AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Tenor Ukuleles Under $2,000 2026

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 115 models across 19 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 22, 2026

115models in this chart
19brands
$235median price
8price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Tenor Ukuleles Showing: Under $2,000 · clear

Top 10

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

  1. 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
    • Maker99
    ↓ 46.0%since Aug 20
    $156 · Aug 20$84 now
    $84€75 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. 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
    • Maker99
    ↓ 55.7%since Aug 20 · lowest so far
    $504 · Aug 20$224 now
    $224€199 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. 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
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$291 now
    $291€259 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele

    KA-CT-SA-TG Tenor Ukulele · Kala

    12 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
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price61
    • Specs50
    • Maker99
    ↓ 3.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $529 · Aug 17$510 now
    $510€454 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Ibanez URGT100 Tenor Ukulele

    URGT100-BK · 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 offers a bright spruce top paired with a dark purpleheart fingerboard for a balanced tone. The undersaddle pickup keeps volume steady, making it great for beginners or small gigs. While the Okoume body is budget-friendly, the plastic nut and gloss finish limit long-term playability.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers bright, cutting tone
    • Purpleheart fingerboard adds rich, dark harmonic depth
    • Undersaddle pickup ensures consistent output

    Cons

    • Okoume back and sides may lack resonance
    • Plastic nut can cause fret buzz over time
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand63
    • Lineup86
    • Price50
    • Specs67
    • Maker49
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$167 now
    $167€149 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele

    KA-SDH-T Tenor Ukulele · Kala

    12 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.
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$325 now
    $325€289 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele

    CT-SMH-TG Tenor Ukulele · Kala

    12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Scale433 mm (17.05")
    • Frets19 frets
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    The Kala CT-SMH-TG is a beautifully crafted tenor ukulele, perfect for intermediate players or those seeking a premium instrument without the exorbitant price tag. The all-mahogany construction produces a wonderfully warm and mellow tone, ideal for traditional Hawaiian music and fingerstyle playing. It's a fantastic choice for players who prioritize natural wood tone and a comfortable playing feel.

    Pros

    • Solid mahogany construction delivers a warm, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
    • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, comfortable playing experience and clear note definition.
    • Bone nut and saddle enhance sustain and improve the ukulele's overall tonal clarity.

    Cons

    • Solid mahogany can be susceptible to temperature and humidity changes, requiring careful storage.
    • High-gloss finish might feel a bit thick for players preferring a more open, natural feel.
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$415 now
    $415€369 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele

    CT-SSRW-TG-C Tenor Ukulele · Kala

    12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Scale433 mm (17.05")
    • Frets19 frets
    • FingerboardEbony fingerboard

    This Kala Contour Series Tenor is a serious step up in build quality. The combination of spruce and rosewood creates a beautifully balanced tone – bright and clear, but with a lovely warmth. It’s ideal for intermediate to advanced players looking for a premium-priced instrument with a comfortable feel and professional appointments.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, responsive, and articulate tone with excellent projection.
    • Solid rosewood back and sides add warmth, sustain, and a richer harmonic complexity.
    • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience and excellent note clarity.

    Cons

    • Open-gear tuners, while aesthetically pleasing, aren't the most precise for fine tuning.
    • The high-gloss finish, while beautiful, might be a bit too reflective for some players' preferences.
    65AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs50
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$561 now
    $561€499 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. 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 17
    $257 · Aug 17$274 now
    $274€244 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor Ukulele

    KA-T Tenor Ukulele · Kala

    12 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.
    62AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand78
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs33
    • Maker99
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$176 now
    $176€157 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 115 tenor ukuleles

