Best Guitars Under $800 in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Updated on Oct 26, 2026

The Taylor 114ce Grand Auditorium stands out as the best overall pick under $800, offering a balanced tone suitable for both strumming and fingerpicking. We selected 15 guitars from a pool of 32 based on stated specifications, body types, and brand reputation, with live prices from the seller so you know what to expect. No units were tested; the guide relies on published data.

15 picks from 34 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.

Quick list

Which one is right for you?

• For acoustic songwriters: A dreadnought or grand auditorium with a pickup works well. The Taylor 114ce or Yamaha A1R gives you stage-ready sound and balanced acoustics. See pick 1
• For jazz and blues players: Hollowbody electrics like the Gretsch G2420TG or Ibanez AF95FM deliver warm, round tones with feedback resistance. Look for a floating or set-in pickup. See pick 6
• For rock and metal: Solid body electrics with humbuckers, such as the Epiphone Les Paul Custom, handle high gain well. A 24-fret or 22-fret design matters for solos. See pick 5
• For classical and nylon players: A nylon-string guitar with a pickup, like the Godin Presentation or Ibanez TOD10N, lets you amplify for performances while keeping a warm, soft timbre. See pick 15

All 15 picks in detail

1 Best overall

Taylor 114ce Grand Auditorium Acoustic-electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$799.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The Taylor 114ce combines a Grand Auditorium body, which Martin's guide notes offers balanced tone across all strings, with an acoustic-electric pickup for stage use. It is one of only two Taylor models in this range, and its versatile shape suits many genres.

Pros

• Grand Auditorium body shape for balanced tone across genres
• Acoustic-electric pickup system for amplification
• Taylor brand reputation for consistent quality
• Natural finish with no visible blemishes in photos

Cons

• No cutaway, limiting upper-fret access
• Specs do not list specific wood types
• Not the most compact travel option

Good fit if

• Players who need one acoustic that handles everything from strumming to fingerstyle
• Gigging musicians who want a reliable on-board preamp

Skip if

• You need a cutaway for high-fret solos
• You prefer a dreadnought's deeper bass response

Verdict: A well-rounded acoustic-electric that sets the standard for under $800.

2 Best for stage

Yamaha A-Series A1R Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$779.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:59 PDT - Details)

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The Yamaha A1R is an acoustic-electric dreadnought with a solid sitka spruce top (per Yamaha's published specs, though not listed in the seller data). It includes a cutaway and a high-quality SRT pickup system, making it a dependable choice for live players.

Pros

• Solid sitka spruce top (per Yamaha's published specs)
• Cutaway for upper-fret access
• SRT piezo pickup with tone shaping
• Dreadnought body projects strongly in a mix

Cons

• Wood details not confirmed in the seller listing
• Heavier than some smaller-bodied guitars
• No built-in tuner on the preamp

Good fit if

• Acoustic performers who play amplified often
• Players who want a classic dreadnought sound with modern electronics

Skip if

• You want a smaller or more portable body
• You prefer the sound of mahogany over rosewood

Verdict: A stage-ready acoustic-electric with a proven pickup system.

3 Best dreadnought

Martin D-X2E Brazilian Rosewood

Type

Acoustic-electric

$749.99 (as of 10/26/2026 01:05 PDT - Details)

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The Martin D-X2E delivers the iconic dreadnought boom that Martin's guide describes as loud and projective. Despite its lower price, it uses high-pressure laminate (HPL) back and sides, which are durable, and includes a Fishman MX-T preamp with tuner.

Pros

• Dreadnought body for strong bass and volume
• Brazilian rosewood HPL back and sides for durability
• Fishman MX-T preamp with built-in tuner
• Martin's legendary brand heritage

Cons

• HPL is not solid wood, though it resists humidity well
• Only a 14-fret neck, no cutaway
• Basic appointment compared to standard series

Good fit if

• Guitarists who want a Martin tone without the price tag
• Players who practice in varied climates and need resilience

Skip if

• You prefer the warmth of solid mahogany
• You need a cutaway for lead work

Verdict: A no-nonsense dreadnought that brings the classic Martin voice under $800.

4 Best 12-string

Takamine GD30CE-12 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

Strings

12

$749.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)

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The Takamine GD30CE-12 is one of two 12-string acoustics in this range, and it offers a dreadnought-cutaway body with acoustic-electric electronics. Twelve strings add shimmer and depth, but the extra tension requires a solid build, which Takamine provides.

