AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Tenor Ukuleles 2026

Q: What's the difference between a tenor and a soprano ukulele?

Tenors are larger, have a longer scale length (17 inches vs. 13 inches for sopranos), and produce a deeper, richer tone. They're generally more comfortable to play for adults and offer more room for complex chord voicings.

Q: Is a solid wood top really worth the extra money?

Generally, yes. Solid wood tops resonate more freely and produce a more complex, vibrant tone. Laminate tops can sound a bit 'boxy' and lack the same responsiveness. The difference is noticeable, especially when recording.

Q: My tenor ukulele sounds 'muddy'. What's going on?

That's often a result of a dark wood like mahogany, or a bracing pattern that emphasizes the low end. It's not necessarily a bad thing - it can be great for cutting through a mix - but it might not be ideal for all genres. String choice can also affect this; try a brighter set of strings.

Q: Can I easily tune a tenor ukulele down a step?

You can, but it's not always recommended. Tuning down can slacken the strings and potentially affect intonation. The neck might also need adjustment. It's best to check with a luthier if you plan on doing this regularly.

Q: I'm planning to use my tenor ukulele for live gigs. What should I look for?

Durability is key. A well-built instrument that can handle the bumps and jostles of gigging is essential. A good preamp and pickup are a must if you're plugging in. And seriously, get a reliable case - you'll thank yourself later.

The top pick is Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele ($84). Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 116 models across 20 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 17, 2026

116models in this chart

20brands

$235median price

35price drops since Aug

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele
Satin Mahogany Tenor Ukulele · Kala
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale431 mm (16.97")
- Frets18 frets
This is a straightforward tenor uke built from solid mahogany for a warm, full tone. The rosewood fingerboard feels good under your fingers, and the included bag makes it easy to carry. It works great for players who want a classic acoustic sound without any extra electronics.
Pros
- All solid mahogany wood throughout body and neck
- Rosewood fretboard provides warm tone and grip
- GraphTech Nubon nut and saddle for smooth action
Cons
- No pickup system for amplification
- No adjustable bridge or truss rod mentioned
71AudioFu
Index
- Demand80
- Lineup43
- Price100
- Specs33
- Maker100
↓ 46.0%since Aug 20
$156 · Aug 20$84 now

$84€75 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala KA-JTE/2TS Archtop Tenor Ukulele
KA-JTE-BKGN Tenor Ukulele · Kala
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale428 mm (16.85")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This tenor uke sounds warm thanks to its mahogany body. The pickup makes it ready to plug in without needing extra batteries. It feels solid under your fingers with the rosewood fingerboard. Great for players who want a classic sound that works in any setting.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top and sides for rich tone
- Graph Tech NuBone nut and bridge for playability
- UK-300TR electronics capture acoustic dynamics
Cons
- No volume or tone control knobs included
- Lacks built-in tuner functionality
69AudioFu
Index
- Demand70
- Lineup43
- Price100
- Specs50
- Maker100
↓ 55.7%since Aug 20 · lowest so far
$505 · Aug 20$224 now

$224€199 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele
KA-T Tenor Ukulele · Kala
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale428 mm (16.85")
- Frets18 frets
The Kala KA-T is a solid choice for players looking for a well-built, affordable tenor ukulele. Its all-mahogany construction gives it a warm, classic ukulele sound, and the Graph Tech nut and saddle improve tuning stability. It's perfect for beginners or intermediate players wanting a reliable instrument for strumming and fingerpicking.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top delivers a warm, resonant tone with good projection.
- Rosewood fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and pleasing visual contrast.
- Aquila Super Nylgut strings provide a bright, balanced sound and comfortable feel.
Cons
- Mahogany construction can be slightly less nuanced than more exotic woods.
- Satin finish, while attractive, may show fingerprints and wear more easily.
67AudioFu
Index
- Demand82
- Lineup43
- Price71
- Specs33
- Maker100
↓ 7.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$190 · Aug 14$177 now

