As a beginner, you will most likely choose an inexpensive instrument to start your ukulele journey. That’s fine! However, you will also have to decide which size is right for you. Flight offers great ukuleles for beginners in all four main sizes (or “scales”):
Soprano: With only 53 cm from head to tail and 12–15 frets, sopranos are the smallest (and most portable!) members of the ukulele family. Often called “standard” in the Hawaiian motherland, sopranos have that classic sound immediately associated with the ukulele, making them the most popular among beginners.
Concert: They might be only 10% larger than sopranos, but concert ukuleles are louder, warmer in tone, and definitely easier to play if you have large hands. Plus, the larger neck (typically with 15–18 frets) allows concerts to reach higher notes than sopranos. Weird, we know.
Tenor: Larger still in size and volume, tenors are arguably the most versatile member of the ukulele family. Sporting up to 19 frets, a tenor can do everything a concert can, and then some. Tenors are especially well-suited for trying alternate tunings, making them especially attractive for solo playing.
Baritone: The largest members of the ukulele family, baritones are usually tuned like the four top strings of a guitar, making them perfect for guitar players who wish to step into the ukulele world without having to relearn all the chords. Due to its size (74 cm), baris have a very warm sound that reminds you of a classical guitar.