Are you looking to buy an acoustic guitar for your child? It’s hard to know where to start, as the choices can be overwhelming.
There are so many questions, like what size is best, what type of strings, and how much you should spend.
But don’t worry, as we’ve put together this post to help make it easier to know what you need. In the buyer’s guide section, you will find a list of important features to look for when buying an acoustic guitar for kids.
After that, we review what we think are the eight best acoustic guitars for kids on the market in 2024 so that you can learn about what is out there before making your purchase! Let’s get started.
Quick Answer: The Best Acoustic Guitars For Children
- 1. Loog Pro Acoustic Guitar Guitar
- 2. Yamaha JR1 Acoustic Guitar for Children
- 3. Taylor Taylor Swift Signature Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- 4. Martin LX1 Little Martin Children’s Acoustic Guitar
- 5. Rogue Starter Acoustic Guitar for a Child
- 6. Yamaha APXT2 Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- 7. Luna Aurora Borealis Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- 8. Hohner HAG250P Acoustic Guitar for Kids
How To Choose A Kid’s Acoustic Guitar: A Buyer’s Guide
Before we get to our reviews of different acoustic guitars suitable for children, we’re going to walk you through everything you need to know when selecting an acoustic guitar for children.
We’ll discuss things like finding out what size and type of strings and the different price points are before you make your purchase!
How old Should a child be when they Learn to Play the Guitar?
Before we look at the different factors and important features, it’s worth talking about whether your child is ready to start playing guitar.
Knowing when to start your child on the guitar can be a difficult task for any parent as the answer is different depending on a number of different factors.
Things like their personality, motor skill level, what type of learner they might be (visual or auditory), how big their hands are and if they can reach the fretboard comfortably all affect when you might want to start your child on the guitar.
While there are always exceptions of child prodigies who start when they’re 2 years old, realistically, the youngest age that someone should really be learning is about six years old.
Again, this isn’t a hard and fast rule as you could start your child younger than this, but they may need more help with coordination.
Types of Acoustic Guitars Suitable For Kids
The first decision when it comes to which acoustic guitar to buy is whether you want to get them an acoustic steel-string guitar or classical nylon string guitar.
Although they might look very similar, their differences are quite large, and it will affect a lot of your child’s learning experience.
Classical Guitars
Classical guitars are a very good option for kids as a first guitar for several reasons.
The first is their strings which are nylon instead of metal. This is a much easier material to use when first learning and can help you avoid some issues with calluses on your fingers if the strings are too hard for young hands.
Then you have the size of the body of the guitar, which is generally a bit smaller than an acoustic steel-string guitar. This is a good thing when it comes to kids who are younger and will need something easier for their smaller bodies but also have the ability be played by adults without any issues.
Another good reason to start them out on the classical is the spacing between the strings. Classical guitars have wider fretboards which means it is easier for beginners to play notes as they are more spaced out.
Steel String Acoustic Guitar
Despite classical guitars generally being more suitable, it doesn’t mean they have to start out on them.
Steel-string acoustic guitars are also very popular, especially with slightly older kids, as you’re probably going to be playing more chords and learning songs as opposed to the fingerpicking style of classical guitars.
They do tend to be bigger, so make sure to not get a full-size one as they will struggle to hold it if they’re smaller.
Guitalele
Another option worth looking at is the Guitaleles. These are a good option for kids or anyone who want to learn how the strings and chords work without having such an intimidating instrument in front of them, as it is a lot much smaller than standard guitars.
Unlike ukeleles which have four strings, guitaleles have six strings and are also tuned like guitars instead of ukeleles. They usually have nylon strings too, so are essentially a 1/4 size classical guitar making them a good option for really young kids.
What Size Guitar Is Best For Kids?
Size is another important consideration when it comes to getting a guitar for your child. Most guitars are big and bulky, meaning that they may not be comfortable carrying them around or playing the instrument if their fingers can’t reach the notes.
Guitars come in a few different sizes, which are: 1/4 size, 1/2 size, 3/4 size, and full size.