$177€157 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele
KA-TE Satin Mahogany Tenor EQ · Kala
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale428 mm (16.85")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The KA-TE is a solid choice for serious ukulele players wanting a well-built, amplified tenor. The mahogany provides a lovely, mellow tone, and the pickup is surprisingly decent for the price point. This is a great option for performers or anyone looking to expand their ukulele versatility.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers warm, resonant tones with natural sustain.
- Kala UK-300TR pickup provides a usable, amplified signal for stage or recording.
- Graph Tech NuBone nut and saddle improve sustain and tuning stability.
Cons
- Satin finish, while attractive, can feel a little less refined than gloss finishes.
- Mahogany's inherent brightness might require EQ adjustments for certain playing styles.
66AudioFu
Index
- Demand80
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs50
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$291 now

$291€259 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele
KA-SDH-T Tenor Ukulele · Kala
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale429 mm (16.89")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This Kala SDH-T is a really sweet-sounding tenor – the all-mahogany build gives it a lovely warmth and depth. It's a great step up from entry-level ukuleles, perfect for players wanting a more refined instrument with a traditional aesthetic. It’s an excellent choice for fingerstyle players or those seeking a mellow, inviting tone.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant, and surprisingly complex tone.
- Graph Tech NuBone nut and saddle noticeably improve sustain and intonation.
- The 'Salt & Pepper Doghair' finish is aesthetically pleasing and unique, showcasing the wood grain.
Cons
- The aged cream binding, while visually appealing, can be prone to chipping with rough handling.
- Solid mahogany can be slightly heavier than laminate, potentially tiring for extended playing.
66AudioFu
Index
- Demand82
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs50
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$325 now

$325€289 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele
KA-CT-SA-TG Tenor Ukulele · Kala
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale433 mm (17.05")
- Frets19 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Kala Contour is a serious step up for the intermediate player. The all-acacia build gives it a beautifully warm and balanced voice, and the ebony fingerboard makes it a joy to play. It’s ideal for players wanting a premium tone without the complexity of electronics – perfect for solo performance or ensemble work.
Pros
- Solid acacia top delivers warm, rich tone with excellent projection.
- Ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability and precise intonation.
- Bone nut and saddle enhance sustain and improve overall tone quality.
Cons
- Solid acacia construction makes it a premium-priced ukulele.
- High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and require more maintenance.
66AudioFu
Index
- Demand82
- Lineup43
- Price47
- Specs50
- Maker100
↑ 1.1%since Aug 14
$505 · Aug 14$511 now

$511€454 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Ibanez URGT100 Tenor Ukulele
URGT100-SUY Ukulele · Ibanez
7 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width37 mm (1.46")
- Scale432 mm (17.01")
- Frets24 frets
- FingerboardPurpleheart fingerboard
This tenor uke sounds lively thanks to its spruce top and purpleheart fingerboard. The plastic nut and Okoume body mean it won't sound like a premium wood instrument. It plays well with its built-in pickup, making it perfect for beginners who want a portable, budget-friendly option.
Pros
- Solid spruce top for bright, punchy tone
- Real purpleheart fingerboard adds unique color
- Undersaddle pickup included for easy play
Cons
- Plastic nut feels cheap and slippery
- Okoume back and sides are not dense
65AudioFu
Index
- Demand63
- Lineup86
- Price50
- Specs67
- Maker49
Stableno change since Aug 17
Aug 17$168 now

$168€149 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele
KA-SMH-TG-CE Tenor Ukulele · Kala
14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale428 mm (16.85")
- Frets18 frets
This Kala SMH-TG-CE is a serious step up for the experienced ukulele player. The all-mahogany build gives it a rich, mellow voice that's fantastic for fingerstyle and vocal accompaniment. It's an excellent choice for performers wanting a quality amplified sound without excessive feedback.
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- Fishman Kula electronics offer a clean, amplified sound suitable for stage performance.
- Venetian cutaway allows comfortable access to higher frets for expanded range.
Cons
- Solid mahogany can be prone to movement with significant humidity changes.
- Premium-priced point may be prohibitive for beginner ukulele players.
64AudioFu
Index
- Demand82
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs33
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$652 now

