Finding the perfect acoustic guitar doesn’t have to break the bank. While it’s true that spending more can sometimes get you a higher-end instrument, the good news is that you can absolutely find some of the best acoustic guitars for under $500. The market has responded to the growing number of beginner and budget-conscious players, and even renowned brands are now offering exceptional quality in this price range. This means you can get your hands on instruments with quality hardware, solid tops, and even built-in electronics without exceeding your budget.
If you’re new to the world of acoustic guitars, we highly recommend checking out our buying advice section to get acquainted with key features and considerations. For those who are ready to dive in, keep scrolling to discover our top selections for the best acoustic guitars under $500.
Our Top Picks: Acoustic Guitars Under $500
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Fender CD-60S
Best Overall
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Fender CD-60S
The Fender CD-60S All Mahogany stands out as a best-selling acoustic guitar, offering incredible value well below the $500 mark. Featuring a solid mahogany top, it’s an ideal entry point for beginner guitarists and experienced players alike.
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Yamaha FG800M
Best for Adults
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Yamaha FG800M
A classic in the beginner acoustic guitar realm, the Yamaha FG800M delivers exceptional specifications for its affordable price. This brilliant dreadnought provides incredible value and a rich, resonant tone.
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy
Best for Small Hands
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Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy
The Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy has become a top-selling guitar in recent years, lauded for its affordability and quality. This rock-solid acoustic offers fantastic playability without a hefty price tag.
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Yamaha STORIA III
Best for Style
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Yamaha STORIA III
The Yamaha STORIA III acoustic guitar combines unique aesthetics with traditional sound. This model offers a visually striking design and impressive sonic performance for under $500.
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Tanglewood TWBB-OE Blackbird
Best for Beginners
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Tanglewood TWBB-OE Blackbird
The Tanglewood TWBB-OE Blackbird is an excellent value acoustic guitar, particularly well-suited for beginners. Its smaller body size and comfortable playability make it a fantastic choice for new players on a budget.
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Guild M-240E
Best Concert Under $500
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Guild M-240E
From a legendary acoustic brand, the Guild M-240E provides an affordable concert-sized option. This guitar delivers rich tones and excellent playability in a comfortable, smaller body.
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Ibanez Talman TCY10E
Best Electro-Acoustic
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Ibanez Talman TCY10E
The Ibanez Talman TCY10E offers the comfortable playability of an electric guitar in an acoustic format. This electro-acoustic model is perfect for players seeking versatility and a smooth transition from electric guitars.
Best Overall Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Best acoustic guitars under 0: Fender CD-60S All-Mahogany
(Image credit: Fender)
1. Fender CD-60S All-Mahogany
The best acoustic guitar under $500 for beginners.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: Dreadnought
- Top: Solid mahogany
- Back and sides: Laminate mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Scale length: 25.3”
- Frets: 20
- Tuners: Chrome
- Electronics: None
- Left-handed: Spruce-top natural finish only
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent value for money
- Great intonation
- Bright mid-range tone
Reasons to Avoid
- Simple aesthetic
- No pickup included
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you’re a beginner guitarist: The CD-60S provides exceptional value and playability, making it a top choice for those just starting their guitar journey.
❌ Avoid if you prefer elaborate designs: If you’re looking for a visually striking instrument, the Fender’s straightforward appearance might not be for you.
The Fender CD-60S proves that a ‘beginner instrument’ can still deliver professional-level sound and feel. Thanks to advancements in manufacturing, this guitar offers impressive performance from its tonewoods at an accessible price. The CD-60S sounds fantastic and is comfortable to play, all while remaining budget-friendly.
The solid mahogany top construction provides a signature chiming mid-range brightness that mahogany is known for. The dreadnought body style also ensures a robust bass response, even when exploring lower tunings. Our tests confirmed the CD-60S boasts excellent intonation, reliable tuning stability, and comfortable string action.
