Ever dream of strumming your favorite songs or even writing your own? That first guitar is a gateway to a whole new world of music! But let’s be honest, stepping into a guitar shop or browsing online can feel overwhelming. So many guitars look cool, but which one is actually good for someone just starting out?
Choosing the wrong starter guitar can be a real bummer. It might be uncomfortable to hold, difficult to play, or just not sound very good. This can make learning feel like a chore instead of fun, and some people even give up before they really get going. We don’t want that to happen to you!
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. We’ll break down the important things to look for, explain what makes a guitar great for beginners, and help you avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident and ready to pick out the perfect instrument that will make your musical journey exciting from day one.
Our Top 5 Starter Guitar Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Starter Guitar Detailed Reviews
1. Best Choice Products 38in Beginner All Wood Acoustic Guitar Starter Kit w/Gig Bag
Rating: 8.9/10
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 has everything a new player needs to get started right away, from the guitar itself to all the essential accessories. Its classic design and thoughtful features make it a comfortable and enjoyable instrument to learn on, perfect for anyone looking to pick up a new hobby.
What We Like:
- Complete Package: This kit includes a gig bag, strap with a pick holder, extra nylon strings, 6 picks, a capo, and a cleaning cloth. You won’t need to buy anything else to start playing.
- Free Guitar Lessons: Get 4 months of free lessons from Fret Zealot. These lessons cover all skill levels and include thousands of songs. The Fret Zealot app also has a built-in tuner.
- Comfortable for All Ages: The guitar’s classic shape feels good in your hands. Its size and accessories make it easy for teenagers and adults to play.
- Easy to Play: Nylon strings are softer on your fingers, making it less painful to press down. They also help the guitar stay in tune and produce a nice sound. The fretboard is closer to the strings, which reduces finger strain.
- Stylish Matte Black Finish: The guitar looks cool with its modern matte black color.
What Could Be Improved:
- Nylon Strings: While easier to play, nylon strings produce a mellower tone compared to steel strings. This might not be ideal for players aiming for a bright, traditional acoustic sound.
- Beginner Focus: This kit is designed for beginners. More experienced players might find the materials and sound quality limiting for advanced techniques or professional use.
This starter kit makes learning the guitar accessible and fun. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to begin their musical journey without any hassle.
2. Ashthorpe 30-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Blue)
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to strum your first tune? The Ashthorpe 30-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package in vibrant blue is your perfect partner for starting your musical journey. This guitar is designed especially for young musicians and teens taking their first steps into the world of acoustic music. It’s a complete package, meaning you get everything you need to start playing right out of the box.
What We Like:
- This guitar is built for beginners. It has 18 smooth frets and 6 steel strings that are easy for new players to handle. The neck is comfortable to hold.
- The starter kit is super complete. You get the guitar, a gig bag to carry it in, picks, a strap, a digital tuner to help you stay in tune, and even an extra set of strings. An instructional sheet is included to get you going.
- The guitar sounds great. It has a bright, clear tone and good projection, so your music will be heard.
- It’s lightweight and the perfect size for learners. Measuring 30 inches long, it’s easy to hold and manage.
- The guitar is made from quality tonewoods like laminated basswood. This makes it sound warm and it’s built to last through your practice sessions.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the included tuner is helpful, some advanced players might prefer a clip-on tuner for quicker adjustments.
- The gig bag offers basic protection, but for travel, a more padded case would be ideal.
This Ashthorpe guitar package is an excellent starting point for anyone eager to learn. It provides a fun and accessible way to discover the joy of playing music.
3. Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Black)
Rating: 9.2/10
Dreaming of strumming your favorite songs? The Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package in sleek black is your perfect starting point. This guitar is made for students and teens who are just learning. It comes with everything you need to begin your musical journey right away.
What We Like:
- Designed for beginners with 18 smooth frets and easy-to-hold neck.
- Comes with a complete starter kit: guitar, gig bag, picks, strap, tuner, pitch pipe, and extra strings.
- Made from quality laminated basswood for a warm, versatile sound.
- Produces a bright and impressive tone with great projection.
- Lightweight and full-sized at 38 inches, making it comfortable for learners.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructional sheet might be very basic for some learners.
- While good for beginners, advanced players might find the sound quality limited.
This Ashthorpe guitar package offers fantastic value for new musicians. It’s a wonderful way to start playing music without breaking the bank.
4. Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Rating: 9.0/10
Embark on your musical journey with the Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar. This beautiful sunburst guitar is made for beginners of all ages. Fender has been making great instruments for 75 years. The FA Series brings you the classic Fender acoustic sound and style. It’s built with special features that make learning easy and fun.
What We Like:
- It’s a perfect beginner guitar for everyone.
- You get a subscription to Fender Play for free lessons.
- The dreadnought body gives a big, rich sound great for country, folk, and bluegrass music.
- The “C”-shaped neck is easy to hold and play.
- It has a light body for comfortable playing.
- Sealed-gear tuning machines help you stay in tune.
- The walnut bridge helps produce the best sound.
- It comes with a 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While designed for beginners, more advanced players might eventually want a guitar with more complex features.
- The sunburst finish, while classic, might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
This Fender FA-25 is a fantastic starting point for anyone wanting to learn guitar. Its user-friendly design and included lessons make mastering your favorite songs achievable.
5. Yamaha 6 String Beginner Solid Spruce Top Traditional Western Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar With Rosewood FIngerboard
Rating: 8.9/10
The Yamaha FG800J NT is a fantastic acoustic guitar designed specifically for those just starting their musical journey. Its classic dreadnought shape and natural finish make it look as good as it sounds, and it’s built to be a reliable companion for years of practice and play.
