Remember the moment you received your first guitar? It’s a memory that lasts a lifetime. Why not give that same experience to your child? Playing the guitar not only develops creativity and coordination, but also enhances self-confidence. We’ve got you covered with our top picks for kids’ guitars.
Learn guitar easily with our top picks for the perfect kids’ electric and acoustic guitars! Even if you’re a beginner, you’ll progress quickly and be able to play your favorite songs in no time. But it’s not just about the music – playing guitar can improve social skills, academic discipline, and provide fun times with friends and family. Check out our curated selection and expert tips for buying the perfect instrument for your young musician.
Top Guitars for Kids Review
1. Epiphone Les Paul SL Starter Pack (Best Overall Electric)
| Estimated Price | $200 |
| Weight | 16 lbs. |
| Length | 50 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 electric |
| Top | Alder |
| Back and Sides | Alder |
| Neck and Fretboard | Maple and carbon |
| Finish | Sunset Yellow |
| String Material | Steel and nickel |
| Pickup | Single coil |
Looking for a great first electric guitar? Check out this mini version of the legendary Les Paul by Epiphone. While it’s a little on the heavy side, it’s still a fantastic option for new guitarists. Plus, it includes all the accessories you need to get started, like a gig bag, strap, tuner, mini amp, cord, and picks.
Adult players rave about this model, making it an excellent choice for aspiring young musicians. With two single-coil pickups and mostly alder and maple wood, it’s a high-quality instrument that won’t need upgrading anytime soon. Plus, if you don’t love this one, there are plenty of other similar Epiphone options in the same price range.
Is your child looking for an electric guitar, but not a Fender or Ibanez style? This model might be just what they’re looking for. And even if they’re happy with any of the top three brands, this guitar is still worth considering. Don’t miss out on this great bundle deal – if the design appeals to you and it fits your budget, it’s a perfect first guitar for any aspiring musician.
2. Martin LX1 (Best Overall Acoustic)
| Estimated Price | $350 |
| Weight | 7 lbs. |
| Length | 45 inches |
| Guitar Style | Acoustic concert |
| Top | Solid Sitka spruce |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck and Fretboard | Birch and richlite |
| Finish | Unfinished partial hand-rubbed |
| String Material | Phosphor Bronze |
| Country of Origin | Mexico |
Discover Martin, a brand featured in countless “best guitar” lists because of their long-standing history creating exceptional acoustic guitars for over a century. Usually reserved for successful students, Martin guitars are worth every penny for their superior craftsmanship and actual resale value.
The LX1 is the smallest Martin model yet just as affordable as the backpack and traveler models. Even if you’re an adult seeking a smaller guitar, the LX1 will be a perfect fit. With a solid spruce top and mahogany laminate sides, the LX1 delivers a better tone than typical low-priced, laminate top guitars.
Though simple in design, Martin guitars boast quality craftsmanship with no extra bells or whistles. Keep in mind that because of the exceptional craftsmanship, proper care is essential for this investment. For a beginner, a traveler, or for easy practice, the LX1 is an excellent choice. Overall, if your budget permits, investing in a Martin guitar is well worth it. Without a doubt, the LX1 is the ideal acoustic guitar for kids or for anyone in need of a smaller guitar.
3. Squire Fender Mini Stratocaster Beginner (Best Value Electric)
| Estimated Price | $180 |
| Weight | 3.3 lbs. |
| Length | 44 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 size electric |
| Top | Poplar |
| Back and Sides | Poplar |
| Neck and Fretboard | Laurel |
| Finish | Satin and Various Colors |
| String Material | Nickel Steel |
| Pickup | Three single-coil |
Looking for a great guitar for your young musician? Look no further than Fender! While their quality may have declined slightly over the years, their student models (such as the junior-sized Squires) are still top-notch. And if the classic Stratocaster look isn’t quite right, Fender has a range of other student models to choose from – telecasters, mustangs, jazz masters, and more! Plus, Fender guitars are reliable and retain their resale value, unlike cheap imitations.
With its vintage style, hardtail bridge, and single-coil pickups, the Fender Strat is a fantastic choice for young students who want to learn on a great instrument. And with Fender’s online learning platform, Fender Play, they’ll have all the tools they need to succeed. It comes in multiple colors and will get a student used to playing a Fender, so they can easily switch to something bigger and better in the future. Overall, the Fender Strat is the best electric guitar for kids in terms of quality, value, and style. Don’t settle for less – choose Fender!