Keep an eye out for online bundle deals that may include essential accessories like a tuner, strap, strings, and a gig bag. For players looking to plug in, an electro-acoustic version with a cutaway is also available for a slight upcharge.
Read our full Fender CD-60S All-Mahogany review
Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500 for Adults
Best acoustic guitars under 0: Yamaha FG800M
(Image credit: Future)
2. Yamaha FG800M
One of the best beginner acoustics ever made.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: Dreadnought
- Top: Spruce
- Back & sides: Nato/Okoume
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Scale length: 25 9/16”
- Hardware: Die-cast Chrome (TM29T)
Reasons to Buy
- Solid top at an incredible price point
- Outstanding build quality
- Fantastic sound
Reasons to Avoid
- Dreadnought size might be large for some
- No pickup system
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you want a solid top acoustic for less: The FG800 is renowned for its exceptional value, featuring a solid top typically found on much more expensive guitars.
❌ Avoid if you need built-in electronics: This model does not include a pickup, requiring you to add your own if amplification is needed.
Yamaha’s reputation as a music industry giant is mirrored by the Yamaha FG800’s status in the beginner acoustic guitar market. For its price, the FG800 offers specifications that are truly remarkable for a budget acoustic.
The inclusion of a solid spruce top at this price point is astounding, and the FG800 backs it up with impressive sound quality. It delivers a punchy, resonant, and balanced tone that remains articulate across various playing styles.
Being a dreadnought, it’s a larger guitar, which might be challenging for players with smaller frames or younger learners. However, if the size is manageable, the FG800 is one of the most rewarding acoustic guitars you can find for under $500, offering a premium feel and sound without the premium price.
Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500 for Small Hands
Best acoustic guitars under 0: Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy
(Image credit: Gretsch)
3. Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy
A perfect small-body strummer at an incredibly affordable price.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: Parlor
- Top: Basswood
- Back and sides: Basswood
- Neck: Nato
- Fretboard: Walnut
- Scale length: 24″
- Frets: 18
- Tuners: Open gear Die-cast
- Electronics: N/A
- Left-handed: No
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent sound for its size
- Reliable tuning stability
- Comfortable scale length
Reasons to Avoid
- Fretboard may feel cramped for some
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you want the perfect sofa guitar: The Jim Dandy’s compact size and low cost make it ideal for casual playing and practice anywhere in your home.
❌ Avoid if you have larger hands: The smaller dimensions of this guitar might make the fretboard feel too confined for players with bigger hands.
The Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy is not only a best-selling acoustic guitar in recent years but also one of the most affordable. Falling well under the $500 mark, the Jim Dandy possesses a unique charm that makes it an excellent low-cost strummer for relaxed playing.
Despite its parlor size, it produces a pleasingly bright sound with surprising projection when strummed forcefully. Fingerpicking reveals a nice string pluck with a clear attack and articulate frequency response.
The factory setup includes a comfortable low action, ensuring playability right out of the box. We also found the intonation to be accurate across the fretboard. While players accustomed to full-size acoustics might initially find the fretboard a bit narrow, it quickly becomes comfortable and enjoyable to play, especially for beginners and those seeking a smaller-bodied guitar.
Read the full Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy review
Best Stylish Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Yamaha STORIA III
(Image credit: Yamaha)
4. Yamaha STORIA III
Unique looks and traditional acoustic sounds.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: Concert
- Back and sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Nato
- Fretboard: Walnut
- Scale length: 25”
- Frets: 20
- Tuners: Open Gear Champagne-Gold
- Electronics: Yamaha passive undersaddle pickup
- Left-handed: No
Reasons to Buy
- Visually appealing design
- Solid top construction
- Feels more premium than its price
Reasons to Avoid
- Wine red interior might not appeal to everyone
- Pickup system could be improved
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you want a compact body size with dreadnought-like playability: Despite its smaller concert body, the 25.5-inch scale length offers a playing experience similar to larger instruments.
❌ Avoid if you prefer traditional guitar aesthetics: Yamaha has opted for a modern and distinctive look, which may not suit players seeking a more classic appearance.
