Learning guitar is an incredibly rewarding experience, opening up a world of musical expression and personal enjoyment. However, taking that first step can feel daunting, especially when faced with the sheer volume of instruments available. Choosing the right guitar at the start is crucial. A Great Beginner Guitar will not only be easy to learn on but also inspire you to keep practicing and progressing, avoiding the frustration that can come with subpar instruments. We understand the challenges new players face, and that’s why we’ve rigorously tested and selected the best guitars that promise a smooth and enjoyable start to your musical voyage.
If you’re ready to dive straight into our top recommendations for great beginner guitars, simply keep scrolling. For those seeking more in-depth guidance before making a decision, our comprehensive buying advice section at the end of this article is packed with expert answers to common questions, drawing on decades of guitar playing experience.
Top Picks: Great Beginner Guitars at a Glance
Choosing your first guitar can be exciting, but also overwhelming. To simplify things, here’s a quick overview of our top great beginner guitar recommendations, covering both electric and acoustic options to suit different preferences and needs.
- Best Beginner Electric Guitar Overall: Yamaha Pacifica 112V – A versatile and high-quality electric guitar that’s perfect for learners of all ages and musical tastes.
- Best Beginner Electric Guitar for Kids: Squier Bullet Mustang – Comfortable and fun to play, this shorter-scale electric is ideal for younger beginners.
- Best Beginner Electric Guitar for Adults: Squier Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster – For beginners wanting a step up in quality and iconic Stratocaster style from the start.
- Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar Overall: Yamaha FG800 – A fantastic sounding and easy-to-play acoustic guitar offering incredible value for money.
- Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar for Kids: Yamaha JR1 – A scaled-down acoustic that’s perfectly sized for children, making learning comfortable and enjoyable.
- Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar for Adults: Ibanez PC12MHCE – An electro-acoustic option that offers great sound both acoustically and amplified, ideal for aspiring performers.
Great Beginner Electric Guitars: Top Recommendations
For aspiring rockstars, blues enthusiasts, or anyone drawn to amplified music, an electric guitar is the perfect starting point. Electric guitars are often considered easier on the fingers than acoustics and offer a wide range of tones to explore different musical genres. Here are our top picks for great beginner electric guitars.
Best Overall Great Beginner Electric Guitar: Yamaha Pacifica 112V
Two Yamaha Pacifica 112Vs on blue background
(Two Yamaha Pacifica 112V electric guitars in different finishes, showcasing their versatility as great beginner guitars).
The Yamaha Pacifica 112V has consistently been recommended as a great beginner guitar for over two decades. Its enduring popularity stems from Yamaha’s commitment to quality and playability. This guitar combines a mature design with the tonal flexibility that beginners need to explore various music styles. The humbucker pickup in the bridge position delivers powerful tones for rock and heavier music, while the single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions provide brighter, cleaner sounds suitable for pop, blues, and more.
What truly sets the Pacifica 112V apart as a great beginner guitar is its ability to grow with you. While cheaper guitars might suffice initially, they often become limiting as your skills develop. The Pacifica 112V, however, is built to professional standards, incorporating features that will remain valuable as you progress from beginner to advanced player.
Key Features:
- Body: Alder
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: Humbucker (bridge), 2 x Single-coil (middle & neck)
- Controls: Volume, Tone, 5-way selector
- Finishes: Various including Natural, Black, Blue, Sunburst, White
Reasons to Buy:
- Exceptional value for money
- Versatile for various music genres
- High-quality construction that lasts
- Easy to play and comfortable neck
Reasons to Avoid:
- Some may find the design less visually striking compared to more stylized guitars.
Read our full expert review of the Yamaha Pacifica 112V.
Best Great Beginner Electric Guitar for Kids: Squier Bullet Mustang
Squier Bullet Mustang electric guitar in blue
(A blue Squier Bullet Mustang electric guitar, highlighting its suitability as a great beginner guitar for kids due to its smaller size).
The Squier Bullet Mustang is not just a great beginner guitar in general, but it particularly shines as an excellent choice for younger learners. Its shorter 24” scale length is a game-changer for smaller hands, making it significantly easier to reach chords and navigate the fretboard. Despite its smaller size, the Bullet Mustang doesn’t compromise on sound. Plug it in, and you’ll be surprised by the powerful tones it can produce, perfect for rock, punk, and any genre that demands a punchy sound.