4. Fender CC-60S Acoustic (Best Value Acoustic)
| Estimated Price | $200 |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs. |
| Length | 45 inches |
| Guitar Style | Acoustic concert size |
| Top | Mahogany and solid spruce |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany and spruce |
| Neck and Fretboard | Mahogany and walnut |
| Finish | Sunburst |
| String Material | Bronze |
| Country of Origin | USA/China |
This Fender concert acoustic guitar features a select solid spruce top, ensuring excellent sound quality and sustain for both fingerpicking and strumming styles. The small neck size makes it ideal for teenagers or those with smaller hands. While Fender has a strong reputation, their factory line guitars should be thoroughly checked for good action and intonation. Once confirmed, this guitar is an excellent choice for a young budding guitarist. It’s worth investing in a protective case for this guitar.
This basic yet stylish guitar boasts a sunburst finish and solid spruce. While no case is included, Fender offers a variety of accessories and lessons, making it the ultimate choice for those wanting a reliable brand with plenty of options. Overall, this concert-sized acoustic guitar is an excellent value for a well-known brand, making it the perfect choice for aspiring young musicians who want a simple yet high-quality instrument for songwriting and playing.
5. Lava Me 2 Electric (Editor’s Choice)
| Estimated Price | $800 |
| Weight | 12 lbs. |
| Length | 37 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 carbon fiber acoustic electric |
| Top | Carbon fiber |
| Back and Sides | Carbon fiber |
| Neck and Fretboard | Carbon fiber |
| Finish | Various colors |
| String Material | L2 pickup system |
| Country of Origin | USA/China |
Introducing the newest guitar styles, packed to the brim with innovative features and unconventional designs. Designed to withstand extreme temperatures and built with space-age materials, these guitars are truly unique. The slim neck makes for easy playing, while built-in effects add an extra layer of versatility.
Perfect for people with a high budget who want an exceptional instrument for their child, but note that some features are too advanced for young students. Although costly, it’s worth the investment for its practicality and quirkiness. The mini size makes it ideal for young learners, and there’s a variety of colors to choose from to suit your taste. Give your child the gift of playing an instrument like no other.
6. Mitchell TD100 (Best Budget Electric)
| Estimated Price | $130 |
| Weight | 4 lbs. |
| Length | 40 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 double cutaway electric |
| Top | Poplar |
| Back and Sides | Poplar |
| Neck and Fretboard | Maple |
| Finish | Orange or powder blue |
| String Material | Steel |
| Pickup | 2 single coil and 1 humbucker |
Looking for an affordable electric guitar to get your child started? Look no further than the double-cutaway Mitchell model. Equipped with both single-coil and humbucker pickups, your child will be able to explore a range of tones. Plus, with a slim taper neck and hardtail bridge, your child will be able to play higher up the frets with ease.
While the electronics on cheap models can be scratchy, as long as the intonation and action check out, you shouldn’t have any issues. However, if you’re worried about quality, you may want to spring for a major brand. Keep in mind that your options are limited to orange or blue, but for the price, this is a solid option to consider.
7. Yamaha JR1 Acoustic (Budget Pick Acoustic)
| Estimated Price | $150 |
| Weight | 5 lbs. |
| Length | 40 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 acoustic |
| Top | Spruce |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck and Fretboard | Nato |
| Finish | Various |
| String Material | Bronze |
| Country of Origin | Japan/USA |
Looking for an affordable and great-sounding guitar? Yamaha has got you covered with its 3/4 size acoustic model. With excellent sound and projection, this guitar is perfect for kids, as well as for travel or camping trips. Plus, it comes in different colors and finishes. You can’t go wrong with Yamaha as a first instrument, and this one has hundreds of positive reviews to back it up.
Despite the low price, the quality build is evident in every detail, including the hardtail bridge and spruce top. This model is perfect for teens who want to start writing their own songs on an acoustic guitar. With Yamaha, you can never go wrong, but if this style isn’t your favorite, check out their other models.