Yamaha set out to create a guitar that “transforms the traditional acoustic guitar into a one-of-a-kind statement piece” with the STORIA range, and the STORIA III certainly achieves this goal.
The wine-red interior and champagne-gold hardware accents give this sub-$500 acoustic a touch of elegance rarely seen at this price point. The solid mahogany top complements the striking appearance with a beautifully warm and resonant tone.
The slightly shorter 25” scale length and compact concert body make the STORIA III exceptionally easy to play, especially for beginners. It’s a guitar that looks as good as it sounds and offers a unique blend of style and substance in the under $500 price range.
Read our full Yamaha Storia III review
Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Tanglewood TWBB-OE Blackbird
(Image credit: Tanglewood)
5. Tanglewood TWBB-OE Blackbird
An excellent value acoustic guitar with a comfortable smaller body.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: Orchestra
- Top: Laminated Mahogany
- Back & sides: Laminated Mahogany
- Neck: N/A
- Scale: 25.5″
- Fingerboard: Techwood
- Frets: 20
- Tuners: Die-cast
- Left-handed: No
- Finish: Black
Reasons to Buy
- Ideal for beginners
- Exceptional value for the price
- Comfortable and playable neck
Reasons to Avoid
- Slightly lacking in low-end frequencies
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you want a beginner guitar on a budget: The Tanglewood Blackbird offers a lot of features and playability for its affordable price, making it a great starting instrument.
❌ Avoid if you need a very full low-end response: As a budget-friendly option, the Blackbird’s low-end might not be as pronounced as more expensive models.
The Tanglewood TWBB-O Blackbird has become a popular choice in recent years thanks to its impressive value. Suitable for beginners or experienced players seeking a comfortable “sofa guitar,” it offers surprising playability despite its budget-friendly price.
The neck is a standout feature, praised for its comfort and smooth action, complemented by a well-finished nut and bridge. It sounds great for bluesy fingerpicking and holds its own when strummed, although its smaller body means it’s not as bass-heavy as larger guitars.
Unusually for guitars in this price range, it includes a four-band EQ on the preamp and a highly convenient onboard tuner. The Tanglewood Blackbird provides a comprehensive package for the money, making it a top recommendation for those on a budget or just starting their acoustic guitar journey.
Best Concert Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Guild M-240E
(Image credit: Guild)
6. Guild M-240E
An affordable concert-sized option from a legendary acoustic brand.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: M – Concert
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fretboard: Pau Ferro
- Scale length: 24.75”
- Frets: 20
- Tuners: Guild GBB1 Butterbean Nickel
- Electronics: Guild/Fishman Sonitone GT-1
- Left-handed: No
Reasons to Buy
- Attractive aesthetic
- Thin neck finish for enhanced feel
- Sounds bigger than its size suggests
Reasons to Avoid
- Smaller body can be overwhelmed by hard strumming
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you want a versatile all-rounder for under $500: The Guild M-240E combines a fantastic acoustic voice with smooth playability and quality built-in electronics.
❌ Avoid if you require maximum volume: The smaller body size can limit its volume output when played aggressively with open chords.
The Guild M-240E stands out as a slightly less common yet highly appealing choice in the smaller-bodied acoustic guitar category under $500. While brands like Martin and Taylor are also popular in this segment, the M-240E offers a distinctive character.
Its construction features the classic combination of a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, resulting in a crisp, punchy tone with a balanced low-end. This tonal profile makes the M-240E ideal for solo performers seeking rich accompaniment or band members needing to cut through the mix.
The comfortable C-shaped neck and compact ‘M’ concert body make this Guild a fantastic travel or couch guitar. However, with a 24.75″ scale length, it maintains a substantial feel and sonic presence. When plugged in, the Fishman Sonitone pickup system amplifies the sound impressively, making it a remarkably versatile acoustic-electric guitar.
