Best Beginner Guitars by Budget: Acoustic, Classical and Electric
You don't need an expensive guitar to learn — but you do need one that stays in tune and is comfortable to play. Here is what to expect at each budget, with long-running models that have a strong track record.
Prices are approximate US street prices and vary by country, retailer and time of year. Use them as budget bands, and always check the current price before you buy. We are independent and do not earn commission from any brand or store.
What matters most on a first guitar
- Playability: low, even action (string height) and smooth fret ends. This matters more than anything else.
- Tuning stability: decent tuners and a well-cut nut so the guitar stays in tune.
- Comfort: body size and neck shape that suit your frame.
- Sound: nice to have, but a beginner benefits more from playability.
A professional setup — adjusting the neck, action and intonation — can make an inexpensive guitar play like one costing twice as much. Many shops include it free when you buy. See guitar setup explained.
Acoustic guitars
| Budget | What to expect | Proven models to look at |
|---|---|---|
| Under $150 | Laminate top, basic tuners. Check playability carefully. | Epiphone DR-100, Yamaha F310/F335-series |
| $150–$300 | The sweet spot. Often a solid spruce top, which sounds better and improves with age. | Yamaha FG800 / FS800, Fender CD-60S, Yamaha FG820 |
| $300–$600 | Better electronics options, nicer woods and finish. | Yamaha FG/FS series higher models, Taylor GS Mini, Martin LX1 (small body) |
| Small / travel | Easier to carry and hold; smaller sound. | Yamaha JR2, Taylor Baby Taylor, Martin LX1 |
Classical (nylon-string) guitars
| Budget | What to expect | Proven models to look at |
|---|---|---|
| Under $150 | Laminate, soft nylon strings, easy on fingers. | Yamaha C40, Yamaha CGS (1/2 and 3/4 sizes for kids) |
| $150–$350 | Solid top, much better tone. | Cordoba C5, Yamaha CG142, Cordoba C1M (budget) |
| $350+ | Solid top with better back/sides and hardware. | Cordoba C7, Yamaha CG-TA and higher |
Electric guitars
| Budget | What to expect | Proven models to look at |
|---|---|---|
| $150–$250 | Surprisingly good today. Check the frets and tuners. | Squier Sonic Stratocaster/Telecaster, Yamaha Pacifica 012, Ibanez GRX/GIO series |
| $250–$500 | Excellent value; many players never need to upgrade. | Yamaha Pacifica 112V, Squier Classic Vibe series, Epiphone Les Paul Standard / SG Standard, PRS SE series (upper end) |
| Short scale | Great for smaller hands and kids. | Squier Mini Strat, Squier Sonic Mustang, Fender Mustang-style models |
Also budget for an amp or headphone amp, a cable and a strap. Starter packs that bundle a guitar with a small amp can be good value, but the included amp is often very basic — see our guide to amps and headphone amps.
Solid top vs laminate
A solid top is made from a single piece of wood (usually split in two and book-matched). It vibrates more freely and generally sounds richer. A laminate top is layers of wood pressed together — less resonant, but tougher and more resistant to humidity changes. For a first acoustic, a solid top is a nice bonus but not essential; for a camping or travel guitar, laminate can actually be better.
New vs used
Used guitars from reputable brands hold their value and can save you 30–50%. The risk is hidden problems — use our inspection checklist. Buying new from a shop with a good return policy and a free setup is the safest option for complete beginners.
What to avoid
- Unbranded "toy" guitars and very cheap listings with no reviews.
- Guitars with visibly high strings over the 12th fret.
- Buying only on looks — try to hold and play it first, or buy with free returns.
- Spending your whole budget on the guitar and nothing on a tuner, strings and a setup.
Not sure which type? Read acoustic vs classical vs electric first.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good price for a beginner acoustic guitar?
Around $150–$300 buys a guitar with good playability and often a solid top. Below about $100, quality problems are common.
Is Yamaha good for beginners?
Yamaha is widely recommended for beginner acoustic and classical guitars because of consistent quality control at low prices.
Should I buy a guitar online?
It is fine if the retailer has a good return policy and you check the guitar on arrival. Consider a professional setup afterwards.
