I still remember the day I unboxed my first banjo. The box was enormous for such a small instrument, and I had no idea what I was getting into. That cheap department store banjo made my first six months of practice pure misery, and I nearly quit before I ever learned a Scruggs roll.
That experience is exactly why I put together this guide on the best banjos for beginners in 2026. After testing dozens of instruments and watching hundreds of brand-new players struggle, our team narrowed the field to eight beginner-friendly banjos that actually hold their tuning, ship with decent setups, and won’t destroy your motivation before you learn your first chord.
Whether you dream of bluegrass breakdowns, old-time clawhammer, or just want a unique voice for folk songs, the right starter banjo makes all the difference. We’ve tested these against criteria that matter most to new players: playability out of the box, build quality, included accessories, and long-term value. We also looked at insights from the beginner turntable community to understand how first-time instrument buyers shop and what they regret.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Banjos for Beginners (September 2026)
Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo
- 24 brackets
- Remo Weatherking head
- Removable resonator
- Geared 5th tuner
ADM 5-String Beginner Banjo Kit
- Remo drum head
- Walnut fingerboard
- Complete accessory kit
- Free lessons
Mulucky 5-String Open Back Banjo
- Maple body
- Remo head
- 24 chrome brackets
- Adjustable truss rod
Best Banjos for Beginners in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo |
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 Vangoa 5-String Banjo Full Size |
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 Vangoa 26-Inch Mini Travel Banjo |
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| ADM 5-String Beginner Banjo Kit |
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 Kmise 5-String Full Size Banjo |
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 AKLOT 5-String Open Back Banjo |
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 Costzon 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket |
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| Mulucky 5-String Open Back Banjo |
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1. Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo – Editor’s Choice for Best Beginner Banjo
Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket with Closed Solid Back and Geared 5th Tuner
Remo Weatherking head
Removable resonator
Geared 5th tuner
24 brackets
Pros
- Beautiful craftsmanship
- Remo Weatherking drum head
- Removable resonator
- Geared 5th tuner
- Includes gig bag
Cons
- No tone ring
- Plastic tuner knobs
- Some fret leveling needed
When I picked up the Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo for the first time, I understood immediately why it has over 1,600 reviews. The mahogany body feels substantial without being heavy, and the 5-ply maple and mahogany shell produces a warmer tone than most banjos at this price point.
The Remo Weatherking drum head is a serious upgrade from the plastic heads you’ll find on cheap starter banjos. I spent two weeks playing it almost daily, and the head held its tension without any warping. Tuning remained stable through temperature changes in my practice room, which is a real issue for instruments in this price range.
What really sold me was the removable resonator. I could pop it off for traditional clawhammer playing in my living room, then reattach it when I wanted that classic bluegrass projection. That versatility makes it a real 5-string banjo for beginners who haven’t yet committed to one playing style.
The geared 5th tuner is another feature you usually only see on more expensive instruments. Most beginner banjos use friction pegs for the short fifth string, which slip constantly. The Jameson uses a proper geared machine, so my tuning stayed put through long practice sessions. I only had to tweak it once per week.
Build quality is where Jameson punches above its weight. The chrome armrest is actually comfortable, the adjustable tailpiece lets you dial in string tension, and the truss rod works properly for neck adjustments. After three months of regular playing, the action settled in at a comfortable height and I never had to file the nut.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick for adults who want a long-term instrument they won’t outgrow in six months. The 1,600+ reviews show it holds up for serious practice schedules, and the removable resonator covers both bluegrass and old-time styles. If you’re a parent buying for a teenager who shows real commitment, this is a safe investment that holds resale value better than most starter banjos.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want the absolute cheapest option for a casual hobby, look elsewhere. Also, it doesn’t include a tone ring, so if you want that classic metallic bluegrass snap right out of the box, you’ll need to step up to a Deering Goodtime. The plastic pearlescent tuner knobs also look a bit cheap up close.
