AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Tenor Ukuleles Under $300 2026
The top pick is Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele ($84). Kala KA-15T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 67 models across 14 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-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
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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 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
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 ↗ -
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 ↗ -
- Scale428.6 mm (16.88")
- Frets18 frets
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This ukulele feels solid thanks to its full mahogany construction. The Graph Tech nut makes changing strings easier, and the open gears hold tune well. It lacks electronics or a listed weight, so it suits acoustic players who want a classic sound.
Pros
- Solid mahogany top and body for warm tone
- Graph Tech NuBone nut and saddle for playability
- Open-gear tuners for stable tuning
Cons
- No electronics included for amplified use
- Weight not listed in description
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- Nut width37 mm (1.46")
- Scale440 mm (17.32")
- Frets18 frets
- BodyMahogany body
This tenor uke feels solid with a mahogany body and a bright sapele top. The walnut fretboard stays stable under your fingers, and the laser engraving looks neat. It plays well for solo strumming but needs a pickup if you want to plug in.
Pros
- Solid mahogany back and sides for warm tone
- Sapele top offers bright, cutting clarity
- Laser engraving adds nice visual detail
Cons
- No electronic pickup included for amplification
- Enclosed heads may limit tuning adjustments
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- 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 ↗
All 67 tenor ukuleles
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ortega RUGA-ORG UkuleleOrtega53↓ 22.5%$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 12
Ortega RU4MM-TE-8Ortega53Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 13
Ortega RU4MM-CE-TE-8Ortega53Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 14
Flight Pathfinder Tenor TBLFlight · 2 finishes53Stable$277€247$277€247Check ↗
- 15
Flight Iris Tinta Tenor NAFlight · 2 finishes51Stable$206€183$206€183Check ↗
- 16
Flight NUT500 TenorFlight50↓ 5.1%$106€94$106€94Check ↗
- 17
Ortega RUGH-BKTOrtega48Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 18
Ortega RUGH-SRTOrtega48Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 19
Ortega RUGH-PLTOrtega48Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 20
Ortega RUGH-OCTOrtega48Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 21
Ortega RUOX-TEOrtega48Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 22
Flight Iris Calantas TenorFlight48Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 23
Kala Makala MK8 Tenor UkuleleKala48Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 24
Ortega RUGA-SKY UkuleleOrtega46Stable$84€75$84€75Check ↗
- 25
Ortega RUGA-PLT UkuleleOrtega46Stable$84€75$84€75Check ↗
- 26
Ortega RUGA-GAP UkuleleOrtega46Stable$84€75$84€75Check ↗
- 27
Ortega RUNAB-TEOrtega46Stable$222€198$222€198Check ↗
- 28
Ortega NEO-U-TSBOrtega46Stable$231€206$231€206Check ↗
- 29
Ortega NEO-U-TGBOrtega46Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 30
Ortega RUACA-TEOrtega46Stable$268€239$268€239Check ↗
- 31
Kala KA-UNITY-T Tenor UkuleleKala45Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 32
Leolani Concert Hawaiian Koa UkuleleLeolani45↓ 10.1%$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 33
Cascha Tenor Ukulele Premium Mah LHCascha44Stable$89€79$89€79Check ↗
- 34
Kala KA-TK-T-CE Teak Tri-Top TenorKala43Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 35
Kala Makala KA-AM-T-CE Amara T-UkuleleKala Makala43Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 36
Flight Iris Tenor Ukulele BKFlight43Stable$174€155$174€155Check ↗
- 37
Leolani Macassar Ebony Tenor UkuleleLeolani43Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 38
Leolani Tenor Mango Ukulele SH 5Leolani43Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 39
Ibanez AUT10-OPNIbanez43Stable$230€205$230€205Check ↗
- 40
Flight Diana TE Tenor UkuleleFlight43Stable$253€225$253€225Check ↗
- 41
Leolani Tenor Mango Ukulele SHLeolani43Stable$268€239$268€239Check ↗
- 42
Cascha E-Tenor Ukulele Premium MahCascha42Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 43
Baton Rouge UTM-T Flamed MapleBaton Rouge42Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 44
Baton Rouge UTAS-T AshBaton Rouge42Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 45
Baton Rouge UTC-T CherryBaton Rouge42Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 46
Baton Rouge UTAP-T Apple Tenor UkuleleBaton Rouge42Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton Hawaii Cedar Tenor UkuleleHarley Benton41Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 48
Kala Makala KA-LEGACY-T Tenor UkuleleKala Makala41Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 49
Ortega RTPS-U-SBKOrtega41Stable$231€206$231€206Check ↗
- 50
Ortega RTPS-U-SBK-LOrtega41Stable$231€206$231€206Check ↗
Tenor Ukuleles by the numbers
Measured across all 75 models we track, not a sample.
Median $167 — half of all tenor ukuleles here cost less.
median of 49 models · 35 mm (1.38")–38 mm (1.5")
median of 59 models · 380 mm (14.96")–440 mm (17.32")
median of 62 models · 18–22
most common · 26 models
How to choose the best tenor ukuleles
Tone
We're looking for a balanced response, avoiding that brittle, ice-picky high-end you often find on cheaper instruments. A little warmth and sustain is a huge plus, especially if you're playing with a band.
Playability
Action is key. Too high and it's a chore to play; too low and you'll get fret buzz. A comfortable neck profile makes a big difference when you're practicing or gigging for hours.
Intonation
Does it stay in tune as you move up the neck? Poor intonation is a deal-breaker, no matter how pretty the instrument looks.
Build Quality
Solid wood tops (like spruce or mahogany) generally sound better than laminate, but expect some compromises at this price point. Check for clean fretwork and overall construction integrity.
Projection
Can it cut through the mix? A tenor needs to be heard, especially when playing with other instruments. Look for a decent soundboard vibration - that's where the volume comes from.
Buying guide
So you're looking for a tenor uke that won't break the bank? Smart move. Tenor ukes offer a real step up in projection and low-end thump compared to sopranos, but they can still sound surprisingly good without emptying your wallet. Let's cut through the noise and find you something that'll hold its own at rehearsals, open mics, or even a low-key gig.
At this price range, expect some trade-offs. Solid wood tops are a bonus, but often paired with laminate back and sides to keep costs down. Fretwork can be a bit rough - a quick trip to a luthier for a leveling and crowning can make a world of difference.
Don't chase 'big' sound; focus on clarity, intonation, and playability - those are the foundations of a good instrument.
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 75 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 multiple layers of wood glued together - it's more resistant to humidity changes but generally sounds less resonant. Solid wood vibrates more freely, giving you more warmth and sustain, but can be more susceptible to environmental changes.
Can I plug this into an amp?
Some of these have basic built-in pickups, but don't expect premium voicing. The signal will be usable, but you'll likely want an external preamp for serious recording or gigging to add warmth and headroom.
What's a comfortable neck profile?
That's subjective, but generally a 'C' or 'D' shape is comfortable for most players. A thicker 'D' profile offers more sustain but can feel bulkier. Try before you buy if possible.
My ukulele has fret buzz. Is that normal?
A little bit is, especially on new instruments. However, excessive fret buzz indicates a setup issue. A luthier can adjust the action and level the frets to minimize it.
What tuning should I use?
Standard tenor tuning is GCEA, a whole step up from soprano. Experiment with different tunings to find what suits your playing style and the music you're playing.
