It’s a common misconception that affordability equates to poor quality, especially when it comes to musical instruments. However, advancements in manufacturing have significantly lowered production costs, making it possible to acquire truly exceptional guitars without breaking the bank. This is precisely why we’ve compiled this guide to the Best Inexpensive Acoustic Guitars available today.
While the market is saturated with acoustic guitars, not all are created equal. With the right guidance, you can confidently choose an instrument that offers excellent playability, aesthetic appeal, and, most importantly, inspiring sound – all within a reasonable budget. We define “inexpensive” as guitars priced between $100 and $450. In our experience, venturing below this range often compromises quality to an unacceptable degree.
We’ve meticulously researched and selected some of the finest budget acoustic guitars from reputable brands like Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, and D’Angelico, among others. Each model in our selection promises a delightful playing experience and impressive tone. For those seeking further insights into the buying process, our FAQs section provides valuable information. Otherwise, continue scrolling to discover our top recommendations for inexpensive acoustic guitars.
Our Top Picks
The body of a Yamaha F335 acoustic guitar
Best Overall
- Yamaha F335
The Yamaha F335 stands out as an incredibly affordable option without compromising quality. This dreadnought guitar boasts the hallmarks of Yamaha craftsmanship, including a highly playable neck, exceptional build quality, and a rich, complex tone, all at a remarkably accessible price.
The body of an Epiphone Songmaker DR-100 acoustic guitar
Best for Beginners
- Epiphone Songmaker DR-100
The Epiphone Songmaker DR-100 is a consistently popular choice for those starting their acoustic guitar journey. This dreadnought acoustic offers a full, resonant voice, is available in multiple finishes, and delivers outstanding value, although its size might be a bit large for very young beginners.
The body of a DBest Electro-Acoustic
- D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS
The D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS is as visually striking as it is sonically pleasing. This versatile instrument excels across various musical styles and includes a built-in preamp and tuner, simplifying live performances and practice sessions.
Best Overall
Yamaha F335 acoustic guitar body showcasing spruce top and wood grain
(Image credit: Yamaha)
1. Yamaha F335
Yamaha proves that affordability doesn’t necessitate a compromise in quality with the F335.
Expert Review:
Yamaha’s reputation for producing quality instruments at accessible prices is well-established. Models like the FG800 and LL6 ARE are frequently featured in guides to the best acoustic guitars for beginners. However, the Yamaha F335 surpasses even these exceptional guitars in terms of affordability. Consistently priced under $200, the F335 is a popular entry-level dreadnought for aspiring guitarists for good reason.
Featuring a laminated spruce top combined with meranti back and sides, the F335 generates a classic acoustic tone, further enhanced by a rosewood fingerboard and bridge. Our tests confirmed the F335’s high build quality – a standard we expect from a musical instrument leader like Yamaha.
For those seeking the finest acoustic guitar under $200, the Yamaha F335 unquestionably deserves top consideration. It offers exceptional value without sacrificing the core qualities of a great acoustic guitar.
Specifications
Body: Laminated spruce & Meranti
Neck: Nato
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: No
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptionally playable neck
- Superb build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Dreadnought size may be cumbersome for younger or smaller beginners.
Best for Beginners
Epiphone Songmaker DR-100 acoustic guitar body in a natural finish
(Image credit: Epiphone)
2. Epiphone Songmaker DR-100
Epiphone’s Songmaker DR-100: A best-selling acoustic guitar for aspiring players.
Expert Review:
The Epiphone DR-100, now known as the Songmaker DR-100, has been a mainstay in guitar retail for many years. It provides an affordable entry point for individuals eager to explore the world of acoustic guitars. Much like the Yamaha F335, the Epiphone Songmaker DR-100 is a full-bodied dreadnought that delivers impressive tone despite its budget-friendly price.
Utilizing the time-tested combination of a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the DR-100 provides the quintessential Epiphone sound. Coupled with well-finished fret ends and reliable hardware, this guitar is ideally suited for starting your musical journey or rekindling a past passion for playing.
