String instruments have always been popular and this group of instruments has a great diversity. Among many of its kinds, the one that we are going to discuss today is a prominent member of the lute family. It is played using a pick and exhibits beautiful appearance. Some of the major structural parts include body, bridge, sound hole, nut, neck, tuning pegs, and headstock.
The mandolins come in different styles and if you have ever been interested in playing this commendable instrument, you might have an idea about the famous types that include A style, F style, and round-backed mandolin. No matter which one you like to choose, your preference should be the sound quality. The first and foremost thing to consider while buying any kind of musical instrument including mandolins is the quality of sound that it delivers.
What are the Best Cheap Mandolins to Buy?
2) Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin Black
- Black Finish
- Responsive Performance
- Great Sound
- Easy Operation
1) Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin Sunburst
- High Quality
- Affordable
- Maple Neck
- Rosewood Fingerboard
3) Ibanez M510DVS Mandolin
- Chrome Hardware
- Violin Sunburst
- Pearl Dot Inlay
- Comfortable Playing
Another thing that you should look for is the reliable structure and design. Besides, your level of skills is also a considerable matter. If you are going to try playing for the very first time, there is a whole range of entry-level mandolins provided at very fair rates. Similarly, if you are a traveling musician, you should choose one with a more robust structure that can withstand the harshness of weather and journey.
Additionally, one highly significant factor that should be kept in mind for the mandolin purchase is the budget. It is a general notion that low-rate mandolins don’t sound good. It is not always right. There are many that come at a very reasonable rate and offer excellent sound quality. All you need to do is do some research and find a good one.
Today, we are here with some great information for all those who want to purchase a solidly built, good sounding mandolin in a budget. You don’t have to spend plenty of your time in finding the right model for yourself. We have made a list of cheap mandolins that offer good sound and a pleasant playing experience. Take a look at their structural design, playing features and specifications so that you can make a better buying decision.
20 Best Cheap Mandolin Reviews and the Best Budget Mandolins
1) Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin Sunburst
This is a stunning A-style mandolin. Although it has a very low purchase price, yet it offers phenomenal playing experience. The first thing that you are going to love about this musical instrument is its beautiful looks.
The sunburst color, elegant style, and commendable design make you fall for it. Not only this, the playing capabilities are also amazing and you would enjoy a great experience at a very affordable rate. Besides, this model exhibits a pleasant looking finish and great craftsmanship. It helps the players to deliver an effortless performance.
It is very light in weight and carries just about 2.85 pounds. The size dimensions are 27.3 x 13.3 x 4.2 inches. High-quality wood is used to make its structure robust. The neck comprises maple while the fingerboard and bridge are made with Rosewood.
Moreover, the adjustable bridge design adds more convenience to the play. This is a robust structure and you can use it as long as you want. Both the new learners and intermediate players would find it a very suitable choice.
2) Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin Black
This is one of the most recommended Rogue Mandolins for those who are looking for a good sounding instrument at low budget. The gorgeous black finish makes it look more stunning and easy operation makes it a more favorable selection.
This is a strongly constructed and carefully crafted A-style Mandolin. Try this for a more responsive performance and an enhanced and brighter tone at a very fair price. Along with other benefits, a major advantage is that it offers a very comfy experience.
It has 2.9 pounds weight and size are 27.8 x 13.2 x 3.9 inches. It reflects ace workmanship and admirable construction that is a huge plus for such low-rate instruments. The model comprises a solid maple neck which is very easy to play and the fingerboard is made of Rosewood.
A few other main features are adjustable Bridge of rosewood and well-made chrome tuning machines. This is built to last long. In short, it is a suggested beginner’s pick.
3) Ibanez M510DVS Mandolin, Dark Violin Sunburst
Here is an exquisite addition that is often preferred because of classy looks combined with exceptional sound quality. If you want to enjoy a clear and pleasant sound at an affordable price, you should go for it. Although it is a bit pricey as compared to the above-mentioned models, it is worth spending some money.
This is also in A-style and the structural design exhibits applaudable workmanship. Furthermore, the dark violin sunburst color adds to its aesthetic appeal. The lightweight makes it a more suitable option for players of all skill levels.
It has only 2.5 pounds of weight. Considering the size dimensions, these are 27 x 3 x 1.5 inches. Additionally, manufacturing material is chosen smartly that adds to its strength. The top of the instrument is made with solid spruce. Moreover, the back and sides are made by using high-grade mahogany wood.
