We consider what is best to learn: Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar, which one should you try first? There are many teaching philosophies, but everyone has a different idea of what to learn and how.
Let’s get one thing out of the way: if you’ve ever asked someone whether you should start learning on acoustic or electric guitar, you’ve probably heard the same old advice. “Start with acoustic—it builds finger strength!” or “Electric is easier for beginners!” But here’s the truth: most of that advice is stuck in the 1990s.
As someone who’s taught hundreds of beginners (and made plenty of mistakes myself), I’m here to tell you the answer isn’t as simple as you’ve been led to believe. Let’s talk about what actuallymatters.
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The Myth of the “Right” First Guitar
When I first picked up a guitar, I borrowed my dad’s dusty acoustic. It had strings so high off the fretboard that playing a single chord felt like a CrossFit workout. I hated it. I quit after two weeks of playing acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
Later, I tried a cheap electric guitar a friend lent me, and suddenly, everything clicked. The strings were softer, the neck was thinner, and I could actually play “Smoke on the Water” without crying. That’s when I realized: the “right” guitar isn’t about rules—it’s about what keeps you playing.
Acoustic Guitars: Not Just for Campfires
Acoustics get a bad rap for being “harder,” but they’re also wildly rewarding. There’s something magical about the instant feedback of an acoustic—no amps, no pedals, just you and the wood.
Strum a chord, and you feel the sound vibrate against your chest. It’s raw, organic, and perfect if you love folk, country, or singer-songwriter styles. Plus, acoustics are low-maintenance. You can grab one, sit on your porch, and play without plugging anything in. No fuss, no cables, just music.
But here’s the catch: acoustics can be tough on fresh fingers. Thicker strings mean more resistance, which does build finger strength over time. But if you’re the kind of person who gets frustrated easily (no shame—I’ve thrown a pick across the room mid-practice), starting with an acoustic might feel like learning to run in hiking boots.
Electric Guitars: Not “Cheating,” Just Smart
Electric guitars are like the cool, forgiving cousin of acoustics. The strings are lighter, the necks are often slimmer, and let’s be honest—they look awesome. If you’re into rock, blues, metal, or jazz, an electric guitar lets you explore techniques like bending notes, vibrato, and shredding solos way earlier in your journey.
You can also play quietly by plugging in headphones, which is a lifesaver if you live in an apartment or have roommates who hate “Sweet Child O’ Mine” at 2 a.m.
But electrics come with a caveat: gear. You’ll need an amp, a cable, maybe even a few pedals to get the most out of them. That can feel overwhelming (and expensive) for a beginner.
Still, a basic starter kit costs about the same as a decent acoustic these days, and modern modeling amps even come with built-in effects to mimic famous guitar tones.
What Nobody Tells You About Pain (Yes, Pain)
Let’s talk about fingertips. Both acoustic and electric guitars will turn your fingers into tender, throbbing messes for the first few weeks. But here’s the thing: electric guitars are gentler.
Lighter strings mean less pressure to fret notes, which means less blisters and more practice time. If you’re someone with a low pain tolerance (or just impatient), an electric might keep you motivated.
That said, calluses build faster on acoustic. After a month of daily practice, your fingers will feel like leather—a badge of honor! But ask yourself: are you willing to power through the discomfort? Or would you rather ease into it? There’s no wrong answer.
The Genre Trap: Don’t Let Music Snobs Decide
Here’s a hot take: your favorite music should decide Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar for your first instrument, not some outdated rulebook. If you’re obsessed with Ed Sheeran, grab an acoustic. If you dream of riffing like Slash, go electric.
Trying to learn songs you love will keep you motivated. I’ve seen too many beginners quit because they forced themselves to start with a guitar that didn’t inspire them. Passion beats tradition every time.
Size Matters for Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
Acoustic guitars come in all shapes, but many full-sized models have thick necks and wide bodies that can feel bulky if you’re petite or young. Electric guitars, on the other hand, often have slimmer necks and lighter bodies.
For kids or players with smaller hands, this can make a huge difference. There are smaller acoustics (like ¾-size guitars), but they’re not always easy to find or affordable.
Budget: The Sneaky Factor Everyone Ignores
Let’s get real: money talks. A decent beginner acoustic guitar starts around 200, while a solid electric guitar and amp combo might run you300-$400. But here’s the twist: cheap acoustics can be brutally hard to play if they’re poorly set up (high action, sharp frets).
Cheap electrics, however, are often more beginner-friendly straight out of the box. If your budget is tight, prioritize playability over looks. Visit a music store and try both—see which one feels less like a medieval torture device.
The Noise Factor: Keep the Peace
Acoustic guitars are loud. Like, wake-up-the-neighbors loud. If you’re sharing walls with others or want to practice discreetly, an electric guitar + headphones setup is golden. You can crank up distortion at midnight without getting a noise complaint. But if you thrive on the immediacy of an unplugged sound (or live somewhere remote), an acoustic’s volume might feel empowering.
The Big Secret: You Can Switch Later
The best part? Your first guitar doesn’t have to be your forever guitar. Most players eventually own both. I started on electric, switched to acoustic for a few years, then circled back to electric. Each taught me different skills. The goal is to start somewhere—anywhere—and keep going.
So, Which Should YOU Choose?
Here’s my take: if you’re drawn to acoustic music, love simplicity, and don’t mind sore fingers, go acoustic. If you crave versatility, dream of rock god solos, or want a gentler learning curve, go electric. But the real answer? Pick the one that makes you excited to practice. The best guitar is the one you’ll actually play.
Still stuck? Walk into a music store and strum both. Let your hands and heart decide. After all, this is your journey—not some guitar teacher’s rulebook. Now go make some noise.