* Key: B-flat
* Range: Low A♭ to High F♯
* Typical uses: Jazz, classical music, wind ensembles
E-flat soprano saxophone
* Key: E-flat
* Range: Low E♭ to High B♭
* Typical uses: Marching bands, military bands, jazz bands, ska bands
Comparison
The B-flat soprano saxophone is the most common type of soprano saxophone. It is pitched in the key of B-flat, which means that it sounds one whole tone lower than written. The E-flat soprano saxophone is less common, but it is pitched in the key of E-flat, which means that it sounds one whole tone higher than written.
The B-flat soprano saxophone has a warm, mellow sound, while the E-flat soprano saxophone has a brighter, more piercing sound. The B-flat soprano saxophone is also easier to play than the E-flat soprano saxophone, due to its lower pitch.
Overall, the B-flat soprano saxophone is the better choice for most players. The E-flat soprano saxophone is only recommended for experienced players who are looking for a brighter, more piercing sound.