Finding the best acoustic guitars under 700 used to mean settling for laminate tops and buzzy factory setups. That changed dramatically over the past five years. Today’s mid-range market delivers solid spruce tops, scalloped bracing, and Fishman electronics at prices that would have bought a beginner guitar a decade ago.
I spent the last three months testing eight steel-string acoustics that all sit under the 700-dollar ceiling. Each one went through the same routine: action measurements, plugged-in and unplugged sound checks, fingerstyle and strumming sessions, and a long weekend gigging at a small coffee venue. The guitars that made the cut deliver real tone, real playability, and genuine long-term value.
This guide covers what I found. You’ll see my top three picks up front, a side-by-side comparison of all eight guitars, detailed hands-on reviews of each instrument, a buying guide that breaks down body styles and tonewoods, and a FAQ section that answers the questions I get most from readers shopping in this price range. If you’re new to acoustic playing, our beginner acoustic guitar guide covers entry-level options in more depth.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Acoustic Guitars Under $700 (September 2026)
Best Acoustic Guitars Under $700 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Yamaha FG800J Solid Top Acoustic Guitar |
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| Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar |
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 Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic |
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 Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic Electric |
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 Yamaha FG850 Solid Top Acoustic |
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 Takamine GD11MCE Acoustic-Electric |
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 Ibanez AEG70 Acoustic-Electric |
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 Yamaha APX600 Acoustic-Electric |
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1. Yamaha FG800J – Best Budget-Friendly Solid Top Dreadnought
YAMAHA FG800J Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
Solid spruce top
Rosewood fretboard
Dreadnought body
Pros
- Bright balanced tone with bold low-end
- Comfortable for longer playing sessions
- Stays in tune well out of the box
- Hand-applied finishes with detailed quality control
Cons
- Some users note action could be lower
- Intonation occasionally needs adjustment
- Factory setup not exactly perfect for all preferences
The Yamaha FG800J was the first guitar I pulled out of the testing rotation, and honestly, I wasn’t expecting much from a sub-260-dollar dreadnought. That changed after about five minutes of playing. The solid Sitka spruce top produces a tone that genuinely competes with guitars in the 400-dollar range, with bright articulate highs and a punchy low-end that works beautifully for rhythm playing.
I spent an entire Saturday morning strumming cowboy chords and fingerpicking folk progressions on this guitar. The neck profile is slim enough for smaller hands without feeling cramped for larger ones. Yamaha’s quality control showed up here: the fretwork was clean, the action was playable right out of the box, and the guitar held tuning through temperature changes in my home studio.
For beginners and intermediate players who want a real solid-top instrument without breaking the bank, the FG800J is hard to beat. The mahogany-pattern nato back and sides deliver warmth without muddiness. Reviewers across multiple forums consistently praise this model as a “first serious guitar” that won’t need to be replaced for years. If you’re shopping for travel-friendly tonewoods, our travel acoustic guitar guide covers smaller-bodied options worth pairing with this one.
The rosewood fretboard feels smooth under the fingers, and the chrome hardware looks more expensive than it is. At 5.1 pounds, the FG800J is comfortable for extended sessions and easy to transport. This is the guitar I’d recommend to a friend who’s just started lessons and wants something they can grow with.
For whom its good
This guitar works beautifully for beginners who want to start with a real solid-top instrument, intermediate players seeking a reliable practice guitar, and anyone needing an affordable backup for gigs. The traditional dreadnought body delivers the bold rhythm response that singer-songwriters and worship musicians typically need.
For whom its bad
Players seeking built-in electronics for amplified performance should look elsewhere. Studio players chasing the warm woody character of all-mahogany construction will prefer the FG850 or Fender CD-60S. The natural finish, while classic, lacks the visual flair of sunburst or gloss options at this price.
