Best
Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
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Overall: Has a strong, high-pressure laminate build
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Best Feature: Built with a mahogany body for an iconic tone with a professional edge
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Jumbo Acoustic Guitar
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Overall: Expect rumbles of dreadnought richness with a Traditional Western body
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Best Feature: The ultimate blend of affordability, brilliant tone, and a fantastic feel
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Mini Acoustic Guitar
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Overall: Crafted with a tropical mahogany top and a sapele laminate body
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Best Feature: Includes a durable, reliable Taylor gig bag
-
TedScore™: 8.5/10
Feeling lost and overwhelmed with all the different acoustic guitar sizes? **Fear not!** Dive into the world of guitar shapes and sizes to see how they can **make or break** your playing experience. Explore the maze of options and find the **perfect fit** for your musical journey.
Picture this: you’re strolling down the guitar aisle, and your eyes widen as you gaze upon the dazzling array of acoustic guitars. From the petite and portable travel guitars to the grand and majestic dreadnoughts, there’s a guitar for every taste and style.
But which one is right for you?
That’s where we come in!
It’s time to discover why acoustic guitar dimensions matter…
What are Acoustic Guitars?
This beloved instrument has been a staple in music for centuries, with its warm, natural tone and endless possibilities for expression. Acoustic guitars have two options for strings, either steel strings or nylon strings.
If you have a classical guitar, it’ll have nylon strings. There is a common misconception that an acoustic and classical guitar are the same; they’re not! So if you’re looking for more info on classical guitars, take a look at our dedicated article, ‘Buying A Classical Guitar‘.
Lastly, as this is an article about acoustic guitars, we don’t discuss the Electric Guitar or Acoustic Electric instruments. If you’re looking for more info on Electric Guitars, read our dedicated article ‘14 Electric Guitar Kits For Beginners‘.
Why Do Acoustic Guitars Have Different Sizes?
Many wondered, “What size guitar should I get?”
The guitar size you should get depends on age, body size, and playing preferences. For younger players or those with smaller frames, a 3/4 size parlor guitar may be more comfortable to handle. Adults and larger individuals may find a full-size guitar more suitable, but it ultimately comes down to personal comfort and playability, so it’s essential to try different sizes to determine what feels right for you.
Different sizes of acoustic guitar dimensions can produce different tones and volumes and affect the guitar’s playability for different players. The acoustic guitar size chart provides a helpful reference for determining the most suitable guitar size based on the player’s age, height, and body type, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience.
I remember the first time I played a smaller-bodied acoustic guitar and was amazed by how comfortable it felt in my hands. The intimate sound it produced was perfect for close, personal performances, and it really inspired me to explore a different style of playing.
The Four Main Acoustic Guitar Sizes
This acoustic guitar size guide will help you choose the right size instrument for their needs. Factors like body shape, scale length, and overall dimensions are crucial for comfortable playing.
Let’s take a look at the four main sizes for acoustic guitars.
Dreadnought
The dreadnought is the most popular acoustic guitar size. It has a large body and a deep sound, making it ideal for strumming and flat-picking. The Dreadnought guitar is also known for its volume and projection, making it a great choice for live performances.
The Martin D-X1E dreadnought size acoustic guitar stands out for its robust construction and rich, resonant tone. Its high-pressure laminate (HPL) back and sides provide durability and resilience to changes in temperature and humidity, making it a great choice for musicians on the go.
While it may come with a higher price tag compared to some entry-level acoustic guitars, its exceptional sound quality, reliable performance, and renowned Martin craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment for guitarists seeking a high-quality instrument that will endure over time.
When I play the Martin D-X1E, it feels really comfortable and substantial, and the larger body gives a satisfying and resonant playing experience.
Martin D-X1E Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: gigging musicians
FEATURES: Boasta a Fishman MX electronics for a beautiful and powerful live sound quality
OTHER INFO: Built with a mahogany body for an iconic tone with a professional edge
Martin D-X1E Acoustic Guitar
- Has a strong, high-pressure laminate build
- Ideal road-ready guitar that gives unparalleled sound and playability
- Delivers high-quality sonic to your audiences and has a professional studio-ready sound
- The laminate (HPL) construction may not appeal to players who prefer the sound and feel of traditional solid wood guitars
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: beginner and intermediate players
FEATURES: Offers strong, powerful resonance from quality tonewoods
OTHER INFO: With Nato neck for smooth playing
Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar
- Has a scalloped X bracing for exceptional projection and stability
- Superbly comfortable and easy to play
- Boasts Yamaha's playability and exceptional performance
- Its high action may not be suitable for players who prefer a lower action for easier playing
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Concert Guitar
The Concert is slightly smaller than the Dreadnought, making it a great choice for players with smaller hands. It has a balanced tone and is perfect for fingerstyle playing. The Concert is also known for its dynamic range, clarity, and responsiveness, making it a great choice for recording.
