Rockstar Dreams: The Best Kids Electric Guitar

Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best kids electric guitar for your budget and situation, along with our Top 5 recommendations!

best kids electric guitar

Electric guitars may seem like an instrument geared towards older teens and adults, but with the right size and features, they can be a great fit for kids as well.

Not only do electric guitars provide a modern and exciting sound, but they also offer a variety of customization options to keep children engaged and motivated. From mini versions of classic models to kid-friendly color schemes and lightweight designs, there are endless options for parents looking to introduce their children to the world of music.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of electric guitars for kids in more detail, providing readers with facts and details about this popular instrument, and covering a few of our favorites.

Overview of Electric Kid's Guitars

Electric guitars for kids have come a long way since their inception. Traditionally, kids would learn to play the acoustic guitar as their first instrument, but the rise of rock music and its popularity among younger players led to a demand for electric guitars that were suitable for smaller hands and bodies.

The best electric guitars for kids have a number of features that make them ideal for beginners. They are usually smaller in size than traditional electric guitars, with a short-scale length that makes it easier for younger players to fret notes.

They also typically have thinner necks and lighter bodies, making them easier to handle for kids who may not yet have the strength and dexterity to play a full-size guitar.

Additionally, electric guitars for kids often come equipped with accessories like a gig bag, guitar strap, and clip-on tuner, making it easier for them to start playing right away. Many also have humbucker pickups that offer a warm tone and less unwanted noise, making it easier for beginners to focus on their playing.

When it comes to acoustic guitars for kids, the best options are those with nylon strings, which are easier on younger fingers than traditional steel strings. These guitars also tend to have smaller bodies and shorter scale lengths than full-sized guitars, making them more manageable for younger players.

Whether choosing an electric or acoustic guitar, it's important to find the best guitar for kids that fits their needs and skill level. Guitar lessons and resources like Fender Play and Guitar Tricks can help guide their guitar journey and improve their playing skills.

And with just the guitar, guitar cable, and some guitar picks, younger players can start playing solos and impressing their friends and family with their new instrument.

Finding the Best Electric Guitar for Your Child

Among the best guitars for kids, there are a lot of factors to consider. First and foremost, you'll want to decide whether you're looking for an acoustic or electric guitar.

Acoustic guitars are great starter instruments, as they tend to be less expensive and require no additional gear, like amps or guitar cables.

Electric guitars, on the other hand, may be a better choice for kids who want to really dive into playing guitar and rock out.

When considering size, keep your child's age and size in mind. A full size guitar may be too big and unwieldy for younger kids, so a short scale guitar may be a better choice. Additionally, you'll want to choose a guitar with a comfortable scale length and size, as kids will be more likely to stick with playing guitar if it feels easy and manageable.

Some other features to consider when shopping for kids guitars include the type of pickups (single coil or humbucker), the maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, and the overall tonal characteristics of the instrument. If your child is new to playing guitar, you may want to consider signing up for guitar lessons or online courses, like Fender Play, to help them get started.

When choosing a guitar, it's also important to think about the accessories you'll need to play comfortably and safely. A gig bag is a must-have for any guitar, as it will protect the instrument during transport and storage.

Additionally, you may want to purchase a guitar strap and other accessories to customize your child's playing experience.

Top 5 Best Kids Guitars

Best Budget Option

Best Choice Products Beginner Kids Guitar Starter Kit

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Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit

This beginner electric guitar starter kit has it all, with a mini electric guitar, amplifier, gig bag, guitar picks and strap. It makes for a great first guitar and comes in three fun colors.

Best for Shredding

Ibanez GRGM21BKN 3/4 Size Mikro Electric Guitar

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Ibanez GRGM21BKN 3/4 Size Mikro Electric Guitar

Ibanez is a well-respected brand in the guitar world, and its GRGM21BKN 3/4 Size Mikro Electric Guitar is no exception. With its smaller size and lightweight body, it's easy for kids to hold and play. It also features a maple neck, rosewood fretboard, and two humbucking pickups for a powerful sound. Plus, its sleek black design is sure to appeal to young rockers.

Best Gibson-Style Guitar

Epiphone Power Players SG Electric Guitar

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Epiphone Power Players SG Electric Guitar

The Power Players SG from Epiphone is a quality beginner guitar specifically designed with kids in mind. It's a full size electric guitar, but it comes with narrow frets and a comfortable neck profile that make it easier for younger players to handle. Plus, its chrome hardware and vintage sunburst finish give it an authentically vintage look.