$652€579 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Fender Dhani Harrison Tenor Ukulele
Dhani Harrison Ukulele Tq · Fender
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width35 mm (1.38")
- Scale432 mm (17.01")
- Frets19 frets
This Dhani Harrison signature uke is a solid choice for players wanting a good-sounding, amplified tenor. The Ovangkol construction gives it a richer tone than many entry-level models, and the Fender preamp is a convenient bonus. It's ideal for singer-songwriters or anyone looking for a versatile, easily amplified ukulele with a unique aesthetic.
Pros
- Solid Ovangkol top delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant tone.
- NATO neck offers comfortable playability and good stability.
- Fender UKE preamp provides clean amplified sound, easy to shape.
Cons
- Ovangkol can be a bit dense, resulting in a slightly heavier ukulele.
- The NATO neck, while stable, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or koa.
63AudioFu
Index
- Demand100
- Lineup43
- Price30
- Specs50
- Maker21
↑ 6.6%since Aug 14
$258 · Aug 14$275 now

$275€244 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Kala MK-T Makala Series Tenor Ukulele
Makala Tenor Ukulele UB-T · Kala
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale429 mm (16.89")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
The Makala Tenor UB-T is a solid, well-voiced ukulele offering a good balance of quality and affordability. It's perfect for beginners and intermediate players looking for a warm, full-bodied tone without the premium price tag – a really great all-rounder for strumming and fingerpicking.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top delivers a warm, balanced, and pleasing tone.
- Rosewood fingerboard provides a comfortable playing experience and good note definition.
- Aquila Super Nylgut strings offer excellent projection and a classic ukulele feel.
Cons
- Plastic nut and bridge feel a bit basic for the price point; a potential upgrade path.
- Silk-matte finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and minor scuffs.
62AudioFu
Index
- Demand70
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs50
- Maker100
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$134 now

$134€119 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 116 tenor ukuleles

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Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Kala Makala KA-NS-RED-MNG-TE Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 62Stable
62
Stable$1,237€1,099
$1,237€1,099Check ↗
12
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor UkuleleKA-SMH-TG Tenor Ukulele · Kala

Index 61↑ 6.1%
61
↑ 6.1%$393€349
$393€349Check ↗
13
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor UkuleleCT-SMH-TG Tenor Ukulele · Kala

Index 61↑ 12.2%
61
↑ 12.2%$415€369
$415€369Check ↗
14
Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor UkuleleCT-SSRW-TG-C Tenor Ukulele · Kala

Index 61↑ 11.1%
61
↑ 11.1%$562€499
$562€499Check ↗
15
Kala Makala KA-CLM-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 59Stable
59
Stable$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
16
Ortega RU5MM-TE UkuleleOrtega · 3 finishes

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$89€79
$89€79Check ↗
17
Kala Makala CTD-SMH-TG Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
18
Kala Makala KA-NS-BLK-MNG-TE Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 57Stable
57
Stable$1,237€1,099
$1,237€1,099Check ↗
19
Baton Rouge V2-TACE SunBaton Rouge · 3 finishes

Index 56Stable
56
Stable$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
20
Ortega RUGH-SRTOrtega

Index 55↓ 28.8%
55
↓ 28.8%$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
21
Ortega RUGH-BKTOrtega

Index 55↓ 28.8%
55
↓ 28.8%$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
22
Flight Pathfinder Tenor TBLFlight · 2 finishes

Index 54↓ 3.1%
54
↓ 3.1%$278€247
$278€247Check ↗
23
Kala Makala KA-CTD-SA-TG Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$730€649
$730€649Check ↗
24
Ortega RUGA-GAP UkuleleOrtega

Index 53↓ 24.2%
53
↓ 24.2%$84€75
$84€75Check ↗
25
Ortega RUGA-PLT UkuleleOrtega

Index 53↓ 24.2%
53
↓ 24.2%$84€75
$84€75Check ↗
26
Ortega RUGA-SKY UkuleleOrtega

Index 53↓ 24.2%
53
↓ 24.2%$84€75
$84€75Check ↗
27
Ortega RU4MM-TE-8Ortega

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$134€119
$134€119Check ↗
28
Ortega RU4MM-CE-TE-8Ortega

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
29
Kala KA-SB-EBY-T Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 53↓ 15.9%
53
↓ 15.9%$370€329
$370€329Check ↗
30
Martin Guitar T1 FSC Tenor UkuleleMartin Guitar · 4 finishes

Index 53Stable
53
Stable$652€579
$652€579Check ↗
31
Ortega NEO-U-TSBOrtega

Index 52↓ 13.8%
52
↓ 13.8%$232€206
$232€206Check ↗
32
Flight Iris Tinta Tenor NAFlight · 2 finishes

