It is larger than the mandola, but smaller than the mandocello and its construction is similar to other instruments in the mandolin family.

The names of the mandolin family instruments vary between Europe and the United States.

Octave mandolin construction is similar to the mandolin: The body may be constructed with a bowl-shaped back according to designs of the 18th century Vinaccia school, or with a flat (arched) back according to the designs of Gibson Guitar Corporation, popularized in the United States in the early 20th century.

From the mid-20th century on, a number of makers have produced octave mandolins with guitar-shaped (e.g., the "hourglass" or "figure 8") bodies.

These instruments are typically constructed essentially like acoustic guitars, with similar woods and internal bracing.