In addition, the chrome hardware and pearl dot inlay make it a more desirable option. It is very easy to play and easy to handle as well. Try this for an enhanced and high-quality performance.
4) Oscar Schmidt OM10EWH Acoustic-Electric Mandolin
How beautiful this white mandolin is! The appealing outlook makes it look distinguished from the rest of A style mandolins. In addition to its adorable outlook, the design and playing features are also excellent.
If you are looking for a reasonable model for better learning and you have good aesthetic sense, you are definitely going to try this. It is available at a very fair price and delivers enhanced tone with very clear sound. The high gloss finish in white makes it look way more expensive than its actual price.
The OM10EWH has only 3.35 pounds weight and its exact size measurements are 34 x 7 x 13 inches. The workmanship is truly stunning and wise selection of manufacturing material makes it a more robust instrument. Its top is made using solid spruce while sides and back are made of high-grade mahogany which is a preferred choice for the long-lasting construction of different musical instruments.
Besides, both the bridge and fingerboard have solid rosewood while neck also contains mahogany. This is easy to play an instrument that gives a very impressive performance.
5) Savannah SA-100-BK A-Model Mandolin
Savannah is a reputable name that is known best for producing outclass acoustic instruments featuring high quality and commendable sound. Besides, these are preferred due to their affordable rates. Among its broad range of products, the one mentioned here is among the best mandolins that you can get at this price.
Take a look at its pleasant outlook at elegant design. Not only it looks beautiful, it also delivers a very bright and clear sound. You will enjoy its clear tone and remarkable action for sure.
Speaking of the weight, it is only 2.9 pounds while size measurements are 28 x 13.5 x 4 inches. With flawless construction, simple design and stunning craftsmanship, this mandolin offers a very comfy playing experience. Besides, the structure is designed to make it a more durable instrument.
Its fretboard comprises rosewood while the neck is made of solid and hard maple. The 12th fret neck joint and adjustable bridge design makes it a more favorable choice. Grab it if you want great sound quality and nice looks at a low rate.
6) Donner A-Style Mandolin Instrument Sunburst
Donner is a well-recognized name that has been producing superb musical instruments since 2012. It is mainly famous for an innovative approach and first-rate structural quality. The one we added here is one of its cheaper models that delivers praiseworthy performance. It is a traditional A-style mandolin with a very glossy finish in sunburst color.
Besides, it offers high value for your money. The easy functioning and magnificent sound quality make it a more desirable instrument. It is a handy option for both the fresh students and advanced learners.
Its total weight is 3.53 pounds and size measures 24.4 x 14.2 x 4.7 inches. This right-handed model is accurately designed for a smooth action and it delivers a very bright and rich sound with enhanced clarity.
The body consist of mahogany wood and other features include chrome plated tailpiece and tuners, easy to play neck design and a solid truss rod which is made adjustable for your ease. Additionally, it comes with a number of accessories including strings, polishing cloth, digital tuner, guitar picks and a gig bag.
7) Barcelona Left-Handed Mandolin
Here comes another cheap option for the hobbyist and fresh players. It is always suggested to take a start with a low budget model as you need more practice and the low-cost ones are usually simple in structure and easy in operation, just like the one we are discussing here.
This left-handed mandolin in violin burst color is adorable in appearance and fantastic in functionality. In addition, it is structured to be more robust and you can freely enjoy your practice with it. This is important to mention that it features easy action and gives high-quality sound.
The total weight of this well-structured mandolin is 2.95 pounds and its physical dimensions are 27.5 x 13.5 x 4.5 inches. This bluegrass model has a top, back and sides made of high-grade basswood. Moreover, it has a rosewood fingerboard and nato neck which offers comfortable playability while the maple bridge is stained black.
The tailpiece added is engraved and Nickle plated and it has open gear machine heads. Start your musical journey with this mandolin and you would have a very easy and pleasant learning experience at a very reasonable rate.
8) A-Style Mandolin Oval Soundhole Dark Wineburst Finish
This one offers a more graceful appearance and the wine burst finish gives it a phenomenal look. If you want to purchase a more attractive instrument with expensive outlook in addition to superb playability, give it a try.
This is a bit expensive than others but considering the playing capabilities, structural design, and solid construction, it is a matchless model that you can get at this price. This is a right-handed A-style model while it is also available in left-handed design and you can select one as per your convenience.
