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Best Clarinet for Beginners 2026

7 durable student Bb soprano clarinets from Yamaha, Buffet, and Jupiter

Updated

BEST OVERALL
Yamaha YCL-255
$5 on Reverb
BEST VALUE
Buffet B12
$5 on Reverb
BEST BUDGET
Jupiter JCL-700N
$5 on Reverb
BEST PRO JUMP
Selmer CL211
$5 on Reverb

Starting clarinet as a beginner? You need a reliable, affordable instrument that sounds good and holds up to daily practice. The used clarinet market has excellent options from established brands like Yamaha, Buffet, and Jupiter—all known for durability and playability.

Whether you're renting from a school or buying your first clarinet, know what to look for: key action, intonation, pad condition, and bore size. Most student clarinets are Bb soprano (the standard), and good used models start around $150–$300.

The 7 Best Clarinet for Beginners

#1

Yamaha YCL-255

Best overall student clarinet · Plastic body · 17 Boehm system keys · nickel-plated keywork$280–$420 used

Best for: Students moving from school rentals to personal ownership

Yamaha's YCL-255 is the gold standard for student clarinets. It's durable, in-tune, and responsive—essentials for building technique. Resale value is strong because band directors recommend it.

What to check used: Avoid models with damaged pads or sticky keys. Listen for air leaks when all keys are closed.

Available now

#2

Buffet B12

Best budget name-brand · Plastic body · 17 keys · nickel silver keywork · German design$200–$320 used

Best for: Budget-conscious beginners who want pedigree

Buffet is France's legendary clarinet maker. The B12 gives you that pedigree at entry-level pricing. Slightly warmer tone than Yamaha, easier to play softly.

Available now

#3

Jupiter JCL-700N

Best balanced value · Plastic body · 17 keys · reinforced pinky keys · Japanese design$250–$380 used

Best for: Students who want durability and responsive feel

Jupiter clarinets punch above their price. The JCL-700N has reinforced pinky keys (less breakage) and a quick, responsive feel. Good used availability.

Available now

#4

Selmer CL211

Best for wood-tone preview · Plastic body · wood-lined barrel · 17 keys · Selmer heritage$220–$340 used

Best for: Students wanting a touch of wood tone warmth

Selmer's wood-lined barrel adds complexity to tone without the maintenance of a full wood clarinet.

Available now

#5

Mendini MCT

Best absolute budget · Plastic body and keys · 17 keys · includes care kit$80–$140 used

Best for: Absolute beginners testing waters before committing

Mendini is the budget entry point. Used examples are plentiful and cheap. Playable for practice.

What to check used: Plastic keywork is fragile. Check mechanism for bent keys or damage.

Available now

#6

Buffet E11

Best wood upgrade · Grenadilla wood body · nickel-plated keys · German keywork$350–$520 used

Best for: Serious students who want to skip plastic entirely

Jump from plastic to wood? E11 is the sweet spot—warmer, more responsive, and teaches tone control faster.

What to check used: Wood cracks if dried out. Store with humidifier in winter.

Available now

#7

Buffet RC Prestige

Best pro-level student · Grenadilla wood · silver-plated keys · advanced keywork · professional$800–$1200 used

Best for: Advanced students eyeing college auditions

At this price, you're buying a clarinet that grows with you for years. Tone depth, intonation, and key feel are pro-level.

Available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Plastic or wood clarinet for beginners?

Plastic (resin) clarinets are durable, affordable, and hold up to mistakes. Wood clarinets sound warmer and teach tone control faster, but need care (humidifier storage, swabbing). Start plastic, upgrade to wood once you're comfortable.

What size is a beginner clarinet?

Almost all student clarinets are Bb soprano—the standard size. Alto and bass clarinets exist but 99% of beginners play Bb soprano.

How much should I spend?

$200–$350 used is the sweet spot. Under $100 may have reliability issues. Over $500 used is likely pro or advanced.

What condition problems should I watch for?

Listen for squeaks or cracks when keys are pressed (pads not sealing). Check barrel and body for cracks or chips. Sticky keys are fixable; bent keys cost money to repair.

Do I need a case, reeds, and swab?

Yes. Most used clarinets come without these. Budget $30 for hard case, $5 for reeds (buy a box of 25), $10 for swab.

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