Picking up a guitar for the first time is exciting

Picking up a guitar for the first time is exciting — and a little overwhelming. With so many shapes, sizes and price points out there, it's easy to get stuck before you've even played a note. Here's what actually matters when you're choosing your first guitar.

Acoustic or electric?

There's no wrong answer here, only what fits how you want to play. Acoustic guitars need no amp, so they're great for practising anywhere — the lounge room, a mate's house, on the road. Electric guitars are lighter on the fingers (thinner strings, lower action), which makes them a little easier to learn on, but you'll want an amp to hear them properly.

If you're drawn to rock, blues or metal, start electric. If you picture yourself around a campfire or writing songs on the back deck, go acoustic.

Getting the size right

A guitar that's too big is one of the biggest reasons beginners give up early — it's uncomfortable, and reaching the frets feels like hard work. As a rough guide:

• Kids under 10: a 3/4 size or travel-size acoustic/electric
• Teens and adults: a standard full-size guitar

If you can, sit with the guitar before buying — it should rest comfortably on your leg with your fretting arm reaching the neck without strain.

What matters on a budget

You don't need to spend big to start well. Focus on:

• Playability — the strings shouldn't sit too high above the fretboard (this is called "action"), or every chord will feel like a fight.
• Tuning stability — decent tuning pegs mean you're playing music, not constantly re-tuning.
• Extras that help you start — a gig bag, spare strings, or a built-in tuner/EQ are small things that go a long way in the first few months.

Looking after your new guitar

A little care keeps any guitar sounding good for years: wipe the strings down after playing, keep it out of direct sun and extreme temperature swings, and loosen the strings slightly if it won't be played for a long stretch.

Ready to find the one? Explore our full range of guitars, from beginner-friendly acoustics to electric guitars ready to plug in and play.