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10 Best Bluegrass Banjos 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Gold Tone AC-1: 5-String Beginnner Banjo, Full Size with Gig-Bag, Bluegrass or Clawhammer
The Gold Tone AC-1 is a 5-string beginner banjo that caters well to those just starting out with bluegrass or clawhammer styles. One of its standout features is the composite rim open back design, which keeps the weight down to just one pound, making it very manageable for new players to hold and play for extended periods.
#2
Gold Tone OB-150: Orange Blossom Banjo with Case, 5-String Banjo
The Gold Tone OB-150 is a solid choice for bluegrass enthusiasts looking for a reliable 5-string banjo. One of its standout features is the 11" brass flat top tone ring, which contributes to a bright and clear sound—ideal for the fast-paced style of bluegrass music. The resonator is made from 14" maple, which helps project the sound, making it a great option for performances or jam sessions. Its construction includes a 3-ply maple rim and a rosewood fingerboard, both of which enhance playability and durability.
#3
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Resonator Nickel Hardware Bluegrass Banjo with Deluxe Padded Bag, Strings, Dunlop Finger and Thumb Picks, True Tune Rechargeable Tuner, Mute, Bundle Starter Package
The Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Resonator Bluegrass Banjo is a well-crafted instrument that comes with several useful accessories, making it a great starter package for beginners and intermediate players. One of its key strengths is the blonde slender rock maple neck, which boasts a durable satin finish and 22 pressed-in nickel-silver frets. This design ensures a comfortable grip and smooth playability.
Rating
9.7
Resonator
Most important from
13 reviews
Top 10 Best Bluegrass Banjos 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
9.9 score
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
Rim: Composite
Head: Remo frosted
Bridge: Maple with Ebony Cap
Strings: Nickel-plated steel
Chosen by 1419 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
Resonator: 14" maple
Tone Ring: 11" brass flat top
Rim: 3-ply maple
Head: 11" Remo HC Coated Head
Strings: Alloy Steel
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Resonator Nickel Hardware Bluegrass Banjo with Deluxe Padded Bag, Strings, Dunlop Finger and Thumb Picks, True Tune Rechargeable Tuner, Mute, Bundle Starter Package
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Resonator Nickel Hardware Bluegrass Banjo with Deluxe Padded Bag, Strings, Dunlop Finger and Thumb Picks, True Tune Rechargeable Tuner, Mute, Bundle Starter Package
Resonator: Maple
Neck Material: Blonde rock maple
Rim: 11-inch 3-ply violin-grade maple
Head: Deering frosted top high crown
Bridge: 5/8-inch maple/ebony
Strings: Light gauge
Americana 5-String Banjo by Deering
Americana 5-String Banjo by Deering
Neck Material: Rock Maple
Rim: 3-ply violin-grade maple
Head: Renaissance
Strings: Nickel
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Maple Resonator Bluegrass Banjo Nickel Hardware with Instrument Alley Hard Case, Rechargeable Tuner, Dunlop Picks Bundle - Made in the USA
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Maple Resonator Bluegrass Banjo Nickel Hardware with Instrument Alley Hard Case, Rechargeable Tuner, Dunlop Picks Bundle - Made in the USA
Resonator: poplar/poplar/maple
Neck Material: rock maple
Rim: 3-ply violin-grade maple
Head: 11" high crown frosted
Strings: Stainless Steel
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Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Maple Resonator Bluegrass Banjo 1920's Art Deco Inlay Bronze Powder Coat Hardware with Instrument Alley Hard Case Combo
Deering Goodtime 2 5-String Maple Resonator Bluegrass Banjo 1920's Art Deco Inlay Bronze Powder Coat Hardware with Instrument Alley Hard Case Combo
Resonator: Poplar, Maple
Neck Material: Rock Maple
Rim: 3-ply Violin Grade Maple
Strings: Stainless Steel
Gold Tone AC-5: Beginner 5-String Banjo with Resonator, Bluegrass Banjo with Gig-Bag
Gold Tone AC-5: Beginner 5-String Banjo with Resonator, Bluegrass Banjo with Gig-Bag
Resonator: Composite
Neck Material: Maple
Rim: Composite
Strings: Nickel
Ibanez B200 Banjo - Natural
Ibanez B200 Banjo - Natural
Tone Ring: Rolled-brass
Neck Material: Mahogany
Rim: Basswood
Head: Remo Weatherking
Strings: Nickel