8. Yamaha CGS Half-Size (Best Classical)
| Estimated Price | $130 |
| Weight | 4 lbs. |
| Length | 37 inches |
| Guitar Style | 1/2 size classical acoustic |
| Top | Spruce |
| Back and Sides | Meranti |
| Neck and Fretboard | Nato and rosewood |
| Finish | Natural |
| String Material | Nylon |
| Country of Origin | Japan/USA |
Introducing the Yamaha half-size classical guitar, the perfect choice for beginners on a budget! While it may not be ideal for hard rock or metal, it boasts a quality sound with its nylon strings and meranti sides. Plus, its forgiving nature makes it a great option for those with sensitive fingers. This affordable option is far from ordinary, it’s a versatile instrument that’s perfect for a range of genres, from classical to folk, flamenco, and even funk! It may not be the fanciest looking guitar, but it packs a punch when it comes to sound.
Students seeking a quality instrument will appreciate the reputable Yamaha brand and the fact that this guitar is cheaper than most others on the market. For those unsure if guitar is their calling, this is a great first-time buy that will let them decide if they want to upgrade to a steel string or better model later on.
Not just for students, this guitar is also suitable for many tweens and younger teens. Its availability in 3/4 size offers more options for a better fit. Take this small classical guitar with you on your travels or even on a camping trip, proving that you don’t have to worry about something pricey to get a quality sound. With this option from Yamaha, you can’t go wrong.
9. Loog Pro Electric Mini Guitar (Best Electric for Young Children)
| Estimated Price | $200 |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs. |
| Length | 29 inches |
| Guitar Style | Electric mini |
| Top | Basswood |
| Back and Sides | Basswood |
| Neck and Fretboard | Maple |
| Finish | Various colors |
| String Material | Steel |
| Pickup | Combination |
Get ready for the new electric Loog guitar release in September 2020! These miniaturized three-string guitars are great for kids age 8 and up. Even though they’re small, Loog guitars have great intonation and low action, making them perfect for learning major and minor chords. Plus, they have a slender basswood neck and only three steel strings, making it easy for small fingers to press down. Don’t forget about the accessories too – special strings, amps, and teaching apps.
Not only are these guitars perfect for kids under the age of 10, but adults enjoy playing them too because they’re simply a blast to play. So if your child is too small for a regular parlor guitar and you want to try something new, then give one of the Loog models a shot. There are more than just two models to choose from and they all sell out fast, so act now and get yours before it’s too late!
10. Loog Acoustic Mini (Best Acoustic for Young Children)
| Estimated Price | $80 |
| Weight | 15 oz |
| Length | 22 inches |
| Guitar Style | Acoustic Mini |
| Top | Basswood |
| Back and Sides | Basswood |
| Neck and Fretboard | Maple |
| Finish | Various Colors |
| String Material | Nylon |
| Pickup | USA |
Introducing Loog – the revolutionary guitar company that’s been taking the world by storm since its successful Kickstarter campaign. Their mini guitars come equipped with three strings, making it easy for kids to master major or minor chords. For all parents seeking the smallest instrument for their young prodigies, look no further. These mini guitars are essentially regular guitars with the three lowest, thickest, and hardest strings removed. Made from basic wood products like basswood and maple, they are incredibly affordable. Plus, special Loog strings are available, though slightly pricier than the norm.
Loog also offers amps (which are compatible with most acoustic models) to complete the set. And, due to its affordability, Loog guitars are becoming increasingly popular for the youngest students. They are lightweight, come with three nylon strings, and have a simple and durable construction that’s perfect for toddlers and younger children.
Loog also provides flashcards, large chord diagrams, and an app that helps children learn, making it the perfect starting point for their musical journey. And, if you or your child prefers playing the ukulele, the mini Loog guitar may be a suitable choice. For kids who are too small for a 3/4 or parlor size guitar but are still driven to learn, Loog guitars are the answer. Though they’re popular and sell out fast, they’re worth the wait. Join the Loog revolution and ignite your child’s passion for music today.
11. Ibanez PN12E
| Estimated Price | $200 |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs. |
| Length | 46 inches |
| Guitar Style | Acoustic electric parlor |
| Top | Mahogany |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck and Fretboard | Mahogany and rosewood |
| Finish | Gloss sunburst |
| String Material | Coated Bronze |
| Pickup | Ibanez saddle pickup |
Looking for a simple parlor size guitar that’s perfect for young beginners and adults alike? Look no further than the Ibanez PN12E. Its compact size and vintage look make it a great choice for travel or camping. While the pickups may not be the best, they’re suitable for first-time players. As long as the intonation and action are in working order, this guitar will be a great learning tool. Although there may be some flaws in the cosmetic design, they won’t impact the overall playing experience.
