In light of recent development in guitar pickups and preamplifier devices, the number of the ukulele has surged with an abundance of assisting gears. This adorable travel instrument can now support various purposes: from recording in the studios, performing on stage, trying flexible effects or forming a Hawaiian heavy metal rock band. Because of that, you might consider doing some research about the best electric ukulele available in town.
Brands and manufacturers have quickly become noticed of the market’s needs and invested in new models and technologies every year. However, an overwhelming number of options might, well, overwhelm the players. Aware of that situation, let’s take a look at a well-screened list of the best electric ukulele by us alongside a pretty detailed guideline on what to expect when purchasing and owning an electric uke.
In case you just started your music path, these references might be worth having a look.
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best electric ukulele Comparison 2023
| Luna High Tide Koa | Epiphone Les Paul Ukulele | Mahalo Euk-200 | Vorson FSUK1BK | Cordoba 20CM-E Tenor |
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Best for stylish players |
Best for starters |
High-end, best overall |
Best electric natures |
Best for budget buyers |
** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the best electric ukulele, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Detailed Reviews Of Top best electric ukulele
Epiphone Les Paul
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Top: Maple
- Scale Length: 15” ( Concert)
- Pickups: Piezo
- No. of strings: 4
The first candidate when it comes to the best electric ukulele guitar is the Epiphone Les Paul ukulele. Possessing the iconic Les Paul shape with Gibson quality and solid mahogany body, this acoustic-electric also takes after the design of the early Epiphone guitar, which is incredibly stunning.
Featuring a scale length of 15 inches and an AAA flamed maple top, the sound it makes is absolutely amazing, not to mention its top quality 14:1 nickel machine heads hardware.
The under-saddle Piezo pickups system also offers somewhat more acoustic-like sounds and tones while being able to amplify as an electric instrument. Its setup and action at the strings are just fine, the tuners look quite nostalgic. Plus, the Les Paul ukulele can stay perfectly balanced when performing and is not overly heavy. Probably you can not ask for more at this price. To sum up, this is an ideal affordable option for starters. Though some say that you might soon outgrow it.
Now who needs a whole traditional guitar to rock the Les Paul?
- Pros
Things we liked
- Solid body
- Les Paul body with Gibson quality
- Piezo pick-up
Caramel CC100 Zebrawood
Specifications:
- Body: Zebrawood
- Top: Rosewood
- Scale Length: 14 ⅞” (Concert)
- Controls: Bass, Middle, Treble
- Tuner: Chromatic with LCD Display
- No. of strings: 4 Italian Aquila
- Frets: 18
Featuring a concert scale with a 18-fret fingerboard, the CC100 offers more acoustic sounds rather than electric, suitable for players who want to bring warm traditional melodies to stages. The body is made with Zebrawood, and it comes in a lovely color. Hence, few people can tell it supports electric pickups at first glance.
The strings possess high quality Italian Aquila, which might take you a while to get started, but once stretched it brings beautiful tones. The fun part is that it offers a chromatic tuner with an LCD color display and 3 band EQ controls, giving the player the ability to modify the tone to his own preference with no effort. You should be notified if batteries go low as well.
With just 18 frets, the CC100 should be comfortable enough to handle and perform. Plus, it is pretty lightweight so you won’t need a strap. I mean who would have a strap for a ukulele anyway.
Like the Les Paul above, this instrument is very newbie-friendly and affordable.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Offers quality sound (both acoustically and electronically)
- Affordable
- Built-in chromatic tuner included
- Lightweight
Ibanez UEW15E Flamed Mahogany $$$
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Top: Mahogany
- Scale Length: 15” (Concert)
- Pickups: Ibanez Undersaddle
- Tuner: Grover Chrome Open Gear
- No. of strings: 4 Ibanez Aquila
- Frets: 19
An option from the honorable brand of Ibanez. Featuring a cutaway EW body and higher tier construction, this one is a little expensive but totally worth it. With a flamed mahogany body and solid top, the instrument offers amazing natural sound with great resonance thanks to the piezoelectric pickup system. The output sound should be as stunning and authentic as the strings produce.
