Acoustic Guitar Recommendations “How do I find the right acoustic guitar without spending a lot?”

Little girl with red guitar, sitting

This is one of the most common questions I hear as a guitar instructor. Many parents are unsure where to start. There are many guitars that are marketed to kids that are nearly unplayable toys. After working at Guitar Center I have really found some great solutions! Below I posted some instruments that are low priced, that sound great and are easy to play. Even though I find natural wood guitars sound the best, I included some fun colorful options that students love. If the student loves their guitar they are more excited to play! Here are my picks. I am not sponsored, just opinionated! 😝

“Help! There’s so many options. What guitar should I pick?”

Below are my go to small 3/4 guitars for young students around $200. Baby Taylors and Little Martins are the best but they definitely cost more. 3/4 size guitars are easier to learn on for kids under 12 or so. Yamahas are amazing for the price! Click on image to see prices and purchase straight from Amazon! (I’m playing with affiliate links, bear with me.

Yamaha 3/4 Guitar on Amazon

Yamaha Acoustic/Electric 3/4 Guitar on Amazon

Fender 3/4 Guitar Set on Amazon

“Will she outgrow her smaller guitar?”

Actually…No! I love these smaller guitars and I play them all the time myself. I have small hands so they are comfortable and it’s great for travel! (Also look at Ed Sheeran’s Martin Guitar!)

Later on when she moves to a full size guitar, you will have a better idea if it is worth investing in a higher quality instrument because she will already be playing.

“Are there any good full size guitars that won’t break the bank?”

Full size guitars vary more in quality and range in price from $200 to the thousands. If you can afford a great Taylor, Gibson or Martin, go for it! They are the bast. Most of us can’t spend that much, especially to try a new hobby.

Personally I prefer “concert” style body on acoustic guitars. That means it is a smaller body shape with a more curved shape. I love fingerpicking, and it really articulated the notes and sounds amazing. The smaller body shape is more comfortable for me as well.

These are acoustic guitars. Acoustic/electric guitars have an internal pickup that allow you to plug the guitar in to an amp. There are still ways to amplify a regular acoustic later if needed.

Here are my picks for full size guitar around $300. My favorites are Yamaha and Fender in that price range. Breedlove and Seagull are also awesome options. You can purchase these recommendations direct from Amazon from these links!