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

  1. 11
    Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor UkuleleKA-SMH-TG Tenor Ukulele · Kala
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$392€349
    $392€349Check ↗
  2. 12
    Kala KA-BMB-T Bamboo Tenor UkuleleKA-SMH-TG-CE Tenor Ukulele · Kala
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$650€579
    $650€579Check ↗
  3. 13
    Kala Makala KA-NS-RED-MNG-TE Tenor UkuleleKala Makala
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$1,235€1,099
    $1,235€1,099Check ↗
  4. 14
    Kala MK-T Makala Series Tenor UkuleleMakala Tenor Ukulele UB-T · Kala
    Index 61Stable
    61
    Stable$134€119
    $134€119Check ↗
  5. 15
    Kala Makala KA-CLM-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  6. 16
    Ortega RU5MM-TE UkuleleOrtega · 3 finishes
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$89€79
    $89€79Check ↗
  7. 17
    Kala Makala CTD-SMH-TG Tenor UkuleleKala Makala
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$504€449
    $504€449Check ↗
  8. 18
    Kala Makala KA-NS-BLK-MNG-TE Tenor UkuleleKala Makala
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$1,235€1,099
    $1,235€1,099Check ↗
  9. 19
    Baton Rouge V2-TACE SunBaton Rouge · 3 finishes
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  10. 20
    Kala Makala KA-CTD-SA-TG Tenor UkuleleKala Makala
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$729€649
    $729€649Check ↗
  11. 21
    Ortega RUGA-ORG UkuleleOrtega
    Index 53↓ 22.5%
    53
    ↓ 22.5%$78€69
    $78€69Check ↗
  12. 22
    Ortega RU4MM-TE-8Ortega
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$134€119
    $134€119Check ↗
  13. 23
    Ortega RU4MM-CE-TE-8Ortega
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$201€179
    $201€179Check ↗
  14. 24
    Flight Pathfinder Tenor TBLFlight · 2 finishes
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$277€247
    $277€247Check ↗
  15. 25
    Martin Guitar T1 FSC Tenor UkuleleMartin Guitar · 4 finishes
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$650€579
    $650€579Check ↗
  16. 26
    Flight Iris Tinta Tenor NAFlight · 2 finishes
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$206€183
    $206€183Check ↗
  17. 27
    Flight Vanguard Tenor E-Ukulele TPPFlight · 2 finishes
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$370€329
    $370€329Check ↗
  18. 28
    Flight NUT500 TenorFlight
    Index 50↓ 5.1%
    50
    ↓ 5.1%$106€94
    $106€94Check ↗
  19. 29
    Ortega RUGH-BKTOrtega
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  20. 30
    Ortega RUGH-SRTOrtega
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  21. 31
    Ortega RUGH-PLTOrtega
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  22. 32
    Ortega RUGH-OCTOrtega
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  23. 33
    Ortega RUOX-TEOrtega
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$145€129
    $145€129Check ↗
  24. 34
    Flight Iris Calantas TenorFlight
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$167€149
    $167€149Check ↗
  25. 35
    Kala Makala MK8 Tenor UkuleleKala
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  26. 36
    Ortega RUHZ30TH-JF Tenor UkuleleOrtega
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$357€318
    $357€318Check ↗
  27. 37
    Flight Aviator QM Tenor CEFlight
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$376€335
    $376€335Check ↗
  28. 38
    Flight Comet Tenor Ukulele BLFlight · 2 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$673€599
    $673€599Check ↗
  29. 39
    Kala KA-SCAC-T8 Tenor UkuleleKala
    Index 47↓ 4.0%
    47
    ↓ 4.0%$538€479
    $538€479Check ↗
  30. 40
    Ortega RUGA-SKY UkuleleOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$84€75
    $84€75Check ↗
  31. 41
    Ortega RUGA-PLT UkuleleOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$84€75
    $84€75Check ↗
  32. 42
    Ortega RUGA-GAP UkuleleOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$84€75
    $84€75Check ↗
  33. 43
    Ortega RUNAB-TEOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$222€198
    $222€198Check ↗
  34. 44
    Ortega NEO-U-TSBOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$231€206
    $231€206Check ↗
  35. 45
    Ortega NEO-U-TGBOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗
  36. 46
    Ortega RUACA-TEOrtega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$268€239
    $268€239Check ↗
  37. 47
    Kala KA-EBY-TE Tenor UkuleleKala
    Index 46↓ 6.9%
    46
    ↓ 6.9%$302€269
    $302€269Check ↗
  38. 48
    Flight Aviator Mango Tenor CEFlight
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  39. 49
    Ortega ECLIPSE-TE8Ortega
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  40. 50
    Flight Navigator Tenor EQ-A SBFlight
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$545€485
    $545€485Check ↗