It has a very reasonable weight of only 3 pounds which makes the play easier. Furthermore, the size measurements are 27 x 10 x 2 inches. The solid structure makes it a more desirable. It uses high-grade and very durable strings while the neck made of hard maple has 20 frets.
The neck is designed for comfy play backed by the addition of adjustable truss rod. Some other features are chrome plated tuning gears and tailpiece with cover, and oval sound hole. Furthermore, it comes complete with a strap and a hard carrying case which makes this one more portable. Interestingly, it offers a complete money back guarantee as well.
9) Morgan Monroe RT-FM1 Rocky Top F-Style Mandolin
Here is another excellent pick from Morgan Monroe. Like its other models, this Mandolin also exhibits clear craftsmanship, high aesthetics, and strong structure. This is made in F-style and comprises the highly durable structure.
Considering the construction quality, smooth action, and easy playability, the price is amazing. It is a very economical option that you can buy to deliver a high-class performance. Whether you are an intermediate learner or a pro, it will help you to showcase your skills. Besides, new leaners can also give it a try as it is made to offer a convenient play for all skill levels.
This mandolin carries only 2.8 pounds weight. The size dimensions are 26.4 x 10.5 x 4.5 inches. Speaking of its solid structure, the instrument’s top, back, and sides are all made of high-quality basswood which is the most recommended tonewood used in the construction of several musical instruments.
Additionally, some of the specifications are dot inlay, Nickle silver frets, extended fingerboard, black pickguard, adjustable bridge, chrome tuning keys, a customizable truss rod and bound top. Lastly, it comes complete with 10 years warranty.
10) Savannah SA-100 A-Model Mandolin
We have included another splendid model of mandolin presented by Savannah. It is also an A-style mandolin. Owing to its simple yet decent outlook, strong structure, easy action and expressive play, it is among the widely used mandolins that come at a very reasonable price.
Besides, its clear sound and impressive tonal qualities make it a suitable pick for both the new players and intermediate learners. This mandolin also comes with very easy to follow instructions for setting up the bridge.
This is a very lightweight musical instrument and carries only 2.78 pounds. The size dimensions include 28 x 13.5 x 4 inches. Its robust structure comprises a solid wood structure and the neck is made using high-quality maple.
Some other specifications include an adjustable bridge, rosewood fretboard and 12th fret neck joint. Try this if you want to enjoy a bright and enhanced sound without spending much money. Moreover, the solid construction makes it a long-lasting and more reliable choice.
11) ammoon 8-String Electric A-Style Mandolin
Ammoon is among the well-recognized names that manufacture musical instruments and it is known well for amazing workmanship, high durability, and excellent quality. It offers a diverse line of mandolins and the one discussed here is among the cheap ones.
It is designed to provide a comfortable playing experience to the players. Further, the combination of black color with sunburst gives a ravishing look. If you want to buy a more attractive one, pick this one and you won’t regret your choice. This A-style mandolin is very easy to carry as well because of its very lightweight.
It weighs only 3.02 pounds. Besides, the size measurements include 25.9 x 16.2 x 7.6 inches. The body is made strong with solid basswood and spruce while the fingerboard and bridge comprise rosewood and neck have Okumen wood.
Other specifications are 2 sound holes and knobs for controlling the tone and sound. Try this for a more expressive performance with enhanced sound quality. This model comes complete with a 3-meter-long cable, 8 strings and a cleaning cloth.
12) MANDOLIN – A Style – 8 String – Teardrop with Oval Soundhole 24.5″ Long
Take a look at this simpler one made to give a delightful experience to the hobbyists and first-timers. If you want to get one for your kid, this would be a reasonable option as well. The instrument with teardrop shape has 8 strings and very simple design and plain finish.
It is not built up to professional standards but for new beginners, it is an apt choice. Furthermore, exclusive attention is paid to instrument’s structure and it is made highly durable for better and long-term practice.
Those who are incapable of properly handling mandolin would find it very comfortable because of its simple structure and lightweight. Being robust in construction, it is less prone to damage.
The exact size measurements of this model include 24.5 x 9 x 2.5 inches and its total weight is about 2.9 pounds. Besides, the length and width of the fretboard are 9.75 and 1.25 inches respectively.
The mandolin’s top comprises high-quality spruce wood while the sides and back are made of walnut. Some other specifications are white frets, popular headstock, and Nickle plated tailpiece.
