10 Best Mandolins 2025 in the United States

The Loar LM-310F-BRB Honey Creek F-Style Mandolin is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a quality instrument that won't break the bank. One of its standout features is the hand-carved solid spruce top, which offers a bright and resonant sound—important for any mandolin. The maple back and sides contribute to its durability and enhance tonal quality, making it suitable for various musical styles, including bluegrass and folk.

The neck profile features a thin 'V' shape, which is comfortable for many players, especially those with smaller hands. The 1-1/8" nut width provides enough space for easy finger placement, making it less challenging for newcomers to grasp the chords. The satin brown burst finish not only gives it an attractive appearance but also adds to its overall playability.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. At 4 pounds, it may feel a bit heavy for extended playing sessions, which could be a drawback for some users. Also, while the quality is commendable, some players might find that it lacks the rich, complex tones of higher-end mandolins. The instrument's manual operation mode means that it requires a bit of care and skill to maintain, which could be a turn-off for absolute beginners. This mandolin is well-suited for players seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing instrument, especially those who are still developing their skills and want something that offers a good balance of affordability and quality.

The Kentucky KM-670 Mandolin is a solid choice for those seeking a high-quality instrument with a classic look and warm, rich tone. One of its main strengths is its top wood made of solid German spruce, which contributes to its exceptional note clarity and volume. Additionally, the solid Alpine maple back and sides offer extra projection, making it a great option for live performances or recording sessions.

The slim Alpine one-piece maple neck ensures comfortable playability, while the radiused rosewood fingerboard with polished nickel silver frets offers a smooth playing experience. The high-gloss sunburst finish adds to its traditional beauty and luster, making it visually appealing as well. The mandolin comes with a bag, which is a handy addition for transportation and protection.

It's important to note that the high-gloss finish might show fingerprints and smudges easily, and the instrument's weight of 1.5 pounds is relatively light, which could affect its durability over time. The Kentucky KM-670 Mandolin is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who are looking for a quality instrument with great tone and classic aesthetics.

The Kentucky KM-750 is an 8-string mandolin that stands out with its beautiful sunburst finish and high-quality materials. The solid German spruce carved top provides a crisp and bright tone, making it ideal for clean articulation. The solid flamed Alpine maple back and sides add extra projection and depth, giving the instrument a rich and resonant sound.

The slim Alpine maple neck ensures effortless playability, allowing for comfortable and easy action. Additionally, the Santos Rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth and responsive playing experience, which is important for more advanced techniques and extended playing sessions. The high-gloss sunburst finish adds a touch of classic beauty to the instrument, making it visually appealing.

However, it is important to note that the Kentucky KM-750 is a manual operation mandolin, which may not be suitable for beginners looking for an electric option. With an item weight of 1.7 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to handle, but the overall length of 27.63 inches might be slightly cumbersome for younger players or those with smaller hands. Despite its higher price point, the quality of materials and craftsmanship make the Kentucky KM-750 a great option for intermediate to advanced mandolin players looking for a traditional and well-crafted instrument.