AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Bass Ukuleles 2026
The top pick is Kala Journeyman U-Bass with F-Holes and Electronics 2018 ($482). Harley Benton UkeBass Mahogany gives you the most for the money at $145. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 27 models across 5 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
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All Bass UkulelesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Kala Journeyman U-Bass with F-Holes and Electronics 2018
U-Bass Journeyman NT · Kala
24 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Scale530 mm (20.87")
- Frets16 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Journeyman NT is a seriously fun instrument. Its mahogany build gives it a warm, woody tone that's surprisingly bassy for its size, and the onboard electronics make it gig-ready. This is perfect for songwriters, studio players, or anyone wanting a unique, portable bass sound.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top delivers warm, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- The UK-500B pickup system provides a clean, usable amplified signal.
- Rosewood fingerboard and Graph Tech nut enhance playability and intonation.
Cons
- Mahogany construction makes it a bit heavier than some other u-basses.
- The roundwound strings offer a modern tone, but some may prefer flats.
85AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$482 now$482€429 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala U-Bass Wanderer Fretted Mahogany Ukulele Bass Satin Natural
U-Bass Wanderer · Kala
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale530 mm (20.87")
- Frets16 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Wanderer is a seriously cool, portable bass option. Its mahogany construction gives it a surprisingly full tone, and the built-in electronics make it gig-ready. It's fantastic for bassists wanting a unique, travel-friendly instrument or ukulele players looking to explore a new low-end territory.
Pros
- Mahogany top delivers a warm, woody tone with surprising sustain.
- Graph Tech TUSQ nut improves tuning stability and enhances clarity.
- Kala UK-500B electronics offer a respectable amplified sound for stage or recording.
Cons
- The satin finish, while attractive, can feel a little plasticky to the touch.
- Limited fretboard space restricts advanced playing techniques and higher-register runs.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 5.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$415 · Aug 17$393 now$393€350 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale514.4 mm (20.25")
- Frets18 frets
- Fingerboard radius406.4 mm (16")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This Fullerton PBass Uke is a surprisingly capable little instrument. It nails that Fender vibe – a little quirky, a little punchy – and the built-in tuner is a huge bonus for less experienced players. If you want a portable bass with a familiar feel and a bit of vintage character, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers bright, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- Okoume back and sides add warmth and sustain, balancing the brightness.
- Die-cast tuners ensure reliable tuning stability, a definite upgrade.
Cons
- Okoume, while nice, isn’t a premium tonewood like mahogany or koa.
- The 'C' neck profile might feel thick for players preferring a slimmer feel.
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$268 now$268€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
- Scale512 mm (20.16")
- BodyMahogany body
This Harley Benton UkeBass is a seriously fun and affordable way to get into bass playing with a unique ukulele vibe. The mahogany gives it a warm, mellow tone, and the built-in tuner is a handy bonus. It's ideal for beginners, ukulele players wanting to explore bass, or anyone wanting a quirky, portable bass option.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant, and surprisingly full bass tone.
- Graph Tech nut improves tuning stability and reduces string friction for smoother playability.
- Die-cast tuners offer precise and reliable tuning adjustments, a significant upgrade.
Cons
- Mahogany can be a bit 'woody' sounding; lacks the clarity of some brighter tonewoods.
- Piezo pickups inherently have a 'quacky' character; EQ helps, but limitations exist.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings4-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
The Kala U-Bass Solid Body CAR is a fantastic gateway into the bass world, especially for ukulele players looking for a unique instrument. It nails that upright bass vibe without the bulk, offering a surprisingly powerful and punchy tone. It's perfect for gigging musicians needing a portable, versatile bass option or songwriters wanting a fresh, distinct low-end.
Pros
- Okoume body delivers a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, familiar feel.
- Kala split coil pickup offers a surprisingly full, bass-like tone.
Cons
- Okoume, while nice, isn't as tonally complex as more premium woods.
