Nowadays, finding a quality instrument doesn’t necessarily mean breaking the bank. Thanks to advancements in manufacturing, you can acquire truly exceptional guitars at surprisingly affordable prices. That’s precisely why we’ve compiled this guide to the Best Low Cost Acoustic Guitars available today.
While it’s true that the market is saturated with mediocre acoustics, with the right guidance, you can discover a guitar that is incredibly playable, visually appealing, and most importantly, delivers inspiring sound. Our definition of “low cost” ranges from $100 to $450, a sweet spot where you can secure a fantastic budget acoustic guitar. Anything priced below this range, in our experience, often compromises significantly on quality.
We’ve meticulously researched and handpicked some of the finest budget acoustic guitars from reputable brands like Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, and D’Angelico, among others. Each of these guitars promises a delightful playing experience and impressive tone. If you’re eager to learn more about selecting the right acoustic guitar, explore our FAQs section. Otherwise, keep reading to discover our top recommendations for the best low cost acoustic guitars.
Our Top Picks
The body of a Yamaha F335 acoustic guitar
Best Overall
- Yamaha F335
For unbeatable affordability, the Yamaha F335 stands out as a top recommendation. This elegant dreadnought embodies the hallmarks of Yamaha craftsmanship, offering an exceptionally playable neck, outstanding build quality, and a rich, complex tone, all at a genuinely budget-friendly price point.
The body of an Epiphone Songmaker DR-100 acoustic guitar
Best Beginner
- Epiphone Songmaker DR-100
If you’re embarking on your acoustic guitar journey, the Epiphone Songmaker DR-100 is a widely favored choice. It boasts a robust acoustic voice, is available in three attractive colors, and offers exceptional value for its price. However, its dreadnought size might be a bit large for very young beginners.
The body of a DBest Electro
- D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS
The stylish D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS is not only visually striking but also a joy to play. This versatile instrument is suitable for various musical styles and features a built-in preamp and tuner, simplifying live performances and enhancing your overall playing experience.
Best Overall
Yamaha F335 low cost acoustic guitar
(Image credit: Yamaha)
1. Yamaha F335
Yamaha proves that affordability doesn’t necessitate compromising on quality with the F335, a standout in the realm of best low cost acoustic guitars.
Expert Review:
Yamaha’s reputation for producing quality instruments at reasonable prices is well-established, with models like the FG800 and LL6 ARE consistently earning high praise in guides to the best acoustic guitars for beginners. However, neither of these exceptional guitars can rival the affordability of the Yamaha F335. Priced comfortably under $200, this beautiful entry-level dreadnought is a popular choice for aspiring guitarists for good reason.
The F335 combines a laminate spruce top with meranti back and sides, resulting in a classic acoustic tone. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge further enhance its traditional appeal. In our thorough testing, we found the F335 to exhibit remarkably high quality – a testament to Yamaha’s legacy as a leading musical instrument manufacturer.
If you’re seeking the absolute best low cost acoustic guitar under $200, the Yamaha F335 unequivocally deserves a top spot on your list. It’s a fantastic option for anyone seeking quality without overspending.
Specifications
Body: Laminated spruce & Meranti
Neck: Nato
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: No
Reasons to Buy
- Highly playable neck
- Excellent build quality
Reasons to Avoid
- Dreadnought size might be large for some beginners
Best for Beginners
Epiphone DR-100 low cost acoustic guitar
(Image credit: Epiphone)
2. Epiphone Songmaker DR-100
The Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, formerly known as the DR-100, is Epiphone’s best-selling acoustic guitar and a perennial favorite for those seeking a great low cost acoustic guitar for beginners.
Expert Review: Our expert review:
The Epiphone DR-100 – now aptly named the Songmaker DR-100 – has been a staple in guitar stores worldwide for years, offering aspiring guitarists an accessible entry point into the captivating world of acoustic guitars. Much like the Yamaha F335, the Epiphone is a large-bodied Dreadnought that delivers impressive tone despite its remarkably low price tag. This makes it a strong contender in the best low cost acoustic guitar category.
Employing the time-tested combination of a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the Songmaker DR-100 brings you the quintessential Epiphone sound in abundance. Coupled with nicely finished fret ends and reliable hardware, this guitar is perfectly suited for launching your musical journey or rekindling a past passion for the guitar.
While Epiphone undoubtedly offers “superior” models within its extensive catalog – the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio immediately comes to mind – it’s still astonishing to witness the sheer value packed into the humble Songmaker DR-100. This stylish six-string is affordable, playable, and sounds excellent, easily securing its place among the best acoustic guitars under $500 and certainly a top pick for a best low cost acoustic guitar.
