The Best Acoustic Guitars for Beginners (That Don’t Break the Bank)
So, you’ve decided to learn guitar—and you're leaning acoustic. Great choice! Acoustic guitars are portable, low-maintenance, and a fantastic way to build core skills. But with so many models out there, how do you know which one to choose?
At Morris Guitar Company, we help beginners find high-quality, affordable used and refurbished guitars from trusted brands like Fender, Epiphone, Washburn, and Gretsch. Here’s our guide to the best beginner acoustic guitars you can get for under $500—and why used might be the smartest move you’ll make.
🎸 What to Look for in a Beginner Acoustic Guitar
Whether you’re strumming your first chord or working through fingerpicking patterns, a great beginner acoustic should offer:
Comfortable playability – A slim neck and smooth fretboard make learning easier.
Solid tuning stability – So you can spend more time playing and less time adjusting.
Good tone at a low price – You want a guitar that sounds full, not thin or tinny.
Reliable build quality – So it can take the knocks of daily practice.
🔥 Top Acoustic Guitars for Beginners
Here are some tried-and-true models we love to stock—and our customers love to play:
1. Fender CD-60 or CD-60S
Why it’s great: Crisp tone, easy action, and solid spruce top for resonance.
Perfect for: Strumming chords, singer-songwriter styles.
Beginner tip: Look for the “S” model (solid top) for better sound and value.
2. Epiphone DR-100
Why it’s great: Classic dreadnought shape with a warm, balanced sound.
Perfect for: Country, folk, and classic rock.
Beginner tip: Its larger body may feel big at first, but rewards you with volume and depth.
3. Washburn Harvest Series
Why it’s great: Affordable and often overlooked—these guitars have great tone and a comfortable feel.
Perfect for: Beginners who want something unique but reliable.
Beginner tip: Consider a concert body if you’re smaller-framed or want a lighter guitar.
4. Gretsch G9500 Jim Dandy Flat Top
Why it’s great: Short scale, smaller body, and vintage looks.
Perfect for: Blues, folk, and fingerpicking.
Beginner tip: Its smaller size makes it great for kids, travelers, or players with smaller hands.
5. Yamaha FG700
Why it’s great: While not currently produced, the FG700 series are legendary beginner guitars and easy to find used.
Perfect for: Just about anything.
Beginner tip: Grab a refurbished one from a trusted shop to save money and get top-tier tone.
💡 Why Used or Refurbished Makes Sense for Beginners
Buying new is fine—but buying used from a reputable shop gives you:
More guitar for your money
Instruments that have been professionally inspected and set up
Access to discontinued or better-built older models
A lower risk if you’re not sure how long you’ll stick with playing
At Morris Guitar Company, we only sell refurbished gear we’d play ourselves. Each acoustic goes through a full setup, so you’re not fighting with high action or dead strings right out of the gate.
🎶 Let’s Find Your First Guitar
You don’t need to spend a fortune to sound great. With a little guidance and the right instrument, you’ll be making music in no time.
