Best Ukuleles For 2022

There are different types of ukuleles. Concert ukuleles, for instance, play in a lower range than the higher pitched Soprano ukuleles. So before you head out "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" to choose a ukulele, be sure to check out this album of our favorites.

The sound quality of the solid African mahogany 23-inch ukulele gives top-quality results at a great value. The shiny finish lets the grain of the wood show through, making this uke look as good as its sounds. Bone guitar nuts and bridge saddles are much nicer than the plastic pieces on inferior instruments. The rosewood fingerboard contrasts nicely to the body and has advanced carbon strings for clear sound quality. You get everything you need – a two-strap carry case, an instrument strap, tuner, set of extra strings, a cleaning cloth, a free online lesson, and four guitar picks with this bundle kit.

Soprano 21-inch ukuleles are the perfect starter stringed instrument. With pressing just one finger on the A (bottom) string on the third fret (the third neck section), you can already play the most popular chord of all, C Major. That's the first chord and about one quarter of the famous Iz version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." Play along with the included songbook. Because all the strings are different colors, the songbook helps by creating an easy way to learn this fun instrument.

Because it's made from wood, this ukulele, like other fine instruments, will sound more resonant as it ages. So as you get better at playing, it gets better sounding, too. Holding and playing this uke is more comfortable with this one's rounded edges. The neck is attached to the body with a sturdy dovetail joint and it's ribbed for extra strength. Check out the free online tutorial and start making music today.

This classic is one of the subtly adorned soprano ukuleles, but there are three other designs to choose from. We appreciate the Polynesian-style design around the sound hole. It gives that Hawaiian touch to this lovely stringed instrument. Although 'invented' in Hawaii, the uke's predecessor probably arrived in the islands from Portuguese sailors or whalers. All this attention to detail makes these instruments look amazing and sound even better.

A walnut fingerboard and bridge provide an artistic contrast to this attractive painted maple ukulele. We like the white nylon strings and silver gear tuners. Two months of free lessons are included with this bright blue 21-inch soprano ukulele. That's plenty of time to learn a few dozen songs. So why wait? Making music is fun and easy with this beginner bundle that includes ukulele, strap, picks, and tote bag. Take it to the beach or play it at parties with friends.

Cyndi Mathews is a contributing writer to Islands and recently published her first book and enjoys traveling to Florida in her sailboat. Islands is an award-winning brand founded in 1980 that speaks to international travelers who have an affinity for the Caribbean and beyond. The website showcases destinations, resorts, cruises, and recommendations by the Islands' staff.