If you’re looking to get into guitar playing, the first step is usually finding a guitar that works best for your budget and skill level. Thankfully, there is a wide range of instruments out there designed to make learning the basics of the instrument easier than ever before. In this blog post we will discuss some of the easiest guitars available today, exploring options for players of all levels from complete beginners to experienced pros wanting something lighter and more manageable. We will also look at popular features in these guitars such as body type, fretboard type, and electronics with an eye towards helping you find one that suits your needs and play style perfectly!
The Best Beginner Guitar For Electric Players
If you’re an aspiring electric guitar player, the Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster is just what you need! This beginner-friendly axe provides a perfect balance between quality and affordability. This guitar is designed with comfortable playability in mind and boasts a wide range of sounds that fit all types of genres. The body shape, neck profile, and fretboard radius are all designed with comfort and ease of play in mind, making it one of the most user-friendly guitars on the market today. Additionally, its combination of three single-coil pickups provides plenty of tonal variation to explore different playing styles. With its affordability and quality construction, this guitar is an excellent choice for anyone just starting out on their electric journey.
The Yamaha Pacifica Series also offers a great option for beginner electric guitar players. It features a unique combination of comfort and tone that makes it great for practice, recording, and live performances alike. This guitar is equipped with two single-coil pickups as well as one humbucker pickup, allowing you to dial in a wide range of tones. Its C-shaped neck profile offers an easy playing experience while its lightweight construction facilitates hours of comfortable playing. In addition to these features, the Pacifica Series also comes in a variety of colors and finishes making it a perfect choice for any budding guitarist.
If you’re looking for an economical option without sacrificing quality or playability, then the Epiphone Les Paul Special II may be just what you need. This guitar is a classic instrument with two single-coil pickups and a full-sized mahogany body. Its 24.75” scale makes it one of the easiest guitars to play, while its chrome hardware enhances its overall aesthetic. Additionally, its Tune-O-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece provide excellent intonation across all strings. With an affordable price tag and quality construction, this guitar is perfect for those just starting out on their electric guitar journey.
No matter your financial plan or playing style, there are countless options available to help you uncover the perfect beginner electric guitar for yourself. [1]
The Best Beginner Guitar For Acoustic Players
Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar is an excellent choice for the aspiring beginner guitarist. This guitar has a traditional dreadnought body shape and is made from mahogany wood, which gives it a rich and warm sound. The neck is also designed to be comfortable for smaller hands, making it easier for beginners to reach chords up the fretboard. The electronic preamp system makes amplifying this guitar simple and produces a clear sound through any compatible setup. Overall, this is an ideal starter guitar that won’t break the bank or your spirit with complicated techniques – just strum away!
The Fender CC-60S Concert Acoustic Guitar is designed for players who want something more than just their average beginner guitar. Its concert body shape provides a fuller sound and greater projection than more traditional acoustic guitars. This makes it perfect for those who want to take on more advanced techniques or take their playing to the stage. The neck is easy to play and has a satin finish for smooth transitions between chords. It also comes with an onboard tuner, making sure your guitar always sounds great! [2]
No matter what type of beginner guitar you’re looking for, there are plenty of options out there that fit your needs and budget. From classic acoustic guitars like the Epiphone DR-100 to the modern Fender CC-60S Concert Acoustic Guitar, make sure you find something that works best for your playing style – it’ll be worth it in the long run!
The 5 Different Guitar Body Shapes
When you start to look for a guitar, you’ll come across many different body shapes. Here is a quick guide to the five most popular shapes and what they offer:
- Dreadnought – The most common acoustic guitar shape, dreadnoughts are large and powerful sounding instruments with plenty of volume. Although they require more strength in the fretting hand to play, their size also makes them easier to hold and strum for beginner players.
- Grand Auditorium – A mid-sized instrument that offers good volume and tone balance between bass, mids and treble frequencies. Grand auditorium guitars can produce loud sound with good projection when strummed or fingerpicked.
- Concert – A smaller body guitar that offers good tone without the need for a lot of physical strength in the fretting hand. This is a great choice for beginner players or those who want to play more intricate and delicate pieces.
- Parlor – A small bodied guitar with a warm and pleasing sound perfect for light strumming and fingerpicking styles. Its size makes it easier to hold than larger guitars, but its tone may lack some of the power of other shapes.
- Jumbo – Another large bodied instrument that produces plenty of volume and has excellent projection when strummed or fingerpicked. The jumbo shape requires more strength in the fretting hand but can be easier on the arm due to its large size.
