10 Best Banjos 2025 in the United States

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.

One standout feature is the Zero-glide nut system, which helps with tuning stability and makes playing more comfortable. The inclusion of a gig bag is also a nice touch, providing protection and ease of transport for players on the go. With 20 frets and a scale length that accommodates various playing styles, the AC-1 is versatile for different musical genres.

The open-back design does mean that it may not project sound as powerfully as resonator banjos, which could be a consideration for those looking to play in louder settings or with other instruments. Additionally, while the build quality is generally good, those seeking premium materials might find the composite body a bit less appealing than traditional wood.

The Gold Tone AC-1 is a solid entry-level banjo that balances affordability with decent features, making it ideal for beginners who want a lightweight and versatile instrument. It may not suit advanced players or those needing high-volume projection, but for its target audience, it serves its purpose well.

The Deering Goodtime 2 is a 5-string resonator banjo designed with bluegrass players in mind, featuring a maple neck and a 3-ply maple/poplar resonator rim that helps produce a bright, focused sound typical of this style. Its neck has a comfortable 'D' shape with 22 nickel silver frets, which gives you plenty of room to play, and a standard 1 1/4" nut width that feels familiar to most players. The resonator design means the banjo projects well and has a louder, punchier tone compared to open-back models, making it a great option for stage or jam sessions where volume and clarity matter.

Weighing around 6.5 kg (14 lbs), it’s a bit on the heavier side, which is common for resonator banjos, so some players might find it less comfortable for long playing sessions. The instrument includes features like a 3-ply poplar resonator with a 13 7/8" diameter, a high crown frosted head for bright tone, and bronze powder-coated hardware which adds durability and stylish looks. It also comes with a hard case, which is a nice bonus for protection and transport.

While its price places it in the mid-range category, the quality of materials and craftsmanship from Deering—made in the USA—makes it a trustworthy choice for beginners wanting a serious instrument or for intermediate players looking for a reliable, great-sounding banjo. If you prefer a lighter banjo with a mellower tone, you might want to explore open-back models instead, but for bluegrass and louder playing styles, this banjo performs very well.

The Deering Goodtime 5-String Openback Banjo is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate players looking for an American-made instrument. One of its major strengths is its build quality, featuring a blonde slender rock maple neck, durable satin finish, and a 3-ply violin-grade maple rim. This construction ensures a sturdy, resonant instrument with a pleasing tone.

The banjo is lightweight at approximately 4.5 lbs, making it easy to handle and play for extended periods without fatigue. It also comes with a padded gig bag, tuner, mute, and picks, providing a comprehensive starter package for new players. The 22 nickel silver frets and geared tuners contribute to its ease of playability and tuning stability, important for those just starting out. The open-back design gives it a traditional, mellow sound, which is suitable for folk and clawhammer styles of playing.

However, it might not be the best choice for bluegrass players who typically prefer the louder, brighter sound of a resonator banjo. Additionally, the satin finish, while durable, may not appeal to those who prefer a glossier look. At around $3.56 kilograms, it is relatively lightweight but still substantial enough to feel like a quality instrument. The overall length of 37.5 inches and the scale length of 26.25 inches are pretty standard, ensuring familiar playability for most players.

In summary, the Deering Goodtime 5-String Openback Banjo is an excellent starter instrument with high-quality components, ideal for those interested in folk and traditional styles.