Best Electro-Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Best acoustic guitars under 500: Ibanez Talman TCY10E
(Image credit: Ibanez)
7. Ibanez Talman TCY10E
An acoustic guitar with the comfortable playability of an electric.
Our expert review:
Specifications
- Type: Talman Doublecut
- Top: Spruce
- Back & sides: Sapele
- Neck: Okoume
- Scale: 25.5″
- Fingerboard: Purpleheart
- Frets: 20
- Tuners: Chrome Die-cast
- Left-handed: Yes
- Finish: Black, Ivory, Sea Foam Green
Reasons to Buy
- Fast-playing neck profile
- Excellent upper fret access
- Compact and comfortable body shape
Reasons to Avoid
- Unplugged volume is not as loud as traditional acoustics
At a glance:
✅ Buy if you want electric guitar-like playability in an acoustic: The Talman TCY10E features a slim neck and easy upper fret access, appealing to electric guitar players.
❌ Avoid if you need a loud acoustic for unplugged performance: The body’s thin depth and unique shape result in less acoustic volume compared to traditional dreadnought or jumbo guitars.
For electric guitarists transitioning to acoustic, the Ibanez Talman TCY10E offers a familiar playing experience with authentic acoustic tones. Its distinctive body shape not only looks stylish but also provides exceptional access to the higher frets.
While the unique shape and narrow body depth mean it might not be as loud as a traditional dreadnought when played acoustically, it still produces a pleasing acoustic tone suitable for practice and quieter settings.
The key selling point is its playability, featuring a slim, fast neck reminiscent of electric guitars. The extended upper fret access allows electric players to easily transfer their lead techniques to the acoustic realm, making the Talman TCY10E a highly versatile instrument for stage and studio.
FAQs: Finding the Best Acoustic Guitar for $500
Martin Simpson playing an acoustic guitar
(Image credit: Future)
Can budget acoustic guitars really be as good as expensive guitars?
It’s important to acknowledge that the quality of ‘budget’ acoustic guitars has significantly improved. Today, you can find incredible instruments at surprisingly affordable prices that offer excellent performance and sound.
The guitars featured in this guide represent some of the best options available for around $500 or less. The key takeaway is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a great-sounding, playable acoustic guitar.
While budget guitars may lack some of the ornate details or prestigious brand names of high-end models, they are designed to provide players with a reliable and enjoyable acoustic experience at an accessible price point. We wholeheartedly recommend these guitars for their exceptional value and performance.
What size acoustic guitar is right for me?
Guitar size is a critical factor when choosing an acoustic, impacting both tone and playing comfort. Common acoustic guitar sizes include jumbo, dreadnought, auditorium, classical, and parlor.
Jumbo guitars deliver the largest, most resonant tone, favored by artists like Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan for their powerful sound. However, their large size can be less comfortable for some players.
Dreadnoughts are the most popular body size, offering a balanced tone that suits various playing styles. They are versatile and comfortable for most players, striking a good balance between size and sound.
Auditorium, classical, and parlor guitars are smaller-bodied options, ideal for younger players or those seeking greater comfort. Auditorium and classical guitars offer balanced tones, while parlor guitars are known for their punchy, mid-focused sound, favored by blues players like Keb’ Mo’.
Generally, larger guitars produce bigger sounds. Consider your size, playing style, and desired tone when choosing the right acoustic guitar size.
Solid Top vs. Laminate Top: What’s the difference?
When researching acoustic guitars, you’ll often encounter the terms “laminate top” and “solid top.” Understanding the difference is crucial for choosing the right instrument.
A solid top means the guitar’s soundboard (the top) is crafted from a single piece of wood. This construction enhances resonance, volume, and tonal complexity, contributing to a richer, fuller sound.
A laminate top consists of multiple thin layers of wood glued together. While more durable and less susceptible to changes in humidity, laminate tops typically don’t resonate as freely as solid tops, resulting in a less complex tone.
