Just the Right Size: The Best Acoustic Guitar for Small Hands
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best acoustic guitar for small hands for your budget and situation, along with our Top 5 recommendations!
Learning to play the guitar can be an exciting journey, but it can also be daunting, especially when it comes to finding the right instrument. If you have small hands, selecting the best acoustic guitar can seem like a challenge.
However, there are plenty of options available that cater to individuals with smaller hands, which can enhance your playing experience drastically. In this article, we will explore the factors that you should consider when selecting the best acoustic guitar for small hands.
We will also highlight some of the best acoustic guitars for small hands currently on the market. So, let's dive in and find the perfect guitar for you!
Overview of Acoustic Guitars for Small Hands
The history of manufacturers creating acoustic guitars for small hands is an interesting one, as it speaks to the desire to make guitar playing accessible to everyone, regardless of body size. The standard size for a full size guitar can be difficult for individuals with smaller hands to play, which is why manufacturers began to design smaller guitars with shorter scale lengths and thinner necks.
For example, one of the best acoustic guitars for small hands is the LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar. This guitar features a solid Sitka spruce top, which provides excellent sound quality and a balanced tone. The slim neck and shorter scale length make it easy for individuals with small hands to access all of the frets, and the guitar body styles are designed to be more comfortable for smaller players.
There is also the parlor guitar, which is a short scale guitar with a smaller body. It's the perfect acoustic guitar size for beginners or individuals who want a smaller guitar to travel with. The smaller size does not compromise the sound quality, as many parlor guitars also feature a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany neck.
When searching for the best acoustic guitar for small hands, it is important to consider the scale length, neck width, and guitar body size. A shorter scale length and thin neck make it easier to play the guitar, while a smaller body can be more comfortable for small players. The solid Sitka spruce top is also a key feature to look for, as it provides excellent sound quality.
Ultimately, the goal of acoustic guitars for small hands is to make guitar playing accessible to everyone, regardless of body size. By designing guitars with smaller players in mind, manufacturers have been able to create instruments that are easier and more comfortable to play, without compromising sound quality or guitar features.
Buyer’s Guide to a Smaller Guitar
Knowing the features and benefits to look for can make your purchase decision easier. In this buyer's guide, we will explore what you should consider before investing in such a guitar.
Playing Style
The first thing you should consider is your playing style. This will determine the size and shape of the guitar that will best suit your needs. For instance, if you prefer fingerstyle playing, you will benefit from a smaller guitar with a shorter scale length and a narrower neck. On the other hand, if you play strumming chords, a larger guitar with a wider neck will provide the optimal sound.
Type of Wood
Next, you should consider the type of wood used to make the guitar. Top-quality acoustic guitars are usually made of solid wood, which produces a richer and more balanced sound. The most common wood types used include cedar, spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Each wood type has its own unique sound that will affect the overall tone of the guitar.
Body Shape
Another crucial feature to consider is the body shape. Acoustic guitars come in various shapes and sizes, including dreadnought, concert, and parlor. The choice of body shape will impact the guitar's projection and tone. A dreadnought body shape, for example, is perfect for projecting a full and rich tone, while a concert body shape produces a balanced and intimate sound.
Type of String
Additionally, the type of string used on your acoustic guitar will determine the overall sound quality and playability. When choosing guitar strings, you'll have to decide between steel or nylon strings. Steel strings are known for providing a brighter, more articulate sound. Whereas, Nylon strings are mellower and easier on the fingers, as are lighter strings versus heavier ones.
In conclusion, purchasing a smaller acoustic guitar that fits your needs can be challenging. It's essential to consider factors such as playing style, wood type, body shape, and string type. By paying adequate attention to these features, you'll equip yourself with more knowledge and make an informed purchase decision.
We've covered our Top 5 small guitars in this article to get you started.
Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar
The Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar is a popular choice for beginner or smaller musicians looking for a smaller instrument that is both comfortable to play and offers high-quality sound.
Pros:
- This guitar is designed with a 3/4 size, making it ideal for young players who are just starting out, and for those with smaller hands who might have trouble navigating full-sized guitars.
- One of the standout features of the Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar is its high-quality construction. The body of the guitar is crafted from high-quality wood, with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides. This construction leads to a rich and warm tone, with a balanced sound that is suitable for a range of playing styles.
- In terms of playability, the Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar is a dream to handle. Its smaller size makes it easy to hold and maneuver, while the slim neck and low action make it easy to play with precision and accuracy. Additionally, the guitar comes with a handy digital tuner, allowing you to tune the instrument quickly and easily.
