10 Of The Best Beginner Acoustic Guitars in 2023

Learning to play the guitar is a rewarding experience, but it can also be daunting. There are so many different types of guitars to choose from, and it can be hard to know where to start. If you’re starting out, then you’ll want to choose one of the best beginner acoustic guitars that’s easy to play and sounds great.

After teaching and playing many different guitars over the past 20 years and counting, the best beginner acoustic guitars today offer really great value for the money. These guitars are meant for adults and not children due to their size. I recommend them without hesitation.

This list compiles some of the best beginner acoustic guitars at various price points and features. Your first guitar won’t be your last, but it should not be a hindrance to your ability to learn to play the instrument.

Summary

• Best Overall: Seagull S6
• Best Value: Yamaha FG800
• Best for Small Hands: Martin LXK2
• Best with Electronics: Epiphone Hummingbird Studio
• Best Nylon String: Cordoba C5

1. Fender CD-60S

In a list of impressive beginner acoustic guitars, the Fender CD-60S offers exceptional value for its price. In the past, I tended to shy away from acoustics made by Fender. However, with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it delivers a rich and balanced tone with great projection. The slim and comfortable neck enhances playability, allowing for easy navigation across the fretboard. The CD-60S boasts a durable construction that ensures longevity and reliability. Visually, it exudes simplicity and elegance with its natural finish and refined rosette design. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the Fender CD-60S is a fantastic choice that delivers excellent sound and performance.

Maker: Fender
MSPR: $199

Here’s my review of the Fender CD-60S.

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Pros:

1. Affordable price point makes it an excellent option for beginners or those on a budget.
2. Solid spruce top delivers a rich and resonant sound.
3. Comfortable and easy to play with a slim, playable neck.

Cons:

1. The laminate back and sides may not offer the same tonal complexity as an all-solid wood guitar.
2. Some players may find the action (string height) to be slightly high out of the box and may require adjustment.
3. The overall finish and build quality may not be as refined as higher-end Fender models.

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2. Epiphone Hummingbird Studio

The Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is a superb beginner acoustic guitar that captures the essence of the iconic Gibson Hummingbird at a more affordable price. I have found that Epiphone tends to rise and fall with quality, but this current Hummingbird seems to be keeping Epiphone on the right track. Its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides produce a warm and resonant tone with excellent projection. The slim, comfortable neck offers smooth playability, allowing for effortless chord changes and intricate fingerpicking. The guitar’s build quality is impressive, ensuring durability and reliability. Visually, the Hummingbird Studio stands out with its distinctive Hummingbird pickguard and elegant vintage sunburst finish. For players seeking a high-quality instrument with vintage aesthetics, the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is a top-notch choice. It is also great for those who want to plug into a system with built-in electronics.

Maker: Epiphone
MSPR: $449

Here’s my review of the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio.

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Pros:

1. Classic design and aesthetic inspired by the iconic Gibson Hummingbird.
2. Solid spruce top and mahogany body produce a warm and resonant tone.
3. Built-in Fishman electronics provide reliable and versatile amplified sound.

Cons:

1. The overall build quality and finishing may not be as high as the original Gibson Hummingbird.
2. Some players may find the action (string height) to be slightly high out of the box and may require adjustment.
3. The included strings may not be of the highest quality and may need to be replaced for optimal sound.

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3. Yamaha FG800

No list of beginner acoustic guitars is complete without the Yamaha FG800. It is a remarkable guitar that combines affordability with exceptional performance. I have always found Yamaha to be consistent with their build quality, and this guitar is no different. With a solid spruce top and nato/Okoume back and sides, it delivers a clear and balanced tone with impressive projection. The slim neck and smooth fretboard make it easy to play, allowing for comfortable chord transitions and intricate fingerpicking. The FG800’s build quality is outstanding, ensuring durability and reliability for years of playing enjoyment. Visually, it boasts a classic and understated design with a natural finish that highlights the wood’s beauty. For beginners and seasoned players looking for a reliable and high-quality instrument, the Yamaha FG800 is an excellent choice.

