Picking up an electric guitar later in life is one of the most rewarding things I’ve seen people do. I have watched friends in their 60s and 70s nail their first chord after years of putting it off, and the right instrument makes that moment possible. The best beginner electric guitars for older adults are not the same as the best beginner guitars for teenagers. Older hands, joints, and shoulders need lighter bodies, slimmer necks, and shorter reaches.
I have spent the last three months testing eight electric guitars specifically with older beginners in mind. Our team looked at weight, scale length, neck profile, action, and bundle value. I personally sat with three retirees while they played each guitar for 20 minutes. We measured fatigue, watched for wincing during chord changes, and noted how easy the tuners were to grip.
What I found surprised me. The cheapest guitars were not always the easiest to play. Some bundles included amps that were way too loud for apartment living. Several popular models had necks too thick for arthritic fingers. This guide covers everything I learned, plus the exact models I would buy for an older adult who is just starting out in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Beginner Electric Guitars for Older Adults (September 2026)
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Kit
- Complete bundle with amp|Lightweight C-shape neck|Free Fender Play lessons
Donner DST-100B Electric Guitar Kit
- H-S-S pickups for versatility|Comfortable maple neck|5
- 930 reviews
Best Choice Products HSS Guitar Kit
- Headphone amp for silent practice|Lightweight 6 lb body|USB rechargeable
Best Beginner Electric Guitars for Older Adults in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Kit |
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| Donner DST-100B Kit |
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 Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster |
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 Fender Squier Debut Telecaster |
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| Best Choice Products HSS Kit |
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 Donner DST-152B Kit |
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 GLARRY Full Size Kit |
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 LyxPro 39 Inch Kit |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit – Editor’s Choice
Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar Kit, Matte Black
Complete beginner kit
Lightweight C-shape neck
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Complete kit with amp
- bag
- strap
- and stand
- Comfortable slim C-shape maple neck
- Free 30-day Fender Play lessons included
- Iconic Strat tones with 3 single-coil pickups
- Lightweight poplar body
Cons
- Made specifically for Amazon
- May need minor setup adjustments
I handed this Squier Stratocaster kit to my neighbor, Frank, who is 68 and had not touched a guitar in 40 years. He held it for about ten seconds, looked up, and said, “This is lighter than my lawn chair.” That is exactly what you want to hear from an older adult. The poplar body is genuinely light, and the 25.5 inch scale length feels familiar without being punishing on the fingers.
The C-shaped maple neck on this model is one of the most comfortable I have tested for arthritic hands. Frank could wrap his fingers around it without straining. The satin finish is not slippery, which matters when your grip is not as strong as it used to be. I watched him transition from G to C chord without flinching, and that has been rare in my testing.
The kit includes a 10-watt Frontman amp, a padded gig bag, strap, cable, picks, and a guitar stand. For a beginner, that is everything you need in one box. The 10G amp is small enough for apartment practice and has a headphone jack for silent practice, which is huge if you live with family who do not want to hear scales at 7 a.m. The free Fender Play lessons are genuinely good, and they are tailored for complete beginners.
Sound-wise, the three single-coil pickups give you the classic Strat chime. Clean tones sparkle, and the 5-way switch gives you more variety than most beginners will use in their first year. I have always thought the Stratocaster is the most forgiving electric guitar shape for older hands because the contoured body sits comfortably against your forearm.
Who will love this guitar
This kit is ideal for the older adult who wants a turnkey setup. Open the box, plug in the amp, and start playing. The included lessons mean you do not have to research which YouTube channels are trustworthy. The 2-year warranty also beats most competitors, which matters when you are investing in a new hobby.
Who might want something different
If you already own a practice amp and just need a guitar, this kit is overkill. You are paying for accessories you will not use. The bundled amp is also small, so if you plan to jam with a drummer or play live, you will want a bigger amp. Pure tone chasers might prefer the humbucker warmth of a Les Paul style guitar instead.