Ultimately, the guitar shape that works best for you will depend on your playing style and preference. If you’re a beginner looking for an easy instrument to play, consider trying out a few different body shapes and see which one fits your needs best. [3]
Best Low Action Acoustic Guitars: Our Top 3 Picks
- Yamaha FG800 Folk Acoustic Guitar: This affordable, yet quality guitar has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, making it great for beginners who want a well-balanced tone ideal for any style of music. Its low action makes playing chords easy on the fingers and its slim neck is comfortable to hold, even during long sessions. The body has a traditional dreadnought shape that projects sound with clarity and volume.
- Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar: Offering superior playability with its low action, the CD-60S has a classic dreadnought body shape and die-cast tuners that make tuning hassle free. It’s easy to play thanks to its comfortable neck and 20-fret fingerboard. With a solid spruce top and mahogany back, sides, and neck, this guitar produces a rich sound that resonates well with beginners and experts alike.
- Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar: Small in size but big on sound, the LX1 is perfect for those who want an instrument they can take anywhere. Its low action makes it easy to play even for inexperienced players and its solid Sitka spruce top helps deliver vibrant tones every time you strum your string. The slim neck profile is great for those with smaller hands or anyone looking for something lightweight to jam on the go. [4]
Overall, when it comes to the best low action acoustic guitars available, these three are our top picks. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a more portable instrument, each of these instruments will give you a quality sound and help you learn quickly and easily.
What Is Action On A Guitar?
Action on a guitar refers to the amount of space between the strings and the frets. The closer the strings are to the frets, the higher the action. Having high action makes it harder to play because you have to press down further on each string to make notes and chords sound cleanly. Low action, on the other hand, makes playing easier because you don’t need as much force when pressing down on strings. When looking for an easy-to-play guitar, look for one with low action—the lower, the better!
Low action also helps avoid fret buzz (when notes sound muted or muffled due to string vibration being suppressed by contact with nearby frets). High action is generally considered more appropriate for styles such as heavy metal and shredding, where the extra force is needed to generate the desired tones.
When looking for the easiest guitar to play, you should also check that the strings are properly adjusted so they are neither too loose nor too tight. This will further help you make sure that playing is not overly difficult or uncomfortable. A general rule of thumb is that an electric guitar’s action should be around 3/64″ (1.2mm) at the 12th fret, while an acoustic guitar’s action should be around 5/64″ (2mm). Again, if your instrument has too high an action, it may be worth getting a professional setup to lower it and make playing easier. [5]
Are There Any Disadvantages To Low Action?
Low action is beneficial for most guitarists as it helps to improve playability, however there are a few potential disadvantages. Low action can lead to buzzes and rattles when playing the guitar due to the strings being too close to the fretboard. This can be especially problematic if the guitar has not been set up properly with the right string height or tension.
Additionally, low action may cause problems when playing bar chords as they require more finger strength than regular chords, making them difficult to play with low action guitars.
Lastly, intonation (the accuracy of pitch) can suffer as strings become closer to each other as you move further up the neck, so having good technique is essential when using a low action setup.
In summary, low action can be beneficial for many guitarists but there are some potential disadvantages that should be considered before making any adjustments. It is always best to consult a professional when setting up your guitar in order to ensure the best possible playability and sound quality.
How To Lower the Action on an Acoustic Guitar
Truss Rod Adjustment
The truss rod is an adjustable metal bar that runs down the center of the guitar neck. Adjusting it will alter the relief, or amount of bow (curvature) on your guitar’s neck by changing the tension in the rod. Many acoustic guitars have a truss rod adjustment at either end of the neck near where it meets with the body. You’ll need a hex key to adjust your truss rod. [6]
Nut Adjustment
The nut is a plastic, bone or metal piece that is located at the top of the guitar neck and sets the height of your strings above the fretboard. Adjusting your nut can lower the action on your guitar. It’s best to have this adjustment done by an experienced luthier as it can have a significant impact on intonation and playability.
Bridge Saddles Adjustment
The bridge saddle (also known as string saddle) are pieces of plastic, brass or bone located at either end of the bridge where each string runs over its own slot in order to make contact with the body of the guitar. By adjusting these you may be able to slightly lower your action. Just like with nut adjustments, it’s best to leave this one to an experienced luthier as it can have a real impact on the playability of your guitar.
Fretwork
The frets are metal wires that run perpendicular to the neck and set the height to which you can fret each note. If you have high action, then chances are you might need some fretwork done. This is also a job that’s best left for the experts.
