The Best Kids Guitar to Get Your Little Rockstar Shredding in No Time
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best kids guitar for your budget and situation, along with our Top 5 recommendations!
If you're a musician hoping to share your passion with the next generation, then finding the best kids guitar for your child is one of the most important steps in getting them started.
Shopping for kids guitars can be tricky - not all models are created equal, and some instruments may be too difficult or complex for young players.
This blog post will provide helpful advice on picking the perfect beginner guitar and highlight what you should know when shopping around. Whether your child is hoping to strum away in acoustic jam sessions or rock out electronic riffs, there's sure to be something here that fits their needs (and your budget) perfectly.
Overview of the Kid's Guitar
The history of guitars for kids dates back many decades to when the first acoustic guitars were created. These guitars were designed specifically for children and had a smaller size, so that they were more comfortable for young players to hold and play.
As the years went on, several manufacturers began to create smaller guitars with nylon strings, which were even more ideal for children to play. These early acoustic guitars for kids were quite simple, with a basic design that included a rosewood fingerboard and mahogany neck, but they were perfectly adequate for young players who wanted to start playing guitar.
As guitar playing became increasingly popular in the mid-twentieth century, electric guitars also emerged as an option for kids. The electric guitar was a game-changer, as it offered a different sound and different possibilities for playing solos and performing hard rock music. Mini electric guitars, like versions of an iconic guitar such as the Fender Stratocaster or Gibson Les Paul, became popular and were favored among younger players.
Today, there are many varieties of guitars for kids on the market. The best acoustic guitars for kids are ones that have a solid sitka spruce top and a mahogany neck, while the best electric guitars for kids often have humbucker pickups or single coil pickups, bolt on maple necks, and walnut fingerboards.
When it comes to choosing the right size guitar, it's important to find a compact guitar or a short scale guitar that is comfortable to hold and play. Accessories like a guitar strap or gig bag are also useful.
As a young guitarist begins their guitar journey, it's important to find the best guitar and guitar lessons that match their skill level and interests. Fender Play is a popular platform that offers lessons for young players, while Guitar World and Guitar Tricks are also great resources for learning and improving skills.
In conclusion, whether it's an acoustic guitar or an electric guitar, a full-size guitar or a short-scale guitar, finding the right guitar for kids is essential to inspire and encourage young players.
Finding the Best Guitars for Kids
When it comes to buying a guitar for kids, there are certain features and benefits that you should look for to ensure that they have the best possible experience while playing. Whether you're looking for an acoustic or electric guitar, there are several factors to consider.
Size
Firstly, size is an important factor when choosing the best guitar for kids. A full-sized guitar may be too large for younger players, who may struggle to play it comfortably. Look for short-scale guitars or parlor guitars that are specifically designed for young players. Alternatively, travel guitars are also a great option, as they are smaller and more portable.
Material
Secondly, material also plays a crucial role in determining the quality of the guitar. Choose a guitar with a basswood body as it is light and easy to handle. Additionally, a guitar with a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard will also ensure a comfortable playing experience.
Style
When it comes to acoustic guitars, a dreadnought acoustic guitar is a great choice for those who want a warm tone. With a longer scale length, younger players will have a better chance of improving their playing ability. In contrast, electric guitars offer a versatile range of sounds and come with either humbucker or single-coil pickups.
Comfort
Moreover, a good guitar should also be comfortable to hold and play. Look for a guitar with a well-fitted gig bag for easy transport to and from lessons. Also, check out the available guitar cable or explore guitar effects for a more varied sound.
Included Lessons
To ensure that your child is well-equipped in learning to play the instrument, consider signing up for guitar lessons. Some great resources include Fender Play, Guitar Tricks, and Guitar World, as these sites provide interactive lessons for beginners.
Ultimately, the best guitar for kids is one that sounds great and feels comfortable to play. Take into account factors such as size, material, and tone when selecting the right guitar for your child. With ample research and consideration, you'll be sure to find a great guitar that will inspire young players towards their musical aspirations.
Top 5 Best Guitars for Kids
Pyle Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit
This acoustic guitar is perfect for younger kids aged 3 to 9 years old. It comes with all the necessary accessories, including picks, a strap, extra strings, and a carrying case. The guitar itself has a small size and features steel strings, making it easy for little hands to play and produce beautiful sounds.
Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar
This acoustic guitar is an excellent choice for a child that is interested in learning classical or folk music. The guitar is lightweight and features a spruce top, meranti back and sides, and a nato neck. It is comfortable to play and produces high-quality sound thanks to its use of quality materials. Additionally, it is a 3/4 sized guitar, making it perfect for younger kids.