While laminate guitars were once common in the budget market, many modern affordable acoustics now feature solid tops. Models like the Epiphone J200 EC Studio and Martin LX1e in this guide use solid spruce tops to enhance their sound quality, even with laminate back and sides. For the best acoustic guitar under $500, consider models with a solid top for superior sound.
Do I need a pickup on my acoustic guitar?
Several guitars in our best acoustic guitars under $500 guide come with built-in pickup systems. While not everyone needs to amplify their acoustic guitar, having a pickup offers several advantages.
Firstly, a pickup provides versatility. Whether you want to play at an open mic night, perform at school, or record song ideas, having the option to plug in is incredibly useful.
Secondly, many pickup systems include a built-in tuner. This allows for convenient tuning without needing a separate clip-on tuner or tuning app.
Keep in mind that many budget acoustic guitars don’t include pickups, and sometimes they are an optional add-on. If you anticipate needing to amplify your guitar, consider an electro-acoustic model or factor in the cost of adding a pickup later.
Does the brand of acoustic guitar really matter?
Brand reputation does play a role in the acoustic guitar world, with certain brands known for specific tonal characteristics and build quality. For example, Martin guitars are often considered the benchmark for the ‘classic acoustic sound,’ while Taylor guitars are known for a more modern, articulate tone.
Fender acoustics are recognized for their value and playability, though they may not have the same legacy as Martin or Taylor in acoustics. Yamaha has built a strong reputation with beginner nylon-string guitars and innovative technologies, emphasizing Japanese build quality.
However, personal preference ultimately outweighs brand perception. What sounds “warm” or “rich” is subjective. Whenever possible, try playing a guitar before buying it or listen to sound demos. Most retailers offer return policies, allowing you to exchange a guitar if it doesn’t meet your expectations. Focus on finding the best acoustic guitar for you, regardless of the brand name on the headstock.
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A Taylor 410E-R steel-string electro-acoustic guitar (L) and a Martin DR Centennial steel-string acoustic guitar
(Image credit: Future)
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Learn more about the expert authors behind this guide:
Chris Bird
Chris has been the Editor of Total Guitar magazine since 2020 and previously led Total Guitar’s tab and tuition section for 12 years. A former guitar teacher with 35 years of playing experience and a degree in Philosophy & Popular Music, Chris has interviewed iconic guitarists like Brian May and Jimmy Page.
Daryl Robertson
Daryl is Guitar World’s Senior Deals Writer, creating buyer’s guides, finding the best guitar deals, and testing gear. His reviews have appeared in Total Guitar and MusicRadar.com. Daryl has interviewed numerous musical icons, including Slash and members of Foo Fighters. His background includes a decade in music retail, advising customers on gear from beginner acoustics to professional models.
Matt McCracken
Matt is a Junior Deals Writer at Guitar World, regularly reviewing guitars, amps, pedals, and related gear. He manages over 60 buying guides and helps guitarists find the best gear deals. Matt has 5 years of music retail experience and has written for MusicRadar, Guitar Player, and Guitar.com. A gigging guitarist for over 20 years, Matt performs in genres from jazz to djent and records with the band JACKALS.
How We Choose the Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500
Yamaha Storia III review
(Image credit: Future/Chris Corfield)
When selecting acoustic guitars for our guides, we consider that every player has unique preferences for tone and feel. However, we also adhere to objective criteria to ensure our recommendations are reliable and helpful.
Our evaluation process begins with assessing overall build quality. We thoroughly inspect each guitar, examining the body, neck, hardware, and components for robustness and durability, ensuring they can withstand regular use.
Next, we evaluate fretwork consistency to identify any sharp or uneven frets that might cause buzzing or discomfort. Playability is paramount, and we ensure the guitars are comfortable for players of all levels, including beginners, with forgiving necks and comfortable body shapes.
Finally, we focus on the acoustic guitar’s sound. We test each instrument across various playing techniques and styles, from strumming chords to fingerpicking, to assess its tonal balance, volume, and responsiveness.
Learn more about our rigorous testing process and how we develop our recommendations in our how we test guide.
