10 Best Starter Guitar For Teen 2025 in the United States

The Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package is a solid choice for teens just starting to learn guitar. Its 38-inch size is a bit smaller than a full-size guitar, making it easier to handle for younger players. The neck is described as easy to hold, which is important for beginners to form chords comfortably. Featuring 6 steel strings and a basswood fretboard, the guitar produces a bright and clear tone, though basswood is a more budget-friendly wood not known for deep resonance like more expensive tonewoods. The build quality is decent for the price, with laminated basswood construction and a glossy finish that helps protect the guitar and adds a nice look.

Designed with beginners in mind, this guitar likely has a manageable string height for easier pressing. What makes this package stand out is the full set of accessories included, such as a tuner, extra strings, picks, strap, and a gig bag, which is very convenient for new players to start right away without extra purchases. Weighing just 2.8 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for teens to carry and play comfortably.

As an entry-level instrument, it may lack the tonal richness and playability found in higher-end guitars. Additionally, it’s right-handed only, so left-handed players will need to look elsewhere. This Ashthorpe kit is a practical and affordable starter guitar bundle that covers the essentials, making it a good fit for teens eager to learn and explore music without overwhelming them with complexity.

The Fender Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is a great starter option for teenagers looking to learn how to play. One of its standout features is its budget-friendly price, making it accessible for families without compromising on sound quality. The all-laminate construction, with a lindenwood top and mahogany back, provides durability—perfect for young and novice musicians who might not handle the instrument with extreme care just yet.

In terms of sound, the scalloped 'X'-bracing paired with a mahogany neck helps produce a full-bodied tone that is impressive for a beginner's guitar. The slim neck and dark-stained maple fingerboard enhance playability, allowing for comfortable learning and easier progress for new players. The aesthetics are also appealing, with a natural finish that looks great on stage or at home.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The build uses engineered wood, which may not resonate as well as solid wood guitars, potentially affecting sound quality over time as the player progresses. Also, while it caters well to right-handed players, left-handed individuals might need to look for alternative options. Another benefit is that this bundle includes everything a beginner would need: a gig bag, tuner, strap, strings, picks, online lessons, and an instructional DVD. This all-in-one package can save time and effort when starting out.

The Yamaha JR1 FG Junior is a 3/4 size acoustic guitar designed with young beginners and players with smaller hands in mind. Its smaller body and shorter 21.25-inch scale length make it easier to hold and play for teens who may find full-size guitars uncomfortable. The neck is made of Nato wood and topped with a rosewood fretboard, offering a smooth playing surface that is comfortable for small hands. Strings are light gauge bronze, which generally means less finger pressure is needed to fret notes, an important feature for beginners.

The spruce top delivers a clear and authentic acoustic tone thanks to Yamaha's trusted craftsmanship, while the mahogany back and engineered wood sides contribute to decent sound quality and durability. A simple fixed bridge and included gig bag make it convenient for travel or storage. Visually, the natural wood finish is classic and appealing without being flashy. However, the smaller size may limit tonal depth compared to full-size guitars, so it might not satisfy those looking to progress quickly in sound quality. Also, engineered wood sides may slightly affect the resonance compared to solid wood models.

This guitar represents a solid choice for teens just starting out, especially if comfort and ease of play are priorities.