Read our full Epiphone DR-100 review
Specifications
Body: Spruce & Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: No
Reasons to Buy
- Available in three color options
- Powerful, loud sound
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid
- May be too large for very young players
Best Electro
D'Angelico Premier Gramercy LS low cost acoustic guitar
(Image credit: D’Angelico)
3. D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS
The D’Angelico Premier Gramercy LS challenges the notion that affordable guitars can’t be stylish, making it a stylish choice for a best low cost acoustic guitar with electronics.
Expert Review:
D’Angelico has experienced a remarkable resurgence in the guitar world, and the Premier Gramercy LS exemplifies the company’s ability to excel in the entry-level acoustic market, arguably surpassing many competitors.
The Gramercy LS features a satin mahogany body, offering a timeless aesthetic and producing a warm, mellow tone. We found this guitar to be equally well-suited for both strumming and fingerpicking, with a tone that accommodates either technique effortlessly. Furthermore, the neck boasts the familiar slim profile characteristic of D’Angelico guitars, comfortably fitting the hands of most players.
As we venture into the higher end of the “low cost” price range, we begin to encounter added features, primarily in the form of onboard electronics. The Gramercy LS comes equipped with a D’Angelico branded preamp and tuner, transforming this beginner-friendly, entry-level guitar into an instrument capable of commanding attention on stage at an open mic night. This electronic enhancement adds significant value, especially for performing musicians looking for a best low cost acoustic guitar with electronics.
It’s also worth highlighting the availability of this beautiful guitar in three distinct finishes: Natural Mahogany, Aged Mahogany, and Satin Vintage Sunburst.
Specifications
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Torrefied Merbau
Electronics: D’Angelico MG-30 Onboard Preamp/Tuner
Reasons to Buy
- Distinctive, eye-catching aesthetics
- Very slim and comfortable neck
Reasons to Avoid
- The headstock design can be polarizing
Best for Playability
Fender California Newporter Player acoustic guitar body close up
(Image credit: Future)
4. Fender California Newporter Player Acoustic
The Fender California Newporter Player Acoustic injects a vibrant splash of color into the acoustic guitar world, offering a playful and playable option for those seeking a best low cost acoustic guitar with a modern twist.
Expert Review:
One glance at the stylish Newporter immediately reveals its departure from the often-conservative mold of traditional acoustic guitars. It abandons the typical beige and brown color schemes in favor of the iconic custom finishes Fender is renowned for, including striking options like Candy Apple Red, Champagne, Olive Satin, and Ice Blue Satin.
However, the radical changes extend beyond mere aesthetics. The Newporter also boasts a remarkably thin neck – almost reminiscent of an electric guitar in profile – complete with the iconic Fender 6-in-line headstock, solidifying its unique visual identity.
Rest assured, substance accompanies style. We found this solid-top Fender acoustic to be exceptionally well-crafted, incredibly reliable, and, most importantly, to possess phenomenal sound quality. The inclusion of a Fishman preamp system further elevates its versatility, making it a guitar destined to last a lifetime – all at a price point as appealing as its stunning finish. For players prioritizing comfort and style without sacrificing sound quality, the Newporter is a strong contender for the best low cost acoustic guitar.
Read our full Fender California Newporter Player Acoustic review
Specifications
Body: Spruce & Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Walnut
Electronics: Fishman® CD-1 Preamp
Reasons to Buy
- Solid Sitka Spruce top for enhanced tone
- Wide array of vibrant color options
Reasons to Avoid
- May not appeal to players seeking traditional aesthetics
Best for Comfort
Tanglewood Blackbird Super Folk low cost acoustic guitar
(Image credit: Tanglewood)
5. Tanglewood Blackbird Super Folk
The Tanglewood Blackbird Super Folk proves that affordability and comfort can go hand-in-hand, making it an excellent choice for a best low cost acoustic guitar focused on comfortable playability.
Expert Review:
For many players, the name Tanglewood immediately conjures thoughts of affordable yet well-made acoustic guitars. This is particularly true in the UK, where Tanglewood proudly holds the title of Britain’s best-selling acoustic guitar maker.
In fact, our list could have easily included several Tanglewood guitars, but the smoky charcoal finish of the Blackbird series, combined with its incredibly attractive price tag, ultimately drew us in with its understated elegance.
We find the super folk body size to be exceptionally comfortable, especially for players who find dreadnought or jumbo bodies cumbersome. Furthermore, the smaller body contributes to a tighter, more focused tone, making it ideally suited for fingerstyle playing. For those seeking a best low cost acoustic guitar that prioritizes comfort and focused tone, the Blackbird Super Folk is a compelling option.
