Step into the world of compact yet powerful music with our roundup of the best small guitars available in the market. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of options perfect for beginners or seasoned musicians seeking a portable and versatile instrument. Get ready to discover the perfect blend of convenience and quality in these small wonders.
The Top 10 Best Small Guitars
- 21-Inch Mini Wooden Guitar for Aspiring Musicians — A compact, easy-to-play 21-inch Blue Acoustic Mini Wooden Guitar from Ready Ace, perfect for kids 4 and above who are eager to explore their musical talents.
- Rogue Rocketeer RR50 Mini Travel Electric Guitar — Rogue Rocketeer RR50 7/8 Scale Electric Guitar — A versatile, 7/8 short-scale guitar with a basswood body, humbucking pickup, and easy-to-play features, making it perfect for rocking on the go.
- Travel-Friendly, Full-Size Blackstar Carry On Guitar — Experience full-size guitar tuning and feel in a compact travel guitar, with a durable Okume body and neck, and coil-splitable mini humbucker for optimal play.
- Hofner Shorty Travel Electric Guitar + Gig Bag — Gold Edition — The Hofner HCT-SH-GT-O Shorty Electric Travel Guitar offers a lightweight yet powerful option for guitarists, with its iconic design and versatile features encased in a stunning gold top finish that’s both easy to carry and packs a punch.
- Axe Heaven Fender Mini Guitar Build Your Own Kit — Experience the thrill of crafting your own miniature Telecaster guitar with Axe Heaven’s Fender Telecaster Build Your Own Mini Guitar Kit, perfect for ages 18+ with a passion for precision and attention to detail.
- Fender Redondo Mini Acoustic Guitar — Compact and Beautiful — Discover the big sound of a small guitar with Fender’s Redondo Mini Acoustic Guitar — Sunburst, featuring a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, and everything you need to start playing right out of the box.
- Blue Lava Touch Smart Portable Mini Guitar for Beginners — Immerse in the vibrant world of music with the Blue Lava Touch Smart Guitar, featuring an energy-efficient HILAVA system, a stunning multi-touch display, and diverse features to ignite your creativity and mastery.
- Ashthorpe 39-Inch Electric Guitar, Perfect for Small Spaces — Experience the iconic style and versatility of Ashthorpe’s electric guitar, featuring three classic single-coil pickups, S-S-S controls, and a wide range of tones for beginner and intermediate players.
- Electric Guitar Starter Kit for Beginners — Experience the warm and rock sound of a best beginner-friendly electric guitar kit, complete with accessories for a fun and durable learning experience.
- Vault Junior — Mini Acoustic Kids’ Guitar in Natural — The Vault Junior 1/4-size acoustic guitar is a compact, high-quality choice for budding musicians, featuring superior tuners, a natural glossy finish, and easy-to-learn fret markings. Ideal for kids or travelers looking for a portable yet powerful guitar.
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Reviews
21-Inch Mini Wooden Guitar for Aspiring Musicians
If you’re looking for a small guitar that’s perfect for both children and adults who want to learn to play, the 21-inch acoustic mini wooden guitar from Ready Ace is the ideal choice. I recently tried this guitar, and it had a few features that stood out to me. The quality basswood body gives it a classic look, while the poplar wood nick adds a touch of elegance. The nylon strings are smooth to the touch, making it easier for beginners to strum and play chords.
For the little ones (4 years and up), the thin frets and low strings make it effortless to play. It’s the perfect present for a child who enjoys music or wants to explore their hidden talent. Despite being compact, it doesn’t compromise on sound quality. However, I did find that I needed to tune it quite often to keep it in tune.
Overall, the 21-inch acoustic mini wooden guitar from Ready Ace is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to learn to play guitar. Its ease of use, combined with its classic design, makes it a standout option among small guitars.
Rogue Rocketeer RR50 Mini Travel Electric Guitar
I recently picked up the Rogue Rocketeer “Mini” short-scale electric guitar, and let me tell you, it has been a game-changer for me. I’ve been struggling with hand issues, and this little guy has become my perfect go-to for practice and travel.
This thing boasts a basswood body, maple neck, and a lightning-fast scale that makes it a breeze for smaller hands. I can’t stress enough how much I appreciate the string-thru design and the individually adjustable bridge saddles. It also includes a lightweight gig bag, picks, strap, and cable, which is super handy for someone like me who loves to practice on the go.
