Cheapest Acoustic Guitar: Affordable Picks for Beginners

We have researched 13 acoustic guitars for you.

Embarking on the musical journey doesn't have to strain your wallet, especially when it comes to finding the right instrument. For those looking to serenade with strings without breaking the bank, a selection of affordable acoustic guitars is available that promise quality without compromising on cost.

These instruments are perfect for budget-conscious beginners eager to strum their first chords, or seasoned players seeking a reliable secondary option. Our list prioritizes value, ensuring that each pick resonates with both your musical aspirations and financial limitations.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.

What to Look for in Cheapest Acoustic Guitars

Important criteria

  • Sound quality
  • Playability
  • Wood type and material quality
  • Overall build and durability
  • Comfort and body shape
  • String quality

1.) Construction and Materials

When looking at the cheapest acoustic guitars, scrutinize the build quality and materials used. Guitars made of solid wood generally offer better sound quality than laminate or composite materials, but can be more expensive. Inspect the guitar for any signs of poor construction, such as uneven frets, loose tuning pegs, and glue marks around the joints. Even within a budget range, the choice of woods for the top, back, sides, and fingerboard can greatly affect tone and longevity.

2.) Playability and Comfort

Playability is crucial for any guitarist's learning and development. A guitar with a comfortable neck shape and string action reduces the likelihood of hand fatigue and makes playing more enjoyable. Test different guitars to find one that feels right in your hands. The acoustic guitar should have a smooth fretboard and spaced strings that allow for easy chord formation and a clear sound without buzzing.

3.) Sound Quality

Even when purchasing an inexpensive acoustic guitar, sound quality should not be compromised. Try playing the guitar or have someone play it for you to gauge its tone, volume, and resonance. Different body styles (dreadnought, concert, etc.) will produce different sound profiles, so consider what tone is most suitable for your style of music. Be wary of guitars that sound dull or tinny, as they may be indicative of inferior craftsmanship or materials.

4.) Brand and Reviews

Though brand name isn't everything, reputable manufacturers are more likely to produce consistently reliable and playable guitars, even at lower price points. Research brands and read reviews from other buyers to get an idea of the guitar's quality and value for money. User feedback can highlight potential issues with specific models or provide reassurance about a guitar's performance relative to its cost.

