All guitar players know the excitement of buying a guitar. However, for beginners, this can be overwhelming if they don’t know what to look for. Choosing the right guitar is important. If you choose a guitar that doesn’t play well or isn’t right for the music that you like, this can kill motivation.
In this guide, we’ll discuss your options and break down the essentials of choosing your first guitar. Follow our expert advice to kick off your journey on the right note.
Best Beginner-Friendly Types of Guitars
The excitement is building up, so you’re probably wondering, “What guitar should I buy?”. Beginner guitars offer a perfect starting point for exploration and skill development. Here are the basic examples to choose from.
- Acoustic guitars. Acoustic guitars are every beginner’s go-to because they don’t require an amplifier. They’re versatile for various styles of music and are known for warm, natural tones.
Opt for a classical guitar with nylon strings if you’re interested in playing classical or fingerstyle music. Steel-string acoustics are best suited for playing popular genres such as rock, blues, and country. - Electric guitars. Electric guitars offer a distinct sound, perfect for rock, pop, and other amplified genres. They’re generally easier to play due to their slimmer necks and lower string tension. As a new guitar player, it’s often a good idea to choose an amplifier that gives you lots of options for different tones and effects so that you can figure out what you want your guitar to sound like. Plus, it’s a lot of fun experimenting with your sound!
- Classical guitars. These guitars have nylon strings that create a stunning tonal palette for classical and flamenco music. The nylon’s softer feel eases finger strain throughout the early guitar learning stages.
Your favorite music style(s) will help determine the type of guitar you want to start with. Test different guitar types to find the one that feels good to you and sounds best to your ears.
How to Choose a Guitar for Beginners
Choosing the right guitar makes your guitar learning experience more rewarding and enjoyable. Still unsure how to choose a good acoustic guitar, electric guitar, or classical guitar? Check out the following considerations:
- Scale Length. The scale length affects the strings’ tension and feel. Shorter scales, like those found on Les Paul guitars, are easier to bend but may sacrifice some tonal depth. Longer scales, such as those on many acoustic guitars, can produce better resonance.
- Body Shapes. Different body shapes can impact the guitar sound, particularly for acoustic and classical guitars. Do you prefer a deep, booming tone or more balance? Try out different guitars and find one that feel great in your hands and sounds good to your ears.
- Guitar Size. Pay attention to guitar size, especially if you’re a beginner. Smaller-bodied guitars are often more comfortable for novice players. For kids and younger teens, you may want to start with a 1/2 or 3/4 size guitar. This makes it a lot easier to play for smaller people.
- Extra Strings. Some variants and extended ranges have up to 12 guitar strings. While they produce a rich, full sound, they can be challenging for beginners. Stick to a standard 6-string guitar for starters.
- Price Range. Set a realistic budget. You don’t need expensive instruments to start your guitar journey.
- Quality. Look out for poor workmanship. Run your fingers (carefully) along the side of the neck. Are there any sharp frets sticking out? This can make playing uncomfortable. Play every fret on the neck and make sure there is no string buzzing. This can indicate a twisted neck.
Many excellent entry level guitars are available at budget-friendly price tags. Find one that fits your budget without compromising quality.
Pro-tip: Visit reputable music stores or your local guitar shop to find the best guitar for beginners. Better yet, seek advice from an experienced, certified guitar instructor.
The best guitar for you is the one that feels right in your hands and inspires you to play. If you want to play guitar like a pro in no time, sign up for an introductory session here.
