Is your little one constantly tapping their feet, humming tunes, or just showing an innate curiosity for music? If so, getting them their first guitar can be an incredibly rewarding experience, setting them on a lifelong musical journey. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best guitar for kids that’s just right for their age, size, and budding talent?
It’s a common dilemma for parents. You want something durable, easy to play, and perhaps not too expensive in case it turns out to be a passing fancy. Yet, you also want a proper instrument that provides a genuine learning experience, not just a toy. That’s exactly why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide. We’ve scoured the market to find 10 fantastic options, from genuine beginner instruments to quality play guitars, ensuring there’s something perfect for every young aspiring musician.
Let’s dive in and find the ideal instrument to kickstart your child’s musical adventure!
The 10 Best Guitars for Kids Reviewed
Here’s a detailed look at our top picks, designed to help you make an informed decision.
1. 30″ Wood Classical Guitar with Case and Accessories for…
This Master-Play classical guitar package is designed to get young learners started right away. It’s a fantastic all-in-one kit that doesn’t just provide a real instrument but also includes nearly everything they’ll need for their first steps into guitar playing. The combination of linden wood construction and hybrid steel/nylon strings aims to offer both durability and finger-friendly playability, making it a thoughtful choice for those tiny hands.
- Key Features:
- BEGINNER CLASSICAL GUITAR: Specifically designed for young learners.
- BEST QUALITY MATERIAL: Made from linden wood for top, back, and neck.
- HYBRID STRINGS: Half steel, half nylon for comfort and good tone.
- PRIME PACKAGE: Includes strap, extra strings, picks, case, tuner, and capo.
- GREAT SOUNDS: Produces nice and real tunes for various music styles.
- Pros:
- Comprehensive starter kit with many useful accessories.
- Hybrid strings offer a good balance of durability and comfort for beginners.
- Real wood construction provides a better sound quality than plastic toys.
- Compact 30-inch size is ideal for younger children.
- Cons:
- Tuning stability might require frequent adjustments initially, typical for new guitars.
- The quality of included accessories might vary.
- User Impressions: Parents frequently highlight the incredible value of this package, appreciating that it comes with so many essentials. Kids seem genuinely excited by having a “real” guitar with all the extras. While some note that the strings need regular tuning, it’s seen as a minor trade-off for the overall offering.
- See it on Amazon here
2. ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar 30 Inch Nylon…
The ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar stands out as a serious contender for the best guitar for kids who are truly ready to learn. This 30-inch model is crafted with quality materials like laminated basswood and a maple rosewood fingerboard, ensuring a comfortable playing experience and a surprisingly rich sound for its size. What truly sets it apart is the extensive beginner set that even includes a month of online lessons, making it an excellent educational package.
- Key Features:
- TOP QUALITY MATERIALS: Laminated basswood body, maple rosewood fingerboard and bridge.
- CLEAN AMAZING SOUND: Features an arched back for longer sustain and fuller sound.
- COMPREHENSIVE BEGINNERS SET: Includes case, picks, strap, digital E-tuner, hanger, fingerboard sticker, extra strings, and online lessons.
- GREAT FOR BEGINNERS: 30-inch small size for better playability and portability.
- GUITAR TUNING: Designed for new strings, requiring initial frequent retuning.
- Pros:
- Excellent sound quality for a beginner instrument.
- Very complete kit, including valuable online lessons.
- Comfortable playing feel thanks to quality materials and nylon/steel string combination.
- Portable and easy for young students to handle.
- Cons:
- Digital tuner requires a battery (not included).
- New strings will require frequent tuning in the beginning.
- User Impressions: Reviewers often praise the ADM guitar for its sound, describing it as much better than expected for a beginner model. The inclusion of online lessons is a huge plus for many, making it a truly ready-to-learn package. Its durability and comfortable play are also frequently mentioned.