Ultimately, when it comes to lowering the action on an acoustic guitar, it’s often best to seek professional help from an experienced luthier who will be able to make any necessary adjustments with precision and expertise in order to ensure that your beloved instrument stays in top playing condition.
Our 3 Recommended Best Guitars For Beginners
- Yamaha F325D: This acoustic dreadnought guitar is perfect for beginning players. The body and neck are made of laminated spruce wood, which makes it lightweight and easy to play. It has a rosewood fingerboard that provides smooth action while playing. The Yamaha F325D comes equipped with a set of die-cast tuners, making tuning quick and accurate. Additionally, this model features an adjustable truss rod to keep the neck in perfect shape over time.
- Epiphone Les Paul Special-II: This electric guitar is great for those who are just starting out on their musical journey. The mahogany body and maple top provide amazing resonance and tone along with excellent sustain characteristics. It has two humbucking pickups for a huge range of tones. The bolt-on neck and rosewood fingerboard make it comfortable to play, even in lower registers.
- Fender Squier Affinity Strat: This electric guitar is perfect for those who are just starting out. It’s built with an alder body and maple neck, offering great resonance and tone. The 21 frets on the rosewood fingerboard give you plenty of space to explore and experiment with different styles of playing. It also features three single-coil pickups that provide sparkling clean sounds and a 5-way switch to add extra tonal options.
With its sleek design and affordability, the Fender Squier Affinity Strat is one of the best guitars for beginners. It’s perfect for those who want to learn guitar without breaking the bank. With its lightweight feel and great sound, it’s sure to be a favorite among beginner players.
No matter which guitar you choose, we can guarantee that each of these models will provide you with an easy-to-play instrument that won’t require any hours of practice or frustration in learning how to play. So whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your skills, these are three great options for finding an easy-to-play guitar that fits your ability level and budget. [7]
Criteria To Choose The Best Beginner Guitar For YOU
When it comes to the best beginner guitar for you, the choice can feel a bit overwhelming. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your instrument, there are some criteria that need to be considered in order to make sure you get the right one.
First of all, comfort is key when it comes to playing an instrument. You want a guitar that fits your body and feels comfortable while playing. Consider the size and shape of your body as well as the type of music you plan on playing when choosing a guitar.
The second criterion is sound quality. Guitars come in many different shapes and sizes, each producing its own unique sound. Think about how loud or soft you prefer your sound and consider how it will blend with the music you’re creating.
The third criterion is price. Guitars range in price from budget friendly models to very expensive ones. Set a realistic budget and stick to it when shopping for your beginner guitar. Remember that even entry level models can sound great, so don’t let price be the only deciding factor.
Finally, think about what type of style you want to play. Are you looking for an acoustic or an electric guitar? Knowing this before shopping can help narrow down your choices and make sure you get exactly what you need.
Keep these criteria in mind when choosing the best beginner guitar for you and make sure it meets all of your needs and expectations!
Why Beginners Should Avoid Classical & Flamenco Guitars
If you’re a beginner guitarist, it’s important to be aware of the different types of guitars and their unique features. While classical and flamenco guitars are beautiful instruments, they can be difficult for beginners to play due to their wider fingerboard and higher action. For these reasons, it’s best for beginners to steer clear from these types of guitars as they will likely find them too challenging to play.
In order for new guitarists to develop their skills, it’s important that they choose a guitar that is comfortable and easy for them to play. While classical and flamenco guitars may look beautiful, they are not suitable for beginners due to their wide fingerboard, higher action, and difficulty in pressing the strings down properly.
Beginner guitarists should instead opt for steel string acoustic or electric guitars which have more narrow necks and lower action setups that make it easier to learn how to play.
With these types of guitars, beginner players will be able to develop their technique much faster than if they tried with a classical or flamenco guitar. Steel string acoustic and electric guitars are also generally much more affordable, so beginners have the option of purchasing one without breaking the bank.
Things To Avoid On Electric Guitars
- Low-Quality Necks – A low-quality guitar neck is more likely to have a poor finish and can be made from soft wood that will warp easily with changes in humidity or temperature. This makes it much harder to play and increases the chances of getting buzzing strings.
- Poorly Tuned Machines Heads – If you don’t tune your guitar properly, it won’t sound good no matter how easy the action might be. Make sure the tuning machines are tightly secured and working correctly before playing the instrument.
- Outdated Electronics – Crackle, hums, and other noise from outdated electronic components can not only make your tone unpleasant but also create extra resistance as you try to fret notes on the fretboard. If you’re playing an older guitar, make sure to get it serviced and upgrade any outdated parts.
