10 Best Mandolins 2025 in the United States

The Ibanez M522SBS F-Style Acoustic Brown Sunburst Mandolin is a well-crafted instrument that could be a great choice for both beginners and intermediate players. One of its standout features is the solid Sitka spruce top, which is known for its strength and resonant sound. The flamed maple back and sides not only add to its visual appeal but also contribute to its bright and clear tone.

The maple neck and purpleheart fretboard and bridge are durable and provide a comfortable playing experience. Additionally, the polished finish enhances its aesthetic value, making it a visually striking instrument in the brown sunburst color. The gold mandolin tuners with acrylic buttons add a touch of elegance and ensure precise tuning.

The mandolin's 13.75-inch scale length is standard and should be comfortable for most players. It is also lightweight at 2.5 pounds, making it easy to handle during long playing sessions. On the downside, the variety of woods used (maple, rosewood, mahogany, spruce) might be a bit confusing for those who prefer a single type of wood for tonal consistency. Also, the adjustable bridge, while offering flexibility, might require some setup knowledge to achieve the desired action and intonation.

The Kentucky KM-252 Artist A-model Mandolin offers a solid carved Sitka spruce top and carved maple back and sides, which together provide a bright, clear tone with good punch—ideal for players who want a lively acoustic sound. Its slim maple neck and East Indian rosewood fingerboard make it comfortable to play, especially for those who prefer easy finger movement. The transparent amber lacquer finish gives the instrument a nice shine and classic look. Weighing around 5 pounds, it's fairly light and manageable for extended playing.

While the mandolin features quality woods and a thoughtful build, it is made in China and might not have the refinement of higher-end American or European models, though it offers good value for the price. It’s suited for intermediate players or those looking for a reliable mandolin with solid tone and playability without a premium cost. Beginners may find its slim neck helpful, but absolute newcomers might want to test it in person to ensure it feels right.

This model strikes a pleasing balance between solid craftsmanship and sound quality within its category.

The Kentucky KM-150 Standard A-model Mandolin is a solid choice for mandolin enthusiasts. It features a solid German spruce top that delivers a crisp, bright tone, ideal for clean articulation. The solid Alpine maple back and sides add power and projection, making your music stand out.

Its slim Alpine maple neck is designed for comfortable and easy play, which is great for both beginners and more experienced players. The fingerboard made of choice tonewood offers a smooth playing experience, ensuring you can glide your fingers effortlessly. Aesthetically, the high-gloss sunburst finish gives the mandolin a timeless and elegant appearance, adding visual appeal to its musical prowess.

On the downside, at 5 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for some users, particularly during prolonged playing sessions. Additionally, while the mandolin is manual and straightforward, those looking for advanced features might find it somewhat basic. The scale length of 13.88 inches is standard, suitable for most players, but might not be ideal for those with specific preferences for longer or shorter scales. This mandolin ranks decently within its category, making it a reliable choice for most mandolin players.