Best Acoustic Guitars for Beginners
So you’re ready to strum your first chords and start your guitar journey—awesome! Choosing the best acoustic guitars for beginners can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Acoustic guitars are the perfect starting point: they’re simple, versatile, and don’t require any extra gear.
The good news? There are plenty of beginner-friendly acoustic guitars that balance affordability, comfort, and sound quality. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best acoustic guitars for beginners that will help you stay motivated, learn faster, and enjoy every step of your musical journey. Whether you’re a total newbie or just picking it back up, these guitars are built to grow with you.
What Makes a Great Beginner Acoustic Guitar?
When you’re just starting out, you want a guitar that:
- Feels comfortable to hold and play
- Has low action (the strings aren’t too high off the fretboard)
- Stays in tune and has decent sound quality
- Fits your budget without feeling “cheap”
- Comes from a reputable brand with solid reviews
You don’t need the most expensive model—just one that helps you stay excited and committed to learning.
Top 7 Acoustic Guitars for Beginners (2025 Picks)
1. Yamaha FG800
Price Range: $200–$250
Why it’s great:
The FG800 is a classic beginner favorite for a reason. It’s got excellent tone, solid craftsmanship, and a price tag that makes it a no-brainer. It’s also durable—perfect if you plan to practice a lot.
Highlights:
- Solid spruce top for rich sound
- Comfortable neck
- Available in dreadnought and concert body sizes
- Great long-term value
2. Fender FA-125
Price Range: $120–$170
Why it’s great:
A budget-friendly option with great build quality, the FA-125 is lightweight, stylish, and easy to play. It’s a good choice for casual learners or first-time players.
Highlights:
- Nato neck and laminate spruce top
- Smooth fretboard
- Built-in tuner (with some models)
- Fender name without the high cost
3. Donner DAG-1C
Price Range: $140–$180 (with accessories)
Why it’s great:
This full-size acoustic comes as a complete beginner bundle: guitar, tuner, strap, picks, capo, extra strings, and a padded gig bag. The value here is hard to beat.
Highlights:
- Cutaway design for easier access to higher frets
- Smooth neck and frets
- Great for adult beginners or teens
- All-in-one starter kit
4. Epiphone DR-100
Price Range: $170–$200
Why it’s great:
Epiphone, the budget-friendly cousin of Gibson, delivers strong tone and classic style with the DR-100. It’s an excellent beginner option for those who want a rich, full sound.
Highlights:
- Slim-taper neck for easy fretting
- Classic dreadnought shape
- Warm, balanced tone
- Reliable brand quality
5. Ibanez AW54OPN
Price Range: $220–$270
Why it’s great:
With its all-mahogany body and open-pore natural finish, the AW54OPN looks and sounds premium. It has a slightly darker, warmer tone—perfect for blues, folk, or fingerstyle players.
Highlights:
- All-wood construction
- Lightweight feel
- Great projection
- Ideal for players who want something unique
6. Taylor Academy 10 (Higher-End Option)
Price Range: $600–$700
Why it’s great:
If you’re ready to invest in a guitar that will last for years, the Academy 10 is worth every penny. It’s beginner-friendly but made with pro-level quality.
Highlights:
- Built-in armrest for comfort
- Crisp, clear tone
- Low action and smooth frets
- Backed by Taylor’s strong reputation
7. Orangewood Oliver Mahogany (Online Favorite)
Price Range: $250–$300
Why it’s great:
Orangewood ships directly to your door and offers high-quality guitars at competitive prices. The Oliver Mahogany has great tone, playability, and comes with a premium padded gig bag.
Highlights:
- All-mahogany build
- Perfect for fingerpicking or strumming
- Comfortable neck shape
- Premium feel at a beginner price
What About Smaller Sizes?
If you’re buying for a child, teen, or someone with smaller hands, check out:
- Yamaha JR1 or JR2 – 3/4 size, perfect for kids
- Taylor GS Mini – Great tone in a travel-size body
- Fender Sonoran Mini – Cool design and comfortable to play
Smaller guitars don’t mean “lesser” guitars—they can make learning way more enjoyable.
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend a fortune to start playing guitar. With the right acoustic in your hands, you’ll stay motivated, sound good, and enjoy the process of learning. Whether you’re picking up your first instrument or returning after a long break, the guitars on this list are reliable, beginner-friendly, and fun to play.
Find the one that fits your style, budget, and comfort—and start your journey today. The sooner you strum your first chord, the sooner you fall in love with the instrument.
FAQs
- Should I start with a full-size or 3/4-size guitar?
If you’re an adult, a full-size guitar usually works best. For kids or petite players, 3/4-size models can make things much easier. - Do I need an acoustic-electric guitar to start?
No. A regular acoustic is perfect for beginners. Acoustic-electric guitars are useful later if you plan to perform or plug in. - Is it better to buy a guitar in a bundle?
Yes—bundles can save you money on essentials like tuners, straps, and gig bags, especially with entry-level guitars. - How much should a beginner spend on their first guitar?
Anywhere from $120 to $300 is ideal. It gives you quality without overcommitting early on.
Can I teach myself with just an acoustic guitar?
Absolutely! There are tons of free and paid online lessons that are acoustic-friendly. You can start learning with just your guitar and a good internet connection.