AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Concert Ukuleles Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Kala KA-SURF Surf Series Concert Ukulele ($44). Martin Guitar C1K LH Concert Ukulele leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 129 models across 17 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 11, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Kala KA-SURF Surf Series Concert Ukulele
KA-MRT-RED-C Concert Ukulele · Kala
99 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale381 mm (15")
- Frets18 frets
If you want a concert ukulele with a longer fretboard and 18 frets, this one is worth a look. It is made of Meranti for the top, back, sides and neck, and has an Indonesian Nandu fretboard. It suits you if you like a classic ukulele shape and a red satin finish.
Pros
- Meranti top, back, sides and neck give the build a consistent wood throughout
- Indonesian Nandu fretboard paired with 18 frets gives you a wide playing range
- Graph Tech Tusq nut and saddle are made of a named synthetic material for a defined string path
78AudioFu
Index↓ 50.6%since Oct 23 · lowest so far$89 · Oct 23$44 now$44€39 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala KA-SURF Surf Series Concert Ukulele
Surf Surf's Up Ukulele · Kala
99 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale376 mm (14.8")
- Frets18 frets
This is a concert-size ukulele with a spruce top and mahogany body, plus a rosewood fretboard and 18 frets. It comes with a carrying bag and a semi-gloss finish, so it suits you if you want a sturdy uke to take to the beach, a jam, or a practice room. Register it on the Warwick site to extend the guarantee to 4 years.
Pros
- Spruce top paired with mahogany sides, back, and neck
- Rosewood fretboard with 18 frets for a wide playing range
- GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle for clean string contact
Cons
- Aquila Super Nylgut nylon strings give a different feel than steel strings
78AudioFu
Index↓ 62.0%since Oct 23 · lowest so far$145 · Oct 23$55 now$55€49 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala KA-SURF Surf Series Concert Ukulele
KA-TK-C-CE Concert Ukulele · Kala
99 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale406 mm (15.98")
- Frets18 frets
If you want a concert-sized ukulele with a pickup built in, this one is worth a look. It has active electronics, a florentine cutaway for reaching the higher frets, and 18 frets on a 16-inch scale. It suits you if you want a natural-finished instrument you can plug in and play at home or on stage.
Pros
- Teak top with mahogany stripes and a teak back and sides
- Florentine cutaway gives easier access to the upper frets
- Active electronics with a pickup built in
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala KA-CG Mahogany Concert Ukulele
Satin Mahogany Concert Ukulele · Kala
25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale377 mm (14.84")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
You get a concert ukulele with mahogany on the top, back, sides and neck, plus a rosewood fingerboard. It includes a gig bag, so you can carry it right away. This one suits you if you want an all-mahogany uke with a natural-looking, silk-matte finish and a fun laser-engraved design.
Pros
- All-mahogany build: top, back, sides and neck are all mahogany
- Rosewood fingerboard paired with a GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle
- Laser-engraved Hawaiian Islands and tattoo design sets it apart
69AudioFu
Index↓ 54.3%since Oct 23 · lowest so far$145 · Oct 23$66 now$66€59 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Zuma Exotic Concert Ukulele
Zuma Concert Ukulele · Fender
42 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width35 mm (1.38")
- Scale381 mm (15")
- Frets16 frets
- BodyMahogany body
You get a concert ukulele with a mahogany top and body, a nato neck, and a 15 inch scale. It has 16 frets, a Telecaster-style headstock, and an abalone rosette. This one suits you if you want a classic-looking wooden ukulele with a bit more room on the fretboard than a soprano.
Pros
- Mahogany top and body give it a classic wood build
- Nato neck paired with a laminated hardwood fretboard
- Abalone rosette and neck binding add visual detail
68AudioFu
Index↓ 12.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$139 · Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Kala KA-CG Mahogany Concert Ukulele
KA C RW Mahogany Concert · Kala
25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale376 mm (14.8")
- Frets18 frets
The KA C RW Mahogany is a solid entry point into concert ukuleles. The all-mahogany construction provides a warm, mellow tone that's great for fingerpicking and strumming gentle melodies. It's a fantastic choice for beginners or intermediate players looking for a well-built, affordable instrument with a classic sound.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top delivers warm, resonant tones with surprising projection.
- GraphTech NuBone nut and saddle improve sustain and intonation noticeably.
- Rosewood fretboard provides a comfortable playing feel and good note definition.
Cons
- Satin finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can feel a bit plasticky to some.
- Mahogany construction can be slightly heavier than lighter ukulele materials.
66AudioFu
Index↓ 22.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$100 · Aug 17$77 now$77€69 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale376 mm (14.8")
- Frets18 frets
You get a mahogany concert ukulele with a rosewood fretboard, 18 frets and a GraphTech NuBone nut and bridge. It comes with a gig bag and Aquila Super Nylgut strings, so you can start playing right away. This one suits you if you want a simple, classic uke that fits in a bag and is easy to carry to lessons or jam sessions.
