Best Acoustic
Guitar
For Sound
Acoustic Guitar
-
Overall: Spruce top and walnut fretboard for
a sublime, bright tone -
Best Feature: Boasts classic aesthetics with
many hidden modern elements -
TedScore™: 9/10
Best Acoustic
Guitar
On a Budget
-
Overall: The FA-235E Concert offers a warm and rich tone that complements various playing styles
-
Best Feature: laminated body provides great resonance and sound qualit
-
TedScore™: 10/10
Best Acoustic
Guitar
For
Tonal Range
-
Overall: Tonal versatility offers a wide range styles
-
Best Feature: AD60's grand auditorium body shape ensures comfort and playability
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Looking for the best budget acoustic guitar that keeps your wallet smiling without cutting corners on quality? You’re in the right spot!
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player wanting an affordable addition to your collection, there’s something for you here.
I’ll guide you through some top-value acoustic guitars worth every penny in this article. From the Yamaha FG800 to the Fender FA-235E, you’ll discover options that deliver superb sound and playability on a budget.
Ready to find your perfect match? Stick around, and let’s explore these gems together!
Top 5 Budget Acoustic Guitars
The acoustic guitar world is filled with various instruments catering to every budget and playing style. With so many options available, finding the perfect cheap acoustic guitar for your needs can be challenging.
That’s where I come in!
I’ve researched and compiled a list of the top 5 budget acoustic guitars that provide exceptional value and performance.
These budget-friendly acoustic guitars offer a fantastic balance of sound quality, playability, and affordability, making them the ideal choice for beginners and experienced guitarists.
So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of budget acoustic guitars and discover the gems that await you!
Yamaha FG800
The Yamaha FG800 is a crowd-favourite among those seeking an affordable, high-quality acoustic guitar. Boasting a solid Spruce top and Nato back and sides, this instrument offers excellent playability and sound quality that rivals many more expensive guitars. Its bright and resonant tone suits various genres, from blues to country.
One of the reasons the Yamaha FG800 is so popular is its beginner-friendly price point and gig-bag inclusion. This great guitar really is an excellent choice for those just starting or working with a guitar teacher on a tight budget.
The FG800 proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to obtain a great-sounding and reliable acoustic guitar.
PERFECT FOR: beginners to professional players
FEATURES: Has a spruce top and walnut fretboard for a sublime, bright tone
OTHER INFO: With redesigned scalloped X bracing that enriches the low to mid-range
Yamaha FGX800C Electro Acoustic Guitar
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Projects a balanced, resonant tone
- Can be used for a variety of playing styles
- Boasts classic aesthetics with many hidden modern elements
- With a plastic nut and saddle
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™.
Fender FA-235E Concert
The Fender FA-235E Concert is the best cheap acoustic guitar and a budget-friendly option for live performances, featuring a comfortable concert-sized body and Fishman electronics.
This dreadnought body guitar has a laminate spruce top, meranti back and sides, and a Fishman Isys III pickup system, making it perfect for those who want their first acoustic guitar to plug in and play on stage.
The FA-235E Concert offers a warm and rich tone that complements various playing styles. Its slim “C” profile and slim neck also provide excellent playability, making it a popular choice for guitarists of all skill levels.
Priced at less than $/£350, the Fender FA-235E Concert is a fantastic option for those looking for an acoustic guitar with built-in electronics without breaking the bank.
PERFECT FOR: beginners and professionals
FEATURES: The laminated body provides great resonance and sound quality with the added advantage of longevity, mite protection and weather protection.
OTHER INFO: The guitar comes with a gig bag with extra Fender strings, 3 pickups, guitar strap and a tutorial DVD.
Fender FA-235E Concert
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Startup gig for beginners
- Fishman electronic pickup and volume control
- Classic whole body for the concert feel
- Durable carry bag
- Can be a bit harder to carry for beginners
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™.
Epiphone DR-100
Epiphone is known for producing high-quality, affordable guitars, and the DR-100 is no exception.
This classic design combines modern and traditional acoustic guitar elements. It features a solid Sitka Spruce top and mahogany back and sides, offering a well-balanced and full-bodied sound that will please any guitarist. Its rosewood fingerboard and slim taper maple neck also make it comfortable and easy to play, even for extended periods.
The Epiphone DR-100 is an incredible value and an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players, offering a cheap acoustic budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
With many guitar features, the DR-100 is one of the best acoustic guitars under 500 that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a great-sounding and playable acoustic guitar.