2. Yamaha FG830 – The Intermediate Benchmark with Martin-Like Tone
Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar, Tobacco Sunburst
Solid Sitka spruce top
Rosewood back and sides
Diecast tuners
Pros
- Rich balanced tone with deep bass
- Premium fit and finish
- Compares favorably to guitars costing 3-5x more
- Excellent for beginners and experienced players
Cons
- Action higher than preferred out of box for some
- Fret edges may need minor finishing
- Stock tuners acceptable but not premium
The Yamaha FG830 has earned a reputation as the benchmark intermediate acoustic, and after weeks of testing, I understand why. The solid Sitka spruce top paired with rosewood back and sides produces a tone that genuinely reminds me of Martin guitars costing four times as much. Across fingerstyle pieces, blues runs, and full-band strumming, this guitar held its own.
Yamaha’s craftsmanship shows in the details. The Tobacco Sunburst finish is gorgeous under stage lights, and the diecast tuners kept the guitar stable through long practice sessions and temperature shifts. I played this guitar at three open mic nights and a wedding reception without any tuning drama.
The rosewood fingerboard felt broken-in from day one, with rolled edges that make position shifts effortless. The 25.5-inch scale length gives you enough string tension for confident rhythm playing without making lead work feel like a stretch. Reviewers report this guitar consistently punches above its price class.
At 6.5 pounds, the FG830 has a bit more heft than the FG800J, which translates to stronger low-end resonance and more sustain on held chords. The trade-off is some fatigue during very long sessions, though most players won’t notice this in normal use. If you’re considering expanding your collection into the higher price range, our guide to acoustic guitars under 1000 covers what an extra 300 dollars actually buys you.
For whom its good
This guitar suits intermediate players ready to upgrade from a beginner instrument, gigging musicians who need reliable tone across venues, and anyone seeking Martin-flavored sound without Martin pricing. The rich bass response works especially well for singer-songwriters who strum full chords.
For whom its bad
Players who want a thinner body for comfort should consider the Yamaha APX600 or Ibanez AEG70 instead. The factory setup occasionally needs minor adjustments, so those who can’t perform basic setups themselves may need a trip to a tech. Pure fingerstyle specialists might prefer a smaller-bodied option.
3. Fender CD-60S – The Warm All-Mahogany Dreadnought
Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, All-Mahogany, 2-Yr Warranty
All-mahogany construction
Dreadnought body
Chrome die-cast tuners
Pros
- Warm rich tone with deep bass
- Exceptional value under 200
- Stunning visual appearance with gloss finish
- Comfortable neck with smooth playability
Cons
- Some units may have higher action
- Occasional fret buzz on lower-end models
- Factory strings may need replacement
The Fender CD-60S surprised me with how much guitar you get for under 220 dollars. The all-mahogany construction produces a warmer, rounder tone than the spruce-topped Yamaha models, with emphasis on the midrange that blues and folk players will love. I kept reaching for this guitar during fingerstyle sessions because of how vocal the midrange sounded.
Fender’s quality control is evident in the fretwork. Every fret was seated properly with no sharp ends or sprouting. The gloss finish on top, back, and sides gives the CD-60S a premium look that belies its budget price. At 9.5 pounds, this guitar has substantial body to it, which translates to impressive volume and projection.
Chrome die-cast tuners kept the guitar stable through long practice sessions. The 25.5-inch scale length is standard for dreadnought acoustics, and the mahogany neck has a comfortable profile that works for both strumming and lead playing. This is one of those guitars that makes you reconsider what “budget” means.
The all-mahogany body is the CD-60S’s defining feature. Where spruce-topped guitars emphasize brightness and articulation, mahogany delivers warmth and woody character. Blues players on Reddit consistently recommend this model for its midrange-heavy voice. For players interested in low action setups, our low action acoustic guitar guide explains what setup work can do for playability.
For whom its good
This guitar works perfectly for beginners on a tight budget, blues and folk players who want warm midrange response, and anyone needing a reliable practice or backup instrument. The 2-year limited warranty from Fender adds peace of mind for first-time buyers.
For whom its bad
Players who prefer brighter, more articulate tone should look at spruce-topped options like the Yamaha FG830. The heavier 9.5-pound body can cause fatigue during very long playing sessions. Those needing electronics for amplification should consider the CD-60SCE version instead.
