10 Best Banjos 2026 in the United States

The Washburn Americana Series B16K-D is a 5-string banjo designed with a maple resonator and rim, giving it a bright, full sound that suits bluegrass and other traditional styles well. Its maple neck and flame maple back offer sturdy construction and a polished tobacco sunburst finish that looks appealing. Equipped with a Remo banjo head and an ebony-tipped maple bridge, it delivers clear, crisp tones with good articulation.

The included planetary chrome tuners allow for smooth and stable tuning, which is great for beginners and intermediate players. Weighing around 9 pounds, it’s a bit on the heavier side, typical for resonator banjos, which might affect comfort during long playing sessions. The 28-inch scale length and ebony fretboard provide a familiar feel and good playability. The chrome armrest adds extra comfort, a nice touch for extended use.

This banjo is a solid pick for those looking for a resonator banjo with balanced sound and reliable build, although the heavier weight could be a consideration depending on personal playing style and needs.

The Deering Goodtime Special 5-String Banjo boasts several features that make it a solid choice for both beginners and experienced players. The resonator design, with a blonde maple neck and rim, offers a traditional and appealing look. The neck is made of slender rock maple with 22 pressed-in nickel silver frets, providing durability and a comfortable playing experience. It also has geared tuners, making tuning easier and more stable.

The pot features a 3-ply violin grade maple rim and a patented steel tone ring, which contribute to its loud, crisp, and clear sound. The 11-inch frosted top head and nickel-plated hardware add to the instrument's quality and longevity. The resonator, made of blonde maple with black binding, ensures that the sound is projected effectively in a band setting. Weighing approximately 8 lbs, this banjo is relatively lightweight and easy to handle during extended play sessions. However, it is important to note that it may still be a bit heavy for very young or smaller players.

The scale length of 26 1/4 inches and 22 frets offer a standard setup for most banjo players. One potential downside is that it might not be the best fit for those seeking a more budget-friendly option, as it is priced higher than entry-level models. Additionally, while the bell-like tone is excellent for band settings, it might be too loud for solo practice in smaller, quieter environments. The Deering Goodtime Special 5-String Banjo is perfect for those who want a high-quality, resonator-style banjo with a clear and powerful sound, suitable for various playing environments.

The Recording King RK-R35-BR is a resonator-style banjo built mainly from maple, including its neck and body, which helps produce a bright and clear sound favored in bluegrass music. It features a Mastertone-style bell brass tone ring, known to enhance volume and tonal richness, making it suitable for players who want a strong, punchy sound. The neck includes an adjustable truss rod, allowing for easy setup and maintaining playability over time. With a 26.125-inch scale length and a rosewood fretboard, it offers a comfortable playing experience and standard fret count for most banjo styles.

Weighing 7.5 pounds, it is on the heavier side for banjos, which might be a consideration for players looking for a lighter instrument during long sessions. The banjo sports a polished hand-rubbed brown finish that gives it a classic and attractive look. This banjo represents a solid choice for intermediate players who want a reliable and traditional resonator banjo with good volume and tonal clarity. Beginners might find it a bit heavy, and those seeking an open-back banjo for folk or clawhammer styles should look elsewhere, as this model is designed more for bluegrass or similar genres.