Specifications
Body: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Techwood
Electronics: Tanglewood Premium Plus preamp
Reasons to Buy
- Built-in Tanglewood Premium Plus preamp
- Comfortable size, especially for younger players
Reasons to Avoid
- The black finish may not appeal to everyone
Best for Gigging
Alvarez RG260CE Regent Series low cost acoustic guitar
(Image credit: Alvarez)
6. Alvarez RG260CE Regent Series
The Alvarez RG260CE Regent Series emerges as a reliable and affordable option for performing musicians, making it a strong contender for a best low cost acoustic guitar for gigging.
Expert Review:
If you’re in search of a dependable yet budget-friendly stage companion, the Alvarez Regent Series RG260CESB electric-acoustic might be just what you need. Featuring a grand auditorium body shape, bi-level bridge, and scalloped bracing, this guitar offers impressive specifications at a remarkably accessible price point.
Opting for the classic combination of a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the Alvarez RG260CE produces a timeless acoustic tone. In our assessment, the bass frequencies are warm and tight, complemented by a sparkling high end that could easily deceive even discerning guitarists into believing they are playing an instrument costing twice as much.
We believe the RG260CE transcends the typical entry-level student model. Instead, it stands as a well-crafted, fantastic-sounding acoustic guitar that significantly outperforms its price tag. For gigging musicians needing a reliable and affordable instrument, the Alvarez RG260CE is a top choice for the best low cost acoustic guitar for stage performance.
Specifications
Body: Spruce & Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Rosewood
Electronics: Alvarez SYS250
Reasons to Buy
- Onboard pickup and preamp system
- Cutaway design for upper fret access
Reasons to Avoid
- Neck profile may be too thin for some players
FAQs
Tanglewood headstock on purple background
(Image credit: Future)
How do I choose the best acoustic guitar for me?
When shopping for a low cost acoustic guitar, one of the most crucial factors to consider is the instrument’s tone. With acoustic guitars, the tone is largely determined by the body shape and the materials used in its construction.
Let’s begin with body shape. Generally, a larger body equates to a bigger sound. Jumbo and dreadnought guitars will produce a deeper, more bass-heavy tone, whereas grand auditorium, folk, or parlor guitars will offer a tighter low end and a more focused midrange. Consider your preferred playing style and musical genre when choosing a body shape.
The wood used to construct the guitar also plays a significant role in its overall tonal character. Different wood types impart unique sonic qualities. Mahogany, for instance, is favored for its mellow, smooth tone, while maple produces a brighter, snappier sound. Tried-and-true combinations, such as a spruce top with rosewood back and sides, deliver a well-balanced tone that appeals to a wide range of players. Our recommendation is to try out a few different body shapes and wood combinations to discover what resonates most with your ear and playing style.
What brands make the best low cost acoustic guitars?
Fortunately, the search for a low cost acoustic guitar no longer confines you to obscure, off-brand instruments. All the major acoustic guitar manufacturers offer exceptional guitars within this price range, including Fender, Epiphone, Yamaha, and D’Angelico, among others.
In our opinion, opting for guitars from established brands is generally advisable, as they tend to maintain stricter quality control standards. This minimizes the likelihood of encountering issues with components such as frets, saddles, or electronics. Historic brands like Fender, Epiphone, and Gretsch have decades of guitar-making experience, demonstrating a deep understanding of the craft. For us, knowing this heritage provides added confidence when investing our money in a new guitar. Choosing a reputable brand is a smart move when seeking the best low cost acoustic guitar.
How We Test
For a guitar to earn our recommendation, being affordable is not sufficient; it must also meet our exceptionally high standards. At Guitar World, we seek guitars that are enjoyable to play, visually appealing, and, of course, sound comparable to instruments in higher price brackets. We believe that even when considering guitars at the lower end of the price spectrum, players should not have to compromise on quality. The best low cost acoustic guitars feature comfortable necks, well-dressed frets, impeccable finishes, and valuable extras like onboard preamps and acoustic pickups.
Our testing process for low cost acoustic guitars mirrors the rigorous evaluations we conduct on instruments costing thousands of dollars, ensuring they are truly fit for purpose. We meticulously examine each guitar beforehand, scrutinizing the overall construction to ensure solid and clean joinery.
Next, we explore a diverse range of playing styles to assess its performance under strumming, fingerpicking, and other acoustic techniques. We evaluate the neck profile for comfort, playing for extended periods before forming our judgment.
Then, we delve into sound quality. Drawing upon our extensive experience playing acoustic guitars, we test each instrument across a variety of musical genres to gauge its response in the low, mid, and high frequencies. While we don’t anticipate Martin or Taylor levels of harmonic complexity from a low cost acoustic guitar, it should still possess sufficient sonic quality to inspire and engage the player.
Read more about how we test products and services and how we formulate our recommendations.
