Have you tried unsuccessfully to adapt a right handed ukulele for left handed playing? Have you tried to turn the chords upside down to teach yourself to play a standard Ukulele? Do you believe that Ukuleles for left handed players are not available or lower in quality? Well…we have great news for you!
It’s much easier to buy a Uke that is custom made for left-handed players. Here we are going to review the best left handed Ukuleles so you can make an informed buying decision.
Here is Our #1 Pick:
- Good-quality uke and accessories
- Plays very smoothly
- Durable
- Made by a reputable company
- Affordable
- Handmade Ukulele
When you take this approach, you’ll find it is fast and easy to learn chords and songs, particularly if you’re taking advantage of online videos. Unless you’re watching another left-handed ukulele player when you view tutorials, the player on the screen will be providing a mirror image of your own playing, making it easier for you to follow.
With affordability, quality, and your status as a southpaw, we’ve curated a list of five of the best left-handed ukuleles for beginners. Each instrument has something unique to offer, making it a little easier for you to narrow down your choices
Top 5 Best Left Handed Ukuleles Reviewed
Oscar Schmidt OU2LH Left-Handed Mahogany Concert Ukulele
Constructed with beautiful mahogany all the way around the left handers choice OU2LH model concert ukulele features a complementing sealed chrome tuners and a rosewood bridge that can’t be beat. The combining of white color adds even more striking contrast, which provides a glowing look that is natural and classical. Though the instrument is simple in taste, the sweet mellow sound of this left-handed ukulele makes playing a pleasure to the ear.
Pros:
- Excellent sound
- Beautiful appearance
- Affordable
Cons:
- Priced higher than many other ukuleles for beginners
- The strings included on the Ukulele aren’t the best. After-market strings will dramatically improve the sound.
Customers Who Purchased This Ukulele Said:
- Wonderful sound for such an inexpensive instrument. I am having a lot of fun with this uke – it’s also nice to have an instrument that is designed right out of the box for left-handed users. This model is a great one for beginners.
Who will Appreciate this Ukulele?
Left-handed player’s who want to stay within their budget of about $100 will really appreciate this Oscar Schmidt OU2LH Concert Ukulele.
The standard handed version is among the most popular concert ukuleles on the market, and both handed versions get high marks for their quality craftsmanship, durability, and full, rich sound.
Caramel CC100L Left Handed Ukulele
Among just a handful of beginner electric left handed uke’s, the CC100L manufactured by Caramel is extremely appealing in its features. Made with very striking zebra wood and a beuatiful all natural finish. The left handed electric Ukulele has a vine and leaf theme molded at the sound hole.
This ukulele includes high quality Aquila strings and real buffalo bone nut and saddle with a contrasting fretboard and bridge that is rosewood. Embedded in its neck is a truss rod which allows for adjustments. Most impressively are the electronics installed inside that enable amplified play.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Holds tuning well
- Durable
Cons:
- Electronics aren’t the best on the market
- Less resonance than an expensive ukulele
Customers Who Purchased This Ukulele Said:
- This is a nice looking uke that holds its tuning well. The built-in tuner is a nice touch, and the build quality is good. Overall, this is a fun uke to play and the price is great.
- This is a sweet sounding ukulele, particularly when played in acoustic mode.
Who will Appreciate this Ukulele?
If you have a tight budget to work with for a left-handed acoustic electric concert ukulele you’re you’re likely to appreciate this one from Caramel. Although its components are not on the highest end it give you the power to to play electrically and give you a feel for the acoustic electric ukulele sound wit just a small investment.
Luna Mahogany Tattoo Concert Ukulele LEFTY
A stunning instrument designed specifically for left-handed players, the Luna Mahogany Tattoo Concert Ukulele LEFTY offers a number of exciting features. With a mahogany back, sides, and top it boasts a tattoo design that is laser etched and inspired by traditional Hawaiian artistry. The shark tooth” fret markers are stylized and enrich the overall character of the Ukulele. The bridge and fretboard are made of rosewood, complementing the instrument’s overall appearance. This selection of left-handed ukulele is the full kit which contains a tuner, an extra set of Aquila strings, and even a gig bag to protect your investment.