13) Z ZTDM Deluxe A-Style Mandolin Adjustable Truss Rod, Sunburst
Take a look at this mandolin presented in sunburst style in a beautiful color combination of black and gold. Special attention is paid to its aesthetics and you will find it an attractive one. Additionally, the functionality is also amazing and this is made to deliver a joyous playing experience with great sound quality and easy functionality.
Thus, if you want to buy a well-structured mandolin with a decent outlook and appreciable playability, here is a very appropriate option that you can buy at a very reasonable price. Moreover, the high durability makes it a good option for young players. If you want to learn in a more economical way, you may not find anything better than this.
Considering the weight, it has only 2.25 pounds. The size measurements include 26.8 x 2.1 x 10.6 inches. The instrument is made strong and its top, sides, and back are all made with solid maple. It has 8 strings and features.
This is considered as one of the most comfortable mandolins in terms of playability and this easy play is backed by an adjustable bridge structure and appreciable neck design. Some other specifications include chrome plated tuners and 20 frets of silver Nickle.
14) Oscar Schmidt OM10E A-Style Spruce Top Acoustic-Electric Mandolin
Oscar Schmidt is a very famous name in the industry of music instruments. It was established years ago in 1871 and since then, it has been manufacturing and supplying top quality instruments of different kinds.
Among its wide range of musical products, a mandolin is a prominent category and it offers some of the best of these. The OM10E is an A-style mandolin that shows seamless structural design, flawless construction, attractive design and easy playability. Above all, it can be bought at a very economical price. Go for it if you are looking for a durable acoustic mandolin with good quality sound.
Furthermore, this mandolin has 4 pounds weight and the size dimensions are 25 x 12 x 5 inches. As far as the structure is concerned, it has spruce top while the back and sides comprise solid Mahogany wood.
The neck is designed for easy playability and it is also made of mahogany. In addition, the fingerboard and bridge are made of most recommended rosewood. Thus, this A-style mandolin is certainly the most suitable option if you want a good sounding instrument at a low budget.
15) 8-String MANDOLIN F-Style SUNBURST TOBACCO Sandalwood Gold Hardware
Here is another eminent option to begin with. This is an F-style mandolin built with matchless aesthetics and marvelous structural quality. Along with easy affordability, comfortable playability is a major perk.
If you are beginning to learn this incredible instrument, it would be great to choose this as your first mandolin. The design is simple and the elegant sunburst finish makes it look more pleasing to the eyes. Moreover, the intermediate players would also find it a good option to practice their skills.
Its weight and size are also apposite for the new learners. The mandolin has only 3.9 pounds weight while size dimensions are 29 x 12.5 x 4inches. This full-sized instrument comprises 8 strings and it is well-structured to enhance its durability.
The top and sides are made of solid spruce and it has deluxe tuners. Some important specifications are gold accents, pickguard, and adjustable bridge design. Although it is not built for the professionals, students will find it a great learning instrument.
16) IRIN A-Style Elegant Maple Wood Mandolin
If you are a new player or just a hobbyist, this one is made for you. Designed simply for the starters and young players, it offers a very easy play. Considering the structure and outlook, it is a simple one and helps to deliver a good performance.
Thus, if you are looking for a more affordable option, here it is. Grab it and enjoy the play in a more convenient manner. This is another A-style mandolin that gives a really nice sound at a very low price.
Let’s take a look at its size and weight. The weight is just 2.25 pounds while size dimensions are 26.8 x 10.6 x 2.1 inches. This is made with cambered wood and reflects delicate workmanship.
The structural design includes rosewood fingerboard and bridge, acoustic strings of steel, and body of high-grade basswood. Besides, there is Nickle plated tuner which is corrosion free and easier to keep clean. The adjustable bridge and easy to play neck makes it more favorable for newbies.
17) Morgan Monroe RT-M1E Mandolin
Morgan Monroe is not a new name. The brand was first established in 2001 and since then it has been manufacturing high quality and well-crafted mandolins in A style ad F style. The construction quality is great and it delivers highly durable instruments.
The one included here is among their most selling models and it gives a very pleasant and clear sound. Everything including the construction, design, appearance, and functionality is praiseworthy.
In short, it is worth spending some money. This is built with special attention to the playability and you will find it very helpful in delivering a more expressive performance.
