If you’re a beginner guitar player and are looking to play electric guitar or acoustic guitar, then congratulations! You’ve made a great choice. Not only is the guitar a fun instrument to play, it’s also gratifying.
But with so many different types of guitars available, it can be daunting for beginner guitarists to know which type of guitar to purchase.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the difference between electric and acoustic guitars and outline some of the factors beginner guitar players should consider when choosing their first guitar.
What are the similarities and differences between Acoustic Guitar vs Electric Guitar?
The acoustic guitar originated in the 19th century as a variation of the Spanish guitar. People began experimenting with different string types and designs, producing unique sounds and styles of playing.
The electric guitar was first developed in the 1930s as a way to amplify acoustic guitars. Today, they’re used for different styles of music, from country to heavy metal.
So let’s delve into the similarities and differences between the two instruments.
Similarities
- Acoustic and electric guitars both have six strings and produce sound through the vibration of the strings.
- Both types of guitars have a fretboard, and tuning pegs, and are primarily made of wood.
- The same chords/notes can be played on both acoustic and electric guitar
- They’re both a type of guitar 😉
Differences
- Acoustic guitars are played unplugged, whereas electric guitars need to be plugged into an amplifier to be heard correctly.
- Electric guitars have larger bodies and are heavier than acoustic guitars.
- Playing styles between acoustic versus electric also differ; acoustic is primarily strummed or fingerpicked whereas electric is usually either picked using picks or “finger tapped”.
- Acoustic guitar strings are usually thicker than electric guitar strings because acoustic needs more tension to project its sound properly
What sort of music do you like?
Choosing a guitar partly depends on what sort of music you like, and what type of music you intend to play.
Acoustic guitars are best suited for playing acoustic pop, folk, and country music. They are also great for playing soft rock and some types of slow rock.
Electric guitars are most commonly associated with heavy metal and rock music. However, they can be used for playing a variety of styles ranging from country to heavy metal.
Pros and Cons of learning the Acoustic Guitar first
It’s the acoustic guitar vs electric guitar debate. Both types of guitars have their strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking to learn guitar, you may be wondering which type of guitar to learn first.
Pros
One of the main reasons why the acoustic guitar is a popular choice for beginner guitarists is that it is relatively easy to learn and play. and it does not require any additional equipment!
No Amp is Required
Acoustic guitars don’t require an amplifier to be heard, which makes them extremely portable and easy to tote around. Acoustic guitars are perfect for playing at home or in smaller spaces, like classrooms or rehearsal studios.
Fingerpicking is easier
Fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar is more straightforward than on an electric.
If you want to play an acoustic guitar but aren’t comfortable with traditional techniques such as strumming or tapping, consider learning to fingerpick first.
Acoustic Guitars are Easier to Practice on
The acoustic guitar is easy to practice. Simply grab it, and start playing! No faffing around with electrical things (that can go wrong!).
You can use a Capo
One of the main advantages of playing acoustic guitar is that you can use a capo to easily change the key of a song, making it easier to play along with other instruments or singers.
Cons
The acoustic guitar is a great instrument, but there are a couple of cons to learning it first.
You Cannot Change the Sound
The acoustic guitar has no amplifier or electronics. By definition, it’s acoustic! As a result, you can’t play around with the sound – you can’t add effects and distortion.
The Strings Can Hurt
Acoustic guitar strings are thicker and higher away from the fretboard than electric guitar strings. This means they can be harder to press down, leading to finger pain and even numbness for beginner guitarists.
Pros and Cons of learning the Electric Guitar first
There’s no doubt that the electric guitar is the most popular type of guitar in the world today. But before you jump onto playing the electric guitar, let’s discover the pros and cons of learning it first.
Pros
As with any instrument, the electric guitar has its pros and cons. While the electric guitar is a great option for those who are looking to play in a band or an acoustic guitarist who is looking for a louder sound, it does have its perks and drawbacks.
You can Control Volume and Tone
An electric guitar allows users to control volume and tone by using knobs or switches on the instrument. Plugging in headphones to an amp is a great practice option for quieter practice. Your neighbours will be eternally grateful for this fact!
Electric guitars also typically have a variable tone control that allows users to adjust the guitar’s sound from bright to subtle. Some electric guitars come equipped with a digital modelling amplifier, which can help users achieve different sound effects and tones.