Ibanez has a variety of models aimed at children, teens, and first-time players, so if this particular one doesn’t suit your style, there are plenty of other options to choose from. Despite its small body, the PN12E has great projection, thanks to its hightail bridge and piezo pickup in the saddle. Plus, it’s a great compromise for those who can’t decide between an acoustic or electric. With its pleasing aesthetic and budget-friendly price point, the Ibanez PN12E is sure to make any new guitar player happy.
12. Jim Dandy Parlor
| Estimated Price | $170 |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs. |
| Length | 35 inches |
| Guitar Style | Parlor acoustic |
| Top | Agathis |
| Back and Sides | Agathis |
| Neck and Fretboard | Nato and rosewood |
| Finish | Vintage sunburst |
| String Material | Steel |
| Country of Origin | USA/Japan/Korea |
Discover the Jim Dandy guitar- a top-rated gem that often sells out! Perfect for adult blues players and beginners alike, this guitar is a modern take on classic parlor sound. Gretsch, an esteemed guitar brand, offers this lightweight guitar at a fraction of the cost of other brand-name guitars.
With a C-shaped neck and small size, it’s perfect for teens, campers, and buskers. The screened purfling and rosette design adds a touch of elegance to the affordable tonewoods. Worried about purchasing a lemon? No need – this guitar replicates classic parlor sound without any risk. Ideal for teens with a passion for blues, get your hands on the Jim Dandy and start strumming!
13. Luna Safari Muse
| Estimated Price | $150 |
| Weight | 4 lbs. |
| Length | 33 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 acoustic dreadnought |
| Top | Mahogany |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck and Fretboard | Mahogany and walnut |
| Finish | Satin |
| String Material | Steel |
| Country of Origin | China/Korea |
Looking for a unique, high-quality guitar for your teenager? Consider Luna – a renowned ukulele maker with an eye for interesting designs and ornamentation. While Luna’s smaller ukuleles are known for their big sound, their guitars don’t disappoint either. But, keep in mind, the dreadnought body style of Luna’s 3/4 size guitar may be too much for some teens. Still, if your teenager likes this style of guitar, they’ll love the beautiful tone and projection of this model.
Not only is it great for traveling and quick jam sessions, but its compact design belies the volume it can produce – making it perfect for adult players and beginners alike. Plus, with mother of pearl moon phase inlays and a rosette design around the soundhole, this guitar is as striking to look at as it is to play. Looking for something even more unique? Check out Luna’s line of small steel-string acoustic guitars – perfect for teens looking for a little different look. If guitars don’t seem to work for your child, consider buying a ukulele from Luna – a great place to start..
14. Recording King RPS 9
| Estimated Price | $230 |
| Weight | 4.5 lbs. |
| Length | 39 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 parlor size acoustic |
| Top | Solid Sitka spruce |
| Back and Sides | Spruce |
| Neck and Fretboard | Spruce and rosewood |
| Finish | Tobacco sunburst |
| String Material | Steel |
| Pickup | China |
Looking for a vintage-style parlor guitar that replicates the jazz era of the 1930s? Recording King has got you covered with their solid spruce top model, perfect for camping, traveling, and even teen musicians. While it may be a bit pricier, the quality of the solid wood top makes it a better investment than cheaper laminated options.
Plus, with a real bone nut and saddle, this small guitar delivers a deep, warm tone and an impressive vintage look. If you’re into blues, rockabilly, or country, this steel-string acoustic is just the right size for most teens. Browse through all the options on the list and choose the style that speaks to you!
15. Winzz Acoustic Cutaway
| Estimated Price | $160 |
| Weight | 8 lbs. |
| Length | 40 inches |
| Guitar Style | 3/4 cutaway acoustic |
| Top | Linden plywood |
| Back and Sides | Linden plywood |
| Neck and Fretboard | Okoume |
| Finish | Green, red, or black |
| String Material | Steel |
| Pickup | China |
Discover a new brand emerging from China that offers affordable acoustic guitars made with tonewoods and products that won’t break the bank. Available in 3/4 and regular size, customers have praised its unique look and the inclusion of useful accessories such as a tuner, pickup, straps, gig bag, picks, lessons, and a music stand. While some reviews are mixed, a good return policy can mitigate the risk of receiving a guitar that’s not up to par.