Its string set by Aquila is the version they designed in collaboration with Ibanez themselves, ensuring top-notch quality.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Cutaway body providing great comfort
- Solid top
- Great depth & natural tone.
Luna High Tide Koa
Specifications:
- Body: Koa
- Top: Koa
- Scale Length: 15” (Concert)
- Pickups: Piezo, 3 band EQ preamp
- No. of string: 4
- Frets: 20
Koa, native in Hawaii, is literally born for ukuleles. This tonewood offers both a lovely look and beautiful sounds for the instrument. Luna has utilized this wood as much as they can and made the model with quality like nowhere else. You should also be impressed by its almost flawless construction.
The fine Piezo pickups ensure every sound this uke makes is transmitted authentically to the output device. No need to worry about anything when purchasing this since it has received countless positive feedbacks and reviews.
This is absolutely the best electric ukulele for players with great taste and style.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Solid Top
- Value-based price
- Traditional acoustic tone
- Great playability
Mahalo Euk-200
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Top: Rosewood
- Scale length: 15” (Concert)
- Pickups: Piezo, active preamp
- Frets: 18
- No. of strings: 4 Aquila Uke
- Extra: Aux in, headphone out
Next up is a special looking option with a completely solid body, I mean no hollow at all. Featuring a unique design with aesthetic cut-throughs that will satisfy any player with good taste and make it easier to handle, the sounds it provides are also out of this world.
However, like many other electric guitars, these sounds might not be as original and acoustic-like as other options on this list. Hence, as I said, this is more suitable for player with a somewhat extra style.
The Mahalo Euk leans toward an electric uke rather than an acoustic one. It possesses an active preamp and a nylon Aquila string set for amazing intonations. Featuring an auxiliary input and a headphone output, this Mahalo is perfect for jamming sessions or practicing in your bedroom. You should find this very enjoyable to play with.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- No hum
- Aux In, headphone output
Things we did not like
- Not very flexible in sounds
Kmise Concert
Specifications:
- Top: Solid Spruce
- Scale length: 15” (Concert)
- Frets: 18
- No. of strings: 4 Aquila
- Controls: 3 band EQ
Possessing stunning design, this hybrid uke by Kmise shall impress you by its look and quality compared to its dirt cheap price tag. Engraved with lovely flowers, the instrument should look good on a music-loving nomad.
Thanks to its solid spruce top, the Kmise Concert offers great resonance along with amazing sustainability. The sounds it makes are bright and full with strong vibrations as it is equipped with high quality strings by the honorable Italy brand of Aquila.
The 9V pre-amp and 3 band EQ controls make it effortless for the player to adjust the tones to his own preference. The built-in tuner also provides lossless transmission when paired with a quality amp.
In general, if you are not sure a uke is a suitable and enjoyable hobby for you, then this Kmise Concert does not cost much to try.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Lightweight and highly portable
- 3 band EQ controls supporting bass, middle, treble
- Incredibly cheap
- Built-in tuner included
Caramel CS419
Specifications:
- Body: Solid mahogany
- Top: Solid mahogany
- Scale Length: 13” (Soprano)
- Controls: 3 band EQ
- Frets: 15
Caramel quality cannot be challenged by any other brands in this price range. Its solid top, back and side are normally only available in premium costly instruments.
The specifications are not less comprehensive than those options above. The Caramel CS419 also offers built-in pickups and preamp, 3 band EQ tuner supporting bass, middle and treble.
Added values are a padded gig bag for storage, guitar strap, picks, cable, etc. For starters, investing in this one is totally a no brainer.