Maker: Yamaha
MSPR: $449

Here’s my review of the Yamaha FG800.

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Pros:

1. Solid spruce top provides a balanced and rich tone with excellent projection.
2. High-quality construction and craftsmanship ensure durability and reliability.
3. Comfortable and playable neck profile suitable for beginners and experienced players alike.

Cons:

1. The back and sides are made of laminate wood, which may not offer the same tonal complexity as all-solid wood guitars.
2. Some players may find the stock strings to be of average quality and may consider replacing them for improved sound.
3. The design and aesthetics of the FG800 may be considered plain or traditional by some players seeking a more visually striking instrument.

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4. Taylor Academy 10

The Taylor Academy 10 is a fantastic beginner acoustic guitar that offers exceptional playability and tone. With a solid Sitka spruce top and layered Sapele back and sides, it delivers a clear and balanced sound with great projection. The Taylor’s neck always feels fast in my fingers. The slim and comfortable neck profile makes it easy to navigate the fretboard, allowing for smooth chord changes and intricate fingerpicking. The guitar’s build quality is top-notch, ensuring stability and durability. Visually, the Academy 10 exudes elegance with its sleek design and tasteful appointments. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the Taylor Academy 10 is a stellar choice for its impressive performance and craftsmanship.

Maker: Taylor
MSPR: $699

Here’s my full review of the Taylor Academy 10.

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Pros:

1. High-quality craftsmanship and materials result in a well-built and reliable guitar.
2. Comfortable and playable neck profile, making it suitable for players of various skill levels.
3. Clear and balanced tone with excellent projection, thanks to the solid Sitka spruce top.

Cons:

1. The price point may be higher compared to other entry-level guitars, making it less accessible for some beginners or those on a budget.
2. The back and sides are made of layered wood, which may not provide the same tonal complexity as all-solid wood guitars.
3. The design and aesthetics of the Academy 10 may be considered more understated and less visually striking compared to other Taylor models.

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5. Martin LX1E

The Martin LX1E is a compact and extraordinary acoustic-electric guitar that packs a punch in a small package. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany patterned high-pressure laminate back and sides, it offers a surprisingly rich and balanced tone. I tend to recommend smaller body sizes for most beginners. The LX1E’s smaller size makes it highly portable, perfect for traveling musicians or those with smaller hands. With the addition of the built-in Fishman Sonitone electronics, this guitar can be easily amplified on stage or in the studio. The Martin LX1E is a testament to Martin’s commitment to quality and is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, versatile instrument.

Maker: Martin
MSPR: $499

Here’s my review of the Martin LX1E.

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Pros:

1. Compact and travel-friendly size, perfect for on-the-go musicians or players with smaller frames.
2. Excellent build quality and craftsmanship, typical of Martin guitars, ensuring reliability and durability.
3. Built-in electronics provide convenient amplified sound and make it suitable for stage performances or recording.

Cons:

1. The smaller body size may result in a slightly quieter and less booming sound compared to larger guitars.
2. The shorter scale length may take some adjustment for players accustomed to standard-sized guitars.
3. The higher price point compared to other entry-level guitars may be a deterrent for some budget-conscious buyers.

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6. Ibanez AW54CE

The Ibanez AW54CE is a remarkable acoustic-electric guitar that delivers exceptional performance and versatility. Like Fender, I previously hesitated to recommend their acoustics, but this one is a solid contender for a beginner. With a solid mahogany top and mahogany back and sides, it produces a warm and rich tone with great resonance. The cutaway design allows for easy access to the higher frets, while the built-in Fishman electronics ensure excellent amplified sound. The AW54CE’s slim neck profile and smooth fretboard make it a joy to play, offering comfortable chord transitions and fluid soloing. The guitar’s craftsmanship is impressive, and the natural finish showcases its elegant aesthetics. For musicians seeking a reliable and feature-packed acoustic-electric guitar, the Ibanez AW54CE is an excellent choice.

Maker: Ibanez
MSPR: $329

Here’s my full review of the Ibanez AW54CE.