People on a tight budget looking for a flashy guitar will be drawn to this instrument, but it’s important to verify the guitar’s action and intonation before purchasing. Keep in mind that the wood used in these instruments is considered to be the lowest quality. It may be worth saving up for a more reputable brand if you’re looking to invest in a high-quality guitar.
16. Ibanez AVT1 Tenor
| Estimated Price | $330 |
| Weight | 3 lbs. |
| Length | 40 inches |
| Guitar Style | 4 string tenor parlor acoustic |
| Top | Solid Sitka spruce |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Finish | Natural |
| String Material | Steel |
| Pickup | Japan/USA |
Looking for a guitar that’s easier for kids to play and has fewer strings? Consider a tenor guitar – they typically use four strings instead of the standard six. While there are plenty of options out there, the Ibanez model we recommend is perfect for younger players who struggle with larger instruments. It’s pricier than some laminated options, but the solid spruce top ensures a warm and projecting tone.
This model is a great choice whether your child plans to become a tenor guitar expert or eventually upgrade to a bigger guitar. With a mahogany neck and solid Sitka spruce top, it’s both easy to play and produces great sound. Plus, its small size can also be a good fit for teens interested in American and Irish folk music.
So if you’re looking for a quality tenor guitar that’s suitable for young or smaller players, don’t wait – pick up the Ibanez today! And if you’re unsure, be sure to check out our other Ibanez models before making a final decision.
17. Kala Ziricote Baritone Ukulele
| Estimated Price | $260 |
| Weight | 2.7 lbs. |
| Length | 31 in |
| Guitar Style | Baritone Ukulele |
| Top | Ziricote |
| Back and Sides | Ziricote |
| Neck and Fretboard | Mahogany and walnut |
| Finish | Natural |
| String Material | Nylon and phosphor bronze |
| Pickup | USA/China |
Introduce your child to music with the baritone ukulele – a fantastic precursor to guitar playing! Though parents often envision their kid on a standard guitar, the baritone uke comes with a tuning similar to the guitar. A bonus? It’s much easier to fret and play! So if your child is struggling with a half-size guitar, no worries – the baritone ukulele offers a fun alternative. Made mostly of nylon strings and with its eye-catching ziricote wood design, you can’t go wrong with this choice. With this accessible starting point, your child can easily transition to a guitar in the future. Give them the gift of music!
Selecting the Right Guitar for Kids (Buying Guide)
Have you played the guitar before? If so, you likely have a grip on the basics. If you’re in the market for a new guitar, don’t overlook the “parlor” and “concert” options. These smaller instruments are ideal for adults who travel frequently or who simply want an easier option for practicing. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for your child, take a moment to brush up on guitar pointers before making a purchase. Set your potential musician up for success with the perfect guitar!
Looking for a guitar for a child? Don’t worry about the same details as you would for an adult guitar. Although they’re not as simple as ukuleles, there are mass-produced options available that use low-tension strings and inexpensive tonewoods without special bracing. As long as the final intonation and action work well, the materials shouldn’t be a concern. Plus, kids’ small hands mean you don’t need to worry too much about the fret scale length.
Acoustic vs. Electric Guitars for Kids
Choosing the right guitar for your child can be a tough decision. Some teachers suggest starting with an acoustic guitar to build finger strength and disciplined practice habits. Others believe that keeping students excited to play is the key to their progress, making an electric guitar a great starter option as long as your child is passionate about it. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which guitar suits your child’s personality and interests best.
Acoustic Guitars
If you’re a young player or find regular guitars to be bulky and awkward, consider the parlor or concert-sized guitars. The parlor is roughly half-sized and perfect for young players, while the concert is around 3/4 size and a little bigger. With the right tonewoods, these small guitars can have serious warmth and sound projection.
Plus, if you’re lucky, you can find beautiful, aged wood and warm tones on social media sale sites. Don’t confuse the concert-sized guitar with a ukulele! These options aren’t just for kids – they’re great choices for adults too. However, once we get past the concert size, they’re usually too big for a child or teen.
Discover the Perfect Instrument for Your Child: The Tenor/Baritone Ukulele! Introducing the easy-to-learn and fun-to-play tenor and baritone ukuleles. These versatile instruments can both be tuned to DGBE, making them ideal for beginners of all ages. Plus, they share the same four high notes as the guitar!