The only downside of the instrument is the thin acoustic sound it produces, but it is understandable given its Soprano size.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Solid from top to body
- Dirt cheap
- Built-in pickups
- Extra accessories provided
Things we did not like
- Thin acoustic sounds
San Dona Concert Kit
Specifications:
- Top: Spruce
- Scale length: 15” (Concert)
- Frets: 18
- Pickups: under saddle
- No. of strings: 4 Aquila
This is probably the best electric ukulele starter pack out there for you. With a competitive price, the values this pack offers are incredible since it comes with a strap, a quality padded gig bag, an extra set of strings and a clip-on guitar tuner.
The exotic Zebrano back and sides of this uke makes the player as stunning as the instrument itself on stage. Featuring a handcrafted construction, every detail on this San Dona will impress even the most difficult customers.
With an 18-fret white bass fingerboard, this admirable ukulele is heaven on your fingertips since it offers a comfortable fretboard for an enjoyable experience.
Included in the kit also comes an electronic digital tuner to make sure that the instrument always remains in tune during your performances. Equipped with an award-winning under saddle pickups system and a miniature endpin preamp, the sound it brings is incomparably beautiful.
Definitely take this package into consideration when looking for your best electric ukulele.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Value bundle
- Humble price tag
- Varies in multiple colors & custom designs
Cordoba SG Style
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Top: Mahogany
- Scale length: 13” (Soprano)
- Frets: 19
- Pickups: passive pickup
- Controls: 2 way switching volume
- No. of strings: 4 Aquila
The next candidate is a solid guitar style uke from Cordoba. With only more than a hundred bucks, you can have for yourself a royal looking electric ukulele with a deep cherry red finish. Although being a little heavy because of not having a hollow body, it is still an amazing instrument for practicing and performing on stage. Its soprano size shall provide great balance and comfort for the player to handle with little effort.
Featuring 2 passive pickups and 2 way switching volume controls, adjusting its tone has never been easier. The quality mahogany that makes up the body also offers heavenly resonance as you play.
The strings are, once again, from the honorable string maker of Aquila. The uke comes with a quality soprano-sized padded gig bag to prevent your precious from damages as well.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Soprano size
- Solid electric body
- Affordable
Fender Ricon
Specifications:
- Body: laminate ovangkol
- Top: solid ovangkol
- Scale length: 17” (Tenor)
- Frets: 19
Wait no more, here comes your favorite brand of Fender. It features an onboard Fishman Kula pre-amp, ensuring every sound is picked up and transmitted authentically. Few people can tell this is an electric instrument at first glance thanks to the classic adorable vintage design. The Fender Ricon offers heavenly resonance because of its laminate ovangkol body topped with a solid ovangkol soundboard. Other specifications consist of a no-tie bridge, bone nut and saddle and a stunning looking abalone rosette.
The Tenor scale length of 17 inches also enables larger hands to play more comfortably. Overall, this is a relatively affordable tenor from a popular manufacturer.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Tenor style, suitable for larger hands
- Roomy fretboard
- Solid top
Cordoba 20TM-CE
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Top: Solid
- Scale Length: 17” (Tenor)
- Frets: 18
- Pickups: 2 band EQ
- No. of strings: 4
Another uke from Cordoba with its handmade quality. The Cordoba 20TM-CE is an entry-level choice for vintage lovers. Featuring a classic look, it offers the exotic vibe of Portugal with a natural satin finish. Thanks to the solid top and mahogany tonewood, it is no surprise that the resonance and sound of this instrument shall enchant anyone with good taste. The bridge and fretboard are made of rosewood, ensuring the best experience. Similar to the Fender above, tenor size is suitable for players with larger hands.
The sounds offer an amazing depth thanks to an own-brand built in house 2 band EQ Cordoba pickups systems.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Solid top
- Tenor style, suitable for larger hands
- Wholesome resonance
Fender Grace VanderWaal Zuma Signature
Specifications:
- Body: Sapele
- Top: Sapele
- Scale length: 15” (Concert)
- Fretboard: Walnut
- Frets: 16
- Pickups: Fishman Kula
- No. of strings: 4
The second Fender of the list. The first feature you will notice in this uke is the Telecaster headstock design, depending on your familiarity with the traditional Telecaster design, this could be an advantage or a downside.