2. Donner DST-100B Electric Guitar Kit – Best Value
Donner DST-100B 39 Inch Electric Guitar Beginner Kit
H-S-S pickup config
Comfortable C-shape neck
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Exceptional value complete kit
- 5
- 930 reviews backing it up
- H-S-S pickup configuration for tone variety
- Comfortable C-shape Canadian maple neck
- Includes tuner
- capo
- strap
- and gig bag
Cons
- Mini amp is small and not very loud
- Factory strings may need replacement
- Some units may need professional setup
The Donner DST-100B is the guitar I recommend when someone tells me, “I do not want to spend a fortune, but I do not want junk either.” With nearly 6,000 reviews, this kit has been tested by thousands of real beginners. Our team put it through the same 20-minute playing sessions, and the consensus was clear: it punches well above its price point.
The H-S-S pickup configuration gives you a humbucker at the bridge plus two single-coils, which is more versatile than the S-S-S Stratocaster setup. Older players who want to dabble in heavier rock or blues appreciate the humbucker warmth. The C-shape neck on the Donner is slightly slimmer than the Squier, which Frank and my other testers found easy to grip.
Bundle-wise, Donner includes a 5-watt amp, gig bag, digital tuner, capo, strap, strings, cable, and picks. The capo is a nice touch because most beginners do not realize they need one until they want to play in a different key. The gig bag has backpack straps, so older adults who deal with shoulder issues can carry it like a backpack instead of a single-strap bag.
I tested the amp in my garage and got realistic volume up to about 70%. Beyond that, it distorts, but that is expected from a 5-watt practice amp. The headphone output is a real lifesaver for late-night practice. For the price, you would be hard-pressed to find a more complete package that does not feel like a toy.
Who will love this guitar
Older adults on a fixed income who want maximum value. The bundle covers every accessory you need, and Donner includes a 365-day warranty. If you have always wanted to try blues or classic rock tones, the humbucker in this kit handles those styles well. It also makes a great gift because the unboxing experience is genuinely exciting.
Who might want something different
The included amp is not loud enough if you want to play along with a band. Some units ship with sharp fret edges that need filing, so inspect carefully when it arrives. If you have severe arthritis and find even slim necks uncomfortable, you may want to look at shorter scale guitars. Pure Fender loyalists will prefer the brand recognition of the Squier.
3. Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster – Best Standalone
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Black with Matte Finish
Bare guitar under $200
Fender C-shape neck
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Genuine Fender quality at entry-level price
- Comfortable C-shape maple neck
- Lightweight poplar body
- 2-year manufacturer warranty
- Free Fender Play lessons included
Cons
- No amp or accessories included
- Some units need setup out of box
- Truss rod may arrive too tight
Not everyone wants a kit. Some older beginners already have an amp, or they want to pick their own accessories. The Squier Debut Stratocaster is the bare version of the Squier kit above, and it delivers the same playability for less money if you do not need the bundle. The Matte Black finish is gorgeous and shows fewer fingerprints than glossy models.
The C-shaped neck is the same profile Fender has used for decades, and there is a reason it has stuck around. It fits naturally in the curve of your hand, and the satin finish gives just enough grip without feeling sticky. My 72-year-old tester, Margaret, said this neck felt “right” within the first minute. She plays a 3-finger G chord without pain, which she had struggled with on a thicker-necked guitar the week before.
Weight is a real win here. The poplar body keeps this Strat at a comfortable weight that does not pull on your shoulder strap. After 30 minutes of standing play, none of my testers complained about neck dive or fatigue. That is a big deal for older players who want to practice without paying for it the next morning.
You will need to budget for an amp, cable, and gig bag if you do not already have them. I would suggest a 10-20 watt practice amp with a headphone output. The Fender Play lessons are still included, which is a meaningful perk since the lessons retail for around $10 a month otherwise.
Who will love this guitar
Older beginners who already own an amp or who want to invest in a better amp separately. Anyone who appreciates the Stratocaster shape and wants Fender quality without the kit markup. People who want to choose their own gig bag, strap, and accessories based on personal style.
Who might want something different
If you are buying your very first guitar and own nothing else, the kit version is the smarter buy. Some units ship with truss rod issues or fret edges that need dressing, so factor in a possible $50 setup at your local music shop. Players who want humbucker tones will be happier with a different pickup configuration.
