Imagine your child strumming their own electric guitar, creating awesome sounds and rocking out to their favorite tunes. It’s a dream for many budding musicians! But for parents, turning that dream into reality can feel a little overwhelming. With so many electric guitars out there, how do you pick the perfect one for a young player?
Choosing the right electric guitar for a kid isn’t just about picking the coolest color. You need to think about size, weight, sound, and even how easy it is for little hands to play. Getting it wrong can lead to frustration for your child and a dusty guitar gathering dust in the corner. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this exciting journey!
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know. We’ll explore what makes a great beginner electric guitar for kids, what features to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing an instrument that sparks your child’s passion and sets them on the path to becoming a rockstar. Let’s dive in and find that perfect guitar!
Our Top 5 Electric Guitar For Kids Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Electric Guitar For Kids Detailed Reviews
1. Donner 30 Inch Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Kits ST Style Mini Electric Guitar for Boys Girls with Amp
Rating: 9.2/10
The Donner 30 Inch Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Kit in vibrant red is a fantastic starting point for young aspiring musicians. This ST-style mini electric guitar is designed specifically for children, making learning to play fun and comfortable.
What We Like:
- Lightweight and Portable: Weighing only 5.97 LB, it’s easy for kids to handle and carry around, reducing fatigue during practice sessions.
- Designed for Young Hands: The neck length and fingerboard width are carefully chosen based on research, fitting most children’s body sizes and hand shapes perfectly.
- Protects Delicate Skin: The ergonomic design and smooth matte lacquer finish prevent discomfort and skin irritation, allowing for longer playing times.
- Impressive Sound: Don’t let its size fool you! This mini guitar produces a full, rich tone suitable for various music styles, thanks to its classic single-coil pickup.
- Ready to Rock Immediately: The kit includes everything a beginner needs: an amplifier with clean and distortion channels, picks, cables, a gig bag, a strap, and extra strings. Free online lessons are also provided!
What Could Be Improved:
- Tuning Recommendation: For better string tension and pitch stability on this shorter scale guitar, it’s recommended to tune it 1 or 2 notes higher than standard tuning.
This Donner guitar kit makes learning music accessible and enjoyable for kids. It’s a complete package that encourages creativity and musical exploration right from the start.
2. Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit w/ 5W Amplifier
Rating: 8.6/10
The Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit is a fantastic way for young aspiring musicians to begin their musical journey. This all-black electric guitar is perfectly sized for children, allowing them to comfortably learn chords and melodies from a young age. It’s designed to be a complete package, offering everything a beginner needs to start playing right out of the box.
What We Like:
- PERFECT SIZE FOR KIDS: The 30-inch size makes it easy for children to hold and play, so they can start learning sooner.
- 4 MONTHS OF NO-COST LESSONS: Access to Fret Zealot lessons and songs helps kids learn quickly. The app also includes a tuner.
- HIGH-QUALITY: The all-wood build and shiny finish make it look and feel like a real guitar, built to last.
- COMPLETE ALL-IN-ONE GUITAR KIT: Everything is included: gig bag, extra strings, strap, cloth, and picks. You don’t need to buy anything else.
- AMPLIFIER INCLUDED: The 5-watt amplifier lets kids hear their music louder and clearer, and it’s battery-operated for portability.
What Could Be Improved:
- The amplifier is battery-operated, which might require frequent battery changes.
- While the lessons are great, the app might require a compatible device (iOS or Android).
This starter kit provides a fun and accessible entry point into playing the electric guitar. It’s an excellent gift for any child eager to make some noise and learn a new skill.
3. Best Choice Products Kids Electric Musical Guitar Play Set
Rating: 9.2/10
Unleash your child’s inner rockstar with the Best Choice Products Kids Electric Musical Guitar Play Set! This awesome blue guitar bundle comes with everything a budding musician needs to start their journey. It’s a complete package designed to spark creativity and provide hours of entertainment.