It weighs only 2.4 pounds and its size measurements include 28 x 4 x 10.9 inches. The RT-M1E has a very high gloss finish and it features solid construction. The instrument’s top, back, and sides are all made of hard linden wood. Other specific features include metal chrome tuners, Nickle silver frets and fretboard, and bridge of hardwood.
A major perk of buying this one is that it comes with a warranty of 10 years. Thus, if you want to learn to play this musical instrument, choosing it as your first mandolin would be great for you.
18) Kona Guitars KMF10 Mandolin
Kona offers an entire line of acoustic and electric guitars, amplifiers, mandolins and a number of musical accessories of good quality at very reasonable rates. This is usually known for enhanced durability of its instruments and very fair rates.
The KMF10 Mandolin is a fantastic instrument regarding structure, design, quality, functionality, and affordability. Although it is cheap in price, considering the smoother action, comfy playability and first-rate sound quality, it is worth giving a try. This F style model has tobacco sunburst finish and the body has a traditional Florentine shape.
The weight is only 2.28 pounds and the physical dimensions are 27.4 x 2.9 x 13.2 inches. It has a beautiful structure. The top is made with laminated arched linden. The sides and back also comprise linden, the neck is made of solid maple while the adjustable bridge is constructed using rosewood.
Additionally, the fingerboard is made of rosewood and has chord inlays with a total of 24 frets. Some other features include pearloid keys, Nickle Silver tuners, and pickguard in black.
19) Jili Online Acoustic Electric Mandolin
Black color exhibits class and elegance. This mandolin in black finish is often preferred for its stunning looks and easy functionality. This acoustic-electric mandolin is made especially for the beginners and has highly durable structure.
Interestingly, it looks expensive and enables the players to deliver an applaudable performance. If you are in your early stages of learning, practicing this would be very helpful for you and the best thing is, it is available at a very low price. Grab it and start your musical journey in a more comfortable and economical manner. Besides, being solidly constructed, it allows you to keep practicing it for a long time.
This mandolin with 8 strings is well-crafted and reflects excellent workmanship. Moreover, it is designed to deliver a brighter tone with enhanced bark. The bridge is made adjustable and easy to play neck makes your practice more entertaining.
Speaking of structure, it is a robust one and comprises solid basswood. A set of strings is also included in the package. Lastly, it comes with a high-quality carry bag so that you can easily carry your instrument to the classes.
20) Stagg M50 E BLK Acoustic-Electric Bluegrass Mandolin
Stagg has been offering a whole range of beautifully crafted string instruments and this mandolin is particularly known well for its simple design, vintage feel, effortless playability and solid structure. Interestingly, you can enjoy the first-rate performance with this one at a very low price. It has an elegant black finish and sound holes in f shape.
It carries 3.3 pounds weight and is very easy to handle for all players including new players, passionate learners, and pros. The size dimensions of Stagg M50 E are 29 x 5 x 13 inches.
Furthermore, the solid structure comprises Nato body with rosewood fretboard. The adjustable bridge is made of maple and it is black in color. It also features a single coil pickup. The selection of solid woods makes it more robust.
Moreover, there are two knobs for better and enhanced control over the tone and volume. Those who are playing it for the first time are going to find this knob feature very useful. Try this for enjoying an authentic tone and clearer sound.
Choosing the Best Cheap Mandolin from the Best Budget Mandolin Brands
All of these are built to last long and you won’t have to worry about their quality. They offer great value for money and you can purchase any of these to practice your skills. If you are a struggling player, you should not spend much money on one instrument. Learn on the basic one, it would be easier for you.
2) Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin Black
- Black Finish
- Responsive Performance
- Great Sound
- Easy Operation
1) Rogue RM-100A A-Style Mandolin Sunburst
- High Quality
- Affordable
- Maple Neck
- Rosewood Fingerboard
3) Ibanez M510DVS Mandolin
- Chrome Hardware
- Violin Sunburst
- Pearl Dot Inlay
- Comfortable Playing
It is hard to find a good quality and thoroughly playing mandolin at a low rate. Usually, the price affects the functional quality but we have presented you such amazing models using which you can deliver a very good and appreciable performance by spending a very reasonable price.
Why spend a fortune on a musical instrument when you can get one at a low rate?
Especially, if you are in your learning stages, you should buy yourself a cheap one and mandolin accessory like capo. Select any of these depending on your playing needs and personal choice and enjoy a very economical musical experience.