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$206€183
$206€183Check ↗
33
Flight Vanguard Tenor E-Ukulele TBKFlight · 2 finishes

Index 51Stable
51
Stable$370€329
$370€329Check ↗
34
Flight NUT500 TenorFlight

Index 50↓ 5.1%
50
↓ 5.1%$106€94
$106€94Check ↗
35
Kala Makala MK8 Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 50↓ 4.8%
50
↓ 4.8%$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
36
Flight Diana TE Tenor UkuleleFlight

Index 50↓ 15.1%
50
↓ 15.1%$253€225
$253€225Check ↗
37
Kala KA-UNITY-T Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 49↓ 7.2%
49
↓ 7.2%$145€129
$145€129Check ↗
38
Flight Comet Tenor Ukulele GRFlight · 2 finishes

Index 49↓ 1.6%
49
↓ 1.6%$708€629
$708€629Check ↗
39
Ortega RUGH-OCTOrtega

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
40
Ortega RUGH-PLTOrtega

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
41
Ortega RUOX-TEOrtega

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$145€129
$145€129Check ↗
42
Flight Iris Calantas TenorFlight

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
43
Ortega RUHZ30TH-JF Tenor UkuleleOrtega

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$358€318
$358€318Check ↗
44
Kala KA SB ACA T Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 48↓ 5.7%
48
↓ 5.7%$370€329
$370€329Check ↗
45
Flight Aviator QM Tenor CEFlight

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$377€335
$377€335Check ↗
46
Ortega RTPS-U-SBK-LOrtega

Index 47↓ 13.8%
47
↓ 13.8%$232€206
$232€206Check ↗
47
Ortega RTPS-U-SBKOrtega

Index 47↓ 13.8%
47
↓ 13.8%$232€206
$232€206Check ↗
48
Ortega NEO-U-TGBOrtega

Index 47↓ 3.7%
47
↓ 3.7%$235€209
$235€209Check ↗
49
Ortega RTPX-U-ACAOrtega

Index 47↓ 15.4%
47
↓ 15.4%$246€219
$246€219Check ↗
50
Ortega RUACA-TEOrtega

Index 47↓ 4.0%
47
↓ 4.0%$269€239
$269€239Check ↗
51
Flight Nighthawk Tenor EQ-AFlight

Index 47↓ 8.7%
47
↓ 8.7%$379€337
$379€337Check ↗
52
Kala KA-SCAC-T8 Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 47↓ 2.0%
47
↓ 2.0%$539€479
$539€479Check ↗
53
Kala KA-EBY-TE Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 46↓ 6.9%
46
↓ 6.9%$303€269
$303€269Check ↗
54
Kala KA-RES-BRS Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
55
Flight Navigator Tenor EQ-A SBFlight

Index 46↓ 0.8%
46
↓ 0.8%$546€485
$546€485Check ↗
56
Kala Ziricote Super Tenor UkeleleKala

Index 46↓ 1.7%
46
↓ 1.7%$652€579
$652€579Check ↗
57
Leolani Concert Hawaiian Koa UkuleleLeolani

Index 45↓ 10.1%
45
↓ 10.1%$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
58
Ortega RUNAB-TEOrtega

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$223€198
$223€198Check ↗
59
Höfner Ukulele Violin SizeHöfner

Index 45↓ 26.0%
45
↓ 26.0%$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
60
Ortega RTPX-U-FMAOrtega

Index 45↓ 10.8%
45
↓ 10.8%$250€222
$250€222Check ↗
61
Flight Aviator Mango Tenor CEFlight

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$336€299
$336€299Check ↗
62
Ortega ECLIPSE-TE8Ortega

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$426€379
$426€379Check ↗
63
Kala Revelator Night Owl Mango Ten.Kala

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
64
Kala Revelator Night Owl Acacia Te.Kala

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$505€449
$505€449Check ↗
65
Flight Songbird Mango EQ-A TenorFlight

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$652€579
$652€579Check ↗
66
Flight Songbird TPP Tenor EQ-AFlight

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$674€599
$674€599Check ↗
67
Cascha Tenor Ukulele Premium Mah LHCascha

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$89€79
$89€79Check ↗
68
Martin Guitar O'ahu TKE Uke BurstMartin Guitar

