Have you ever dreamed of strumming your favorite songs but thought a guitar cost too much? Many beginners believe a good instrument requires emptying their wallets. The truth is, finding a decent acoustic guitar for under $50 seems almost impossible. You browse online, and the cheapest options look flimsy or sound terrible. It is frustrating to want to start playing, but feel stuck because of a tight budget.
This search for an affordable guitar often leads to confusion. How can you tell if a super cheap guitar will actually stay in tune or even hold together? We know that starting your musical journey should be exciting, not stressful. That is why we dove deep into the world of budget acoustics.
Inside this guide, we cut through the noise. We reveal the best, most reliable acoustic guitars you can grab for less than fifty dollars. You will learn exactly what features matter, even on a shoestring budget. Stop wasting time on unknown brands. Keep reading, and we will show you how to get a playable instrument today!
Top Cheap Acoustic Guitar Under $50 Recommendations
- 🎶 Perfect beginner guitar : Specially designed for students and teens who are just getting started. This 30-inch, right-handed, acoustic guitar features all the bells and whistles. Designed with 18 smooth frets, 6 steel strings, and easy to hold neck
- 🎶 Complete starter kit : Entry-level guitar bundle includes 30-inch acoustic guitar, capo, guitar string winders(3 in 1), nylon bag, 3 picks (of random color), shoulder strap, an extra set of 6 strings, guitar pick guards, cleaning cloths, and an instructional sheet
- 🎶 High-quality tonewoods : Top, back, and sides are crafted from laminated basswood for versatility and warmth, with a high-gloss finish. Whether playing soft or loud, strumming or flatpicking, this guitar remains responsive and retains its tonal integrity. This guitar is built to last
- 🎶 Incredible sound : Perfect for musicians-in-the-making, this beginner acoustic guitar features an impressive tone, bright sound, and standout projection. It's waiting to be heard
- 🎶 Full-size, lightweight Acoustic guitar : Ideal for learners, this beginner guitar is both small and lightweight, measuring 30in Long x 11.5in Wide x 3.3in Deep
- ALL-IN-ONE KIT: No need to purchase any additional accessories; this all-inclusive set comes with a carrying case, extra strings, strap, pick set
- 4 MONTHS OF NO-COST LESSONS: Our partner, Fret Zealot, has lessons for all levels and thousands of individual songs to build your skills. The App (iOS or Android) also includes a highly accurate digital tuner for easy tuning anywhere!
- PERFECT FOR KIDS: Made from durable hardwood with a lacquered finish, this guitar is built to match the look, feel, and sound of a full-sized guitar so kids can learn to play in comfort
- CLASSICAL DESIGN: Built to recreate the iconic curves and sound of the classical acoustic guitar-the tight gap between the strings and fretboard is ideal for beginners and helps reduce player fatigue
- EXPLORE MUSICAL LEARNING: Ideally sized for children to reach every note on the fretboard and available in a variety of unique colors and styles so your child can find their unique sound; GUITAR DIMENSIONS: 30"(L) x 10.5"(W) x 2.75"(H)
- Perfect Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit: Designed for new players, this 38-inch acoustic guitar offers a comfortable size and smooth playability. Everything you need to start playing right away!
- Complete Acoustic Guitar Starter Kit for Beginners: Includes a 38-inch acoustic guitar, a case, guitar pick, pitch pipe, a shoulder strap, and an extra set of strings · no assembly required.The ultimate learn-to-play guitar kit for aspiring musicians.
- All-Inclusive Acoustic Guitar Set with Tuner: Stay in tune with the included digital tuner! This beginner guitar with gig bag and accessories ensures you have the tools to sound your best from day one.
- Student Acoustic Guitar Package for Skill Growth: A guitar kit that grows with your skills! Perfect for beginners advancing to intermediate levels—durable construction and rich sound inspire continuous learning.
- Great Gift for Aspiring Musicians: This cheap acoustic guitar kit for beginners is the ultimate gift to inspire a love of music. Ideal for students, kids, teens, and adults starting their musical journey.
- PRECISION WOUND: D’Addario 80/20 Bronze acoustic guitar strings are precision wound over a hexagonal high carbon steel core.
- BOLD, BRIGHT SOUND: The 80/20 Bronze wrap wire provides bold, bright acoustic sound, with crisp projection that fills the room.
- THE ORIGINAL ACOUSTIC STRING: 80/20 Bronze was originally created by John D’Addario Sr. and renowned guitar maker John D’Angelico in the 1930s.
- EARN REWARD POINTS: Our 80/20 Bronze acoustic guitar strings come with a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn Players Circle points.
- MADE IN THE USA: D’Addario 80/20 Bronze strings are made in the USA—drawn to our exacting specifications at our New York production facility.
- A-frame universal guitar stand for acoustic and electric guitars
- 3 adjustable-width settings to accommodate most guitar shapes
- Lightweight, durable, metal construction; no assembly needed
- Soft foam arms and back rest to protect your guitar
- Folds flat for convenient transport and storage; non-slip rubber feet
- PRECISION WOUND: D’Addario 80/20 Bronze acoustic guitar strings are precision wound over a hexagonal high carbon steel core.
- BOLD, BRIGHT SOUND: The 80/20 Bronze wrap wire provides bold, bright acoustic sound, with crisp projection that fills the room.
- THE ORIGINAL ACOUSTIC STRING: 80/20 Bronze was originally created by John D’Addario Sr. and renowned guitar maker John D’Angelico in the 1930s.