The Cheapest Acoustic Guitars of our Choice

Our Pick
Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Natural)
Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Natural)
Type/Color: Natural Size: 38 Inch
  • Perfect beginner guitar for students and teens
  • 38-inch, right-handed, acoustic guitar with all the essentials
  • 18 smooth frets, 6 steel strings, and easy to hold neck
  • Complete starter kit including bag, picks, strap, tuner, and more
  • High-quality tonewoods with laminated basswood construction
  • Versatile, warm, and responsive sound with a high-gloss finish
  • Impressive tone, bright sound, and standout projection
  • Full-size, lightweight guitar measuring 38" x 14" x 3.25"
$ 54.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
2
enya Nova Go Mini Carbon Fiber
enya Nova Go Mini Carbon Fiber
Type/Color: Black Size: NOVA GO MINI-Acoustic
  • Carbon fiber guitars have unique scenarios.
  • Nova Go Mini is impervious to climate changes.
  • Nova Go Mini is easy to carry.
  • Nova Go Mini has a surprising sound.
  • Solid build with truss rod for adjustability.
  • Zero Fret feature for smoother tuning.
  • Fret ends are polished for comfort.
  • Available in 3 colors: black, white, pink.
  • Comes with custom thickened gig bag.
$ 99.99 *
View
on Amazon
3
Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic Electric Guitar
Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic Electric Guitar
Type/Color: Natural Size: Full
  • Easy-to-play 'C'-shape neck with walnut fingerboard
  • Built-in electronics for simple amplification
  • On-board tuner, volume, and tone controls included
  • Deep cutaway for improved upper fret access
  • Smooth satin finish with durable neck and binding
  • Reliable Fender quality
$ 119.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
4
CAHAYA Acoustic Guitar: For Beginner 38 Inch
CAHAYA Acoustic Guitar: For Beginner 38 Inch
Type/Color: blue Size: 38 Inch
  • Acoustic Guitar Kit with 38 Inch cutaway guitar
  • Includes bag, strap, picks, capo, and more
  • Professional brass strings for bright, crisp tones
  • Extra strings included for replacement
  • Classic cutaway shape with elegant blue color
  • Handmade from high-quality basswood for clearer sound
  • Exquisite lacquer finish for durable, easy cleaning
  • Comfortable design suitable for beginners and professionals
$ 56.99 *
View
on Amazon
Price Pick
Smartxchoices 6 String 38"
Smartxchoices 6 String 38"
Type/Color: Blue
  • Wooden guitar for right-handed users
  • 19 fret fingerboard for easy play
  • Tune app for accurate tuning
  • Blue finish with floral decoration
  • Perfect first guitar for beginners
  • Easy twist tuning pegs
  • Includes bag, pick, pitch pipe, strap, strings
  • Designed for young learners or women
  • Sounds great with all wood construction
  • Excellent play ability and comfortable feel
  • Adjustable strap for secure fitting
$ 45.99 *
View
on Amazon
6
Pyle Acoustic Guitar Kit
Pyle Acoustic Guitar Kit
Type/Color: Dusk Gray Matte Size: 36"
  • Beginner and children friendly black cutaway junior acoustic guitar kit
  • Perfect ¾ size 6 string guitar for lessons, recitals, rehearsals, or home practice
  • Hand-rubbed matte black finish with elegant design features
  • Complete set with gig bag, tuner, spare strings, picks, cleaning cloth, and strap
  • Specifications: Length 36”, Scale Length 23.2”, 20 Frets, Linden Plywood Body
$ 89.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
7
SUPVOX Acoustic Guitar 23 Inches Mini
SUPVOX Acoustic Guitar 23 Inches Mini
Type/Color: Red Size: 58.7*18.8*5.9cm
  • Good choice as a present for friends or families.
  • Silky tone balance supports vocals beautifully.
  • Suitable for beginners wanting to learn guitar.
  • Fine workmanship with high quality safety paint.
  • Comfortable to hold and play, 23 inch guitar.
$ 25.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
8
First Act Acoustic Sunburst Guitar
First Act Acoustic Sunburst Guitar
Model: FAD0245 Type/Color: Sunburst Design Size: Medium
  • Beginners guitar ideal for new players.
  • Medium size suits teenage musicians for portability.
  • Includes chord cards for learning hand positioning.
  • Pre-tuned and ready for immediate play.
  • Steel-reinforced neck for durability and strength.
  • Quality tuning gears with string post covers.
  • Brass strings for full, balanced sound production.
  • Nurtures love of music through engaging products.
$ 39.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
9
Best Choice Products 38in Beginner
Best Choice Products 38in Beginner
Model: SKY119 Type/Color: Matte Black Size: 38in
  • Complete all-in-one guitar kit with accessories
  • Ultimate beginner & intermediate handcrafted acoustic guitar
  • Designed with classic shape and elegant finish
  • Features a beautiful rosette for a modern acoustic look
  • Fit for all ages with 7 accessories and classic design
  • Comfortable experience for teenagers and adults
  • Reduced finger fatigue for extended playing
  • Easy to play with nylon strings
  • Strings are easier to hold down
  • Strings reduce damage on guitar bridge
  • Strings stay in tune, producing a beautiful tone
  • Overall dimensions: 38"(L) x 14"(W) x 4.3"(H)
$ 49.98 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
10
ZENY 38"
ZENY 38"
Type/Color: Black
  • Acoustic black guitar with all wood construction
  • Steel strings with glossy, smooth finish
  • Includes guitar pick, pitch pipe, shoulder strap
  • Extra set of strings for replacement included
  • Nylon carrying case for storage and portability
  • Right-handed guitar, ready to use out of the box
  • Guitar Dimensions: 38"(L) x 14"(W) x 3.25"(H)
$ 32.99 *
View
on Amazon
11
Smartxchoices 38"
Smartxchoices 38"
Type/Color: Blue
  • Guitar dimensions: 38"(L) x 14"(W) x 3.25"(H)
  • Designed for young learners or women
  • Compact body for excellent playing comfort
  • Package includes case, pick, pitch pipe, shoulder strap
  • Extra set of strings included, no assembly required
  • Blue 38 inch guitar with shiny finish
  • Full size folk acoustic guitar with all wood construction
  • Full-bodied sound, sounds great with sturdy strings
  • Slim neck provides comfortable feel, excellent playability
  • Smooth tuning pegs and easy-to-use tuner
  • Intended for right-handed users
  • 19 fret fingerboard and adjustable guitar strap
  • Comes with necessary accessories
  • Defective or broken? We will help replace it
  • Recommended for practice, learning, or casual playing
  • Warm tips included for string maintenance
$ 32.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
12
Ashthorpe 41-inch Beginner Cutaway Acoustic Guitar
Ashthorpe 41-inch Beginner Cutaway Acoustic Guitar
Type/Color: Sun Burst
  • Complete starter kit: Includes essentials for beginners.
  • Perfect beginner guitar: Designed for students and teens.
  • High-quality tonewoods: Crafted from laminated linden.
  • Incredible sound: Impressive tone and bright sound.
  • Classic design: Lightweight with classic cutaway silhouette.
$ 63.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
13
Best Choice Products 30in Kids
Best Choice Products 30in Kids
Type/Color: Natural Mahogany
  • Complete all-in-one kids guitar kit
  • Comes with carrying case, extra strings, strap, and pick set
  • Ultimate beginner acoustic guitar with nylon strings
  • Easier to hold down, reduce damage, and stay in tune
  • Produces a beautiful tone while playing
  • Easy to play for kids of all ages
  • No need to wait for arms to grow
  • Switch to full-sized model when grown in size and skill
  • Classic design with reduced finger fatigue
  • Practice the guitar for hours without getting tired
  • Perfect for kids with all-wood build and shiny finish
  • Looks and plays just like a standard-sized guitar
  • Overall dimensions: 30"(L) x 10.5"(W) x 2.5"(H)
$ 54.99 *
View
on Amazon
Search
on Ebay
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.

