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10 Best Banjos 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Deering Goodtime Openback 5 String Banjo - Best Beginner Banjo | Made In U.S.A.
The Deering Goodtime Openback 5 String Banjo is an excellent choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of banjo playing. Weighing less than 5 pounds, it's lightweight and portable, making it simple to take along to various gatherings like camping trips or music festivals. The open-back design contributes to its warm and resonant sound, which is perfect for traditional folk tunes and a variety of musical styles. Constructed with high-quality materials, including a 3-ply violin grade maple rim and a rock maple neck, this banjo boasts both durability and a pleasant playing experience.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,121
Resonator vs. Open-Back
Neck Material
Weight
Most important from
227 reviews
#2
Gold Tone OB-150: Orange Blossom Banjo with Case, 5-String Banjo
The Gold Tone OB-150 is a well-crafted 5-string banjo that stands out for its resonator design, making it a solid choice for those interested in bluegrass or folk music. The 11" brass flat top tone ring and 3-ply maple rim contribute to a rich, bright sound, ideal for projecting in ensemble settings. With a scale length of 26-1/4", it caters well to both beginner and intermediate players looking for playability without sacrificing tone quality. The fingerboard made of rosewood offers a smooth feel, enhancing playability.
Rating
9.7
Resonator vs. Open-Back
Most important from
14 reviews
#3
Gold Tone AC-1: 5-String Beginnner Banjo, Full Size with Gig-Bag, Bluegrass or Clawhammer
The Gold Tone AC-1 is an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore the world of banjos. Its open-back design allows for a warm and resonant sound, making it suitable for styles like clawhammer or bluegrass. Weighing just 1 pound, it's lightweight, which adds to its appeal for new players who might struggle with heavier instruments. The composite rim and Remo frosted head contribute to its durability and ease of maintenance, which is a plus for those just starting out.
Rating
9.7
Resonator vs. Open-Back
Weight
Most important from
107 reviews
Top 10 Best Banjos 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Deering Goodtime Openback 5 String Banjo - Best Beginner Banjo | Made In U.S.A.
Deering Goodtime Openback 5 String Banjo - Best Beginner Banjo | Made In U.S.A.
Type of Banjo: 5 String
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Openback
Neck Material: rock maple
Rim and Tone Ring: 3-ply violin maple rim
Scale Length: 26.25
Number of Frets: 22
Weight: 4 pounds
Chosen by 1121 this week
Gold Tone OB-150: Orange Blossom Banjo with Case, 5-String Banjo
Gold Tone OB-150: Orange Blossom Banjo with Case, 5-String Banjo
Type of Banjo: 5-string
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator
Rim and Tone Ring: 3-ply maple, 11" brass ring
Scale Length: 26-1/4"
Weight: 11.48 pounds
Gold Tone AC-1: 5-String Beginnner Banjo, Full Size with Gig-Bag, Bluegrass or Clawhammer
Gold Tone AC-1: 5-String Beginnner Banjo, Full Size with Gig-Bag, Bluegrass or Clawhammer
Type of Banjo: Banjo
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Open-Back
Rim and Tone Ring: Composite rim, Remo head
Number of Frets: 20
Weight: 1 pound
Gold Tone GT-750 Banjitar Deluxe Banjo (Six String, Rosewood)
Gold Tone GT-750 Banjitar Deluxe Banjo (Six String, Rosewood)
Type of Banjo: Banjitar
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator
Neck Material: Maple
Rim and Tone Ring: Maple rim, brass tone ring
Scale Length: 25.5
Weight: 11.3 pounds
Vangoa Banjo 5 String Full Size Banjos Set with Resonator, Remo Head, Beginner Banjo Kit with Closed Back, Premium Accessories for Adults, Teenager
Vangoa Banjo 5 String Full Size Banjos Set with Resonator, Remo Head, Beginner Banjo Kit with Closed Back, Premium Accessories for Adults, Teenager
Type of Banjo: 5-string
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator (closed back)
Neck Material: Mahogany
Rim and Tone Ring: Remo drum head
Scale Length: 38-inch
Number of Frets: 22
Weight: 6.2 pounds
Related Products
Recording King RK-R35-BR Madison Tone Ring Banjo, Maple Resonator
Recording King RK-R35-BR Madison Tone Ring Banjo, Maple Resonator
Type of Banjo: resonator-style
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator
Neck Material: Maple
Rim and Tone Ring: Mastertone-style bell brass tone ring
Scale Length: 26.125
Weight: 7.5 pounds
Recording King RK-R36-BR Madison Tone Ring Banjo, Mahogany Resonator
Recording King RK-R36-BR Madison Tone Ring Banjo, Mahogany Resonator
Type of Banjo: 4-string
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator
Neck Material: Mahogany
Rim and Tone Ring: Maple & Rosewood rim, brass ring
Weight: 13.8 pounds
