AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tenor Ukuleles for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Kala KA-JTE/2TS Archtop Tenor Ukulele ($224). Kala MK-T Makala Series Tenor Ukulele gives you the most for the money at $134. Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 117 models across 20 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 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↓ 55.7%since Aug 20 · lowest so far$504 · Aug 20$224 now$224€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$291 now$291€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck 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.
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- 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.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$176 now$176€157 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width37 mm (1.46")
- Scale440 mm (17.32")
- Frets18 frets
- BodyMahogany body
The RU5CE-TE is a solid, affordable tenor ukulele – a great option for beginners and intermediate players looking for a stage-ready instrument. The spruce top gives it a brighter voice, while the mahogany body keeps things grounded and warm. It's particularly well-suited for folk, Hawaiian, or light strumming styles where a clear, amplified sound is needed.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with good projection
- Mahogany body provides a warm, balanced foundation to the sound
- Ortega MagusUke pickup system offers surprisingly clean amplified sound
Cons
- Mahogany construction can be slightly 'woody' – lacks some tonal complexity
- Cutaway access to higher frets is a bit cramped for larger hands
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width37 mm (1.46")
- Scale430 mm (16.93")
- Frets18 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardWalnut fingerboard
This tenor uke has a nice mahogany body and a cutaway for easy high-note access. The rechargeable pickup makes it great for playing in noisy rooms. While it lacks a listed weight or top wood, the armrest and walnut fingerboard make it a solid choice for players who want a bit more range than a soprano or concert model.
Pros
- Cutaway design lets you reach high frets easily.
- Mahogany body offers a warm, rich tone.
- Rechargeable UKB pickup adds volume for practice.
Cons
- Scale length is longer than standard ukulele size.
- No top wood material is specified in text.
56AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$224 now$224€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck 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.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$134 now$134€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width38 mm (1.5")
- Scale430 mm (16.93")
- Frets18 frets
- Strings8-string
- BodyMahogany body
This eight-string uke sounds like a big guitar with a warm mahogany body. The TUSQ nut helps you play all the extra strings cleanly. It works great for jazz players who want a full, rich sound without carrying heavy batteries.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body provides a warm, rich tone
- TUSQ nut ensures smooth intonation and easier string bending
- MAGUSX pickup offers built-in amplification for performance
Cons
- Eight strings make the fretboard wider than standard tenor sizes
- Natural finish may show dust or wear more easily than colored options
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$201 now$201€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width35 mm (1.38")
- Scale432 mm (17.01")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyBasswood body
The Flight Pathfinder TBL is a seriously cool-looking and surprisingly versatile tenor ukulele. The pickup setup makes it great for gigging or recording, and the roasted maple neck is a joy to play. This is a fantastic choice for players who want a unique voice and amplified capabilities without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Flamed maple top adds visual flair and a touch of brightness to the tone.
- Roasted maple fretboard offers smooth playability and resists humidity changes.
- Humbucker/single coil pickup combination provides versatile tonal options for different styles.
Cons
- Basswood, while warm, lacks the premium tonal complexity of mahogany or koa.
- High-gloss finish may be prone to fingerprints and require diligent care.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$277 now$277€247 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 117 tenor ukuleles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Flight Iris Tinta Tenor NAFlight · 2 finishes51Stable$206€183$206€183Check ↗
- 12
Ortega RUOX-TEOrtega48Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 13
Flight Iris Calantas TenorFlight48Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 14
Kala Makala MK8 Tenor UkuleleKala48Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 15
Ortega RUNAB-TEOrtega46Stable$222€198$222€198Check ↗
- 16
Ortega NEO-U-TSBOrtega46Stable$231€206$231€206Check ↗
- 17
Ortega NEO-U-TGBOrtega46Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 18
Ortega RUACA-TEOrtega46Stable$268€239$268€239Check ↗
- 19
Kala KA-EBY-TE Tenor UkuleleKala46↓ 6.9%$302€269$302€269Check ↗
- 20
Ortega RU4MM-TE-8Ortega53Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 21
Kala KA-UNITY-T Tenor UkuleleKala45Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 22
Leolani Concert Hawaiian Koa UkuleleLeolani45↓ 10.1%$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 23
Kala Makala KA-AM-T-CE Amara T-UkuleleKala Makala43Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 24
Kala KA-TK-T-CE Teak Tri-Top TenorKala43Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 25
Flight Iris Tenor Ukulele BKFlight43Stable$174€155$174€155Check ↗
- 26
Leolani Macassar Ebony Tenor UkuleleLeolani43Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 27
Leolani Tenor Mango Ukulele SH 5Leolani43Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 28
Ibanez AUT10-OPNIbanez43Stable$230€205$230€205Check ↗
- 29
