what is the first guitar you should buy

🎸 Acoustic: The All-Rounder

Why choose acoustic first?

• Ready to play anywhere—no amp needed, perfect for casual jam sessions or campfires. reddit.com+10musicradar.com+10guitarworld.com+10wiingy.com

• Builds finger strength fast, producing a richer tone when you eventually switch to electric. themusicdepot.co.uk+5anthemtuition.co.uk+5wiingy.com+5

• Higher string tension and action mean you’ll master proper fretting technique early. fender.com+3wiingy.com+3themusicdepot.co.uk+3

Potential drawbacks

• Can be tough on beginner fingertips—steel strings demand calluses. glamour.com+15anthemtuition.co.uk+15pitchfork.com+15

• Body size might be large for some learners—consider ¾ size or junior models. fender.com+15guitarworld.com+15guitarworld.com+15

⚡ Electric: Easier on the Hands

Why go electric?

• Light strings, slim necks, low action – super comfy, especially for small hands or older beginners. wiingy.com+1musicradar.com+1

• Instant gratification—plug in, choose your tone, and play—great for rock, pop, or solo playing. musicradar.com+15guitarworld.com+15musicradar.com+15

• Amplifier controls let you practice quietly with headphones. instrumentinsight.com+4themusicdepot.co.uk+4guitarworld.com+4

Consider this

• Extra gear needed—you’ll need an amp, cables, maybe pedals—adds to cost and setup hassle. reddit.com+4instrumentinsight.com+4themusicdepot.co.uk+4

• Focus on electric techniques—you might miss out on acoustic nuances like fingerpicking or campfire strumming. pitchfork.com+11instrumentinsight.com+11fender.com+11

🎼 Classical/Nylon: Gentle and Beginner-Friendly

Why consider a classical guitar?

• Soft nylon strings are easy on fingers—great for all ages starting out. wiingy.com+1reddit.com+1

• Wider neck promotes precision and good finger placement, building solid technique early. reddit.com+4wiingy.com+4reddit.com+4

Things to note

• Narrow neck means it’s less ideal for fast leads or rock styles, but perfect for classical, flamenco, and gentle fingerpicking. guitarworld.com+15fender.com+15pitchfork.com+15

🧭 Which One Suits You Best?

1. Ask your heart:

   • Love campfires and unplugged sessions? Go acoustic.

   • Dream of shredding rock riffs? Choose electric.

   • Want something gentle and melodic? Try classical.

2. Try before you buy: Holding and playing instruments in store helps a lot—comfort is key. guitarglissando.com+14reddit.com+14fender.com+14musicradar.com+15fender.com+15reddit.com+15glamour.com

3. Think about your future: Starting on acoustic builds solid technique; electric is easier on the hands, classical is gentle and precise. All can lead anywhere—plenty of guitarists own more than one!

4. Budget for extras: Acoustic and classical need only a tuner and case; electrics need amp and cables

   ✅ Final Takeaway

   All guitars teach valuable skills. What matters most is which guitar inspires you. If an instrument draws you in, you're far more likely to pick it up and practice. Choose the one that fits your music taste, hand comfort, and lifestyle—and you’ll be off to a strong start.

   Once you're playing confidently, you can always expand—or switch! Want help setting up, choosing accessories, or beginner lessons? Just say the word!