- See it on Amazon here
3. Fender FA-25N 3/4 Size Nylon String Acoustic Guitar,…
When it comes to musical instruments, Fender is a name synonymous with quality, and their FA-25N 3/4 Size Nylon String Acoustic Guitar lives up to that legacy. This isn’t just a beginner instrument; it’s a genuine Fender, designed with features that make learning accessible and enjoyable. The comfortable “C” shaped neck and soft nylon strings are particularly kind to small, developing fingers, ensuring a gentle introduction to the world of guitar playing. Plus, the included Fender Play subscription adds incredible value.
- Key Features:
- Fender Quality: Backed by 75 years of craftsmanship.
- 3/4 Size Body: Ideal for beginners and players with smaller hands.
- Fender Play Subscription: Includes lessons with thousands of instructional videos.
- Easy Playability: “C” shaped neck and super soft nylon strings.
- Accurate Tuning: Open-gear tuning machines and a walnut bridge for smooth tone.
- Pros:
- Reputable brand known for quality instruments.
- Nylon strings are much gentler on fingertips than steel strings.
- The Fender Play subscription offers structured learning resources.
- Compact size is perfect for comfortable learning.
- Cons:
- Might be a bit pricier than other entry-level options.
- Doesn’t come with as many physical accessories as some kits.
- User Impressions: Parents often speak highly of the Fender FA-25N, noting its superior build quality and sound compared to generic beginner guitars. The included Fender Play lessons are a significant draw, providing a structured learning path. Children find it comfortable to hold and play, making practice more enjoyable.
- See it on Amazon here
4. KidKraft Lil’ Symphony Wooden Play Guitar, Kids Musical…
For the youngest aspiring rock stars, the KidKraft Lil’ Symphony Wooden Play Guitar offers a delightful introduction to musical instruments. Crafted from durable, sustainable wood with child-safe paints, this isn’t a complex learning tool but a wonderful toy that really plays music. It allows toddlers and preschoolers to mimic their musical heroes, strumming strings and experiencing the joy of creating sound. It’s an ideal gift to spark an early interest in music without the pressure of formal lessons.
- Key Features:
- MADE OF WOOD: Crafted from long-lasting, premium, and sustainable materials with child-safe paints.
- REALLY PLAYS: Strum the strings to produce music, introducing kids to the guitar.
- ADJUSTABLE: Strings can be adjusted for tension, adding a realistic feature.
- PERFORM FOR AN AUDIENCE: Colorful and performance-ready design.
- SIZED RIGHT: Kid-size acoustic guitar for ages 3+.
- Pros:
- Excellent for very young children (ages 3+) as a first musical toy.
- Durable wooden construction designed to last.
- Provides a realistic feel and sound for a play instrument.
- Safe materials for young children.
- Cons:
- Not a true “learning” guitar for advanced techniques.
- Sound quality is appropriate for a toy, not a performance instrument.
- User Impressions: Many parents rave about how much their toddlers love this guitar, describing it as a perfect first step into music. They appreciate its sturdy build and that it actually makes sound, unlike some purely decorative toy guitars. It’s often praised for inspiring imaginative play and an early love for music.
- See it on Amazon here
5. Best Choice Products Kids Electric Musical Guitar Play Set,…
If your child dreams of being a rock star, the Best Choice Products Kids Electric Musical Guitar Play Set might just be their dream come true. This isn’t a serious learning instrument, but a fantastic toy that lets kids fully immerse themselves in the electric guitar experience. With its included amp and microphone, plus demo songs and an AUX input to play their own music, it’s all about interactive fun and encouraging creative expression. It’s safe, durable, and packed with features to keep budding musicians entertained for hours.
- Key Features:
- ALL-IN-ONE PLAYSET: Includes guitar, amp, microphone, and sticker sheets for customization.
- BEGINNER GUITAR: Cultivates musical sense with pretend strumming and whammy bar.
- INTERACTIVE FUN: Wired connection to amp, six demo songs.
- CONNECT YOUR DEVICES: AUX input on the amp to play along to favorite music.
- CHILD-FRIENDLY DESIGN: Durable with beveled edges for safety.
- Pros:
- Full electric guitar experience in a safe, child-friendly package.
- Highly interactive with demo songs, microphone, and AUX input.