Possessing a Fishman Kula pickup system, this is a plus when compared to other competitors in this price range with average preamp pickups.
The tonewood material of Sapele also offers quality resonance and sound. The Fender Grace VanderWaal Signature is equipped with walnut fretboard and bridge a sealed nicked tuning machine as well, ensuring the best comfort and flexibility.
The instrument receives countless compliments on its plugged-in tone and its playability. However, some complain that it lacks punch when it comes to unplugged performance. In general, this is a very appreciated option from Fender.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Fender quality
- Telecaster design
- Stunning look
Things we did not like
- Lack of punch when performed unplugged
Moozica Electric Concert Ukulele
Specifications:
- Body: Solid Flame Maple
- Top: Solid Flame Maple
- Pickups: Active EQ
- Controls: 1 volume 1 tone with battery
- Frets: 20
- No. of strings: 4 nylon strings
Featuring a modern but elegant design, this no hollow electric ukulele definitely worth taking a look. Made from quality flame maple, the instrument offers a beautiful appearance and great resonance effect, not to mention decorative acacia koa wood at the side. They apply the technique of Piano Lacquer Finish crafting into the finish of the model, proving a unique, glossy and smoothie surface.
Thanks to its built-in active pickup systems, this uke is capable of maintaining the familiar traditional sounds of uke while also allowing the player to sculpt the effect by adjusting the tone knobs. You want something with aesthetic design then this is the best electric ukulele for you.
- Pros
Things we liked
- Closed body
- Unparalleled design
- Versatile
- Fair price
Vorson FSUK1BK
Specifications:
- Body: Candlenut
- Top: Candlenut
- Scale length: 17” (Tenor)
- Pickups: 2 single coil
- Controls: 3 way switch, tone and volume control
- Frets: 19
- No. of strings: 4
This Vorson FSUK1 leans complete toward the natures of an electric instrument, hence, it is nothing like your common acoustic or acoustic-electric uke. It is initially designed to be more like an electric guitar in the scale and comfortability of a ukulele.
Featuring a pickup system of two magnetic single coil, the sounds and tones it makes are very similar to an electric guitar. With that being said, if you just want a traditional uke and amplify it, this is not for you. But if you want something novel and cool, you might consider this one. It is reviewed to be able to replace a whole full-sized expensive electric guitar under some circumstances with its ability to have effects and electric sounds. Check it out and break limits and norms with this truly best electric ukulele.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Novel design
- Electric guitar in the size of a uke
Things we did not like
- Not suitable for producing traditional acoustic sounds and tones
Lohanu Spalted Maple
Specifications:
- Body: Spalted Maple
- Top: Spalted Maple
- Scale length: 15” (Concert)
- Frets: 18
- No. of strings: 4 Aquila
Wrapping up the list, feast your eye on another incredible looking uke from Lohanu. Made of spalted maple from top to body, sides and back, the resonance the instrument produces is perfect. This concert size uke also features a special beveled armrest, making the appearance even more valuable.
The back possesses a somewhat arched profile, adding more resonance effect to the sounds you create. This uke comes in a bundle like some above, with a strap, padded gig bag, an extra set of quality Aquila string just in case and a tuner. There’s nothing left to ask at this price range. The plugged in tone received dozens of positive feedback as well.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Eye-catching look
- Quality plugged-in tone
- Great playability
Things we did not like
- Fret buzz is reported sometimes
Buying Guide for Best 3/4 Electric Guitar
Size types of ukuleles
Ukuleles usually come in four different sizes and ranges of tones which are Soprano, Concert, Tenor, and Baritone. Understanding these differences shall help you choose your best electric ukulele later down below.
The Soprano type is the standard version, possessing the tiniest scale length of 13” and 21” overall length. Therefore, this is the perfect type for smaller players.
