Best Baritone Ukuleles Under $500 2026
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.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
⚡ The best baritone ukuleles in 2026 are Baton Rouge V2-B8 sun (top pick), Flight Aviator Galaxy Baritone BR CE for tighter budgets, and Flight Aviator Galaxy Baritone BL CE for pros — selected from 15 options across 6 brands, priced $138–$452, 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
Flight Aviator Galaxy Baritone BR CE
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Folk
Solo Performance
Deep Ukulele Tones
Key Feature:
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
- • Bone nut and saddle ensure clear, tight string action
CONS
- • Okoume neck may feel less stable than exotic woods
- • Passive pickups lack built-in amplification options
- • Slimline body shape suits only specific playing styles
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 646352
$440
Flight Aviator Galaxy Baritone BL CE
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Deep Ukulele Tones
Unique Sound
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
This baritone uke has a bright poplar top and warm mango body for a great balance. The bone nut helps you stay in tune easily, though the okoume neck feels simpler than solid wood. It works well for players who want a solid sound without the bulk of a full-size guitar.
PROS
- • Solid poplar top delivers bright, punchy attack
- • Solid mango back and sides add warmth
- • Bone nut and saddle ensure smooth intonation
- • Flight Passive pickups provide clear output
CONS
- • Okoume neck feels less premium than solid wood
- • Gig bag included but quality unknown
- • 510mm scale length suits only specific players
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 646354
$440
Flight Maia 8 Steel String Bari EQ-A
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Deep Ukulele Tones
Blues
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
This baritone uke packs a solid mango top and rosewood body for a rich, punchy sound. The cutaway helps you play up the 19 frets without strain. With an active pickup, it cuts through mixes better than passive models. It suits players who want a steel-string tone in a compact baritone range.
PROS
- • Solid mango top gives bright, punchy steel-string tone
- • Rosewood back and sides add warmth and depth
- • Cutaway design lets you reach high frets easily
- • Active C1U pickup boosts output for live playing
CONS
- • 510 mm scale is quite long for some players
- • No passive pickup option for tone shaping
- • Weight not listed, likely heavier than nylon models
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 649455
$417
Flight Maia Baritone EQ-A Rosewood
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
19 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Blues
Unique Sound
Guitar-Like Tuning
Key Feature:
The Flight Maia EQ-A is a surprisingly versatile baritone uke, blending warmth with amplified power. It’s a great choice for players looking for a full, resonant tone and the option to plug in for recording or performance – ideal for singer-songwriters and those exploring lower-register arrangements.
PROS
- • Solid mango top provides a warm, responsive fundamental tone.
- • Rosewood back and sides add depth and sustain, a premium touch.
- • Double C1U active pickups offer a surprisingly articulate amplified sound.
- • Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard delivers a comfortable, familiar playing feel.
CONS
- • Laminated rosewood back/sides limit ultimate tonal complexity compared to all-solid construction.
- • Steel strings, while bright, may require a lighter touch for beginners.
- • Active electronics necessitate battery replacement, a minor maintenance consideration.
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 594476
$406
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
Flight Pathfinder Red Baritone
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Frets
22 frets
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Unique Sound
Guitar-Like Tuning
Blues
Key Feature:
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.
- • Hardtail bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain compared to tremolo systems.
CONS
- • Basswood, while warm, lacks the complexity of more premium tonewoods.
- • 38mm nut width might feel wide for players accustomed to smaller uke necks.
- • Red finish, while striking, may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 602352
$348
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
Kala Makala KA-SSEBY-B Baritone Ukulele
by
Kala Makala
Scale
509.6 mm (20.06")
Frets
18 frets
Fingerboard
Ebony fingerboard
Folk
Guitar-Like Tuning
Deep Ukulele Tones
Key Feature:
This baritone uke has a big, loud voice thanks to its solid spruce top and heavy ebony back. The mahogany neck is sturdy enough for bending notes, and the Graph Tech bridge feels secure. It lacks electronics, so it is best for acoustic playing, and the wound strings might need a break-in period. Great for players who want a deep, resonant sound without extra hardware.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top drives strong, clear volume
- • Heavy ebony back and sides add depth
- • Mahogany neck allows easy string bending
- • Graph Tech NuBone nut and bridge feel solid
CONS
- • No electronics listed for amplified play
- • Wound strings may require extra string breaks
- • No weight data provided for comfort
⭐
4.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 648710
$452
Flight Aviator QM Baritone CE
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Deep Ukulele Tones
Guitar-Like Tuning
Folk
Key Feature:
This baritone uke uses solid maple on top and mango on the back for a balanced sound. The bone hardware adds clarity, but the slim body and Okoume neck keep it light. It fits players who want a portable instrument with built-in pickups.
PROS
- • Solid quilted maple top for bright resonance
- • Solid mango back and sides for warmth
- • Bone nut and bridge saddle for clear sustain
- • Flight passive system offers built-in control
CONS
- • Okoume neck is less stable than hardwood
- • Slimline body may lack low-end volume
- • 19 frets is fewer than standard scales
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 646356
$440
Flight Lily Baritone EQ-A SteelString
by
Flight
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Folk
Blues
Solo Performance
Key Feature:
The Flight Lily Baritone EQ-A is a seriously impressive instrument for the price. The solid cedar top gives it a gorgeous, mellow tone that’s surprisingly powerful, and the active pickup makes it stage-ready. It's ideal for players wanting a full, rich baritone sound with amplified versatility – a great choice for singer-songwriters or anyone exploring a wider range of musical styles.
