We’ve offered plenty of tips on choosing ukuleles and accessories, and now it’s time to explore some options concerning where to buy a ukulele.

As this fantastic little instrument is very popular, you’ve got many choices to consider. Each one comes with unique pros and cons to keep in mind! For example, buying a ukulele can be a budget-friendly endeavor, or you can spend more than $1,000 and outfit yourself like a pro.

Buying a Ukulele on Amazon

Amazon

Amazon is a great place to find just about anything, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint in the ukulele department. There are lots of instruments to choose from, plus a huge array of cases, strings, and other accessories.

Pros

Huge selection of ukuleles at every price point
Many high-quality ukuleles are offered at a discount
Most major manufacturers offer ukuleles via Amazon
Many ukuleles come as package deals complete with a case, instruction book, and other add-ons
All ukulele sizes are available
Unique pineapple ukuleles, banjoleles, and electric ukuleles are easy to find
Most of the ukuleles available on Amazon have been reviewed by others who have purchased them, making it fairly easy to purchase with confidence
Most sellers offer returns in case you’re not happy with the ukulele you received
Free shipping is often available

Cons

Some ukuleles are poorly made
Some sellers are not trustworthy
Shipping can sometimes be expensive

Buying a Ukulele on eBay

Like Amazon, eBay is a fantastic place to find unusual things, including some pretty incredible ukuleles. Many of the ukuleles found on eBay are used, although it is possible to find new ones. You’ll want to read the description carefully, look at the photos, and check out the seller’s reputation, particularly if you are interested in buying a rare or expensive instrument.

Pros

You can find interesting, unique ukuleles including antiques when you shop on eBay
eBay sellers are rated and reviewed, making it easier to guess whether you’re dealing with someone who is reputable
It is often possible to get a great deal on a good, gently used ukulele
It is fairly easy to find a ukulele in the size and finish that you prefer
Many reputable sellers offer returns in the event that you’re unhappy with your purchase
Free shipping is often available

Cons

Some ukuleles are damaged
Some sellers are not trustworthy
Shipping can be sometimes be expensive

Buying a Ukulele on Craigslist / Facebook Marketplace

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Depending on your location, you may be able to find a good ukulele on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace without paying a lot of money for it. But be sure to take care with your purchase, and never go to a stranger’s home or a deserted location to look at a ukulele that you’re considering or to make a purchase. We won’t go into the frightening details, but people have been robbed, injured and even killed during transactions with strangers. Meet in a well-lit public place if you decide to do business with someone you’ve just met online.

Pros

You can sometimes find unique, interesting ukuleles, including antiques
You can often get a good deal and save money

Cons

Scammers are out there, and so are criminals looking for victims. Be careful!
You probably won’t be able to return the ukulele if you don’t like it

Buying a Ukulele at Walmart

Walmart: Love it or hate it, this place has just about everything a person could ever want – including ukuleles. Visit the store in person and you might find a cheap uke or two sitting on a shelf in the toy department. Go online, and you’ll find quite a few options to choose from, plus some nice accessories.

Pros

You can find a variety of cheap ukuleles to choose from
Accessories like cases, stands, and music books are available
Some ukuleles are sold as package deals with cases, books, and other accessories
You can have the ukulele shipped to your local Walmart and pick it up there
Walmart has a good return policy in case you’re not happy with your purchase

Cons

Many of the ukuleles are toys
Many of the ukuleles haven’t been reviewed so unless you have a specific model in mind, it’s hard to tell whether you’ll like the way the ukulele looks and sounds when it arrives

Buying a Ukulele at Your Local Music Store

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If you’re lucky enough to have a local music store that carries ukuleles, then you should go take a look at what they have to offer! Local venues are an excellent place to find high-quality ukuleles including models that aren’t typically offered online. You can also go to a music store to have your ukulele fitted with different strings, and many music stores also offer lessons.
Pros

It’s nice to support local businesses
Knowledgeable employees can help you make the right choice
You can find unique ukuleles in many music stores including high-end models that aren’t typically available online
Some music stores offer good-quality used instruments at discounted prices
Music stores offer additional services that will help you enjoy your ukulele and get more out of it
Music stores are great places to meet and connect with other musicians
You can try the ukuleles before making your purchase
Most music stores have reasonable returns policies; just be sure to check before finalizing your purchase
You can often find accessories at music stores, plus some of the larger stores offer ukuleles as package deals complete with bags, stands, and more

Cons

Music stores are sometimes a little more expensive than online venues
There are fewer models to choose from
You may have to travel a short distance to shop for your ukulele