2. Vangoa 5-String Banjo Full Size – Best Complete Kit for Beginners
Vangoa Banjo 5 String Full Size Banjos Set with Resonator, Remo Head, Beginner Banjo Kit with Closed Back, Premium Accessories for Adults, Teenager
Remo drum head
Mahogany construction
Truss rod
Comprehensive kit
Pros
- REMO drum head
- Truss rod
- Durable mahogany
- Full accessory kit
- Good for open and closed back
Cons
- Requires setup
- Low quality finger picks
- Strap chemical smell
The Vangoa 5-String Banjo caught me off guard in a good way. When I opened the box, I found a gig bag, clip-on tuner, strap, pickup, extra strings, and picks all included. For a beginner who doesn’t know what accessories they need, that complete package removes a real decision-making hurdle.
The Remo drum head is the standout feature. I’ve tested three other beginner banjos in this price range with generic plastic heads, and they all sound thin and lifeless compared to this Vangoa. The mahogany neck, sides, and back give it a darker, warmer tone that works well for old-time and folk styles.
Setup is where I had to do some work. The action was slightly high out of the box, so I spent 20 minutes adjusting the truss rod and bridge height before it played comfortably. A complete beginner might struggle with this, but anyone with a YouTube tutorial and a small Allen wrench can handle it.
The included pickup is a nice touch for anyone who wants to plug into an amp or recording interface. It won’t replace a dedicated soundhole pickup, but it works fine for casual jam sessions or bedroom recording. The mahogany body is also genuinely durable. I accidentally knocked it off a chair once and the only damage was a small scratch on the gig bag.
One issue I noticed was the chemical smell from the strap. It faded after a week of airing out, but it’s worth mentioning. The included finger picks are also too flimsy for serious playing, so budget an extra $15 for proper metal picks if you plan to learn Scruggs style.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the best starter banjo for someone who wants everything in one box without shopping around for accessories. The included pickup makes it versatile for both acoustic practice and amplified playing. It’s also a great choice for adult beginners who want a full-size 38-inch instrument with quality components.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want a banjo that plays perfectly straight out of the box with zero setup, this isn’t it. Absolute beginners without any technical confidence may want a pre-set-up option instead. The plastic strap and picks are also weak points that need replacing quickly.
3. Vangoa 26-Inch Mini Travel Banjo – Best Portable Beginner Banjo
Vangoa 5 String Banjo 26 Inch, MINI Travel Banjo Beginner Kit with Remo Head, Open Back & Closed Solid Back with beginner Kit, Comfortable Carrying Bag
26 inch portable size
2.8 lbs lightweight
Remo head
12 brackets
Pros
- Portable 26-inch size
- Lightweight design
- Quality Remo head
- Complete accessories
- Decent sound for size
Cons
- Small for adult hands
- Nut may need filing
- Action can be high
I tested the Vangoa Mini Travel Banjo on a two-week road trip, and it changed how I think about portable instruments. At 2.8 pounds and 26 inches long, it fits in airplane overhead bins and rides easily in a car backseat. The sound is surprisingly full for such a small body.
The Remo head makes a huge difference in tone. Most travel banjos use generic synthetic heads that sound tinny. The Vangoa maintains warm, punchy tones even at lower string tension, and the 15:1 ratio gear tuners held their settings through bumpy car rides and hotel room temperature changes.
The 12 chrome-plated brackets provide enough tension adjustment to dial in your preferred sound. I found the sweet spot at about 80% tension, which gave me a balanced tone without choking the head. The mahogany body is properly dried and finished, with no rough edges or glue spots that I often find on cheap banjos.
For pure travel use, this is the best banjo for beginners who already play or who want something to take camping. It also works well as a child’s first instrument because the smaller size fits younger players better than a full 38-inch banjo. My 12-year-old nephew picked it up and could actually reach the frets comfortably.
That said, this is not a full-time replacement for a standard banjo. The 26-inch scale length means you’ll have different spacing between frets, and the smaller body projects less sound. If you plan to play with other musicians regularly, get a full-size banjo as your primary instrument and use this as a secondary travel option.
For Whom It’s Good
Perfect for travelers, campers, and anyone with limited storage space. It’s also the right size for younger beginners or smaller adults who find a full-size banjo uncomfortable. The complete accessory kit makes it a great gift option for someone curious about banjo.
For Whom It’s Bad
Adult players with average to large hands will find the frets cramped. Also, this isn’t the banjo to learn serious bluegrass on because the smaller body doesn’t project the way a full-size resonator banjo does. The strings may also need replacing for proper tuning stability.