With both acoustic and steel string options available, these ukuleles are the perfect introduction to the guitar world for young fingers. Not to mention, starting on acoustic makes the transition to electric guitar a breeze due to the improved action. Get your child started on the path to musical success with the tenor/baritone ukulele.
Don’t rely solely on guitar measurements to determine if it’s the right fit for your child. Even if a guitar looks right on paper, factors like length, depth, and width can make it feel awkward. The best way to know if a guitar is a good fit is for your child to actually try playing it. If nothing seems to work, it may be a matter of waiting until they’re ready. In the meantime, consider smaller instruments and have patience.
Electric Guitars
Electric guitars may not require a large soundhole, but the wood body still resonates, albeit in a different way than acoustic guitars. The wood type matters, but the sound waves are transmitted via metal strings that are plucked and picked up by a magnetic coil. This signal is then amplified and broadcasted through a speaker.
Electric guitars offer a better action and smoother fretboards, perfect for fast solos and quick picking techniques. Plus, they have various electronic effects that enable players to customize their tone. If your kid is interested in playing electric guitar, encourage them to practice with a clean tone and experiment with effects as they develop their own unique sound.
Attention all parents of left-handed children who want to learn how to play the guitar! Don’t worry, lefty guitars are available from most manufacturers, but did you know that many left-handed musicians actually play right-handed? It all depends on their circumstances and preferences.
No matter what type of guitar you’re looking for, the market for kids’ guitars is huge and there are options to fit any budget. You can even customize your guitar specs with some of the bigger companies to create the perfect instrument for your child.
When it comes to strings, keep in mind that classical guitars always use nylon strings, while steel strings can damage them. For new players, acoustic steel strings may be tough to handle at first, but with time and practice, they’ll adjust and the pain will go away. Don’t stress too much about the details, just enjoy the process of watching your child learn and grow as a musician!
Upgrade your guitar’s sound with bronze strings – they offer warmer tones without the painful feel of steel. Don’t skimp on strings – they’re a crucial part of your instrument’s sound. Even a low-quality guitar can sound phenomenal with the right set of strings. Trust us, it’s worth the investment.
Pointers When Buying Your Kid a Guitar
Don’t waste your money on cheap, unplayable toys. As a musician, you need a quality instrument, not a GSO (guitar-shaped object) that you can barely strum on. Even experienced guitarists can’t play well on a poorly set up or garbage instrument.
To avoid frustration and ensure your success, invest in a real instrument that’s worth your time and effort. For acoustic guitars, aim to spend around $200, while electric models may range from $200 to $300. When purchasing for children, there’s no need to spend over $500.
We’ve compiled a list of great deals under $200, all of which have received rave reviews from happy customers. Stay away from items priced less than $100, as they are likely to be unplayable and not worth your time or money. Our list features modestly priced instruments that won’t break the bank. Get ready to rock with a quality guitar that you can really play!
Want to get your child a guitar as a gift? Don’t surprise them with one – involve them in the process! Take them to the store, let them try out different models, and help them pick the music genres they want to play. This ensures a good fit for their interests and leads to many happy hours of guitar practice. And don’t worry if you’re not an expert – read reviews, pay attention to substance over fakeness, and be sure to get necessary accessories like a strap, amp, and case. With these tips, your child will have the perfect guitar and all the necessary gear to enjoy it!
“Buying a guitar? Here’s what you need to know. Whether you’re purchasing online or from a local shop, be sure to thoroughly inspect the instrument before making your purchase. Don’t overlook major issues just to avoid the hassle of returning it later. A small flaw in the finish may not be a big deal, but a bowed neck or loose bridge is cause for concern.
Once you’ve received your guitar, it’s important to ensure the action is set up properly. This refers to the distance between the strings and the frets. If it’s too high, you won’t be able to press the strings down; if it’s too low, the frets will buzz. On cheaper guitars with non-adjustable bridges, bad action can spell disaster, so sending it back may be your best bet. As a beginner, it’s best to leave any adjustments to the professionals. Don’t take any chances with your new instrument.”
