Guitar is one of the most popular instruments in the world — and for good reason. It’s portable, expressive, versatile, and relatively affordable. But before you start learning chords or playing your favorite songs, there’s one big decision to make: Should you start with an acoustic or an electric guitar?
Many beginners don’t realize how different these two types of guitars feel and sound. Choosing the right one can boost your motivation and make learning much easier. In this guide, we’ll compare acoustic and electric guitars in detail to help you pick the right instrument for your goals, style, and lifestyle.
Why Your First Guitar Choice Matters
Your first guitar will shape how you:
- Learn technique
- Feel about practicing
- Develop your ear
- Choose what styles to explore
- Progress over time
Choosing the wrong type may lead to discomfort, frustration, or boredom — even if you’re passionate about music. The good news? Both acoustic and electric guitars can be great for beginners — if matched to your personal needs.
What Is an Acoustic Guitar?
An acoustic guitar produces sound through its hollow wooden body, which acts as a natural amplifier. When you strum or pluck the strings, the sound vibrates through the body and projects out of the sound hole — no amp required.
Pros:
- Doesn’t need electricity or extra gear
- Warm, organic sound
- Great for singer-songwriters and solo practice
- Easy to bring anywhere
- Often lower cost overall (no amp needed)
Cons:
- Slightly harder to press the strings
- Louder — not ideal for quiet environments
- Less tonal variety compared to electric guitars
- May feel bulky for smaller players
What Is an Electric Guitar?
An electric guitar uses pickups (magnetic sensors) to convert string vibrations into electrical signals. These signals go through a cable into an amplifier, which creates the sound you hear.
Pros:
- Easier to play (lighter strings, lower action)
- Smaller, thinner body — great for kids or smaller hands
- Can be played quietly with headphones
- Huge variety of tones using amps and effects
- Perfect for rock, blues, metal, jazz, and pop
Cons:
- Requires additional gear (amp, cable)
- Less natural resonance when unplugged
- Costs more to get started
- Can lead to “option overload” with tones and settings
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar | Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Natural, warm, resonant | Depends on amp/effects |
| Volume | Loud (no volume control) | Adjustable (can be silent with headphones) |
| Playability | Tougher strings, higher action | Easier on fingers |
| Portability | Self-contained, no amp | Needs amp/cable |
| Cost (starter setup) | Lower (just the guitar) | Higher (guitar + amp + accessories) |
| Style Fit | Folk, country, pop, indie | Rock, blues, metal, jazz |
| Maintenance | Fewer parts, less wiring | More parts, electrical components |
What Style of Music Do You Want to Play?
Your musical taste can help you decide.
Choose acoustic if you like:
- Folk
- Country
- Indie
- Singer-songwriter styles
- Soft pop
- Classical fingerpicking
Choose electric if you like:
- Rock
- Metal
- Jazz
- Blues
- Funk
- Punk
You can always branch out later, but starting with the style you love helps you stay motivated and engaged.
Comfort and Feel: Hands-On Considerations
String tension and action (distance between strings and fretboard) are major factors.
- Acoustic strings are thicker and need more finger pressure
- Electric strings are lighter and easier to bend
- Electric guitars typically have a slimmer neck
- Acoustic guitars have wider necks and larger bodies
Try holding both types in a store if possible. See which feels better in your hands and against your body.
Volume and Practice Environment
- If you live in an apartment or dorm, electric with headphones may be the best choice
- If you want to sing and play casually outdoors, acoustic is perfect
- If you want to record at home without disturbing others, electric setups can be nearly silent
Think about where you’ll be playing most often — and who will be listening.
Budget Considerations
A beginner acoustic guitar can cost $100–$300, with little else required.
A beginner electric setup includes:
- Guitar ($150–$300)
- Amplifier ($50–$150)
- Cable, strap, tuner ($30–$50)
That means an electric setup may cost $250–$500 total — but gives you access to more sonic possibilities.
Accessories You’ll Need (Either Way)
Regardless of your choice, you’ll need:
- Picks (plectrums)
- Tuner (clip-on or app)
- Guitar case or gig bag
- Strap (optional but useful)
- Extra strings
- Cloth for cleaning
Electric guitarists also need:
- Amp (or audio interface)
- Instrument cable
- Headphones (optional)
These accessories help you maintain your guitar and practice comfortably.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing based only on looks
A flashy design won’t matter if it’s uncomfortable to play. - Buying the cheapest option available
Very cheap guitars can be poorly made and frustrating to play. - Not trying both types before deciding
Even a 5-minute test in a music store can reveal a lot. - Assuming one is “better” than the other
Both acoustic and electric guitars are valid — it depends on your needs. - Ignoring setup and comfort
A guitar that’s hard to press or poorly tuned will kill your motivation.
What If You Still Can’t Decide?
Some options give you the best of both worlds:
- Acoustic-electric guitars: Look and feel like acoustics but can plug into amps
- Mini travel guitars: Smaller acoustics, easier to play
- Modeling amps: Simulate acoustic tones with electric guitars
Or… you could rent or borrow a guitar to test it out for a few weeks. That way, you make an informed decision before investing fully.
When to Switch Later
Some guitarists start acoustic and move to electric — or vice versa. Switching is easier once you’ve built:
- Finger strength
- Chord knowledge
- Rhythm control
- Ear training
Once you know the basics, adapting to a different type of guitar takes much less effort.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Guitar That Makes You Want to Practice
The best guitar for a beginner is the one you enjoy picking up every day. Don’t stress too much about getting it perfect. Trust your taste, your comfort, and your goals.
Ask yourself:
- What kind of music excites me?
- Where will I be practicing most?
- What feels better in my hands?
- What sound inspires me?
Then go with your gut. You can always evolve later — but choosing the right guitar now makes your musical journey smoother, faster, and a lot more fun.