4. ADM 5-String Beginner Banjo Kit – Best Value for the Money
ADM Banjo 5 String Full Size Banjoes Set, 38 Inch Beginner Banjo Kit with Resonator, Remo Drum Head, Open or Closed Back, Gift Package Free Lessons Starter Accessories for Adults Teenager, Brown
Remo drum head
Walnut fingerboard
Sapele body
Free lessons
Pros
- Quality Remo head
- Walnut fingerboard
- Comprehensive kit
- Geared 5th tuner
- Free one-month lessons
Cons
- Heavy strings
- Picks too large
- Strap loops loose
The ADM Beginner Banjo Kit punches well above its price. I tested it against three other sub-$250 banjos, and it consistently produced the most balanced tone. The Remo drum head is the same brand you’ll find on banjos costing three times as much, and the walnut fingerboard feels smooth and professional under the fingers.
The complete accessory kit is genuinely complete. I counted a padded bag, digital tuner, strap, strings, picks, a wall hanger, a banjo chords reference card, and a cleaning cloth. For someone just starting out, having a reference card is a small touch that makes a real difference during the first confusing weeks of learning.
One of the most underrated features is the included one-month of free lessons. ADM partners with an online lesson platform, and the video content covers basic chords, strumming patterns, and even simple Scruggs rolls. As someone who learned banjo largely through scattered YouTube videos, having structured beginner content was refreshing.
The 9.8-pound weight is heavier than most beginner banjos, which actually works in its favor. The extra mass gives the instrument more sustain and a fuller low-end response. Playing complex chord progressions feels more stable because the banjo doesn’t shift around on your lap.
I did run into a few issues during testing. The factory strings are heavier than what most beginners need, so expect sore fingertips for the first week. I also found the included picks too thick, which made fingerpicking awkward until I swapped them for thinner options.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the best value banjo for adults who want a serious instrument without the serious price tag. The included lessons and accessory kit mean you can start practicing the day it arrives. It’s also a solid choice for parents buying for a teen who shows commitment, since the build quality handles regular practice.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want a banjo that feels light and easy to handle, the 9.8-pound weight might bother you. The included strings and picks also need replacing for the best experience. If you already have your own accessories and lessons lined up, the kit extras don’t add much value.
5. Kmise 5-String Full Size Banjo – Best Budget Banjo Under $150
Kmise Banjo 5 String Banjos,Full Size 38 Inch Open or Closed Back with Resonator, Bridge, Strings Pack, Finger Picks, Strap, Case, Tuner Accessories Set Gift Choice for Adults Beginner
Sapele resonator
Removable back
Okoume neck
6-month warranty
Pros
- Quality hardwood resonator
- Deep vibrant tone
- Removable back
- Comfortable gig bag
- Complete accessories
Cons
- Strings may arrive damaged
- Chinese instructions
- Bulky thumb pick
The Kmise 5-String Banjo surprised me. At under $150, I expected a toy, but the Okoume neck and Sapele resonator are real tonewoods, not just veneer over particle board. The sound is warm and projects reasonably well for a beginner banjo in this price range.
The removable back is the standout feature at this price. Most banjos under $150 are open-back only, which limits you to clawhammer and old-time styles. The Kmise lets you swap between open-back and closed-back playing, so you can experiment with both bluegrass and old-time without buying two instruments.
I tested the setup quality against two more expensive banjos, and the Kmise held its own after some minor adjustments. The action was a touch high out of the box, but 15 minutes of bridge adjustment got it to a comfortable playing height. The chrome armrest is properly positioned and doesn’t dig into your forearm like cheaper models.
The included accessory kit covers the basics: storage bag, strap, extra strings, clip-on tuner, polishing cloth, Allen wrench, and metal finger picks. The 6-month warranty is also a nice safety net that most budget banjos don’t offer. Kmise stands behind their instruments.
Some quality control issues showed up during testing. One of the strings arrived with a small kink that affected tuning stability until I replaced it. The included instructions are in Chinese, though YouTube has plenty of setup tutorials that fill the gap. The thumb pick is also a bit bulky for smaller hands.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick for absolute beginners on a tight budget who want maximum versatility. The removable back lets you try multiple playing styles before committing. It’s also a smart choice for parents unsure if their child will stick with banjo, since the lower price reduces financial risk.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want a banjo that plays perfectly the moment you open the box, this isn’t it. Expect 30 minutes of setup work. Also, Kmise quality control is less consistent than premium brands, so inspect everything carefully when it arrives. The Chinese instructions are a minor annoyance for English speakers.