Fender CC-60SCE Concert Electro Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: any style or genre
FEATURES: Offers sharpness and precision courtesy of a solid spruce top
OTHER INFO: Made with the optimum blend of tonewoods for the perfect tonal range
Fender CC-60SCE Concert Electro Acoustic Guitar
- Magnificent amplified sound with high clarity Fishman Isys III pickup
- Communicate your high-end notes with crispness and definition
- Perfect for improving skills while enjoying the immense sound quality
- One of the most playable guitars
- Some players claim that the built-in electronics are of lower quality compared to external pickups or preamps
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Martin 000-15M Solid Mahogany Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: players who prioritize a warm, rich, and balanced sound tone
FEATURES: Deliver a rich, crystal clear tone with a glorious auditorium size
OTHER INFO: Wondrous resonance and warmth projected by a solid mahogany construction
Martin 000-15M Solid Mahogany Acoustic Guitar
- Perform any technique effortlessly with the smooth, low oval neck
- With deep, elegant curves which accommodate a comfortable playing
- Comes with a secure and sturdy hardshell case
- A relatively expensive instrument, which may not be affordable for all players
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Grand Auditorium
The Grand Auditorium is a versatile guitar size that can be used for various playing styles. It has a balanced tone and is perfect for strumming and fingerstyle playing. The Grand Auditorium is also known for its comfort, making it a great choice for extended playing sessions.
Taylor 214ce-DLX Grand Auditorium Electro Acoustic
DESIGNED FOR: amateur and professional guitarists alike
FEATURES: Has solid Sitka spruce top brings immersive dynamics
OTHER INFO: With a layered body to prevent warping damage
Taylor 214ce-DLX Grand Auditorium Electro Acoustic
- Has ES2 electronics with a break-through design to capture the natural acoustic tone
- Designed with a smooth satin finish and slim, modern neck profile
- Provides an effortless, unforgettable feel
- Offers endless versatility and lets you play your way
- The sapele neck may not be to everyone's taste and may affect the feel of the guitar
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Martin GPC-16E w/ Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2
DESIGNED FOR: students and working musicians
FEATURES: Boasts unrivalled acoustic projection, retaining its well-balanced, warm sound quality
OTHER INFO: Has a solid spruce top and mahogany for a bright harmonic resonance
Martin GPC-16E w/ Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2
- With an ebony fretboard that resonates with sweet sustain
- Plug in and play with enhanced Fishman electronics
- Played by the biggest names in music - from Bob Dylan to Lewis Capaldi
- Higher price range compared to other brands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Parlor Guitars
Parlor guitars are the smallest acoustic guitar size. They have a compact body and a bright, focused sound. They’re perfect for fingerstyle playing and are great for players who want a guitar that’s easy to travel with.
Yamaha CSF-TA TransAcoustic Parlor
DESIGNED FOR: players who prefer the portability of a travel guitar
FEATURES: With a solid top for a beautifully dynamic sound that only gets better with age
OTHER INFO: Creates a rich, warm, and resonant tone with a versatile response
Yamaha CSF-TA TransAcoustic Parlor
- Offers a captivating tone with smooth, comfortable playability
- With a stunning reverb room/hall and chorus effects
- Combines a compact, comfortable parlour body and a solid top with revolutionary electronics
- Associated among players as the 'classic' acoustic sound
- Doesn't offer quite as much depth and resonance as larger guitars
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Classical Guitars
As we said above, we have dedicated articles for classical guitars, but we thought it would be wrong not to mention this amazing model:
Cordoba C10 Luthier Series Classical Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: intermediate players and professional guitarists
FEATURES: Built with a Canadian cedar top with Indian rosewood back and sides
OTHER INFO: Creates beautifully rich sounds that flow exquisitely with amazing clarity
Cordoba C10 Luthier Series Classical Guitar
- With luscious ebony fretboard and mahogany neck for effortless fretting
- A traditional classical build which allows for a sublime, authentic playing experience
- With an exquisite design that stays true to Spanish style guitar
- May not be as loud as some players would like
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Other Acoustic Guitar Sizes
If you’re looking for something different, there are a few other acoustic guitar sizes to consider. Here are some of the most popular:
Jumbo
Jumbo guitars are the largest acoustic guitar sizes, with a deep body and a big, booming sound. A jumbo guitar is great for players who want a lot of volume and projection, and they’re often used in country, bluegrass, and folk music.
Yamaha FG830 Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: new, intermediate, and pro players on a budget
FEATURES: Expect rumbles of dreadnought richness with a Traditional Western body
OTHER INFO: Solid spruce top for incredible versatility and sound that blossoms with age
Yamaha FG830 Acoustic Guitar
- The ultimate blend of affordability, brilliant tone, and a fantastic feel
- Ideal for a multitude of genres
- A combination of acoustic class and exceptional value
- With a dynamic character that gets even better the more you play
- The nut and saddle are made of not high materials, which can affect the overall sound quality
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Travel/Miniature
If you’re looking for a guitar that’s easy to take on the go, a travel or miniature guitar might be just what you need. These mini guitars are smaller than standard models, making them easier to carry around but still producing a decent and powerful sound.
