10 Best Mandolins 2025 in the United States

The Loar LM-700-VS Supreme F-Style Mandolin is a beautifully crafted instrument that appeals to both beginners and more experienced players. One of its standout features is the solid hand-carved AAA spruce top, which contributes to its exceptional sound quality, providing bright and resonant tones. The flamed maple back and sides add not only to its aesthetic appeal but also enhance its tonal richness. The one-piece maple neck with a rounded 'V' profile gives a comfortable grip, making it easier to play for longer periods.

The bound ebony fretboard is a nice touch, offering smooth playability and a luxurious feel under the fingers. The hand-buffed nitrocellulose lacquer finish in a vintage sunburst gives it a classic look that many musicians appreciate. With a scale length of about 14 inches, this mandolin strikes a good balance between playability and tone.

This mandolin might feel a bit heavy for some players, especially during extended playing sessions. Additionally, while its manual operation mode is perfect for those who enjoy traditional play, it might not suit players looking for more modern, electronic features. In terms of suitability, this mandolin is ideal for folk, bluegrass, and classical music enthusiasts, providing a rich sound and professional quality that can cater to various playing styles. If you're looking for an instrument that combines craftsmanship with outstanding acoustic performance, the Loar LM-700-VS could be a great choice for you.

The Vangoa F-Style Mandolin offers both visual appeal and sound quality, making it a solid choice for beginner adults looking to explore this instrument. The F-Style design with intricate scrolls and a sunburst finish adds a touch of elegance and distinctiveness.

Crafted from AAA mahogany, the mandolin promises a warm and rich tone that stands out. The 29 frets and 8 strings contribute to its versatility, allowing for a broad range of notes and chords. The instrument also features a protective pickguard and open metal tuning pegs, which help in maintaining tuning stability and protecting the body from wear and tear.

Additionally, the all-in-one kit includes everything a beginner would need to start playing right away, which is a significant advantage for those new to the mandolin. However, some drawbacks include the potential for the finish to show wear over time and the manual craftsmanship, while beneficial for tone, might not be as consistent as machine-made instruments. If you prioritize a blend of aesthetic appeal and good sound quality in an entry-level mandolin, the Vangoa F-Style could be an excellent option for you.

The Ibanez M522 is an F-style acoustic mandolin known for its striking Dark Violin Sunburst gloss finish. It features a solid spruce top, which is recognized for producing a bright and resonant sound, perfect for both beginners and advanced players. The laminated maple back and sides contribute to the instrument's durability while giving it a visually appealing look.

The rosewood bridge and fingerboard add to the quality, providing a smooth playing experience. Weighing 3.8 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle during extended playing sessions. The scale length of 350 millimeters caters well to players with smaller hands, making it comfortable to play intricate melodies.

However, the use of laminated wood for the back and sides, as opposed to solid wood, may not appeal to purists looking for the best acoustic resonance. The adjustable bridge is a useful feature for fine-tuning the instrument to personal playing preferences. This mandolin would be best suited for folk, bluegrass, and country music enthusiasts who appreciate good craftsmanship and a beautiful finish at a reasonable price point.