10 Best Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is designed specifically for beginners, making it a solid choice for anyone just starting out, whether they are kids or adults. Its dreadnought body shape produces a bold and rich bass tone, ideal for genres like country, folk, and bluegrass, which is a strength for newcomers wanting to explore these styles. The lightweight, all-laminate construction enhances playability, and the 'C' shaped neck along with the walnut fingerboard ensures a comfortable grip, making it easier for beginners to practice for longer periods.

One of the standout features is the inclusion of a free subscription to Fender Play, which offers thousands of instructional videos. This is a fantastic resource for beginners, as it allows them to learn at their own pace and play songs they love from the start.

The materials used—like laminated basswood for the back and sides and spruce for the top—are adequate for a beginner guitar but may not provide the same depth of sound as higher-end solid wood guitars. This guitar is best suited for right-handed players, which could limit accessibility for left-handed individuals. The 2-year warranty is a comforting assurance of quality, although some players might find it a bit short compared to others offering longer coverage.

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster is a well-designed beginner electric guitar that suits new players of all ages. It features the classic Stratocaster body shape with a thin, lightweight poplar wood body that makes it comfortable to hold and play for longer sessions. The neck has a 'C' shape profile with a 25.5" scale length and a laurel fingerboard, which helps with easy fretting and smooth playability. This guitar comes with three single-coil pickups and a 5-way switch, offering a versatile range of classic Strat tones, from bright and twangy to warm and mellow. The tremolo bridge adds expressive options like vibrato effects, which can be exciting for beginners to experiment with.

One of the key strengths of this guitar is its beginner-friendly design combined with a Fender Play subscription that provides free lessons, making it easier to learn songs and improve skills. The matte 2-color sunburst finish looks attractive and reduces glare compared to glossy finishes. At just under 10 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for younger players but solid enough for durability.

The use of poplar wood, while light and affordable, might not offer the same tonal richness as more expensive woods like alder or ash found in higher-end models. Also, the single-coil pickups can pick up some hum in certain environments, which is typical but worth noting for beginners. This guitar balances quality, comfort, and playability at an accessible price, making it a smart choice for those starting out who want a reliable instrument that grows with their skills.

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar is a fantastic option for beginners, whether kids or adults. Designed by Fender, a well-respected name in the guitar world, it promises quality and craftsmanship backed by a 75-year legacy. The guitar's body is made of poplar, which is lightweight and comfortable, making it easier for beginners to handle and play. The 'C' shaped neck and laurel fingerboard enhance playability and comfort, crucial for those just starting out.

The three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching offer a variety of classic Strat tones, allowing new players to explore different sounds. The tremolo bridge with a removable arm adds an extra layer of fun with string-bending effects. Included free lessons through Fender Play is a significant bonus, helping beginners quickly build their skills. The guitar also comes with a 2-year warranty, providing peace of mind about its durability and quality.

The guitar's matte black finish might not appeal to everyone, and some might prefer a glossy finish. Additionally, while the poplar wood is lightweight, it might not resonate as richly as higher-end woods like alder or mahogany. However, for a beginner's guitar, the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster offers excellent value, playability, and the trusted Fender quality.