Deering Goodtime 5-String Openback Banjo Art Deco Inlay Bronze Powder Coat Hardware Open Back with Instrument Alley Bag, Tuner, Mute, Picks Combo - Made in the USA
Deering Goodtime 5-String Openback Banjo Art Deco Inlay Bronze Powder Coat Hardware Open Back with Instrument Alley Bag, Tuner, Mute, Picks Combo - Made in the USA
Type of Banjo: 5-String Openback
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Openback
Neck Material: Rock Maple
Rim and Tone Ring: 11-inch 3-ply maple rim
Scale Length: 37.5 inches
Number of Frets: 22
Weight: 7.68 pounds
Blackgrass Goodtime 5-String Banjo by Deering
Blackgrass Goodtime 5-String Banjo by Deering
Type of Banjo: 5-String
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator
Neck Material: Rock Maple
Rim and Tone Ring: 3-ply maple rim
Number of Frets: 22
Weight: 1 pound
#10
Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek Banjo with Resonator (Five String, Clear Maple)
Gold Tone CC-100R Cripple Creek Banjo with Resonator (Five String, Clear Maple)
Type of Banjo: Resonator
Resonator vs. Open-Back: Resonator
Neck Material: Maple
Rim and Tone Ring: Maple rim, Brass ring
Scale Length: 26.19 inches
Number of Frets: 22
Weight: 6.5 pounds
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Buying Guide for the Best Banjos
Choosing the right banjo can be a rewarding experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player. The key to finding the perfect banjo is understanding the different specifications and how they align with your playing style, musical preferences, and skill level. By focusing on the key specs, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your playing experience and help you achieve your musical goals.Type of BanjoBanjos come in different types, including 4-string, 5-string, and 6-string models. The 5-string banjo is the most common and is often used in bluegrass and folk music. The 4-string banjo, also known as a tenor or plectrum banjo, is popular in jazz and Irish music. The 6-string banjo, also known as a banjitar, is tuned like a guitar and is suitable for guitar players transitioning to the banjo. Choose the type that matches the genre of music you want to play and your current skill set.
Resonator vs. Open-BackBanjos can have either a resonator or an open-back design. A resonator banjo has a wooden back that projects the sound forward, making it louder and brighter, which is ideal for bluegrass and other ensemble settings. An open-back banjo lacks this back piece, resulting in a softer, mellower sound, which is preferred for old-time and clawhammer styles. Consider where and how you plan to play when choosing between these two designs.
Neck MaterialThe neck of a banjo can be made from various woods, such as maple, mahogany, or walnut. Maple necks are known for their bright, clear tone and are often used in bluegrass banjos. Mahogany necks produce a warmer, mellower sound, while walnut necks offer a balance between the two. Your choice of neck material will affect the banjo's tone and playability, so consider the sound you prefer and the feel of the neck in your hands.
Rim and Tone RingThe rim and tone ring are crucial components that influence the banjo's sound. The rim is the circular wooden part of the body, while the tone ring is a metal ring that sits on top of the rim. Banjos with a tone ring tend to have a brighter, more powerful sound, making them suitable for bluegrass and other loud playing styles. Banjos without a tone ring have a softer, more subdued tone, which is ideal for folk and old-time music. Decide based on the volume and tone you desire.
Scale LengthThe scale length of a banjo refers to the distance between the nut and the bridge. A longer scale length (around 26-27 inches) provides more tension on the strings, resulting in a brighter tone and more volume. A shorter scale length (around 23-25 inches) offers less tension, producing a warmer tone and making the banjo easier to play, especially for those with smaller hands. Choose a scale length that feels comfortable and suits your playing style.
Number of FretsBanjos typically have between 19 and 24 frets. More frets allow for a greater range of notes and can be beneficial for advanced players who want to explore higher notes and more complex music. Fewer frets can make the banjo lighter and easier to handle, which might be preferable for beginners or those focusing on traditional playing styles. Consider your playing level and the type of music you want to play when deciding on the number of frets.
WeightThe weight of a banjo can vary significantly depending on its construction and materials. Heavier banjos, often with a resonator and tone ring, provide a louder and more resonant sound but can be more challenging to hold and play for extended periods. Lighter banjos, typically open-back models, are easier to manage and more comfortable for long practice sessions. Think about your physical comfort and how you plan to use the banjo when considering its weight.