- Encourages imaginative play and stage presence.
- Durable construction with safety in mind.
- Cons:
- Definitely a toy, not a functional instrument for learning chords or notes.
- Requires batteries (not included) for the amp.
- User Impressions: Customers love the “rockstar” appeal of this set, noting how much their children enjoy the interactive features and the ability to sing along with the microphone. It’s frequently described as a hit for birthdays and holidays, providing endless entertainment and sparking a passion for performance.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Best Choice Products 30in Kids Acoustic Guitar, All-in-One…
The Best Choice Products 30in Kids Acoustic Guitar is a strong contender for the best guitar for kids who are just starting out with acoustic music. This all-in-one kit removes the guesswork of buying accessories, providing everything from a carrying case to extra strings and picks. Its hardwood construction and lacquered finish give it a classic feel, while the nylon strings are a thoughtful touch, making it much easier and more comfortable for small fingers to press down and learn chords without discomfort.
- Key Features:
- ALL-IN-ONE KIT: Comes with carrying case, extra strings, strap, and pick set.
- ULTIMATE BEGINNER ACOUSTIC GUITAR: Features nylon strings for easier play and comfort.
- PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS: Made from durable hardwood with a lacquered finish to mimic full-sized guitars.
- CLASSICAL DESIGN: Recreates iconic curves and sound, with a tight string/fretboard gap for reduced fatigue.
- EXPLORE MUSICAL LEARNING: Ideally sized for children, available in various colors.
- Pros:
- Comprehensive starter kit, great value for money.
- Nylon strings are gentle on young fingers, reducing initial discomfort.
- Durable hardwood construction ensures longevity.
- Designed to look and feel like a real classical guitar.
- Cons:
- Tuning stability may be an issue with new strings, requiring frequent adjustments.
- Might not produce the rich sound of higher-end models, but excellent for beginners.
- User Impressions: Many parents appreciate this guitar for its complete package and child-friendly design. The nylon strings are a consistent highlight, praised for making the learning process less painful for little ones. It’s often recommended as an ideal first instrument for children showing a genuine interest in learning.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Pyle Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit, 3/4 Junior Size All…
The Pyle Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit offers a solid entry point for young aspiring guitarists, delivering a 3/4 junior scale instrument with a traditional classic body style. Pyle is known for its musical equipment, and this guitar carries that reputation into the kids’ market, providing a handcrafted instrument made with linden wood. What makes it particularly appealing is the complete kit, ensuring that beginners have all the essentials – from a gig bag to spare strings – right out of the box.
- Key Features:
- JUNIOR SCALE SIZE: 3/4 size (36″) perfect for lessons, recitals, and practice.
- HANDCRAFTED: Linden wood body, birch headstock, dyed maple wood fretboard, high gloss finish.
- 36” BEGINNER GUITAR SET: Complete kit with gig bag, spare strings, pearloid picks, and cleaning cloth.
- BEGINNER READY: Traditional classic body style, excellent for children starting guitar.
- NYLON STRINGS: Designed for comfort and ease of play.
- Pros:
- Good quality, handcrafted construction for a beginner model.
- Comprehensive kit includes useful accessories for immediate play.
- Nylon strings are ideal for gentle learning on small fingers.
- Junior scale size is perfect for comfortable handling by children.
- Cons:
- May require initial frequent tuning as the strings settle.
- The gig bag offers basic protection, not heavy-duty safeguarding.
- User Impressions: Customers often remark on the pleasant tone and solid build quality of the Pyle guitar for its price point. The completeness of the kit is a big selling point, with many expressing satisfaction that their child could start playing immediately. It’s often seen as a great value for a first “real” guitar.
- See it on Amazon here
8. Acoustic Guitar For Kids By MasterPlay- 30” Beginner Guitar…
Another fantastic option from MasterPlay, this 30-inch acoustic youth guitar is designed specifically to be the perfect first guitar for your child. It boasts a real wood build from top-notch basswood (linden wood), ensuring not only durability but also decent sound quality for a smooth learning experience. This complete starter kit includes an impressive array of accessories, making it a thoughtful and comprehensive gift for any child aged 4 and up, inviting them into the wonderful world of music.