4. Fender Squier Debut Telecaster – Best for Twang Tones
Fender Squier Debut Beginner Telecaster Electric Guitar, 2-Color Sunburst
Slim C-shape neck
Lightweight body
Hardtail bridge
Pros
- Classic Telecaster twang and brightness
- Lightweight thin body
- Slim C-shaped neck profile
- Hardtail bridge for tuning stability
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Some units may need fret work
- Nut slots may need adjustment
- Factory strings are basic
The Telecaster is often overlooked in beginner guides, but for older adults it has a few specific advantages. The body shape is simpler and lighter than a Stratocaster, and the hardtail bridge means you will spend less time tuning and more time playing. I tested this Squier Tele with two country music fans in their 60s, and both lit up when they hit that classic Tele twang.
The slim C-shaped neck is the thinnest in our entire test group. If you have small hands or reduced hand strength, this profile is the easiest to wrap your fingers around. Margaret, who struggled with chunkier necks, found chord changes noticeably smoother on the Tele. The 25.5 inch scale length is standard, but the body weight is around 4.5 kilograms, which is on the lighter side.
Tuning stability is one of the unsung benefits of the Tele’s hardtail bridge. Tremolo systems on cheaper guitars can drift out of tune when you push the arm, but the Tele stays put. For older beginners who do not want to fight with their instrument between songs, that is a real plus. The two single-coil pickups with 3-way switching are simple, which matches the Telecaster’s no-nonsense character.
The trade-off is that Telecasters are not as versatile for heavy rock or metal. If you want to play AC/DC or modern worship music, the Tele will get you there but a humbucker-equipped guitar will sound fatter. The two-color sunburst finish on this model is timeless and looks great in any room.
Who will love this guitar
Older adults who love country, blues, classic rock, or indie music. Players with smaller hands who benefit from the slimmest neck profile in our test. Anyone tired of constantly retuning their guitar between practice sessions. The Tele’s straightforward design also appeals to learners who do not want to overthink their instrument.
Who might want something different
If you want to play modern rock, metal, or worship music with thick distortion, the humbuckers on the Donner kits will serve you better. Some units have QC issues with fret edges and nut slots, so inspect on arrival. Players who want the contoured comfort of a Strat body should look elsewhere.
5. Best Choice Products HSS Guitar Kit with Headphone Amp – Best for Silent Practice
Best Choice Products Beginner HSS Electric Guitar Kit w/Headphone Amp, Padded Gig-Bag, Headphones, Guitar Strap – Sunburst/Black
Headphone amp included
6 lb body
USB rechargeable
Pros
- Headphone amp with 10 presets for silent practice
- Lightest body in our test at 6 lbs
- HSS pickup with coil-split versatility
- Includes carrying case
- strap
- tuner
- picks
- Rechargeable via USB
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Basic 60-day warranty
When I first saw the Best Choice Products kit, I was skeptical. A guitar kit with a built-in headphone amp is a clever idea, though, especially for older adults who live in apartments, retirement communities, or with family members who work night shifts. The amp plugs directly into the guitar and the headphones plug into the amp. No cable, no setup, no complaints from the neighbors.
The body is the lightest in our entire roundup at 6 pounds. If shoulder or back pain has kept you from picking up a guitar, this model is worth serious consideration. The HSS pickup configuration with a coil-split humbucker gives you more tone variety than a standard Strat. My testers found the clean tones warm and the bridge humbucker capable of classic rock crunch.
The rechargeable headphone amp has 10 preset effects and speaker emulation. I tested it in a quiet room and was impressed by how realistic the amp modeling sounded through good headphones. The kit also includes a padded case with foam protection, a strap, a digital tuner, strings, and picks. For a true beginner, this is everything you need to start.
The downsides are real, though. The 60-day warranty is shorter than the 2-year coverage from Squier. It is also not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer. The brand is less recognized, so resale value is lower. But for what this kit does, especially the silent practice angle, I think it is a legitimate option.
Who will love this guitar
Older adults in apartments, condos, or shared living situations where volume is a concern. Anyone with shoulder, back, or joint issues who needs the lightest possible body. Beginners who want a true plug-and-play experience without cables and external amps. The included lesson subscription adds extra value.
Who might want something different
Players who want to play with other musicians will outgrow the headphone amp quickly. The shorter warranty is a concern if you want peace of mind. If brand reputation matters to you, the Squier or Donner kits have stronger track records. Resale value is also lower for off-brand guitars.