Your Guide to Affordable Acoustic Guitars

Beginners' Choice
Discover a range of cost-effective acoustic guitars perfect for starters. Enjoy learning your chords without breaking the bank. Browse options tailored for new players.
Casual Strummers
Find acoustic guitars that combine affordability with a pleasant sound for casual play. Ideal for those who enjoy jamming at home or with friends.
Travel Companions
Uncover the best deals on acoustic guitars that are travel-friendly. Get instruments that are easy to carry around yet resilient.
Small-Sized Options
Explore a selection of affordable, compact acoustic guitars suitable for users with smaller hands or younger players.

Questions You Might Ask

When buying an acoustic guitar, consider the size and shape of the body, which affects playability and sound projection; the type of wood, which influences tone and resonance; string type (steel vs. nylon) suited to the music you want to play; and additional features such as electronics for amplification.
Larger bodied guitars typically produce a louder and fuller sound but may be harder to handle for smaller players or beginners. Smaller bodied guitars, like parlor or travel guitars, are more comfortable for many players and are easier to play, especially for those with smaller frames or hands.
A laminate top guitar is made of layered wood pieces and is generally less expensive and more durable, but with a thinner tone. A solid top guitar is made of a single piece of wood, offering richer and more resonant sound quality, usually preferred by more serious or professional musicians.
Steel strings are commonly used in folk, country, and rock music, providing a bright and loud tone. Nylon strings are typically found on classical and flamenco guitars, producing a softer, mellower sound, and are easier on the fingers, which may be better for beginners.
Trying out a guitar before purchasing is crucial because it allows you to feel the guitar's playability, hear its sound, and ensures it's comfortable for your playing style. Personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right guitar, which cannot be determined by specifications alone.

Currently Active Poll

How to Choose Your Ideal Budget Acoustic Guitar

Starting your musical journey or just looking to strum away without breaking the bank? A budget-friendly acoustic guitar can be a fantastic pick. However, the quest to find a cheap acoustic guitar that doesn't compromise on quality can be daunting. This guide is designed to navigate you through the maze of options to uncover a hidden gem, ensuring you get the most value for your hard-earned cash. Let's help you find the perfect partner for your musical escapades.

