 20
Flight Aviator QM Baritone CEFlight51Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
- 21
Ortega RUOX-BAOrtega49Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 22
Flight Nighthawk Baritone EQ-A BKFlight49↓ 8.0%$412€367$412€367Check ↗
- 23
Kala KA-TEAK-B Teak Bariton UkuleleKala48Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 24
Flight Iris Baritone Ukulele BKFlight48Stable$197€175$197€175Check ↗
- 25
Kala Teak Tri-Top Baritone UkuleleKala48Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 26
Kala KA-TEAK-BE Baritone UkuleleKala48Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 27
Flight Aurora Baritone EQ-AFlight48Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 28
Flight Nomad BaritoneFlight48Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 29
Kala Makala KA-SSEBY-B Baritone UkuleleKala Makala46Stable$437€389$437€389Check ↗
- 30
Cascha Ukulele Mahogany BaritoneCascha43Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 31
Kala Makala KA-AM-B-CE Baritone UkuleleKala Makala43Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 32
Thomann Baritone EU Ukulele with PUThomann37Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
Baritone Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 35 models we track, not a sample.
Median $291 — half of all baritone ukuleles here cost less.
median of 17 models · 38 mm (1.5")–39 mm (1.54")
median of 26 models · 18–19
median of 25 models · 485 mm (19.09")–513 mm (20.2")
most common · 19 models
How to choose the best baritone ukuleles
Tonewood
Solid wood is king, but in this price range, expect some laminate. Mahogany offers a warm, fundamental thump, while sapele can bring a bit more clarity and articulation. Don't discount well-chosen laminates - a good laminate top with a mahogany back and sides can still be surprisingly responsive.
Neck Profile
This is huge. A comfortable neck profile is essential for longer playing sessions. Thin, D-style necks are easy to play but can sometimes lack sustain, while chunkier necks offer more stability but require more finger strength. Pay attention to reviews on this.
Fretwork
Sloppy fretwork is a deal-breaker. Sharp fret ends will kill your playing and make intonation a nightmare. Even at this price point, decent fretwork shouldn't be a lottery. Check for buzz and unevenness along the neck.
Intonation
Baritone ukes are more sensitive to intonation issues than sopranos. Poor intonation will make chords sound muddy and solos downright frustrating. A well-setup instrument is crucial; be prepared to take it to a tech if needed.
Electronics (if applicable)
Many baritones are being made with pickups these days. Expect budget piezo pickups to be a bit... clinical. They'll work for basic amplification, but don't expect lush, organic tones. The voicing will often be a little scooped in the midrange, requiring EQ to compensate.
Buying guide
So, you're looking to dive into the baritone uke world without breaking the bank? Smart move. These things offer a surprisingly rich, guitar-like tone, especially compared to their smaller cousins, but good ones can still cost a pretty penny. We've hunted down the best baritone ukuleles you can snag for under $500, focusing on instruments that actually sound and feel good, not just look impressive on a website.
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Solid wood tops are common, but expect laminate back and sides to keep costs down. Don't be afraid of a good laminate - it's often the best you can do without blowing the budget.
Focus on playability - a comfortable neck and well-set-up action are worth more than fancy wood. Factor in the cost of a setup; a good tech can work wonders.
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 35 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 baritone uke and a tenor?
Baritones are tuned like the highest four strings of a guitar (DGBE), giving them a much deeper, richer tone. Tenors are tuned like a standard ukulele (GCEA) and have a brighter, more traditional sound.
Are baritone ukes good for recording?
Absolutely! Their fuller tone sits nicely in a mix. Just be mindful of the low-end frequencies - a little EQ can go a long way.
Can I use a guitar amp for a baritone uke?
Sure, but be careful with the gain. Baritone ukes don't handle high-gain distortion as well as guitars. A clean or slightly overdriven amp is your best bet.
What's a 'setup' and do I need one?
A setup involves adjusting the action, intonation, and fretwork to optimize playability. Almost any new uke benefits from a setup - it's like a tune-up for your instrument.
What about composite ukuleles? Are they any good?
Composite materials (like carbon fiber) are becoming more common. They're durable and consistent, but often lack the warmth and resonance of wood. They're a good option if you need something that can withstand travel and rough handling, but they're rarely the first choice for tone.