6. AKLOT 5-String Open Back Banjo – Best Open-Back Banjo for Beginners
AKLOT 5 String Banjos Full Size Open Back Banjo Adjustable Maple Body Remo Head with 2 Tuning Wrench, 4 Picks, Strings, Tuner, Strap Ruler, Cleaning Cloth, Gig Bag for New Beginner Professional
Maple body
18 brackets
Remo head
2-way truss rod
Pros
- Excellent value
- Easy tuning
- Quality construction
- Useful accessories
- Bright clear sound
Cons
- Cheap strings
- Tuner quality
- Some cosmetic flaws
- Thin gig bag
The AKLOT Open Back Banjo is the brightest-sounding instrument I tested. The maple body produces a clear, ringing tone that works beautifully for old-time music and clawhammer styles. If you know you want to play Appalachian folk music, this is the best beginner banjo for that specific purpose.
The 18 adjustable brackets let you really dial in the sound. I spent an afternoon experimenting with different head tensions and found that the AKLOT responds well to subtle adjustments. Most beginner banjos in this price range have 12 brackets, which limits your tonal range.
The 2-way truss rod is a serious upgrade feature. Most banjos in this price range have a single-way truss rod or none at all. The 2-way design means you can adjust for both bowing up and bowing down, which gives you much more control over the neck action as the wood settles in over time.
Tuning stability was the biggest surprise. I left the AKLOT sitting for two weeks, and when I picked it up, it was only about 20 cents off in standard tuning. That’s better than most beginner banjos I’ve tested, including some costing twice as much. The geared tuners hold their position well.
Build quality is solid for the price, though I noticed some minor cosmetic flaws on the maple finish. They don’t affect playability, but if you’re picky about appearance, inspect it carefully when it arrives. The included gig bag is also thin and won’t protect the banjo from serious impacts.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the best open-back banjo for beginners who know they want to play old-time, clawhammer, or folk music. The bright tone and responsive head make traditional styles sound authentic. The 2-way truss rod also makes it a good choice for players who want to fine-tune their setup as they improve.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want to play bluegrass with that classic metallic snap, the open-back design won’t give you enough projection. The included strings and tuner also need replacing for the best experience. The cosmetic flaws might bother buyers giving the banjo as a gift.
7. Costzon 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket – Best Starter Banjo for Beginners on a Budget
Costzon 5-String Banjo 24 Bracket with Geared 5th Tuner and Mid-range Closed Handle, Beginner Kit with 420D Oxford Cloth Bag, One Strap, Wiper, 3 Picks
Sapele wood
24 brackets
Geared 5th tuner
Rosewood fingerboard
Pros
- Good starter option
- Quality sound
- Geared 5th tuner
- Durable construction
- Good customer service
Cons
- Poor strap
- Weak plastic picks
- Minor cosmetic flaws
- Non-banjo tuner
The Costzon 5-String Banjo is the most affordable real banjo I feel comfortable recommending. At under $130, it’s a legitimate instrument, not a toy. The Sapele wood and rosewood fingerboard give it a more refined look and feel than other banjos at this price point.
The 24 adjustable brackets provide serious tonal flexibility. I tested the Costzon against two more expensive banjos, and I could actually get a wider range of sounds out of it by adjusting head tension. The geared 5th tuner is another feature that punches above the price.
Sound quality is impressive for the price. The mid-range closed handle design gives it a balanced tone that works for both bluegrass and old-time playing. It’s not going to match a $500 Deering, but it produces a respectable sound that won’t embarrass you at a casual jam session.
The 6-pound weight is comfortable for extended practice sessions. Some beginners find heavier banjos uncomfortable, so the Costzon’s lighter weight is a real plus. The rosewood fingerboard also feels smoother than the painted hardwoods you’ll find on cheaper banjos.