Understanding Guitar Basics

Before you dive into the pool of budget acoustic guitars, it's essential to get a grip on the basics. Know the parts of the guitar – the body, neck, fretboard, and headstock. Acoustics come in various body shapes like Dreadnought, Concert, and Grand Auditorium. Each shape affects the sound and playability differently.
Additionally, the material or tonewood makes a significant impact on the guitar's sound. Spruce and cedar are common for the top, while mahogany and rosewood are frequently used for the back and sides. These woods are sturdy and contribute to enriching the guitar's resonance.
Action, or the distance between the strings and the fretboard, is another critical factor. A lower action is easier on the fingers for beginners, while a higher action allows for louder sound with more ring. Comfort is key, so look for a guitar with an action that feels good to you.

Do Your Research

Start your search online by checking out reviews, forums, and comparison websites. Look for models that consistently receive positive feedback from both new players and seasoned guitarists. Pay attention to repetitive complaints or praises as these are telling of what you can expect.
Don't forget to watch video reviews and demonstrations. They provide invaluable insight into the sound and build quality of guitars within your budget. Consider the different genres of music you wish to play, as some guitars may be better suited for certain styles than others.

Set a Realistic Budget

Decide on a comfortable price range, but be realistic about what to expect within your budget. While the cheapest options might be tempting, investing just a little more can often yield a far superior instrument. Aim for guitars in the price bracket where manufacturers start to take quality seriously, without adding premium features.
Remember, a great deal isn't necessarily the lowest price. Consider the longevity and resale value of the instrument. A slightly pricier guitar that lasts longer may be more economical in the long run.

Try Before You Buy

Whenever possible, test guitars in person. There's no substitute for getting a feel of how the instrument sits in your hands and responds to your touch. Your body size, hand shape, and playing style are unique, and the guitar that works for someone else might not be the best fit for you.
If going to a store is not an option, look for online retailers with favorable return policies. This approach will allow you to try the guitar in the comfort of your home and return it if it doesn't meet your expectations.

Consider Second-Hand Options

Used guitars can provide excellent value. Many players sell their instruments in near-perfect condition, often to upgrade to a higher-end model. Be cautious of any signs of damage or excessive wear, and if possible, have a more experienced player or a guitar technician check the instrument before purchase.
Another advantage of buying second-hand is the possibility of snagging a higher quality guitar for a markedly lower price. You might just find a gently used guitar with a solid top and good craftsmanship within the same budget as a new, lower-end model.

Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards

In this section, we delve into the most affordable acoustic guitars, guided by informative test reports and expert advice. To offer valuable insight, we've handpicked what we believe to be the top resources on the topic. These resources are categorized into four distinct areas for your convenience: expert reviews, forum discussions, Reddit threads, and instructional videos.
Mar 2, 2004 — The AKG Acoustics K 71 is one of the brand's more affordable headphone models, yet its versatility is apparent with portable and home...
Read more | Helpful?
Jun 29, 2012 — These guitars aren't cheap, entry-level instruments. Voyage- Air Guitars range from $399 for an entry-level model to $1,700 for the Premier...
Read more | Helpful?
Nov 15, 2020 — Q Acoustics 3030i review : Want fun? Just add music. An affordable, compact speaker gives a robust, open-hearted performance.
Read more | Helpful?
> Check out reviews for the MK012, MXL 603 and Studio Projects C4.....if you... It's a great mike for acoustic guitar if you can live with the leakage, though.
Read more | Helpful?
What do I mean budget? up to 1500 USD. Unfortunately my experience thought me that acoustic guitars are the most problematic instruments in the guitar...
Read more | Helpful?
Yes, the Yamaha F series acoustic guitars are really good value for the (not much) money they cost.
Read more | Helpful?
Yamaha 830 is the best bet under $500 new. Leaves you enough money for a case and strings etc. they are way better than any of the other options...
Read more | Helpful?
As to recommendations for a good budget guitar, an Epiphone DR-100 would probably serve you well, but again you need to get it set up properly.
Read more | Helpful?
I'd say a used f800. Probably 120 used or so. An f335 would be perfect and sell for under 100 bucks used usually.
Read more | Helpful?
Best Cheap Acoustic Guitars Of 2022 That Don't Suck!?
YouTube Logo
... best affordable acoustic guitars of 2022, that still sound and play absolutely amazing. Getting a cheap guitar doesn't have to mean you have...

Share This Article

More about Instruments on StrawPoll