The guitar is one of the world’s most popular instruments, but it’s not alone. Across cultures and history, there are many guitar like instruments that share similarities in shape, tuning, or playing technique. From mandolins to ouds, resonators to baritone guitars, each brings a unique voice to music. If you’re a guitarist looking to expand your sound or simply curious about alternatives, this guide will explore the most fascinating guitar relatives and review the best instruments you can buy today.
Quick Picks – Best Guitar Like Instruments
- Ibanez M510 Mandolin – Best Entry-Level Alternative (~$349).
- Gold Tone Weissenborn-Style Lap Guitar – Best Slide Option (~$399).
- Oscar Schmidt OU5 Concert Ukulele – Best Small-Scale Instrument (~$329).
Buyer’s Guide – What to Look for in Guitar Like Instruments
Not every guitar alternative suits every player. Here’s what to consider:
- Tuning & Scale Length – Some instruments (baritone guitars, mandolins) use very different tunings and string tensions. Consider if you want familiarity or a fresh challenge.
- Genre Fit – Mandolins shine in bluegrass, ouds in Middle Eastern music, and resonators in blues.
- Playability – Wider string spacing and different fretting systems can take adjustment.
- Amplification – Some alternatives come acoustic-only, others include pickups for stage performance.
- Budget – Entry-level instruments can be had for under $500, while professional, hand-built ones exceed $2,000.
Detailed Product Reviews – Premium Guitar-Like Instruments
1. Gibson F-5 Mandolin
Who it’s for: Bluegrass and folk players wanting a high-end mandolin.
- Carved spruce top, maple back/sides.
- Classic F-style mandolin with ornate scrollwork.
- Bright, choppy tone perfect for bluegrass chop chords.
Pros: Legendary build, projection, and tone.
Cons: Expensive (~$8,000).
Verdict: The gold standard for mandolin players.
2. National Style O Resonator
Who it’s for: Blues slide players looking for vintage tone.
- Metal body with hand-engraved finish.
- Single-cone resonator design.
- Loud, metallic, soulful tone.
Pros: Iconic blues sound, stunning craftsmanship.
Cons: Heavy and pricey (~$4,000).
Verdict: A must-have for serious blues musicians.
3. Taylor 326ce Baritone-8
Who it’s for: Guitarists wanting a deep, baritone voice.
- Solid mahogany top, Tasmanian blackwood back/sides.
- Baritone tuning (B to B) with octave strings for shimmer.
- Grand Symphony body for huge projection.
Pros: Unique sound palette, perfect for modern songwriting.
Cons: Niche instrument (~$2,600).
Verdict: A dream baritone for adventurous players.
4. Godin MultiOud Encore
Who it’s for: Players exploring Middle Eastern and world music.
- Modern take on the traditional oud.
- Built-in electronics for amplified performance.
- Fretless neck with nylon strings.
Pros: Versatile, stage-ready world instrument.
Cons: Fretless learning curve (~$2,300).
Verdict: A perfect oud for fusion musicians.
5. Collings MT Mandolin
Who it’s for: Folk players wanting boutique craftsmanship.
- Hand-carved spruce top, maple back/sides.
- A-style mandolin design for a warm tone.
- Exceptional playability and finish.
Pros: Boutique quality, sweet tone.
Cons: High price (~$3,200).
Verdict: A high-end alternative to the Gibson F-5.
6. Ramirez Professional Flamenco Guitar
Who it’s for: Classical and flamenco players.
- Solid spruce top, cypress back/sides.
- Fast action and percussive attack.
- Handcrafted in Spain.
Pros: Legendary flamenco sound.
Cons: Very specialized (~$5,000).
Verdict: A premium nylon-string alternative to steel-string guitars.
Comparison Table
| Instrument | Type | Tone Character | Approx Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gibson F-5 Mandolin | Mandolin | Bright, percussive | $8,000 |
| National Style O | Resonator | Loud, metallic, bluesy | $4,000 |
| Taylor 326ce Baritone | Baritone Guitar | Deep, rich, modern | $2,600 |
| Godin MultiOud | Oud | Warm, fretless, exotic | $2,300 |
| Collings MT | Mandolin | Sweet, warm, boutique | $3,200 |
| Ramirez Flamenco | Flamenco Guitar | Fast, percussive | $5,000 |
FAQ
- What is the closest instrument to a guitar? The baritone guitar is closest, tuned lower but with the same shape and feel.
- Are mandolins hard to play if I already play guitar? They have a different tuning (in fifths), but chord shapes and picking skills transfer well.
- What’s the difference between a resonator and a regular guitar? Resonators use spun metal cones for sound projection, giving them a metallic, bluesy tone.
- Which guitar-like instrument is best for beginners? The ukulele is often the easiest to start with—small size, soft strings, and simple chords.
Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Exploring guitar like instruments is a great way to expand your musical creativity. From the high-pitched chime of a mandolin to the deep growl of a baritone, each offers new textures and inspiration. Whether you’re into folk, blues, flamenco, or world music, there’s a guitar alternative that can take your playing to new places.
If you want a versatile starting point, try the Ibanez M510 Mandolin. For blues, the National Style O Resonator is iconic. And if you’re ready for deep, rich tones, the Taylor 326ce Baritone is a powerful choice. Expand your collection, and you’ll expand your musical voice.