10 Best Banjoleles That Actually Sound Good (2024)

The banjolele, a unique instrument that combines the sound and style of a banjo with the size and playability of a ukulele.

With its distinctive sound and versatile playing capabilities, it has become a very interesting instrument that many players of various genres and skill levels love to try.

In this article, we’ll be talking about the best banjoleles on the market, from some of the most reputable brands in the industry, to other less-known but high-quality options.

I’ve considered factors such as sound quality, playability, and overall value for money to ensure that each banjolele on our list is worth your time and investment.

Aside from that, we’ll go over some of the most frequently asked questions on this topic so that you can go ahead and make a good desicion for your next new instrument.

Top Best Banjoleles

The Oscar Schmidt OUB1 banjolele is an excellent option for beginner and intermediate players looking for a high-quality instrument at an affordable price.

The concert scale and solid hardware, including a 12-bracket cast aluminum tone ring and open-gear tuners with pearloid buttons, make for an enjoyable playing experience.

The mahogany resonator, neck bound rosewood fretboard, and Remo’s head all contribute to the beautiful twangy sound of a banjo with a naturally mellow tone.

The natural satin finish is visually appealing, though it is unfortunate that a case is not included.

One of the standout features of the OUB1 is the ability to remove the resonator for a different sound.

This flexibility allows players to experiment with different styles and preferences.

Additionally, the open-gear tuning system ensures that strings stay in tune for longer playing sessions.

In terms of design and build, the Oscar Schmidt OUB1 is of high quality, using quality materials and precise craftsmanship to ensure that the instrument produces a great sound.

While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, it offers good value for money and a solid mid-range option.

Overall, the Oscar Schmidt OUB1 is an excellent banjolele that combines the ease of ukulele playing with the twangy sound of a banjo.

It’s an excellent choice for those just starting to learn or those looking to upgrade from a beginner instrument.

With a limited lifetime warranty, players can be confident in their investment in this instrument.

• Pros:
  • High-quality materials.
  • Removable resonator.
  • Open-gear tuners.

• Cons:
  • No case included.
  • Not the cheapest.

My final verdict is that the Oscar Schmidt OUB1 banjolele is a great choice for beginner and intermediate players looking for an affordable, high-quality instrument.

It offers great value for money, a beautiful twangy sound, and the flexibility to experiment with different styles and preferences.

With a limited lifetime warranty, players can be confident in their investment in this instrument.

The Banjolele-DLX from Gold Tone is a high-end, concert-scale closed-back banjolele that offers exceptional quality in terms of build and hardware.

Aesthetically, it has a vintage look with an 8″ maple rim, an ebony fretboard with 15 frets, brass hardware, and geared Grover-style tuners.

The one-piece flange and deep-wall resonator provide a rich sound with plenty of volumes and a desired plunky tone.

This model is more expensive than others on the list but is well worth the money for serious banjolele enthusiasts.

Gold Tone is known for its dedication to providing the best quality instruments, and each of its instruments is still inspected by Robyn Rogers herself.

The legacy of Gold-Tone continues today, with the company offering a wide range of banjos, guitars, mandolins, bass, ukuleles, and many other instruments and accessories.

Regarding cons, there aren’t many things that could change about this banjolele, but some people prefer closed gear tuners to open gear tuners.

However, this is a personal preference and doesn’t affect the quality of the instrument.

One of the main pros of this model is that it offers the option to take out the flange and resonator if you prefer that sound.

It also has a truss rod, ensuring that you won’t have any problems with intonation.

The Banjolele-DLX is designed to incorporate an arched top that lends itself to the playing style of George Formby, making it the ultimate Banjolele for Formby lovers.

The neck has binding around it, making sliding up and down the neck smoother and more manageable.

Overall, the tone of this banjolele is exceptional, and it is ready to play right out of the factory.

• Pros:
  • High quality build.
  • Rich sound.
  • Arched top.

• Cons:
  • Closed gear tuners.
  • Expensive.

My final verdict is that the Banjolele-DLX from Gold Tone is a high-quality and well-crafted instrument that offers great tones and is suitable for serious banjolele enthusiasts.