Cons:
- Of course, like any product, the Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar does have a few downsides. One of the main drawbacks is that the smaller size may not be suitable for larger players or those who prefer a fuller, more resonant sound. Additionally, some users have reported that the tuning pegs can be a bit finicky, requiring frequent adjustments to keep the guitar in tune.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar is an excellent choice for a beginner guitar or for musicians who are looking for a high-quality instrument that is both affordable and easy to play. With its solid construction, rich tone, and versatile playability, this guitar is sure to please players of all levels and musical styles.
YAMAHA FS800
The YAMAHA FS800 is an acoustic guitar that boasts impressive features and capabilities that make it a great option for intermediate and advanced players alike.
Pros:
- With a solid spruce top and nato back and sides, this guitar produces a warm, rich sound that is ideal for a wide range of playing styles.
- One of the standout features of the YAMAHA FS800 is its compact size. With a smaller body than many other acoustic guitars, this model is easier to handle and play, making it a great choice for those who are looking for a more comfortable experience. Additionally, the guitar has a sleek, modern design that is sure to appeal to those who appreciate aesthetics.
- Another pro of the YAMAHA FS800 is its affordability. Compared to other high-quality acoustic guitars, this model is relatively inexpensive, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Additionally, the guitar is built to last, with high-quality materials that ensure it will stand up to years of use.
Cons:
- Of course, there are also some potential downsides to the YAMAHA FS800. Some players may prefer a larger body size, which can result in a fuller, more resonant sound. Additionally, the guitar may require some minor adjustments to achieve optimal playability, such as changes to the action or intonation.
Overall, however, the YAMAHA FS800 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable acoustic guitar that delivers impressive sound and performance. With its solid construction, modern design, and versatile capabilities, this guitar is sure to satisfy even demanding musicians. So if you're in the market for a new acoustic guitar, the YAMAHA FS800 is definitely worth considering.
Martin LX1 Little Martin
The Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar is a popular choice among musicians who want a high-quality instrument that is easy to transport.
Pros:
- This compact, versatile guitar has a solid spruce top and mahogany high-pressure laminate back and sides, which provide a warm and balanced tone. Additionally, the guitar has a modified low oval neck profile with a hand-rubbed finish that makes it comfortable to play.
- One of the standout features of the Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar is its size. With a length of just 23 inches, this guitar is small enough to bring with you on the go, making it perfect for traveling musicians or those who want to practice on the road. Despite its small size, however, the LX1 doesn't skimp on sound quality. With its solid spruce top and mahogany construction, this guitar produces a rich, full-bodied sound that is hard to beat.
- Another great feature of the Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar is its affordability. While Martin guitars are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, they can also be quite expensive. However, the LX1 is priced at a more reasonable level, making it accessible to musicians on a budget.
Cons:
- When it comes to drawbacks, the Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar does have a few. The small size of the guitar can be a disadvantage for some players, particularly those with larger hands. Additionally, some guitarists may find that the guitar doesn't quite have the depth and complexity of sound that a larger, more traditional Martin guitar might offer.
Overall, the Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar is an excellent choice for musicians who want a high-quality instrument that is easy to transport and won't break the bank. While it may not be ideal for everyone, its compact size and great sound make it a popular choice among many musicians and a solid investment for those who are in the market for a new acoustic guitar.
Zager ZAD900CE Acoustic Electric Guitar
The Zager ZAD900CE Acoustic Electric Guitar is a high-end instrument that is designed to cater to the needs of experienced musicians who require top-notch sound quality and precision. This guitar boasts numerous features that set it apart from others in the same category.
Pros:
- One of the standout features of the Zager ZAD900CE is its solid spruce top, which produces a warm and beautifully balanced sound. The back and sides are made of solid rosewood, which enhances the guitar's tonal range. The guitar also features a cutaway design, which allows for easy access to the higher frets. A dual-action truss rod is built in, allowing for easy adjustment of the guitar's neck and string action.
- In terms of electronics, the Zager ZAD900CE comes equipped with a Fishman Presys+ preamp and pickup system that delivers a rich and natural sound when amplified. This system also features a built-in tuner, making it easy to quickly tune the guitar.
- The guitar's overall build quality is exceptional, with a durable and visually appealing high-gloss finish. The attention to detail in the construction of this instrument is evident, with features such as inlaid abalone rosette and pearl inlays on the fretboard.
Cons:
- However, as with any guitar, there are some downsides to the Zager ZAD900CE. Firstly, it is one of the more expensive acoustic guitars among its peers, which may be prohibitive for some musicians. Additionally, some players may find the cutaway design to be less aesthetically appealing than guitars with a more traditional shape.
Overall, the Zager ZAD900CE Acoustic Electronic Guitar is an outstanding instrument that offers exceptional sound quality and precision for serious musicians. While its high cost may be a turnoff for some, its numerous features and attention to detail make it well worth considering for anyone seeking a top-tier acoustic electric guitar.