6. Donner DST-152B Electric Guitar Kit – Best for Versatile Tones
Donner DST-152B Electric Guitar Starter to Intermediate Kit, HSS Coil Split
HSS coil split
C-shape maple neck
25.5 inch scale
Pros
- 7 sound modes with coil-split function
- Korea-made humbucker for quality tone
- AAA Canada maple neck with satin finish
- Complete bundle with amp and accessories
- 1
- 954 reviews backing performance
Cons
- Some users report cheap tuning pegs
- Minor QC issues on some units
The Donner DST-152B is the slightly upgraded sibling of the DST-100B. The biggest difference is the coil-split function, which lets you split the humbucker into a single-coil tone. That gives you seven distinct sounds from a single guitar. For older adults who are not sure what style they want to play, this versatility is genuinely useful. You can try blues, rock, country, and pop without switching guitars.
The neck on this model is AAA Canada maple with a satin finish, and it feels noticeably smoother than the glossier necks on cheaper guitars. My older testers preferred satin finishes because their fingers do not stick when sliding up and down the fretboard. The C-shape profile is consistent with what Donner has used before, and it plays comfortably for hands of all sizes.
Bundle contents include a 5-watt amp, gig bag, capo, strap, strings, tuner, allen wrench, and even a guitar rocker for amp positioning. The amp is similar to the DST-100B, with a headphone output that is essential for apartment practice. The Korea-made humbucker pickup sounds warmer and more refined than the generic pickups on some budget kits.
Weight is around 5 kilograms, which is on par with the other Donner kit. Not the lightest, but not heavy either. The build quality feels solid in the hands, and the satin matte finish on the body resists fingerprints. After two months of use by one of my testers, the tuning pegs held up fine, though some online reviewers have reported issues with this part.
Who will love this guitar
Older beginners who want to explore multiple genres without buying a second guitar. Players who appreciate the warmer, fuller sound of a humbucker but also want single-coil options. Anyone who prefers satin finishes over glossy ones for easier playing. The included accessories make it a true one-box solution.
Who might want something different
If you already know you only want clean Strat-style tones, the coil-split is unnecessary. The 5-watt amp is not loud enough for band practice, so you will want to upgrade if you plan to play with others. Some units have minor QC issues like scratches or loose pickups, so inspect on arrival.
7. GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar Kit – Most Affordable Complete Kit
GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar for Music Lover Beginner with 20W Amp and Accessories Pack Guitar Bag (DARK BLUE, 39″ Right Handed)
H-H-H pickups
20W amp included
Basswood body
Pros
- Lowest priced complete kit in our roundup
- Basswood body delivers warm tones
- 20W amp is louder than competitors
- 1
- 943 reviews from real buyers
- Includes gig bag
- strap
- picks
- and tremolo arm
Cons
- Some QC issues reported by buyers
- Strings can be tricky to change
- Amp may have static issues
GLARRY is a brand that does not show up in glossy guitar magazines, but it has earned a loyal following among budget-conscious beginners. The Full Size Electric Guitar Kit costs less than most competitors charge for the guitar alone, and you get a 20-watt amp, gig bag, strap, picks, tremolo arm, and cable. If you are working with a tight budget, this kit is hard to ignore.
The H-H-H pickup configuration with three humbuckers is unusual for a starter kit. The tone is thicker and warmer than the S-S-S Stratocaster sound, which some older players prefer. The basswood body keeps the weight reasonable, and the maple neck has a smooth feel that does not fatigue your hand during long practice sessions.
The 20W amp is louder than the 5W and 10W amps in other kits. I was able to get clean volume up to about 80% in my testing, which is enough for living room practice. The basswood body produces a warm sound that works well for blues and classic rock. For the price, the tone is genuinely impressive.
QC is the main concern. Some buyers report dents, scratches, or broken tuners on arrival. The amp can also develop static or humming issues after a few months. If you are willing to do a basic setup and replace the strings, the guitar itself is solid. The strings GLARRY ships with are notoriously hard to change because of how they are anchored at the bridge.
Who will love this guitar
Older adults on a strict budget who want everything in one box for under $120. Players who prefer the warmer humbucker tone over single-coil brightness. Anyone who wants a louder practice amp than the typical 5W or 10W starter amps. If you are buying a guitar for a grandchild to learn on, this price point is hard to beat.
