Hey there, future guitar hero! So, you’ve decided to pick up the guitar—awesome choice! Whether you’re dreaming of shredding like Hendrix or strumming along to your favorite songs, the first step is buying your very own guitar. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Don’t worry—I’ve got your back. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the right guitar, avoid common beginner mistakes, and understand the key features that will help you make the best choice.

1. Acoustic vs. Electric: Which One Is Right for You?

The first big decision you’ll need to make is whether to go with an acoustic or electric guitar. Both have their pros and cons, so let’s break it down:

Acoustic Guitar:

The acoustic guitar is probably what comes to mind when you think of a classic guitar. It’s the one with a hollow wooden body and a big hole in the middle—called the soundhole. When you strum or pluck the strings, the sound resonates naturally through the body, giving you that warm, earthy tone. You don’t need any extra gear to play it, so it’s perfect for campfires, small gatherings, or just practicing at home. If you’re into folk, classical, or even pop, this is a great starting point.

• Pros:
  • No need for extra gear (amps, cables, etc.).
  • Portable and easy to play anywhere.
  • Great for learning basics and building finger strength.
• Cons:
  • Higher action (string height) can be tougher on beginners.
  • Limited sound versatility compared to electric guitars.

Electric Guitar:

The electric guitar, on the other hand, is like the modern, rockstar cousin of the acoustic. Unlike acoustic guitars, which typically have a hollow body to amplify the sound acoustically, electric guitars rely on pickups and an amplifier to produce sound. This allows you to experiment with a variety of tones, ranging from clean and smooth to loud and gritty. Plus, you can add cool effects like distortion and delay to spice things up. It’s super versatile and works great for rock, blues, metal, or really anything if you’re up for experimenting.

• Pros:
  • Easier to play for beginners due to lower action and lighter strings.
  • Wide range of sounds and effects.
  • Ideal for rock, blues, metal, and more.
• Cons:
  • Requires additional gear (amp, cables).
  • Less portable and more setup needed.

Tip: If you’re unsure, think about the music you love. If you’re drawn to rock, metal, or anything that involves distortion, an electric guitar might be your best bet. If you’re into singer-songwriter vibes, folk, or country, an acoustic might be more your style.

2. Set a Realistic Budget: Don’t Overspend

As a beginner, you don’t need to break the bank on your first guitar. There are plenty of quality instruments out there that won’t drain your savings. Here’s how to approach your budget:

• Entry-Level Acoustic Guitars: $100 – $300
• Entry-Level Electric Guitars: $150 – $400 (plus the cost of an amp)

Tip: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that quality matters. A well-made guitar will be easier to play, sound better, and make learning more enjoyable. Consider spending a little more on a guitar from a reputable brand to ensure you’re getting a reliable instrument. Brands such as Yamaha, Ibanez, Jackson, Squier or Epiphone have great entry level options around $250.

3. Understanding Key Features: What to Look For

When you’re buying your first guitar, there are a few key features you should pay attention to. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

1. Body Style:
For acoustics, body style affects the guitar’s tone and playability. Dreadnoughts offer a full sound, while smaller concert or parlor sizes are easier to handle. For electrics, consider the shape and weight—some designs, like the Stratocaster, are more comfortable for beginners.

2. Neck and Fingerboard:
Check the neck profile (the shape of the neck) and fingerboard radius (the curvature of the fingerboard). Thinner necks are generally easier for beginners to grip, and a flatter fingerboard can make it easier to press down on the strings.

3. Action:
The action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Lower action is easier to play, but too low can cause buzzing. Most entry-level guitars come with decent action, but it’s something to check before you buy.

4. Tonewoods:
The wood used in a guitar affects its sound. Common tonewoods for acoustics include spruce (bright and clear) and mahogany (warm and rich). For electrics, the body wood can influence sustain and tone, with alder and mahogany being popular choices.

5. Electronics (for Electrics):
If you’re going electric, pay attention to the pickups (single-coil vs. humbucker) as they significantly affect the guitar’s sound. Single-coils are bright and clear, while humbuckers offer a thicker, more powerful tone.

4. Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

When buying your first guitar, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

1. Going Too Cheap:
It’s tempting to buy the cheapest guitar you can find, but ultra-cheap guitars are often poorly made, hard to play, and can make learning more difficult and frustrating. It’s worth investing in a decent entry-level guitar.

2. Ignoring Comfort:
Choose a guitar that feels comfortable to hold and play—it’s more important than how it looks. If it doesn’t feel right, you might find it hard to enjoy practicing and could lose motivation. Bring along an experienced friend to help you evaluate the guitar you’re considering. If something feels off or awkward, don’t hesitate to try other options until you find the one that fits you perfectly.

3. Overlooking Setup:
Even a great guitar can be tough to play if it’s not set up properly. Make sure the action is comfortable, the neck is straight, and the intonation is correct. If you’re buying from a store, ask them to check the setup for you.

4. Not Trying Before Buying:
Always try a guitar before you buy it, if possible. Even if you’re buying online, see if you can try the same model in a local store to get a feel for it. If you’re buying online, make sure the retailer has a good return policy in case the guitar doesn’t meet your expectations.

5. Where to Buy: Online vs. In-Store

I’ve already covered that in detail on my blog, so be sure to check out my complete guide here. And also you can check my article abot pros and cons of buying a guitar on credit.

Conclusion: Take Your Time and Enjoy the Process

Buying your first guitar is a big step, so take your time and don’t rush into it. It’s important to find an instrument that feels comfortable and sounds great, but also one that inspires you visually. A guitar that catches your eye will motivate you to play more and keep you excited to learn, which is crucial in those early stages. Keep your budget in mind, but prioritize comfort and sound quality. With the right guitar, your musical journey will be both enjoyable and rewarding. Happy guitar hunting, and welcome to the world of music!

Bonus Track: With a Little Help from My Friends

As I mentioned before, but it’s worth repeating: if you have a friend who already plays guitar, don’t hesitate to ask for their help when choosing your first instrument. Their experience can be incredibly valuable—they can help you test different models, point out any potential issues, and offer advice you might miss as a beginner. Having someone by your side who knows their way around a guitar will also boost your confidence in making the right decision. So reach out to your guitar-playing friend—they’ll likely be happy to lend a hand!