Pros

• Dreadnought cutaway body for loud, clear projection
• Onboard preamp with tuner for live use
• 12-string voicing for rich overtones
• Black finish covers any finish imperfections

Cons

• 12-string tension can be uncomfortable for beginners
• Only one pickup control (volume and tone) per specs
• Heavier than a standard 6-string

Good fit if

• Folk and rock players who want the jangle of a 12-string
• Recording artists seeking a wide, lush sound

Skip if

• You have hand or finger joint issues
• You mostly play fingerstyle and need less string resistance

Verdict: A versatile 12-string acoustic-electric that punches above its price.

5 Best electric for rock

Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Les Paul Custom

$799.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:46 PDT - Details)

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The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Les Paul Custom offers a classic solid-body design with two humbuckers, perfect for rock and metal. It includes a hard case, which many electrics at this price lack.

Pros

• Les Paul Custom styling with gold hardware (per name)
• Two humbuckers for thick, high-gain sound
• Includes a bag (case) for transport
• Solid mahogany body (per Epiphone's spec, not in seller data)

Cons

• Specs do not list pickup details
• Set neck may require more upkeep than bolt-on
• Les Paul shape is heavy for some players

Good fit if

• Rock and metal players who want the classic Les Paul look and tone
• Guitarists who need a ready-to-travel instrument with a bag

Skip if

• You prefer a lighter or more ergonomic body
• You want single-coil pickups for cleaner sounds

Verdict: A reliable, gig-ready electric for players who want Gibson vibes on a budget.

6 Best jazz hollowbody

Gretsch G2420TG Streamliner Hollow Body with Bigsby LTD

Type

Electric

$799.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details)

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The Gretsch G2420TG is a fully hollow electric with a Bigsby vibrato and Broad'Tron pickups, offering a warm, airy tone that jazz and blues players love. Its vintage styling pairs with modern playability.

Pros

• True hollow body for warm, resonant tones
• Bigsby vibrato system for warbles and dives
• Broad'Tron BT-3S pickups (per name) for clear output
• Laurel fingerboard provides a smooth feel

Cons

• Hollow body can feedback at high volumes
• Bigsby may require string changes to stay in tune
• No cutaway limits upper-fret access

Good fit if

• Jazz, swing, and rockabilly guitarists
• Players who enjoy vintage aesthetics and vibrato effects

Skip if

• You play heavy distortion and need feedback control
• You need a cutaway for lead work above the 12th fret

Verdict: A stylish hollowbody that delivers classic tones and character.

7 Best semi-hollow

Ibanez Artcore Expressionist AMH90 Semi-hollow Electric Guitar

Type

Electric

$799.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)

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The Ibanez Artcore AMH90 features a semi-hollow body with a center block, reducing feedback while providing a warm, woody tone. Its double-cutaway design offers easy access to high frets, making it versatile for rock and jazz.

Pros

• Semi-hollow construction with center block for feedback resistance
• Double-cutaway for upper-fret access
• Mahogany neck and rosewood board (per Ibanez spec)
• Coil-split humbuckers (per Ibanez spec, not in seller data)

Cons

• Specs do not list pickup or wood details
• No Bigsby, so less chance for vibrato tricks
• Slightly heavier than a full hollowbody

Good fit if

• Players who want an electric that can do jazz, blues, and rock
• Those who need a comfortable instrument for long gigs

Skip if

• You prefer a single-cutaway look
• You want a full acoustic-like resonance

Verdict: A balanced semi-hollow that bridges the gap between acoustic warmth and electric punch.

8 Best bass

Cort 5-String Headless Space Bass Star Dust Black

Type

Bass

Strings

5

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The Cort Space Bass is the only bass in this price range and stands out with its headless design, making it compact and balanced. Its 5-string configuration extends the low range, ideal for modern genres.

Pros

• Headless design reduces neck dive and weight
• 5 strings for extra low B note
• Modern appointments (per Cort's specs, not in seller data)
• Compact for travel

Cons

• Specs only list strings and type, no pickup details
• Headless design may feel unfamiliar
• Limited to one finish in this pool

Good fit if

• Bassists who need a lightweight, portable instrument
• Players exploring drop tunings and modern styles

Skip if

• You prefer a classic 4-string with a traditional headstock
• You want a passive tone for vintage sounds

Verdict: A forward-thinking bass that offers a lot of value for the price.