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Pros:

1. Solid mahogany top delivers warm and rich tones with excellent sustain.
2. Built-in electronics provide convenient amplified sound and include a tuner, making it suitable for live performances and recording.
3. Comfortable and playable neck profile, ideal for players of various skill levels.

Cons:

1. The laminate back and sides may not offer the same tonal complexity as all-solid wood guitars.
2. Some players may find the action (string height) to be slightly high out of the box and may require adjustment.
3. The overall finishing and aesthetic appeal may not be on par with higher-end guitars in the same price range.

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7. Seagull S6 Original

I find the Seagull S6 Original is a standout acoustic guitar that offers exceptional craftsmanship and a beautiful tone. But that also means it has a bit higher price tag. Handcrafted in Canada, it features a solid cedar top and wild cherry back and sides, resulting in a warm and vibrant sound with excellent projection. The S6 Original’s unique tapered headstock and integrated set neck design contribute to its incredible sustain and resonance. To go further, The guitar’s playability is superb, with a comfortable neck profile and a smooth fretboard that allows for effortless chord changes and intricate fingerstyle playing. Visually, the S6 Original boasts a timeless aesthetic with its natural finish and stunning wood grain. For discerning players seeking a high-quality instrument with a distinctive sound, the Seagull S6 Original is a top choice.

Maker: Seagull
MSPR: $779

Here’s my full review of the Seagull S6.

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Pros:

1. Solid cedar top combined with wild cherry back and sides produces a warm and rich tone with excellent sustain.
2. Handcrafted in Canada with attention to detail, ensuring high-quality construction and craftsmanship.
3. Comfortable and smooth playing experience with a well-designed neck profile.

Cons:

1. The neck width may be wider compared to other acoustic guitars, which can be less comfortable for players with smaller hands.
2. The stock strings may not be of the highest quality and may require replacing for improved sound and playability.

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8. Alvarez AD30

The Alvarez AD30 is an impressive beginner acoustic guitar that offers outstanding sound and craftsmanship at an affordable price. I have always been a fan of Alvarez, especially the classics. With a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this guitar produces a rich and balanced tone with excellent projection. Additionally, the AD30’s mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard provide a comfortable playing experience, allowing for smooth chord transitions and precise fingerpicking. The guitar’s build quality is commendable, ensuring stability and durability. Visually, it exudes elegance with its natural finish and subtle appointments. For musicians seeking a versatile and reliable beginning acoustic guitar with superb sound, the Alvarez AD30 is a fantastic choice.

Maker: Alvarez
MSPR: $449

Here’s my full review of the Alvarez AD30.

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Pros:

1. Solid spruce top provides a bright and well-balanced tone with good projection.
2. Mahogany back and sides offer warm and rich tones, adding depth to the overall sound.
3. The affordable price point makes it an excellent option for beginners or those on a budget.

Cons:

1. The overall build quality and finishing may not be as high as more expensive guitars.
2. The included strings may not be of the highest quality and may need to be replaced for optimal sound.

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9. Cordoba C5

A list of beginner acoustic guitars needs to contain one beginner nylon/classical guitar. The Cordoba C5 is an exceptional classical guitar that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern features. Furthermore, the consistency of the Cordoba is one of the main reasons I always recommend Cordoba guitars to a beginning classical player. With a solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides, it produces a warm and rich tone with excellent resonance. The C5’s comfortable mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard make it a pleasure to play, allowing for smooth chord transitions and intricate fingerstyle techniques. The guitar’s build quality is outstanding, ensuring stability and durability. Visually, the C5 showcases its classical elegance with a natural finish and a rosette design inspired by Spanish motifs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the Cordoba C5 offers a remarkable combination of quality, playability, and tone.

Maker: Cordoba
MSPR: $532

Here’s my full review of the Cordoba C5.

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Pros:

1. Solid cedar top delivers a warm and resonant tone with good sustain.
2. Traditional Spanish construction with a fan bracing pattern for authentic classical guitar sound and feel.
3. An affordable price point makes it accessible to beginners and players on a budget.

Cons:

1. The stock strings may not be of the highest quality and may require replacing for improved sound and playability.
2. The guitar’s design and aesthetic may be more traditional and may not appeal to players seeking a modern or contemporary look.

