Ever dream of strumming your favorite songs, the sweet sound of an acoustic guitar filling the air? That dream can start today! But choosing your very first guitar can feel like navigating a maze. So many guitars look similar, and it’s tough to know which one will actually sound good and be easy to play. You want a guitar that makes learning fun, not frustrating.
That’s where this guide comes in! We’re going to break down everything you need to know about picking the perfect starter acoustic guitar. We’ll talk about what makes a guitar great for beginners and what to avoid. You’ll learn how to find a guitar that feels comfortable in your hands and sounds amazing, helping you learn faster and enjoy every moment of your musical journey.
Get ready to discover the secrets to choosing a starter acoustic guitar that will spark your passion and set you on the path to becoming a confident player. Let’s find the guitar that’s just right for you!
Our Top 5 Starter Acoustic Guitar Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Starter Acoustic Guitar Detailed Reviews
1. Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Black)
Rating: 8.8/10
Ready to learn guitar? The Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package in sleek black is your perfect starting point. This all-in-one kit is designed for students and teens who want to dive into the world of music. It’s a right-handed acoustic guitar that comes with everything you need to start playing right away.
What We Like:
- This guitar is built for beginners. It has 18 smooth frets and 6 steel strings that are easy to play. The neck is comfortable to hold.
- You get a complete starter kit! It includes the guitar, a gig bag, picks, a strap, a digital tuner, a pitch pipe, and an extra set of strings. An instructional sheet is also included.
- The guitar sounds great. It’s made from laminated basswood, which gives it a warm and versatile sound. It projects well, meaning your music will be heard clearly.
- It’s the right size for learners. The 38-inch guitar is lightweight and not too big, making it easy to handle.
- The high-gloss finish looks stylish and modern. The guitar is built to last, so you can enjoy playing it for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a fantastic beginner guitar, serious musicians might want to upgrade to a more professional instrument later on.
- The included picks are for basic strumming. You might want to buy different types of picks for different playing styles as you improve.
This Ashthorpe guitar package offers fantastic value for anyone starting their musical journey. It’s an excellent way to begin learning the guitar with all the essentials included.
2. Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to strum your first chords? The Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar in Sunburst is designed with new players in mind. This guitar brings the classic Fender sound and style to a beginner-friendly package. It’s built for comfort, making learning enjoyable from the very first note.
What We Like:
- It’s a great choice for beginners of any age.
- Fender’s 75 years of experience means quality craftsmanship.
- You get free access to Fender Play, with tons of video lessons.
- The dreadnought body gives a big, full sound perfect for country or folk music.
- The “C” shaped neck and light body feel comfortable to hold and play.
- Tuning is easy and accurate with the sealed-gear tuners.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for beginners, more experienced players might seek a more complex tone.
- The included strings might benefit from an upgrade for some users.
This Fender FA-25 is an excellent starting point for anyone wanting to learn guitar. Its thoughtful features and supporting lessons make the journey fun and rewarding.
3. Best Choice Products 38in Beginner All Wood Acoustic Guitar Starter Kit w/Gig Bag
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to strum your first song? The Best Choice Products 38in Beginner All Wood Acoustic Guitar Starter Kit in Matte Black is your all-in-one ticket to learning the guitar. This kit gives you everything you need to start playing right away, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to pick up a new hobby.
What We Like:
- It’s a complete package: You get a gig bag, strap with a pick holder, extra strings, picks, a capo, and a cleaning cloth. No need to buy anything else!
- Learn with lessons: It comes with 4 months of free lessons from Fret Zealot, which includes an app with a tuner and thousands of songs.
- Comfortable for everyone: The guitar has a classic shape that feels good to hold, and it’s great for teenagers and adults.
- Easier to play: The strings are closer to the fretboard, which means less finger pain.
- Nylon strings are gentle: They are easier to press down, sound beautiful, and help the guitar stay in tune.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s a great starter kit, the sound quality might not satisfy advanced players.
- The included gig bag is basic and may not offer much protection for long-term storage or travel.
