Do you dream of strumming your favorite songs but stop because guitars seem too expensive? Many new players feel this way. The world of guitars is huge, and finding a good, affordable instrument can feel like a real puzzle. You want a guitar that sounds great and feels nice to play, but you don’t want to spend a fortune just starting out.
It is frustrating when you finally buy a cheap guitar only to find it buzzes, won’t stay in tune, or hurts your fingers. That initial excitement quickly fades when the instrument fights against you. We know this struggle well. That is why we dove deep into the market to separate the truly great budget buys from the disappointing ones.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will show you exactly which cheap guitars offer the best value for your money. By the end, you will know how to pick an inexpensive guitar that inspires you to keep practicing, not one that makes you quit. Ready to find your perfect, wallet-friendly axe? Let’s jump into the best cheap guitars available right now.
Top And Cheap Guitar Recommendations
- Quality Materials: Crafted with a premium basswood top and back, this 30" classical acoustic guitar provides rich resonance and structural stability. The quality nylon strings ensure a comfortable and finger-friendly playing experience for kids and beginners
- Easy & Accurate Tuning: Featuring upgraded high-precision tuning pegs, this classical acoustic guitar beginner kit makes tuning a breeze—even for beginners. The included tuner allows precise and fast tuning, delivering a clear sound
- Classic Retro Design: This wood classical guitar boasts a beautifully crafted finish with tight binding for extra durability and impact resistance. With tight string-to-fret spacing, it is suitable for beginners, reducing finger fatigue during play
- Ideal for Beginners: Available in a variety of unique colors, styles, and sizes, this 30'' classical guitar starter kit is great for new learners, young musicians, traveling performers, music teachers, or anyone exploring a new hobby
- Complete Starter Kit: This wooden guitar bundle kit includes everything you need to start playing right away: 1 x gig bag, 1 x dust cloth, 1 x extra strings, 3 x picks, 1 x shoulder strap, 1 x tuner, and 1 x capo. No extra purchases required
- Perfect beginner guitar: Specially designed for students and teens who are just getting started. This 30-inch, right-handed, acoustic guitar features all the bells and whistles. Designed with 18 smooth frets, 6 steel strings, and easy to hold neck.
- Complete starter kit: Entry-level guitar bundle includes 30-inch acoustic guitar, nylon bag, 3 picks (of assorted colors), shoulder strap, digital tuner, an extra set of 6 strings, and an instructional sheet.
- Superior-grade tonewoods: Top, back, and sides are crafted from laminated basswood for versatility and warmth, with a high-gloss finish. Whether playing soft or loud, strumming or flatpicking, this guitar remains responsive and retains its tonal integrity. This guitar is built to last.
- Incredible sound: Perfect for musicians-in-the-making, this beginner acoustic guitar features an impressive tone, bright sound, and standout projection. It's waiting to be heard.
- Full-size, lightweight guitar: Ideal for learners, this guitar is both small and lightweight, measuring 30" Long x 11" Wide x 2.5" Deep.
- COMPLETE ALL-IN-ONE GUITAR KIT: No need to buy any additional accessories; this all-inclusive set comes with a gig bag, guitar strap with pick holder, extra nylon strings, 6 celluloid guitar picks, a capo, and a cloth
- 4 MONTHS OF NO-COST LESSONS: Our partner, Fret Zealot, has lessons for all levels and thousands of individual songs to build your skills. The App (iOS or Android) also includes a highly accurate digital tuner for easy tuning anywhere!
- FIT FOR ALL AGES: Playing guitar is easy with 7 accessories, and a classic acoustic guitar shape for a comfortable experience, perfect for teenagers and adults alike
- CLASSIC DESIGN: Guitar has been upgraded with a closer proximity between the fretboard and strings, reducing finger fatigue so you can jam out for hours
- EASY TO PLAY: Learning to play on this guitar is easy with nylon strings that are easier to hold down, reduce damage on the guitar bridge, and stay in tune, producing a beautiful tone while playing; OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 38"(L) x 14"(W) x 4.3"(H)
- BEGINNER CLASSICAL GUITAR: Would you like your child to become a guitarist?? Is your child always begging you to get him/her a guitar to play?? Do you feel your child will get calmer or stimulated by playing guitar?? here is your answer just get this great Master-Play guitar and get them started playing let him/her start learning or let her/him get stimulated by playing this nice real guitar
- BEST QUALITY MATERIAL this amazing guitar is made from linden wood, top, bottom, and neck which is the most popular wood made for guitars. It’s strong, sturdy won't get affected if falling down has a great effect for the noise, the strings are half steel and half nylon which this is the right way to start playing guitar this strings are designed to have a comfortability to play with fingers without getting hurt your kids small fingers
- PRIME PACKAGE you get a whole guitar package you get a strap to hold the guitar on your shoulder than you get extra set of strings you get picks so you can play guitar with the picks you get a nice case to hold the the guitar inside guitar has traps on it to hold the whole guitar on the back you get a tuner which can guide you the right tune you also get a capo which will give a great direction for the tunes