What We Like:
- IDEAL FOR BEGINNERS: This guitar is perfect for anyone learning their first chords or starting to write songs.
- QUALITY CRAFTSMANSHIP: Yamaha uses carefully chosen woods and checks every detail to make sure each guitar is a lifelong partner.
- GREAT SOUND: The solid spruce top and large body give it a bright, balanced sound with a strong bass.
- WARM TONE: Nato and mahogany back and sides create a warm, full-bodied sound that lasts.
- RELIABLE PARTS: Quality hardware means it will perform well every time you pick it up.
What Could Be Improved:
- While excellent for beginners, more experienced players might eventually desire a wider range of tonal complexities.
- The natural finish, while beautiful, can show minor scratches more easily than some darker finishes.
For anyone looking to start playing acoustic guitar, the Yamaha FG800J NT is an outstanding choice that offers great sound and quality at a beginner-friendly price.
Your First Strum: The Ultimate Starter Guitar Buying Guide
So, you want to learn guitar? That’s awesome! Picking your first guitar can feel a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry. This guide will help you find the perfect starter guitar so you can start making music.
Why a Starter Guitar?
A starter guitar is made for beginners. They are usually more affordable and easier to play. This means you can learn without spending a lot of money or getting frustrated with a difficult instrument.
Key Features to Look For
Body Type
There are two main types of guitars for beginners: acoustic and electric.
- Acoustic Guitars: These guitars don’t need an amplifier to make sound. They’re great for playing anywhere. They often have a warmer, fuller sound.
- Electric Guitars: These guitars need an amplifier to be heard. They are often easier to play because their strings are lighter. They can make a huge range of sounds.
Size
Guitars come in different sizes. A full-size guitar is good for most adults. Smaller guitars are perfect for kids or smaller adults. Make sure the guitar feels comfortable in your hands and when you hold it.
Action
Action refers to how high the guitar strings are from the fretboard. Lower action means the strings are closer to the fretboard. This makes it easier to press down the strings and play chords. A good starter guitar has low action.
Important Materials
Wood Type
The wood used to make a guitar affects its sound. For starter guitars, you’ll often see:
- Spruce: This is a common wood for the top of acoustic guitars. It gives a bright, clear sound.
- Mahogany: This wood is often used for the back and sides of guitars. It makes the sound warmer and richer.
- Maple: This wood is used for the neck and sometimes the body. It’s strong and helps the guitar sound bright.
Fretboard Material
The fretboard is where you press down the strings. Rosewood and maple are common. Both are durable and feel good to play on.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Build Quality
A well-built guitar feels solid. The neck should be straight, and the frets (the metal strips on the fretboard) should be smooth. Poorly built guitars can have sharp fret ends or a wobbly neck. This makes them hard to play and sound bad.
Brand Reputation
Some guitar brands are known for making good starter guitars. Brands like Fender, Epiphone, Yamaha, and Ibanez often have great options for beginners. Doing a little research on the brand can help.
Setup
Even a good starter guitar might need a “setup.” This means a guitar expert adjusts it to play its best. They can fix the action, tune it perfectly, and make sure everything is just right. This makes a big difference!
User Experience and Use Cases
For the Aspiring Rock Star
If you dream of playing loud solos and rocking out, an electric starter guitar is your ticket. You’ll need an amplifier and a cable, but the possibilities for sound are endless.
For the Campfire Singer
An acoustic starter guitar is perfect for singing along to your favorite songs around a campfire or just practicing quietly at home. It’s simple and always ready to play.
For the Young Learner
Smaller acoustic or electric guitars are ideal for children. They are easier to hold and manage, making the learning process more fun and less tiring.
Remember, the best starter guitar is one that inspires you to pick it up and play every day. Don’t be afraid to ask for help at a music store or online. Happy strumming!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the biggest difference between acoustic and electric starter guitars?
A: Acoustic guitars make sound on their own. Electric guitars need an amplifier to be heard.
Q: Do I need anything else besides a starter guitar?
A: For an acoustic, you might want a pick and a tuner. For an electric, you’ll need an amplifier, a cable, and picks. A case or gig bag is also a good idea for both.
Q: How do I know if a guitar is the right size for me?
A: The guitar should feel comfortable. You should be able to reach all the frets easily. If you’re unsure, ask a store employee or look up size charts.
Q: What does “low action” mean?
A: Low action means the strings are close to the fretboard. This makes it easier to press down the strings and play chords.
Q: Is it okay to buy a used starter guitar?
A: Yes, a used starter guitar can be a great deal! Just make sure to check it for any damage, like cracks or warped necks.
Q: How important is the brand of a starter guitar?
A: Brand can be important because some companies are known for making reliable beginner instruments. However, a well-made guitar from a less common brand can still be great.
Q: Can I learn fingerpicking on a starter guitar?
A: Yes, you can learn fingerpicking on any guitar, but some acoustic guitars are better suited for it than others. Nylon-stringed classical guitars are often recommended for fingerpicking beginners.
Q: What if the guitar sounds “buzzing”?
A: A buzzing sound can mean the strings are too low (low action) or that there’s an issue with the frets. A guitar setup can usually fix this.
Q: How often should I tune my guitar?
A: You should tune your guitar every time you play it. Strings can go out of tune easily, especially when they are new.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a starter guitar?
A: Local music stores are great because you can try out guitars. Online stores offer more choices, but you can’t play them first.
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!