Its vintage look and 8″ maple rim, ebony fretboard, brass hardware, and geared Grover-style tuners, along with its deep-wall resonator, make it a great banjolele for George Formby-style playing.

The fact that you can remove the flange and resonator, as well as the truss rod for intonation, are both great features that make this banjolele worth the higher price tag.

Our featured banjolele is the Goodtime Banjolele from Deering, a premium concert instrument highly sought-after by casual and professional players.

While it may have a higher-end price tag, the popularity of this instrument speaks volumes about its exceptional quality.

One of the standout features of the Goodtime Banjolele is its exquisite craftsmanship. Its unique and beautiful design is sure to impress, with intricate detailing and a quality American-made build that ensures its longevity.

In addition, the slim satin-finished rock maple neck and open-back construction contribute to the banjolele’s lightweight, making it easy to play with for extended periods.

The patented bridge plate is another feature that sets the Goodtime Banjolele apart. It enhances sustain and clarity, producing a clean, precise sound that resonates with power and depth.

This banjolele also boasts an 11″ rim with a three-ply blonde maple ring, a maple/ebony bridge, and a frosted top that contributes to the instrument’s warm, rich tone.

While the Goodtime Banjolele may be a little pricey for beginners, it is undoubtedly an instrument worth aspiring to.

Its exceptional quality, beautiful design, and superior sound make it an excellent investment for those serious about mastering the banjolele.

Overall, the Goodtime Banjolele from Deering is a perfect choice for a premium concert banjolele that delivers exceptional sound quality and unparalleled craftsmanship.

• Pros:
  • Premium craftsmanship.
  • Lightweight design.
  • Patented bridge.

• Cons:
  • Pricey for beginners.

My final verdict is that the Goodtime Banjolele from Deering is an excellent choice for serious players looking for a premium concert banjolele that offers superior sound quality and craftsmanship.

This inexpensive concert banjolele is ideal for those starting – and it comes in an array of vibrant colors like blue, purple, clear, and ruby red.

Users of this banjolele are utterly obsessed with this model’s inspiring feel; mainly, they love the special purple drum head edition that steals the show.

Whether you’re just getting started or have been playing for some time now, we guarantee loads of fun using this dynamic instrument!

Constructed with an 8-inch see-through acrylic rim and a maple neck, the Gold Tone Little Gem offers a standard concert uke size.

It comes equipped with sealed tuners similar to those found on guitars, which help to maintain the instrument’s tuning stability.

However, some users have noted that the overall build quality could be more durable.

On the plus side, it comes with a gig bag with a single shoulder strap for added portability.

One of the best things about the Gold Tone Little Gem is the 5-year warranty, which provides ample time for players to get comfortable with the instrument before wear and tear may set in.

This banjolele’s features make it a great choice for those seeking an affordable and playful option, but if you are looking for a banjolele with a more robust construction, consider other models.

Overall, the Gold Tone Little Gem Banjo Ukulele is a charming and budget-friendly option for beginners and kids who want to play the banjolele.

• Pros:
  • 8-inch acrylic rim.
  • Maple neck.
  • Gig bag included.

• Cons:
  • Build quality could be better.
  • Not for advanced players.
  • Limited durability.

My final verdict is that the Gold Tone Little Gem Banjo Ukulele is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable and playful option for beginners and kids.

However, those looking for a banjolele with a more robust construction should consider other models.

The Luna Ulu Banjolele is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a unique and eye-catching instrument with a sound to match.

This stylish banjolele showcases expert craftsmanship, with its maple back, etched Hawaiian design, and tortoise binding setting it apart from other models.

Additionally, this model is made by Luna – a trusted name in musical instruments – so you can be sure of its quality.

Each one has a mahogany neck, rosewood fingerboard, and chrome hardware to guarantee an excellent sound.

The bright, crisp tone complemented with a twang makes this banjolele versatile and vibrant.

Players have attested to the superior sound quality of this instrument: the strings give it an added brightness which provides just the right amount of twang for an enjoyable playtime experience.

If that isn’t enough, you can always switch out the strings with Aquila Reds for even sweeter tones!

When buying this model, remember that it won’t come with a gig bag or pre-tuned like most concert ukuleles; however, any standard soprano ukulele bag should do the trick and provide added protection during transportation or storage.