As I mentioned earlier, my hand issues made me look for a guitar that wouldn’t put too much strain on my hands. This Rogue Rocketeer has been an absolute delight. It’s a bit smaller scale-wise than what I’m used to, but I find that it fits perfectly into my practice routine and keeps my hands comfortable throughout the day.
However, there are a couple of things I would like to point out. The guitar’s intonation tends to be off in some places, which has been a bit of a challenge. But overall, I’m happy with this guitar, and I can’t believe the amazing value I got for the price!
Travel-Friendly, Full-Size Blackstar Carry On Guitar
The Blackstar Carry on Travel Guitar Black is a portable guitar that offers the same playability and feel as a full-sized guitar. Equipped with a lightweight yet sturdy Okume body and neck, it also includes a coil-splitable mini humbucker pickup, making it versatile for various musical styles. One of the main highlights of this travel guitar is its ability to be accepted as a carry-on with most major airlines, making it perfect for musicians on-the-go.
Standing at 29.4 inches long and 8.3 inches wide, the guitar weighs only 3.95 pounds, ensuring that it’s easy to transport. Its small size also makes it suitable for placing in your living space without occupying too much space. The neck is true and the frets are level, with a smooth finish after being dressed to avoid sharp edges.
The Blackstar Carry on Travel Guitar Black comes with a protective gig bag and all necessary accessories, including a truss rod adjustment tool. One of its drawbacks is the presence of a minor cosmetic dent along the front side, which might affect the overall appearance but does not impact the functionality of the instrument.
Overall, this compact travel guitar is a great investment for musicians seeking an instrument that can be easily carried around while maintaining the same quality as a full-sized guitar. It offers a convenient and easy-to-play musical experience, making it a great addition for any travel gear collection.
Hofner Shorty Travel Electric Guitar + Gig Bag — Gold Edition
Introducing the Hofner HCT-SH-GT-O Shorty Electric Travel Guitar, a compact yet powerful instrument that’s perfect for musicians on the go. The guitar features a basswood top and back, coupled with a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, giving it a lightweight yet durable construction. With a 24.7" scale length and Hofner Open Humbucker pickup, this travel guitar packs a punch while maintaining its portable size.
Despite its small stature, the Hofner Shorty guitar delivers a full-scale sound with punchy power. Its “Shorty” design has been loved by musicians for years, and it remains a popular choice for both casual and professional players. The guitar is versatile, suitable for rehearsal rooms, stages, and even at home on the sofa. Included with the package is a gig bag for added convenience and protection.
While the Hofner Shorty guitar may not have all the bells and whistles of a full-sized instrument, it makes up for it with its compactness, affordability, and iconic design. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a beginner looking to travel light, this electric travel guitar is sure to impress.
Axe Heaven Fender Mini Guitar Build Your Own Kit
A few weeks ago, I decided to surprise my friend who’s been an aspiring guitarist for years. Instead of a full-sized guitar, I thought I could get him something special, something much cooler — Axe Heaven’s mini Telecaster!
It arrived in a neat little package, complete with all the parts needed to assemble this diminutive instrument. Since it is a mini guitar, it is ideal for those who have a small living space or just want a fun project to work on. I followed the instructions carefully, using precision screwdrivers and the suggested glues for a sturdy bond.
The most exciting part came when I started painting it to personalize it. The miniature size made it perfect for the task. He loved the result and, to his delight, this mini replica still played surprisingly well with just 6 strings.
However, building this mini guitar isn’t quite the same as constructing a full-sized guitar. It requires advanced model building skills and extra materials, making it an incomplete offering. Additionally, the small parts can pose a choking hazard, making it unsuitable for children under 18.
Overall, Axe Heaven’s mini Telecaster can be an enjoyable DIY project for an adult guitar enthusiast. It has a unique charm that makes it an interesting conversation piece. With a little imagination and effort, this mini guitar kit could become the best surprise for a guitar lover. But remember, it’s not a complete guitar kit, and it’s recommended for ages 18 and above due to the small parts hazard.