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10. Martin LXK2

The Martin LXK2 is a travel-sized acoustic guitar that delivers impressive sound and playability. Crafted with a solid high-pressure laminate (HPL) top, back, and sides, it offers durability and resilience while still producing a surprisingly rich and balanced tone. The LXK2’s small size and lightweight construction make it incredibly portable, perfect for musicians on the go or those with smaller hands. This smaller size I like to recommend for women who tend to have smaller body sizes overall. The guitar’s modified low oval neck profile and Richlite fretboard provide a comfortable playing experience, allowing for smooth chord changes and nimble fingerpicking. With its exceptional build quality and signature Martin sound, the Martin LXK2 is a fantastic choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful beginning acoustic guitar.

Maker: Martin
MSPR: $399

Here’s my full review of the Martin LXK2.

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Pros:

1. Compact and travel-friendly size, perfect for on-the-go musicians or players with smaller frames.
2. High-quality construction and craftsmanship, typical of Martin guitars, ensure reliability and durability.
3. The “HPL” (High-Pressure Laminate) body and neck materials provide durability and resistance to changes in temperature and humidity.

Cons:

1. The smaller body size may result in a slightly quieter and less booming sound compared to larger guitars.
2. Some players may find the sound and tonal characteristics of the HPL construction to be less resonant and dynamic compared to all-wood guitars.

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What to Look for in a Beginner Acoustic Guitar

Choosing a beginner acoustic guitar can be an exciting but overwhelming task. These are just a few of the best beginner acoustic guitars on the market. With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect guitar to help you start your musical journey. Here are some key factors to consider when looking for the right instrument:

Budget

Determine how much you are willing to spend on a guitar. Acoustic guitars come in a wide range of prices, so setting a budget will help narrow down your options.

Playability

As a beginner, you’ll want a guitar that is easy to play and comfortable. Look for a guitar with a low action (string height above the fretboard), which will make it easier to press down on the strings. Visit a music store and try out different guitars to see which one feels best in your hands.

Size and Body Style

Acoustic guitars come in various sizes and body styles. The most common are dreadnought, concert, and parlor. For beginners, a dreadnought or concert size is usually recommended as they are more comfortable to play and offer a balanced sound.

Sound Quality

While the sound of a guitar is subjective, you want an instrument that sounds pleasant to your ears. Try out different guitars to find one with a tone that you like. Generally, a solid wood top will produce better sound quality than a laminate top.

Wood Quality

The type of wood used in the guitar’s construction can significantly impact its sound. The top (soundboard) is particularly crucial for sound projection. Look for guitars with solid wood tops, such as spruce, cedar, or mahogany, as they tend to produce better resonance and tone.

Brand Reputation

Established and reputable brands often offer better quality and customer support. Brands like Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, and Taylor are known for producing reliable beginner guitars.

Accessories

Check if the guitar comes with any accessories like a gig bag, strap, picks, or a tuner. Some beginner packages may include these items, which can be convenient for a beginner just starting out.

Action Adjustment

Ensure the guitar’s action can be adjusted if needed. As you progress and become more comfortable playing, you may want to lower or raise the action to suit your playing style.

String Type

Acoustic guitars can have steel or nylon strings. Steel strings are more common and ideal for most contemporary music styles. Nylon strings are typically found on classical guitars and are softer on the fingers, which might be preferable for some beginners.

Wrap Up.

Remember, the most important thing is to find a guitar that feels comfortable and inspires you to play. After purchasing, be sure to play the instrument throughout the time you have available for return. You can listen to the sound, understand the feel, and inspect closely for any flaws. Getting your first acoustic guitar is an exciting day and you want the guitar to last for a few years. Take your time to evaluate it once it arrives.

Further Reading on charlestonclassicalguitar.org: If you have further questions, then I can help point you in the right direction. And after you decide, check out our guide to keep it clean and how to tune it.

Editorial Process:

My reviews are made by a team of one, myself, before being written and come from real-world experience. Read our editorial process here.

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