The Tangi Tiny - Is this the Smallest Ukulele in the World?
At Ukuleles Unanimous, we’ve seen our fair share of quirky, charming, and eyebrow-raising instruments. But when we got wind of a ukulele that could fit in the palm of your hand, we had to ask: Is the Tangi Tiny the smallest ukulele in the world? And more importantly - does it actually play?
Spoiler alert: Yes… kind of. But we’ll get to that.
What is the Tangi Tiny?
If you thought a soprano uke was small, wait until you meet the Tangi Tiny – a ukulele so petite it makes other ukes look like giants. Claimed to be the world’s smallest playable ukulele, the Tangi Tiny has captured the curiosity of players and collectors alike. But is it all just a novelty, or is this tiny instrument a must-have for uke lovers? Let’s find out!
Where is it from?
The Tangi Tiny is straight from the brilliant (and slightly cheeky) minds at Tangi Ukuleles in Hawaii, the Tangi Tiny isn’t your average uke. This minuscule marvel measures in at around 6 to 7 inches long - roughly the size of a dessert spoon. Crafted from real koa wood, just like its full-sized cousins, the Tangi Tiny is more than a novelty - it’s a love letter to luthier craftsmanship in miniature form. This tiny marvel is fully functional, complete with real strings, tuners, and a surprisingly resonant sound.
The Tangi ‘Tiny’ Ukulele
So… Can You Actually Play It?
Technically? Yes. Musically? Let’s just say… don't expect to shred ‘While My Guitar Gently Weeps’ on this thing. Let’s be honest, playing the Tangi Tiny is not for the faint of heart. Its diminutive size means:
Tight spacing The fretboard is incredibly small, making it tricky for those with larger fingers to navigate.
Unique sound While it produces a clear tone, the sound is understandably more delicate and lacks the depth of larger ukuleles.
Challenging tuning Keeping the strings in tune can be a test of patience, but once you’ve mastered it, the reward is worth it.
With four strings (yes, actual strings) and tiny frets carved into the neck, the Tangi Tiny can produce sound. However, unless your fingers are the size of toothpicks, you won’t be strumming ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ any time soon. Despite these quirks, many players find joy in the challenge and love the novelty of playing such a tiny instrument.
The Smallest Ukulele in the World?
Now, we hear you asking - is it officially the smallest ukulele in the world?
To our knowledge (and after some serious digging), yes, it just might be. While there are plenty of miniature ukes and novelty instruments out there, none seem to match the authentic build quality, playability (however limited), and sheer cuteness factor of the Tangi Tiny.
Unless someone’s secretly carving ukes out of matchsticks in a hidden workshop, the Tangi Tiny holds the crown.
Small is beautiful 😊
Why it’s Captured the Hearts of Uke Fans
So, what makes the Tangi Tiny so special? It’s more than just its size. Here are a few reasons uke fans love it:
1. Craftsmanship Despite its small size, the Tangi Tiny is built with the same attention to detail as full-sized ukuleles.
2. Playful appeal It’s hard not to smile when you see (or play) such a tiny instrument.
3. Conversation starter Bring it to your next jam session, and you’ll instantly become the star of the group.
Should you get a Tangi Tiny?
Let’s be real - this isn’t your next gigging uke. But if you:
Collect rare or unusual instruments
Want the perfect gift for a uke-obsessed friend
Love Hawaiian craftsmanship
Just like really small things
Then the Tangi Tiny is calling your name. It's less of an instrument, more of an art piece - and it’ll look incredible on your shelf.
So, if you’re looking for a unique addition to your ukulele collection or a fun challenge, the Tangi Tiny is a delightful choice. It’s not going to replace your soprano or concert uke, but that’s not the point. The Tangi Tiny is all about celebrating the joy of ukulele music in the most compact way possible.
Final Thoughts
In a world full of big sounds, sometimes the tiniest instruments make the biggest impression. So, is it the smallest ukulele in the world? Probably. Is it the cutest? Absolutely.
Have you seen a smaller ukulele? Or do you have a Tangi Tiny of your own? Drop a comment below or tag us on Instagram @ukulelesunanimous - we’d love to see your mini masterpieces!
Watch Will Grove-White, of Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain fame, playing a great piece of cool jazz on a Tangi Tiny - It certainly makes a soprano look like a giant!
Happy strumming 😊
Will Grove-White playing a Tangi Tiny Ukulele!