What We Like:
- It’s an ALL-IN-ONE PLAYSET! The set includes a guitar, amp, and microphone. Kids can even decorate their guitar with two sticker sheets.
- It’s a BEGINNER GUITAR designed to help kids discover their musical talents. They can strum pretend strings and use the whammy bar to remix tunes.
- It offers INTERACTIVE FUN. A wired connection links the guitar to the amp, and kids can enjoy six built-in demo songs with just a push of a button.
- You can CONNECT YOUR DEVICES! The amp has an AUX input, so your child can plug in their own music player and jam along.
- It’s a CHILD-FRIENDLY DESIGN. The guitar is built tough and has smooth, beveled edges to keep playtime safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The guitar’s dimensions are 9.5″(L) x 1″(W) x 27.25″(H), which might be a bit large for very young children.
- While it includes demo songs, more song variety might be appreciated by some users.
This play set provides a fantastic introduction to music for young children. It’s a fun and engaging way for them to explore their creativity and have a blast pretending to be their favorite musicians.
4. Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit w/ 5W Amplifier
Rating: 8.7/10
Unleash your child’s inner rockstar with the Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit in a cool Metallic Blue! This kit is designed specifically for young musicians, making learning fun and accessible from the very start. It’s the perfect size for little hands, so they won’t have to wait years to start playing their favorite tunes.
What We Like:
- The 30-inch size is just right for kids, letting them start playing sooner.
- It includes 4 months of free lessons from Fret Zealot, plus a handy tuner app.
- The guitar is built with wood and has a shiny finish, so it looks and plays like a real guitar.
- Everything you need is in the box: gig bag, extra strings, strap, cloth, and picks!
- The 5-watt amplifier is battery-operated and easy to connect, so they can start making music right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- The amplifier is battery-operated, which means you’ll need to keep buying batteries.
- While it’s a great starter kit, serious young musicians might want to upgrade to a larger guitar and amp as they improve.
This complete starter kit makes it easy for any child to begin their musical journey. It’s an exciting way to introduce them to the world of music.
5. RVONE Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Kit 30 Inch
Rating: 8.9/10
The RVONE Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Kit is a fantastic way to introduce young musicians to the exciting world of electric guitar. This 30-inch mini ST-style guitar comes in a vibrant red color and is designed specifically for budding rockstars aged 6 to 12. It’s a complete package, meaning kids can start playing right away without needing to buy anything else.
What We Like:
- Perfectly sized for young hands, making it easy and comfortable to hold and play.
- The slim neck and smooth fingerboard let kids practice for hours without getting tired.
- It arrives ready to play, so beginners can jump right into learning songs.
- The included 5W mini amp offers different sound options, from clean tones to rock distortion, perfect for home practice.
- This kit has everything a beginner needs: guitar, amp, gig bag, tuner, strap, cable, picks, and even extra strings.
- It’s a wonderful gift that encourages creativity, builds confidence, and sparks a lifelong love for music.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for beginners, the 5W amp might be a bit basic for more advanced practice needs.
- The “ready to play” setup is convenient, but a quick check of tuning and intonation is always recommended for optimal sound.
This RVONE guitar kit offers an excellent starting point for any child eager to learn guitar. It truly makes learning fun and accessible.
Choosing the Right Electric Guitar for Your Young Rock Star
Getting your child their first electric guitar is an exciting step! It opens up a world of music and creativity. But with so many options, how do you pick the best one? This guide will help you find a guitar that’s fun to play, sounds great, and lasts. We’ll cover what to look for, what’s important, and what makes a good guitar for kids.
Key Features to Look For
Size Matters!
Electric guitars come in different sizes. For kids, a smaller, lighter guitar is key. Look for models labeled as 3/4 size or short scale. These are easier for smaller hands to hold and play. They also reduce strain on their developing shoulders and arms.
Playability is King
A guitar needs to be comfortable to play. Check the “action” – this is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Lower action makes it easier to press down the strings. This is super important for beginners. A good guitar won’t fight your child’s fingers.