- Key Features:
- PERFECT FIRST GUITAR: Designed as an ideal starter instrument for children.
- REAL WOOD GUITAR: Made from top-notch basswood (linden wood) for quality sound.
- ALL-IN-1 COMPLETE GUITAR STARTER KIT: Includes bag, tuner, strap, extra strings, picks, cloth, and capo.
- TIMELESS DESIGN: 30-inch natural wood finish, lightweight, and comfortable for small hands.
- GREAT GIFT: Unforgettable gift idea for Christmas, Birthdays, and introducing a new hobby.
- Pros:
- Excellent value with a very complete accessory package.
- Real wood construction offers good sound and durability.
- Lightweight and comfortable for young children to handle.
- Classic aesthetic with a natural wood finish.
- Cons:
- Steel strings might be a bit harder on very sensitive fingers compared to nylon.
- Initial tuning can be a frequent task until strings settle.
- User Impressions: Parents frequently praise this MasterPlay guitar for its impressive bundle of accessories, making it a fantastic all-in-one gift. Children love having a “real” instrument, and many positive reviews highlight its sturdy construction and surprisingly good sound for a beginner model.
- See it on Amazon here
9. Kids Toy Ukulele Guitar, 17 Inch Classical Guitar Musical…
For the very young or those just dipping their toes into music without committing to a full guitar, the Kids Toy Ukulele Guitar is a delightful choice. At just 17 inches, it’s incredibly lightweight and perfectly sized for small hands, making it easy for toddlers and preschoolers to grip and strum. While it’s primarily a toy, its four carbon nylon strings provide real sound, helping to inspire musical interest and develop hand-eye coordination and auditory skills in a fun, pressure-free way.
- Key Features:
- PACKAGE INCLUDE: Classical guitar musical toy.
- PRODUCT SIZE: 17 x 5.5 x 1.6 inches, lightweight and small for tiny hands.
- HIGH QUALITY: Made of high-quality plastic with sturdy carbon nylon ropes.
- EDUCATIONAL TOY: Exercises hand-eye coordination and hearing, inspires musical talent.
- WIDELY USED: Great gift for Christmas, birthdays, and parties.
- Pros:
- Perfect size and weight for very young children (toddlers/preschoolers).
- Nylon strings are soft and safe for little fingers.
- Helps develop early musical interest and coordination.
- Durable plastic construction for child’s play.
- Cons:
- More of a toy than a serious learning instrument.
- Limited tonal range compared to actual guitars.
- User Impressions: Reviewers confirm that this ukulele-style guitar is a huge hit with toddlers, who love the bright colors and the ability to make their own music. Parents appreciate its durability and the educational benefits it offers in a playful context, without being overwhelming for very young children.
- See it on Amazon here
10. YEZI Kids Toy Classical Ukulele Guitar Musical Instrument,…
Similar to the previous entry, the YEZI Kids Toy Classical Ukulele Guitar serves as a fantastic mini musical instrument, perfectly suited for introducing very young children to the world of music. Made from durable ABS plastic with four soft carbon nylon strings, it’s designed with child safety and comfort in mind. This lightweight, easily portable ukulele toy encourages basic rhythm and strumming, helping to cultivate a child’s sense of music and creativity without the complexities of a larger instrument.
- Key Features:
- MINI UKULELE TOY: Perfect introduction to music, teaches basic rhythm and strumming.
- UKULELE TOY FOR KIDS: Made from ABS plastic, four carbon nylon strings, gentle on fingers.
- INTERACTIVE UKULELE TOY: Sturdy yet fully playable and easily tuned.
- PERFECT GIFT IDEAL: Best choice for Christmas, Birthday, and parties.
- EDUCATIONAL: Stimulates development, cultivates sense of music, learns basic notes.
- Pros:
- Ideal size and weight for toddlers and young children.
- Safe and durable construction with soft nylon strings.
- Fully playable and tunable, offering a more realistic experience than many toys.
