A first guitar doesn't need to be expensive. It does need to be playable. A guitar that's hard to press down or won't stay in tune makes learning harder than it needs to be, and it's one of the most common reasons beginners quit. Here's what actually matters.
The short answer
- Pick acoustic or electric based on the music you want to play.
- Get the right size for the player.
- Make sure it's playable: low strings, stays in tune, no buzzing.
- A good used guitar is often a better deal than a cheap new one.
- Add a tuner, picks, a strap and a stand. That's it for now.
Acoustic or electric?
Both are fine for beginners. Choose by the music:
- Electric if you want to play rock, blues, metal or most pop. Electric guitars usually have lighter strings and thinner necks, so they're often easier on the fingers. You'll need a small practice amp and a cable, or headphones.
- Acoustic if you want to strum and sing, play folk or country, or just want something you can grab and play with no amp. Acoustic strings are heavier, so expect a few more weeks of sore fingertips.
The wrong answer is buying an acoustic for a kid who dreams of playing rock riffs, or vice versa. Motivation matters more than anything.
Sizes for kids
Guitars come in smaller sizes, usually labeled 1/2, 3/4 and full size. A guitar that's too big makes reaching chords hard and practice uncomfortable. As a rough guide, younger kids often fit a 1/2 or 3/4 size, and many kids move to full size somewhere around their pre-teen years. The best test is in person: the child should be able to reach the first fret comfortably with their arm slightly bent. For very small hands, ukulele is a great alternative to start.
What makes a guitar playable
- Low action. "Action" is the height of the strings above the neck. High action is the number one problem with cheap guitars. Strings should press down without a fight.
- Stays in tune. Tune it, play for a few minutes, check again. It should hold.
- No buzzing or dead notes when you press each string at different frets.
- A straight neck with no cracks or loose parts.
- For electrics: the knobs and switch work without crackling, and the input jack holds the cable firmly.
A setup (an adjustment of the action and intonation) by a repair tech can make an inexpensive guitar play much better. It's often the best money you'll spend.
Used or new?
For beginners, used is often the smart move. Guitars hold up well, and a used guitar from a decent brand often plays better than a new guitar at the same price. The key is buying from someone who checks the instrument first, so you're not inheriting someone else's problem. Evolution Music buys and sells used gear at its stores in Midlothian and Logan Square and online at evolutionmusicstore.com.
Accessories worth buying (and what can wait)
Get now:
- A clip-on tuner or a free tuner app
- A few picks in different thicknesses
- A strap, if you'll ever stand to play
- A stand, so the guitar stays out and gets played
- For electric: a small practice amp and a cable
Can wait: effects pedals, a capo (unless your teacher asks for one), a bigger amp, a hard case. You'll know what you want once you've been playing a while.
Bring it to your first lesson
If you already have a guitar, bring it. Your teacher can tell you if it needs anything. If you don't have one yet, tell us when you sign up for guitar lessons and we'll point you to something at the right price for a beginner. Our Downers Grove studio is lessons only, so there's no sales pitch, just straight answers on what a beginner needs and what can wait.
Quick answers
Should a beginner get an acoustic or electric guitar?
Choose based on the music you want to play. Electric guitars are often easier on the fingers and suit rock and pop. Acoustic guitars need no amp and suit strumming and singing.
What size guitar does my child need?
Younger kids often fit a 1/2 or 3/4 size guitar. The child should be able to reach the first fret comfortably with the arm slightly bent. Very small children may do better starting on ukulele.
Is a used guitar okay for a beginner?
Yes. A used guitar from a decent brand that has been checked over often plays better than a new guitar at the same price.