While Epiphone offers more upscale instruments in their extensive catalog – the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is a notable example – the value proposition of the DR-100 remains remarkable. This stylish six-string is affordable, playable, and sonically impressive, solidifying its position as one of the best acoustic guitars under $500.
Read our comprehensive Epiphone DR-100 review for a deeper dive into its features and performance.
Specifications
Body: Spruce & Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: No
Reasons to Buy
- Available in three attractive color options
- Projects a loud and resonant sound
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid
- Dreadnought body may be too large for very young players.
Best Electro-Acoustic
D'Angelico Premier Gramercy LS acoustic guitar body in a natural mahogany finish
(Image credit: D’Angelico)
3. D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS
The D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS: Proof that inexpensive can also be stylish.
Expert Review:
Since its successful re-entry into the guitar market, D’Angelico has consistently demonstrated its prowess. The Premier Gramercy LS exemplifies the company’s ability to produce exceptional entry-level acoustic guitars that rival, and in some cases surpass, competitors.
The Gramercy LS features a satin mahogany body, lending it a timeless aesthetic and contributing to a warm, mellow tone. We found this guitar to be equally well-suited for strumming and fingerpicking, exhibiting a versatile tonal character that accommodates various playing styles. The neck maintains D’Angelico’s signature slim profile, ensuring comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
Being in the upper range of the “inexpensive” category, the Gramercy LS includes added features, most notably onboard electronics. Equipped with a D’Angelico preamp and tuner, this beginner-friendly guitar is ready for stage performance at open mic nights or amplified practice sessions.
Notably, this visually appealing guitar is offered in three distinctive finishes: Natural Mahogany, Aged Mahogany, and Satin Vintage Sunburst, allowing players to choose a style that matches their personal preference.
Specifications
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Torrefied Merbau
Electronics: D’Angelico MG-30 Onboard Preamp/Tuner
Reasons to Buy
- Distinctive and stylish appearance
- Very comfortable slim neck profile
Reasons to Avoid
- Headstock design may not appeal to all players.
Best for Playability
Close-up of Fender California Newporter Player acoustic guitar body in red finish
(Image credit: Future)
4. Fender California Newporter Player Acoustic
The Fender California Newporter Player: Add a splash of color to your musical expression.
Expert Review:
The Fender Newporter Player immediately distinguishes itself from traditional acoustic guitars with its vibrant aesthetic. Departing from the usual subdued color schemes, it embraces Fender’s iconic custom finishes, including Candy Apple Red, Champagne, Olive Satin, and Ice Blue Satin.
The Newporter’s innovation extends beyond its finish. It features an exceptionally thin neck, reminiscent of electric guitars, and incorporates Fender’s signature 6-in-line headstock.
However, the Newporter is not merely about style. We observed that this solid-top Fender acoustic is well-constructed, dependable, and delivers outstanding sound quality. Combined with a Fishman preamp system, it’s a durable and sonically versatile instrument at a price point as attractive as its finish.
Read our in-depth Fender California Newporter Player Acoustic review for a complete analysis.
Specifications
Body: Spruce & Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Walnut
Electronics: Fishman® CD-1 Preamp
Reasons to Buy
- Solid Sitka Spruce top for enhanced resonance
- Available in a wide array of striking color options
Reasons to Avoid
- Non-traditional aesthetics may not appeal to purists.
Best for Comfort
Tanglewood Blackbird Super Folk acoustic guitar body in dark charcoal finish
(Image credit: Tanglewood)
5. Tanglewood Blackbird Super Folk
The Tanglewood Blackbird Super Folk: This Blackbird is truly made for singing.
Expert Review:
For many guitarists, Tanglewood is synonymous with affordable yet well-crafted acoustic guitars, particularly in the UK, where Tanglewood is recognized as the best-selling acoustic guitar brand.
While numerous Tanglewood models could have qualified for this list, the Blackbird series, with its smoky charcoal finish, stood out with its understated elegance and remarkably low price.
We found the super folk body size exceptionally comfortable, especially for players who find dreadnought or jumbo bodies cumbersome. The smaller body also contributes to a tighter, more focused tone, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing.
