Acoustic VS Electric Guitar: Which Guitar Should You Start With?

Many people are captivated by playing the guitar, and if you are new to it, one of the first questions you might face is which type of guitar you should learn or buy: acoustic or electric?

Both types of guitar have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s essential to know which is better suited to your needs and interests.

We will discuss the differences between acoustic and electric guitars and provide guidance to help you decide which one you should start with.

Acoustic Guitar

The acoustic guitar is known for its natural and deep sound, which seems to originate from an organic source.

Its sound comes from the hollow body that amplifies the sound from its strings.

Because of this, there’s no need for an amplifier to hear the sound.

Acoustic guitars are often used in folk, country, and classical music. Its sound is perfect for solo performances and intimate settings.

Electric Guitar

On the other hand, the electric guitar relies on electronics to produce sound. It needs to be plugged into an amplifier to be heard.

The electric guitar has a wide range of sounds that can be varied using effects pedals, amplifiers, and other equipment.

It is commonly used in rock, jazz, blues, and funk music.

Advantages of the Acoustic Guitar:

• Simple: You don’t need additional equipment like an amplifier or effects pedals.
• Portable: It’s easy to take anywhere and can be played without electricity.
• Easier to learn basic techniques: It’s ideal for those who want to learn rhythm and chords as its sound isn’t overly complex.

Advantages of the Electric Guitar:

• Softer strings: Easier to press, making it ideal for beginners.
• Versatility: It can be used in various music genres—from jazz and blues to heavy metal.
• Sound control: Many options to modify the sound using pedals and effects.

Accessibility

Acoustic guitars are highly portable and easy to carry. You can simply put your acoustic guitar in a case and carry it on your back, making it convenient to bring to a friend’s house for a jam session or for practise.

For players who dream of joining a band or going on tour, acoustic guitars offer hassle-free travel.

For example, when flying, your acoustic guitar can usually be brought as carry-on without needing to check extra equipment.

If you want to be a street performer or bring your guitar on a camping trip, the acoustic guitar is the perfect choice.

There’s a reason you often see acoustic guitarists busking on the streets or sitting around a bonfire, unlike an electric guitar, which requires an amp and power source, the acoustic guitar can be played anywhere without the need for additional equipment.

It’s more practical for use outside the home.

Another important advantage is accessibility.

Many players are more attracted to the easy, ready-to-use nature of the acoustic guitar.

If your guitar is standing on a stand or stored in its case, the simplicity of picking it up and playing, without needing to plug in or set up additional equipment, encourages more frequent practise.

For some, this ease is a major motivation to play more often.

Ease of Playing

When it comes to ease of playing, electric guitars are often preferred over acoustic guitars, especially for beginners, as long as they are both properly set up.

Generally, beginner acoustic guitars tend to have higher action, meaning the strings are farther from the fretboard.

Because of this, it’s more difficult to press the strings to form chords and notes, particularly for beginners who lack finger strength and skill.

Additionally, acoustic guitars often have heavier strings, requiring more force for plucking and pressing, which can be more challenging for beginners.

On the other hand, a well-adjusted beginner electric guitar generally has lower action, making it easier to press the strings.

Electric guitars also have lighter strings, a smaller and lighter body, and a thinner neck, which is easier to hold.

This differs from the thicker neck and heavier body of acoustic guitars, designed to withstand the tension of heavier strings.

Additionally, the pickups and amplifiers used with electric guitars amplify the sound, allowing beginners to hear their notes clearly without needing to exert too much physical strength.

As a result, along with the lighter string gauge, playing the electric guitar is easier, especially for beginners who are just developing the strength and muscle memory needed for more advanced playing.

Which Guitar Should You Start With?

Choose the acoustic guitar if:

• You prefer a simple setup and don’t want to spend a lot.
• You want to learn the basics, such as chords and strumming.
• You enjoy folk, acoustic pop, or ballad music.

Choose the electric guitar if –

• You’re interested in genres like rock, metal, jazz, or blues.
• You want to explore different sounds and effects.
• You’re willing to invest in an amplifier and other accessories.

Conclusion

In the end, the choice of guitar to study still depends on the student’s interests and goals.

If you want a practical and simple way to start, the acoustic guitar might be the right choice.

However, if you prefer the freedom to explore different sounds and genres, beginning with the electric guitar will be more exciting.

Whatever you choose, remember that both provide creativity, stress relief, concentration, and motor skills.

Consistent practise and perseverance are essential in developing your skills.

In time, you’ll also understand the unique benefits of each type of guitar, and you may even become interested in trying both.

What’s important is to start with an open heart and enjoy every step of your musical journey!