- High Action – The action on a guitar should be as low as possible without creating buzzing noises from the strings being too close to the frets. Having too high of action will make it hard for even an experienced player to press down on the strings with ease.
- Exposed Frets – Exposed frets can become sharp and uncomfortable to play over time, causing discomfort or even minor cuts in your fingers if you aren’t wearing gloves when playing. Be sure to check that all of your frets are well-rounded and not sticking out beyond the fretboard before playing.
- Unstable Bridge – A guitar with an unstable bridge can cause tuning issues and make it harder to play in tune. Make sure the bridge is firmly secured before playing so you don’t have any unexpected surprises while playing.
- Rusty Strings – Old or unkept strings will not only sound horrible, but they may also be difficult to press down on the fretboard due to rust and corrosion build-up over time. Always replace your strings when they start to show signs of wear and tear to ensure optimal playability.
- Poorly Positioned Pickups – If your pickups are misaligned or too close together, this can affect the balance between individual strings when playing chords or lead lines. Make sure your pickups are in the right place to get the most out of your guitar’s sound.
Having a guitar that is easy to play should be a top priority when picking out an instrument, so make sure you take all these tips into consideration before making your purchase. With the right setup and maintenance, any electric guitar can become much easier to play and last for many years to come.
Effortless Elegance: Easiest Guitars to Play Comparison
Embark on your musical journey with ease by choosing one of these guitars known for their playability. This detailed table includes a comprehensive comparison of key factors, including neck profile, fretboard radius, string action, body shape, and additional features to help you find the perfect guitar for a smooth playing experience.
| Guitar Model | Neck Profile | Fretboard Radius | String Action | Body Shape | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fender Stratocaster | C-shaped | 9.5 inches | Low | Double-cutaway | Contoured Body, Single-coil Pickups |
| Epiphone Les Paul Standard | D-shaped | 12 inches | Medium | Single-cutaway | Classic Humbucker Pickups |
| Ibanez RG450 | Wizard III | 15.75 inches | Low | Double-cutaway | Locking Tremolo System |
| Yamaha Pacifica 112V | C-shaped | 13.75 inches | Low-Medium | Double-cutaway | Versatile Pickup Configuration |
| Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster | C-shaped | 9.5 inches | Low | Single-cutaway | Vintage-style Bridge, Alnico Pickups |
Explanation:
- Fender Stratocaster: Features a comfortable C-shaped neck, 9.5-inch fretboard radius, and low string action, with a double-cutaway body and contoured design.
- Epiphone Les Paul Standard: Boasts a D-shaped neck, 12-inch fretboard radius, and medium string action, with a classic single-cutaway Les Paul body and Humbucker pickups.
- Ibanez RG450: Known for the Wizard III neck, 15.75-inch fretboard radius, and low string action, with a double-cutaway body and a locking tremolo system for added playability.
- Yamaha Pacifica 112V: Offers a C-shaped neck, 13.75-inch fretboard radius, and low-medium string action, with a versatile double-cutaway design and a configuration of different pickups.
- Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster: Features a C-shaped neck, 9.5-inch fretboard radius, and low string action, with a single-cutaway body, vintage-style bridge, and Alnico pickups for a classic feel.
Choose the guitar model from this table that aligns with your preferences and experience a harmonious and effortless playing journey.
FAQ
Which electric guitar is easiest to play?
The Fender Player Stratocaster is widely recognized as one of the easiest electric guitars to play. Its lightweight body and classic design make it a great choice for beginners. It also features low-action strings, which makes fretting notes easier and less painful on the fingers.
Which acoustic guitar is easiest to play?
The Yamaha FG800 Folk Acoustic Guitar is often considered one of the easiest acoustic guitars to play. Its smaller body shape allows for easy access to the higher frets, making it ideal for beginners. In addition, it has a narrow neck with low action strings, which makes fretting easier on the fingers.
Which classical guitar is easiest to play?
The Cordoba C3M Classical Guitar is widely regarded as one of the easiest classical guitars to play. It features a shorter scale length, which translates into an easier reach across the fretboard and less tension in the strings. This makes it great for beginners and those who are just starting out on their musical journey. Additionally, its lightweight construction ensures that even long practice sessions won’t be too painful on the arms.
Which guitar is easiest for a beginner?
As a beginner, it is best to go with an electric or acoustic guitar that has a smaller body shape and low-action strings. This will make fretting notes easier on the fingers and ensure that your practice sessions are still enjoyable. Additionally, look for guitars that feature shorter scale lengths so you won’t have to reach too far across the fretboard. The Yamaha FG800 Folk Acoustic Guitar, Fender Player Stratocaster, and Cordoba C3M Classical Guitar are all great options for beginners.
