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10 Best Guitars For Kids 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Ashthorpe 30-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Blue), Basic Starter Kit w/Gig Bag, Strings, Strap, Tuner, Picks

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,142
Size
Type of Guitar
Playability

Most important from
8496 reviews

Size
This guitar is perfectly sized and well made for young beginners, providing a comfortable and approachable playing experience.
Type of Guitar
The sound quality is warm and clear, delivering great tone that stands out especially at this price point.
Playability
The guitar stays in tune well and encourages consistent practice with its ease of use and appealing design.
Durability
It feels solid and reliable, not flimsy or cheap, making it a trustworthy choice for a first real guitar rather than just a toy.

The Ashthorpe 30-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package is tailored for young beginners and teens starting to learn guitar. Its 30-inch size and lightweight design make it easy to hold and handle for smaller hands, which is important for comfort and playability. The guitar features 18 smooth frets and six steel strings on a basswood body, offering a warm and versatile sound that responds well whether playing softly or loudly.

This combination of laminated basswood and a fixed bridge adds decent durability, making it a reliable option for new players. The blue finish and overall look are attractive without being flashy, likely appealing to kids who want something stylish but simple. A big plus is the complete starter kit that comes with useful extras like a gig bag, strap, tuner, picks, and extra strings – all of which support a beginner’s learning journey without extra purchases.

The guitar is right-handed only, which limits options for left-handed players. While the alloy steel strings provide bright tone, they might feel a bit tough for very young children just starting out. The Ashthorpe package offers a well-rounded, affordable entry-level guitar set that balances ease of use, sound quality, and practical extras, making it a solid pick for kids ready to start playing.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,142
Size
Type of Guitar
Playability

Most important from
8496 reviews

Size
This guitar is perfectly sized and well made for young beginners, providing a comfortable and approachable playing experience.
Type of Guitar
The sound quality is warm and clear, delivering great tone that stands out especially at this price point.
Playability
The guitar stays in tune well and encourages consistent practice with its ease of use and appealing design.
Durability
It feels solid and reliable, not flimsy or cheap, making it a trustworthy choice for a first real guitar rather than just a toy.
#2

Yamaha CGS102A Half-Size Classical Guitar - Natural

Rating
9.1
Size
Type of Guitar
Playability

Most important from
1120 reviews

Size
Perfect size for children, comparable to a Martin L1 backpacker, and fits perfectly in the hands of a 6-year-old.
Type of Guitar
A fantastic little guitar with a mellow tone and good sustain, making it a keeper for anyone looking for a nylon stringed instrument.
Playability
Playability is enjoyable and without flaws, making it easier for beginners to learn and grow with the instrument.
Aesthetics
Despite minor imperfections in the finish, the overall appearance and feel of the guitar are highly appreciated.

The Yamaha CGS102A Half-Size Classical Guitar is a great choice for kids learning to play guitar. Its half-size makes it easier for smaller hands to handle, contributing to better playability. The spruce top and meranti back and sides not only provide a decent sound quality but also ensure the guitar is lightweight, which is crucial for young players. The nylon strings are gentler on the fingers, making it more comfortable for beginners.

The natural finish and rosewood fingerboard give the guitar a classic and appealing look, which kids might find engaging. However, the fixed bridge system could be limiting for those looking to experiment with different tones. Durable enough to withstand the rough use by kids, it maintains its structure and appearance well.

It is a good entry-level guitar, but if a child shows significant progress or interest in advanced playing, they might outgrow this guitar relatively quickly and require a more versatile instrument. For beginners, especially younger children, this Yamaha model is an excellent and practical starting point into the world of music.

Rating
9.1
Size
Type of Guitar
Playability

Most important from
1120 reviews

Size
Perfect size for children, comparable to a Martin L1 backpacker, and fits perfectly in the hands of a 6-year-old.
Type of Guitar
A fantastic little guitar with a mellow tone and good sustain, making it a keeper for anyone looking for a nylon stringed instrument.
Playability
Playability is enjoyable and without flaws, making it easier for beginners to learn and grow with the instrument.
Aesthetics
Despite minor imperfections in the finish, the overall appearance and feel of the guitar are highly appreciated.
#3

Fender FA-25N 3/4 Size Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Perfect Beginner Guitar for Kids that is Easy on Fingers, Includes 3 Months of Free Lessons, Natural

Rating
8.8
Size
Playability
Durability

Most important from
1451 reviews

Size
Lightweight and perfect for travel, this guitar combines portability with beautiful playability.
Playability
The guitar arrived in great condition, with smooth, shiny frets and minimal setup required, making it an easy choice for beginners.
Durability
Its build quality and intonation are impressive, holding tune well and providing a satisfying playing experience.
Aesthetics
Visually appealing with a nice open sound, it stands out as a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance.