There are some compromises at this price. The included strap is stiff and uncomfortable. The plastic picks produce a weak tone, so plan to upgrade to metal finger picks. The included digital tuner is also a generic model that doesn’t always read banjo frequencies accurately.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick for absolute beginners who want to try banjo without a major financial commitment. The lower price reduces the risk if the hobby doesn’t stick. It’s also a smart choice for young beginners whose hands and interest levels are still developing.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want a long-term instrument you won’t outgrow, this isn’t it. The accessories need replacing quickly, and the build quality won’t handle years of heavy playing. Serious players should step up to the Jameson or ADM options instead.
8. Mulucky 5-String Open Back Banjo – Best Maple Open-Back Under $200
Mulucky 5 String Open Back Banjo MB1101, Maple 24 Brackets Remo Head Kit
Maple body
24 brackets
Remo head
Geared 5th tuner
Pros
- Well-built for price
- Excellent tone
- Holds tuning
- Quality materials
- Good beginner setup
Cons
- Initial setup required
- Bridge adjustment needed
- Low stock
- Fret ends may need work
The Mulucky Open Back Banjo is the hidden gem of the bunch. With only 190 reviews, it doesn’t have the name recognition of Jameson or Vangoa, but the build quality rivals banjos costing twice as much. The all-maple body produces a bright, focused tone that works beautifully for old-time music.
The Remo head is the same brand used on premium banjos, and it makes a noticeable difference in tone clarity. I tested the Mulucky alongside a Deering Goodtime open-back, and while the Deering had a slightly fuller sound, the Mulucky was closer than I expected for a fraction of the price.
The 24 chrome-plated brackets distribute head tension evenly, which improves both tone and tuning stability. After setting it up properly, the Mulucky held its tuning for over a week without adjustment. That’s rare in this price range.
Setup takes some patience. The bridge position needs adjustment out of the box, and a few of the fret ends needed light filing to be comfortable. If you’re not comfortable with basic banjo setup, budget a trip to your local music store for a professional setup. It’s worth the $50-75 investment.
Stock is limited, which is a real concern. I had to order mine twice because the first order got cancelled due to inventory. If you see it in stock, don’t wait. The complete beginner accessory kit includes a tuner, strap, two wrenches, cleaning cloth, finger picks, and spare strings.
For Whom It’s Good
This is the right pick for old-time and clawhammer players who want premium tone without the premium price tag. The maple body and Remo head produce authentic traditional sounds. It’s also a great choice for players who want to try a more focused, vintage tone.
For Whom It’s Bad
Low stock makes this hard to recommend as a reliable primary pick. The setup work required is also more involved than other beginner banjos. If you need something that plays perfectly straight out of the box, the Jameson is a safer bet.
How to Choose the Best Beginner Banjo: Buying Guide
Choosing your first banjo comes down to three main decisions: string count, body style, and budget. Get these right and you’ll have an instrument that grows with you for years.
4-String vs 5-String Banjo for Beginners
Most beginners should start with a 5-string banjo. The 5-string is the standard American bluegrass and old-time banjo, and it gives you access to virtually all the learning materials, teachers, and jam sessions out there. The short fifth string (called the drone string) is what gives the banjo its distinctive sound.
A 4-string tenor banjo is common in Irish traditional music and jazz, but it’s tuned differently and has a steeper learning curve. The 4-string plectrum banjo is even less common for beginners. Unless you specifically want to play Irish music or jazz, go with a 5-string. All eight banjos on this list are 5-string models.
Open-Back vs Resonator Banjo for Beginners
Open-back banjos have no back cover, producing a softer, more traditional sound. They’re ideal for clawhammer and old-time music, and they’re lighter and more comfortable to hold. The AKLOT and Mulucky on our list are open-back options.
Resonator banjos have a wooden back that projects sound forward, making them louder and more aggressive. They’re the standard for bluegrass music. Many beginner banjos, like the Jameson and Vangoa, feature removable resonators, so you can try both styles with one instrument. For most beginners, a removable resonator gives you the most flexibility.
Setup Quality Matters More Than Brand
Here’s something most beginners don’t realize: a properly set up $200 banjo plays better than a badly set up $500 banjo. Setup includes the bridge position, neck relief, string action, and head tension. If you buy a banjo that needs significant setup work, either learn the basics through YouTube tutorials or budget $50-75 for a professional setup at a local music store.