Electric Guitars are Easier to Learn On
Electric guitars are easier to play due to their lighter strings. The strings typically have a thinner gauge, which means they can stay in tune longer and are not so hard on the old skin.
For the younger player, this really can make a big difference.
There are Many Options and Types
There are many different types of electric guitars, such as the ‘dreadnought’ style invented by C.F. Martin.
Depending on your playing skill and budget, you can choose between a guitar with a single or dual pickup (for playing with distortion) or one that has multiple pickups (for playing with distortion and amp sound). Plus there are 1’000’s of designs, colours, and looks to choose from.
Cons
Electric guitars are widely used in playing different types of music, from rock to pop to blues. They are also very popular with beginner guitar players and students. However, there are some potential disadvantages of playing electric guitar first that you should be aware of.
Tuning is More Difficult for Beginners
Tuning is more difficult for electric guitars than acoustic guitars. It requires a little more attention to make sure you play in tune. It’s not a biggie – but it’s something to at least be aware of.
They’re Heavier
An electric guitar typically weighs between six and twelve pounds, compared to an acoustic guitar weighing between four and eight pounds. This difference in weight is due to the electronic components and mechanisms. So for younger players, there are smaller body guitars that you can buy, weighing less.
Choosing your First Guitar
Well, the obvious way to choose your first guitar, is to follow what your heart desires. I’m pretty confident you have a preference, in which case, follow your gut feeling.
As it’s important to look at guitar reviews before making a decision on a guitar, our list of the top 5 guitars for beginners should help you start your journey:
Our top 5 Electric Guitars for Beginners
Fender Player Stratocaster
The Fender Player Stratocaster is one of the most popular electric guitars for beginners, and it’s easy to see why. With a sleek body shape and beautiful finishes that look like a million bucks, it’s no wonder this guitar is so widely loved. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, what makes this instrument stand out is the versatility of its sound. The three single-coil pickups offer plenty of options for creating your own unique tones and sounds, while the tremolo bridge allows you to add some extra sparkle to your playing. Not to mention, at just 7 pounds, it’s also one of the lightest electric guitars on the market— making it great for people who don’t want to lug around a heavy instrument all day.
THE PERFECT GUITAR
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Gibson Les Paul Standard
The Gibson Les Paul Standard is one of the most iconic electric guitars ever made and an ideal choice for beginners looking for an instrument with classic style and legendary sound. This guitar also comes equipped with a locking Tune-O-Matic bridge which provides superior tuning stability— essential if you plan on doing any live performances or recording sessions. All in all, this is a timeless classic that deserves recognition in any guitarist’s arsenal.
A SUPERB GUITAR SOUND
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Ibanez RG450DX
If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful electric guitar, then the Ibanez RG450DX should be at the top of your list. This versatile instrument offers a range of tonal options thanks to its dual humbucker pickups as well as three switchable modes: N2 (neck), B1 (bridge) or M2 (both). What sets this guitar apart from others in its class are features like the Edge III double-locking tremolo system which allows you to go wild with dive bombs without sacrificing accuracy in intonation, as well as neck pickup changeable between single coils or humbuckers depending on what type of tone you need at a particular moment in time. All these features come together to make this an excellent option for intermediate players who want more control over their sound.
PERFECT FOR A BEGINNING PLAYER
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Epiphone G-400 Pro
When it comes to bang for your buck, few guitars can compare with Epiphone’s G-400 Pro model. This sleek instrument packs a serious punch thanks to its dual Alnico Classic PRO™pickups which provide excellent clarity when playing lead lines or crunchy rhythms alike. It also sports an ultra-slim taper mahogany neck that makes finger positioning much easier and more comfortable than other models on the market— perfect for those long jam sessions! Plus with its signature “Dots & Trapezoid” fretboard inlays and chrome hardware accents, there’s no denying that this stylish axe looks good too!
PERFECT FOR NEW PLAYERS
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Squier Bullet Stratocaster HSS
For those just starting out who want something they can grow into without breaking the bank, Squier’s Bullet Stratocaster HSS is worth considering. This classic-style instrument combines vintage styling with modern technology such as an oversized headstock design that helps keep strings centred during bends, plus two single coil pickups joined by another humbucker at the bridge allowing access to all sorts of clean bluesy sounds as well as heavier tones without having to buy additional pickups down the line. All in all, this is one good value package that will last many years!