Pros
- Mahogany top, back, sides and neck give it a classic all-wood build
- Rosewood fretboard with 18 frets gives you a wide playing range
- GraphTech NuBone nut and bridge help the strings sit well
Cons
- Concert body is smaller than tenor or baritone ukuleles
63AudioFu
Index↓ 10.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$190 · Aug 17$170 now$170€152 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width36 mm (1.42")
- Scale384 mm (15.12")
- Frets19 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This is a concert ukulele with a solid mahogany top and a rosewood fingerboard. It has 19 frets, a bone nut and saddle, and comes with a gig bag. It suits you if you want a sturdy, good-looking ukulele that is ready to take with you.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body gives this ukulele a classic, woody build
- Rosewood fingerboard and rosewood bridge are made from the same tonewood family
- Bone nut and bone saddle are included for good string contact
Cons
- Concert size with a 384 mm scale may feel a little small for larger hands
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width35.7 mm (1.41")
- Scale381 mm (15")
- Frets17 frets
You get a concert ukulele with a koa top, back and sides, and a 381 mm scale length. It has 17 frets, a TUSQ nut, nickel machine heads, and a gig bag to carry it in. It suits you if you play left-handed and want a natural koa finish with a bag included.
Pros
- Solid koa top gives you a single-wood koa build
- Koa back and sides match the top for a uniform look
- TUSQ nut and nickel machine heads for solid everyday hardware
Cons
- Left-handed model, so right-handed players need a different one
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$705 now$705€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width35 mm (1.38")
- Scale384 mm (15.12")
- Frets17 frets
You get a concert ukulele with a laminated spruce top, mahogany laminated back and sides, and a walnut fingerboard. It has 17 frets, a bone nut and saddle, individual machine heads, and comes with a gig bag. It suits you if you want a classic concert-size uke with a practical build and a bag included.
Pros
- Laminated spruce top gives this concert ukulele a classic build
- Mahogany laminated back and sides with an arched back
- Walnut fingerboard and bridge with bone nut and saddle
Cons
- Concert size with a 384 mm scale may feel small for larger hands
All 129 concert ukuleles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Flight DUC 380 Coral Concert UkuleleFlight · 3 finishes57Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton UK-12C BlackHarley Benton · 2 finishes56Stable$27€24$27€24Check ↗
- 13
Baton Rouge UR11-C CactusBaton Rouge · 4 finishes56Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton DC-Ukulele CHHarley Benton56↓ 17.0%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton Kahuna CLU-32CHarley Benton55↓ 14.5%$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 16
Flight DUC 400 Ash BlueFlight · 3 finishes54Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 17
Kala KA-15 C Mahogany ConcertKala53↓ 53.8%$62€55$62€55Check ↗
- 18
Ortega RUPA5MM Pineapple Series Sapele Top Concert Ukulele with…RUPA5MM Concert Pineapple · Ortega53Stable$86€77$86€77Check ↗
- 19
Martin Guitar 0XK Concert UkuleleMartin Guitar52Stable$560€499$560€499Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton UK-11C BrownHarley Benton51Stable$26€23$26€23Check ↗
- 21
Leolani Macassar Ebony Concert UkuleleLeolani51↓ 20.1%$124€111$124€111Check ↗
- 22
Kala KA-MRT-BLU-C Concert UkuleleKala50↓ 56.2%$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 23
Kala KA-MRT-PUR-C Concert UkuleleKala50↓ 60.6%$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 24
Kala Surf Swell UkuleleKala50↓ 58.8%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 25
Kala KA-20CE Concert UkuleleKala50↓ 58.8%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton UK-10S UkuleleHarley Benton · 2 finishes50Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 27
Flight NUC500 ConcertFlight49Stable$99€88$99€88Check ↗
- 28
Ortega RFU11SOrtega · 3 finishes49Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 29
Harley Benton Kahuna-C TurtleHarley Benton48Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 30
Cascha HH2605 Art Serie SketchConcertCascha48Stable$49€44$49€44Check ↗
- 31
Cascha Concert Ukulele Premium Mah LHCascha48Stable$71€63$71€63Check ↗
- 32
Cascha Premium Mahogany ConcertSet BKCascha48Stable$73€65$73€65Check ↗
- 33
Kai KCI-10Kai48↓ 5.9%$89€79$89€79Check ↗
- 34
Kala KA-GUIDANCE-C- Concert UkuleleKala48↓ 7.3%$113€101$113€101Check ↗
- 35
Harley Benton ElectricUke-50C NTHarley Benton48Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 36
Cascha HH 2258E Carbon Concert UkulelCascha48↓ 7.5%$206€184$206€184Check ↗
- 37
Ortega BYWSM-UOrtega48Stable$390€348$390€348Check ↗
- 38
Baton Rouge UR1-C smile-bwsBaton Rouge46Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 39