The lightweight basswood body of the Bullet Mustang is another advantage for young players. A lighter guitar means less strain and more focus on learning proper technique without being weighed down by a heavy instrument. The dual humbucker pickups are ideal for playing power chords and riffs, encouraging kids to explore energetic and exciting music styles.
Key Features:
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: 2 x Humbuckers
- Controls: Volume, Tone, 3-way selector
- Finishes: Imperial Blue, Black
Reasons to Buy:
- Comfortable shorter scale for kids
- Powerful humbucker tones
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Fun and inspiring for young rockers
Reasons to Avoid:
- The Mustang’s distinctive look might not appeal to everyone.
Explore our detailed review of the Squier Bullet Mustang.
Best Great Beginner Electric Guitar for Adults: Squier Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster
Squier Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster electric guitar in sunburst
(A sunburst Squier Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster, showcasing its classic design and appeal as a great beginner guitar for adults seeking quality).
For adults embarking on their guitar journey, sometimes starting with a higher-quality instrument can be incredibly motivating. The Squier Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster is a great beginner guitar for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics and superior craftsmanship right from the outset. While it’s positioned slightly above entry-level pricing, the Classic Vibe Stratocaster offers exceptional value by delivering a playing experience that rivals much more expensive guitars.
This Stratocaster captures the iconic look and feel of 1950s Fender Stratocasters, featuring period-correct appointments and vintage-style hardware. Beyond its stunning looks, it’s a remarkably comfortable and versatile instrument. The three single-coil pickups provide a wide palette of tones, from sparkling cleans to gritty blues, making it suitable for a vast range of musical styles. The build quality is outstanding for its price range, ensuring a reliable and inspiring great beginner guitar that will last for years.
Key Features:
- Body: Pine
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Maple
- Frets: 21
- Pickups: 3 x Single-coil
- Controls: Volume, 2 x Tone, 5-way selector
- Finishes: 2-Color Sunburst, White Blonde, Fiesta Red, Black
Reasons to Buy:
- Iconic Stratocaster looks and sound
- Exceptional build quality for the price
- Versatile tones for various genres
- Comfortable and inspiring to play
Reasons to Avoid:
- It’s a more expensive option compared to basic entry-level guitars.
Discover more in our expert review of the Squier Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster.
Great Beginner Acoustic Guitars: Top Recommendations
Acoustic guitars are a fantastic entry point into the world of music. They are self-contained instruments, requiring no amplification, and are perfect for learning foundational guitar skills. A great beginner acoustic guitar should be easy to play, sound good, and encourage practice. Here are our top recommendations for great beginner acoustic guitars.
Best Overall Great Beginner Acoustic Guitar: Yamaha FG800
Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar in natural finish
(A Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar in natural finish, exemplifying its status as a great beginner guitar with excellent sound and playability).
When you think of affordable acoustic guitars, it’s easy to imagine flimsy, poorly made instruments. However, the Yamaha FG800 stands out as a great beginner guitar that defies these expectations. It’s a properly built, high-quality acoustic guitar available at an incredibly accessible price point. For beginners seeking a reliable and great-sounding acoustic, the FG800 is hard to beat.
The FG800 features a dreadnought body shape, which is known for its full, resonant sound. The combination of a spruce top and nato/okume back and sides produces a rich tone with excellent projection. This great beginner guitar is not only sonically impressive but also designed for comfortable playability, making the learning process more enjoyable and less frustrating. It’s a guitar that will inspire you from your first chords and continue to sound great as your skills progress.
Key Features:
- Body: Sitka Spruce top, Nato/Okume back and sides
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Walnut
- Frets: 20
- Finish: Natural
Reasons to Buy:
- Wonderful rich and resonant sound
- Easy to play and comfortable neck
- Incredible value for money
- Durable and well-constructed
Reasons to Avoid:
- The dreadnought body size might be too large for very young learners.
Read our comprehensive review of the Yamaha FG800.
Best Great Beginner Acoustic Guitar for Kids: Yamaha JR1
Yamaha JR1 acoustic guitar, smaller size for kids
(The Yamaha JR1 acoustic guitar, demonstrating its smaller, ¾ size which makes it a great beginner guitar for children).