- EARN REWARD POINTS: Our 80/20 Bronze acoustic guitar strings come with a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn Players Circle points.
- MADE IN THE USA: D’Addario 80/20 Bronze strings are made in the USA—drawn to our exacting specifications at our New York production facility.
- CORROSION-RESISTANT, PRECISION WOUND – D’Addario Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings are precision wound with phosphor bronze wrap wire, over a hexagonal high-carbon steel core
- WARM, BALANCED TONE - Phosphor Bronze wrap wire provides tried-and-true D’Addario acoustic tone, with beautiful balance and warmth suitable for all musical genres
- MOST POPULAR ACOUSTIC GUITAR STRING - Now the standard in acoustic guitar strings, Phosphor Bronze strings were originally pioneered by D’Addario in the 1970s
- EARN REWARD POINTS - D’Addario Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings come with a code on the recyclable VCI bag, which you can register to earn Players Circle points
- MADE IN THE USA – Our Phosphor Bronze strings are made in the USA—drawn to exacting specifications at our New York production facility
The Budget Strummer: Your Guide to Acoustic Guitars Under $50
Thinking about starting your musical journey but worried about the cost? You can absolutely find a playable acoustic guitar for under $50! These beginner instruments are perfect for testing the waters. However, knowing what to look for helps you avoid a frustrating purchase.
1. Key Features to Look For
Even at this low price, certain features matter for playability. You want a guitar that sounds okay and doesn’t hurt your fingers too much.
- Action (String Height): This is how high the strings sit above the fretboard. Low action is easier to press down. High action makes your fingers sore fast. Aim for the lowest action you can find on these budget models.
- Tuning Stability: Can it stay in tune after you tune it? Cheap tuners often slip. Check reviews to see if the tuning pegs hold their position.
- Overall Size: Most guitars under $50 will be smaller, often 3/4 size or parlor size. This is great for kids or small adults. Make sure the size fits the player.
2. Important Materials in Ultra-Budget Guitars
Don’t expect solid woods like mahogany or spruce at this price. Manufacturers use cost-effective materials to keep the price down.
- Body Wood: Laminated wood or composite wood (plywood) is standard. This is fine for a first guitar. It doesn’t affect the sound much at this level, but it’s durable.
- Neck: Usually made from poplar or a similar inexpensive wood. A straight neck is crucial. If the neck bows significantly, the guitar is unplayable.
- Fretboard: Often made of dyed hardwood or composite material. Ensure the frets (the metal strips) don’t stick out sharply on the sides of the neck.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A $50 guitar is a compromise. Understanding these trade-offs helps manage expectations.
What Reduces Quality:
- Poor Setup: A poorly set-up guitar, even a good one, plays terribly. Cheap guitars rarely get a professional setup. Expect to do some minor adjustments yourself or have a local shop look at it.
- Cheap Plastic Parts: The bridge pins and nut (the white pieces where the strings rest) are often cheap plastic. These can break easily.
- Intonation Issues: The notes might sound slightly off as you play higher up the neck. This is common and usually unavoidable in this price range.
What Can Still Be Good:
- A Clean Finish: Look for a guitar with no major cracks or peeling paint. A clean finish suggests the guitar was assembled with reasonable care.
- Decent Strings: Sometimes, a cheap guitar comes with surprisingly decent factory strings. Good strings make a huge difference in sound, even on a cheap guitar.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Who should buy this guitar? These instruments serve specific purposes best.
Best Use Cases:
- True Beginner Testing: If you are unsure if you will stick with guitar, this is a low-risk entry point.
- Travel/Camping Beater: You won’t worry about scratching or damaging this guitar if you take it to the beach or on a hike.
- Young Children (Ages 5-8): For very young kids, a small, inexpensive guitar allows them to learn basic handling and strumming without a major investment.
The experience of playing a guitar under $50 is often challenging. The sound quality will be thin, and the neck might feel chunky. However, if you can successfully learn a few chords on this instrument, you will be ready to upgrade when you are serious about playing!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sub-$50 Acoustic Guitars
Q: Can I actually learn to play real songs on a guitar this cheap?
A: Yes, you can learn basic chords and simple songs. However, the guitar might fight you a bit due to high action.
Q: Will this guitar sound good?
A: No, it will not sound professional. The sound will be quiet and lack rich tone. It is functional, not beautiful.
Q: Is it better to buy used instead of new for under $50?
A: Often, yes. A well-cared-for used guitar from a slightly higher original price point will usually play better than a brand-new, lowest-tier model.
Q: What size should I look for if I am an adult beginner?
A: Look for a 4/4 (full size) if you are tall, but a 3/4 size or parlor guitar might be more comfortable if you are smaller.
Q: Do these guitars come with accessories?
A: Rarely. You usually only get the guitar. You will need to budget extra for a tuner and a pick.
Q: How long will this guitar last?
A: If you treat it gently, it can last for years as a practice tool. The main point of failure is usually the tuning gears.
Q: Is it hard to keep this guitar in tune?
A: Yes, it is usually difficult. Cheap tuners slip often, meaning you might tune it several times during a short practice session.
Q: Should I replace the strings immediately?
A: This is highly recommended! New, better-quality strings will instantly improve the sound and often feel easier on the fingers.
Q: What is “action” and why does it matter so much here?
A: Action is the height of the strings over the frets. On cheap guitars, the action is often too high, which makes pressing the strings down very hard on beginner fingers.
Q: Can I upgrade parts on a $50 guitar?
A: You can replace the strings and tuners, but the cost of those upgrades might exceed the cost of the guitar itself, making it less economical.