- PRIME PACKAGE you get a whole guitar package you get a strap to hold the guitar on your shoulder than you get extra set of strings you get picks so you can play guitar with the picks you get a nice case to hold the the guitar inside guitar has traps on it to hold the whole guitar on the back you get a tuner which can guide you the right tune you also get a capo which will give a great direction for the tunes
- GREAT SOUNDS this guitar will give you nice and real tunes you can play whatever style music you like this guitar won't disappoint you, it will give you real tunes, on the top of this guitar you will get 6 tuner for your 6 strings where you will give the opportunity to give you the sounds you want to
- ALL WOOD CONSTRUCTION: Better build materials for a better playing experience. Pyle uses 100% wood parts (including the bridge and fingerboard) with internal X bracing support to ensure proper intonation and that strings sit at proper height
- ¾ SCALE 36” BODY: The smaller scale is ideal for younger student hands, designed for 7 to 11 years old (4’3” - 4’11” height) OR for adults looking easier fingerings. 7 coat glossy finish looks stunning and help protect from damage and humidity
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO START PLAYING: Full accessory bundle includes guitar picks, adjustable shoulder strap (fit both kids and adults), cleaning cloth and a zip storage carry case with adjustable backpack style shoulder straps and accessory pocket
- PYLE MOBILE TUNER APP: (iOS or Android) is free with no subscription or login needed. Setup and tune up in confidence with our guided setup and product care videos. Smartphone tuners are better! More accurate and easier to use than traditional clip tuners
- 2 MONTH LESSONS: Get started on your musical journey with access to 1000’s of hours of online courses, exercises and 100’s of popular song tutorials (with tabs). Learn at your own pace and at your own schedule from any device
- COMPLETE ALL-IN-ONE GUITAR KIT: No need to buy any additional accessories; this all-inclusive set comes with a gig bag, guitar strap with pick holder, extra nylon strings, 6 celluloid guitar picks, a capo, and a cloth
- 4 MONTHS OF NO-COST LESSONS: Our partner, Fret Zealot, has lessons for all levels and thousands of individual songs to build your skills. The App (iOS or Android) also includes a highly accurate digital tuner for easy tuning anywhere!
- FIT FOR ALL AGES: Playing guitar is easy with 7 accessories, and a classic acoustic guitar shape for a comfortable experience, perfect for teenagers and adults alike
- CLASSIC DESIGN: Guitar has been upgraded with a closer proximity between the fretboard and strings, reducing finger fatigue so you can jam out for hours
- EASY TO PLAY: Learning to play on this guitar is easy with nylon strings that are easier to hold down, reduce damage on the guitar bridge, and stay in tune, producing a beautiful tone while playing; OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 38"(L) x 14"(W) x 4.3"(H)
- Perfect beginner guitar: Specially designed for students and teens who are just getting started. This 38-inch, right-handed, acoustic guitar features all the bells and whistles. Designed with 18 smooth frets, 6 steel strings, and easy to hold neck.
- Complete starter kit: Entry-level guitar bundle includes 38-inch acoustic guitar, nylon bag, 3 picks (of assorted colors), shoulder strap, digital tuner, pitch pipe, an extra set of 6 strings, and an instructional sheet.
- Superior-grade tonewoods: Top, back, and sides are crafted from laminated basswood for versatility and warmth, with a high-gloss finish. Whether playing soft or loud, strumming or flatpicking, this guitar remains responsive and retains its tonal integrity. This guitar is built to last.
- Incredible sound: Perfect for musicians-in-the-making, this beginner acoustic guitar features an impressive tone, bright sound, and standout projection. It's waiting to be heard.
- Full-size, lightweight guitar: Ideal for learners, this guitar is both small and lightweight, measuring 38" Long x 14" Wide x 3.25" Deep.
- 30” BEGINNER GUITAR SET: Pyle brings you a complete all-in-one acoustic guitar set, everything you need to start playing. The guitar comes w/ a gig bag case, detachable nylon shoulder strap, pitch pipe tuner, and (3) picks
- STANDARD FULL SIZE: Features a full scale 6 string standard size guitar perfect for use on guitar lessons, recitals, band rehearsals, on-stage performances or even when just practicing at home. Great for beginners and children learning to play guitar
- LINDEN WOOD: The classical guitar features handcrafted wooden construction w/ ebonized Maplewood bridge, linden wood body, high gloss deep cherry polished body and back, chrome-accented and Pearloid tuner pegs
- PERFECT FOR KIDS: This traditional junior classic acoustic stringed instrument kit is excellent for both beginner and children looking to start guitar playing. It brings you everything you need to start playing straight out of the box
- SPECIFICATIONS: Total Length: 30”; Scale Length: 19.3”; Headstock Material: Nato Wood; Fretboard Material: Dyed Maplewood; Body Material: Linden Wood; Number of Frets: 18 Frets; Nut Width Spacing: 40mm; Total Dimensions: 30.0” L x 11.3” W x 2.8” H
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Snagging Your First (or Next) Affordable Guitar
Finding a great guitar that does not empty your wallet is possible. This guide helps you pick the best “and cheap guitar” for your needs. We focus on what matters most when your budget is tight.