The Concert, the next biggest size, has a scale length of 15” and the overall length of 23”. Its sounds are normally deeper and louder than the original Soprano, but still somewhat familiar.
For larger hands, the Tenor type is a more suitable version. Its 17” scale length and 26” overall length offers a deeper and more resonant sound with a more comfortable fretboard.
The largest member of the family, the Baritone, stretching 19” in scale length and 30” in overall length, is able to produce deeper bass sounds and tones. The tuning of Baritone is similar to the four highest strings on a guitar, making it a perfect alternative for guitar players.
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Size Type |
Scale |
Overall Length |
Tuning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soprano (standard) | 13 inches | 21 inches | G4-C4-E4-A4 or A4-D4-F#4-B4 |
| Concert | 15 inches | 23 inches | G4-C4-E4-A4, A4-D4-F#4-B4, or G3-C4-E4-A4 |
| Concert | 17 inches | 26 inches | G3-C4-E4-A4, G4-C4-E4-A4, A4-D4-F#4-B4, or D4-G3-B3-E4 |
| Baritone | 19 inches | 30 inches | D3-G3-B3-E4 |
Ukulele Woods
One of the most crucial factors to take into consideration is what kind of wood the instrument is made from since the tone acoustic and acoustic-electric uke is strongly affected by the construction materials.
In general, better quality ukuleles are constructed with solid wood, whilst cheaper lines are made with laminated wood which consists of a few layers of thin wood. The body wood does not affect the tone of the instrument as much as the wood that builds the top; hence, in some models, you may find the top made of solid tonewood like cedar or spruce while the body is made with laminates.
Laminated woods offer better durability and are less likely to crack or split under conditions such as cold dry climates. Also, the tone of laminates tends to remain the same while ukuleles with solid wood, similar to other instruments with strings, can become yellower as time flies, making the tone richer.
Like guitars, ukulele can be made of various tonewoods. Popular woods are Mahogany, Spruce, Cedar, Redwood, Rosewood, Ovangkol and Maple. Additionally, Koa and Acacia, tropical woods that are native to the Islands of Hawaii, are also commonly used.
Ukulele Tuning
Although you may tune your instrument in almost any style you wish, there comes several standards that might come in handy.
For Tenor, Soprano, or Concert Ukuleles, the tunes are often G C E A while they usually tune the Baritone in D G B E, similar to the four highest strings on a standard full-sized guitar.
Another alternative on Soprano and Concert ukes is A D F# B and this style produce extra mellow sounds while keeping fretting chords relatively easy to perform.
You should do some digging in tuning, for different sets of strings might be supposed to have different proper tuning styles.
Acoustic-electric Ukulele
Other than the traditional acoustic ukulele, just like guitars, the market offers a type with electronic pickups to convert the instrument’s vibration to signals that then are transmitted to an output sound system, called the acoustic-electric ukulele.
This upgrade is suitable for players who still prefer the authentic natural sounds of traditional uke but have a need to amplify its sounds for band performances. You know, sometimes a micro can not deliver the sounds that well.
Besides that, some special ukuleles may consist of 6 or 8 strings, making it an ideal alternative to a travel-sized guitar.
Build types of ukes
About the build types of the instrument, ukuleles reflect quite similar traits to guitars. They’re just smaller in size.
Electric guitars can have a solid or a hollow body. So do electric ukuleles.
Since this article is about electric ukes, we shall focus on that type a little bit more.
Electric ukes look just like a full-size electric guitar whose body is solid and the pickups are installed on the outside. Whereas, an acoustic-electric uke shares more traits of a standard acoustic instrument, it just includes a pickup system and some electronics details to make it compatible with an additional amplifier. You could consider the acoustic electric as a hybrid type since they are versatile and support more flexibility in style. Let’s not be confused right here.
Now hollow body and solid body ukes have several major differences. Hollow body ukes produce the sound just like a standard acoustic instrument. You can pair it with an extra amplifier or not, the sounds remain stunning. On the other hand, a solid body requires an amp to deliver melodies authentically. You might play the solid on its own but the sounds can not resonate as beautifully as a hollow body. However it should be a better fit to bands since they support more gain and volume. You just need some extra gears to make the best out of it.