Additionally, it comes pre-tuned lower than typical concert ukuleles, which gives it its unique sound.

Overall, you will find no significant issues with the Luna Ulu Banjolele, unless some users might experience slight intonation issues in their model.

In contrast, most complaints would be personal preference-related matters.

With all factors considered, however, such as build quality, sound capabilities, and value for money, this banjolele stands tall above the competition!

• Pros:
  • Unique design.
  • Excellent sound.
  • High quality.

• Cons:
  • No gig bag.
  • Pre-tuned lower.
  • Intonation issues.

My final verdict is that the Luna Ulu Banjolele is an excellent option for anyone looking for a unique and eye-catching instrument with a great sound.

Its craftsmanship, quality, and sound capabilities make it stand out from the competition, and its reasonable price makes it a great value for money.

The only potential issue with this instrument is that some users might experience slight intonation issues, but overall, it is a great choice.

The Vangoa Concert Banjolele is an excellent budget instrument that offers great sound and a full range of features that any musician looking for an affordable yet quality banjo ukulele can appreciate.

The construction is top-notch, with a solid mahogany-like sapele back, sides, and head.

The satin finish adds to the smooth feel and makes it easier to hold while playing.

The top is of low quality as it is covered with thin plastic, but it still delivers the classic banjolele sound – plinky and plunky – even though it promises more depth than most budget instruments.

The purchase includes all you need for the instrument – strap, tuner, adjustment wrench, plectrums, carry case, and pickup for amplification – so you are ready to go straight away!

Moreover, you also get a 2-year warranty just in case something goes wrong. The neck is 23 inches wide and has 18 frets on its walnut fretboard.

Many users like this model because of its crisp sound that differs from other smaller ukuleles.

Installing the bridge might take some time, but the manufacturer provides no instructions.

• Pros:
  • Solid sapele construction.
  • Includes accessories.
  • 2-year warranty.

• Cons:
  • Weak top construction.

My final verdict is that the Vangoa Concert Banjolele is an excellent budget instrument that is well worth the investment.

It offers a great sound quality, solid construction, and all the necessary accessories for a good price.

Although the top is made of thin plastic, it still delivers a classic banjolele sound.

The neck is 23 inches wide and has 18 frets, which provides a crisp sound that differs from other smaller ukuleles.

The 2-year warranty is also a great bonus.

Installing the bridge might take some time, but the lack of instructions is a minor issue.

The AKLOT Banjo Ukulele Concert is a musical instrument that offers exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality, which is why it made our list of the 11 best banjoleles.

Its maple neck and rim has a natural satin finish, making it a stylish appearance pleasing to the eye and comfortable to hold and play with.

The Remo Fiberskyn Drumhead is another feature that sets this banjolele apart from others in its price range, as it produces a full and enriched tone.

One of this banjolele’s most impressive aspects is the package’s advanced tuner. It helps players tune the instrument accurately and keep it in tune while playing.

The AKLOT also has a two-way truss rod that enables players to customize their actions and sanded frets with a hard maple fingerboard, making it easy and comfortable to play.

The package comes with a tuner, ruler, picks, wrench, gig bag, strap, and cleaning cloth, making it an excellent value for money.

The four-stringed instrument also comes with a 2-year warranty, which gives players peace of mind and reassurance that they are investing in a high-quality and reliable product.

The AKLOT Banjo Ukulele Concert has good sound projection thanks to the excellent craftsmanship and materials used in its construction.

In addition, the free accessories included in the package make it an attractive option for beginners or anyone looking for a complete set to get started.

The only downside is that the strings take a few days to settle, but this is a minor inconvenience that doesn’t detract from the overall quality of the product.

• Pros:
  • Stylish appearance.
  • Full enriched tone.
  • Advanced tuner.

• Cons:
  • Strings take time.

My final verdict is that the AKLOT Banjo Ukulele Concert is an excellent choice, offering superior craftsmanship and sound quality, great value for money, and a generous two-year warranty.

The Remo Fiberskyn Drumhead and advanced tuner make the banjolele stand out from others in its price range, while the maple neck and fretboard and truss rod offer comfortable playing.

The only downside is that the strings take a few days to settle, but this is a minor inconvenience.