Key Features to Look For in an Affordable Guitar
Even cheap guitars need certain features to sound good and feel right. Pay close attention to these areas:
Playability and Comfort
- Neck Shape: A thin neck feels easier for small hands or beginners. A chunky neck might suit larger hands better.
- Action Height: This is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Low action means strings are easy to press down. High action makes your fingers hurt quickly. Check reviews; sometimes, cheap guitars need a professional setup to lower the action.
Tuning Stability
- Tuning Machines (Tuners): These metal knobs on the headstock hold the tuning. Cheap, plastic-geared tuners slip often. Look for sealed, metal tuners. They keep your guitar in tune longer.
Electronics (For Electric Guitars)
- Pickups: These capture the string vibrations. Basic single-coil or humbucker pickups are fine for starting. Read reviews to ensure the pickups do not sound too muddy or noisy.
Important Materials Matter, Even on a Budget
The wood used affects the sound and durability. Manufacturers use different materials to keep costs down.
Body and Top Wood
Most cheap guitars use laminated woods (thin layers glued together) instead of solid wood. This is normal for budget instruments.
- Acoustic Guitars: Look for a decent laminate top (like spruce or mahogany). A solid top, even on a cheap guitar, significantly improves the sound over time.
- Electric Guitars: Body wood matters less on cheap electrics because the pickups do most of the work. Basswood or poplar are common and acceptable woods.
Fretboard Material
The fretboard is where you press the strings. Rosewood or maple are standard. Cheaper alternatives sometimes use dyed, pressed wood. Ensure the fretboard feels smooth. Rough edges bite your hand.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several small details separate a frustrating cheap guitar from a playable one.
Quality Reducers (Things to Avoid)
- Fret Sprout: If the metal fret ends stick out sharply past the edge of the neck, the guitar quality is low. This needs filing down.
- Poor Finish Work: Thick, uneven paint jobs can trap vibrations and make the guitar sound dull.
- Cheap Nuts and Bridges: The nut (where strings rest at the top of the neck) should ideally be plastic or bone, not soft, rough plastic.
Quality Boosters (Good Signs)
- Good Setup: A guitar that is set up correctly right out of the box plays much better. Search for brands known for decent quality control.
- Hardware Consistency: If the knobs, switches, and bridge pieces feel solid and turn smoothly, the manufacturer paid attention to detail.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who is this guitar for? Your use case dictates the best choice.
The Absolute Beginner
You need something comfortable that stays in tune enough for practice. An acoustic guitar with a smaller body size (like a concert or parlor size) often suits children or smaller adults better. Electric guitars are often easier to play initially because the strings are lighter gauge.
The Hobbyist/Bedroom Player
If you only play for fun at home, you can look at slightly cheaper electric guitar packs. Focus on getting a guitar that sounds good through an amplifier, even if the acoustic sound is weak.
The Backup Instrument
If you already own a nice guitar, a cheap one serves well for travel or leaving at a friend’s house. Here, durability matters more than premium tone.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Cheap Guitars
Q: Can a cheap guitar sound good?
A: Yes, a cheap guitar can sound good, especially an electric one plugged into an amplifier. Acoustic sound quality depends more on the top wood.
Q: How much should I expect to pay for a truly cheap guitar?
A: Generally, you should budget between $100 and $250 for a decent starter guitar package. Anything significantly lower often suffers from major playability issues.
Q: Do I need to buy accessories separately?
A: Often, yes. Look for “starter packs” if you need a tuner, strap, and gig bag. Buying them separately can sometimes get you better individual quality.
Q: Are cheap electric guitars harder to tune than acoustics?
A: Not necessarily. Cheap acoustic tuners are often worse than cheap electric tuners. However, electric strings are typically lighter, making them feel easier to bend.
Q: What is the biggest problem with budget guitars?
A: The biggest problem is usually poor factory setup. The action is often too high, making it painful to learn on.
Q: Is it better to buy a used, slightly more expensive guitar than a brand new cheap one?
A: Often, yes. A used guitar that cost $300 new might be a better buy than a $150 guitar new, because the used one has already proven its basic quality.
Q: Should I get an acoustic or electric guitar first if the budget is tight?
A: Electric guitars are physically easier to play for beginners due to lighter strings. Acoustic guitars require more finger strength initially.
Q: What is a ‘gig bag’?
A: A gig bag is a soft, padded cover for your guitar, offering light protection against dust and small bumps. It is not a hard case.
Q: How long will a cheap guitar last?
A: A well-cared-for budget guitar can last many years, even through intermediate playing levels. You might upgrade the electronics or hardware later.
Q: What does ‘setup’ mean for a guitar?
A: A setup involves adjusting the neck relief, string height (action), and intonation so the guitar plays in tune and feels comfortable.