Achieving both ease of playing and proper sound quality for your notes is essential! Each fret you press should produce specific notes that increase in pitch by a semitone as you move up. To ensure accuracy, simply use a tuner and go through all the notes up the fretboard, starting with A, A#, B, C, C#, and so on. It’s wise to have your intonation checked by a professional music store if you’re uncertain. If it’s off, playing a chord will never sound right, ruining your performance.
As a young musician, it’s essential to have a private space in which to practice. While it’s always ideal to have an instructor or someone to provide feedback, it can be cringe-worthy and humiliating to practice with an audience. When making mistakes, self-consciousness can hinder learning. A secluded spot where your child can play without fear of squeaks, squawks, and wrong notes disrupting their focus can make a significant difference.
Get ready for some discomfort! Starting out on the guitar means dealing with some pain in your fingers and wrist, especially when it comes to those steel strings. Don’t worry, though – it’s just part of the process. Let your child know that this is like any other sport or game, and they’ll have to push through a tough beginning to reap the rewards of great guitar playing in the future.
FAQ for Best Guitars for Kids
What size guitar is right for a child?
Get your child started on the guitar without any pain or difficulty! Young hands can struggle with full-size, full-scale guitars and sore fingertips. A shorter-scale guitar could be just what they need, with the length typically below 25” and even as low as 21.25”. This makes it easier for them to reach the upper frets, and the looser string tension allows for easier bending.
For kids under 12, a short-scale guitar with a 3/4-sized body might be more appropriate for their smaller frames. However, don’t rule out a full-scale guitar! There’s no age minimum, and it’s most important that it feels right. Furthermore, starting out with a full-scale guitar means that your child won’t have to size up as they grow.
Many of us learned on full-scale instruments in our early teens, but they were often difficult to play. Why not make it easier for your child from the start and consider a shorter-scale guitar? With the right size and fit, they’ll be rocking out in no time!
How much should you pay for a kid’s guitar?
As a parent, one of your biggest concerns may be that your child will lose interest in playing the guitar and move on to something else. With so many distractions out there, it’s a valid fear.
If you’re unsure if your child will stick with it or not, it’s best to avoid spending over $200 on a guitar. This guide shows that you can still find a great entry-level guitar within that budget, and if their interest wanes, it won’t be a huge financial loss.
However, if your child has shown a real passion for playing and has had some lessons already, it may be worth investing up to $350 in a guitar. This will ensure that they have a high-quality instrument that will serve them well into adulthood and provide a better playing experience overall.
It’s important to remember that there is a trade-off between cost and longevity. While a more expensive guitar like the Epiphone SG on our list may not need to be upgraded in a few years, it does come with a higher price tag.
What makes a good guitar for kids?
Looking for the perfect guitar for your child? Keep it simple: a good guitar is one that keeps them excited and passionate about playing. Of course, finding the right guitar depends on several factors. How old is your child? Are they still growing? Have they played before or are they experienced? Are they serious about the instrument? Consider all these factors to find the right guitar that inspires your child to play.
What’s a good age for my child to start playing guitar?
Introducing your child to guitar music can start at a young age, but we recommend waiting until around 6 years old to begin playing. Trying to learn concepts like chords and rhythm before then can be overwhelming and discouraging. However, every child is different and if they show an interest, it’s worth teaching them the basics.
Additionally, the size of the guitar can be a concern for smaller children, so consider ¾ size and shorter scale options like the Squier Bullet Mustang and Yamaha JR1 3/4-Size Dreadnought. Keep in mind that your child may outgrow the guitar quickly. More information on this topic is included below.
What else do I need to play get guitar started?
Looking to start playing guitar? You’ll need more than just the guitar itself. Ensure you have the essentials on hand – guitar picks, spare strings, a strap, tuner, gig-bag- and if you have an electric guitar, an amplifier and cable – to keep playing smoothly. Check out our buying guides for help finding what you need. Start-up costs for these extras will run around $50 to $70, while beginner guitar amps can be found for around $200 with a variety of features. Don’t forget these must-haves for any budding guitar player.
Does my child need guitar lessons?
Finding a good guitar teacher is tough, but one-on-one lessons are invaluable. Luckily, numerous online platforms offer affordable and effective options, such as Fender Play, Guitar Tricks, and Justin Guitar. If you’re a skilled player, passing on your knowledge can be a rewarding bonding experience. However, it’s important to keep things fun and easy for beginners. If you’re interested in online lessons, check out Guitar World’s exclusive offers now.