Best Starter Kit

RockJam Full Size Electric Guitar Superkit

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RockJam Full Size Electric Guitar Superkit

If you're looking for a full-size electric guitar for an older child or teenager, the RockJam Full Size Electric Guitar Superkit is a great option. Along with the guitar itself, it includes a 10W amplifier, a set of headphones, a stand, a gig bag, a strap, a cable, and picks. The guitar features a contoured body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard, as well as three single-coil pickups and a tremolo bridge.

It can be used as an adult guitar that they can grow into, and with all of these features and accessories, it's an excellent value for the price.

Best Overall

Squier Mini Strat Electric Guitar

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Squier Mini Strat Electric Guitar

This quality guitar from Squier is an excellent choice for kids who are just getting started with electric guitars, and is modeled after the iconic Fender Stratocaster. Its 22.75" scale length and slim C-shaped neck make it comfortable for small hands, while its three pickups and five-way switching provide a range of tonal options.

Plus, with its bright and colorful design, young players will be excited to pick up this impressive guitar and start playing.

FAQs About the Best Guitars for Kids

What is the best size guitar for kids?

The best guitar size for kids generally depends on the child's age and height. It is recommended to get a kid's guitar with a scale length of 22.5 inches or shorter for a younger or smaller child, as this will be more comfortable for them to play.

What is the difference between an acoustic and electric guitar for kids?

Acoustic guitars for kids are best for beginners who want a warm sound, while electric kid's guitars offer a nice bright tone and are perfect for playing loud or distorted music. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the child's personal preference.

What are some good beginner electric guitars for kids?

Some good beginner electric guitars for kids include guitars with solid mahogany bodies, humbucker pickups, and bolt-on maple necks. These features can provide a warm tone and make the guitar easier to play.

What type of guitar cable do I need for my kid's electric guitar?

You will need a standard 1/4" guitar cable to connect your kid's electric guitar to an amplifier. These can be found at any guitar store.

What accessories should I get for my kid's guitar?

You may want to consider purchasing a soft gig bag, clip-on tuner, and other accessories such as guitar picks, straps, and cables. Some starter packs come with all the accessories your child will need to start playing guitar.

Can a kid start playing guitar with a full sized guitar?

It's generally not recommended for kids to start with a full sized guitar. These guitars can be too large and difficult for them to play. It's best to start with a kid's guitar that is the appropriate size for their age and height.

What is the scale length of a kid's guitar?

The scale length of a kid's guitar is typically 22.5 inches or shorter, depending on the child's age and height.

What are some of the best acoustic guitars for kids?

Some great acoustic guitars for kids include guitars with rosewood fingerboards, poplar bodies, and compact sizes. These features can provide a warm sound and make the traditional guitar easier for kids to play.

What are some online resources for kids to learn guitar?

Kids can learn guitar through resources such as Fender Play lessons, Guitar World magazine, and various guitar tricks websites. These resources can provide instructional videos and tips to help kids learn how to play guitar.

What is an iconic guitar that kids might recognize?

Some iconic guitars that kids may recognize could include the Gibson Les Paul and the Fender Stratocaster. These guitars have been used by many famous musicians and are known for their impressive sound and unique design.

Summary of the Best Electric Guitars for Kids

In conclusion, electric guitars for kids provide a great opportunity for young musicians to learn and explore the world of music. The best beginner guitars are those that provide a solid mahogany body or a poplar body with a bolt-on maple neck.

A good guitar is essential to building a strong foundation of playing skills, and a starter instrument should be both reliable and easy to use.

Fortunately, many manufacturers produce a compact guitar that is perfect for smaller hands without sacrificing sound quality or musical potential.

So if you're looking for a great guitar for your child, consider investing in a quality electric guitar that will help them develop their musical talents and inspire them to continue to learn and grow.

Here again are the best kids electric guitar options:

Best Budget Option: Best Choice Products Beginner Kit

Best for Shredding: Ibanez GRGM21BKN 3/4 Size Mikro

Best Gibson-Style: Epiphone Power Players SG Electric Guitar

Best Starter Kit: RockJam Full Size Electric Guitar Superkit

Best Overall: Squier Mini Strat Electric Guitar

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