- For a small child, 3 to 6 years old, a 1/2 size guitar with a scale length of 20.5 inches is ideal
- For a medium-sized child, 7 to 12 years old, a 3/4 size guitar with a scale length of 22.75 inches is ideal
- For a big kid or teenager, 13 years or older, a full-size guitar with a scale length of 24.75 inches or 25.5 inches is ideal
You want to make ensure that their arm and shoulder fit comfortably around the body of the guitar. They should also be able to reach the end of the neck with their opposite hand.
Budget
As with everything in life, a big factor that affects which one you buy is the cost, and that, of course, includes acoustic guitars. It’s always worth looking at options if a few different price ranges to see what extra features you get when spending a little more.
Thankfully acoustic guitars for kids won’t set you back too much, and most, if not all, the guitars on our list are under $500.
We’d recommend spending at least a couple of hundred and trying to avoid the sub $100 guitars as these won’t last very long and don’t tend to be good quality.
Even if you don’t think your child will stick with the guitar, you’ll be able to sell on a good quality guitar and get a good chunk of your money back, but that’s a lot more unlikely with the budget models.
Best Acoustic Guitars for Children Reviews
Now that we’ve covered some of the important things you should be looking for and hopefully answered some of your questions, it’s time to look at some guitars. Here are our favorite acoustic guitars for children.
1. Loog Pro IV Acoustic Kid’s Guitar
- The perfect acoustic guitar for children ages 8+.
- Award-wining 3-string design allows for an easier and faster learning process. With the Loog Pro Acoustic guitar, kids can play music on day one,...
- Approved by educators: Learn on a Loog, play any guitar.
First, we have the Loog Pro Acoustic Guitar, which is the absolute most fun and easy guitar you can get for your kid. It’s recommended for ages 8 and up, but it’s a great starter guitar for toddlers as well.
That’s because it’s small, lightweight, and compact, plus it only has three strings. This allows them to get used to the movement of strumming and pressing down on the fretboard without overcomplicating things with big bulky guitars or hard-to-play strings.
Check out this video to get a better idea of what we mean.
Along with the Loog App and the Loog Flashcards that come with it, it will boost your child’s sense of accomplishment and bring forward their creative side.
All in all, a highly recommended first guitar for any child from a great brand.
2. Yamaha JR1 Acoustic Guitar for Children
No products found.
Next up, we have the Yamaha JR1, which was designed specifically for kids who are learning to play the guitar. It’s a 3/4-scale acoustic with the same dreadnought shape, just smaller.
This model has a spruce top and meranti back and sides, and because the top is laminated, it doesn’t require as much upkeep as a solid top guitar would. Ideal for kids!
A nato neck and rosewood bridge complete the design of this durable, fully-functional guitar.
Considering its size, the JR1 produces a surprisingly high level of volume. You will notice warm lows and fantastic dynamic responses. While it can’t compete with a full-sized guitar, the Yamaha JR1 is the perfect 3/4-scale guitar for kids or beginner guitarists.
3. Taylor Taylor Swift Signature Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- Body Body type: Dreadnought 3/4th-Scale Cutaway: No Top wood: Solid Sitka Spruce Back & sides: Layered Sapele Bracing pattern: Taylor Standard Baby...
- Conceived as a starter guitar for kids, the lovable Baby Taylor has maintained its enduring appeal in part by being a legitimate musical instrument...
- With a slim 1-11/16" neck and a compact shape, the guitar is just right for a young player's hands and anyone who likes to pick up and play on the go
Anyone who knows anything about music should recognize the name, Taylor Swift. The famous singer not only put her name to a guitar but influenced the design of one: the Taylor Swift Signature, also known as the Baby Taylor. Taylor has used this exact model from songwriting since she was 16 years old.
The Taylor Swift Signature has a smaller scale that makes it a great travel guitar as well as one that is the perfect size for children.
The Baby Taylor features an X-braced solid Sitka spruce top with laminated dark sapele back and sides. The top includes artwork that reads ‘Love, Love, Love’ around the soundhole, as well as Taylor’s signature right above the bridge.
Because the Baby Taylor is a compact guitar, it won’t impress you in terms of volume, but its voice is surprisingly good. The construction results in a well-balanced sound with a warm, rustic tone. This guitar may not be the best choice for kids with no experience who are experimenting with guitars, but it’s a great option for young, inspired guitarists.