Specifications
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Techwood
Electronics: Tanglewood Premium Plus preamp
Reasons to Buy
- Integrated Tanglewood Premium Plus preamp system
- Comfortable body size, suitable for younger players
Reasons to Avoid
- Dark charcoal finish may not appeal to everyone’s taste.
Best for Gigging
Alvarez RG260CE Regent Series acoustic guitar body with cutaway in sunburst finish
(Image credit: Alvarez)
6. Alvarez RG260CE Regent Series
The Alvarez RG260CE Regent Series: An affordable option for performing musicians.
Expert Review:
If you need a dependable and budget-friendly acoustic-electric guitar for live performances, the Alvarez Regent Series RG260CESB electric-acoustic could be the ideal choice. Featuring a grand auditorium body, bi-level bridge, and scalloped bracing, it offers high-end features at an accessible price point.
Utilizing the classic combination of a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the Alvarez RG260CE produces a timeless acoustic tone. We noted warm, tight bass frequencies and a sparkling high end, delivering a sound quality that belies its price range.
We consider the RG260CE to be more than just a beginner model. It’s a well-made, excellent-sounding acoustic-electric guitar that offers exceptional value and performance.
Specifications
Body: Spruce & Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: Alvarez SYS250
Reasons to Buy
- Onboard pickup and preamp system for amplification
- Cutaway body style for enhanced upper fret access
Reasons to Avoid
- Neck profile might be too slim for players who prefer a thicker neck.
FAQs
Tanglewood headstock with logo against a blurred purple background
(Image credit: Future)
How do I choose the best acoustic guitar for me?
When selecting an inexpensive acoustic guitar, tone is paramount. The tonal characteristics of an acoustic guitar are largely determined by its body shape and the materials used in its construction.
Body shape significantly impacts the sound. Larger bodies, such as jumbo and dreadnought shapes, typically produce a deeper, bass-heavy tone. Conversely, grand auditorium, folk, or parlor guitars tend to have a tighter low end and a more focused midrange.
The woods used in guitar construction also play a crucial role in shaping the instrument’s overall tone. Mahogany, for example, is favored for its warm, mellow sound, while maple offers a brighter, snappier tone. Classic combinations, like a spruce top with rosewood back and sides, provide a balanced tone profile that appeals to a wide range of players. Ultimately, the best approach is to try out different guitars and identify the sound that resonates most with you.
What brands make the best inexpensive acoustic guitars?
Fortunately, finding a quality inexpensive acoustic guitar no longer necessitates resorting to obscure brands. All major acoustic guitar manufacturers offer excellent instruments in this price range, including Fender, Epiphone, Yamaha, and D’Angelico, among others.
Opting for established brands generally ensures better quality control, minimizing potential issues with components like frets, saddles, or electronics. Brands with long histories, such as Fender, Epiphone, and Gretsch, possess decades of guitar-making expertise. Choosing a guitar from a reputable brand offers greater confidence in your purchase.
How We Test
For a guitar to earn our recommendation, being inexpensive is not enough; it must also meet our rigorous standards. At Guitar Players, we seek guitars that are enjoyable to play, visually appealing, and sonically comparable to higher-priced instruments.
We firmly believe that budget-conscious shoppers should not compromise on instrument quality. The best inexpensive acoustic guitars feature comfortable necks, well-finished frets, impeccable finishes, and valuable additions like onboard preamps and acoustic pickups.
Our testing process for inexpensive acoustic guitars mirrors our approach for high-end models, ensuring they are fit for purpose. We meticulously examine each guitar’s construction, verifying the quality of joinery and overall assembly.
Next, we evaluate playability across various styles, including strumming, fingerpicking, and other acoustic techniques. We assess neck comfort during extended playing sessions before forming our judgment.
Finally, we analyze sound quality. Drawing on our extensive experience, we play a diverse range of music to assess the guitar’s response across the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies. While we don’t expect the harmonic complexity of a Martin or Taylor in this price range, the guitar should still offer inspiring sound quality.
Learn more about how we test products and services and our recommendation process.