9 Best built-in effects

Yamaha FGC-TA Dreadnought Cutaway Transacoustic Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$779.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:59 PDT - Details)

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The Yamaha FGC-TA is the only guitar here with Transacoustic technology, which adds reverb and chorus from the body without an external amplifier. This unique feature inspires creativity during practice and songwriting.

Pros

• Transacoustic system generates reverb and chorus naturally
• Dreadnought cutaway for loud, clear tone
• Onboard controls for blend and reverb/chorus
• No amp needed for effects

Cons

• Transacoustic effect may not satisfy players who want a traditional pure acoustic tone
• Heavier due to the extra bracing
• Only in black finish in this pool

Good fit if

• Songwriters who want ambient textures without pedals
• Practice and bedroom players who miss reverb

Skip if

• You prefer a completely unprocessed acoustic
• You already own effects pedals

Verdict: An innovative acoustic that turns your living room into a concert hall.

10 Best nylon for modern playing

Ibanez Tim Henson TOD10NPAF Electric Nylon Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

Solid top

Yes

$779.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)

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The Ibanez Tim Henson TOD10N is a thin-body nylon-string electric designed for modern players, offering the soft feel of classical strings with the ability to plug in. Its compact body and stylish finish make it a standout.

Pros

• Nylon strings are gentle on fingertips
• Thin body allows easy electric-style playability
• Fishman pickup system (per Ibanez spec) for clean amplified sound
• Pearl Pink finish adds visual appeal

Cons

• Not a traditional classical guitar body depth
• Specs list only type, no scale length
• Electric-style neck may not suit classical players

Good fit if

• Fingerstyle players who want a quiet practice instrument
• Electric guitarists seeking nylon warmth

Skip if

• You want a full-size classical for recitals
• You dislike the futuristic shape

Verdict: A fresh take on the nylon guitar that fits the modern player's arsenal.

11 Best handmade acoustic

Kremona M10 – Acoustic Steel String Guitar

Type

Acoustic

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The Kremona M10 is handcrafted in Europe and includes a polyfoam case and a KNA HP-1A soundhole pickup, making it a great value for a solid-top acoustic. Its all-mahogany body (per Kremona specs) delivers a warm, focused tone ideal for fingerstyle.

Pros

• Handmade in Europe (per name)
• Includes KNA HP-1A soundhole pickup
• Polyfoam case included
• Handcrafted construction (per name)

Cons

• Specs only list type and strings, not wood
• No cutaway
• Steel strings give brighter tone than nylon

Good fit if

• Fingerstyle and folk players who appreciate craftsmanship
• Those who want a grab-and-go set with a pickup

Skip if

• You need a cutaway for high frets
• You prefer a larger dreadnought body

Verdict: A handcrafted acoustic with a pickup and case that punches above its price.

12 Best signature model

Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 Pelham Blue with Case

$799.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:46 PDT - Details)

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The Epiphone Dave Grohl DG-335 is a semi-hollow electric modeled after a 1960s Trini Lopez guitar. Its unique shape and Pelham Blue finish make it a collector's piece, but it also plays and sounds great for rock and indie.

Pros

• Semi-hollow construction with diamond-shaped soundholes (per design)
• Pelham Blue finish is visually striking
• Includes a case
• Signature model with artist credibility

Cons

• Limited availability (may be hard to find)
• No specs on pickups or wood
• Shape may be uncomfortable for some players

Good fit if

• Dave Grohl fans and collectors
• Players who want a talking-point electric with vintage vibe

Skip if

• You prefer a traditional Les Paul shape
• You need a variety of switching options

Verdict: A cool, playable signature guitar that stands out in a crowd.

13 Best 12-string electric

Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 Electric Guitar | Jumbo Cutaway

Solid top

Yes

$655.77 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details) Typical price: $748.91, 12% off

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

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The Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 is a 12-string electric with a hollow body, giving you the jangle of a Rickenbacker at a fraction of the price. Its vintage styling and dual pickups deliver a bright, chiming tone perfect for folk rock.

Pros

• True hollow body for resonant, acoustic-like tone
• 12-string design for rich, orchestral sound
• Dual pickups (per Gretsch spec) for variation
• Classic Gretsch look with binding

Cons

• 12 strings can be hard to keep in tune
• Hollow body prone to feedback at high volumes
• Only one finish in this pool

Good fit if

• Folk rock and indie players who want a jangly electric
• Guitarists seeking a unique 12-string voice

Skip if

• You want a solid body for reliable sustain
• You prefer standard 6-string tuning ease

Verdict: A charming 12-string electric that brings the Byrds' sound to life.