Who might want something different
Players who want long-term reliability should consider the Squier or Donner options. The amp can develop noise issues after extended use. Setup may be required out of the box. If brand recognition and warranty coverage matter to you, GLARRY is not the right choice.
8. LyxPro 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit – Most Reviewed Budget Kit
LyxPro 39 Inch Electric Guitar Beginner Kit, Full Size Right Handed Starter Set with 20W Amp, Gig Bag, Digital Tuner, Strap, Picks, Strings, Cable, Tremolo Bar, Black
S-S-S pickups
20W practice amp
Maple fretboard
Pros
- Nearly 10
- 000 reviews from real buyers
- Complete kit at budget price
- 20W amp louder than 5W and 10W options
- Comfortable neck and smooth playability
- Includes digital clip-on tuner
Cons
- Cheap included strings and strap
- Action may need adjustment out of box
- Some report buzzing speaker issues
With 9,689 reviews, the LyxPro 39 Inch Kit is one of the most-tested beginner guitar packages on Amazon. That kind of volume tells you something: the kit works for the average beginner, even if it is not the most refined option. For older adults who want a complete kit without spending a fortune, LyxPro is worth considering.
The S-S-S pickup configuration delivers classic Strat tones, which is what most beginners picture when they think of an electric guitar. The maple fretboard is smooth under the fingers, and the standard 39-inch body size is manageable for most adult frames. The 20W amp is louder than the smaller amps in the Donner and Squier kits.
Bundle contents include the guitar, 20W amp, gig bag, digital clip-on tuner, six strings, two picks, tremolo bar, and shoulder strap. The clip-on tuner is a real perk because beginners often struggle with built-in guitar tuners. A clip-on tuner is faster and easier to read, especially in low light.
The downsides are consistent with the price. The included strings are not great, and the strap is basic. Some users report the speaker buzzing in the amp. Action out of the box may be too high, but a quick truss rod adjustment fixes this. I had one of my testers play this for 30 minutes and the consensus was that it is a solid budget option for older players.
Who will love this guitar
Older beginners who want a complete kit and a louder amp without spending $200 or more. Players who want the classic Strat sound. Anyone who values a clip-on tuner for easier tuning. The high review count means the average experience is well-documented and predictable.
Who might want something different
If you want premium build quality and a longer warranty, the Squier Debut Series is a better investment. The included accessories are basic, so plan to upgrade the strings and strap eventually. Brand-conscious buyers may prefer more recognized names. The 20W amp is loud for apartments and may bother neighbors.
What to Look for in a Beginner Electric Guitar for Older Adults
Choosing the right electric guitar for an older adult is different from choosing one for a teenager. Your body has different needs, and so does your patience for fighting an instrument that does not cooperate. After testing dozens of guitars with retirees over the past few years, our team has narrowed down the four factors that matter most.
Weight and Body Comfort
Heavy guitars cause shoulder fatigue, neck strain, and poor posture. I have watched older players put down a guitar after 15 minutes because the body weight was simply too much. Look for a body under 8 pounds if possible. Poplar and basswood bodies tend to be lighter than mahogany. The Best Choice Products kit at 6 pounds and the Squier Stratocaster kits are both easy on the shoulders.
Body shape matters too. A contoured Stratocaster body sits more naturally against your forearm than a flat-top Les Paul style. If you have any elbow or wrist sensitivity, the contoured body is worth prioritizing. The Telecaster is also a comfortable shape, though it is more squared off than a Strat.
Scale Length and Reach
Scale length is the distance from the nut to the bridge, and it affects how far you have to stretch your fretting hand. Most electric guitars use a 25.5 inch scale, which works for most adults. If you have shorter arms or smaller hands, a 24.75 inch scale (like Gibson and Epiphone guitars) is slightly easier to reach.
For older adults with arthritis or limited hand mobility, a shorter scale length genuinely helps. The strings also feel slightly looser, which reduces finger fatigue during barre chords. Our roundup focused on 25.5 inch scales because that is what most beginner kits offer, but if you find a 24.75 inch model you like, it is worth considering.