This guitar starter kit makes learning fun and accessible. It’s an excellent way to begin your musical journey without breaking the bank or getting overwhelmed.
4. Yamaha 6 String Beginner Solid Spruce Top Traditional Western Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar With Rosewood FIngerboard
Rating: 9.1/10
The Yamaha FG800J NT is a fantastic acoustic guitar designed with new players in mind. It’s a traditional Western dreadnought, meaning it has a classic look and a big sound. This guitar is built to help you learn and grow as a musician.
What We Like:
- IDEAL FOR BEGINNERS: This guitar is perfect for anyone just starting out, whether you’re learning your first chords or beginning to write your own songs.
- QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP: Yamaha puts great care into making each FG guitar. They use carefully chosen woods and beautiful finishes. Quality checks ensure it’s built to last.
- GREAT SOUND: The solid spruce top and large body produce a bright, balanced sound. You’ll get a bold bass response that projects well.
- QUALITY MATERIALS: The back and sides are made from nato and mahogany. This gives the guitar a warm, full tone and makes it strong and durable.
- RELIABLE HARDWARE: It features quality hardware and appointments that work well. You can count on this guitar to perform reliably for years.
What Could Be Improved:
- While excellent for beginners, more advanced players might eventually seek richer tonal complexities found in higher-end models.
- The natural finish, while beautiful, can show smudges more easily than darker finishes.
Overall, the Yamaha FG800J NT is an outstanding choice for anyone starting their guitar journey. It offers great sound and quality construction that will support your musical development.
5. Best Choice Products 41in Beginner Acoustic Guitar Full Size All Wood Cutaway Guitar Starter Set w/Case
Rating: 9.3/10
The Best Choice Products 41in Beginner Acoustic Guitar is a fantastic all-in-one package for anyone wanting to learn or play guitar. This full-size, all-wood guitar comes in a sleek black finish and includes everything a beginner needs to get started right away. It’s designed for comfort and ease of play, making it a great choice for both new and experienced musicians.
What We Like:
- This set is truly complete! You get a carrying case, extra strings, a strap with a pick holder, a pick guard, a cleaning cloth, a capo, and a set of picks. You don’t need to buy anything else.
- The 41-inch dreadnought shape produces a warm, pleasing sound that’s great for beginners and intermediates.
- The padded carrying case is protective and stylish. It even has a shock-proof bottom and a front pocket for your accessories.
- The guitar itself is comfortable to hold and play, thanks to its 41-inch size.
- It looks great with its classic design and elegant inlay. The cutaway lets you easily reach higher notes on the fretboard. The included pick guard protects the guitar’s finish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the tone is pleasant, some advanced players might prefer a richer sound from a higher-end instrument.
- The included picks are basic; serious players might want to invest in a variety of pick types.
This guitar set offers excellent value and makes learning music accessible. It’s a well-rounded option for anyone looking to pick up the guitar.
Your First Strum: A Beginner’s Acoustic Guitar Buying Guide
So, you want to learn guitar? That’s awesome! An acoustic guitar is a fantastic place to start. It’s portable, doesn’t need any extra gear like an amp, and sounds great for strumming songs around a campfire or just practicing in your room. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one? This guide will help you find your perfect starter acoustic guitar.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re just starting, focus on a few important things.
Comfort is King
- Body Size: Guitars come in different sizes. A smaller body, like a “concert” or “parlor” size, is easier for smaller people or younger players to hold and play. A “dreadnought” is bigger and louder, which is great for strumming, but can feel a bit bulky at first.
- Neck Profile: This is the shape of the back of the guitar neck. A “C” shape is common and feels comfortable for most hands. You don’t want a neck that’s too thick or too thin for your liking.
- Action: This is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Lower action makes it easier to press down the strings, which is crucial for beginners. High action can make your fingers hurt and make playing harder.
Sound Matters
- Tone: Even beginner guitars can sound good! Listen for a clear, balanced sound. It shouldn’t sound too tinny or muddy.
- Playability: This is how easy and enjoyable the guitar is to play. A well-set-up guitar feels good in your hands and makes learning fun.