- The shorter scale limits low-end extension compared to a full-size bass.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Frets22 frets
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Kala U-Bass 5-String TB is a surprisingly versatile instrument—it’s got a solid feel, a good low end, and the humbucker gives it a real growl. It's a fantastic option for ukulele players wanting to explore bass lines or bassists looking for a lighter, more portable option without sacrificing too much sonic character. It's a great entry point into the world of bass ukuleles.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a warm, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- 5-string configuration expands harmonic possibilities and low-end range.
- Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy feel and easy playability.
Cons
- Okoume body can be slightly heavier than other ukulele bass materials.
- 597 mm scale length might feel cramped for experienced bass players.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$448 now$448€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala U-Bass Striped Ebony Fretless Ukulele Bass Natural
U-Bass Ebony Fretless · Kala
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale517 mm (20.35")
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Kala U-Bass Ebony Fretless is a seriously cool instrument. The fretless feel combined with the ebony's warmth makes it ideal for players wanting a unique, upright bass vibe – think jazz, blues, or even mellow funk. It’s premium-priced, but the build quality and tone are truly exceptional for a bass ukulele.
Pros
- Ebony top delivers a warm, focused tone with surprising sustain.
- Fretless design allows for expressive slides and vibrato.
- Fishman U-Bass EQ provides clear amplification with useful tone shaping.
Cons
- The ebony construction makes it noticeably heavier than other U-basses.
- Fretless playing requires a different technique and a steeper learning curve.
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$673 now$673€599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Strings5-string
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Kala U-Bass is a seriously cool instrument for bassists wanting something different. The fretless design and humbucker pickup give it a really unique voice – think upright bass meets electric bass, but in a much more portable package. It’s a great option for gigging musicians or studio players looking for a novel tonal palette.
Pros
- Okoume body provides a warm, resonant tone with surprising projection.
- Fretless design encourages expressive slides and a unique bass timbre.
- Kala humbucker delivers a thick, punchy sound suitable for various genres.
Cons
- Okoume, while warm, can be a bit less articulate than denser hardwoods.
- 597mm scale feels shorter than a standard bass, requiring adjustment for some players.
54AudioFu
Index↓ 4.8%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$471 · Aug 17$448 now$448€399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
The Kala U-Bass 4-Fret Solid Body is a neat little package. It’s fantastic for ukulele players looking to explore bass lines or for bassists wanting a super portable, unique instrument. The solid body construction gives it a surprisingly full sound, and the short scale makes it easy to handle.
Pros
- Okoume body delivers a surprisingly resonant, warm low-end for a solid body.
- Maple neck and laurel fingerboard offer smooth playability and comfortable feel.
- Kala split coil pickup provides a surprisingly robust and articulate tone.
Cons
- 597mm scale can feel cramped for bassists accustomed to longer scales.
- Okoume, while nice, isn't a premium tonewood, impacting ultimate sustain.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale597 mm (23.5")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyOkoume body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This left-handed Kala U-Bass is a fun, affordable entry point into the world of bass ukulele. The solid body construction gives it a surprisingly robust tone, and the split coil pickup delivers a respectable low-end. It's a great option for ukulele players wanting to explore bass lines or for someone needing a compact, portable bass for practice or smaller gigs.
Pros
- Okoume body offers a warm, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel for quick playing.
- Split coil pickup delivers a focused, punchy low-end with less hum.
Cons
- Okoume can be prone to dents and scratches; finish needs care.
- 597mm scale can feel cramped for bassists accustomed to longer scales.
52AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$336 now$336€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 27 bass ukuleles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Kala U-Bass 4 Surf Green FrettedKala52Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 12
Kala U-Bass Teak FrettedKala50Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 13
Kala U-Bass Solid Body Jet BlackKala50Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 14
Kala U-Bass 4 Fret Paisley OrangeKala50Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 15
Kala U-BASS Hutch Hutchinson Sign.Kala48↑ 4.2%$701€624$701€624Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton Solid UkeBass SunburstHarley Benton47Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton Solid U-Bass Sunburst w/BagHarley Benton47Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton UkeBass Spalted MapleHarley Benton47Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 19
Flight Mini Bass Lite BKFlight47Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 20
Kala U-Bass Nomad 4 NTKala47Stable$313€279$313€279Check ↗
- 21
Kala U-Bass Scout Fretless 4 NTKala47Stable$358€319$358€319Check ↗
- 22
Flight Mini JB Bass SBFlight47Stable$438€390$438€390Check ↗
- 23
Ortega RUNAB-UBOrtega43Stable$331€295$331€295Check ↗
- 24
Ortega Lizzy Pro Bass UkuleleOrtega43Stable$482€429$482€429Check ↗
- 25
Flight DUBS Bass UkuleleFlight40Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton Kahuna CLU-Bass Ukulele BundleHarley Benton · 2 finishes37↓ 5.9%$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton Solid U-Bass Sunburst BundleHarley Benton30Stable$298€265$298€265Check ↗
Bass Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 31 models we track, not a sample.
Median $336 — half of all bass ukuleles here cost less.
median of 14 models · 38.1 mm (1.5")–45 mm (1.77")
median of 22 models · 16–22
most common · 20 models
median of 28 models · 510 mm (20.08")–597 mm (23.5")
How to choose the best bass ukuleles
Scale Length
This is the defining factor. Most bass ukes are around 15-17 inches, which means shorter sustain and a different feel than a standard bass. It's a trade-off; the compact size is the appeal, but be prepared for a less resonant low-end.
Pickup Voicing
Cheap pickups can sound brittle and ice-picky, especially when you roll back the tone. Higher-end models, often with ceramic or custom-wound pickups, will have a warmer, more rounded tone that's actually usable in a band setting - think less 'ice pick' and more 'smooth rumble'.
Body Wood & Construction
Solid wood bodies (like mahogany or koa) will generally give you more sustain and a richer tone than laminate. But budget dictates, and a well-built laminate instrument can still be decent, just don't expect that warm, complex midrange you'd get from solid wood.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is critical. A thick, unwieldy neck will make playing a chore. Action (string height) also matters-too high, and it's a struggle; too low, and you'll get fret buzz. This is something to check out in person if possible.
Tuning Stability
Cheaper instruments often use lower-quality tuners that slip easily. This is a nightmare live or in the studio. Look for geared tuners, and be prepared to upgrade if needed - a little investment here saves headaches later.
Buying guide
So, you're thinking about a bass ukulele? Smart move. They're surprisingly versatile - great for adding a subtle low-end thump to your acoustic folk setup, or even surprisingly capable in a rock band when amplified. But they're not just miniature basses; they have their own quirks and limitations. Let's cut through the noise and figure out what you need to know before dropping your cash.
Bass ukuleles are a niche instrument, so you're often paying a premium for the novelty. Don't expect the same level of craftsmanship or component quality as you'd find on a full-size bass. If you're primarily playing acoustic, wood choice is more important.
If you plan on gigging, prioritize pickups and tuners - a decent preamp can make a world of difference in getting that low-end thump to cut through the mix.
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 31 bass 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
Can a bass ukulele replace a bass guitar?
No, not really. It's a different beast entirely. It's great for adding a unique texture, but it lacks the headroom and low-end authority of a standard bass. Think of it as an alternative, not a replacement.
What's the difference between a bass ukulele and a baritone ukulele?
A baritone ukulele is tuned like the highest four strings of a guitar (DGBE). A bass ukulele is tuned an octave lower (EADG), like a bass guitar, but on a smaller scale.
Are bass ukuleles hard to play?
They're generally easier to hold than a full-size bass, but the shorter scale can take some getting used to. Fingerstyle is common, but you can definitely use a pick if that's your preference.
What kind of amp should I use?
A bass amp is ideal, but a full-range PA speaker will also work. Avoid guitar amps, as they often don't handle low frequencies well and can sound harsh.
Are all bass ukuleles four-string?
Almost all are. You might occasionally find a five-string version, but they're extremely rare and cater to a very specific niche.
