The strange thing is, there's no reason for ukuleles to be the shape they are. Guitars are a figure-of-8 shape to allow you to rest it on your knee and get your arm over the top. Obviously, neither of these are any problem at all for the ukulele. So it was only a matter of time before the pineapple shape of ukulele. Because it is easier to make, this means you can pick up a cheap ukulele without compromising on quality.

The Lanikai LU-21P is a great example of this and perfect as a first time ukulele.

On Musician's Friend

Lanikai LU-11 Standard Ukulele Nato Fretboard Price: $46

On eBay

Lanikai LU 21P LU Series Soprano Pineapple Ukulele Uke lu21p    US $69.00

Lanikai LU 21P Pineapple Ukulele With Aquila Strings New    US $128.20

Lanikai LU 21P Pineapple Ukulele NEW IN BOX    US $69.00

Specifications

Size: Soprano (standard)
Construction: Nato top, back and sides.
Fretboard: Rosewood. 12 frets.
Bridge: Rosewood
Tuners: Geared, closed, die-cast.