Violas are larger than violins. A full-size violin’s body is about 14 inches long, whereas a full-size viola’s body is 16 to 17 inches long. Violas are also wider than violins, giving them the proportions that make them look huge. Besides that, violins come in nine different sizes, while violas only come in four.

The violin is smaller than the viola, sometimes by up to 25%. The size difference is proportional, so the viola is longer, wider and taller than a violin with a longer neck and larger fixings. The body of a viola is typically between 38cm and 43cm long whereas the violin has a body that is 35.5cm long (4/4).

The violin is a bit smaller than the viola. A typical full-size violin is about 36 cm (14 inches) while a full-size viola is around 40 cm (about 16 inches). Even though this size might vary, it is no smaller than 38cm. Therefore, it is still bigger than the violin. Also, the body of the instrument is wider and deeper.

A viola is considerably larger than a violin. Measuring the back length of the instrument a full-size viola typically measures 16 inches (406mm). Full-size violins, meanwhile, have a 14-inch length of back (358mm). Violas are also somewhat wider than violins and have taller ribs, giving the overall appearance of a fuller form.

While a full-sized violin will typically measure 36cm or 14 inches from tailpiece to scroll, a professional viola for adults is considerably longer, measuring about 42cm or 16 ½ inches in total. Due to this extra length, violas contain more material and mass than violins, resulting in more weight.