4. Martin LX1 Little Martin Children’s Acoustic Guitar
- Mahogany pattern HPL (high pressure laminate) textured finish, solid sitka spruce top
- Rust Stratabond neck, shortened 3/4 scale
- Chrome small-knob tuners. Tusq saddle.
The LX1 Little Martin is one of the most popular acoustic guitars for children who want to develop their skills. This model is one of the best small acoustics available today regarding sound, quality, and construction. And it’s surprisingly affordable for an authentic Martin made in Mexico.
The LX1 Little Martin is the smallest guitar Martin makes. The non-cutaway concert body features a solid Sitka spruce top and high-pressure laminate (HPL) mahogany back and sides. The neck is made with rust birch laminate, adding a bit of flair to the aesthetic while making the guitar more comfortable to play.
In terms of sound, the LX1 Little Martin is well-balanced, warm, and appropriate for its size. This model is perfect for small hands or traveling guitarists who want a compact guitar to take on the go.
5. Rogue Starter Acoustic Guitar for a Child
- Smaller body style ideal for kids
- 7/8 scale
- Maple neck
For $60, most people wouldn’t expect much from an acoustic guitar. But the Rogue Starter has done a pretty great job at going above and beyond expectations. At its core, the Rogue Starter is a beautiful, playable guitar perfect for kids.
The sunburst finish is aesthetically pleasing, and the maple neck allows for comfortable, easy play. Surprisingly, for such a reasonably priced guitar, the Rogue Starter boasts surprisingly good sound quality.
The Rogue Starter is arguably one of the top budget options out there, especially for amateur guitarists.
6. Yamaha APXT2 Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- Spruce Top
- Rosewood Fingerboard & Bridge
- System 68 Pick-Up
The APXT2 is the smaller-scaled version of Yamaha’s best-selling electro-acoustic guitar: the APX500II. The APXT2 is continuously recognized as one of the best acoustic guitars for players with small hands.
The smaller size of the APXT2 makes it particularly comfortable in the hands of young guitarists. But even more experienced players will appreciate the bright, natural sound and volume.
7. Luna Aurora Borealis Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- Body: Basswood
- Top: Basswood
- Pearloid Knobs
The compact Aurora Borealis by Luna was designed with children in mind and the dramatic aesthetics successfully grab the attention of wide-eyed youngsters from the get-go.
Regardless of the finish you choose, Pink Perl, Teal Sparkle, White Sparkle, or Black Pearl, you’ll easily be able to notice the glitter incorporated into each one. The unique design is made even more attractive with noticeable moon-themed features, including moon phase fret markers and a moon shape around the soundhole.
But you shouldn’t consider the Aurora Borealis as an acoustic guitar for your child just because of how it looks. You should also take into consideration that it produces a sound that is clear and bright but not too tinny.
This durable yet conveniently-sized acoustic guitar is perfect for a child who is eager to become the next great guitarist.
8. Hohner HAG250P Acoustic Guitar for Kids
- Sturdy Build Quaility
- Easy Playablity with Nylon Strings
- 1/2 Sized Classical Guitar
The Hohner HAG250P is considered 1/2 sized, making it ideal for kids. This smaller acoustic guitar is one of the most popular classical guitars for children between the ages of five and eight, and parents especially fancy the price.
The HAG250P’s nylon strings are ideal for beginner’s fingers. Despite being mass-produced, this acoustic is sturdy yet light. The projection and tone are clear and suitable for beginners. For such a low price, the Hohner HAG250P is a great acoustic guitar for children who want to learn how to play.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Go For?
That’s it for our guide to buying an acoustic guitar for kids, we hope you found it helpful.
Just remember to get something that’s not too big for them and that they can sit with comfortably.
But more important than anything is practice. Make sure they practice!
If you’re still on the fence about which acoustic guitar to go for, it really is a no-brainer. The Loog Pro Acoustic Guitar for kids is miles better than the competition.
The high-quality build, great sound, lightweight, good looking, and of course, affordable price all make it a really good option, and on that, every child, no matter their age, will love playing.
For more information and the best price, click the link below.