PERFECT FOR: beginners
FEATURES: Square shoulder dreadnought
OTHER INFO: Responsive to your individuality, versatile and perfect for a multitude of techniques
Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar, Natural
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Sleek, smooth, easy-playing neck and slimmer body for a fast-paced, unrestricted feel
- An all-round guitar, blending traditional and modern design elements
- Affordable and loaded with world-renowned Epiphone quality
- The guitar's strings may be too high off the fretboard
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™.
Alvarez Artist Series AD60
The Alvarez Artist Series AD60 is a budget-conscious dreadnought guitar that offers a solid A+ Sitka spruce top, providing an impressive tonal range. Its mahogany back and sides contribute to a warm and balanced sound that suits various playing styles.
The AD60’s grand auditorium body shape ensures comfort and playability, making it an excellent choice for guitarists of all levels.
One of the standout features of the AD60 is its thinner profile than other guitars, which offers accessibility in terms of price, build quality and playability. The clear and well-balanced sound it produces is ideal for those looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic guitar that doesn’t compromise on quality.
COMES WITH: a protective gig bag for convenient transportation and storage
FEATURES: solid Sitka spruce top contributes to its exceptional resonance and tonal clarity
Alvarez Artist Series AD60
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- An instrument that's well-constructed and reliable
- Tonal versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of playing styles
- Slightly higher price point compared to entry-level acoustic guitars
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™.
Ibanez PF15ECE
Ibanez is renowned for its high-quality instruments, and the PF15ECE is no exception. This acoustic-electric guitar is designed with the beginner in mind, featuring a built-in pickup system and tuner for added convenience. Its laminated spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and rosewood fretboard provide a comfortable playing experience and a well-rounded tone.
The PF15ECE comes with a selection of pickups. These include contact pickups fitted onto the solid top of the bridge, a magnetic pickup between the soundhole and fretboard end, and an under-saddle pickup.
This versatile guitar offers an affordable option for those seeking classic combination of an acoustic-electric instrument that performs well in various settings.
COMES WITH: built-in Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp and tuner provide easy amplification options and precise tuning on stage
FEATURES: protective gig bag for convenient transport and storage
Ibanez PF15ECE Electro Acoustic, Natural
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Onboard preamp and tuner allow seamless transition
- Offers good value for its features
- Slim neck profile and cutaway design contribute to comfortable playability
- Overall build quality and materials might not be as high-end as those of more expensive guitars
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 Buying a Budget Acoustic Guitar
When choosing the best budget acoustic guitar, it’s essential to consider various factors that can impact your playing experience. From body size and shape to the type and quality of wood used in the guitar construction, each aspect can significantly influence the instrument’s sound and feel.
Let’s explore these factors in more detail to help you make an informed decision.
Body Size and Shape
The size and shape of an acoustic guitar’s body can have a considerable influence on the sound and comfort of the instrument.
Larger bodied guitars typically produce a louder sound with more bass response. In comparison, smaller body sizes offer a more balanced tone and are generally more comfortable to play with, especially for those with smaller frames or shorter arms.
Some common body sizes include dreadnought, jumbo, auditorium, classical, and parlor guitars. Each size and shape have its unique tonal characteristics and are favoured by different playing techniques.
For example, flat pickers and strummers often prefer dreadnought and jumbo guitars, while auditorium, classical guitars and salon guitars are popular among fingerstyle players.
When selecting a budget acoustic guitar, you must consider your preferences and playing style to find which best acoustic guitar delivers the right body size and shape for you. Try out several best cheap acoustic guitars in person that can help you determine which one resonates most with your unique needs.
Wood Type and Quality
The type and quality of wood used in an acoustic guitar’s construction play a significant role in determining the guitar’s tone and resonance. Different types of wood have varied sonic characteristics, which can greatly impact the guitar’s sound.
For instance, solid mahogany is appreciated for its mellow, smooth and warm tone throughout, whereas maple yields a brighter, snappier sound. Solid spruce, walnut, and rosewood are also commonly used tone woods in acoustic guitars.
Budget models typically utilize laminated tops, not solid tops constructed of several layers of wood adhered together.
While this may be more consistent and cost-effective, laminated tops will not possess the same tonal quality as solid wood top.
Solid wood tops, on the other hand, offer increased density, resulting in greater resonance when the strings are struck, providing more sustain and a fuller guitar tone.