While smaller-bodied guitars can be suitable for kids, the Yamaha JR1 is specifically designed as a great beginner guitar for kids, making it arguably the best in its category. This ¾-sized acoustic guitar features a scaled-down body and neck, perfectly tailored for smaller hands and bodies. This reduced size significantly improves comfort and playability for children, allowing them to learn chords and develop proper playing technique without strain.
Despite its smaller dimensions, the Yamaha JR1 doesn’t sacrifice sound quality. It produces a surprisingly full and pleasant tone, encouraging young learners and making practice sessions more rewarding. Its portability, enhanced by the included gig bag, also makes it a fantastic travel guitar for players of any age. The Yamaha JR1 is a well-rounded and thoughtfully designed great beginner guitar that sets kids up for success.
Key Features:
- Body: Spruce top, Meranti back and sides
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 20
- Finish: Natural
Reasons to Buy:
- Perfect ¾ size for children
- Great sound quality for its size
- Easy to learn on and comfortable
- Includes a gig bag for portability
Reasons to Avoid:
- The simple, natural finish might not be as visually exciting to some.
Best Great Beginner Acoustic Guitar for Adults: Ibanez PC12MHCE
Ibanez PC12MHCE electro-acoustic guitar with cutaway
(The Ibanez PC12MHCE electro-acoustic guitar, highlighting its features as a great beginner guitar for adults looking to perform).
For beginners with an eye on the future – perhaps dreaming of playing live or jamming with friends – an electro-acoustic guitar is an excellent choice. The Ibanez PC12MHCE is a great beginner guitar that offers the best of both worlds: quality acoustic sound and the option to plug in and amplify your playing. It’s a fantastic value option for first-time players who want versatility and future performance capabilities.
The PC12MHCE boasts a comfortable, slightly smaller body size, making it easy to handle. Its okoume construction provides a warm, balanced tone that works well for strumming chords and fingerpicking. The inclusion of built-in electronics is a significant advantage, allowing you to connect to an amplifier or PA system for increased volume and performance opportunities. The cutaway body style also provides easier access to the higher frets, which is beneficial as your playing progresses. With its combination of sound, playability, and features, the Ibanez PC12MHCE is a great beginner guitar that’s ready to grow with you.
Key Features:
- Body: Okoume top, Okoume back and sides
- Neck: Okoume
- Fingerboard: Laurel
- Frets: 20
- Finish: Open Pore
Reasons to Buy:
- Versatile electro-acoustic capabilities
- Comfortable and slightly smaller body
- Great sound both plugged and unplugged
- Excellent value for money
Reasons to Avoid:
- The okoume body might lack some of the deep bass response of other tonewoods.
Beginner Guitar Buying Guide: Key Considerations
Man teaching guitar to a woman
(A guitar teacher instructing a student, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right guitar with expert guidance for beginners).
Buying your first guitar is a significant decision. To ensure you choose the perfect great beginner guitar for you, it’s essential to be informed. Here’s a guide to answer some common questions and help you navigate the buying process.
Acoustic Guitar or Electric Guitar: Which Should You Start With?
Traditionally, beginners often started on acoustic guitars. However, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and goals. While acoustic guitars were once considered the only ‘proper’ starting point, electric guitars have become increasingly popular and often easier for beginners in some respects.
Electric guitars can be easier to learn on for several reasons:
- Thinner necks: Electric guitar necks are generally slimmer and easier to grip, making chord fretting less strenuous.
- Thinner strings: Electric guitar strings are lighter gauge and require less finger pressure to play, reducing finger fatigue.
- Smaller bodies: Electric guitars often have thinner bodies that sit closer to the player, enhancing comfort.
However, starting with an acoustic guitar also has its advantages:
- Develops finger strength: The higher string tension on acoustic guitars builds hand strength and finger dexterity more quickly.
- Fundamental skills: Acoustic guitar playing emphasizes fundamental techniques that translate well to electric guitar later on.
- Portability: Acoustic guitars are self-contained and playable anywhere, without needing amplification.
Ultimately, the “best” starting point is the type of guitar that excites you most and motivates you to play. If you’re drawn to rock, blues, or metal, an electric guitar might be more inspiring. If you love folk, country, or singer-songwriter styles, an acoustic guitar could be the perfect fit.
What Size Guitar is Appropriate for a Beginner?
Guitar size is an important consideration, especially for younger players or those with smaller frames.