Being aware of those knowledge will help a lot when it comes to your best electric ukuleles.
Piezo and Soundboard transducers
The two common types of ukulele pickups you should see in the specifications section of your instruments are piezo and soundboard transducer. Since soundboard transducers offer more authentic sounds and tones than piezos, they are relatively pricier.
However, the difference between the two types is not that much of a problem during live performances and which type it is cannot indicate the overall quality of an instrument.
Active and passive pickups
These two terms might come up quite often when you are looking for your best electric ukulele. To simplify, passive pickup systems offer weaker electric signals whereas active pickups produce stronger ones.
Therefore, a ukulele with passive pickups usually needs an additional boost to produce signals strong enough to be amplified, while on the other hand, active pickups already possess a built-in power source (battery).
How to take good care of your electric ukulele?
Despite possessing precise builds and complex electronic designs, these instruments do not require much effort to take care of (actually not very different from a traditional acoustic uke). You just need to pay attention to the batteries and replace them in time.
It is best practice to store the uke in a case when moving around to prevent damages since musical instruments are pretty fragile, especially the tuners and built-in electronics. In some regions, the climate, temperature and air humidity should more or less affect the wood quality, so paying extra attention to the storage is recommended.
You can refer to the video below for a better understanding of how to take care of your uke:
How to examine your new electric ukulele?
Before purchasing a musical instrument, it is best practice to inspect the product carefully, at least to see if it fits you or not. It is perfect if you have access to a physical store, but in case you have to place an order online, you may read the reviews and feedback carefully (and maybe return and refund policies as well). One should never be too careful.
Hold the uke in your hands and in performing positions to see if you are comfortable with its weight, shape, and design. Afterall, first-hand experience is the best indicator. Then take a closer look and make sure there are no scratches, loose screws, or spaces between joints. A slightest space wide enough to insert a name card in might be the sign of poor manufacturing. Check the tuners to see if they can be easily modified, but not too loose as well. You may try playing some notes with and without the amp to feel the sounds and tones.
In this part, you might want to ignore the price tag since it is naive to live or die by price (or by brands as well). There are various brands providing quality models with an affordable tag as much as there are vendors selling average guitars for a ridiculous amount of money.
No need to rush here, inspect the instrument as much as you have to. Many guitar players found it easier to be introduced to the path by a small playable uke rather than a full-sized guitar right away. Therefore a perfect uke definitely worth your time now.
Final Thoughts of best electric ukulele
With all the information above about types of uke sizes, pickups and well-selected ukulele, plus you have an idea about the style that you want, choosing your best electric ukulele should not be too much of a pain anymore.
Don’t leave yet, we still have a roundup for you and some extra tips below. Keep on reading.
Out of the 15 options listed above, these following are our highly recommended picks which are perfect if you happen to be a noob, a budget customer, or simply just a music lover. However, these are my personal preferences after all, so don’t worry too much if you happen to like something else other than these models below.
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|
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|
|
|
Best for stylish players |
Best for starters |
High-end, best overall |
Best electric natures |
Best for budget buyers |
Extra Tip:
- A standard guitar amplifier can be used with your best electric ukulele without causing any compatibility problems. However, there are brands that produce specialized smaller/ mini-sized amps for ukuleles, making them perfect to bring along.
- Some models offer replaceable strings so you are able to upgrade them later to your own preference.
- Given the portable size of the uke, a uke strap is usually not that much of a big deal. But there are various options you may consider to decorate your instrument with one as well.
What are your choices for best electric ukulele? Comment below and let Carroll / Fletcher.net know.
See more best seller of electric ukulele on Amazon and find the best option for you here!
Thank you for reading this far! I hope that the information provided in this article will be helpful to you.
- Don’t forget to share your thoughts about best electric ukulele at the comment box below!
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