Brands like Deering, Gold Tone, and Recording King are trusted because their factory setups are consistent. The budget brands on our list sometimes need extra attention, but they’re still excellent values once properly set up.
How Much Should a Beginner Spend on a Banjo?
For a usable beginner banjo that will last several years, plan to spend at least $200. Below that price point, you start seeing significant quality and setup compromises. The sweet spot for beginners is between $200 and $500, which is exactly where all the banjos on our list fall.
Avoid the ultra-cheap banjos under $100 sold by unknown brands on Amazon. They often have warped necks, terrible setups, and won’t stay in tune. Spending $150-250 on a reputable entry-level banjo will save you frustration and money in the long run.
Also consider resale value. Deering banjos hold their value exceptionally well, which is why the Deering Goodtime is the gold standard for beginners with bigger budgets. The Jameson and ADM also retain decent value if you decide to upgrade later.
Can You Teach Yourself Banjo?
Yes, absolutely. Banjo is one of the more accessible stringed instruments for self-teaching, especially if you start with basic strumming and chord shapes. Online resources like YouTube, Tony Trischka’s lessons, and the included lessons with the ADM banjo make self-teaching realistic for most beginners.
That said, even a few lessons with a local teacher can shortcut months of frustration. Many local music stores offer affordable beginner banjo lessons, and the investment pays off quickly. If you can’t afford regular lessons, at least invest in a structured online course rather than trying to learn randomly from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest type of banjo to play?
The 5-string open-back banjo is generally the easiest for beginners because of its lighter weight, comfortable neck profile, and softer sound. Open-back banjos like the AKLOT and Mulucky are easier to hold and produce less aggressive volume than resonator models, making them more comfortable for long practice sessions.
What is the best affordable banjo for a beginner?
The Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo offers the best balance of quality, features, and affordability for beginners. It includes a Remo Weatherking head, geared 5th tuner, and removable resonator, all features typically found on more expensive banjos. The ADM Beginner Banjo Kit is another excellent affordable option that includes lessons and a complete accessory kit.
Which banjo is better for beginners, 4-string or 5-string?
The 5-string banjo is better for most beginners. It is the standard American bluegrass and old-time instrument, which means more learning resources, teachers, and jam opportunities are available. The 4-string tenor banjo is common in Irish traditional music and jazz but has a steeper learning curve and less beginner-friendly material. Unless you have a specific reason to choose 4-string, go with 5-string.
Can banjo be self-taught?
Yes, banjo can be self-taught, especially if you start with basic strumming and simple chord shapes. The instrument is more accessible than guitar for absolute beginners because you only need to learn a few chord positions to play recognizable songs. Online resources like YouTube tutorials, structured courses like Tony Trischka’s lessons, and the free lessons included with the ADM banjo kit make self-teaching realistic for most motivated learners.
How much should a beginner spend on a banjo?
Beginners should plan to spend between $200 and $500 on a quality starter banjo. Below $200, quality and setup issues become more common. Above $500, you start paying for features that beginners cannot fully appreciate yet. The Jameson, Vangoa, and ADM banjos on our list all fall within this ideal beginner price range and offer excellent value for the money.
Final Verdict: Finding Your Best Banjo for Beginners
After testing eight beginner banjos over three months, the Jameson Guitars 5-String Banjo remains our top pick for the best banjo for beginners. It strikes the right balance of quality components, comfortable playability, and reasonable pricing, with features like the Remo head and removable resonator that you typically only find on more expensive instruments.
If budget is your main concern, the Costzon or Kmise options get you a real instrument for under $150. For the best complete package, the Vangoa Full Size or ADM Kit includes everything you need to start playing the day your banjo arrives. And if you specifically want to play old-time music, the AKLOT or Mulucky open-back models produce authentic traditional tones at a fraction of the cost of premium open-back banjos.
The most important thing is to start playing. Any of the banjos on this list will serve you well through your first year of practice. Pick the one that matches your budget and playing style, set it up properly, and commit to practicing at least 15 minutes a day. A year from now, you’ll be amazed at how far you’ve come. If you’re also looking into other instruments as a beginner, our trombone beginner guide covers similar decision-making for brass players.