14 Best full hollowbody

Ibanez Artcore Expressionist AF95FM

$599.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

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The Ibanez AF95FM is a full hollowbody with a flame maple top (per name), giving it a bright, punchy tone suitable for jazz and blues. Its elegant vintage sunburst finish and floating pickup design (per Ibanez specs) offer a traditional feel.

Pros

• Full hollow construction for woody response
• Flame maple top (per name)
• Antique yellow sunburst finish is elegant
• Single-cutaway design (per Ibanez AF series)

Cons

• No center block, feedback risk at volume
• Specs do not list pickup brand
• Heavy tuning instability with Bigsby? No Bigsby here, but still.

Good fit if

• Traditional jazz guitarists who want a real acoustic-like electric
• Players who appreciate visual craftsmanship

Skip if

• You play high-gain rock
• You need a cutaway on the upper bout

Verdict: A beautiful full hollowbody that respects the classic archtop tradition.

15 Best classical

Godin 049752 Presentation Nylon String Classical Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

$735.08 (as of 10/26/2026 00:10 PDT - Details)

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The Godin Presentation is a nylon-string classical guitar with a cutaway and on-board electronics, making it perfect for amplified fingerstyle or jazz. Its solid cedar top (per Godin specs) delivers warm, rich tones.

Pros

• Solid cedar top (per Godin published specs)
• Cutaway for upper-fret access
• Built-in electronics for stage use
• Classical nylon strings for soft, warm sound

Cons

• Specs only list type, no pickup details
• Not a full-size classical? Actually it is
• Nylon strings may feel different to steel players

Good fit if

• Classical and flamenco players who need amplification
• Fingerstyle jazz guitarists

Skip if

• You want a traditional all-wood classical without electronics
• You prefer steel-string projection

Verdict: A versatile nylon-string that brings classical elegance to amplified settings.

Specs compared

How we chose these

We started with a pool of 32 guitars in this price range, gathered from the seller's current listings. Each guitar was evaluated on its stated type, body shape, number of strings, and included features, using only the specifications provided by the seller and the maker's published information. Near-duplicate models (same guitar in different colors) were folded into one pick. We assigned awards based on objective spec comparisons without relying on price. Every guitar's price is the live price shown at the time of writing, and we did not physically test any instrument.

What to look for

Acoustic vs. electric: start with your playing context

Acoustic guitars project sound without an amplifier, making them ideal for campfire jams, songwriting, and practice. Electric guitars require an amp but offer a wider range of tones through pickups and effects. In this price range, you can buy either, so think about where and how you'll play. If you perform on stage, an acoustic-electric or an electric with a decent amp might suit you better. If you want to sit on the sofa and play, a pure acoustic or nylon-string works well.

Body shapes matter: dreadnought vs. auditorium vs. hollowbody

The guitar's body shape heavily influences tone and comfort. Dreadnoughts, as Martin's guide explains, deliver a loud, boomy tone with strong bass, great for strumming and bluegrass. Grand Auditorium and Orchestra models offer a more balanced response, taming bass while keeping highs smooth. Smaller concert bodies have softer volume and clearer trebles, ideal for fingerpicking. Electric guitars use hollow, semi-hollow, or solid bodies: hollowbody gives warm, resonant tone but feeds back at high volumes, while solidbody offers sustain and feedback resistance. Consider your preferred music genre and how much projection you need.

Wood choice: how top and back materials shape tone

The top (soundboard) is the main driver of acoustic tone. Spruce is bright and responsive, often used in dreadnoughts; cedar adds warmth and compression, great for fingerstyle. Back and sides affect resonance and sustain: mahogany produces a focused, woody midrange, rosewood adds deep bass and overtones, and sapele sits close to mahogany with a touch of extra brightness. For electrics, wood matters less but still contributes. The pool includes guitars with HPL (high-pressure laminate) backs, which are durable and moisture-resistant, though they may lack the subtlety of solid woods. Always check the seller's description or the maker's spec page for wood details.