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$1,293€1,149
$1,293€1,149Check ↗
69
Martin Guitar 1T IZ Tenor UkuleleMartin Guitar

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$2,531€2,249
$2,531€2,249Check ↗
70
Kala Makala KA-AM-T-CE Amara T-UkuleleKala Makala

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
71
Kala KA-TK-T-CE Teak Tri-Top TenorKala

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
72
Flight Iris Tenor Ukulele BKFlight

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$174€155
$174€155Check ↗
73
Leolani Macassar Ebony Tenor UkuleleLeolani

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
74
Leolani Tenor Mango Ukulele SH 5Leolani

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$224€199
$224€199Check ↗
75
Ibanez AUT10-OPNIbanez

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$231€205
$231€205Check ↗
76
Ortega RTPS-U-NATOrtega

Index 43↓ 4.6%
43
↓ 4.6%$235€209
$235€209Check ↗
77
Leolani Tenor Mango Ukulele SHLeolani

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$269€239
$269€239Check ↗
78
Flight Victoria CEQ-A TenorFlight

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
79
Flight Diana Soundwave Tenor UkuleleFlight

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$393€349
$393€349Check ↗
80
Flight Mustang EQ-A Tenor UkuleleFlight

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$595€529
$595€529Check ↗
81
Kala Makala KA-3CD-ACA-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$787€699
$787€699Check ↗
82
Kala Makala KA-NS-BLU-MNG-TE Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,237€1,099
$1,237€1,099Check ↗
83
Kala Makala KA-NS-AMB-MNG-TE Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$1,237€1,099
$1,237€1,099Check ↗
84
Cascha E-Tenor Ukulele Premium MahCascha

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
85
Baton Rouge UTAS-T AshBaton Rouge

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$134€119
$134€119Check ↗
86
Baton Rouge UTM-T Flamed MapleBaton Rouge

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$134€119
$134€119Check ↗
87
Baton Rouge UTC-T CherryBaton Rouge

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$145€129
$145€129Check ↗
88
Baton Rouge UTAP-T Apple Tenor UkuleleBaton Rouge

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$246€219
$246€219Check ↗
89
Flight 4SB Sammy Turton Tenor UkuleleFlight

Index 42↑ 2.7%
42
↑ 2.7%$607€539
$607€539Check ↗
90
Martin Guitar 0X Tenor Uke Black LHMartin Guitar

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$652€579
$652€579Check ↗
91
Harley Benton Hawaii Cedar Tenor UkuleleHarley Benton

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
92
Kala Makala KA-LEGACY-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$168€149
$168€149Check ↗
93
Flight Victoria Tenor SoundwaveFlight

Index 41↑ 3.9%
41
↑ 3.9%$449€399
$449€399Check ↗
94
Kala Makala KA-POI-ACA-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$787€699
$787€699Check ↗
95
Flight Fireball Tenor EQ-AFlight

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$629€559
$629€559Check ↗
96
Kamaka Tenor HF-3Kamaka

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$2,137€1,899
$2,137€1,899Check ↗
97
Cascha Cedar Tenor UkuleleCascha

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$156€139
$156€139Check ↗
98
Harley Benton Hawaii Koa Tenor UkuleleHarley Benton

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$156€139
$156€139Check ↗
99
Harley Benton Hawaii Koa Tenor Ukulel w/BagHarley Benton

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
100
Cascha Cedar Tenor Uku Solid Top EQCascha

Index 39Stable
39
Stable$179€159
$179€159Check ↗
101
Risa Tenor Ukulele SC-Style TSBRisa

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$595€529
$595€529Check ↗
102
Kala ASFM-T-CE Tenor UkuleleKala

Index 38↑ 21.3%
38
↑ 21.3%$640€569
$640€569Check ↗
103
Luna Guitars Uke Vineyard Koa Bevel T PULuna Guitars

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$674€599
$674€599Check ↗
104
Ziegenspeck E-Uke TenorZiegenspeck

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$1,574€1,399
$1,574€1,399Check ↗
105
Kai KTI-700 Tenor UkuleleKai

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$213€189
$213€189Check ↗
106
Kai KTI-5000Kai

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$314€279
$314€279Check ↗
107
Kai KTI-30 Tenor UkuleleKai