Sound Quality
Even beginner guitars can sound good! Look for guitars with decent pickups. Pickups are the parts that turn string vibrations into sound. Better pickups give a clearer, richer tone. You don’t need professional sound, but a pleasant sound keeps kids motivated.
Durability
Kids can be a bit rough. A sturdy guitar will withstand bumps and drops. Solid wood bodies are generally more durable than hollow ones. Good hardware, like tuners and bridges, also lasts longer.
Important Materials
The wood used in a guitar affects its sound and durability. Common woods for guitar bodies include:
- Basswood: Lightweight and affordable, good for beginners.
- Alder: A popular choice, offers balanced tone.
- Poplar: Another good, budget-friendly option.
The fretboard is usually made of maple or rosewood. Both are good. The neck is often maple, which is strong and stable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Guitar Great
- Good Setup: A guitar that’s properly set up from the start makes a huge difference. This means the action is low, and the intonation (how in tune the notes are up the neck) is correct.
- Quality Hardware: Smooth-tuning machines and a solid bridge help the guitar stay in tune and sound better.
- Comfortable Neck Profile: A neck that fits nicely in a child’s hand makes playing much easier.
What Can Make a Guitar Less Ideal
- High Action: Strings that are too far from the fretboard make it hard to play chords.
- Poorly Made Parts: Cheap tuning pegs can slip, and a flimsy bridge can cause tuning problems.
- Heavy Weight: A guitar that’s too heavy will be uncomfortable and discourage practice.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good electric guitar for kids is fun and easy to play. It should inspire them to pick it up and practice. Kids can use these guitars for:
- Learning basic chords and scales.
- Playing along with their favorite songs.
- Joining school music programs.
- Jamming with friends.
- Exploring their creativity through music.
The goal is to make learning enjoyable. A comfortable, good-sounding guitar makes all the difference in keeping a child engaged with their new musical journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size electric guitar is best for a child?
A: For younger children (around 5-8 years old), a 1/2 size or 3/4 size guitar is usually best. For older children (9+ years old), a 3/4 size or a full-size guitar might be suitable, depending on their height.
Q: Do I need an amplifier for an electric guitar?
A: Yes, you absolutely need an amplifier. Electric guitars don’t make much sound on their own. The amplifier makes the sound loud enough to hear and shape.
Q: What are the essential accessories for a child’s electric guitar?
A: You’ll need an amplifier, a guitar cable to connect the guitar to the amp, picks, a strap to play standing up, and a tuner to keep the guitar in tune. A gig bag or case is also good for protection.
Q: How important is the brand of the guitar?
A: For beginners, the brand is less important than the guitar’s size, playability, and overall quality. Many reputable brands offer excellent beginner models.
Q: Can a child learn on a full-size guitar?
A: Some older or taller children can learn on a full-size guitar, but it can be more challenging. A smaller guitar is generally recommended for comfort and ease of learning.
Q: How do I know if the guitar’s “action” is too high?
A: If the strings feel very hard to press down, or if you see a large gap between the strings and the fretboard, the action is likely too high. A guitar technician can often adjust this.
Q: Should I buy a used guitar for my child?
A: A used guitar can be a great option if it’s in good condition. However, it’s best to have someone experienced check it over to make sure it plays well and doesn’t have hidden problems.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on a beginner electric guitar package?
A: Beginner guitar packages, which often include an amp and accessories, can range from $150 to $300. Good quality individual guitars might start around $100-$200.
Q: What’s the difference between single-coil and humbucker pickups?
A: Single-coil pickups tend to have a brighter, clearer sound. Humbuckers are usually fatter sounding and produce less hum or buzz. For beginners, either can be fine, but humbuckers are often found on guitars suited for rock music.
Q: How often should my child practice?
A: Even 15-20 minutes of practice a few times a week can make a big difference. Consistency is more important than long, infrequent sessions.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.