A UNIQUE SOUND
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What other gear do I need to play the electric guitar?
You’ll need an amp. We have a dedicated article here discussing the ‘Best Beginner Guitar Amps‘. But if you want to cut to the chase, go grab the Orange Crush 20RT.
You’ll also want to grab a couple of guitar pedals. That’s a whole other world of discussion – so luckily, we have our list of ‘Guitar Pedals Must Haves‘ to help. Cutting to the chase again, get the Boss Digital Reverb RV-6 as a starter pedal.
Our top 5 Acoustic Guitars for Beginners
1. Yamaha FG Series –
The Yamaha FG Series acoustic guitars feature solid spruce tops, mahogany backs, and sides for optimal tone and stability. They come in various sizes, from full-size dreadnoughts to small concert models and even 3/4 sized parlor models. This makes them one of the most versatile acoustic options on the market.
A GUITAR WITH A UNIQUE TONE
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2. Taylor Academy Series –
The Taylor Academy Series offers beginner-friendly acoustic guitars with detailed craftsmanship and bright sounds that you wouldn’t expect from entry-level instruments. These guitars have a sleek design with an arched back body shape which adds depth and complexity to their sound, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing and strumming chords.
A BRILLIANT FIRST INSTRUMENT
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3. Fender CD-60S –
The Fender CD-60S is a classic dreadnought-style acoustic guitar with warm tones thanks to its all-laminate construction. It features a comfortable neck profile which makes it easy for beginners to play without any discomfort, as well as chrome die-cast tuners that are reliable and ensure accurate intonation during performances or recordings.
ACOUSTIC GUITAR PLAYERS LOVE THIS INSTRUMENT
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4. Martin LX1 Little Martin –
The Martin LX1 Little Martin is the perfect travel companion for players on the go who want quality sound without lugging around a bulky instrument case everywhere they go! This little axe features solid Sitka spruce top with mahogany patterned high-pressure laminate back & sides for bright tones that will cut through any mix you’re using it in.
WELCOME TO THE MARTIN GUITAR WORLD
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5. Epiphone DR100 –
The Epiphone DR100 is an affordable option that still delivers big on tone thanks to its select spruce top, mahogany back & sides and vintage sunburst finish which adds warmth to its already deep soundscape! Its dovetail neck joint ensures maximum stability so your intonation will remain accurate at all times no matter what style or genre you choose to explore with this beautiful instrument!
THE RIGHT GUITAR FOR THOSE NEEDING A BIG TONE
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What other gear do I need to play the acoustic guitar?
There are so many accessories available for the guitar, we thought it best to write a dedicated article called ‘The 21 Best Guitar Accessories‘. It should cover everything you need to play successfully – but in summary;
- Get a metronome we recommend the Korg MA-2
- Have a Clip-On Tuner ready to go – the best on the market is the PolyTune Clip.
- Don’t think about leaving your guitar on the bed – it’ll get damaged. Make sure you buy a guitar stand – the best overall stand is the RockJam aFrame.
- The last thing to make your life easier is a music stand. Don’t spend a fortune here. Grab this great little stand from Amazon: CAHAYA Portable Stand
Summary – Acoustic Guitar Vs Electric
It’s up to you to choose the type of guitar that best suits your playing style and needs.
Both acoustic and electric guitars have different playing styles, strings, and designs. While electric guitars allow you to plug in and play through an amp (and have fun creating weird and wonderful sounds), acoustic guitars are better for playing at home or on the go.
Follow your heart, and you can’t go wrong. And don’t forget to comment below and let us know what type of guitar you learned first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is An acoustic guitar better than an electric?
Ultimately, it all depends on the personal preferences of the player. When it comes to acoustic vs electric guitars, the debate of which one is better is primarily opinion-based.
Is it harder to play acoustic or electric guitar?
Electric guitars are often smaller and easier to play due to their lighter strings. Steel-string acoustic guitars typically have higher string tension than electric guitars, making them harder to play.
Is electric or acoustic guitar better for beginners?
Regarding beginner guitar players, the debate between electric and acoustic guitar can be challenging to answer. I really think it’s down to what your heart desires!