The violin is the smallest, followed by the viola, which is only slightly bigger and looks similar. The cello is significantly larger than the first two and the bass is the largest. The size of the strings also varies in both thickness and length, which plays a role in the instrument's range of notes.

A viola is larger than a violin but smaller than a cello, and it’s tuned a fifth below the violin, making it mid-range where the cello is bass. Bow Differences: The bow of a cello is shorter and heavier than that of a viola, which reflects in their differing techniques and sound production.

Both the violin and viola are played under the jaw. The viola, being the larger of the two instruments, has a playing range that reaches a perfect fifth below the violin's. The cello is played sitting down with the instrument between the knees, and its playing range reaches an octave below the viola's.

The violin produces high-pitched clear notes and for that reason, it is a prominent solo or melody instrument. The viola produces lower notes, but not as low as the cello, and the tone is mellower. That makes the viola a perfect balancer between the string instrument family.

Choosing between violin vs. viola vs. cello or bass often comes down to the learning curve associated with each. Violins and violas, with their similar fingerboard layout, demand precise intonation and agility. The more prominent cello, when played upright, requires a different physical approach, blending bowing finesse with finger strength.