The ukulele is a small-bodied four- or five-stringed instrument that originated in the southern United States. It has been a prominent member of the Hawaiian musical ensemble since the end of the 19th century.
Its wide distribution, popularity, and kinship with other similar instruments have led to it becoming a symbol of Hawaiian culture worldwide.
In the days after the Great War of 1914, King George V’s Ukulele Orchestra had a ground-breaking idea: It had been a time of great economic and personal turmoil for many people. In order to strengthen social ties, they decided to rally around a shared love of playing the ukulele.
To commemorate this new era in peace and unity, they were going to create a list of their favorite affordable ukuleles.
Table of Contents
Buying Guide
If you are in the market for a ukulele to purchase, you should keep these things in mind when figuring out what type of instrument to get. We recommend that you think about what kind of music or styles your friends like, which will narrow down your search somewhat.
Style and Comfort
The style played has a lot to do with the instrument choice. Different styles of music require different instruments, so if you want to play Hawaiian ukulele music, you will want to get one that is more of a traditional or classic type. If you’re looking for something more modern and contemporary, consider the Kala ukulele.
Body Size and Style
You’ll have a choice of soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. Soprano ukuleles are very small and portable, while a baritone is a bit larger. A concert-sized instrument will be the most versatile, as it will allow you to play more contemporary styles of music. A tenor uke is larger than the concert type but smaller than the baritone-sized type. Baritones are typically recommended for beginners or players with large hands or fingers.
Type of Strings
The strings on the ukulele are the most important aspect when it comes to choosing one. Ukuleles for beginners typically have nylon strings, while more advanced players may opt for sets made of bronze. The best string is a set of Aquila Nylgut or Antares Nylgut. The quality of the sound they produce is very good, but they are also very warm sounding compared to many other types.
5 Best Ukuleles Under $200
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Fender Grace VanderWaal Signature Ukulele – Walnut
- Concert-sized ukulele; Dark Walnut gloss finish
- Fishman Kula preamp system
- Sapele construction; Gold hardware
- Gold sparkle rosette; custom floral sound hole label
- Warranty Included
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The new Fender Grace VanderWaal Signature Ukulele is just the thing to take your child’s playing to an entirely new level. It’s also perfect for any musician on the go who needs their favorite instrument with them wherever they go.
Pros :
- Very attractive instrument with a deep, rich woodgrain
- Left handed
- Easy to play with amplified sound system included
- Generous fretboard for easy fingering
Cons :
- “Lacquered” finish is easy to scratch or chip if not handled delicately
- Some users may find the fretboard too thick and unwieldy, especially younger players.
2. Kala KA-PWT Pacific Walnut Tenor Acoustic Ukulele
- Pacific walnut body
- Mahogany neck
- Roswood fingerboard and bridge
- Satin finish
- Black heel cap and binding on top, sides and back
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Kala KA-PWT Pacific Walnut Tenor Acoustic Ukulele is a ukulele that’s known for its acoustic sound and design. The ukulele has a mahogany body and neck, with the body being made of basswood.
Pros :
- Top-tier construction using select tonewoods
- Hardshell case included
- Custom taper mahogany neck
Cons :
- The Kala KA-PWT Pacific Walnut Tenor Acoustic Ukulele is a professional quality instrument that can serve as your main ukulele or as an affordable backup for live performances.
3. Cordoba 20BM Mahogany Baritone Ukulele
- Solid mahogany top
- Mahogany back and sides
- Rosewood bridge and fingerboard
- Natural satin finish
- Aquila Nylgut Baritone strings (DGBE)
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Cordoba 20BM Mahogany Baritone Ukulele offers a big sound with a tiny body and is made from 100% mahogany. It is the perfect choice for those who like to play the ukulele and sing at the same time.
Pros :
- Plays incredibly well
- Comes with a free padded gig bag
- Made in Cordoba, Argentina
- Wide range of colors to choose from
Cons :
- Must assemble it yourself, but this is easy despite the scary warnings that are often found throughout the product description.
4. Ukulele From Lohanu Amazing Looking Spalted Maple With Armrest Glossy Finish With 3 Band EQ & Pickup With All Accessories Included! (Concert Size)
- From the brand Lohanu, makers of one of the BEST SELLING Concert Ukuleles on Amazon! Amazing Beautiful Glossy Uke! Special feature Armrest! Electric...
- UNCONDITIONAL LIFETIME WARRANTY for Ukulele & All Accessories!!! BEST Customer Service from a Canadian Company!! FREE BONUS UKULELE VIDEO LESSONS!
- AMAZING SOUND! Features an Arched Back to give longer sustain & fuller sound! High quality Pick up!
- TWO STRAP BUTTONS INSTALLED! All ACCESSORIES INCLUDED! (Strap, Tuner, Case, 2 Plastic Picks, Paracord Hanger, Extra Set of Aquila Strings, One Leather...
- AMAZING BEAUTIFUL LOOKING UKULELE! 24 inches long, Spalted Maple Glossy Top, Back & Sides & Neck, Technical Wood Fingerboard, Super Aquila Strings...
Last update on 2024-04-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The ukulele from Lohanu is a truly amazing instrument with a really unique design. It looks absolutely stunning and it also has a lot of great features, some of which are some the most advanced available on any uke.
Pros :
- Looking for a ukulele that can’t wait to become yours? You’ve found it! This Ukulele is the perfect choice.
- Looking for a ukulele that can’t wait to become yours? You’ve found it! This Ukulele is the perfect choice.
- Looking for a ukulele that can’t wait to become yours? You’ve found it! This Ukulele is the perfect choice.
Cons :
- The ukulele doesn’t sound as great as a regular sized acoustic guitar but the size makes it easier to transport.
5. Luna Honu Tribal Turtle Spruce Soprano Ukulele Bundle with Gig Bag, Tuner, Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, and Polishing Cloth
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Whether you’re an aspiring ukulele virtuoso or just want a fun activity for your kids, the Luna Honu Tribal Turtle Spruce Soprano Ukulele Bundle will make you sound like a star and stay happy and confident with the Austin Bazaar instructional DVD and Polishing Cloth.
Pros :
- Beautiful instrument, with an artfully crafted design
- Produces deep, rich tones
- Built with the latest technology in traditional Hawaiian instruments
- Tuned perfectly for Hawaiian music
Cons :
- The Luna Honu Tribal Turtle Soprano Ukulele Bundle with Gig Bag, Tuner, Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, and Polishing Cloth is not cheap
- The picture is grainy
Conclusion :
The date is August, 2024. We’ve explored all the best ukuleles under $200 for this year and ensured that you don’t run into any trouble when making your purchase.
We have only included the ukuleles that are worth your time, are of high quality, and have an excellent sound to them.