Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question. The neck width of an electric guitar is slightly narrower compared to an acoustic guitar, and the strings are closer to the frets. This means you need less finger strength and the electric guitar is easier to play compared to an acoustic one. Therefore, the answer is:
Yes, you can basically start with an electric guitar
Of course, with an electric guitar, you’ll first need an amplifier and a cable to make it audible at all. You’ll also need a strap to be able to hang it around your neck.
These guitars are not necessarily “easier” to play, but depending on the model, they may feature higher-quality woods, upgraded pickups, or additional features.
At the beginning, we explained that due to the lower string action and the narrower neck, it is somewhat easier to start with an electric guitar. Here are some additional advantages and disadvantages.
ADVANTAGES
› Stability
The solid, massive body of an electric guitar is generally more durable than the comparatively thin hollow body of an acoustic guitar. In case of an accident in the living room or on stage, the electric guitar proves to be more resistant to impacts and less prone to damage.
› Modifiability
In principle, you can replace almost any part of the guitar. For example, a different pickup completely changes the sound. Pickups are among the most frequently replaced components.
› Volume
Here, you can turn it up until the neighbors complain. Depending on how many watts your amplifier has, you can fill a large stage, a small club, or simply a living room. In any case, you can match your volume to a drum kit.
DISADVANTAGES
› Equipment
Without an amplifier and effects, the guitar is almost too quiet to play. The equipment is also an additional cost, but complete starter sets are available at very affordable prices.
› Mobility and Weight
Depending on the size and weight of your amplifier, guitar, and case, transporting your gear from A to B can be quite demanding.
Buy Electric Guitar Starter Sets
If you are unsure about choosing the right equipment for your electric guitar, you can opt for so-called guitar sets or bundles. These usually include everything you need to get started right away.
Starting with an Acoustic Guitar
An acoustic guitar has a beautiful, natural sound that does not require additional equipment such as amplifiers or cables.
Even the most renowned electric guitarists pick up an acoustic guitar at some point. Here are the advantages and disadvantages.
ADVANTAGES
› Natural Sound
The instrument itself is responsible for the sound, with the resonance body or sound box helping to amplify the tone to an audible volume. The strings vibrate, the wood resonates, and you witness a self-produced, lively, and intense physical phenomenon ;-)
› Flexibility
With an acoustic guitar, you do not need an amplifier, a cable, or an effects unit. You can carry it from room to room and play anywhere, without worrying about cable length or where to place an amplifier.
› Lower Costs
Regardless of the price range in which you want to buy a guitar, it is self-explanatory that if you need less additional equipment, you will naturally also have lower costs.
DISADVANTAGES
› Sound Variety
Effects units, amplifiers, and similar gear allow the electric guitar to produce a wide range of sounds. Your acoustic guitar initially has only a single sound.
› Volume
In a band context, an acoustic guitar may struggle to cut through, for example when a drum kit is also part of the group. Standard drums naturally have a much louder volume level, which you can usually only match by amplifying the guitar.
The Difference Between an Electric Guitar and an Acoustic Guitar
With a steel-string guitar or classical guitar, in other words an acoustic guitar, your fingers may hurt a little at first because the strings press into your fingertips in the beginning. After a while, however, calluses form and the problem is solved. If you start with an acoustic guitar and switch to an electric guitar later on, playing the electric guitar will feel easier. Chord progressions or riffs that used to be difficult will suddenly seem quite easy. In that case, you benefit even more in the long run.
Find the Perfect Guitar for You!
Feel free to contact our experts if you have any further questions.
Beginners should choose a guitar that feels comfortable in the hand and is easy to play. For children or people with smaller hands, a classical guitar with nylon strings is often suitable because it is easier to fret. Those who want to play modern music or pop/rock can also choose a steel-string acoustic guitar. Good basic quality is important so that playing remains motivating.
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Which chords should you learn first on the guitar?
For beginners, open major and minor chords are ideal because they are easy to fret and appear in many songs. These include C, G, D, A, E, as well as the minor chords Am, Em, and Dm. With these, you can already accompany a wide variety of simple songs and practice basic playing techniques.
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Which songs are suitable for beginner guitarists?
Suitable songs for beginners have few chords and a simple strumming pattern. Songs with 3–4 open chords, such as many classics from pop, rock, and folk, are perfect for practice. Children's songs or traditional pieces are also well suited, as they usually have a slow tempo and are easy to play along with.
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How much does a good guitar for beginners cost?
A solid beginner guitar usually costs between €100 and €250. In this price range, you can already get instruments with good workmanship, stable sound, and comfortable playability. It is important that the guitar is properly set up – if necessary, a quick check at a specialist store is worthwhile.
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Can you learn guitar without a teacher?
Yes, many people successfully learn guitar on their own today – for example with YouTube videos, apps, or online courses. What matters is regular practice, patience, and a systematic approach. However, a teacher can help avoid technical mistakes and lead to faster progress.