Deering Goodtime Two Resonator 5-String Banjo | Perfect Beginner Bluegrass Banjo
Deering Goodtime Two Resonator 5-String Banjo | Perfect Beginner Bluegrass Banjo
Resonator: Yes
Neck Material: rock maple
Rim: 3-ply violin maple
Head: frosted mylar
Bridge: maple and ebony
Strings: alloy steel
#10
8.2 score
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)
Resonator: Maple
Tone Ring: Brass
Neck Material: Maple
Strings: Nickel
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Buying Guide for the Best Bluegrass Banjos
Choosing the right bluegrass banjo can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Bluegrass banjos are known for their bright, sharp sound and are a staple in bluegrass music. When selecting a banjo, it's important to consider several key specifications that will affect the instrument's playability, sound, and overall quality. Understanding these specs will help you find the best fit for your needs and preferences.ResonatorThe resonator is the back part of the banjo that projects sound forward, giving bluegrass banjos their distinctive, loud, and bright tone. Resonators are typically made of wood and can vary in quality and construction. If you are looking for a traditional bluegrass sound, a banjo with a resonator is essential. For beginners, a basic resonator will suffice, while more advanced players might look for higher-quality wood and construction for better sound projection.
Tone RingThe tone ring is a metal ring that sits between the banjo's head and the rim, significantly affecting the instrument's tone and volume. There are different types of tone rings, such as flathead and archtop, each producing a unique sound. Flathead tone rings are common in bluegrass banjos and provide a rich, full sound. Archtop tone rings offer a brighter, sharper tone. Beginners might start with a flathead tone ring for its versatility, while more experienced players can choose based on their specific sound preference.
Neck MaterialThe neck material of a banjo affects its durability, playability, and tone. Common materials include maple, mahogany, and walnut. Maple necks are known for their bright, clear tone and are often preferred in bluegrass banjos. Mahogany necks provide a warmer, mellower sound, while walnut offers a balance between the two. Your choice should depend on the type of sound you prefer and the feel of the neck in your hands.
RimThe rim is the circular wooden part of the banjo that holds the head and tone ring. It plays a crucial role in the instrument's overall sound and stability. Rims are typically made from multi-ply wood, with higher-quality banjos using more plies for better sound and durability. For beginners, a standard multi-ply rim will work well, while advanced players might seek out rims with more plies or higher-quality wood for improved tone and resonance.
HeadThe head of the banjo is the membrane stretched over the rim, which vibrates to produce sound. Banjo heads can be made from different materials, such as plastic or animal skin, and come in various thicknesses. Plastic heads are common and provide a bright, consistent tone, while animal skin heads offer a warmer, more traditional sound but require more maintenance. Beginners might prefer a plastic head for its ease of use, while more experienced players can experiment with different materials to find their preferred tone.
BridgeThe bridge is a small piece of wood that supports the strings and transfers their vibrations to the head. Bridges come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, affecting the banjo's tone and playability. A well-crafted bridge can enhance the instrument's sound, while a poorly made one can detract from it. Beginners should look for a standard bridge that provides good support and sound, while advanced players might experiment with different materials and designs to fine-tune their tone.
StringsBanjo strings come in different gauges (thicknesses) and materials, affecting the instrument's playability and tone. Lighter gauge strings are easier to play and produce a brighter sound, making them suitable for beginners. Heavier gauge strings offer a fuller, louder tone but require more finger strength. The material of the strings, such as nickel or stainless steel, also influences the sound. Beginners should start with light to medium gauge strings and experiment with different materials to find their preferred tone.