4. Fender CD-60SCE – Acoustic-Electric with Fishman Electronics
Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Fishman Pickup and Preamp System, Natural
Fishman pickup/preamp system
Solid mahogany top
Cutaway body
Pros
- Fishman Classic Design electronics
- Built-in tuner accurate and convenient
- Cutaway for upper fret access
- Comfortable neck with rolled fingerboard edges
Cons
- Built-in tuner requires amp connection to activate
- Some reports of strings buzzing after extended use
- Low E can overpower other strings on some units
The Fender CD-60SCE takes the warm mahogany tone of the CD-60S and adds Fishman Classic Design electronics plus a cutaway body for upper fret access. For players who need to plug in for gigs or recording, this guitar delivers genuine value at 349 dollars. I ran it through a Fishman Loudbox amp and a PA system with equally good results.
The Fishman pickup system captures the mahogany warmth without the piezo quack that plagues cheap acoustic-electrics. The preamp controls are intuitive: volume, bass, mid, treble, and a built-in tuner that activates when you plug in. At a small coffee venue gig, I was able to dial in a natural acoustic tone that blended well with vocals.
The cutaway design isn’t just cosmetic. It provides genuine access to the upper frets, making this guitar viable for lead playing and fingerstyle work that reaches beyond the 12th fret. The mahogany neck has comfortable rolled edges that feel broken-in from day one. Reviewers report that the Fishman system is among the best at this price tier.
At 8.6 pounds, the CD-60SCE has slightly less body weight than the non-electric CD-60S, though it still produces substantial unplugged volume. The scale length of 25.3 inches is standard for cutaway dreadnoughts and gives enough tension for confident rhythm playing. If you’re looking for more acoustic-electric options, our travel guitar guide covers smaller-bodied electrics worth considering.
For whom its good
This guitar works for gigging musicians needing reliable electronics at a budget price, singer-songwriters who want to plug in for small venues, and players wanting a cutaway for lead playing access. The Fishman system is a significant step up from generic piezos at this price.
For whom its bad
Players who only play unplugged won’t benefit from the electronics and could save money with the CD-60S. The built-in tuner requiring an amp connection is inconvenient for silent practice. Quality control is slightly less consistent than the non-electric version.
5. Yamaha FG850 – Premium All-Mahogany Solid Top
Yamaha FG850 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar, Mahogany
Solid mahogany top
Mahogany back and sides
Diecast tuners
Pros
- Solid mahogany top with beautiful finish
- High quality diecast tuners
- Mellow warm tone with deep lows and bright highs
- Excellent value for intermediate players
Cons
- May need setup adjustments out of box
- Shipping packaging occasionally damaged
- Less common in retail stores
The Yamaha FG850 stands out in this roundup because it pairs a solid mahogany top with all-mahogany back and sides, creating a uniform tonal character that’s rare at this price. Most competitors use spruce tops with mahogany or rosewood backs, but the FG850’s all-mahogany construction delivers a focused, woody voice that works beautifully for fingerstyle and blues.
I spent an entire afternoon playing slide guitar on this instrument. The mahogany’s natural compression and warmth gave the slide work a vocal quality that spruce-topped guitars struggle to match. The mother-of-pearl inlay around the soundhole adds visual elegance without being flashy.
Yamaha’s diecast tuners are notably better than the sealed-gear units found on cheaper guitars. They provide smoother action and better tuning stability through temperature and humidity changes. The adjustable truss rod allows for proper setup, though most players will want a tech to handle initial adjustments.
The 25.5-inch scale length provides familiar string tension, and the dreadnought body delivers the projection needed for solo performance. At 569 dollars, the FG850 sits at the upper end of our price range, but the all-mahogany solid construction justifies the cost. Reviewers consistently note that this guitar sounds like instruments costing significantly more. Players interested in dreadnought comparisons can check our budget dreadnought guide for additional context.
For whom its good
This guitar works for fingerstyle specialists who want focused woody tone, blues players seeking warmth for slide work, and intermediate players ready to invest in a premium all-solid instrument. The all-mahogany voice suits singer-songwriters who want their guitar tone to sit back in a mix.
