Solid Top vs. Laminate Top Acoustic Guitars: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been shopping for your first acoustic guitar, you’ve probably come across the terms “solid top” and “laminate top.” So what’s the difference — and which one should you choose?

🎸 What Is a Solid Top Guitar?

A solid top guitar uses a single piece of tonewood — like spruce or cedar — for the soundboard (that’s the top face of the guitar). This type of wood vibrates more freely, which means:

• Richer tone

• Greater volume

• More dynamic range

• And it actually sounds better over time as the wood “opens up”

Solid top guitars are often the go-to choice for players who care about tone and want a guitar that will grow with them.

🌲 What Is a Laminate Top Guitar?

A laminate top guitar is made from layers of wood pressed together — kind of like plywood. It doesn’t vibrate as freely as a solid top, so the tone is usually a little less complex. But laminate guitars do have their own strengths:

• Lower price point

• More resistant to humidity and temperature

• Durable and great for beginners, travel, or younger players

🧠 Which Should You Choose?

If you're just starting out and want something durable and budget-friendly, a laminate top might be the right choice. But if you care about tone and plan to stick with it, a solid top guitar is often worth the small step up in price.

🔍 Looking for a Great Starter Guitar?

At Morris Guitar Company, we carry both solid top and laminate top acoustic guitars from trusted brands like Washburn, Epiphone, Gretsch, and more — all inspected and ready to play.

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