PROS
- • Solid cedar top delivers warm, responsive tone with excellent projection.
- • Mango back and sides add complexity and sustain beyond standard mahogany.
- • C1U active pickup system provides clean, amplified sound with minimal feedback.
- • Gold-plated machine heads offer smooth tuning stability and a premium feel.
CONS
- • Mango wood can be prone to cracking with extreme humidity fluctuations.
- • Steel strings require more finger strength and may be harder on beginners.
- • The high-gloss finish, while attractive, can feel a bit thick and less resonant.
⭐
4.7/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 619898
$417
Kala KA-CM-BE Curly Mango Barit Uke
by
Kala
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Frets
18 frets
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Deep Ukulele Tones
Solo Performance
Folk
Key Feature:
This Kala baritone is a real gem. The curly mango wood gives it a gorgeous tone – warm, full, and surprisingly articulate. It's a fantastic option for players wanting a larger ukulele with a richer, more guitar-like sound, and the pickup system makes it stage-ready.
PROS
- • Curly mango top delivers warm, resonant, and complex tonal character
- • Mahogany neck provides comfortable playability and excellent sustain
- • Graph Tech Ratio tuners offer precise and stable tuning, a significant upgrade
- • UK-300TR pickup system is surprisingly clean and versatile for amplification
CONS
- • Curly mango can be visually variable; figuring may differ from product photos
- • Baritone size can be unwieldy for smaller players or travel
- • Rosewood fretboard, while standard, isn't the highest-end material at this price point
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
3/10
Art. 587247
$394
Flight Aviator Baritone Mango CE
by
Flight
Nut width
39 mm (1.54")
Scale
510 mm (20.08")
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Folk
Unique Sound
Deep Ukulele Tones
Key Feature:
This baritone uke has a solid mango top that sounds bright and clear. The Flight passive pickup helps you hear every note without batteries. It suits players who want a compact, affordable option with a natural look.
PROS
- • Solid mango top delivers bright, clear tone
- • Flight passive pickup system adds output
- • Slim line body fits smaller hands well
- • Natural finish looks clean and simple
CONS
- • Okoume back and sides may lack resonance
- • No active power source required for pickup
- • No listed weight or dimensions for scale
⭐
4.8/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
4/10
Art. 636568
$382
Every baritone ukuleles that matches
36 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Kala Solid Spruce Travel Baritone | Scale 513 mm (20.2") · Frets 18 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $371 |
| 17 | Flight Pathfinder Baritone Ocean Blue | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 22 frets · Body Basswood body | $359 |
| 18 | Ortega RU5CE-BA Baritone | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 485 mm (19.09") · Body Sapele body | $162 |
| 19 | Kala Makala MK-B Baritone Ukulele | Scale 510 mm (20.08") · Frets 18 frets · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $150 |
| 20 | Flight NUB310 Baritone Ukulele | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 19 frets · Body Sapele body | $127 |
| 21 | Flight Aurora Baritone EQ-A | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 19 frets | $394 |
| 22 | Kala KA-ZCT-B Baritone Ukulele | Scale 509 mm (20.04") · Frets 18 frets | $371 |
| 23 | Kala KALA KA-BE Baritone Ukulele | Scale 509 mm (20.04") · Frets 18 frets | $301 |
| 24 | Kala KA-BG Gloss Mahogany Baritone | Scale 509 mm (20.04") · Frets 18 frets | $231 |
| 25 | Kala KA-TEAK-BE Baritone Ukulele | Scale 513 mm (20.2") · Frets 18 frets | $231 |
| 26 | Kala Teak Tri-Top Baritone Ukulele | Scale 513 mm (20.2") · Frets 18 frets | $220 |
| 27 | Kala KA-B Satin Mahogany Baritone | Scale 509 mm (20.04") · Frets 18 frets | $208 |
| 28 | Flight Iris Baritone Ukulele BK | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Frets 19 frets | $203 |
| 29 | Kala KA-TEAK-B Teak Bariton Ukulele | Scale 513 mm (20.2") · Frets 18 frets | $162 |
| 30 | Kala KA-SDH-BE Baritone Ukulele | Scale 510 mm (20.08") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $487 |
| 31 | Flight Nomad Baritone | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $394 |
| 32 | Kala Makala KA-AM-B-CE Baritone Ukulele | Scale 512.8 mm (20.19") · Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $220 |
| 33 | Baton Rouge V2-B sun | Frets 18 frets | $115 |
| 34 | Ortega RU5-BA Baritone Ukulele | Frets 18 frets | $109 |
| 35 | Flight Nighthawk Baritone EQ-A BK | Fingerboard Rosewood fingerboard | $464 |
| 36 | Thomann Baritone EU Ukulele with PU | Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $208 |
Baritone Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 36 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $243
from $115 to $452
Frets
median 18
from 18 to 19 · 27 models
Nut width
median 38 mm (1.5")
from 35 mm (1.38") to 39 mm (1.54") · 18 models
Body
sapele, mahogany, basswood
most common · 6 models
Scale
median 510 mm (20.08")
from 430 mm (16.93") to 513 mm (20.2") · 26 models
Fingerboard
rosewood, maple, walnut
most common · 19 models
How to Choose the Best Baritone Ukuleles
1
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.
2
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.
3
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.
4
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.
5
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
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 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 36 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
