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Acoustic vs. Electric Guitars: What’s the difference and how do you choose the right one?

Acoustic vs. Electric Guitars: What’s the difference and how do you choose the right one?
January 13, 2025 11 min read
Acoustic vs. Electric Guitars: What’s the difference and how do you choose the right one?

Choosing whether to buy an acoustic guitar or an electric guitar is one of the first big decisions for any budding guitarist. Both instruments have their advantages, and understanding the differences between them can help you pick the one that suits your style and goals. Whether you're drawn to the warm, natural sound of an acoustic or the powerful versatility of an electric, this guide will break down everything you need to know. We'll compare sound, playing styles, and use cases, and highlight some top picks from American Musical Supply to help you make the right choice.

Gibson acoustic or electric guitarsGibson acoustic or electric guitars

Acoustic vs. Electric Guitars: What's the Difference?

When deciding between an acoustic or electric guitar, it’s essential to understand the foundational differences in how they produce sound, their design, and their ease of use. These distinctions often guide players toward the guitar best suited to their goals.

Sound and Tone

Acoustic guitars are renowned for their natural and resonant sound. The hollow body amplifies vibrations from the strings, resulting in a warm, full tone that’s perfect for genres like folk, country, and singer-songwriter styles. Whether you’re strumming chords or fingerpicking melodies, an acoustic guitar offers an intimate, unplugged experience.

Electric guitars, in contrast, depend on pickups and amplifiers to produce sound. This allows players to shape their tone using effects pedals, amp settings, and pickup configurations. Electric guitars excel in genres like rock, blues, jazz, and metal, offering a range from clean, crisp tones to heavy distortion. If you want a dynamic sound that can adapt to various styles, the electric guitar delivers unmatched versatility.

Design and Build

The most obvious difference between an electric and an acoustic guitar is how they look. Acoustic guitars have a straightforward design, with a hollow wooden body that serves as both the instrument’s amplifier and its aesthetic centerpiece. The strings are typically made of steel or nylon, with steel strings creating a bright, punchy tone and nylon strings providing a softer, classical sound.

Electric guitars have a more complex build, featuring solid, semi-hollow, or full-hollow bodies with electronics like pickups, volume knobs, and tone switches. The solid body of most electric guitars reduces feedback, making them ideal for loud, amplified settings. Additionally, electric guitars often feature sleeker designs and customizable options, such as interchangeable pickups or floating tremolos, appealing to players who want to fine-tune their instrument.

Acoustic-electric guitars look and sound like regular acoustic guitars except they are equipped with a pickup (typically an under-saddle piezo) and can be plugged into an acoustic amplifier or PA system to be amplified for live performance.

Ease of Playing

The playability of an acoustic or electric guitar often depends on the player’s experience level, and this factor can heavily influence the learning curve. Acoustic guitars can be challenging for beginners due to their thicker strings, which require more finger strength to press down, and their higher action (the distance between strings and the fretboard). The wider neck of some acoustics, especially classical models, can also be tricky for smaller hands.

Electric guitars are generally easier to play because of their lighter strings, lower action, and thinner necks. These features make them a popular choice for beginners who want to focus on mastering chords and scales without fighting the instrument. However, their reliance on external equipment like amps and cables means they may feel less accessible for someone looking for simplicity.

Playing Styles and Musical Genres

The type of guitar you choose often depends on the style of music you want to play. Acoustic and electric guitars lend themselves to different genres, making it easier to identify which one aligns with your goals.

Acoustic Guitars: Timeless and Versatile

Acoustic guitars shine in genres that value raw, unprocessed sound. Folk, country, blues, and singer-songwriter styles are natural fits for acoustics, as they provide the warm tones and resonance needed for expressive performances. Their portability also makes them ideal for campfires, unplugged gigs, or quick jam sessions without the need for extra gear.

Electric Guitars: Dynamic and Adaptable

Electric guitars dominate in genres that thrive on amplified sound and effects. Whether you’re diving into rock, metal, jazz, or funk, the electric guitar’s versatility allows you to experiment with tones and textures using pedals, amps, and pickup configurations. From smooth jazz solos to face-melting riffs, the electric guitar is the go-to for players who crave sonic flexibility.

Blending Genres and Experimentation

Some musicians enjoy combining elements of both styles, playing acoustic guitars in rock ballads or using electric guitars for unplugged-style performances. Understanding how each guitar fits into different genres can inspire creativity and help you develop a unique playing style.

Which Is Easier to Learn? Acoustic or Electric Guitar

For beginners, ease of learning can play a significant role in deciding between an acoustic or electric guitar. Both options have their challenges and benefits, but understanding these can help you choose the right starting point.

Acoustic Guitars for Beginners

Acoustic guitars are often praised for their simplicity. With no need for additional equipment like amplifiers or cables, they allow beginners to focus solely on playing. However, their thicker strings and higher action can be tougher on untrained fingers, making them more physically demanding in the early stages. On the plus side, acoustic guitars are excellent for building finger strength and mastering foundational techniques.

Electric Guitars for Beginners

Electric guitars are generally easier on the fingers thanks to their lighter strings and lower action, which require less pressure to play. Their smaller necks can also feel more comfortable for players with smaller hands. The main challenge for beginners lies in the additional gear needed, such as amplifiers and cables, which can complicate setup. Still, many beginners appreciate the excitement of experimenting with different tones and effects early on.

The Verdict: Personal Preference

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your goals and interests. If you want a straightforward, low-maintenance experience, an acoustic guitar might be the way to go. If you’re eager to explore a wide range of sounds and aren’t intimidated by a little extra gear, an electric guitar can be an inspiring option. The best option is to choose the type of guitar best suited for the style of music you want to play. If you do this, you'll be more inclined to practice more often and get more enjoyment from the guitar.