Important Materials
The wood a guitar is made from affects its sound and how it ages.
The Woods of Your Guitar
- Spruce Top: This is a very common wood for the guitar’s top (the front part). Spruce gives a bright, clear sound that opens up nicely as the guitar is played more.
- Mahogany Back and Sides: Mahogany provides a warm, rich tone. It’s a popular choice for a reason.
- Rosewood Fingerboard: The fingerboard is where you press down the strings. Rosewood is smooth and durable, offering a good feel.
- Laminate vs. Solid Wood: Many starter guitars use laminate wood, which is layered. This makes them more affordable and durable. Solid wood guitars generally sound better and improve with age, but they cost more. For a starter, laminate is perfectly fine.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things can make a big difference in how good a starter guitar is.
Making a Good Guitar Great
- Construction: Look for a guitar that is well-built. The edges should be smooth, and the glue joints should be neat.
- Fretwork: The frets (the metal strips on the neck) should be smooth and level. If they’re sharp or uneven, it can make playing uncomfortable and affect the sound.
- Tuning Machines: These are the knobs you turn to tune the guitar. Good tuning machines hold the tune well and are smooth to operate.
What to Watch Out For
- Poor Setup: A guitar that isn’t set up properly will have high action, buzz when you play, or not stay in tune. This can be fixed, but it’s better to start with a well-adjusted instrument.
- Cheap Hardware: Flimsy tuning machines or a bridge that looks poorly attached can cause problems.
- Cracks or Dents: Obviously, avoid guitars with any damage.
User Experience and Use Cases
A starter acoustic guitar is designed for learning and fun.
Your Guitar Journey
- Learning Chords: You’ll spend a lot of time practicing basic chords. A comfortable guitar makes this much less frustrating.
- Strumming Songs: Once you know a few chords, you can start playing along to your favorite songs.
- Practice: A starter acoustic is perfect for daily practice sessions to build your skills.
- Casual Playing: Take it to a friend’s house, play it in your backyard, or just relax with it.
A good starter acoustic guitar makes learning enjoyable and helps you build a solid foundation for your musical journey. Don’t be afraid to try a few out if you can!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Starter Acoustic Guitars
Q: What is the most important thing for a beginner guitar?
A: The most important thing is comfort and playability. A guitar that’s easy to hold and play will make learning much more fun and less painful for your fingers.
Q: Do I need a “cutaway” guitar?
A: A cutaway is a scoop in the guitar’s body near the neck. It makes it easier to reach the highest frets. For most beginners, it’s not essential, but some players like it.
Q: Should I buy a used guitar?
A: Yes, you can find great deals on used starter guitars. Just make sure to check it carefully for any damage or setup issues before buying.
Q: What size guitar is best for a child?
A: For younger children (under 8), a 1/2 or 3/4 size guitar is usually best. For older children and teens, a full-size guitar might be suitable. It’s best to have them try one out.
Q: How important is the brand of a starter guitar?
A: Brand can matter, but don’t get too caught up in it. Many reputable brands make excellent starter guitars. Focus more on the features and how the guitar feels and sounds.
Q: What is “intonation”?
A: Intonation is how in tune the guitar is all the way up the neck. A guitar with good intonation will sound in tune when you play chords or single notes on higher frets.
Q: Can I upgrade parts on a starter guitar?
A: Yes, you can upgrade parts like tuning machines or the bridge saddle to improve sound and playability. However, for a starter, focus on getting a good instrument first.
Q: How do I take care of my new acoustic guitar?
A: Keep it in a case when not playing. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity. Wipe it down with a soft cloth after playing to remove sweat and oils.
Q: What accessories do I need with a starter acoustic guitar?
A: You’ll likely need a pick, a tuner (clip-on tuners are easy to use), and maybe a strap. A gig bag or case is also recommended for protection.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good starter acoustic guitar?
A: A good quality starter acoustic guitar can range from $150 to $300. You can find decent options for less, but investing a little more often gets you a better playing experience.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!