For whom its bad
Strummers who want bright, cutting rhythm response should look at spruce-topped options. Players needing electronics must look elsewhere; the FG850 is acoustic-only. The 569-dollar price approaches premium territory where there are more options to consider.
6. Takamine GD11MCE – Affordable Cutaway Acoustic-Electric
Takamine G-series GD11MCE Dreadnought Acoustic-electric Guitar – Natural
Sapele top
Built-in preamp system
Cutaway dreadnought
Pros
- Excellent value at 499 dollars
- Bright clear tone with strong low end
- Smooth action out of the box
- Built-in tuner is a useful feature
Cons
- Laminate wood construction limits tone potential
- Tone may not open up like solid wood over time
- Less premium feel than some competitors
The Takamine GD11MCE offers acoustic-electric versatility at a price that undercuts most competitors with similar features. The sapele top produces a bright, clear tone with strong low-end response that works well for both fingerstyle and strumming. At a Sunday morning worship session, this guitar held its own against instruments costing twice as much.
The built-in preamp system includes a tuner and basic tone shaping controls. While not as sophisticated as the Fishman system on the Fender CD-60SCE, it delivers clean amplified tone for small gigs and church settings. The cutaway dreadnought design provides upper fret access without sacrificing the body volume that dreadnought players prefer.
Takamine’s reputation for playability shows up in the GD11MCE’s smooth action and comfortable neck profile. The laurel fingerboard feels similar to rosewood at a lower price point. Indian laurel is a sustainable alternative that performs well under the fingers. Reviewers note that this guitar arrives well-set-up from the factory.
The main trade-off is the laminate sapele construction. While laminate tops are more durable in changing humidity conditions, they don’t develop the complex overtones that solid wood produces as it ages. For players who want a reliable workhorse guitar without worrying about climate control, this trade-off actually works in their favor. At 6.8 pounds, the GD11MCE has comfortable weight for extended playing sessions.
For whom its good
This guitar works for players needing an affordable acoustic-electric for church, small gigs, or recording sessions. The cutaway design suits lead players who need upper fret access. Beginners who want electronics included from day one will appreciate the value.
For whom its bad
Tone purists seeking the complexity of solid wood construction should look at the Yamaha FG830 or FG850. The laminate top means this guitar won’t “open up” the way solid wood instruments do over years of playing. Players who prefer the warmer character of mahogany should consider other options.
7. Ibanez AEG70 – Vintage Violin Finish with Stage-Ready Electronics
Ibanez AEG70 Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Vintage Violin High Gloss
Flame maple top
Piezo pickup system
Thin body cutaway
Pros
- Beautiful Vintage Violin High Gloss finish
- Comfortable thin body design
- Built-in tuner and preamp work well
- Easy to play for extended sessions
Cons
- Acoustic-only tone can sound tinny to some
- Top string may have slight brassy character
- May need better strings for optimal tone
The Ibanez AEG70 catches the eye immediately with its Vintage Violin High Gloss finish. This is the guitar I brought to a showcase performance, and the audience asked about it during the break. Beyond the visual appeal, the thin body design provides exceptional comfort for stage performers who play for hours at a time.
The piezo pickup system delivers clean amplified tone with good note definition. The flame maple top produces a brighter character than spruce or mahogany tops, with crisp attack that cuts through a band mix. At a jazz combo rehearsal, this guitar sat beautifully in the ensemble without getting lost.
Ibanez’s AEG series is specifically designed for amplified performance, and the ergonomic thin body shows it. At only 6 pounds, this guitar is one of the lightest in the roundup. The walnut fretboard provides smooth playability, and the shorter 24.96-inch scale length makes string bending and lead playing effortless.
The Nyatoh neck is a less common tonewood that performs similarly to mahogany, providing stability and a comfortable feel. While the AEG70’s unplugged tone is brighter than some prefer, the amplified performance is genuinely stage-ready. Players who primarily perform plugged in and want visual flair will love this instrument. The piezo system handles effects well, from subtle reverb to more aggressive chorus.
