The Best Guitars for Beginners

Pros and Cons of Electric Guitars

As mentioned earlier, electric guitars tend to be easier for beginners due to their lower string action and narrower neck. Here are some additional pros—and a few cons—you should consider. 

+ Sound Variety

As discussed in the disadvantages of acoustic guitars: thanks to amplifiers, effects pedals, pickup combinations, and more, there are countless ways to shape your sound with an electric guitar and your gear.

+ Durability

The solid, solid-body construction of most electric guitars is typically more durable than the relatively thin, hollow body of an acoustic. If your guitar takes a knock—whether in the living room or on stage—electric guitars are usually more impact-resistant and less prone to cracks.

+ Modifiability

Nearly every part of an electric guitar can be swapped or upgraded. Changing the pickups alone can drastically alter the tone, and they’re among the most commonly replaced components.

+ Volume Control

You can crank it up as loud as your neighbors will tolerate. Depending on your amp’s wattage, you can fill a small room, a club, or even a big stage. In any case, you can match your volume to a drummer without issue.

- Required Equipment

Without an amp and effects, the guitar is almost too quiet to play properly. While this adds to the cost, there are affordable starter bundles that include all the basics.

- Portability & Weight

Depending on the size and weight of your amp, guitar, and case, carrying your gear around can be a bit of a hassle—especially when traveling or moving between locations.

Guitar Starter Sets

If you're unsure about picking out the right equipment, you can go for a starter bundle. These usually include everything you need to get going right away.

Starting with a Steel-String or Classical Guitar

An acoustic guitar has a beautiful, natural sound and doesn’t require any additional gear like amps or cables. The difference between electric and acoustic guitars—whether it's a steel-string (western) or classical guitar—is that acoustic strings can cause some finger pain at first. The strings press into your fingertips, but after a while, you'll develop calluses and that issue will disappear. If you start on an acoustic and later switch to electric, you’ll likely find the electric guitar much easier to play. Chord progressions or riffs that once felt difficult may suddenly feel effortless. In that case, you'll benefit even more in the long run.