Taylor GS Mini Mahogany
The Taylor GS Mini Mahogany acoustic guitar is a popular choice for players of all levels, thanks to its exceptional playability, rich tone, and compact size. This small guitar has several noteworthy features that set it apart from other instruments in its class.
Pros:
- One of the most impressive features of the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany is its mahogany construction, which gives it a warm and mellow tone that's perfect for strumming and fingerpicking alike. The guitar's top is made from solid mahogany, while its sides and back are constructed from layered mahogany, which provides a balanced and resonant sound.
- Another standout feature of the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany is its compact size, which makes it perfect for traveling and playing on-the-go. Despite its small stature, this guitar has a surprisingly full and expressive tone, thanks in part to its X-bracing pattern and arched back design.
- Other notable features of the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany include its slim C-shaped neck profile, which makes it comfortable to play for extended periods of time, and its high-quality Taylor tuners, which keep it in tune even during rigorous playing sessions.
Cons:
- Cons of the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany may include its price, which is higher than some other options in its category, as well as its lack of traditional acoustic guitar aesthetics, which some players may find less appealing.
Overall, the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany is an exceptional instrument that's well worth the investment for players seeking a premium acoustic guitar with top-notch features and versatile tone.
FAQ: The Best Guitars for Smaller Acoustic Players
1. What should someone with smaller hands look for in an acoustic guitar?
Someone with smaller hands should look for a guitar with a smaller scale length and a slim neck profile. This will make it easier to reach the strings and play chords comfortably.
2. What is the ideal scale length for someone with smaller hands?
Short scale length guitars, which typically have a scale length of around 24 inches, are ideal for someone with smaller hands. These guitars have a shorter distance between the frets, making it easier to play chords and stretch across the neck.
3. Are parlor guitars a good option for people with smaller hands?
Yes, parlor guitars are a great option for people with smaller hands. They are smaller in size than a full-sized guitar, making them easier to handle and play.
4. Do acoustic guitar body styles matter for people with smaller hands?
Yes, the body style of an acoustic guitar can make a difference for people with smaller hands. A guitar with a smaller body, such as a concert or parlor size, will be easier to reach around and play comfortably.
5. Are classical guitars a good option for people with smaller hands?
Classical guitars can be a good option for people with smaller hands. They often have a thinner neck profile than other guitars, which can make it easier to play chords.
6. What is the difference between an acoustic guitar and an acoustic electric guitar?
An acoustic guitar is a traditional guitar that relies solely on its natural sound. An acoustic electric guitar has a built-in pickup, allowing it to be plugged into an amplifier or sound system for greater volume and control.
7. How do piezo pickups work on acoustic electric guitars?
Piezo pickups are a type of pickup that uses vibrations to convert the sound of the strings into an electrical signal. They are often used on acoustic electric guitars for a more natural sound.
8. Do thinner strings make it easier for people with smaller hands to play guitar?
Thinner strings can make it easier for people with smaller hands to play acoustic guitar. They require less finger strength to press down and can be more comfortable to play.
9. Can volume and tone controls on an electric guitar be useful for people with smaller hands?
Yes, volume and tone controls on an electric guitar can be useful for people with smaller hands. They allow for greater control over the sound and can help compensate for any difficulty reaching certain frets.
10. Is it worth investing in an expensive acoustic guitar for someone with smaller hands?
Investing in an expensive acoustic guitar may not always be necessary for someone with smaller hands. It is more important to find a guitar with a comfortable neck and the right scale length for your needs. There are many great options available at different price points.
Summary of Acoustic Guitars for Small Hands
In conclusion, finding the right acoustic guitar for smaller hands can make all the difference in a player's ability to comfortably and confidently play and progress.
- Parlor and short scale guitars offer smaller body sizes and shorter scale lengths, making it easier for players with smaller hands to reach and fret chords.
- Additionally, slim necks with a narrower nut width and lighter string tension can also provide a more comfortable experience while playing guitar.
- While a full sized dreadnought guitar may be too large for some players, there are a variety of smaller options available that still deliver high-quality sound and performance.
- Investing in a new guitar with a solid mahogany top or piezo pickup (for acoustic-electrics) can also greatly enhance the tone.
Ultimately, the best acoustic guitars for small hands are ones that offer a comfortable neck profile and playable size, without sacrificing sound quality or versatility.
Best Budget Option: Vangoa 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar
Best Value for the Money: YAMAHA FS800
Best for Traveling: Martin LX1 Little Martin
Best Premium Option: Zager ZAD900CE Acoustic Electric
Best Overall: Taylor GS Mini Mahogany
Thanks for checking us out, and keep rockin’!
*FYI, when you make a qualifying purchase through one of our links, we might receive a small commission from Amazon or other retailers, at no additional cost to you, which helps us to fund this site. It's a way to find what you're looking for while supporting us in the process!