The Fender 6 String Acoustic Guitar, specifically the 3/4 Size FA-25N model, is an excellent choice for kids and beginners looking to learn how to play. Its smaller ¾-size body makes it comfortable for younger players and those with smaller hands, which enhances playability. The nylon strings are gentle on the fingers, making the learning process less intimidating. Plus, it comes with a free subscription to Fender Play, offering access to numerous instructional videos that can help users build their skills while playing songs they enjoy.

Durability is another strong point, as Fender has a solid reputation for building quality instruments that can withstand the rigors of practice. The guitar features a walnut bridge and a smooth finish, contributing to its sound quality. Additionally, the 2-year limited warranty gives buyers peace of mind regarding potential defects.

On the downside, some might find this guitar’s sound not as rich as full-sized models, particularly when played in larger settings. While the ¾ size is great for kids, it may not be as satisfying for adult beginners who might prefer a full-sized guitar for a fuller sound experience. Also, being an acoustic guitar, it doesn't have built-in pickups, which limits its use for performances without additional equipment. Aesthetically, the natural finish is visually appealing and fits well within the classic look of Fender guitars, although it might not stand out as much in a crowded room of colorful instruments.

Rating
8.8
Size
Playability
Durability

Most important from
1451 reviews

Size
Lightweight and perfect for travel, this guitar combines portability with beautiful playability.
Playability
The guitar arrived in great condition, with smooth, shiny frets and minimal setup required, making it an easy choice for beginners.
Durability
Its build quality and intonation are impressive, holding tune well and providing a satisfying playing experience.
Aesthetics
Visually appealing with a nice open sound, it stands out as a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on performance.

Buying Guide for the Best Guitars For Kids

Choosing the right guitar for a child can be a rewarding experience that fosters a lifelong love of music. When selecting a guitar for a young player, it's important to consider factors such as size, playability, and the child's musical interests. A well-chosen guitar can make learning more enjoyable and help the child progress more quickly. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking a guitar for a kid.
SizeThe size of the guitar is crucial for a child's comfort and ability to play. Guitars come in various sizes, typically ranging from 1/4 size to full size. For very young children (ages 4-6), a 1/4 size guitar is usually appropriate. For children aged 6-9, a 1/2 size guitar is often a good fit. Kids aged 9-12 might find a 3/4 size guitar more comfortable, while older children and teenagers can usually handle a full-size guitar. Choosing the right size ensures that the child can hold and play the instrument without strain, making the learning process more enjoyable.
Type of GuitarThere are three main types of guitars: classical, acoustic, and electric. Classical guitars have nylon strings, which are softer and easier on the fingers, making them a good choice for beginners. Acoustic guitars have steel strings and produce a louder, brighter sound, which might be more appealing to some children. Electric guitars require an amplifier but are easier to play because the strings are lighter and the neck is narrower. The choice depends on the child's musical interests and the type of music they want to play. For example, if they are interested in rock music, an electric guitar might be more motivating.
PlayabilityPlayability refers to how easy and comfortable the guitar is to play. Factors affecting playability include the action (the height of the strings from the fretboard), the neck profile, and the overall weight of the guitar. Lower action makes it easier to press the strings down, which is important for beginners. A thinner neck can be easier for small hands to grip. It's important to choose a guitar that feels comfortable for the child to hold and play, as this will encourage regular practice and enjoyment.
DurabilityDurability is an important consideration, especially for younger children who might be less careful with their instruments. Look for guitars made from sturdy materials that can withstand some rough handling. Laminated wood guitars are generally more durable and less expensive than solid wood guitars, making them a good choice for kids. A durable guitar will last longer and provide a better return on investment.
AestheticsThe appearance of the guitar can be a significant factor for children. A guitar that looks appealing to them can increase their excitement and motivation to play. Guitars come in a variety of colors and designs, so consider the child's personal preferences when making a choice. Allowing the child to have a say in the look of their guitar can make them feel more connected to the instrument.

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