Pros:
- Distinctive island-inspired design
- Arrives with Aquila strings, great sound right out of the box
- Package includes a gig bag
Cons:
- Bag is mediocre
- Tuner is just OK
Customers Who Purchased This Ukulele Said:
- This is a really nice setup, with all the equipment needed to start playing. It sounds beautiful, too.
- My daughter loves this ukulele! She is in college and travels a lot with the church youth. She has enjoyed playing it and says it’s very easy to tune.
Who will Appreciate this Ukulele?
Left-handed players who want a full bundle and a distinctive-looking ukulele will definitely relish this Left Hand Luna Tattoo. It’s worth noting the beauty of the instrument and all the bells and whistles are enticing. Both handed Luna ukuleles receive top marks for their quality. If you’re looking for a good left-handed ukulele that will last your journey to to intermediate skills and beyond, then this is the instrument to consider.
Mahalo’s Kahiko Plus Series Left-Handed Soprano Ukulele
Offering the sweet, plinky sound traditionally associated with the soprano ukulele, this Mahalo Kahiko Plus Series is designed with the needs of left-handed players in mind. Available in your choice of transparent black or purple finishes, it comes with Aquila strings and a carrying bag.
Pros:
- Very cheap, great for left-handed kids
- Good for the beach, camping, etc.
- Durable
Cons:
- Not the best materials; some reports of flawed tuners
- Sounds ok, but not quite as bright as a more expensive ukulele
Customers Who Purchased This Ukulele Said:
- Great for the price. Easy to learn with a book and a tuner, and good for anyone who has an interest in learning to play without a big outlay of money.
- I’m a beginner and this ukulele has been good for me. The solid black finish is attractive and simple.
Who will Appreciate this Ukulele?
If you’re looking for a beginner’s left-handed ukulele under $50, or if you’re looking for a cheap left-handed ukulele to take on outdoor adventures, then you may like this one from Mahalo. It’s one of just a handful of budget-friendly options available. Be sure to check restrictions for returning the ukulele if needed; some buyers report receiving right-handed ukes instead of left, and a few report flaws with the tuners. Bottom line? If price is your most important factor and you’re willing to take a risk, then you might want to take a look at this cheap left-handed ukulele.
Left Hand Oscar Schmidt OU5LH Concert Ukulele, All Koa with Hard Case
A quality left-hand ukulele, the Oscar Schmidt OU5 features a select Hawaiian Koa wood top and nyatoh neck with a 16-fret’s. The glamorous body binding made of Abalone and the abalone rosette increases its classic appearance. High quality Grover chrome tuners will keep your strings nice and tight. A hard case is included
Pros:
- Excellent tuners
- High quality woods
- Classic appearance
Cons:
- High price
- Might not be great for the beach or camping
Customers Who Purchased This Ukulele Said:
- I love the OU5LH for its sweet, classic sound. It’s a pleasure to play.
- The hard case really adds to the value.
Who will Appreciate this Ukulele?
If your budget has some wiggle room and you’re looking for a combination of high quality components plus the pleasure an easily playing then you’re likely to appreciate everything about the Left Hand Oscar Schmidt OU5LH concert ukulele. While it is not the cheapest ukulele available, it is well-built and will easily take you from beginner to expert.
Tips for Choosing a Left-Handed Ukulele for Beginners
Looking for a good left-handed ukulele can be quite an undertaking, as there are not a lot of options out there. Take the following tips into consideration as you make your choice, and you’re more likely to be satisfied with your purchase.
- Materials and Components: When it comes to ukuleles, materials and components matter. Laminated woods are just fine, particularly for beginners. Nice tuners from a brand such as Grover will prevent the frustration that comes with frequent tuning, and good quality strings feel and sound better than cheap ones.
- Size: Choose a size that feels comfortable in your hands, and one with a sound that appeals to you.
- Price: Cost is a major consideration, but as with other things, you generally get what you pay for. Spending a little more means a better playing experience, a better sound, and an instrument that lasts longer. The good news is that the best beginner left-handed ukuleles aren’t terribly expensive, particularly when compared with larger instruments such as guitars. You can get a nice one for about $200, and sometimes less.
The ukulele is a fun instrument to play, and it’s one that’s also very easy to learn. Once you’ve made your choice, expect to be hooked! We wish you luck as you embark on this wonderful musical adventure.
Sources:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/folk-traditional-instruments/oscar-schmidt-ou5-concert-koa-ukulele