The KMISE Banjo Ukelele is a great instrument for anyone who wants to start playing the banjolele and intends to keep playing it.

With its durable construction, warm sound, and attractive body and neck design, this banjolele is perfect for beginners and experienced players.

At 23 inches long and weighing 2.6 pounds, this banjolele has no plastic parts.

Instead, it’s made of sapele wood for the back and sides with a rosewood fingerboard, giving it extra warmth on top of its already clean sound.

On top of that, the wider neck makes it easier to play chords than other models, even for beginners.

The Aquila strings come pre-strung with the instrument as well. It’s also possible to mod this model to make it louder by unscrewing some screws at the back, creating a makeshift resonator effect.

I found this unnecessary because it was loud enough, just out of the box.

However, while they might be inexpensive compared to other options, clip-on tuners only work well with this model due to how thick the strings are.

Plus, the strings tend to snap easily, so they need replacing sooner rather than later.

It looks attractive and durable, but its sound is equally impressive – you’ll be charmed by the sweet twang when strumming or fingerpicking chords or single notes.

• Pros:
  • Durable construction.
  • Warm sound.
  • Attractive design.

• Cons:
  • Weak tuners.

My final verdict is that the KMISE Banjo Ukelele is an excellent banjolele for both beginners and experienced players.

It is made of durable materials, has a warm sound, and its wider neck makes it easy to play chords.

The Aquila strings come pre-strung and it can be modified to make a louder sound.

However, clip-on tuners only work well with this model and the strings tend to snap easily.

The Kala 4-String Ukulele Concert Banjo Ukulele is a remarkable musical instrument that offers both quality and beautiful design.

Manufactured by Kala, one of the most popular brands around the world, this model is a high-end instrument that boasts a reasonable price.

The KA BNJ BK C is constructed like a banjo ukulele with the Remo Weather King banjo head that creates a bright sound with ample projection.

In addition, it features an open-back design and an 8″ hoop diameter contributing to the instrument’s sound projection.

One of the standout features of this model is the concert scale length (14-3/4″) and antique brass hardware, providing an enriched and full tone.

On the other hand, the deluxe geared tuners with black buttons and the maple bridge with an ebony cap add to the aesthetic appeal of the instrument.

Musicians can use this model to project sound in ensemble settings and solo performances. It is perfect for live stage work, theater, studio recordings, and more.

The Kala 4-String Ukulele is an excellent choice for a quality banjo ukulele with superb sound and playability.

Although it may be expensive for some, it is a significant investment for anyone looking for a high-quality banjo ukulele that will serve them for years.

• Pros:
  • High-end instrument.
  • Bright sound.
  • Enriched tone.

• Cons:
  • Expensive.

My final verdict is that the Kala 4-String Ukulele Concert Banjo Ukulele is an excellent instrument with a great sound, superb playability, and a beautiful design, making it a worthy investment for anyone looking for a high-quality banjo ukulele that will last for years.

The Gewa Manoa B-CO-M Banjo Ukulele MN is a high-quality banjolele that offers excellent features at an affordable price.

Gewa is a brand known for its quality, and the Gewa Manoa B-CO-M Banjo Ukulele MN is no exception.

The banjolele is designed with excellent playability, and all the experience and expertise that Gewa has acquired over the years are evident in this product.

Moreover, the banjolele’s neck is structured to maximize your playing velocity, and its finish is simply remarkable.

The Gewa Manoa B-CO-M Banjo Ukulele MN is made with high-quality materials, including a closed shell of maple, 12 tension rods, a maple neck, a fingerboard, and 18 bridge nickel silver frets.

The closed shell helps to produce a warm and balanced sound that is perfect for playing in various settings.

The Gewa Manoa B-CO-M Banjo Ukulele MN is an excellent choice for amateur and professional musicians.

Crafted with a focus on playability and speed, its design allows for an exceptional playing experience each time.

• Pros:
  • High quality materials.
  • Excellent playability.
  • Warm sound.

• Cons:
  • None stated.

My final verdict is that the Gewa Manoa B-CO-M Banjo Ukulele MN is an excellent product that offers great features at an affordable price.

It is made with high-quality materials and is designed with excellent playability.