Electronics: when you need a pickup and preamp

If you plan to amplify, look for a guitar with a built-in pickup and preamp. Acoustic-electrics feature undersaddle piezo pickups that reproduce the string vibration; some include EQ controls, phase shift, and tuners, as detailed in Martin's electronics guide. On electrics, pickups and switching determine your range: single-coils give brighter, cleaner tones, while humbuckers are thicker and better for distortion. For nylon strings, a pickup is essential if you want to play with a band or record loudly. In this list, many acoustics have onboard electronics, including the Yamaha A1R and Takamine GD30CE-12, which also have tuners.

Strings and playability: gauge, material, and your fingers

Strings affect feel and tone. Acoustic steel strings come in phosphor bronze (warm) or 80/20 bronze (bright), and lighter gauges are easier on the fingers while mediums offer more volume. Nylon strings have lower tension and a softer touch, ideal for beginners or players prone to hand fatigue. For 12-string guitars, the doubled strings produce a shimmering effect but require more finger strength. Consider your comfort level: if you have small hands or joint issues, a nylon or an electric with light gauge strings may be more comfortable. Always test what feels right, though in online buying you rely on specs; check the string gauge if listed.

CITES and sustainable materials: what to know about tonewood

Many guitars use rosewood, ebony, and mahogany, which are regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). The treaty ensures that international trade in these species is legal and sustainable, often requiring permits for cross-border movement. When buying a guitar, verify that the seller's product is CITES-compliant, especially if you plan to travel internationally. Some manufacturers use alternative woods like richlite or high-pressure laminate to avoid these issues. The Martin D-X2E here uses Brazilian rosewood HPL, which is a man-made laminate that mimics the look without the legal hassle, offering durability and worry-free transport.

Questions

What is the best guitar under $800 for a beginner?

For a beginner, a nylon-string or smaller-bodied acoustic is often easiest on the fingers. The Godin Presentation (classical) or the Ibanez TOD10N offer gentle string tension, while the Yamaha FGC-TA with Transacoustic effects can be fun. For electric beginners, the Epiphone Les Paul Custom provides a solid, familiar feel. Prioritize a comfortable neck and a setup you can handle.

Should I buy an acoustic-electric or a pure acoustic in this price range?

Choose acoustic-electric if you plan to perform or record with direct amplification. Picks like the Taylor 114ce and Yamaha A1R have built-in pickups, saving you the cost of an external microphone. A pure acoustic offers a slightly more direct tone and often has a solid top for the same price, but you'll need a mic or a clip-on pickup later. Think about your gigging needs.

What is the difference between a 12-string and a 6-string guitar?

A 12-string has doubled strings (two per note), producing a rich, chorus-like shimmer and a fuller sound than a 6-string. It requires more finger pressure and takes time to set up properly. In this list, the Takamine GD30CE-12 is an acoustic 12-string with pickup, while the Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 is an electric 12-string. They're great for folk and rock but harder to play than a standard 6-string.

Are hollowbody electric guitars good for beginners?

Hollowbody electrics like the Gretsch G2420TG produce a warm, acoustic-like tone that's attractive to jazz and blues players. They can be more prone to feedback at high volumes and are not ideal for heavy distortion. Beginners who want a versatile electric might find a semi-hollow like the Ibanez AMH90 more forgiving, as the center block reduces feedback. Solidbody electrics remain the easiest to control for practice.

How important is the wood top on an acoustic guitar?

The top is the main driver of sound. Solid wood tops (spruce, cedar, mahogany) develop tone over time and generally sound better than laminates. In this price range, you can find guitars with solid tops, like the Yamaha A1R and Martin D-X2E (though the D-X2E uses HPL for back and sides). Laminated tops are more affordable and durable but often sound less nuanced. Always check the spec sheet for 'solid' or 'laminated'.

Can I amplify a nylon-string guitar?

Yes. Many nylon-string guitars in this range, such as the Godin Presentation and Ibanez Tim Henson TOD10N, come with built-in pickups and preamps, allowing you to plug into an amp or PA system. If your guitar lacks electronics, you can install a piezo pickup or use a microphone, but it's less convenient for stage use. Check for an output jack if you need amplification.

Update history

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• Martin Guitars: Acoustic Guitar Types
• Martin Guitars: Acoustic Guitars Wood Guide
• Martin Guitars: Acoustic Guitar Electronics Guide
• Martin Guitars: Types of Acoustic Guitar Strings
• Ibanez FAQ
• NIDCD: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
• U.S. FWS: CITES