When selecting a budget acoustic guitar, it’s essential to consider the wood type and quality, as these factors can greatly impact the instrument’s sound, appearance, and feel. While budget models may not always feature solid wood construction, many cheaper acoustic guitars still offer excellent sound, build quality, and playability for their price range.
Electronics and Additional Features
Equipping an acoustic guitar with electronics can offer numerous benefits, especially for those who perform live or record their music. Built-in preamps and pickups can provide a more consistent and natural sound throughout, allowing you to plug the guitar into an amplifier or PA system for increased volume and tonal control.
Some budget acoustic guitars come with built-in electronics, while others offer them as an optional feature.
There are various types of pickups available for acoustic guitars, including piezo pickups, magnetic pickups, and condenser microphones. The type of pickup you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the sound you wish to achieve.
Additionally, some modern acoustic guitars now come with built-in tuners, which can be convenient for those who need to tune their instrument frequently.
When selecting a budget acoustic guitar, it’s essential to consider whether or not you require electronics and additional features, as these can impact the instrument’s price and overall functionality. If you plan on performing live or recording your music, an acoustic guitar with built-in electronics may be a worthwhile investment.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Budget Acoustic Guitars
With so many budget acoustic guitars on the market, finding the best deal can be a daunting task.
However, by employing some strategic shopping techniques, you can increase your chances of securing a fantastic instrument at an unbeatable price.
One effective method is to peruse online retailers such as Amazon, Sweetwater, and Guitar Center, as these websites often offer competitive prices and frequent sales events.
Another tip for finding the best deals on budget acoustic guitars is to consider purchasing a used instrument. Many musicians sell their pre-owned guitars at a fraction of the original cost, allowing you to snag a high-quality instrument at a significantly reduced price.
By watching sales events, exploring online retailers, and considering used instruments, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect budget acoustic guitar at a great price.
Upgrading Your Budget Acoustic Guitar
As your skills and passion for guitar playing grow, you may want to upgrade your budget acoustic guitar to improve its performance and sound quality.
There are several ways to enhance your instrument, such as changing the strings, adding pickups, or improving the setup for better playability.
Replacing the nut, bridge saddle, and bridge pins with higher-quality materials can improve intonation and sustain and enhance overall tone. Additionally, swapping out the existing strings and tuning machines with higher-quality versions can improve the guitar’s tuning stability and tone.
Another option for upgrading your budget acoustic guitar is to have a professional guitar technician provide a setup which can improve the instrument’s playability, smooth tone and overall tone.
By investing in these upgrades, you can breathe new life into your budget acoustic guitar and continue to enjoy its performance as your skills progress.
Best Budget Guitar Acoustic
Summary
In this blog post, I’ve explored the best budget acoustic guitars, delved into the essential factors to consider when purchasing a budget acoustic guitar, and highlighted reputable brands known for producing high-quality, amazing instruments at affordable prices.
With the right knowledge and guidance, finding the perfect budget acoustic guitar is a rewarding and enjoyable journey.
So, armed with this newfound knowledge, embark on your quest for the perfect budget acoustic guitar, and watch your musical dreams come to life!
And before you go – if you’re wondering what accessories to buy, we have a super dedicated article here that’ll help you decide
imagine if guitars were rated like uber rides? this yamaha is a solid 5-stars for not breaking my bank lol. but seriously, does anyone else just buy guitars cause they look pretty next to the couch?
This list is pretty spot on, but let’s not forget the importance of playability out of the box. A beginner might not know how to set up a guitar properly, which can lead to frustration and less playing time. It’s not just about the best budget guitars, but also about how playable they are without needing a setup. In my experience, Ibanez PF15ECE comes ready to play more often than not, making it a great choice for those new to the instrument.
got an alvarez artist series ad60 and its pretty solid. great value for what you pay.
Hey Lewis Turner, I’m kinda stuck between the Yamaha FG800 and the Fender FA-235E. I like the sound of a Yamaha I tried once but that Fender looks so cool. Which one do you think is better for someone who’s just starting out but plans on playing a lot? Is the wood quality on the Fender good enough to last?
TaraLight, both are solid choices! Yamaha’s have a rep for durability, especially for beginners. The Fender’s got a great look and sound. Might depend on the genre you’re aiming to play the most. Folk or rock, Yamaha; something more mellow, might lean towards Fender.