Fender Redondo Mini Acoustic Guitar — Compact and Beautiful
The Fender Redondo Mini Acoustic Guitar is a compact yet powerful instrument that’s perfect for those looking for a smaller guitar option. With a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this mini guitar packs a big sound into a smaller package.
It comes with a convenient and sturdy Fender gig bag, making it easy to transport and keep safe. The Redondo Mini also features an easy-to-use clip-on tuner, a strap for comfortable playing, strings for extra coverage, and a pack of Fender 3-Picks in thin, medium, and heavy gauges. Additionally, an Austin Bazaar instructional DVD is included to help you learn and master your new instrument.
Overall, the Fender Redondo Mini Acoustic Guitar offers a great balance of portability and performance, making it an excellent choice for musicians of any skill level.
Blue Lava Touch Smart Portable Mini Guitar for Beginners
I recently gave the Blue Lava Touch Smart Guitar a spin, and I must say, it’s unlike anything I’ve ever played before. It’s vibrant, sleek, and packed with so many features that it made me feel like a rockstar in no time. The multi-touch display and HILAVA system are a game-changer, adding a whole new level of creativity to my guitar playing.
The new material and the lite bag give it a modern touch, and the array of colors to choose from makes it a great fit for anyone. Plus, the tons of effects at my fingertips made it a lot of fun to experiment with different sounds. Recording and sharing my loops with the constantly updated grooves felt like a breeze.
However, the battery capacity isn’t the longest-lasting on the market, and it took some time to get used to the unique FlyNeck neck shape. Overall, though, this little guitar packs a big punch, and I can’t wait to see what else it’s capable of.
Ashthorpe 39-Inch Electric Guitar, Perfect for Small Spaces
I recently got my hands on Ashthorpe’s 39-inch electric guitar, and I must say, it’s been a pleasant addition to my daily life. The mint and white finish with a hint of green really caught my eye, and it fit perfectly in my apartment.
The contoured design made it easy for me to hold and play the guitar, even for long hours. The three classic single-coil pickups, or S-S-S pickups as they’re called, provided a versatile range of sounds. I could switch between a clean and clear tone to a heavy and distorted sound just by using the 5-position pickup switch selector.
This electric guitar is an ideal choice for both beginner and intermediate-level guitar players. The affordability of this starter package is one less worry for those new to the world of music.
Electric Guitar Starter Kit for Beginners
Take your first steps into the world of guitar playing with this complete beginner starter kit, boasting a full-size 39" electric guitar. Its warm and rock sound is delivered by strong and durable materials, ensuring its longevity and your love for it.
The portable guitar bag enables you to transport it to class, performances, or band rehearsals with ease. This guitar’s standard string spacing and smooth neck provide a fantastic touch, perfect for both beginners and experienced players alike.
Whether as a personal acquisition or a sentimental gift for someone special, this kit is a perfect starting point.
Vault Junior — Mini Acoustic Kids’ Guitar in Natural
As a budding guitarist, I recently got my hands on the Vault Junior 1/4-size acoustic guitar in natural finish. With its 30.5-inch body length and suitable for musicians of smaller stature or children between 4–6 years of age, I found this guitar to be a perfect companion for my musical journey. The closed-gear, die-cast tuners along with chrome strap buttons made it easy for me to maintain the guitar’s tune and portability.
The natural glossy finish combined with cream binding and a sleek rosette pattern made the guitar aesthetically pleasing. Its 19-inch scale length and fret markings along the neck allowed me to learn and practice easily. Despite its size, this guitar had a sound that was every bit as loud as a standard-sized guitar. The laminated spruce top and basswood back and sides gave it a solid construction, making it a durable choice for beginners like myself.
Buyer’s Guide
If you’re in the market for a small guitar, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best instrument for your needs. In this guide, we’ll cover important features, considerations, and general advice for small guitars, helping you make the right choice for your musical journey.
Size and Portability
One of the primary reasons for choosing a small guitar is its compact size and ease of transport. Consider the overall dimensions, including the length of the instrument, the width of the body, and the thickness of the neck. Opt for a model with a lightweight body and a comfortable neck profile that allows for easy handling and storage.
Tone and Sound Quality
While size is crucial, the tone and sound quality of a small guitar should not be overlooked. Look for instruments with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, as these factors contribute to a richer and more resonant sound. Additionally, consider the type of wood used in the construction, as different materials produce distinct tonal qualities. Testing the instrument’s sound in person is ideal, but some online retailers offer videos or audio samples to help you make an informed decision.