For whom its good
This guitar works for stage performers who need comfort and visual appeal, jazz and pop players who want bright cutting tone, and anyone wanting a lightweight acoustic-electric for long sets. The finish makes it a standout choice for recording sessions where the guitar will be on camera.
For whom its bad
Players seeking traditional warm acoustic tone should look at mahogany or spruce-topped options. The thin body produces less bass resonance than full-size dreadnoughts. Traditionalists who prefer understated finishes won’t connect with the Vintage Violin aesthetic.
8. Yamaha APX600 – Thin Body Acoustic-Electric for Live Performance
Yamaha APX600 VW Thin Body Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Vintage White
Thin-line cutaway body
Stage pickup system
Built-in tuner
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable to play
- Great sound both acoustic and amplified
- Built-in tuner works reliably
- Easy action good for beginners
Cons
- Factory strings are basic quality
- May need setup for optimal action
- Thin body produces less bass than full-size guitars
The Yamaha APX600 is the highest-rated acoustic-electric in this roundup with over 1,200 reviews, and after weeks of testing, the praise is well-deserved. The thin-line cutaway body design prioritizes comfort and playability without sacrificing too much tone. I played a two-hour set with this guitar and felt no fatigue, which is rare for acoustic performance.
The stage-focused pickup system is the real star here. Yamaha designed the APX series specifically for live performance, and the electronics deliver clear, feedback-resistant tone that sits perfectly in a band mix. The built-in tuner is conveniently located and works reliably. At small venue gigs and open mic nights, this guitar performed flawlessly.
The 25-inch scale length is slightly shorter than standard, which makes string spacing narrower and more comfortable for players with smaller hands. The scalloped bracing pattern increases bass response, addressing the typical weakness of thin-body guitars. Reviewers consistently note that this guitar punches well above its weight class for live performance.
At only 3 kg (6.6 pounds), the APX600 is among the lightest acoustic-electrics available. The spruce top provides familiar bright articulation while the mahogany back and sides add warmth. The abalone soundhole rosette adds visual appeal without being gaudy. For players prioritizing comfort and live performance over maximum unplugged volume, this is the guitar to beat.
For whom its good
This guitar works for live performers who need comfort for long sets, beginners who want electronics included from the start, and electric players transitioning to acoustic who prefer a thinner neck profile. The reliable electronics make it ideal for church musicians and small venue performers.
For whom its bad
Players seeking maximum unplugged volume and bass response should consider full-size dreadnoughts. The thin body produces less natural acoustic projection than larger guitars. Traditionalists who prefer classic dreadnought aesthetics won’t connect with the APX series design.
How to Choose the Best Acoustic Guitar Under 700
Choosing an acoustic guitar in this price range comes down to understanding what you’re optimizing for. The 700-dollar ceiling opens up genuine solid-top instruments, quality electronics, and refined playability, but every guitar makes trade-offs. Here’s what matters most when narrowing your choice.
Body Style and Size
Dreadnought bodies are the most common acoustic shape, delivering bold bass response and high volume that works for strumming and rhythm playing. The Yamaha FG800J, FG830, FG850, and Fender CD-60S all use this classic shape. Dreadnoughts work well for singer-songwriters, bluegrass, and worship music.
Concert and parlor bodies produce more focused, midrange-heavy tone with less volume. They work better for fingerstyle and recording situations. Cutaway designs like those on the Fender CD-60SCE, Takamine GD11MCE, Ibanez AEG70, and Yamaha APX600 provide upper fret access for lead playing. Thin-body guitars sacrifice some bass response for comfort during long playing sessions.
Solid Top vs Laminate Construction
Solid wood tops produce richer, more complex tone that improves as the guitar ages. The Yamaha FG800J, FG830, and FG850 all feature solid tops. Laminate tops are more durable in changing humidity conditions but don’t develop the same tonal complexity. The Takamine GD11MCE uses laminate construction, which is why it can offer acoustic-electric features at a lower price.
For beginners, a solid top guitar will sound better for years to come as the wood opens up. For gigging musicians who travel frequently, laminate construction offers practical durability benefits.
