So you want to play the guitar but can’t decide whether to go for an acoustic or electric. To help you out, here’s some points to consider. Whichever instrument you choose, it’s easy to get started because there are many inexpensive electric and budget acoustic guitars that work great for beginners. 

Why learn on an acoustic guitar?

Acoustic guitars project sound without needing electronics or outside amplification, making them great for aspiring guitar players on a budget. Once you get your acoustic guitar, you can begin playing immediately. No need to buy cables or amplifiers to hear yourself. And if you’re on a limited budget, you can avoid the extra cost of buying electronics by getting an acoustic guitar.

Many musicians who start on an acoustic guitar find that learning to play a song on acoustic makes it easier to transition electric later – because they’ve already mastered the necessary technique.

Why learn on an electric guitar?

Electric guitars usually have a smaller body and a thinner neck than most full-sized acoustics, which make them easier to hold. They’re also easier on your fingers because the strings are typically lighter or thinner than those used on acoustic guitars.

And because the electronics (pickups and amplifiers) do all the hard work projecting your sound, you don’t have to exert as much effort to make it come through louder. Amplifiers for electric guitars also often come with a headphone input, so you can play without bothering anyone else in your home – something acoustic guitar players can’t claim.

Another exciting benefit of playing an electric guitar is you get to control the different effects.  This will help motivate you to play different songs you like.

Consider your favorite music.

Still can’t decide? What kind of music do you want to play?

Acoustic guitar playing suits many different musical styles.  Whether it’s country, pop, folk, bluegrass, rock or fingerstyle. Electric guitars are great for pop and rock of course, but also other genres such as metal, hip-hop, soul, grunge, dance-rock and rhythm and blues.

So ultimately you need to ponder your own interests. What music, artists or bands do you enjoy listening to? Which inspire you? When you think of the guitar, which guitar instantly pops into your mind: a shiny, striking electric guitar or a warm-sounding, homey-feeling acoustic? One that ‘speaks’ to you should be your choice at the beginning.

Pick up the guitar.  Hold it.  Feel the connection.  Pick or strum the strings.  How does it sound?  Does it connect with you and the music you love?  Make sure it’s consistent with the music you like. Do that and you’ll be more likely to keep practicing and become a better guitar player.

Okay.  You’re still on the fence.  Here’s our last piece of advice…

…go for the guitar that you’re really interested in.

Yes.  The guitar you will use to create the music you’ve always loved. 

Are you a fan of rock bands? Always wanted to play an electric guitar?  Then start with an electric.

Or is folk music is more your thing?  Do you see yourself softly strumming or fingerpicking?  Then go for the acoustic.

Good luck with your guitar-shopping and play on!