Flight Diana TE Tenor UkuleleFlight43Stable$253€225$253€225Check ↗
- 30
Leolani Tenor Mango Ukulele SHLeolani43Stable$268€239$268€239Check ↗
- 31
Baton Rouge UTC-T CherryBaton Rouge42Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 32
Baton Rouge UTAP-T Apple Tenor UkuleleBaton Rouge42Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 33
Kala Makala KA-LEGACY-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala41Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 34
Ortega RTPS-U-SBK-LOrtega41Stable$231€206$231€206Check ↗
- 35
Ortega RTPS-U-SBKOrtega41Stable$231€206$231€206Check ↗
- 36
Ortega RTPS-U-NATOrtega41Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 37
Ortega RTPX-U-ACAOrtega41Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 38
Ortega RTPX-U-FMAOrtega41Stable$249€222$249€222Check ↗
- 39
Cascha Cedar Tenor UkuleleCascha39Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 40
Harley Benton Hawaii Koa Tenor UkuleleHarley Benton39Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton Hawaii Koa Tenor Ukulel w/BagHarley Benton39Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 42
Cascha Cedar Tenor Uku Solid Top EQCascha39Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 43
Höfner Ukulele Violin SizeHöfner38Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 44
Kala Makala KA-CLM-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala59Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 45
Kai KTI-700 Tenor UkuleleKai37Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 46
Thomann Tenor Ukulele with PUThomann35Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 47
Epiphone Ukulele Hummingbird Outfit FCSEpiphone35Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 48
Baton Rouge UTAS-T AshBaton Rouge42Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 49
Baton Rouge UTM-T Flamed MapleBaton Rouge42Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 50
Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor UkuleleSatin Mahogany Tenor Ukulele · Kala71↓ 46.0%$84€75$84€75Check ↗
Tenor Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 130 models we track, not a sample.
Median $246 — half of all tenor ukuleles here cost less.
median of 79 models · 35 mm (1.38")–38 mm (1.5")
median of 101 models · 425 mm (16.73")–440 mm (17.32")
median of 110 models · 18–22
most common · 49 models
How to choose the best tenor ukuleles
Playability (Action & Neck Profile)
Forget a thick, unwieldy neck. As an intermediate player, you need something comfortable for fingerpicking and those tricky chord voicings. Action that's not too high or too low - a little room for adjustment is ideal. A comfortable 'C' or 'D' profile is generally a safe bet.
Tone & Articulation
That bright, chimey ukulele tone is great, but you need more nuance. Listen for a balanced response across the frequencies - not too much ice-picky high-end, but enough clarity to hear individual notes when fingerpicking. Good articulation is key for cuts through a band mix.
Sustain & Headroom
A little sustain helps those melodies linger, and headroom means you can dig in without the tone collapsing into a muddy mess. This is especially important if you're thinking about adding a pickup for amplified gigs.
Build Quality & Materials
Solid wood tops (like spruce or mahogany) will generally give you better resonance and tonal complexity than laminate. Intonation needs to be spot-on-nothing's more frustrating than a ukulele that's out of tune as you move up the neck.
Versatility & Pickup Options
Are you planning on recording? Gigging? A built-in pickup can be a game-changer, but the voicing is critical. A bad pickup can make even a great ukulele sound lifeless and sterile. Consider the pickup's EQ and how it interacts with your amp or interface.
Buying guide
Alright, so you've moved past the basic C chord strumming and are actually looking to play some tenor uke. That's awesome. The tenor size opens up a lot of possibilities-more range, different voicings, and a chance to really start shaping your tone. But not every tenor is created equal, especially when you're past the beginner phase and need something that can handle more complex playing and a gig or two.
Don't chase the prettiest finish. Focus on playability first - a poorly set-up, beautiful ukulele is useless. Many cheaper tenors will cut corners on the nut and saddle material (plastic instead of bone or Tusq) - that's where you'll hear a noticeable difference in sustain and clarity.
If you're serious about recording, factor in a decent preamp if you're going electric; a cheap pickup will just limit your options.
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 130 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 soprano and tenor ukulele, and why did I outgrow the soprano?
Sopranos are smaller and have a higher pitch, which can feel cramped as your fingers get bigger and your chord vocabulary expands. Tenors have more range and a fuller tone, allowing for more complex arrangements and alternate tunings.
I'm thinking about getting a pickup - what should I look for?
Look for a pickup with a natural, balanced voicing. Piezo pickups can be harsh, so consider a KNA or magnetic soundhole pickup. An onboard preamp with a simple EQ is a huge plus for shaping your tone.
What does 'action' mean, and why is it important?
Action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. High action makes it harder to fret notes cleanly; low action can cause buzzing. A comfortable action allows for easier playing and better intonation.
Solid wood vs. laminate - does it really matter?
It does. Solid wood vibrates more freely, resulting in a richer, more complex tone with better sustain. Laminate is more durable and cheaper, but it'll sound noticeably more 'boxed in.'
I'm on a budget. What are some compromises I can make?
You might have to settle for a laminate top instead of solid, or a simpler, less versatile pickup. Focus on getting a good setup - even a budget ukulele can sound decent if it's properly intonated and the action is adjusted correctly.





