Acoustic vs Electric: The Best First Guitar for Beginners (UK Guide)
- Aaron Carrington
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Acoustic vs Electric: The Best First Guitar for Beginners (UK Guide)
Contents
Introduction
One of the most common questions I get from beginner students is: Should I start on acoustic or electric guitar? The answer really depends on your personal preferences, the kind of music you want to play, your budget, and how much gear you're willing to carry around. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each to help you choose the right guitar for you.
Prefer to Watch?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons I cover in this video:
Electric Guitars: Pros and Cons
Pros:
Easier to Play: Electric guitars usually have lower action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard), which makes it easier to press down on the strings. That means less strain on your fingers—especially when you're just starting out.
Versatile Sound: From classic rock to blues and pop, electric guitars are great for a wide range of music styles. Think Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Slash.
Comfortable Neck: Many electric guitars, like Stratocaster-style models, have slim necks that are easy for beginners to handle.
Cons:
Requires Extra Gear: You’ll need an amplifier and cables to get the full sound, which adds to the overall cost.
Heavier Body: Electric guitars can be noticeably heavier than acoustics—especially Les Paul-style models.
Acoustic Guitars: Pros and Cons
Pros:
No Amp Needed: Just pick it up and play. No need for any additional gear, which makes it simpler and more affordable to start.
Lightweight and Portable: While the body is bulkier, it’s lighter overall and easier to carry with a good case.
Beautiful Natural Sound: Acoustic guitars offer a rich, full tone that’s perfect for singer-songwriter styles, folk, and many pop songs.
Cons:
Tougher on the Fingers: Acoustic strings are usually thicker and require more pressure, especially if the action is high. However, a proper setup can make a big difference.
Bulkier Body: The size of the body can be awkward for smaller players or those with limited mobility.
Nylon vs Steel Strings
Another factor to consider is the string type. Steel-string acoustics have a brighter, more modern sound but can be tough on the fingertips. Nylon-string guitars (also called classical guitars) are gentler to play but come with wider necks that can make chord shapes more difficult.
Which Should You Choose? My Recommendation
Right now, I lean towards recommending an acoustic guitar for most beginners. Why? It’s affordable, simple to use, and more than good enough to build your skills. You can currently find a quality acoustic guitar for around £150, and you’re ready to go—no amp required.
If you’re unsure, head to a guitar shop and try both. Play a few chords, feel the weight, and see what inspires you to keep going. Because the best guitar is the one you’ll actually play.
Want More Beginner Help?
📥 Grab my free PDF: *10 Survival Tips for Beginner Guitarists* — full of practical tips to help you get started: https://courses.carringtonguitaracademy.com/10-survival-tips-new-guitarists-overlook
🎸 And stay tuned for something exciting I’ve got coming soon that will take your playing to the next level!
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