Published on this page in the GuitarFella archive — what our editors chose at the time, not a lab test.
Last Updated: May-07-2019
In our most recent reshuffle of this sub-$200 chart we only felt the need to remove one slightly dated model, which was the Oscar Schmidt OU5. However, we replaced this with not one, but two new models - the cute Fender Grace VanderWaal Signature uke and the striking Luna Tattoo Tenor.
If you have $200 in your pocket, a whole new world of quality in the ukulele market opens up to you. While we’re not totally clear of entry-level instruments, as the price increases, so too does the quality and variety of ukuleles.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy-playing model with a little more quality and punch than something you’d find in the
budget ukulele market, or are looking for your second, third or fourth uke, this sub-$200 range can leave you with a very satisfying instrument.
To help save you sifting through every single model in every single online/physical store, we’ve put together a short chart, highlighting five of the most popular ukuleles on the market today. Naturally there is a bigger range available, but the five below (which include a
soprano,
concert,
tenor and
baritone) will give you a good flavor of what’s on offer. Let’s check it out.
Top 7 Ukuleles Under $200:
Who Are These Ukuleles Aimed At?
Unlike the budget market, the majority of models in this range aren’t solely aimed at beginners. Although that’s not to say that beginners wouldn’t enjoy using them – after all, who wouldn’t want to learn on a ukulele that offers better sound, style and playability!?
However, with a step-up in quality, these ukes will likely be seen as upgrades for intermediate players, or an affordable style change for experienced players (perhaps those moving from tenor to baritone), or even as a reliable travel ukulele.
If you are a beginner, and want to check out more models across a range of prices that would suit you, take a look at
our guide to buying a beginner’s ukulele.
What to Look for in a Budget Ukulele?
Regardless of whether you’re buying a baritone, tenor, soprano or concert ukulele, there’s one thing all ukes in this sub-$200 price range should share, and that’s an increase in quality.
That’s not to say that these instruments will be flawless. However, most should be free from the glue spots, rough fret edges and lackluster tones that plague some of the models in the budget category.
Of course, this depends on the exact level you purchase at. A $105 uke may well be in the same price category as a $195 uke, but they’ll probably show off some big differences!
More often than not, the woods in this sub-$200 price range are still laminates, although you do find some models with solid tops. As with the budget market, mahogany remains one of the most popular tonewoods used in body construction, although some more exotic woods can also be found.
In this price range you can also stumble across some cool uke designs that just aren’t seen in the budget market. Tattooed bodies, artist signature designs, and even a Les Paul-style uke!
When it comes to hardware, you’ll find that electronics remain pretty basic, although these are a lot more versatile and reliable than some of the budget systems around. Some preamps will come with a decent built-in digital tuner, which are so convenient.
As for components, it’s still worth keeping an eye out for cheap plastic, although nuts and saddles tend to be bone or a composite material in this range, so you’re generally safe.
The Final Word
While dropping up to $200 on a ukulele probably isn’t a life changing decision, it’s still more than simply buying a cheap instrument, and you will want something that justifies the cash you spend.
If you’re not sure what to go for, something from
trusted ukulele brands like Luna, Kala, Mitchell, Epiphone, Cordoba, Fender or Lanikai will usually see you safe. When you’ve settled on a shortlist, do your best to listen to some sound samples, watch some videos of the uke in action, read plenty of reviews, and – if possible – try some out in a local guitar store.
Meanwhile, unless $200 is your ultimate limit, it’s also worth checking out the
best ukuleles under $300, as something just a tad higher in price may be exactly what you are looking for!
Whatever you go for, good luck with your new ukulele!