What should I look for in an easy to play guitar?
When looking for an easy-to-play guitar, there are a few features to keep in mind. First, look for guitars with low-action strings so your fingers won’t have to work too hard when fretting notes. Additionally, look for smaller body shapes so you have easier access to the higher frets. Finally, look for shorter scale lengths so your fingers don’t have to reach too far across the fretboard.
Which guitar is easiest on the fingers?
The answer to this question depends largely on the player’s skill level and preferences. For beginner guitarists, a less expensive acoustic guitar with a shorter-scale length may be best suited for their needs. Shorter scale lengths typically require less effort to press down strings and make playing easier overall. As well, guitars with low action (the distance between the strings and frets) can reduce strain and increase playability. An electric guitar is also an option, as some models have lower string heights than others that make them easier to play.
What is the hardest guitar skill?
The most difficult guitar skill to master is probably soloing. Soloing involves developing an intricate understanding of scales, chords, and arpeggios, as well as having the ability to improvise melodic lines on the fly. To be a successful soloist requires incredible knowledge and practice of improvisation techniques, and it can take years for even the most experienced guitarist to perfect their soloing skills. Other difficult guitar skills include sweep picking (playing quickly up or down a scale with a single downward stroke), alternate picking (using alternate up-down motions when playing melodies) and string-skipping (playing notes across strings).
Can you recommend guitars specifically designed for ease of playability?
Absolutely! Guitars designed for ease of playability often feature characteristics like a slim neck profile, low action, and a comfortable body shape. Models such as the Fender American Professional II Stratocaster, Gibson Les Paul Standard ’50s, and Yamaha Pacifica Series are known for their playability, making them suitable options for players seeking guitars that are comfortable and easy to navigate.
What are some features to look for in guitars that are considered easy to play?
When searching for guitars that are easy to play, consider features like a slim neck profile for comfortable fretting, low action for easier fretting and less finger fatigue, and a lightweight body for enhanced comfort during extended playing sessions. Guitars with a shorter scale length can also be more forgiving for beginners or those with smaller hands, contributing to an overall easier playing experience.
Are there specific brands or guitar models known for being exceptionally easy for beginners or players with limited experience?
Absolutely! Some brands focus on creating beginner-friendly guitars with features that enhance playability. For example, Yamaha’s Pacifica Series, Fender’s Squier line, and Epiphone by Gibson offer entry-level models that are known for their easy playability, making them great choices for those just starting their guitar journey.
What is the role of the guitar’s neck shape in determining playability, and are there neck profiles that are generally easier for players?
The guitar’s neck shape plays a crucial role in playability. C-shaped neck profiles are often considered comfortable and user-friendly, providing a natural feel for the hand. Modern “slim-taper” necks are also popular for their ease of play, allowing for smoother navigation across the fretboard. When choosing a guitar for ease of playability, consider opting for neck shapes that feel comfortable and natural in your hands.
Are there specific guitars recommended for players who experience finger pain or discomfort?
For players experiencing finger pain or discomfort, guitars with lower string tension can be beneficial. Classical guitars, for instance, typically have lower string tension compared to steel-string acoustic or electric guitars, which can be easier on the fingers. Additionally, guitars with lighter gauge strings may reduce finger fatigue and discomfort for players, making the playing experience more enjoyable and accessible.
Useful Video: The Best “Beginner Guitar” is…
Conclusion
In conclusion, the easiest guitars to play are often beginner acoustic models like the Fender FA-100, Yamaha FG800, and Epiphone DR-100. These models have thin necks, low action strings, and comfortable bodies that make learning guitar easier. They can also be quite affordable compared to more expensive electric or professional acoustic models. No matter what type of guitar you choose, practice makes perfect! With regular practice and dedication, any player can become a talented musician.
Good luck on your musical journey!
References:
- https://www.byjusfutureschool.com/blog/which-electric-guitar-is-the-easiest-to-play/
- https://killerguitarrigs.com/low-action-acoustic-guitar/
- https://www.guitarworld.com/features/best-acoustic-guitars-for-beginners-beginner-acoustic-guitars
- https://www.justinguitar.com/guitar-lessons/what-s-the-best-guitar-for-a-beginner-bc-010
- https://nationalguitaracademy.com/best-beginner-guitar/
- https://www.musicianwave.com/easiest-guitar-to-play-for-beginners/
- https://www.musicradar.com/news/best-guitars-for-beginners