Popular Acoustic and Electric Guitar Models

At American Musical Supply, you’ll find a wide selection of acoustic and electric guitars to suit every player, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Here are some of our top picks to help you start your journey or upgrade your setup.

Acoustics

  • Taylor Guitars: Known for their balanced tone and exceptional craftsmanship, Taylor acoustics are perfect for players of all levels.
  • Martin Guitars: A favorite among professionals, Martin acoustic guitars deliver unmatched resonance and durability.
  • Yamaha Guitars: Offering affordability without compromising quality, Yamaha’s acoustics are ideal for beginners and intermediate players.

The Epiphone J-45 Express - Small Body, Big Sound That’s Perfect for Beginners

The Epiphone J-45 Express is a compact 7/8 size guitar, ideal for both seasoned players on the go and beginners picking up their first instrument. Its shorter 22.68" scale length enhances portability while providing a more comfortable playing experience, making finger stretches easier for those just starting out. Built with quality craftsmanship, the J-45 Express features a layered mahogany body, a mahogany neck with a smooth laurel fretboard, and a spruce top for a balanced, rich tone.

Electrics

  • Fender Stratocaster: A legendary choice for versatility, the Fender Strat suits genres ranging from blues to rock and beyond. For budget-conscious beginners, check out Fender’s more wallet-friendly Squier Stratocaster
  • Gibson Les Paul: Renowned for its rich tone and sustain, the Les Paul from Gibson is a staple in rock and classic genres. Check out Epiphone guitars if you want the look and feel of a Gibson but at a more beginner-friendly price tag. 
  • Ibanez RG Series: Perfect for shredders and metal enthusiasts, Ibanez electrics offer speed, precision, and bold styling.

And when it comes to purchasing an amp to go with your shiny new electric guitar, there are tons of options. Yes, some amps cost thousands and thousands of dollars, but there are plenty of beginner options that’ll let you experiment with tones and get comfortable playing without depleting your savings account. 

The best amp choice for beginners would be a low-wattage amp with onboard tone control. That means you can learn about tone controls without needing to buy expensive pedals. The Boss Katana is a great option that comes in under $300. 

Guitar headphone amps are also a great alternative to “real” guitar amplifiers. They’re small, quiet, and cheap, which is perfect for practicing beginners — just don’t expect to play any stadium shows with them… 

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Guitar

Choosing between an acoustic or electric guitar involves more than just personal preference. Factors like budget, musical goals, and playing environment can all influence your decision.

Budget

Acoustic guitars are often more budget-friendly because they don’t require additional equipment like amplifiers or cables. However, investing in a quality instrument is crucial for both acoustics and electrics, as it can significantly affect your playing experience and sound.

Musical Goals

Think about the music you want to play. If you’re drawn to singer-songwriter styles, folk, or unplugged performances, an acoustic guitar is a natural choice. If your interests lean toward rock, blues, metal, or experimenting with effects, an electric guitar is better suited to your goals.

Portability

Acoustic guitars win in terms of portability, as they don’t require any external gear to play. This makes them a great option for travel, outdoor performances, or casual jam sessions. Electric guitars, while versatile, need amps and cables, which can add to the bulk when moving between locations.

Environment

Consider where you’ll be playing most often. Acoustic guitars are perfect for quiet environments or small gatherings, while electric guitars thrive in settings where amplification is possible.

Find Your Perfect Acoustic or Electric Guitar at AMS

Whether you’re captivated by the natural resonance of an acoustic or the limitless versatility of an electric, finding the right guitar is the first step in your musical journey. At American Musical Supply, we offer unmatched selection, whether you want an acoustic or electric guitar, from trusted brands like Taylor, Fender, and Gibson, all backed by flexible payment plans, fast shipping, and expert support. 

You can also call our friendly customer service representatives at 800-458-4076. They’re all experienced musicians and will be able to point you in the right direction for your guitar needs. 

Shop now to find your perfect guitar and start making music today!

Difference between electric and acoustic guitarDifference between electric and acoustic guitar

FAQ: Acoustic vs. Electric Guitars

When deciding between an acoustic or electric guitar, it’s natural to have questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common inquiries to help you make the best choice for your musical journey.

Can I play the same songs on acoustic and electric guitars?

Yes, most songs can be played on either type of guitar, though the tone and feel may differ. Acoustic guitars provide a warm, natural sound that’s great for unplugged performances, while electric guitars let you explore effects and amplified tones for a more dynamic rendition.

Do I need an amplifier to play an electric guitar?

Yes, an amplifier is essential for getting the full sound out of an electric guitar. Without an amp, the guitar produces only an unamplified sound that doesn't carry very well at all. Beginners may want to consider a starter pack that includes a small practice amp for convenience. Headphone amps are also a great alternative to traditional amplifiers that are smaller, quieter, and less expensive. 

Are electric guitars harder to maintain than acoustic guitars?

Both require about the same amount of maintenance. Electric guitars have more components, which means more things can go wrong. But at the same time, the wood of an acoustic guitar requires more consistent temperature and humidity to avoid warping or cracking, which isn’t always easy to maintain. 

What’s the best guitar for small hands?

Electric guitars often work better for players with small hands due to their slimmer necks and lighter strings. However, some acoustic models, like smaller body styles or travel guitars, are also designed with compact dimensions that make them comfortable to play.

Can I use nylon strings on an acoustic guitar meant for steel strings?

It’s not recommended. Acoustic guitars built for steel strings are designed to handle higher string tension, and switching to nylon strings can impact tone and playability. If you prefer nylon strings, look for a classical guitar, which is specifically designed for them.

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