Its closed shell produces a warm and balanced sound that is perfect for playing in various settings.

The banjolele is an ideal choice for both amateur and professional musicians.

In this video, you will find many of the best banjoleles that we mentioned in this list, so you can hear how each one sounds and draw your conclusions about it:

Review: Banjo Ukes from Deering, Kala, Luna, Gold Tone, and Magic Fluke

What is a banjolele and how is it different from a regular ukulele?

A banjolele, also known as a banjo ukulele, is a musical instrument that combines the size and tuning of a ukulele with the distinctive sound of a banjo.

It typically has a more petite body and a shorter scale length than a traditional banjo, making it easier to hold and play.

The banjolele’s body is often made of wood, with a drum-like head of animal skin or synthetic material stretched across it.

The instrument is usually played with a pick rather than fingerpicking and has a distinctively bright, plucky sound.

One of the key differences between a banjolele and a regular ukulele is the construction of the body.

A ukulele usually has a hollow body made of wood, while a banjolele has a drum-like head that gives it a brighter, more resonant sound.

In addition, the head is generally made of synthetic materials, such as Mylar or Remo, or natural materials, such as goat or calf skin.

Another significant difference between a banjolele and a ukulele is how they are played.

While ukuleles are commonly strummed with the fingers or a pick, banjoleles are often played with fingerpicks, as the smaller size of the instrument can make it challenging to achieve a full sound with just the fingers.

The banjolele’s shorter scale length also makes it possible to play chords and melodies more quickly and with more agility than on a traditional banjo.

Despite their differences, the banjolele and the ukulele share a similar tuning.

Ukulele VS Banjolele | Instrument Review: Similarities and Differences

The standard tuning for a banjolele is GCEA, the same as the top four strings of a ukulele.

This means that ukulele players can easily switch to a banjolele without learning new tuning or chord shapes.

In terms of musical style, the banjolele is often associated with folk, bluegrass, and early jazz music.

However, it has also been used in popular music, particularly during the ukulele boom of the 1920s and 1930s.

In summary, a banjolele is a hybrid musical instrument that combines the size and tuning of a ukulele with the bright, brave sound of a banjo.

It has a drum-like head that gives it a resonant sound and is usually played with fingerpicks.

While it shares a tuning with a regular ukulele, the banjolele has a unique sound and is particularly well-suited for folk, bluegrass, and early jazz music.

What should you consider when choosing a banjolele?

When choosing a banjolele, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you select the instrument that best fits your needs and preferences.

Here are some of the most critical considerations:

Budget/money you’re willing to spend

When it comes to purchasing a banjolele, it’s important to keep in mind that the price of these instruments can vary significantly.

Therefore, before embarking on your banjolele shopping journey, it is crucial to determine your budget.

By considering your budget, you can search for a banjolele that fits within your price range and meets your quality expectations.

This approach can help you avoid overspending and ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

When determining your budget, it’s important to consider how much you are willing to invest in a banjolele.

This means that depending on your level of expertise, you may want to invest more in a higher-quality instrument that can provide better sound quality and durability over time.

Sound that you want to achieve

As obvious as it might sound, different banjoleles can produce different tones.

Choosing an instrument that produces the sound that suits your musical style and preferences can have a significant impact on your overall playing experience.

When choosing a banjolele, it’s important to consider the tone of the instrument.

For example, some banjoleles will produce a brighter sound, while others could produce a warmer tone.

Brighter tones can be ideal for playing bluegrass and folk music, while warmer tones are more suited for jazz and blues.

To determine what tone you prefer, you may want to try out different banjoleles and listen to the sound they produce, or maybe even just watch YouTube videos about it.

This can give you an idea of the kind of tone you’re looking for and help you make an informed decision.

It’s essential to look for an instrument that can produce the tone you desire.

This may mean considering the materials used in the construction of the banjolele, such as the type of wood used for the body and the quality of the strings.

Size of the instrument

Banjoleles can come in a variety of sizes, and selecting one that is comfortable for you to play can make a significant difference in your playing experience.

The size of the banjolele can depend on factors such as the scale length, body size, and weight.

I would say it’s very essential to consider your body size and the size of your hands when choosing one.

