10 Best Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is designed specifically for beginners, making it a solid choice for anyone just starting out, whether they are kids or adults. Its dreadnought body shape produces a bold and rich bass tone, ideal for genres like country, folk, and bluegrass, which is a strength for newcomers wanting to explore these styles. The lightweight, all-laminate construction enhances playability, and the 'C' shaped neck along with the walnut fingerboard ensures a comfortable grip, making it easier for beginners to practice for longer periods.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of a free subscription to Fender Play, which offers thousands of instructional videos. This is a fantastic resource for beginners, as it allows them to learn at their own pace and play songs they love from the start.

The materials used—like laminated basswood for the back and sides and spruce for the top—are adequate for a beginner guitar but may not provide the same depth of sound as higher-end solid wood guitars. This guitar is best suited for right-handed players, which could limit accessibility for left-handed individuals. The 2-year warranty is a comforting assurance of quality, although some players might find it a bit short compared to others offering longer coverage.

The Yamaha FG800J NT is a solid choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of acoustic guitars. Its dreadnought body shape offers a robust sound, with the solid spruce top delivering a bright and balanced tone, perfect for strumming chords or fingerpicking. The use of nato and mahogany for the back and sides contributes to a warm, resonant sound, making it enjoyable to play and listen to. With a comfortable rosewood fingerboard, players will find it easy to navigate the frets, enhancing playability and comfort—a crucial aspect for new players.

However, while the FG800J excels in many areas, there are some potential drawbacks. The larger dreadnought body can be a bit cumbersome for smaller players or children, which might hinder their comfort during long practice sessions. Additionally, while the materials used are of good quality, the guitar's construction is primarily aimed at beginners; more advanced players might find it lacking in certain tonal complexities and features that higher-end models offer.

For new guitarists seeking a reliable and well-crafted instrument to facilitate their learning journey, the Yamaha FG800J NT stands out as a commendable option.

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar is a fantastic option for beginners, whether kids or adults. Designed by Fender, a well-respected name in the guitar world, it promises quality and craftsmanship backed by a 75-year legacy. The guitar's body is made of poplar, which is lightweight and comfortable, making it easier for beginners to handle and play. The 'C' shaped neck and laurel fingerboard enhance playability and comfort, crucial for those just starting out.

The three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching offer a variety of classic Strat tones, allowing new players to explore different sounds. The tremolo bridge with a removable arm adds an extra layer of fun with string-bending effects. Included free lessons through Fender Play is a significant bonus, helping beginners quickly build their skills. The guitar also comes with a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind about its durability and quality.

The guitar's matte black finish might not appeal to everyone, and some might prefer a glossy finish. Additionally, while the poplar wood is lightweight, it might not resonate as richly as higher-end woods like alder or mahogany. However, for a beginner's guitar, the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster offers excellent value, playability, and the trusted Fender quality.