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10 Best Acoustic Guitars For Small Hands 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar, Natural

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,363
Action Height

Most important from
1202 reviews

Action Height
The action is low without buzzing, which is great for tender fingertips and overall fretting.

The Yamaha JR1 FG Junior is an excellent choice for those with smaller hands or young players looking for a comfortable acoustic guitar. Its 3/4 size design features a shorter neck and smaller body, making it easy to handle and play. The neck width is suitable for players needing a more manageable grip, and the light string gauge ensures easier fingering, which is particularly beneficial for beginners or those with less finger strength.

One of the standout features is the solid spruce top, which contributes to a rich and authentic acoustic sound, ensuring that despite its size, the guitar does not compromise on tone quality. Additionally, it’s a great option for travel, as it’s compact and comes with a gig bag, making transport safe and simple.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While its size is advantageous for small hands, it may not be ideal for more advanced players who prefer a full-sized instrument for a broader range of sound and playability. Some users might find the action height to be slightly higher than preferred, which can make playing challenging if not adjusted. Furthermore, the guitar is predominantly designed for folk and acoustic styles, which might limit versatility for those looking to explore other genres.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,363
Action Height

Most important from
1202 reviews

Action Height
The action is low without buzzing, which is great for tender fingertips and overall fretting.
#2

Yamaha APXT2 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar - Natural

Rating
9.8
Scale Length
Body Size
Action Height

Most important from
807 reviews

Scale Length
This 3/4 scale Yamaha guitar is a quality build with accurate intonation, good string height, and reliable electronics.
Body Size
Perfect for smaller hands, making it easy and comfortable to play while delivering an impressive sound quality for its size.
Action Height
This 3/4 scale Yamaha guitar is a quality build with accurate intonation, good string height, and reliable electronics.

The Yamaha APXT2 is a 3/4-size acoustic-electric guitar designed with smaller hands in mind, making it a solid option for children, beginners, or anyone who struggles with full-size guitars. Its smaller neck width and shorter scale length contribute to a more comfortable playing experience, allowing users to easily reach frets and form chords without strain.

One of the standout features is its spruce top, which delivers a bright and resonant sound. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge not only add to the aesthetics but also enhance playability, giving a smooth feel under the fingers. The System 68 pickup allows for easy amplification, making it suitable for performances or practice with an amplifier.

While the smaller size is advantageous for those with small hands, it may limit sound projection compared to larger-bodied guitars. The action height and string gauge may require some adjustments to suit individual preferences, particularly for beginners who might find certain setups challenging. Additionally, the gig bag included is convenient for transport, but it may not provide the best protection if you're frequently on the move.

Rating
9.8
Scale Length
Body Size
Action Height

Most important from
807 reviews

Scale Length
This 3/4 scale Yamaha guitar is a quality build with accurate intonation, good string height, and reliable electronics.
Body Size
Perfect for smaller hands, making it easy and comfortable to play while delivering an impressive sound quality for its size.
Action Height
This 3/4 scale Yamaha guitar is a quality build with accurate intonation, good string height, and reliable electronics.
#3

Yamaha FG820 Left-Handed Solid Top Acoustic Guitar

Rating
9.7
Action Height
Neck Profile

Most important from
349 reviews

Action Height
The action right out of the box is excellent, making it easy to play bar chords with a light touch.
Neck Profile
The neck is very comfortable in size and cross section, finished in a matte treatment for good grip.

The Yamaha FG820 Left-Handed Solid Top Acoustic Guitar is a well-crafted instrument that offers several strengths, especially for those with small hands. The solid Sitka Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides provide a rich and resonant sound, which is a strong point for this guitar. The Rosewood fingerboard and bridge add to the quality and playability of the instrument.

The neck width and scale length are important specs for those with smaller hands, and while exact measurements aren't provided, Yamaha typically designs their guitars with a comfortable neck profile that should be manageable for many players. A slightly narrower neck would have been ideal for even easier handling. The fixed bridge system and alloy steel strings ensure stable tuning and durability. Diecast tuners are reliable and make tuning adjustments smooth and easy.

One of the drawbacks might be the action height; while it can be adjusted due to the truss rod, some users might find it not low enough out of the box for comfortable playing, potentially requiring further setup. Additionally, while the natural color and finish are appealing, players looking for more visual variety might find the options limited. The guitar's left-handed orientation is a great plus for left-handed players, who often have fewer choices. The Yamaha FG820 is a solid choice for beginners and intermediate players, especially left-handed individuals with smaller hands looking for a quality acoustic guitar.

Rating
9.7
Action Height
Neck Profile

Most important from
349 reviews

Action Height
The action right out of the box is excellent, making it easy to play bar chords with a light touch.
Neck Profile
The neck is very comfortable in size and cross section, finished in a matte treatment for good grip.

Buying Guide for the Best Acoustic Guitars For Small Hands

Choosing the right acoustic guitar for small hands can make a significant difference in your playing experience. The key is to find a guitar that feels comfortable and easy to play, which will help you progress faster and enjoy the process more. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting an acoustic guitar for small hands, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Neck WidthThe neck width, also known as the nut width, is the measurement of the guitar's neck at the nut (the top of the fretboard). This spec is crucial for players with small hands because a narrower neck makes it easier to reach and press down on the strings. Neck widths typically range from 1.6 inches to 1.75 inches. For small hands, a neck width closer to 1.6 inches is generally more comfortable, as it allows for easier finger placement and reduces strain.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance from the nut to the bridge of the guitar. It affects the tension of the strings and the spacing of the frets. Shorter scale lengths (around 24 inches) are beneficial for small hands because they reduce the distance between frets, making it easier to reach chords and notes. Standard scale lengths are around 25.5 inches, but for small hands, a shorter scale length can provide a more comfortable playing experience.
Body SizeThe body size of an acoustic guitar influences its playability and comfort. Smaller body sizes, such as parlor, concert, or 3/4 size guitars, are generally more suitable for players with small hands. These guitars are easier to hold and maneuver, reducing the strain on your arms and shoulders. Larger body sizes, like dreadnoughts, may produce a fuller sound but can be cumbersome for small-handed players.
String GaugeString gauge refers to the thickness of the guitar strings. Lighter gauge strings (e.g., .010 to .047) are easier to press down and bend, which can be advantageous for players with small hands. Heavier gauge strings produce a richer tone but require more finger strength and can be more challenging to play. For small hands, starting with lighter gauge strings can make the learning process smoother and less painful.
Action HeightAction height is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. Lower action makes it easier to press down the strings, which is particularly important for players with small hands. High action can make playing more difficult and lead to finger fatigue. When choosing a guitar, look for one with a low to medium action height, or consider having a guitar technician adjust the action to suit your needs.
Neck ProfileThe neck profile refers to the shape and thickness of the guitar's neck. Different profiles, such as C-shaped, V-shaped, or U-shaped, can affect how comfortable the guitar feels in your hand. For small hands, a thinner neck profile, like a slim C-shape, is often more comfortable and easier to grip. Trying out different neck profiles can help you find the one that feels best for your hand size and playing style.

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