Best Online Guitar Courses for Beginners
If you’re just starting out and want steady progress without the pressure of in-person lessons, online guitar courses for beginners are the perfect solution. They’re affordable (sometimes even free), flexible, and often provide a clearer structure than bouncing around random YouTube videos.
The best part? With the right online guitar courses for beginners, you’ll have a roadmap that guides you from your very first chord to playing full songs. This guide highlights the top platforms that deliver structured lessons, engaging practice routines, and beginner-friendly support—so you can learn guitar with clarity and confidence.
1. JustinGuitar (Best Free Beginner Course Overall)
Price: Free (optional app upgrades)
Format: Video + written lessons
Platform: Web, iOS, Android
Why it’s great:
Justin Sandercoe has taught millions of people how to play—literally. His Beginner Course is famous for its down-to-earth approach, step-by-step progression, and encouraging tone.
What you’ll learn:
- Chords, strumming, and rhythm
- Playing real songs early on
- Music theory basics
- Practice routines and self-evaluation
Perfect for: True beginners who want a proven, friendly method to follow at no cost
2. Fender Play (Best for Quick Song-Based Progress)
Price: ~$10/month (free trial available)
Format: Bite-sized videos + progress tracking
Platform: Web, iOS, Android
Why it’s great:
Fender Play is clean, modern, and built for busy learners. You choose a “learning path” based on your favorite genre and get short, structured lessons that build real-world skills.
What you’ll learn:
- Chords, riffs, and strumming
- Easy songs from Day 1
- Style-focused techniques (rock, pop, folk, blues)
- Personalized learning path
Perfect for: Visual learners who want quick wins and love playing along with real songs
3. Guitar Tricks (Best Structured Course for Long-Term Growth)
Price: ~$20/month or ~$180/year (free trial available)
Format: Video lessons with roadmap
Platform: Web, iOS, Android
Why it’s great:
Their Core Learning System is one of the most thorough and easy-to-follow guitar programs online. It’s like getting a full curriculum—complete with styles, technique, and theory.
What you’ll learn:
- Absolute beginner to intermediate guitar
- Genre-specific lessons (blues, country, metal, rock)
- 1,000+ full song tutorials
- Soloing and fretboard navigation
Perfect for: Beginners who want a complete, all-in-one solution from day one to advanced levels
4. Yousician (Best for Gamified Learning & Feedback)
Price: Free limited access; Premium ~$15/month
Format: Interactive app
Platform: Web, iOS, Android
Why it’s great:
Yousician listens to your playing and scores you in real time—like a video game for guitar. It’s engaging, visual, and helps keep you on track with short daily goals.
What you’ll learn:
- Chords, riffs, finger exercises
- Timing, accuracy, and technique
- Step-by-step levels with challenges
- Built-in practice and review tools
Perfect for: Learners who like instant feedback and structured challenges
5. TrueFire (Best for Learning With Pro-Level Instructors)
Price: Free limited content; All Access ~$30/month
Format: Video lessons + jam tracks + downloadable files
Platform: Web, iOS, Android
Why it’s great:
TrueFire features some of the world’s top guitar educators. While it’s better known for intermediate and advanced content, their Learning Paths for beginners are excellent too.
What you’ll learn:
- Foundational skills + real songs
- Improvisation early on
- Multiple styles and techniques
- How to solo, strum, and groove
Perfect for: Motivated beginners who want serious skills and high-quality instruction
6. JamPlay (Best for Style Exploration)
Price: ~$20/month
Format: On-demand video courses + artist series
Platform: Web, iOS, Android
Why it’s great:
JamPlay gives you beginner pathways plus the ability to explore genres early—like metal, funk, acoustic fingerstyle, and more. You also get lessons from touring musicians and recording artists.
What you’ll learn:
- Beginner essentials
- How to play in different genres
- Real-world licks and riffs
- Technique + performance tips
Perfect for: Curious learners who want to try multiple styles right from the start
7. ArtistWorks: Guitar (Best for Personal Feedback)
Price: ~$23/month (billed annually)
Format: Video lessons + student video exchange
Platform: Web only
Why it’s great:
You get pre-recorded lessons from world-renowned teachers like Paul Gilbert and Bryan Sutton—and you can submit videos for personal feedback.
What you’ll learn:
- Chords, scales, rhythm
- Genre-specific technique
- Theory + musical application
- Video feedback from instructors
Perfect for: Learners who want a “personal touch” without hiring a tutor
Bonus Tip: Combine Platforms for the Best Experience
You don’t have to pick just one. Many students start with:
- JustinGuitar for free structure
- Fender Play or Guitar Tricks for songs and visual feedback
- Ultimate Guitar App for daily song practice
Pair your course with a tuner app, metronome, and practice log, and you’re golden.
Conclusion
Learning guitar online has never been easier—or more affordable. Whether you want a free roadmap, real-time feedback, or full professional instruction, these beginner guitar courses give you the flexibility and results you’re looking for.
Pick the platform that fits your learning style. Commit to 15–30 minutes a day. And let the music do the rest.
Your guitar journey starts now.
FAQs
- Do I need to pay to get good results from online courses?
Not necessarily. JustinGuitar is 100% free and highly effective. Paid platforms offer extra features and depth. - Can I switch between courses?
Yes! Many students try more than one platform before finding their ideal learning style. - Are these courses good for acoustic and electric guitar?
Most work for both—though some offer specific paths for each instrument. - Do I need any gear beyond the guitar?
Not much. A tuner app, pick, and internet connection are enough to get started.
How long will it take to play songs?
With regular practice, you can play simple songs in 2–4 weeks and sound confident within a few months.