Fender FA-115 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Bundle
This acoustic guitar is of great quality and comes with all the necessary accessories that a beginner needs. The bundle comes with a gig bag, tuner, strap, extra strings, and picks, making it easy for kids to start playing right away. The guitar itself is made from spruce and features a walnut fingerboard and bridge, making it easy to learn on.
Epiphone Power Players SG Ice Blue Electric Guitar
This guitar has a smaller and more compact shape, making it perfect for kids with smaller hands. It also has two humbucker pickups, which provide a range of sounds to experiment with when playing. With its lightweight construction and slim-tapered neck, this guitar is great for young rockers. It comes with a guitar cable, picks, strap and a gig bag.
Best Electric Guitar Bundle
Squier by Fender Mini Strat Electric Guitar Bundle
Squier by Fender Mini Strat Electric Guitar Bundle
This iconic Fender Stratocaster is a great choice for kids who are just starting out with guitar lessons. The guitar is of great quality and has a sleek design that is sure to appeal to budding rock stars. It also features 3 single coil pickups and a 22.75-inch scale with a maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard, making it a perfect choice for kids between the ages of 6 to 12.
In conclusion, when choosing a guitar for a child, it is essential to consider factors such as the child's age, musical interests and skill level. With the top 5 guitars for kids on Amazon.com listed above and their unique features, you can be sure to find a guitar that is suited for your child's needs and will help them foster their love for music.
FAQs About the Best Guitars for Kids
Is it better to start with an electric or acoustic guitar?
It depends on their personal preference, but starting with an acoustic guitar is generally more affordable and better to learn on. Electric guitars require more equipment and can be more expensive.
What is the ideal size of a guitar for children?
The best size guitar for kids is the one that they can comfortably hold and play without straining their arms. There are models available comparable to smaller styles such as a parlor guitar, but specifically designed for young players.
What is the scale length on a guitar and why does it matter?
The scale length refers to the distance between the bridge and nut of a guitar, which determines the fret spacing and overall playability. The shorter the scale length, the easier it is for small hands to reach the frets.
What are the benefits of learning to play guitar?
Playing guitar can enhance coordination, cognitive function, and creativity, and it's a great way to relieve stress.
What should I look for in a starter guitar for a child?
A starter guitar for kids should be lightweight and manageable for their size, have a good sound quality, and come with a gig bag or case for protection.
How important is the wood type of a guitar for sound quality?
Certain woods, like rosewood and basswood, can affect the overall sound quality of the guitar. However, the choice of wood should not be the main factor in choosing a guitar for kids, as this will in all likelihood be just a starter instrument, not their ultimate guitar.
What are some resources for kids learning to play guitar?
Fender Play lessons and Guitar Tricks are online guitar lesson platforms specifically geared toward beginners, and Guitar World offers free online tutorials and resources for all skill levels.
Can kids play hard rock or heavy metal on acoustic guitars?
Acoustic guitars can be used for almost any genre of music, but if your child is interested in playing hard rock or heavy metal, an electric guitar may be more suitable.
Is it important for a child's guitar to have a bolt-on maple neck and walnut fingerboard?
No, the type of wood used for the neck and fingerboard should not be the deciding factor in choosing a guitar for kids. Its quality, size, and sound should be the primary considerations.
Can adults use a smaller guitar as a travel guitar?
Yes, adults can also use smaller guitars as travel guitars. These guitars are not only great for young players but also for adults who want a more compact and lightweight option when traveling. Just make sure to choose one with a scale length and overall size that is comfortable for adult hands.
Summary of the Best Guitars for Kids
In conclusion, choosing the right guitar for kids can be a daunting task, especially for parents who are not familiar with the different types available in the market. However, it's crucial to consider factors such as the size of the guitar, type of pickups, and even the fingerboard material to ensure that the child enjoys playing and learns in a comfortable and supportive environment.
By keeping the considerations outlined in this article in mind, parents can help their kids learn and enjoy playing the guitar for years to come.
Here again are our top 5 picks for the Best Guitars for Kids:
Best Budget Option: Pyle Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit
Best Acoustic Guitar: Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size
Best Acoustic Guitar Bundle: Fender FA-115 Bundle
Best Electric Guitar: Epiphone Power Players SG Electric
Best Electric Guitar Bundle: Squier by Fender Mini Bundle
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!