What Are the Different Sizes of Ukuleles?

A rose by any other name would smell just as sweet, or something like that...right? Well, in the world of ukuleles, there are four basic sizes of uke, ranging from soprano to baritone. Each one has their own advantages and disadvantages, and if you're just learning how to play the ukulele or want to know how to choose your first ukulele, here's a little rundown on each of them:



Soprano Ukulele

This is arguably the most popular size of ukulele, or maybe just the most well-known. Starting around the 1920s and 30s, the ukulele became wildly popular in the United States, and most folks who played had a soprano ukulele. 

My first ukulele was actually a sweet little Kala soprano ukulele, and I played that thing for hours every day. It was easy to hold, sounded beautiful, and had a light, sweet tone to it. Sopranos are pretty easy to carry with you, and with the right strings, they sound wonderful. 

Soprano Ukulele Specs:
Size: About 20 inches
Scale length: About 14 frets (there are some soprano ukes with longer necks, and those are a whole different animal)
Tuning: Usually gCEA (re-entrant tuning)

Concert Ukulele Specs:
Size: About 22-23 inches
Scale length: About 18 frets
Tuning: Usually gCEA (re-entrant tuning)

Tenor Ukulele Specs:
Size: About 26 inches
Scale length: About 18 frets
Tuning: gCEA (high g re-entrant) or GCEA (low G); these ukes also come in a variety of string configurations including 5 string, 6 string, and 8 string

Baritone Ukulele Specs:
Size: About 30 inches (almost the same size as a 1/2 guitar)
Scale length: About 19 frets
Tuning: Usually DGBE like the top four strings of a guitar, but can also be tuned with a low G, GCEA like a tenor uke; these ukes also come in a variety of string configurations including 6 string and 8 string.

As the ukes get larger, their tone gets more mellow. Smaller ukes have a light bright tone, larger ukes with longer necks will be a little bit deeper in tone. Play around with some different sizes of ukulele at your local music shop, or if that's not possible, you can always check out some reviews on YouTube. Have fun!


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