A first instrument is often bought in a hurry, online or from a catalog, and it is put away when the strings hurt or the tuning drifts. The beginner blames their own talent, when the problem was an instrument that was hard to play from the first day.
Choosing a size that fits, having the instrument set up properly and checking a used one carefully are the three things that make the first months enjoyable enough to continue.
Meet the editor
Eli Navarro, Editor. Eli spent ten years as a guitar technician and sales lead at a Nashville music shop. He saw that the instruments that got played were the ones that were easy to hold and in tune, and that is the standard this site uses.
Who this is for
Adults across the United States starting guitar, ukulele or keyboard, and gift buyers looking for an instrument that will actually be played.
Everything here lives in one category, Musical Instruments: beginner guitars and ukuleles, digital keyboards, setup and action, used instrument checks and gifts with accessories and lessons.
Our approach
- We start from the hands. Hand size, finger reach and playing position decide which instrument is comfortable enough to practice.
- We explain setup in plain terms. Action, intonation and fret ends affect playability, and we say what to ask a technician to check.
- We say when a cheaper instrument is enough. A well-set-up budget instrument often plays better than an expensive one left out of tune.
- We name the trade-off. Steel strings are bright and harder on the fingers; nylon is softer and warmer.
- We update rather than repost. Models change, and the article is revised when a range is discontinued.
What you will not find here
Hearing and physical strain. We do not give medical or hearing advice. Protect your hearing and speak to a physician about pain.
Appraisal and resale value. We do not estimate the value of any used instrument. Ask a qualified appraiser.
Repair and warranty disputes. We explain common terms. We do not interpret your agreement or assess a repair.
Where the money comes from
Nobody pays to be featured here. Income comes from advertising that outside networks place automatically and from some affiliate links, which may earn us a commission when you buy, at no cost to you. Neither shapes what we write: a good share of our advice is to buy a well-set-up beginner instrument and a few lessons rather than a premium model, which earns us the least. Our Editorial Policy and Disclaimer spell it out.
If we get something wrong
Models, prices and set-up options change, and we occasionally miss a revision. If you spot an error, tell us through the contact form and, if you can, include a source. Fixes are made on the page itself with a dated note, as described in our Editorial Policy.
Say hello
Questions, disagreements and topic suggestions are welcome through our Contact page. We cannot hear or inspect an instrument for you, but we can usually tell you which two checks to make at the shop.