Electric guitars generally come in fairly standard body sizes. Short-scale electric guitars are available with a shorter distance between the bridge and headstock, making them more comfortable for players with shorter arms and smaller hands.
Acoustic guitars come in various body sizes:
- Dreadnought and Jumbo: These are larger-bodied guitars, producing a full, loud sound, but can be bulky for smaller players.
- Parlor and Grand Auditorium: These styles offer smaller bodies that are more comfortable for beginners and younger players.
- ¾ and ½ size guitars: These are significantly smaller guitars designed specifically for children and very young learners.
Choosing the right size ensures comfort and ease of playing, which is crucial for beginners. For adults of average size, a full-size guitar is usually suitable, while children and smaller adults may benefit from a ¾ or parlor-sized acoustic or a short-scale electric.
Woman playing electric guitar with acoustic guitar in background
(A woman playing a Squier electric guitar, with a Fender acoustic guitar visible in the background, illustrating the choice between electric and acoustic great beginner guitars).
How Much Should You Budget for Your First Guitar?
All the guitars featured in this guide are priced under $500, with many being well below $300. For a first instrument, it’s generally advisable not to overspend. Setting a budget of around $300 is a good starting point, as guitars in this range typically offer excellent quality and playability. Reputable brands offer great beginner guitars even at lower price points, ensuring you get a decent instrument without breaking the bank. It’s better to start with a more affordable, quality guitar and upgrade later as your skills and preferences evolve.
Essential Accessories for Beginner Guitarists
Alongside your great beginner guitar, some accessories are highly recommended:
- Clip-on Tuner: Essential for keeping your guitar in tune, which is crucial for learning and ear training.
- Guitar Strap (for electric guitars): Makes playing while standing comfortable and secure. While acoustic guitars can be played standing without straps, they are highly recommended for electric guitars.
- Guitar Cable (for electric guitars): To connect your electric guitar to an amplifier.
- Beginner Guitar Amplifier (for electric guitars): Necessary to hear your electric guitar properly and explore different tones.
Investing in these accessories from the start will enhance your learning experience and ensure you have everything you need to get playing.
Clip-on tuner on an acoustic guitar headstock
(A clip-on tuner attached to the headstock of an acoustic guitar, emphasizing the importance of this accessory for beginners).
Should You Take Guitar Lessons Before Buying a Guitar?
Having your own guitar is essential while learning. If you’re taking lessons, you’ll need an instrument to practice on between sessions. Therefore, buying a guitar alongside starting lessons is highly recommended. If you’re concerned about the cost of in-person lessons, numerous excellent online guitar lesson platforms offer structured learning at your own pace and budget.
Online guitar lessons can be a fantastic and affordable way to learn. Platforms like Fender Play, Guitar Tricks, TrueFire, and Simply Guitar offer comprehensive courses for beginners, often with interactive features and progress tracking.
Explore these online guitar lesson deals to kickstart your learning journey:
- Fender Play: 50% off an annual subscription (Use code guitarworld50)
- Guitar Tricks: Save 50% off your first month (Use code GW50MONTH)
- TrueFire: Save 30% with code GWTF30 (Use code GWTF30)
- Simply Guitar: Save 20% at this link
How We Choose the Best Guitars for Beginners
At Guitar World, our team comprises seasoned guitar experts with years of playing and product testing experience. We are passionate about guitars and basses, and our recommendations are based on extensive hands-on experience in live, recording, and practice settings.
Our selection process for the best beginner guitars involves:
- Hands-on testing: We rigorously test and evaluate numerous guitars, assessing playability, sound quality, and build.
- User reviews and feedback: We consider user reviews and testimonies to understand real-world experiences with different models.
- Expert consensus: Our editorial team engages in detailed discussions to reach a consensus on the top-performing guitars in each category.
Our primary goal is to help guitarists of all levels find the right gear. We carefully consider factors like budget, features, ease of use, and durability to compile lists of the great beginner guitars currently available. We aim to provide reliable and informed recommendations to set beginners on the path to musical success.
Learn more about our testing methodology and how we ensure our reviews are trustworthy and helpful.
Explore Further
Continue your guitar journey with these related resources:
- Best Electric Guitars for Beginners
- Best Acoustic Guitars for Beginners
- Best Guitar Accessories for Beginners
- Online Guitar Lessons for Beginners