Ortega RU4 Bonfire UkuleleOrtega · 2 finishes46Stable$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 40
Kala KA-UNITY-C Concert UkuleleKala46↓ 1.9%$113€101$113€101Check ↗
- 41
Flight Concert DUC380 CEQ TopazFlight46Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 42
Cascha Cedar Concert Uku Solid TopCascha46↓ 9.4%$141€126$141€126Check ↗
- 43
Flight Iris Calantas ConcertFlight46Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 44
Flight Songbird TPP Concert EQ-AFlight46Stable$649€579$649€579Check ↗
- 45
Bumblebee Ukuleles BUC23 Concert NaturalBumblebee Ukuleles · 3 finishes45Stable$34€30$34€30Check ↗
- 46
Cascha Dreamcatcher Concert UkuleleCascha45Stable$36€32$36€32Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton Kahuna-C FlowerHarley Benton45Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 48
Harley Benton Kahuna-C DolphinHarley Benton45Stable$37€33$37€33Check ↗
- 49
Flight NUC 310 Concert UkuleleFlight · 2 finishes45Stable$71€63$71€63Check ↗
- 50
Ortega RUCOAL ConcertOrtega45Stable$86€77$86€77Check ↗
Concert Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 160 models we track, not a sample.
Median $100 — half of all concert ukuleles here cost less.
median of 98 models · 35 mm (1.38")–38 mm (1.5")
median of 106 models · 375 mm (14.76")–405 mm (15.94")
median of 143 models · 16–19
median of 7 models · 1.16 kg–1.16 kg
How to choose the best concert ukuleles
Tonewood
Mahogany and Koa are the classics for a reason - mahogany offers a warmer, more fundamental tone, great for rhythm work, while Koa brings a little more sparkle and projection. Expect laminate (plywood) construction in this price range, which isn't inherently bad, but solid wood will always have more character and sustain.
Bracing Pattern
Look for a fan bracing pattern; it generally allows for more vibration and a more responsive tone. 'X' bracing is less common, but can still be decent. Avoid anything that looks like a basic ladder bracing - it'll sound boxy and lifeless.
Neck Profile & Action
A comfortable neck is crucial, especially if you're playing for extended periods. A 'C' or 'D' profile is generally considered comfortable. More importantly, the action (string height) needs to be reasonable - too high, and it's a struggle to play; too low, and you'll get fret buzz. A little buzz is acceptable in this price range, but shouldn't be overwhelming.
Intonation
This is where cheaper instruments often fall down. Intonation refers to how accurately the uke plays in tune as you move up the neck. Poor intonation means you'll be constantly correcting yourself, and it'll sound out of tune when recorded. Test this thoroughly before buying.
Hardware & Finish
Quality tuners are essential for staying in tune on stage. Cheap plastic tuners will slip and frustrate you. The finish doesn't drastically affect the tone, but a well-applied finish indicates attention to detail and often correlates with better overall build quality.
Buying guide
So, you want a concert uke that doesn't require a second mortgage? Good on ya. They're surprisingly versatile instruments - I've used them for everything from adding a little warmth to a folk quartet to laying down percussive rhythms in a rock band. Finding a quality concert uke under $1000 is totally doable, but you gotta know what to look for beyond just a pretty veneer.
At this budget, expect some compromises. Laminate tonewoods are common, and you'll likely be dealing with geared tuners rather than friction pegs. Don't chase the
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 160 concert 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 laminate and solid wood?
Laminate is layers of wood glued together - it's more stable and resistant to humidity changes, but lacks the resonance and complexity of solid wood. Solid wood has more character and projects better, but is more sensitive to environmental conditions.
Are pickups worth it?
It depends. If you're playing in a band or recording, a pickup can be a lifesaver to cut through the mix. The voicing on cheap ukulele pickups can be thin and brittle, though, so research reviews. Piezo pickups are common, but magnetic soundholes can offer a warmer tone.
What about fret buzz? Is it normal?
A little fret buzz is common on budget instruments, especially in the lower frets. Excessive buzz is a sign of poor setup or build quality. A luthier can often address minor buzz with a fret leveling or slight adjustment.
I'm a beginner. Does the wood really matter?
Even as a beginner, you'll appreciate a uke that's easier to play and sounds better. A decent instrument will inspire you to practice more and make the learning process more enjoyable. Don't feel pressured to buy the most expensive one, but avoid the absolute cheapest options.
Can I upgrade the tuners later?
Absolutely! Upgrading the tuners is one of the easiest and most impactful upgrades you can make to improve tuning stability. It's a common upgrade path for budget instruments.