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$134€119
$134€119Check ↗
108
Epiphone Ukulele Hummingbird Outfit FCSEpiphone

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
109
Romero Creations Grand Tenor Spalted MangoRomero Creations

Index 33Stable
33
Stable$1,293€1,149
$1,293€1,149Check ↗
110
Thomann Tenor Ukulele with PUThomann

Index 32↑ 6.3%
32
↑ 6.3%$190€169
$190€169Check ↗
111
Kala Tenor Ukulele Starter KitKala

Index 30↓ 41.4%
30
↓ 41.4%$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
112
Cascha Premium Mahagoni Tenor BundleCascha

Index 29↓ 15.6%
29
↓ 15.6%$73€65
$73€65Check ↗
113
Kala KA-15-T BNDL Tenor Starter KitKala

Index 28↓ 6.7%
28
↓ 6.7%$156€139
$156€139Check ↗
114
Cascha Premium Mahogany Tenor Set BKCascha

Index 26Stable
26
Stable$83€74
$83€74Check ↗
115
Harley Benton Hawaii Cedar Tenor BundleHarley Benton

Index 25Stable
25
Stable$129€115
$129€115Check ↗
116
Harley Benton Hawaii Koa Tenor Ukulel BundleHarley Benton

Index 24↓ 1.6%
24
↓ 1.6%$208€185
$208€185Check ↗

Tenor Ukuleles by the numbers

Measured across all 129 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $235 — half of all tenor ukuleles here cost less.

<$100$100–200$200–400$400–750$750–1.5k$1.5k+

Nut width37 mm (1.46")

median of 77 models · 35 mm (1.38")–38 mm (1.5")

Scale430 mm (16.93")

median of 100 models · 402 mm (15.83")–440 mm (17.32")

Frets18

median of 109 models · 18–22

Fingerboardrosewood, ebony

most common · 48 models

How to choose the best tenor ukuleles

Pickup Voicing (if applicable)

If you're planning on plugging in, the pickup is critical. Cheap pickups often sound ice-picky and harsh. Look for pickups that try to replicate the natural tone of the instrument - a warm, round response is what you want, not a brittle, overly bright sound. Headroom is also key; it needs to handle a little drive without fizzing out.

Buying guide

So, you're stepping up from a soprano? Smart move. The tenor ukulele offers a richer tone, more fretboard space for comfortable chord voicings, and it just plain feels better in your hands. But with more options comes more to consider - wood choices, bracing patterns, and that all-important low-end thump that'll let you cut through a band mix. Let's break down what makes a good tenor ukulele.

Tenor ukuleles are a step up in price from sopranos, and you'll start to see corners cut if you go too cheap. Action is a huge factor - a high action will make playing uncomfortable and choke the tone. Don't be afraid to spend a bit more for a well-set-up instrument from a reputable brand.

Solid wood tops are almost always worth the extra investment; laminate tops tend to sound a bit flat and lifeless. Ultimately, play before you buy if you can - feel the neck, hear the tone, and make sure it inspires you.

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 129 tenor 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 tenor and a soprano ukulele?

Tenors are larger, have a longer scale length (17 inches vs. 13 inches for sopranos), and produce a deeper, richer tone. They're generally more comfortable to play for adults and offer more room for complex chord voicings.

Is a solid wood top really worth the extra money?

Generally, yes. Solid wood tops resonate more freely and produce a more complex, vibrant tone. Laminate tops can sound a bit 'boxy' and lack the same responsiveness. The difference is noticeable, especially when recording.

My tenor ukulele sounds 'muddy'. What's going on?

That's often a result of a dark wood like mahogany, or a bracing pattern that emphasizes the low end. It's not necessarily a bad thing - it can be great for cutting through a mix - but it might not be ideal for all genres. String choice can also affect this; try a brighter set of strings.

Can I easily tune a tenor ukulele down a step?

You can, but it's not always recommended. Tuning down can slacken the strings and potentially affect intonation. The neck might also need adjustment. It's best to check with a luthier if you plan on doing this regularly.

I'm planning to use my tenor ukulele for live gigs. What should I look for?

Durability is key. A well-built instrument that can handle the bumps and jostles of gigging is essential. A good preamp and pickup are a must if you're plugging in. And seriously, get a reliable case - you'll thank yourself later.