Tenor Ukuleles by the numbers

Measured across all 128 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

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

10
36
43
30
8
1
<$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 99 models · 402 mm (15.83")–440 mm (17.32")

Frets18

median of 108 models · 18–22

Fingerboardrosewood, ebony

most common · 47 models

How to choose the best tenor ukuleles

Wood Choice

Spruce, mahogany, and koa are common. Spruce offers a brighter, more articulate tone - great for cutting through a mix - while mahogany tends to be warmer and more mellow. Koa, when properly figured, provides a complex, slightly sweet tone, but it's also the most expensive, so expect compromises at this price point.

Bracing Pattern

A well-executed bracing pattern is crucial for sustain and projection. Look for a fan bracing pattern, as it generally distributes vibrations more effectively than a ladder brace, leading to a fuller, more resonant tone. Cheaper ukes often skimp here, resulting in a boxy, lifeless sound.

Neck Profile & Action

A comfortable neck is paramount. A slim, even profile is generally preferred, especially for faster playing. Equally important is the action - the string height above the fretboard. Too high, and it's a chore to play; too low, and you'll get fret buzz. Ideally, you want something adjustable and comfortable.

Hardware Quality

Tuners are often overlooked, but they're critical for staying in tune on stage. Cheap plastic tuners will slip and make gigging a nightmare. Solid geared tuners are a must, and a good nut material (bone or Tusq) will improve sustain and tuning stability.

Overall Build Quality

Check for consistent fretwork, clean glue joints, and a well-fitted bridge. These details speak to the overall care and craftsmanship that went into the instrument. Sloppy construction translates to intonation problems and a shorter lifespan.

Buying guide

So, you're looking for a tenor uke that doesn't require selling a kidney? Smart move. The tenor size gives you more real estate for some serious fingerpicking and chord voicings, and thankfully, you don't need to drop serious cash to get a playable, gig-worthy instrument.

At this price range, you're trading off something. A solid koa top will sound gorgeous but might mean simpler tuners or less refined bracing. Don't be swayed by flashy aesthetics - focus on the fundamentals: playability and tone.

A well-set-up instrument, even with less premium wood, will always sound and feel better than a poorly built one with fancy appointments. Prioritize a comfortable neck profile and low action; those are easy fixes later, but a bad neck profile is a dealbreaker.

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 128 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 laminate and solid wood?

Laminate is basically plywood - more stable and less prone to cracking, but it dampens the tone. Solid wood breathes and resonates more, offering better projection and a richer tone, but requires more careful humidity control.

Does a built-in pickup really make a difference?

It depends. Many stock pickups are... underwhelming, often colored and lacking dynamics. A decent aftermarket pickup, though, can be a lifesaver for live gigs or recording, allowing you to cut through the mix without sacrificing too much natural tone. But factor that extra cost in.

Are 'concert' and 'tenor' sizes really that different?

Yes. Tenor ukes have a longer scale length (typically 17 inches vs. 15 inches for concert), which gives you more string tension, a fuller low-end thump, and generally better intonation. It's a more versatile size for serious playing.

What should I look for in the 'action'?

Ideally, the action should be low enough to play comfortably without fret buzz. Around 2.5mm-3mm at the 12th fret is a good starting point, but personal preference varies. A luthier can adjust it if needed.

Can I realistically expect 'koa' tone under $2000?

You can get some koa, but it'll almost certainly be a koa top over a mahogany back and sides - a cost-saving measure. Don't expect the complex, shimmering tone of a solid all-koa uke; it's a different beast altogether. Manage your expectations.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 71Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele · $84€75
Check price ↗
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