How to Select a Guitar as a Beginner: A Complete Guide

Choosing your first guitar is one of the most exciting steps in your musical journey. But with so many options available, acoustic, electric, classical, budget-friendly, premium, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. If you’re wondering how to select a guitar as a beginner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we’ve helped countless students in Hertfordshire pick their very first instrument. Whether you’re a child, teen, or adult starting your musical adventure, the right guitar makes all the difference in your learning experience. Let’s dive into the factors you should consider before buying your first guitar.

Why the Right Guitar Matters for Beginners

Learning guitar is easier and more enjoyable when you have the right instrument in your hands. Poor-quality or uncomfortable guitar can hold you back, making practice feel like a chore.

On the other hand, the right guitar:

• Helps you develop proper playing technique

• Keeps you motivated to practice

• Produces a sound that inspires confidence

• Fits your body size and comfort level

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we often advise our beginner students during their trial lesson on what type of guitar to buy. This ensures they start their journey with the right instrument tailored to their style and goals.

Step 1: Decide Between Acoustic, Electric, or Classical

The first decision every beginner faces is: Which type of guitar should I start with?

1. Acoustic Guitar

An acoustic guitar is versatile and great for strumming chords, singing along, and playing a wide range of styles from pop to folk. Beginners love acoustics because they are simple, no need for amplifiers or cables. Beginners who want a straightforward, portable guitar to sing and play along with.

2. Electric Guitar

Electric guitars are slimmer, often easier to press down on, and great for rock, blues, and pop styles. They do require an amplifier, but their lighter strings make them comfortable for many beginners. Those who are passionate about rock, metal, or modern music and want to plug in and play with effects.

3. Classical (Nylon-String) Guitar

Classical guitars use softer nylon strings, which are gentle on the fingers. They are perfect for learning fingerpicking techniques and classical or flamenco styles. Younger beginners, or those who enjoy softer, classical sounds.

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we can help you test each type of guitar during lessons, so you’ll know exactly which feels best for you.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Many beginners assume they need to spend hundreds of pounds on their first guitar. The truth?

You can find fantastic starter guitars at affordable prices.

• Beginner range: £100–£250

• Intermediate range: £250–£500

• Premium beginner sets (with amp & accessories): £300+

It’s usually wise to avoid the cheapest “toy-like” guitars, as they can be difficult to tune and uncomfortable to play. A modest investment ensures your guitar will stay in tune and support your learning.

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we often recommend trusted beginner brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Epiphone, which offer excellent value for money.

Step 3: Check for Comfort and Size

A beginner’s guitar should feel comfortable in your hands. Here’s what to consider:

• Body size: Smaller-bodied guitars are ideal for children or petite players. Full-sized dreadnoughts or electrics are better for adults.

• Neck width: Classical guitars have wider necks, which may be harder for small hands.

• Weight: Electric guitars can be heavier, so check if it feels comfortable when standing or sitting.

During your trial lesson at Herts Guitar Lessons, your teacher can guide you on the right guitar size for your body type and hand span.

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Accessories

A beginner guitarist doesn’t just need the guitar, there are a few essential extras to make practice smoother:

• Tuner (keeps your guitar in tune)

• Picks (plectrums for strumming)

• Strap (if playing standing up)

• Case or gig bag (for transport)

• Capo (useful for many beginner songs)

Most starter bundles include these items, but your guitar teacher can recommend the best options for your needs.

Step 5: Buy from a Trusted Store or Ask Your Teacher

While it’s tempting to buy the cheapest guitar online, many beginners end up with poor-quality instruments that are difficult to play.

Instead:

• Visit a local music shop to try guitars in person

• Ask your guitar teacher for recommendations

• Avoid “toy” guitars often marketed to kids

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we regularly help students and parents make informed choices. Our teachers can recommend local Hertfordshire music shops and even go through options with you before you purchase.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make When Buying a Guitar

When buying their first guitar, many beginners unknowingly make mistakes that can slow down their progress. One of the most common errors is purchasing the cheapest guitar available. While it may seem like a bargain, these guitars often don’t stay in tune and can feel uncomfortable to play, which quickly leads to frustration.

Another mistake is choosing the wrong size instrument, if a guitar is too big or too small for the player, it becomes difficult to hold properly and discourages regular practice. Many beginners also ignore comfort, focusing more on looks than playability, which can make learning unnecessarily challenging.

Perhaps the biggest mistake of all is skipping professional advice; without guidance, new players often end up with guitars that don’t match their goals or abilities, resulting in wasted money and lost motivation.

How Herts Guitar Lessons Can Help You Choose

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we understand that selecting your first guitar can feel overwhelming, and that’s why we support our students through the entire process. During your trial lesson, we take the time to discuss your musical interests and the styles you’d like to play, whether that’s acoustic, electric, or classical.

Based on your goals and budget, we offer personalised recommendations that ensure you get a guitar that feels comfortable, sounds great, and motivates you to practice. We also point students toward reliable, budget-friendly brands and trusted local music shops in Hertfordshire, so you can buy with confidence.

Many of our beginners have found their perfect first instrument with our guidance, starting their learning journey with an instrument that truly suits them.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to select a guitar as a beginner doesn’t have to be confusing. By considering type, budget, comfort, and professional advice, you’ll find an instrument that motivates you to play every day.

Remember, the right guitar is your partner in music. It should feel comfortable, inspire confidence, and make you excited to practice.

At Herts Guitar Lessons, we’re here to help you make the best choice, so your journey starts on the right note. Book your trial lesson today, and let’s find the perfect guitar to match your style.