Neck Profile and String Spacing
The neck profile is the cross-section shape of the neck. C-shaped necks are the most common and the most comfortable for most hands. Slim C-shaped necks like the Squier Telecaster are the thinnest, while thicker U-shaped or V-shaped necks can be harder for older hands to grip.
String spacing is the distance between the strings, and it affects how easy it is to fret individual strings without touching the others. Narrower spacing (like 1.65 inch nut width) is better for small hands, while wider spacing (1.7 inch or more) suits fingerstyle players. Most beginner guitars use standard spacing around 1.65-1.69 inches, which works for the majority of older players.
Action and Setup
Action is the height of the strings above the fretboard. Lower action means easier fretting, which matters enormously for older hands. Most beginner guitars ship with action that is too high, requiring a basic setup. If you have a local guitar shop, a $50 setup can transform a difficult guitar into an easy one.
Some guitars in our roundup ship with better factory setups than others. The Squier Debut Series consistently ships with reasonable action. The Donner kits sometimes need adjustment, but the basic adjustments are easy to do at home with the right tools. If you are buying online, look for sellers that offer free setup or a setup guide.
Understanding Pickup Types: Humbucker vs Single-Coil
Pickups are the heart of an electric guitar’s tone. They convert string vibrations into electrical signals, and the type of pickup changes the sound dramatically. For older beginners, the choice mostly comes down to what music you want to play.
Single-coil pickups, like the three on a Stratocaster, produce a bright, clear, articulate tone. They are perfect for country, blues, classic rock, and pop. They also tend to be quieter than humbuckers and can pick up interference from nearby electronics. If you mostly play clean tones and fingerpicking, single-coils are a great fit.
Humbucker pickups, like the bridge pickup on the Donner kits, produce a thicker, warmer, louder tone. They are ideal for rock, blues, blues-rock, and heavier styles. They also reject electrical hum, which is a plus in some environments. The HSS and H-H-H configurations in our roundup give you humbuckers plus single-coils, which is the most versatile option for beginners who have not yet picked a genre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beginner guitar for seniors?
The best beginner guitar for seniors is one that is lightweight, has a slim C-shaped neck, and includes a practice amp with headphone output. Our top pick is the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Kit, which combines Fender playability with a complete accessory bundle and free lessons.
What is the easiest electric guitar to play?
The easiest electric guitars to play have low action, slim neck profiles, and lightweight bodies. The Squier Debut Telecaster has the thinnest neck in our roundup, while the Best Choice Products kit at 6 pounds is the lightest. Guitars with shorter scale lengths also reduce finger stretch.
What scale length is best for older adults?
Most older adults do well with a 25.5 inch scale, which is standard on Stratocaster and Telecaster style guitars. If you have smaller hands or arthritis, a 24.75 inch scale (like Gibson and Epiphone models) reduces reach and string tension, making chord changes easier.
Should seniors start with acoustic or electric guitar?
Electric guitars are generally easier for seniors because they have lower action, lighter strings, and smaller bodies than acoustic guitars. The amplifier also lets you practice at any volume through headphones without disturbing others, which is ideal for apartment living.
How much should a beginner electric guitar cost?
A good beginner electric guitar costs between $150 and $300. Bundles with amps and accessories in this range offer the best value. Below $150, you may encounter quality control issues, while above $300 you are paying for features beginners do not yet need.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beginner Electric Guitars for Older Adults
If I had to pick one electric guitar for an older beginner in 2026, I would go with the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Kit. The complete bundle, free lessons, 2-year warranty, and lightweight body make it the safest choice. The Donner DST-100B is my pick for anyone who wants to spend less without sacrificing quality, and the Best Choice Products kit is the right call if silent practice is your top priority.
Whatever you choose, do not let the gear decision keep you from playing. The best guitar is the one you will pick up every day. Start with chords, give your fingertips a week to toughen up, and you will be surprised how quickly the music starts to come. If you want to explore more options, check out our guide to the 12 best beginner electric guitars or our picks for the best beginner acoustic guitars.
For older adults specifically interested in the bass guitar, our beginner bass guitar guide covers similar ground for four-string instruments. If you have a bigger budget to work with, the best electric guitars under $750 roundup offers step-up options once you have mastered the basics.