How to Choose Your First Guitar (Without Wasting Money)
Buying your first guitar is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming.
With so many options, price points, and opinions out there, it’s easy to either overspend… or end up with the wrong instrument that makes learning harder than it should be.
The good news? Choosing the right first guitar doesn’t have to be complicated.
Here’s a simple guide to help you (or your child) get started the right way—without wasting money.
1. Start With the Right Type: Acoustic vs. Electric
One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to choose an acoustic or electric guitar.
Acoustic Guitar
- No amp required—just pick it up and play
- Great for beginners who want something simple
- Typically used for singer-songwriter, folk, and basic chord playing
Electric Guitar
- Easier to press the strings (great for younger players)
- Ideal for rock, pop, and modern styles
- Requires an amp and cable
Which should you choose?
It comes down to interest. If a student is excited about rock or electric-based music, starting on electric is often the better choice. Motivation matters more than anything.
2. Make Sure the Size Is Right (Especially for Kids)
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is choosing a guitar that’s too big.
For kids, this can make playing uncomfortable and discouraging.
General sizing tips:
- Ages 5–8: 1/2 size guitar
- Ages 8–12: 3/4 size guitar
- Teens & Adults: Full-size guitar
Comfort is key—if the guitar feels too large or difficult to hold, practice becomes frustrating quickly.
3. Set a Realistic Budget
You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a good beginner guitar—but going too cheap can actually slow progress.
Recommended beginner budget:
- Acoustic Guitar: $150 – $300
- Electric Guitar Starter Pack: $200 – $400
Extremely cheap guitars (under $100) often:
- Go out of tune easily
- Have poor sound quality
- Are harder to play
That combination can make beginners feel like they’re the problem—when really, it’s the instrument.
4. Don’t Forget the Essentials
When budgeting, make sure to include a few basic accessories:
For acoustic guitars:
- Tuner
- Picks
- Gig bag
For electric guitars:
- Amplifier
- Cable
- Tuner
- Picks
Many starter packs include these, which can be a great value for beginners.
5. Choose Playability Over Look
It’s tempting to pick a guitar based on how it looks—but comfort and playability matter far more.
Look for:
- Smooth neck (easy to move your hand)
- Strings that aren’t too high off the fretboard
- A guitar that feels comfortable to hold
A good-playing guitar makes learning easier—and keeps motivation high.
6. Get Guidance Before You Buy
If you’re unsure what to choose, getting advice from an experienced instructor can save you time, money, and frustration.
At On Track Music Guitar School, we often help students and parents choose the right instrument based on:
- Age and size
- Musical interests
- Budget
- Long-term goals
Starting with the right guitar makes a huge difference in how quickly and confidently students progress.
7. Remember: The “Best” Guitar Is the One You’ll Actually Play
At the end of the day, the most important factor isn’t brand or price—it’s whether the guitar makes you want to pick it up and play.
A guitar that feels good, sounds good, and fits your style will naturally lead to more practice—and better results.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first guitar doesn’t have to be stressful.
By focusing on the right type, proper size, realistic budget, and overall comfort, you can avoid common mistakes and set yourself (or your child) up for success from day one.
And remember—having the right guidance along the way makes all the difference.