- Great for developing early musical skills and creativity.
- Cons:
- Not designed for serious guitar lessons; it’s an introductory toy.
- Sound quality is basic, suitable for a play instrument.
- User Impressions: Customers frequently note how this ukulele toy becomes an instant favorite for their little ones, providing hours of musical fun. The fact that it can be tuned is a pleasant surprise for many, adding to its appeal as a genuine musical introduction. Its durability and child-friendly design are consistently praised.
- See it on Amazon here
FAQ Section: Finding the Perfect Guitar for Your Child
Choosing the right instrument can be tricky, so let’s answer some common questions parents have when looking for the best guitar for kids.
Q1: What size guitar is best for my child?
A: Guitar size is crucial for comfort and proper technique. Generally:
* 1/4 size (28-30 inches): Ages 4-6 or under 3’6″ tall.
* 1/2 size (30-34 inches): Ages 6-9 or 3’6″ to 4’6″ tall.
* 3/4 size (34-36 inches): Ages 9-12 or 4’6″ to 5′ tall.
* Full size (38-40 inches+): Ages 12+ or over 5′ tall.
It’s always best to have your child try holding the guitar to ensure they can comfortably reach the frets and hold the instrument.
Q2: Should I get an acoustic or electric guitar for a beginner child?
A: For most absolute beginners, an acoustic (classical or steel-string) guitar is recommended.
* Acoustic (Classical): Often has nylon strings, which are much gentler on small fingers. It’s quieter, requires no amplification, and teaches fundamental techniques well.
* Acoustic (Steel-string): Produces a brighter sound, but steel strings can be tough on beginner fingers.
* Electric: While cool, they require an amplifier and cables, adding complexity and cost. They’re also usually heavier. An electric guitar might be better for an older child who has already shown sustained interest or wants to play specific genres.
Q3: Are nylon strings better for kids than steel strings?
A: Yes, generally. Nylon strings are softer and easier to press down, causing less discomfort and calluses on delicate young fingertips. This can significantly reduce frustration and keep a child motivated during the initial learning phase. Steel strings, while producing a different sound, can be quite painful for beginners.
Q4: How much should I spend on a kids’ guitar?
A: For a first beginner guitar, you don’t need to break the bank. Expect to spend anywhere from $50 for a decent starter package to $150-$200 for a reputable brand’s entry-level model (like Fender). For very young children, a quality toy guitar (like a ukulele-style one) can be even less. The key is finding a balance between affordability and playability.
Q5: What accessories does my child need to start playing?
A: A good beginner guitar kit often includes:
* Gig bag/Case: For protection and transport.
* Picks: Different thicknesses can be useful.
* Strap: For standing practice (though most beginners sit).
* Tuner: Essential for keeping the guitar in tune.
* Extra strings: Strings can break, especially when learning.
* Capo: Useful later for changing keys.
* Online lessons/Instructional booklet: A huge bonus for guidance.
Q6: How can I keep my child motivated to learn guitar?
A: Make it fun!
* Praise effort, not just perfection.
* Let them choose songs they like.
* Practice in short, regular bursts.
* Celebrate small achievements.
* Watch live music or guitar videos together.
* Consider private lessons or online courses for structured learning.
* Ensure the guitar is easy to access and comfortable to play.
Q7: At what age can a child start learning guitar?
A: Children can show interest in musical instruments quite early. For a proper learning guitar, ages 5-7 are generally a good starting point, as they develop the necessary fine motor skills and attention span. However, toy guitars (like mini ukuleles) are excellent for children as young as 2 or 3 to introduce musical concepts and hand-eye coordination in a playful way.
Ready to Find Your Child’s First Guitar?
Finding the best guitar for kids truly means finding the right fit for your unique child. Whether they’re a toddler ready for a musical toy or an older child eager to strum their first chord on a genuine instrument, there’s a perfect option out there. Consider their age, size, interest level, and your budget.
No matter which guitar you choose, the most important thing is to foster their love for music and provide them with an enjoyable, encouraging experience. Here’s to many joyful tunes and a lifelong appreciation for music!