Playability and Comfort
A small guitar should be comfortable to play, with a smooth and easy-to-grip neck. Consider the fingerboard’s material, as some options are more comfortable for certain players. Additionally, the action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) should be adjustable to ensure optimal playability. A well-fitted and balanced instrument will result in a more enjoyable and satisfying playing experience.
Durability and Maintenance
A small guitar should be built to withstand regular use and travel. Look for instruments with durable materials and a solid construction, as these features will help the guitar withstand the rigors of everyday use. Additionally, proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning, string changes, and periodic adjustments, will help extend the life of your small guitar and maintain its quality over time.
FAQ
What makes a small guitar perfect for beginners and professional players alike?
A small guitar is designed to be lightweight and easier to handle for beginners, especially children. This instrument also features a narrower neck and frets, making it more comfortable to play. However, it is also appreciated by professional players who may prefer a more compact size, especially during live performances.
The small guitar has a unique blend of sound that can be appreciated by both experienced and novice players, enhancing the overall listening experience for the audience. Additionally, the portable nature of these guitars can make them an attractive option for musicians on-the-go or for those who want a secondary guitar for different occasions.
Are small guitars suitable for rock, jazz, and other genres of music?
Certainly! While small guitars often have a lighter and more versatile tone, they are suitable for various music genres. Rock and jazz musicians have successfully incorporated the sound of small guitars into their compositions. The small guitar’s unique tonal qualities can contribute to creating a distinct, memorable sound when integrated into different musical styles.
Musicians have found that using a small guitar allows for greater articulation and precision in their playing, which can be highly advantageous across a wide range of musical genres. Ultimately, the choice of whether to play a small guitar for a particular style comes down to personal preference and the desired sound.
Can I customize the look and sound of a small guitar?
Yes, many small guitar manufacturers offer custom options to help you personalize your instrument. You can choose from various finishes to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your small guitar. As for the sound, some models have adjustable soundholes, which can further fine-tune the instrument to your liking. With these custom options, you can create a small guitar that reflects your unique style and preferences.
Additionally, you can purchase different strings and tuning pegs to personalize your small guitar’s sound. Experimenting with different strings and tunings can help you find the perfect combination to suit your playing style and musical preferences. Small guitar stores often have knowledgeable staff that can assist you in choosing the right combination of accessories to create the perfect small guitar for you.
What are the benefits of investing in a high-quality small guitar?
A high-quality small guitar offers superior tonal quality, durability, and playability. Its well-crafted construction ensures better sound projection and a responsive playing experience. High-end small guitars feature superior craftsmanship, resulting in a smoother playing experience with fewer hassles such as tuning issues or uncomfortable fretboard.
Investing in a high-quality small guitar not only provides excellent performance but also retains its value over time. If you take good care of your instrument, you may find that it becomes a valuable collector’s item in the future. Moreover, a top-quality small guitar will appeal to other musicians, which may increase your chances of selling or trading it as needed.
Will I need additional accessories for my small guitar, such as a case or strings?
While some small guitar starter kits may include a case, strings, and other accessories, it’s usually a good idea to invest in high-quality cases and strings for added protection and tonal advantages. A high-quality case will protect your guitar from humidity, temperature changes, and other environmental factors that can damage the instrument over time.
When it comes to strings, high-quality brands often offer different gauges and materials suitable for various playing styles and preferences. Upgrading to higher-quality strings can significantly improve the sound and playability of your small guitar. Properly maintaining and upgrading your small guitar’s accessories will help ensure that it lasts longer and performs at its best.
How can I find the best small guitar for my needs and budget?
Research and read reviews online, ask fellow musicians for their experiences with different small guitars, and visit various music stores to find the best fit for you. It is crucial to consider factors such as tone, playability, build quality, and customization options when selecting a small guitar. Don’t be swayed solely by the price or brand; focus on finding an instrument that excites you and complements your playing style.
While it’s not always advisable to purchase the most expensive guitar on the market, investing in high-quality accessories like cases, strings, and tuners can make a significant difference in your small guitar’s performance and longevity. Remember that the perfect small guitar might just be the one that feels right for you and your musical adventures.
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