Taylor GS Mini Mahogany Acoustic Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: guitar players always on the go
FEATURES: Crafted with a tropical mahogany top and a sapele laminate body
OTHER INFO: Produces a classy, resonant tone that blossoms with richness the more you play
Taylor GS Mini Mahogany Acoustic Guitar
- With an incredible climate-resilient design comes packed with strength and reliability
- Includes a durable, reliable Taylor gig bag
- Has a compact design to unleash your creativity anywhere
- May lack volume due to its smaller body size
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tenor
Tenor guitars are a bit of an oddity, but they’re gaining in popularity. They have four strings instead of six, and they’re tuned to a higher pitch than a standard guitar. They’re often used in jazz and folk music and are great for players experimenting with different tunings.
Ozark Tenor Guitar
DESIGNED FOR: folk players
FEATURES: Explore a crystal-clear tenor tone courtesy of a solid cedar top and rosewood body
OTHER INFO: Has seamless playability offered by a smooth mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard
Ozark Tenor Guitar
- Ideal for banjo players wanting to delve into an acoustic guitar sound
- Beautifully classic in looks, demonstrating Ozark's superb quality
- Showcases a truly authentic aesthetic with gorgeous simplicity and satin finish
- Adjusting the nut can be tricky, and mistakes can cause problems
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Guitar Size
Body Size and Shape
The physical size and shape of the guitar’s body will affect the overall sound and volume. Larger bodies tend to have fuller sounds and higher volume, while smaller bodies are more comfortable to a play and have brighter sounds. The most common guitar body shapes are Dreadnought, Concert Guitars, and Grand Auditorium.
Playing Style
Your playing style will also affect the size of the guitar you choose. If you play fingerstyle, a smaller body guitar may be more suitable, while a larger body guitar may be better if you strum a lot.
Tonality and Volume
The tonality and volume of the guitar will also depend on its size. A larger-body guitar will produce more bass response and a deeper, resonant sound, while a small-body one will produce more volume and a brighter, more focused sound.
Comfort and Playability
The comfort and playability of the guitar are also important considerations. A smaller, thinner-body guitar may be more comfortable for smaller people or those with shorter arms, while a larger-body guitar may be more comfortable for those with longer arms or larger hands.
Scale Length
The guitar’s scale length refers to the distance between the nut and the bridge. A longer scale length will produce a brighter, more focused sound, while a shorter one will produce a warmer, more mellow sound.
Neck Width
The width of the guitar’s neck will affect your comfort and playability. A wider, longer neck, may be more comfortable for those with larger hands, while on smaller body guitars, a narrower neck may be more comfortable for those with smaller hands.
String Spacing
The spacing between the strings will also affect your comfort and playability. A wider string spacing may be more comfortable for fingerstyle playing, while a narrower one may be more comfortable for strong strumming style.
Tips for Determining the Right Acoustic Guitar Size for You
Finding the right size that fits your body and playing style is important when choosing an acoustic guitar. Here are some tips to help you determine the right acoustic guitar size for you:
1. Consider your body size and shape.
The guitar size should be proportional to your body size and body shape. If you have a smaller body frame, a smaller guitar, like a parlor or travel size, may be more comfortable for you to play. A larger guitar, like a dreadnought or jumbo concert size, may be better if you’re taller or have a larger frame.
2. Think about your playing style.
Your playing style can also affect the size of the guitar you choose. If you have a fingerpicking style, a smaller guitar with a shorter scale length may be easier to play. If you prefer strumming, a larger guitar with a wider soundboard may produce a fuller sound.
3. Try out different body styles and sizes.
The best way to determine the right acoustic guitar size is to try different sizes and see which one feels the most comfortable and which guitar sounds the best. You can visit a local music store and try different sizes to find the perfect fit.
4. Consider the scale of body length.
The scale length is the distance between the nut and the guitar’s bridge. A longer scale length can make it easier to play higher notes, while a shorter scale length can make it easier to play chords.
5. Avoid toy guitars.
While toy guitars may be tempting due to their low price, they’re not built to last and may not provide a good playing experience. Invest in a quality acoustic guitar that fits your body and style to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience.
Acoustic Guitar Sizes
Summary
Acoustic guitars come in various shapes and sizes, each offering a unique playing experience. Finding the right size guitar for your playing style and needs is essential to getting the most out of your playing experience.
Take the time to research and try out different sizes to find the one that feels and sounds the best for you. And don’t forget to share your music with the world and inspire others to pick up a guitar and join the fun.
Happy strumming!
This is a well-structured guide, Lewis. The breakdown of guitar sizes along with the factors to consider when choosing makes it an excellent resource for my students. I’ve seen many beginners struggle with discomfort because they chose a guitar size that wasn’t right for their needs. I’ll be sure to share this with them. Keep up the great work!
Parlor guitars, so do I get tea with that? Lol just kidding, but seriously, never knew guitars had so many sizes.
I’ve always appreciated the distinct tonality different sized acoustic guitars offer. It’s fascinating how much the body size and shape influence the sound and playability.
True that! It’s all about finding the right fit for your style.
Hey Lewis Turner, cool article. Just wondering, for beginners, would you say a smaller size guitar like the Concert or Parlor is easier to start with or does it not really matter much?