8 Fantastic Ukuleles Under $100 – Reviews and Buying Guide

The mahogany body is a hardwood variation, and if nothing else, this at least offers a more durable frame to the instrument. Complementing the body is the Aquila Nylgut string set. You can get these strings independently so you know if one of them gets damaged, you can easily replace them. Nonetheless, they are made to last long, and not only that, but to have more sound projection. This is in addition to their ability to play consistently through moisture changes.

Another top feature is the fret markers included to help users play the right notes. These are stylized in a shark teeth look and are in addition to another design feature that makes the tool a joy to look at. This is the tattoo carvings in line with the instrument’s Hawaiian origins, where geometric shapes are incorporated into a tribal art outlook. You will also need to own a carry bag for this piece of equipment since you will no doubt be transporting it from time to time. Fortunately for you, the ukulele does ship with a branded carry bag. 1.3 pounds being its standard weight, you will no doubt have an easy time carrying it around as well.

What stands out?

• Crystal clear sound
• Great aesthetics
• Durable and long-lasting wooden construction
• Easy to find string replacements
• Travel bag included

What cons did we manage to find?

• Users don’t have much to complain about except the fact that it doesn’t have as many accessories in the package as other options

Another aesthetically pleasing option to feature on our list is the AKLOT Tenor Ukulele. The mahogany wood used in its making is exceptionally well polished, and you can expect the same level of resilience that other mahogany options offer. If you are insistent on top-quality tuning equipment, then this device comes with its own minimizing the need to spend extra. However, this is not the only accessory included. Others include a strap, gig bag, an extra set of strings and guitar picks.

Coming in at 3.09 pounds, the instrument is by no means weightless in comparison to other ukuleles. However, the device is still in a reasonable weight range and maybe touted by some as the best tenor ukulele under 100.

What makes it special?

• Good looking design
• Comes with a full set of accessories including a top-notch tuner
• Free online lessons
• 45-day money-back guarantee

What cons did we find?

• Needs to be tuned often
• You may need to buy better strings to make the best use of the instrument

Tenor ukuleles are on the whole more significant than their concert counterparts, and thus, you will find that to be true for this model as well. This is evidenced by the dimensions mentioned above. Also true is the fact that this instrument is heavier than the Luna Tattoo Concert Ukulele by almost a full pound. Nevertheless, you would hardly compare it size-wise with acoustic guitars. After playing it, you will see the sound quality to be quite similar.

Construction-wise you will find a mix between different types of hardwood. Of course, the body is mitigated against the shock of a few bumps and bruises as you will no doubt experience some on your musical journey.

If you are only just moving to a tenor ukulele from a concert one, then you might experience a difference in string tightness. Nonetheless, this is a transition you can make quickly. The arched back on this device is not just for aesthetics but also so that it comes to bring out a fuller, deeper sound.

You should also appreciate the inclusion of strap buttons. The strap can be an additional purchase that won’t cost you much. Another benefit is you get a money-back guarantee along with a one year warranty.

Why did it make our list?

• One year warranty
• Money-back guarantee
• Solid construction
• Comes with bag
• Strap buttons included

What is not ideal about it?

• Users may have to tune the uke often
• The frets may also need to be filed due to their sharp, rugged nature

The Ranch Concert Ukulele comes with a lined fabric gig bag that is handy for not only when you go for a gig but also when you are traveling and need your ukulele with you. While the body is one of the more impressive aspects of this device, you should also take note of the digital tuner. If you make use of this accessory every time you go on stage, you are almost guaranteed to play all the right notes.

While this is a complete concert set, you would do well to note that it is also ideal for beginners. This is explicitly shown by the fact that buyers can get 12 free online lessons, as well. Included in the package are a cleaning cloth and an additional set of strings. However unlikely, you might still not find this device to be right for you, and hence, you get a thirty-day money-back guarantee.

Why are we impressed?

• Comes with loads of accessories
• Free lessons
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Clear cut sound
• Reasonably affordable

What negatives must you be aware of?

• The device is heavier than most other options
• The tuner may be a bit off requiring that you buy a third party one

The Oscar Schmidt OU2-A-U Concert Ukulele is another concert ukulele addition to our list. As such, it is only expected that the device is lightweight, and it does weigh in at one pound. The body is essential as well, with this one featuring full mahogany construction with a satin finish. Some people speculate that this is the reason for the warm low tones as well as the clarity of the high pitched tones as well. Unlike the editor’s choice, this instrument is relatively plain looking with no extravagant design inclusions on the body.

One factor that is impressive about the device is the geared chrome tuners. This being a ukulele, you may have to tune it as often as you play it, and these inclusions make it easier to do that. You can get the device for slightly less than 80 dollars, with the overall consensus being that this is a bargain once you have experienced the quality of the product. Additionally, a limited lifetime warranty comes to bear with this device.

Why is it special?

• Solid construction
• Clear sound quality
• Easy to tune
• Practically weightless
• Lifetime warranty

What are the flaws?

• Doesn’t come with a bag
• No strap buttons either

The overall look of this device is different not only with other ukuleles but also with guitars as well. Nevertheless, the basics of making this device are the same. It has a mahogany body with no etchings on the body and hence, a rather simple outlook. This model uses an upgraded version of strings known as the Aquila Super Nylgut strings. A dominant characteristic of these strings is less stretchiness.

Overall this makes it easier for anyone to tune the device whenever they want to. They will also not need to tune it every single time since the strings allow for the tuning to be maintained a bit longer. As well there is cream binding and a walnut fingerboard. You can opt for one of two packages with this instrument. The first comes with a gig bag, and the other comes with a hard carrying case. However, the latter comes at a higher price point than the 100 dollars designated above.

What are its best features?

• Comes with gig bag
• Easy tuning
• Long-lasting and replaceable strings
• Comes with instructional DVD

What could be improved?

• The tuner might be a bit difficult to figure out
• Not the most suitable tool for experienced players
• Some people insist you get more value by spending more and getting the one with a hard case

Another addition to the list is the Lanikai LU-11 Soprano Ukulele. This one is unique in that it uses a different variation of hardwood to the ones you are used to. Nato hardwood is not very common in the west. However, it also comes as a bundle purchase with a few necessary accessories. These include the instructional DVD for beginners, the clip-on tuner, and a polishing cloth, so your instrument always looks pristine. All these can also fit in the gig bag that you are provided with.

What are its best features?

• Comes with a gig bag alongside a select few accessories
• Solid wood used in construction
• Instructional videos for people just starting in the ukulele field

What could be improved?

• Fretboard may need to be filled down
• Some users have complained that it doesn’t stay in tune for extended periods of play

This particular instrument is one that you can get in a variety of color options. The body is made of laminated basswood, so there is little chance of there being any damage to the device from the bumps and bruises of everyday use. However, it is still quite light as compared to most of the other devices listed. Another benefit of owning this device is that it is easy to change strings due to the no-tie bridge. Beginners can use this as their training tool before they switch to more professional equipment when they get better at playing.

Why is it special?

• Lightweight
• Easy to change the strings when they get damaged

What are the flaws?

• Doesn’t come with any accessories
• No warranty