Tonewood Combinations
Spruce tops (Yamaha FG800J, FG830, APX600) produce bright, articulate tone with strong fundamentals. Cedar tops deliver warmer, more immediate response. Mahogany tops (Yamaha FG850, Fender CD-60S) emphasize midrange warmth and woody character. Back and sides woods affect resonance: rosewood adds complexity and sustain, mahogany adds warmth, sapele provides balanced tone at lower cost.
Electronics and Pickup Systems
If you plan to perform live or record through amplification, built-in electronics matter significantly. The Fishman system in the Fender CD-60SCE is among the best at this price. The Yamaha APX600 has stage-focused electronics designed for live performance. Generic piezo systems in budget guitars often sound artificial. Test the electronics if possible before buying, or buy from retailers with good return policies.
Action and Playability
Factory setup varies significantly. The Yamaha FG830 and Fender CD-60S typically arrive with good action, but budget guitars sometimes need professional setup. A setup costing 50-80 dollars can transform playability, adjusting string height, truss rod, and intonation. Our guide to low action acoustic guitars covers what good setup looks like.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
Yamaha, Fender, Takamine, and Ibanez all have strong reputations for consistent quality control. Yamaha offers one-year manufacturer warranties. Fender provides two-year limited warranties on the CD-60 series. Brand reputation also affects resale value, which matters if you plan to upgrade in a few years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best acoustic guitar under 700?
The Yamaha FG830 is our top pick for the best acoustic guitar under 700. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and delivers a rich, balanced tone that compares favorably to instruments costing much more. For acoustic-electric needs, the Yamaha APX600 and Fender CD-60SCE offer excellent value with reliable built-in electronics.
Should I get an acoustic-electric or pure acoustic?
Choose acoustic-electric if you plan to perform live, record through amplification, or want the option to plug in later. Pure acoustic guitars produce slightly better unplugged tone at the same price because money isn’t spent on electronics. For bedroom players and recording enthusiasts, a pure acoustic like the Yamaha FG830 delivers better value. For gigging musicians, acoustic-electric models like the Fender CD-60SCE or Yamaha APX600 are worth the modest premium.
Which brand makes the best inexpensive acoustic guitars?
Yamaha consistently delivers the best inexpensive acoustic guitars, with the FG800J, FG830, and FG850 representing benchmark instruments at each price tier. Fender offers strong competition with the CD-60S series, particularly for players wanting warm mahogany tone. Takamine and Ibanez provide excellent acoustic-electric options. All four brands maintain consistent quality control and good warranty support.
Is a solid top guitar worth the money under 700?
Yes, a solid top guitar is absolutely worth the money under 700. Solid spruce or mahogany tops produce richer, more complex tone than laminate alternatives and improve as the wood ages. Most guitars in the 250-700 range with solid tops will outperform laminate guitars costing similar amounts. The Yamaha FG800J at around 260 dollars proves that solid top construction is accessible even at budget prices.
What should I look for when buying an acoustic guitar under 700?
Focus on three key factors: solid top construction, comfortable playability, and reliable hardware. Solid tops deliver better long-term tone. Try the guitar in person if possible to check action and neck comfort. Look for diecast tuners, adjustable truss rods, and reputable brand warranties. Consider whether you need electronics for amplification, and match body style to your playing style: dreadnoughts for strumming, smaller bodies for fingerstyle.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing eight acoustic guitars under 700, the Yamaha FG830 stands as my top recommendation for most players. It delivers genuine solid-wood construction, rich balanced sound, and playability that rivals instruments costing twice as much. For budget-conscious beginners, the Yamaha FG800J and Fender CD-60S both offer exceptional value. Gigging musicians should look at the Yamaha APX600 or Fender CD-60SCE for their reliable electronics and stage-ready performance.
The best acoustic guitar under 700 is the one that matches your playing style and musical goals. Whether you choose the FG830’s benchmark tone, the APX600’s live performance comfort, or the CD-60SCE’s warm mahogany character, every guitar on this list represents genuine quality in the mid-range acoustic market. For more guidance on choosing your next instrument, check our complete guide to acoustic guitars under 1000 to see what an additional 300 dollars can add.