If you have larger hands or a larger body frame, you may want to look for a larger-sized banjolele.

Now, on the other hand, if you have smaller hands or a smaller body frame, a smaller-sized banjolele may be a better fit.

In addition to body size, it’s important to choose a banjolele that feels good to hold and play.

This can include considering the weight of the instrument, the size and shape of the neck, and the spacing of the strings.

Materials used

The materials used to make the instrument can have a significant impact on its sound quality and durability.

Understanding the materials used in a banjolele can help you make an informed decision and choose an instrument that meets your needs and preferences.

One of the most important materials to consider is the body of the banjolele.

Banjoleles can be made from a variety of materials, including wood and synthetic materials.

Wooden banjoleles can provide a warmer, more traditional sound, while synthetic banjoleles can offer a brighter, more modern tone.

The type of wood used in the construction of the banjolele can also impact the sound quality, with mahogany, maple, and walnut being popular choices.

Another essential component of the banjolele is the drum-like head.

The head can be made from materials such as Mylar, Remo, goat, or calfskin, each of which can impact the sound quality and durability of the instrument.

Mylar and Remo are synthetic materials that can offer a bright and punchy sound, while goat and calfskin heads can provide a warmer, more traditional tone.

Brand and quality

This is another obvious one, but it has to be mentioned…

It’s very important to choose a reputable brand with a history of producing quality instruments.

Selecting a well-made banjolele from a reputable brand can ensure that you’re investing in an instrument that will last a long time and provide a high-quality playing experience.

Reputable brands are typically known for their attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and use of high-quality materials.

These brands often have a reputation for producing instruments that are well-constructed and built to last, but can also offer other benefits.

For example, many reputable brands offer warranties on their instruments, providing you with peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected.

Additionally, these brands often have a strong customer support team that can help you with any questions or concerns you may have about your instrument.

Accessories included

Some banjoleles come with cases, picks, and straps included, while others may require you to purchase these items separately.

Understanding the importance of these accessories and whether they are included with the instrument you are considering can help you make an informed decision.

A case, for example, is an essential accessory for a banjolele as it protects the instrument during transport and storage.

Some banjoleles come with cases included, while others may require you to purchase a case separately.

If you plan to travel with your banjolele or play it in different locations, a case is a must-have accessory.

Are banjoleles suitable for beginners?

Banjoleles can be a good choice for beginners interested in playing the ukulele or the banjo.

They offer a unique sound that differs from both instruments and can be fun and rewarding to learn.

One of the advantages of the banjolele is its smaller size and lighter weight, which can make it easier to hold and play for beginners, especially for younger or smaller players.

The shorter scale length of the banjolele can make it easier to play chords and melodies more quickly and with more agility than on a traditional banjo.

Also, its distinctive sound, with its bright and plucky tone, can also appeal to beginners since it’s honestly so much fun to play around with.

Can I use regular ukulele strings on a banjolele?

When it comes to stringing a banjolele, there are a few factors to consider.

First, while it may be tempting to use regular ukulele strings on a banjolele, it is generally not recommended.

One reason is that banjoleles typically require strings with a higher tension than ukuleles.

This is because the drum-like head of a banjolele produces a lot of volume, and higher tension strings can help prevent the head from vibrating too much and distorting the sound.

Conversely, regular ukulele strings, usually of lower tension, can produce a weak and muted sound.

Another factor to consider is the material of the strings. Banjolele strings are typically made of nylon or fluorocarbon, with a brighter and crisper sound than the gut or nylon strings used on traditional ukuleles.

On the other hand, regular ukulele strings are fabricated from nylon or a nylon/fluorocarbon blend, which may provide a different bright and clear sound than banjolele strings are known for.

It’s also worth noting that different types of banjoleles may require other strings.

For example, open-back banjoleles typically require lighter strings with a lower tension. In contrast, resonator banjoleles, which have a metal plate on the back, may require heavier strings to produce a stronger sound.

In summary, it may be possible to use regular ukulele strings on a banjolele, but it is generally not recommended.

This is because banjoleles require strings with higher tension and a different material to produce their distinctive sound.

Therefore, it’s important to consider the type of banjolele you have and consult a professional or experienced player to determine the best strings for your instrument.